The Grade 8 Transit Quest provides free Peterborough Transit passes to all Grade 8 students within the City of Peterborough for the duration of March Break, from March 13 to 22, 2020. Active School Travel PTBO and the Grade 8 Transit Quest seek to shift perspectives of adolescent freedom away from car ownership and towards transit and active forms of transportation. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
With March Break less than a month away, adolescents and parents are likely thinking two rather different things. Adolescents may be excited about a week of fun and freedom with friends. Meanwhile, parents and guardians may be wondering how to juggle work with adolescents who crave independence but depend increasingly upon a part-time chauffeur in order to enjoy that independence.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Jaime Akiyama, GreenUP’s Transportation and Urban Design Program Coordinator.
Enter the Grade 8 Transit Quest program. This program is sponsored by the City of Peterborough and coordinated by Active School Travel Peterborough (AST PTBO for short), formerly known as Active & Safe Routes to School Peterborough. The Grade 8 Transit Quest provides free Peterborough Transit passes to all Grade 8 students within the City of Peterborough for the duration of March Break 2020 (from Friday, March 13th to Sunday, March 22nd).
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In addition to the free transit passes, many local destinations get involved with the Grade 8 Transit Quest by providing free or discounted admission to Grade 8 students who take the bus during March Break.
Whether you are a parent who needs to motivate your kid, or a kid who needs to make the case to your parents, here is your one-stop resource on the four key benefits of the Grade 8 Transit Quest.
Seize the moment
GreenUP’s Jaime Akiyama introduces a class of Grade 3 students to public transit through the On the Bus program, one of the many programs offered through Active School Travel PTBO. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
The Grade 8 Transit Quest increases youth familiarity with the Peterborough Transit system at a time in their lives when they are beginning to appreciate the ability to travel more independently.
This increase in independent mobility is more than just a gift for parents who would otherwise be chauffeurs. It also allows youth to better access activities, employment, and other opportunities.
Studies show that adolescence is a particularly influential period to introduce public transit as a way to be independent. Encouraging youth to use public transit increases the likelihood that they will use public transit in the future and be less reliant on cars as adults.
A 2018 study of youth transit users in Kingston, Ontario, suggests public transit provides a meaningful alternative mode of transportation for youth, and influences behavioural change for a more sustainable future.
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Take climate action
The environmental benefits of pubic transit include reduced air pollution and traffic congestion from fewer vehicles on the road. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Public transportation directly benefits youth and their community. The environmental benefits include reduced air pollution and traffic congestion from fewer vehicles on the road.
Studies show transportation currently represents 23 per cent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Increased use of alternative transportation (including efficient public transit) is necessary to reduce emissions by decreasing the number of cars on the road.
Develop sustainable budget priorities
At one tenth the cost of car ownership, public transit is a compelling and healthy option for today’s youth to develop financial independence. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Even if a young person were legally able to drive a vehicle, the expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle is prohibitive for many people. Youth may not consider that the initial cost of the vehicle itself is only the beginning. Insurance, registration, maintenance, gas, and parking expenses amount to substantial ongoing costs.
Statistics Canada reports that in 2017, Ontario households spend on average one fifth of their income on private transportation — that’s more than we spend on food.
Buying a car should no longer be perceived as an adolescent right of passage, nor a symbol of independence. For many individuals and families, owning a car can be financially and environmentally unsustainable.
In 2017 Global News compared the expenses associated with vehicle ownership to adult public transit costs from the Canadian Urban Transit Association. They found that riding public transit is at least 10 times cheaper than owning a car.
Create safe and healthy habits
Introducing children and youth to public transit is a way to encourage a healthier lifestyle. Studies show that using public transit contributes to approximately a third of a child’s recommended daily physical activity. After all, transit trips often begin and end with a walk to or from a bus stop. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Public transit is a safe mode of travel that encourages positive habits associated with healthier lifestyles.
Studies show that using public transit contributes to approximately a third of a child’s recommended daily physical activity. After all, transit trips often begin and end with a walk to or from a bus stop.
In 2017 the American Heart Association found public transit users are 44 per cent less likely to be overweight, 27 per cent less likely to have high blood pressure, and 34 per cent less likely to have diabetes compared to people who drive.
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Getting young people on public transit this March Break
This March Break, take a break from the car. The AST PTBO Grade 8 Transit Quest program builds competences and knowledge that helps foster the independent mobility that youth crave.
Grade 8 Transit Quest passes, program information, and educational material will be delivered to schools the week before March Break. AST PTBO thanks school administrators and Grade 8 teachers for distributing the passes before the students leave for March Break.
If you have younger kids in your life, Peterborough Transit also offers a day pass that is a great option for family travel. For $8, up to two adults and four children can ride the bus all day. An efficient and sustainable transportation option, the day pass gives younger children a foundational experience with public transit.
Day passes can be purchased at Peterborough Transit sales outlets, the Transit Terminal on Simcoe Street, and at Lansdowne Place Mall.
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About Active School Travel Peterborough
Active School Travel Peterborough (AST PTBO) promotes the use of active and sustainable transportation for the daily trip to school. AST PTBO works with local schools to implement programs that encourage students to walk, roll, or bus to school.
AST PTBO recognizes that public transit is also an important active and sustainable mobility choice, with numerous benefits for youth. Our various programs increase the knowledge and comfort levels of young transit riders, making public transportation both normal and accessible
Using public transit may be a new experience for youth. AST PTBO helps students prepare. AST PTBO transit programs, like On The Bus and School Trip By Transit, introduce young students to transit experiences, often for the first time, and help build familiarity with the transit system.
Winston Duke and Mark Wahlberg team up to take down criminals in Boston in the action-comedy "Spenser Confidential", premiering on Netflix on Friday, March 6th. (Photo: Netflix)
Every month, kawarthaNOW is the only local media source to bring you a list of what’s coming to Netflix Canada.
In the action-comedy Spenser Confidential, when two Boston police officers are murdered, ex-cop Spenser (Mark Wahlberg) teams up with his no-nonsense roommate Hawk (Winston Duke) to take down criminals. The Netflix film premieres on Friday, March 6th.
Other Netflix films include Guilty and I am Jonas (Mar. 6), Go Karts and Lost Girls (Mar. 13), The Platform and Ultras (Mar. 20), Curtiz (Mar. 25), and The Decline and Uncorked (Mar. 27).
New Netflix original series include: The English Game (no release date specified); The Circle Brazil (Mar. 11); Hospital Playlist (Mar. 12); 100 Humans, Bloodride, The Valhalla Murders, and Women of the Night (all on Mar. 13); Feel Good (Mar. 19); Dare Me and Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walke (Mar. 20); Signs (Mar. 25); and Unorthodox (Mar. 26).
