Members of 100 Men Kawartha Lakes gathered at the Fenelon Falls Legion on June 5, 2025, where they voted to donate over $10,000 to the Lindsay Agricultural Society, and $2,500 each to Lindsay Little Theatre and the Kinsmen Club of Lindsay. (Photo: 100 Men Kawartha Lakes)
100 Men Kawartha Lakes has done it again.
This time, members of the collective philanthropy group gathered on June 5 at the Fenelon Falls Legion for camaraderie and to cast their ballots for their choice of three local charities to receive a cut of a combined total of more than $15,000 in donations.
As happens ahead of each of the group’s quarterly meetings, three nominated organizations are drawn at random and a representative from each organization attends the meeting to make a brief presentation on their organization’s work and how the group would spend and benefit from a donation. Members then vote on which charity should receive the group’s largest donation.
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During this second meeting of 2025, the three charities were Lindsay Little Theatre, the Lindsay Agricultural Society, and the Kinsmen Club of Lindsay.
As a result of receiving the most votes, the Lindsay Agricultural Society received a $10,000-plus donation, with Lindsay Little Theatre and the Kinsmen Club of Lindsay each receiving $2,500.
According to 100 Men Kawartha Lakes member Brad Campkin, Lindsay Agricultural Society general manager Lance Nachoff told the group the society will use the donation to create a special booth at its events for the use of local charities to provide information about what they do and for fundraising.
Nachoff said he expected the donation from 100 Men Kawartha Lakes will generate over $100,000 worth of advertising, promotions, and donations for local charities.
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During the meeting, the group also heard from Jack Veitch of the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) about how the March donation from 100 Men Kawartha Lakes has impacted the lives of local residents who needed mental health support.
Campkin told kawarthaNOW the meeting was “a huge success,” noting that collective philanthropy is “a simple concept — four meetings a year, each guy donates $100 in just under one hour.”
“If you cannot make a meeting, it’s no problem,” he said, adding that members can send their donation to the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes, which administers a fund on behalf of 100 Men Kawartha Lakes to assist with some of the financial and administrative tasks related to donation collection, tax receipting, and funds management.
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