VIDEO: Spenser Confidential Trailer
Returning Netflix original series include season four of Riverdale (weekly episodes beginning Mar. 4), season three of The Protector and season two of Ugly Delicious (Mar. 6), season two of Kingdom (Mar. 13), season four of Greenhouse Academy (Mar. 20), season three of Black Lightning (Mar. 26), and season three of Ozark (Mar. 27).
Theatrically released films include Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, High Noon, Moneyball, October Sky, Pitch Perfect 3, Shaun of the Dead, and What a Girl Wants (all on Mar. 1), Ready Player One (Mar. 3), Coal Miner’s Daughter and National Lampoon’s Animal House (Mar. 4), and Pineapple Express and Sense and Sensibility (Mar. 31).
VIDEO: New to Netflix Canada in March
Here’s the complete list of everything coming to Netflix Canada in March, along with what’s leaving.
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Coming in March (no release date specified)
Arashi’s Diary – Voyage (new episodes, Netflix documentary) – Why did Japan’s top boy band Arashi decide to go on hiatus at the height of their popularity? Singers. Dancers. Legends. Japan’s No. 1 group has captured fans’ hearts for 20 years. Now they embark on a new journey. The episodes will be updated on a monthly basis: Episode 1&2 is now on streaming.
The English Game (Netflix original) – In 1870s England, two footballers on opposite sides of a class divide forge a bond that helps bring the upper-class gentleman’s sport to the masses.
Ladies Up (Netflix comedy special) – Rising India-based comics Prashasti Singh, Kaneez Surka, Supriya Joshi and Niveditha Prakasam bring no-holds-barred humor to this stand-up series.
Sunday, March 1
Go! Go! Cory Carson: Season 2 (Netflix family) – Driveway dance parties, birthday treasure hunts — and going to the doctor to fix a flat tire. Whatever life brings, Cory’s gassed up and ready to go!
Beyond the Lights
Constantine
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
High Noon
His Dark Materials: The Golden Compass
Isle of Dogs
Land of the Dead
Moneyball
October Sky
Phantom Thread
Pitch Perfect 3
RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked!: S11
RuPaul’s Drag Race: S11
Shaun of the Dead
Thank You for Your Service
The Producers
Vanity Fair
What a Girl Wants
Wimbledon
Tuesday, March 3
Ready Player One
Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis (Netflix comedy special) – Now halfway through her twenties, Taylor Tomlinson is ready to leave her mistakes behind her. Following her Netflix debut on The Comedy Lineup Part 1 (2018), Taylor divulges the lessons she’s learned in her first hour-long comedy special, Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis. Taylor talks about working on yourself, realistic relationship goals, and why your twenties are not actually “the best years of your life.”
Wednesday, March 4
Coal Miner’s Daughter
Drag Me to Hell
Fear
National Lampoon’s Animal House
Riverdale: Season 4 (weekly episodes) (Netflix original) – Daring adventure meets chilling darkness as Riverdale explores a new side of grief and the gang prepares for the ultimate test: senior year.
Thursday, March 5
Castlevania: Season 3 (Netflix anime) – Belmont and Sypha settle into a village with sinister secrets, Alucard mentors a pair of admirers, and Isaac embarks on a quest to locate Hector.
Mighty Little Bheem: Festival of Colors (Netflix family) – From surprising stage performances to spraying colors with friends, join baby Bheem for all his Holi hijinks during the special spring festival.
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Friday, March 6
Guilty (Netflix film) – When a college heartthrob is accused of rape by a less popular student, his girlfriend navigates various versions of the story in search of the truth.
I am Jonas (Netflix film) – A turbulent past haunts Jonas, who recalls his teenage love affair with the impulsive, twisted and yet irresistible Nathan.
Paradise PD: Part 2 (Netflix original) – As the diabolical Kingpin tightens his grip on Paradise, the squad contends with bitter feuds, dirty schemes, kinky fetishes and a nuclear threat.
The Protector: Season 3 (Netflix original) – As chaos descends on Istanbul, Hakan faces a formidable Immortal who seeks to possess the key to destroying the city.
Spenser Confidential (Netflix film) – Just out of prison and investigating a twisted murder, Spenser is sucked back into Boston’s underbelly. Based on the popular books; Mark Wahlberg stars.
Twin Murders: The Silence of the White City (Netflix film) – A detective inspector is pushed to the edge while he hunts the ritualistic murderer that has been terrorizing a city in Spain’s Basque Country for two decades.
Ugly Delicious: Season 2 (Netflix documentary) – Ugly Delicious returns for a second season from James Beard award-winning Chef David Chang and Academy Award-Winner Morgan Neville. The second season of the hit series continues to challenge both our taste buds and our minds as Chef Chang travels the world with writers and chefs, activists and artists, who use food as a vehicle to break down cultural barriers, tackle misconceptions and uncover shared experiences. And this season ventures into more of the unknown, including the world of parenting as Chang gears up to become a first time father. Special guests include Nick Kroll, Aziz Ansari, Padma Lakshmi, food writers Helen Rosner and Chris Ying, Danny McBride, Bill Simmons, and Dave Choe among others.
Sunday, March 8
Sitara: Let Girls Dream (Netflix film) – An animated short film that follows the story of Pari, a 14-year-old girl with dreams of becoming a pilot, while growing up in a society that doesn’t allow her to dream.
Tuesday, March 10
Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal (Netflix family) – You drive the action in this interactive adventure, helping Carmen save Ivy and Zack when V.I.L.E. captures them during a heist in Shanghai.
Marc Maron: End Times Fun (Netflix comedy special)
Wednesday, March 11
The Circle Brazil (Netflix original) – Be yourself — or someone else? The players must choose while chasing a cash prize when this lighthearted, strategic competition show comes to Brazil.
Dirty Money: Season 2 (Netflix documentary) – The critically acclaimed investigative series from Academy Award-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney’s Jigsaw Productions returns for a second season. Dirty Money provides an up-close-and-personal view into untold stories of scandal, financial malfeasance and corruption in the world of business. This season offers a look inside Jared Kushner’s real estate empire, the Wells Fargo banking scandal, and Malaysia’s 1MDB corruption case.
On My Block: Season 3 (Netflix original) – They thought life was about to return to what passes for normal in Freeridge, but the stakes just got even higher. On My Block, co-created by Lauren Iungerich (Awkward) and Eddie Gonzalez & Jeremy Haft (All Eyez On Me), is a coming-of0age comedy about four bright and street-savvy friends navigating their way through the triumph, pain and the newness of high-school set in the rough inner city.
Riverdale: Season 4 (weekly episodes) (Netflix original)
Summer Night
Thursday, March 12
Hospital Playlist (Netflix original) – Five doctors, whose friendship goes back to their days in med school, band together at one hospital as colleagues in the VIP wing.
Friday, March 13
100 Humans (Netflix original) – One hundred diverse volunteers participate in experiments that tackle questions about age, gender, happiness and other aspects of being human.
BEASTARS (Netflix anime) – In a world where beasts of all kinds coexist, a gentle wolf awakens to his own predatory urges as his school deals with a murder within its midst.
Bloodride (Netflix original) – A Norwegian anthology series that blends horror with dark Scandinavian humor, setting each distinct story in its own realistic yet weird universe.
Elite: Season 3 (Netflix original) – When another classmate is killed, a new investigation ensues. The students look toward their future, while the consequences of the past haunt them.
Go Karts (Netflix film) – After moving to a new town with his mom, a teen discovers the high-speed sport of go-kart racing, learning from a former driver with a secret past.
Kingdom: Season 2 (Netflix original) – The zombie period drama set in Korea’s Joseon era returns for Season 2.
Lost Girls (Netflix film) – A mother’s quest to find her missing daughter uncovers a wave of unsolved murders in this drama based on a true story. Amy Ryan and Gabriel Byrne star.
Restaurants on the Edge: Season 1
The Valhalla Murders (Netflix original) – An ambitious Icelandic detective teams up with a cop from Norway to investigate a series of murders that may be connected to a heinous trauma.
Women of the Night (Netflix original) – Haunted by a shadowy past, the wife of a rising star in Amsterdam’s mayoral office finds herself drawn into the city’s underworld of sex and drugs.
Monday, March 16
The Boss Baby: Back in Business: Season 3 (Netflix family) – After losing his job at Baby Corp, Boss Baby goes freelance and turns his playgroup into a makeshift field team. Cue the critical mission!
Tuesday, March 17
Bert Kreischer: Hey Big Boy (Netflix comedy special) – Comedian Bert Kreischer is back, and shirtless once again, in his second Netflix 0riginal comedy special. Bert candidly shares hilarious stories about his daughter’s period party, a pushy arms dealer, and an inside joke with a Starbucks barista.
Shaun the Sheep: Adventures from Mossy Bottom
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Wednesday, March 18
Riverdale: Season 4 (weekly episodes) (Netflix original)
Thursday, March 19
Altered Carbon: Resleeved (Netflix anime) – Dai Sato, the creative mind behind “Cowboy Bebop”, further explores and expands upon the “Altered Carbon” universe in this anime adaptation.
Feel Good (Netflix original) – Mae Martin stars as herself, a Canadian comedian living in London while navigating a new relationship and dealing with sobriety.
Friday, March 20
A Life of Speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio Story (Netflix documentary) – Juan Manuel Fangio was the Formula One king, winning five world championships in the early 1950s — before protective gear or safety features were used.
Archibald’s Next Big Thing: Season 2 (Netflix family) – From outdoor adventures to shopping extravaganzas, Archibald can’t wait to experience everything this great, big world has to offer.
Buddi (Netflix family) – Following the day-to-day adventures of five best “Buddis,” this colorful and entertaining series is targeted at children under 4.
Dare Me (Netflix original) – Mystery, drama and danger hit a high school cheerleading squad ruled by brash Beth and her loyal BFF Addy when a new coach arrives in their small town.
Dino Girl Gauko: Season 2 (Netflix family) – Naoko and her friends have more strange adventures with aliens, robots and dinosaur girl Gauko. Their ordinary town has its share of oddities!
Greenhouse Academy: Season 4 (Netflix family) – The teen drama based on the award-winning Israeli series “Ha-Hamama” returns for Season 4.
The Letter for the King (Netflix family) – A young boy holds the fate of the kingdom in his hands when he embarks on a quest to deliver a secret message in this sweeping fantasy series.
Maska (Netflix film) – A young man sets out to become a movie star, until a summer romance shows him the fine line between dreams and delusions. Starring Manisha Koirala.
The Platform (Netflix film) – In a prison where inmates on high floors eat better than those below, who get the scant scraps, one man tries to effect change so everyone gets enough.
Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker (Netflix original) – This limited series is inspired by the incredible true story of Madam C.J. Walker, who was the first African American female self-made millionaire.
Ultras (Netflix film) – A story of intergenerational friendship and coming of age, set in the world of ultras culture during the last five weeks of a soccer championship.
Tiger King (Netflix documentary) – A rivalry between big cat eccentrics takes a dark turn when Joe Exotic, a controversial animal park boss, is caught in a murder-for-hire plot in this limited docuseries where the only thing more dangerous than a big cat is its owner.
Monday, March 23
Sol Levante (Netflix anime) – An experimental project between Netflix and Production I.G, one of the leading anime production companies in Japan, to produce the world’s first 4K HDR native hand-drawn anime short.
Tuesday, March 24
Life of the Party
Wednesday, March 25
Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (Netflix documentary) – In the early 1970s, teenagers with disabilities faced a future shaped by isolation, discrimination and institutionalization. Camp Jened, a ramshackle camp “for the handicapped” in the Catskills, exploded those confines. Jened was their freewheeling utopia, a place with summertime sports, smoking and makeout sessions awaiting everyone, and campers felt fulfilled as human beings. Their bonds endured as they migrated West to Berkeley, California — a promised land for a growing and diverse disability community — where friends from Camp Jened realized that disruption and unity might secure life-changing accessibility for millions.
Curtiz (Netflix film) – Driven and arrogant, film director Michael Curtiz deals with studio politics and family drama during the troubled production of “Casablanca” in 1942.
The Occupant (Hogar) (Netflix film) – An unemployed executive is forced to sell his apartment. When he discovers that he still has the keys, he becomes obsessed with the family that lives there and will do anything to go back to the life he had before.
Riverdale: Season 4 (weekly episodes) (Netflix original)
Signs (Netflix original) – When a young woman’s murder shows similarities to a decade-old cold case, a new police commander must break the silence permeating an Owl Mountain town.
YooHoo to the Rescue: Season 3 (Netflix family) – It’s time to take flight again! Join YooHoo and his adorable crew as they travel the world to help animal friends, one marvellous mission at a time.
Thursday, March 26
7SEEDS: Part 2 (Netflix anime) – The world they knew is long gone. Their new environment is dangerous, but not as deadly as their fellow humans. Based on the award-winning manga by Yumi Tamura, “7SEEDS” returns for Part 2.
Black Lightning: Season 3 (Netflix original) – Cress Williams (“Prison Break”) brings DC’s first major African American superhero to life in this multilayered series, now returning for Season 3.
Unorthodox (Netflix original) – A young woman flees to Berlin from an arranged marriage in Brooklyn. Then her past catches up to her.
Friday, March 27
Car Masters: Rust to Riches: Season 2 (Netflix original) – Classic cars get massive makeovers courtesy of Gotham Garage, a skilled California crew dedicated to upgrading and trading sweet vintage vehicles.
The Decline (Netflix film) – As a way to prepare for disasters, family man Antoine attends a training program on survivalism given by Alain, at his self-sufficient retreat. Planning for a natural, economical or social breakdown, the group goes through drills meant to prepare them for apocalypses of all types. But the catastrophe waiting for them is nothing like what they anticipated.
Dragons: Rescue Riders: Hunt for the Golden Dragon (Netflix family) – It’s the treasure hunt of a lifetime for the Rescue Riders, who must race to find a precious golden dragon egg and keep it safe from evil pirates.
Il processo (Netflix original) – The murder of a teen girl impacts a public prosecutor linked to the victim, a lawyer seeking a career-making case and a suspect who says she’s innocent.
Ladies Up (Netflix comedy special) – Rising India-based comics Prashasti Singh, Kaneez Surka, Supriya Joshi and Niveditha Prakasam bring no-holds-barred humor to this stand-up series.
Mark of the Devil (Netflix film) – When two sisters open an ancient book that ushers evil into their midst, a possessed priest wrestling with his own demons becomes their only salvation.
Ozark: Season 3 (Netflix original) – The Emmy-winning series about a suburban family laundering millions in the Missouri Ozarks returns for Season 3.
There’s Something in the Water
True: Wuzzle Wegg Day (Netflix family) – When searching for the perfect Wuzzle Wegg, Bartleby thinks he sees a monster. Will the Rainbow King have to cancel Wuzzle Wegg Day — or will True come to the rescue?
Uncorked (Netflix film) – A young man faces his father’s disapproval when he pursues his dream of becoming a master sommelier instead of joining the family’s barbecue business.
A Lindsay resident has lost $19,000 in a lottery scam.
On Tuesday (February 18), Kawartha Lakes police received a report from a local resident who had been defrauded of a large sum of money.
In late 2019, the victim received a telephone call and was advised they had won $100,000. Over the following weeks, the company who claimed to hold the victim’s winnings demanded money to cover lottery taxes, fees for sending the funds to Canada, and other expenses.
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The victim was also tricked into sharing personal information, including their social insurance and bank account numbers. After transferring over $19,000 to the fraudulent lottery company, the victim consulted with their bank and was informed they were likely the victim of a fraud.
In Cobourg, a local resident was recently defrauded of a large sum of money in a different scam. In that incident, the victim lost $78,000 after a scammer claiming to be from Service Canada convinced the victim to deposit cash in area bitcoin machines to keep their money “safe” after an alleged identify theft.
Police remind residents to be skeptical of any unsolicited communication received by mail, telephone, or online regarding lottery winnings, inheritance from a long lost relative, or other offer that seem too good to be true. Fraudsters are often smooth talking and can overwhelm a person with information, enticing offers, or even threats and intimidation tactics.
Fraudsters frequently target seniors or vulnerable adults in the community. Speak with friends and loved ones who are at risk of falling victim to these types of frauds and encourage them to make a report to their local police service if they have received suspicious communication from potential fraudsters.
If you have been victimized by fraud, do not be embarrassed and contact your local police service.
18-year-old Alex Tobin of Omemee was shot and killed on February 18, 2020. Two Bethany men, 23-year-old Aaron Simmonds and 18-year-old Zachary Simmonds, have been charged with second-degree murder. (Photo via gofundme.com)
Hours after an unrelated incident on Tuesday (February 18) resulted in a hold and secure at two public schools in Omemee, an 18-year-old man was shot and killed at an apartment building in the town’s downtown area.
Shortly after 1 p.m., members of the City of Kawartha Lakes Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and emergency crews responded to assist a person suffering a gunshot wound at 36 King Street East in Omemee, a small apartment building located across from Omemee Foodland.
Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Services transported the victim to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Police have identified the victim as 18-year-old Alexander Tobin of Omemee.
The shooting death of 18-year-old Alex Tobin occurred on the afternoon of February 18, 2020 at this apartment building at 36 King Street East in Omemee. (Photo: Craig Foster)
After witnesses provided descriptions of the suspects in the shooting, police quickly located and arrested them.
Update – Charges withdrawn
The second-degree murder charges against Aaron Simmonds and Zachary Simmonds were withdrawn on April 9, 2020. Police are still actively investigating this crime.
On Wednesday (February 19), City of Kawartha Lakes OPP identified the alleged shooters as 23-year-old Aaron Simmonds and 18-year-old Zachary Simmonds, both of Bethany.
They have been charged with second-degree murder. The accused men appeared at the Ontario Court of Justice in Lindsay on Wednesday and have been remanded until Thursday, February 27th.
After the Tuesday afternoon shooting, police assured the community there is no connection between the incident and an earlier incident on Tuesday morning that resulted in Scott Young Public School and Lady Eaton Public School being placed in a hold and secure situation. In that situation, students had reported hearing gunshots in the area. Kawartha Lakes OPP investigated that report, found it to be unsubstantiated, and the hold and secure was lifted.
Following the afternoon shooting incident, the two schools were again placed in a hold and secure as a precaution while police investigated the shooting. The second hold and secure was lifted around 2:50 p.m.
The homicide investigation remains ongoing under the direction of the OPP’s Criminal Investigation Branch. Further information will be released as it becomes available.
Investigators are requesting persons who may have witnessed this incident to contact Kawartha Lakes OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at kh.crimestoppersweb.com.
Following Tobin’s death, Rebecca Watson launched a GoFundMe campaign to help his family with the cost of his funeral and other expenses.
On the campaign page at gofundme.com/f/loss-of-a-young-man-alex-tobin, she writes “Today is a very sad day Amy Rogers and her two sons lost their beloved Alex Tobin at the age of 18. This family is broken.”
As of Wednesday (February 19) at 1 p.m., $2,075 has been raised of the campaign’s $5,000 goal.
Scott Young Public School and Lady Eaton Public School in Omemee were briefly placed into a ‘hold and secure’ on Tuesday morning (February 18).
UPDATE Tue Feb 18 2:54pm
Police placed Scott Young Public School and Lady Eaton Elementary School in a hold and secure for a second time around 1:40 p.m. as a precaution due to an incident in the community. The second hold and secure was lifted around 2:50 p.m. This story will be updated when further information is available.
A representative from Scott Young Public School contacted the City of Kawartha Lakes Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) after several students reported that they had heard what they believed to be gunshots in the area.
Officers from the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP attended the area to investigate. During the investigation, both Scott Young Public School and Lady Eaton Public School were placed into a hold and secure at 9:25 a.m. as a precaution.
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A hold and secure is a response to a threat or incident in the general vicinity of a school but not on or very near to school property. A school’s outer doors are locked during a hold and secure, and no one enters or leaves the building, but classes continue as normal inside.
This is opposed to a lockdown, which is used in a serious emergency situation where a threat is inside a school or on or very near to school property.
The police investigation indicated that the students heard the noise while on the school grounds at approximately 8:30 a.m. Further investigation found the reports to be unsubstantiated and police deemed there is no concern for the safety of the students.
As a result, the hold and secure was lifted at both schools at around 10:40 a.m.
Peterborough County OPP have released a surveillance video photo of a suspect in a February 17, 2020 break-in at at Doo Doo's Bakery in Bailieboro. (Supplied photo)
Peterborough County OPP are investigating a break-in that occurred early on Family Day at Doo Doo’s Bakery on County Road 28 in the village of Bailieboro.
At 4:10 a.m. on Monday (February 17), a suspect entered the bakery through a window and stole $900 in Canadian currency. The suspect was captured on surveillance video.
Investigators are looking for information that may lead to a suspect or suspects in this case. Anyone with tips on this case can contact Peterborough County OPP at 705-742-0401, the non-emergency line 1-888-310-1122, or online at stopcrimehere.ca.
Doo Doo’s Bakery also suffered a break-in in December 2019, when $1,000 in cash was reported stolen.
Equivalent in protein to a chicken's egg but with significantly fewer calories and less fat per serving, "the egg" is a finalist for the 2020 World Food Innovation Awards for "Best food concept", "Best ingredient innovation", and "Best plant-based alternative". (Photo: Eunite Foods / Noblegen)
businessNOW™ is the most comprehensive weekly round-up of business and organizational news and events from Peterborough and across the Kawarthas.
Every week, our managing editor collects news and events related to businesses and organizations from across the Kawarthas. If you’d like us to promote your news or event in businessNOW, please email business@kawarthanow.com.
The week’s news features Peterborough biotech company Noblegen becoming a World Food Innovation Awards finalist for its plant-based whole egg replacement product, Rolls-Royce expanding its Canadian naval marine division in Peterborough, a new business incubator for startups launching in Kawartha Lakes, Tyler and Kassy Scott renovating and rebranding their downtown Peterborough restaurant as “Rare”, and other notable business and organization news from across the Kawarthas.
New events added this week include Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development’s business planning workshop in Peterborough on February 26th, the Brighton & Cramahe Chamber’s annual general meeting in Colborne on February 27th, the Peterborough Chamber’s networking event at Showplace in Peterborough on March 3rd, the Northumberland Chamber and Town of Cobourg’s 2019 Business Achievement Awards gala in Cobourg on March 6th, a business summit in Peterborough on March 11th, and the Trent Hills Chamber’s annual general meeting in Campbellford on March 12th.
Peterborough biotech company Noblegen is World Food Innovation Awards finalist for plant-based whole egg replacement product
Peterborough biotech company Noblegen Inc. is a finalist for the 2020 World Food Innovation Awards for the company’s plant-based whole egg replacement product named “the egg”, which has been nominated in the “Best food concept”, “Best ingredient innovation”, and “Best plant-based alternative” categories.
Noblegen’s first direct-to-consumer product, “the egg” is a vegan-friendly and cholesterol- and soy-free alternative to traditional chicken eggs. It is made from Euglena gracilis, a non-GMO microorganism.
Equivalent in protein to a chicken’s egg but with significantly fewer calories and less fat per serving, “the egg” is a finalist for the 2020 World Food Innovation Awards in the “Best food concept”, “Best ingredient innovation”, and “Best plant-based alternative” categories. (Photo: Eunite Foods / Noblegen)
Euglena protein is a complete plant-based, highly digestible protein, with a high amino acid score and a protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of 0.96. “the egg” contains six grams of plant-based protein per serving, equivalent to that of a chicken’s egg, but with significantly fewer calories and less fat per serving.
“We’ve been able to use it in so many different applications,” said Noblegen CEO and founder Adam Noble. “It has successfully replaced eggs in vegan pancakes, stratas, breakfast sandwiches, quiches, and even a chocolate cake. No other plant-based egg scramble can also be used to functionally replace chicken eggs in a cake — ‘the egg’ can.”
“the egg” is being launched exclusively through Eunite (pronounced “you-nite”), the food and ingredient brand for Noblegen established in 2019. All of Noblegen’s ingredients and food products will fall under the Eunite brand.
VIDEO: “How to Cook the egg”
“Our Eunite brand is all about uniting people and empowering them to be a part of and have input on what they eat,” Noble says. “It gives typical consumers a voice in creating a new food product that meets their daily needs. If you want to eat more sustainably, food products with the Eunite seal on them can help you do that.”
For a limited time only, “the egg” will be available in the continental U.S. in a tester form for early adopters to receive the product for only a small shipping cost. It will be sent to consumers interested in trying the product and offering input to Eunite as the company continues to develop later versions of the product.
The cost is $8.99 for a pouch, available exclusively through www.eunitefoods.com.
As for the 2020 World Food Innovation Awards, the winners in all 28 categories will be announced as part of a special ceremony at HRC in London, UK on Thursday, March 5th.
Rolls-Royce is expanding its Canadian naval marine division in Peterborough
The Rolls-Royce Canadian naval marine division in Peterborough designs and manufactures the company’s mission bay handling system, used to deploy and recover naval vehicles and packages from ships. (Photo: Rolls-Royce Holdings plc)
Rolls-Royce is expanding its Canadian naval marine division, located at 597 The Queensway in Peterborough.
The company held a groundbreaking ceremony for its Centre of Excellence for Naval Handling equipment last Friday (February 14), attended by Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef and MPP Dave Smith, Peterborough mayor Diane Therrien and city councillor Stephen Wright, and Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development president and CEO Rhonda Keenan.
The expanded division is designing and manufacturing Rolls-Royce’s mission bay handling system, which can launch and recover naval vehicles and move containerised packages without the aid of a dockside crane. The multi-functional system can also be easily adapted to support custom operational requirements, such as humanitarian missions, by providing the space for medical facilities and aid supplies. The system enables efficient deployment and recovery of manned and unmanned crafts from both sides of a ship.
My pleasure to be present at the official groundbreaking ceremony for Rolls Royce Peterborough's Defence Facility. This is great news for Peterborough-Kawartha and a significant high technology expansion.
The mission bay handling system is a feature of the global combat ship design, selected for the Royal Canadian Navy’s 15 new Canadian Surface Combatant ships, as well as the Australian Hunter Class and UK Type 26 programs.
“This centre will harness and build upon the wealth of Canadian engineering and technological expertise we have at Rolls-Royce,” says Bruce Lennie, Roll-Royce vice president of business development and government affairs. “We look forward to growing our business in country, further developing our supply chain and enhancing our contributions to the Canadian economy.”
Best known to the public for its high-end vehicles, Rolls-Royce is a highly diversified technology company that also provides products for the civil aerospace, defence, and nuclear power industries. It employs more than 1,000 Canadians in five facilities in cities including Montreal, Ottawa, and Peterborough.
New business incubator for startups launches in Kawartha Lakes
City of Kawartha Lakes mayor Andy Letham speaks at the grand opening of the new business incubator at 180 Kent Street West in downtown Lindsay on February 11, 2020. (Photo courtesy of Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas)
The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas and the City of Kawartha Lakes officially launched a new business incubator for entrepreneurs in the Kawartha Lakes last Tuesday (February 11), as part of a joint pilot project supported by Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corporation.
The new business incubator, located at 180 Kent Street West in downtown Lindsay, will provide startup businesses in Kawartha Lakes with necessary support, financial, and technical services.
A not-for-profit economic development organization, the Innovation Cluster launched its business incubator in downtown Peterborough in 2017. In 2018, the Innovation Cluster supported eight businesses in Kawartha Lakes, leading to the idea of expanding the concept into the City of Kawartha Lakes.
Tyler and Kassy Scott renovate and rebrand their downtown Peterborough restaurant as “Rare”
Tyler and Kassy Scott in front of their recently renovated and rebranded downtown Peterborough restaurant. (Photo: Ash Nayler Photography)
Tyler and Kassandra (Kassy) Scott recently renovated and rebranded their downtown Peterborough restaurant as “Rare”.
The couple purchased the former Rare Grill House, located at 166 Brock Street, from Brad and Katie Watt in September 2019. Tyler, who is Rare’s executive chef, was originally hired by Brad Watt as a sous chef in 2013.
The rebranding, which includes the new name and design, was completed by Pioneer Inc. with carpentry done by Lumbermen Carpentry.
Rare is open for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday and from 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday to Saturday.
Other notable business and organization news from across the Kawarthas
A look inside the recently renovated Dan Joyce’s Classic Clothing in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Dan Joyce’s Classic Clothing / Facebook)
Here’s a summary of other notable business and organizational news from across the Kawarthas over the past week:
Owner Nancy Wiskel recently renovated Dan Joyce’s Classic Clothing in downtown Peterborough, complete with a new logo. After a week of renovations with a new design by Lakeshore Designs, the store at 87 Hunter Street West held its grand re-opening last Saturday (February 15).
Peterborough-based independent game studio Bloom Digital Media will be releasing the first episode of its latest romance-related game, Later Daters, on April 16, 2020 on Steam, Itch.io, and Nintendo Switch. The game, a “visual novel” in several episodes, allows users to play as a senior and interact with eight characters in the community. Founded by Miriam Verburg, Bloom Digital Media released its GBTQ+ inclusive dating game LongStory on the Nintendo Switch in 2018.
Mike Watt and Shelby Leonard-Watt, owners of Providence, S.O.S Save Our Soles, and Flavour Fashion in downtown Peterborough, are renting out the previous location of S.O.S. at 388 George Street North. For more information, email 218apartments@gmail.com.
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Innovation Cluster hosts selling to government workshop in Peterborough on February 18
The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas is hosting “Hands-ON: Selling to Government” from 12 to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18th at the Innovation Cluster’s third floor office at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough)
Gregory J. Stulen, a specialist in strategic communications and public policy transformation at PathwayGroup Inc., will share information on becoming a vendor of record, accessing existing funds, creating new funding streams, and generating opportunities through regulatory change.
There will be a catered lunch supplied to workshop attendees.
Peterborough Chamber hosts lunchtime seminar on environmental due diligence and remediation in Peterborough on February 19
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is hosting “Lunch Box Learning: Real Estate Due Diligence – Your Environmental Toolbox” from 12 to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19th in the Chamber boardroom (175 George St. N., Peterborough).
Presented by environmental firm Pinchin, the seminar focuses on environmental due diligence and remediation services such as environmental site assessments, building condition assessments, and asbestos, mould and air surveys.
The seminar is free to attend for Chamber members and members of the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough. Bring your own lunch.
Kawartha Lakes Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre hosts small business tax seminar in Lindsay on February 19
The Kawartha Lakes Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre in partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency is hosting a tax seminar for small business owners from 1 to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18th in the lower level meeting room at the Lindsay Library (190 Kent St. W., Lindsay).
This seminar is offered to owners of small businesses and self-employed individuals who need help in understanding their tax obligations. The presentation is geared towards sole proprietorship and incorporated businesses and will provide participants with the basic principles and resources needed to navigate the tax system.
Kawartha Chamber holds annual general meeting in Lakefield on February 19
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is holding its annual general meeting beginning at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19th at The Village Inn (39 Queen St., Lakefield).
Open to all Chamber members, the meeting will feature highlights from 2019, networking, and light refreshments. Members will vote for the Chamber’s 2020-21 board and elect the executive. The 2018-19 annual report will be circulated before the meeting.
Trent Hills Chamber hosts lunchtime seminar on WSIB in Campbellford on February 25
The Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce is hosting a “lunch ‘n’ learn” seminar on the WSIB Health and Safety Excellence Program from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25th in the boardroom at Team Eagle (10 Trent Dr., Campbellford).
Find out more about the program and how it can help your bottom line. Bring your own lunch and a refreshment to the meeting.
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development hosts new venture session in Peterborough on February 25
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development is hosting a “New Venture Session” from 4 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25th in the VentureNorth board room (270 George St., Peterborough).
Intended for entrepreneurs starting a new business, the session will provide an overview of the foundations of starting and running a business, resources and programs available to entrepreneurs in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, how to work with the Business Advisory Centre to build a plan of action for your business, and completing the start-up checklist
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development hosts business planning workshop in Peterborough on February 26
Due to popular demand, Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development is hosting another “Business Fundamentals: Business Planning” workshop from 9 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26th in the VentureNorth board room (270 George St., Peterborough).
The session is designed to give entrepreneurs a strong foundation in business planning and to explain the importance of a comprehensive business plan. Tools available for creating a business plan will be shared as well as top tips for creating a plan ready to share with banks and funding agencies to secure financing.
Port Hope Chamber holds annual general meeting in Port Hope on February 26
The Port Hope and District Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual general meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26th in the Sculthorpe Theatre at Cameco Capitol Arts Centre (20 Queen St., Port Hope).
Open to all Chamber members, the meeting will include a review of by-law changes and “Fostering an ecosystem of entrepreneurship”, a presentation by Lindsay Jeremiah, manager of entrepreneurship services at Durham College.
A light lunch will be served by Brandon Manor Bed & Breakfast.
Brighton & Cramahe Chamber hold annual general meeting in Colborne on February 27
Brighton & Cramahe Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual general meeting from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Thursday, February 27th at the Golden Rooster (5 Toronto St., Colborne).
The meeting will begin with breakfast and a guest speaker from Friends of Presqu’ile Park, followed by details from the Chamber’s new strategic plan.
Chamber members are encouraged to attend and others are welcome. The cost is $15 to cover the breakfast.
Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland presents “Scale Up Your Business” seminar in Cobourg on February 27
Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN), in partnership with local chambers, is presenting “Scale Up Your Business” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 27th in the BECN boardroom (600 William St., Cobourg).
This practical seminar for existing businesses, presented by Andrew Patricio of BizLaunch, will cover topics including how to create a business vision, how to set 10-year goals, how to determine your core focus, how to create a simple marketing strategy, how to set financial targets, and more.
Peterborough Chamber hosts networking event at Showplace in Peterborough on March 3
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is hosting its next Peterborough Business Exchange (PBX) networking event from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3rd at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough).
PBX is for anyone in business looking to interact with other businesses, influencers, and community leaders. See what Showplace has to offer and take a tour of their facilities.
Everyone is invited to attend this event. Chamber members are welcome to bring a door prize for a plug at the podium.
Northumberland Chamber and Town of Cobourg host 2019 Business Achievement Awards gala in Cobourg on March 6
The Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Cobourg are hosting the 2019 Business Achievement Awards gala beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 6th at Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn and Convention Centre (930 Burnham St., Cobourg).
The awards recognize excellence and honour high achievers in the local business community. Gala attendees can network during cocktails at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and the awards ceremony beginning at 6:45 p.m.
Peterborough Chamber and partners host business summit in Peterborough on March 11
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development and RT08, is hosting “Business Summit 2020: Future Ready” from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11th at Ashburnham Funeral Home & Reception Centre (840 Armour Rd., Peterborough).
The half-day conference focused on strengthening business features author, entrepreneur and motivational speaker Daniel Lewis as keynote speaker along with a series of workshops and a panel discussion.
The cost is $75, which includes breakfast and lunch. Register at peterboroughchamber.ca.
Trent Hills Chamber holds annual general meeting in Campbellford on March 12
The Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual general meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 12th at the Clock Tower Cultural Centre (36 Front St. S., Campbellford).
The event features networking and light refreshments at 6 p.m. followed by the annual general meeting, including a review of the Chamber events, activities, and programs that took place in 2019, at 6:30 p.m.
Debbie Smith is a Certified Financial Planner with IG Wealth Management in Peterborough. She relates strongly to the needs of women who come to her for help and guidance with their finances. (Supplied photo)
Statistics tell us that women still have to take “time-outs” from their careers to have children, care for ageing parents, or manage family health emergencies.
All of this can have an impact on women’s future financial security, goals, and risk tolerance.
No one understands this better than Peterborough-based Debbie Smith, a Certified Financial Planner professional, mother, and grandmother.
“Women in the 45-plus demographic have money needs that differ significantly from those of men,” Debbie says. “I find that women want a financial plan — but more than that, they want a genuine relationship with their planner.”
“If they are widows or going through a divorce, they want to be educated and informed. They want to be able to make sound financial decisions, and to feel the confidence to seize any opportunities that present themselves.”
Women want to be educated and informed. They want to be able to make sound financial decisions, and to feel the confidence to seize any opportunities that present themselves.”
Debbie points out that her own path has been anything but straight, and yet it’s prepared her well to help other women.
Her history includes a major time-out to return to university when her youngest son was two — so that she could earn a longed-for degree in sociology — and eight years helping her husband to build a successful local busines
“After building Signarama, together with my husband Morgan, from $400,000 in revenues to over $2 million annually, I understand the challenges, the time, and the effort that goes into owning and operating a successful business,” she says.
After all that time spent learning the basics of running a business, Debbie answered an inner nudge and stepped away to restart her own career on a completely new path: financial planning for women.
She relates strongly to the needs of women who come to her for help and guidance with their finances.
And the reality for women continues to differ, Debbie observes. She cites statistics that, due to taking time off to have children and to care for elder parents, women only work 75 per cent of the years that men work but spend 28 per cent longer in retirement — while living 4.1 years longer.
“This sometimes creates lower incomes, fewer investments, and lower CPP contributions,” she says.
Women want a financial plan to help them deal with that reality and life’s surprises such as illness or divorce, she notes, or guidance on vitally important choices such as insurance and power of attorney.
Debbie says that, even if women are handling a healthy inheritance or the benefits of a life insurance policy from a deceased spouse, there can still be special challenges.
For example, a significant number of baby boomers are in danger of using up their money to help their children buy homes or meet expenses — thereby putting their own future security at risk.
A 2017 survey found one quarter of boomers are providing financial support to either their children or grandchildren. Two thirds say this is preventing them from saving enough for their own retirement, and more than a half report feeling financially stressed as a result.
“Whether independent or in a relationship, women benefit from taking control of their finances,” Debbie explains.
“Increased longevity means more and more women are controlling a majority of the wealth, and it is expected they will continue to do so. I can help them create their financial safety net and maintain their independence so that they can concentrate on enjoying life.”
This is a general source of information only. It is not intended to provide personalized tax, legal or investment advice, and is not intended as a solicitation to purchase securities or insurance. Debbie Smith is solely responsible for its content.
Debbie Smith, B.A., CFP, RRC, works with Investors Group Financial Services Inc. at 1743 Lansdowne Street West in Peterborough. For more information on this topic or any other financial matter, call 705-876-1282, email debbie.smith@investorsgroup.com, or visit advisor.investorsgroup.com/en/debbie_smith. You can also connect with Debbie on LinkedIn and Facebook.
Messy winter weather is coming to the Kawarthas beginning overnight on Monday (February 17).
Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for all of the Kawarthas, in effect for overnight and Tuesday.
A low pressure system will emerge from Texas and track towards the Great Lakes on Monday. This system will bring a band of snow with it, arriving in eastern Ontario after 2 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
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Snow will continue well into Tuesday morning with total amounts of 5 to 10 cm expected by Tuesday afternoon. Locally higher amounts of 10 to 15 cm are possible in a few localities just north of Lake Ontario.
Poor winter driving conditions from accumulating snow and low visibility in briefly heavier snow are likely by Tuesday morning.
The morning commute will be affected. Motorists should allow extra time to reach their destination.
Snow will change over to rain or drizzle Tuesday afternoon as a warm front moves through and temperatures rise above the zero degree mark.
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region encourages area residents to donate their new and gently used items at any of the three ReStore locations at 300 Milroy Drive (pictured) and 550 Braidwood Avenue in Peterborough, and at 55 Angeline Street North in Lindsay. If you have bulky items you're unable to transport yourself like large appliances and furniture, a pickup can be arranged where ReStore staff can come to you to assist with the items. By donating to ReStore, you are not only keeping items out of the landfill but are helpiing local families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
Spring is just around the corner. For many people, it’s a great time to renovate or declutter. Naturally, during the spring-cleaning process, clearing out the clutter also means deciding what to do with it once it’s ready to leave the home.
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region wants you to consider bringing your new and gently used items to them. Donations can be made at any of their three ReStore locations (open to the public Monday through Sunday) at 300 Milroy Drive and 550 Braidwood Avenue in Peterborough, and at 55 Angeline Street North in Lindsay.
By donating your household items and building materials to Habitat for Humanity, you’ll be making eco-conscious choices (keeping them out of landfills) while supporting building projects for affordable housing in your community.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore will accept donations of kitchen cabinetry, sinks, toilets, lighting, furniture, building materials, scrap metal, and more. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
Donations for safe, decent, and affordable housing
Making donations to your local ReStore means investing in safe, decent and affordable housing for members of the community who need it most. What can you donate? Almost everything — including the kitchen sink. The Habitat for Humanity ReStore will accept donations of kitchen cabinetry, sinks, toilets, lighting, furniture, building materials, scrap metal, and more.
“When someone is decluttering or renovating, we encourage them to bring any unused or previously loved items to the ReStore,” says Christina Skuce, Director of Philanthropy & Communications with Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region. “We welcome quality new and gently used furniture, home décor, housewares, appliances, DIY and renovation materials, and so much more.”
The ReStore will accept donations of electronics (working or not), kitchen cabinets, dishes, books, movies, artwork, outdoor furniture, vacuums, and even your new or used car. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
The ReStore will also accept donations of electronics (working or not), kitchen cabinets, dishes, books, movies, artwork, outdoor furniture, vacuums, and even your new or used car. While they do not take clothing donations, they do offer donation bins on site for one-stop donors.
“To make donating items easier for our customers, so that they can donate all of their items in one location and avoid multiple drop offs, we have clothing and textile donation bins on site that are shared with our other charity partners,” adds Skuce. “We can not accept mattress donations, anything damaged or excessively stained or dirty, and we can’t accept anything with a safety rating on it such as strollers, highchairs, and cribs.”
While mattresses are not accepted, bed frames and headboards in good condition are welcome. Tools, windows, doors, lawn equipment, electrical or plumbing supplies and hardware can also be donated. You can find a complete list of what is and is generally not accepted on the ReStore website at www.habitatpkr.ca/restores.
The ReStore will accept donations of new and gently used furniture, home décor, housewares, appliances, DIY and renovation materials, and more. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
“If you’re decluttering or remodelling, moving or downsizing, or if it’s just time to renew your space, think ReStore,” says Skuce. “Whenever you donate excess household goods or building materials to a ReStore, you’re helping to support local families and the environment, by enabling the ReStore to recycle perfectly re-usable household items — reducing your environmental footprint.”
“This as an environmentally conscious decision as well as an opportunity to help local families build strength, stability, and self-reliance.”
Large donations for pick up, scrap metal, e-waste and vehicles wanted
Habitat Peterborough’s kitchen removal experts will remove your unwanted kitchen cabinetry or pick up your already disassembled cabinetry, free of charge. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
For donations to the Restore, size doesn’t matter. If you have items that you’re unable to transport like dishwashers, dryers, or tables, a pickup can be arranged. ReStore staff can come to you to assist with larger items.
You can even enlist the help of Habitat Peterborough’s kitchen removal experts. They will remove your unwanted kitchen cabinetry or pick up your already disassembled cabinetry, free of charge. Donation pickups can be arranged within the City and County of Peterborough and in the City of Kawartha Lakes.
E-waste — waste that is electronic (both functioning and non-functioning items) — can also be useful to the ReStore. Scrap metal is also considered a worthy donation.
Both functioning and non-functioning electronics can also be useful to the ReStore. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
Even if something doesn’t work or seems like it cannot be used, it’s worth bringing to the store before dumping in a landfill.
“You can turn your old electronics into homes for Habitat,” explains Skuce. “Don’t dump it, donate it. Maybe it’s an old TV or VCR that doesn’t work or get used anymore, or an old stereo. Our ReStores provide a free recycling program that raises funds to build Habitat homes by collecting your unwanted electronics.”
A new or used vehicle donation is yet one more way that you can support Habitat for Humanity’s work in Peterborough and the Kawartha Region.
Tools, windows, doors, lawn equipment, electrical or plumbing supplies and hardware can also be donated. You can find a complete list of what is and is generally not accepted on the ReStore website. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
Beyond your donation, how to get involved
In addition to donating items to the ReStore, shopping in the store is another way to support Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region. As a Habitat ReStore customer, you’ll never have to pay tax and you’ll always get a great deal. Purchases made in store help to finance ongoing build projects within your community.
“Every purchase in the ReStore creates the opportunity for a better life, and helps local families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership,” Skuce notes. “So by supporting a Habitat ReStore in Peterborough or in Lindsay, you contribute to one of our upcoming or ongoing home building projects.”
An architectural rendering of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region’s planned 41-unit affordable condo development at 33 Leahy’s Lane in Peterborough. (Graphic courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
“One of our big projects coming up this year will be starting in the spring. We will begin construction of a 41-unit affordable condo building in Peterborough,” Skuce points out.
If you’ve already decluttered and are looking to get involved, volunteers are always welcome. You can help by volunteering in the ReStore to test products, greet customers, stock shelves, and accept donated items. High school students and youth volunteers are also encouraged to get involved.
“Volunteers are the heart of our organization,” says Skuce. “They are involved in every aspect of the organization from the ReStore, to the build site, to the office, to committees and the Board. We would not be able to get more families into decent, affordable homes without the generous support of our volunteers.”
Volunteers are always welcome in the ReStore to test products, greet customers, stock shelves, and accept donated items. High school students and youth volunteers are also encouraged to get involved. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
While spring may be a great time to declutter and donate to the ReStore, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region accepts donations year-round and is always looking for new items to restock their inventory. Don’t be afraid to bring in your new or gently used items any time of year.
“Every donation made to a ReStore helps create the opportunity for a local family to build a better life,” says Skuce. “All proceeds stay local and are invested into building safe, decent and affordable homes in the City and County of Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lakes.”
To make your donation today, visit your local ReStore Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, including volunteer opportunities, visit www.habitatpkr.ca.
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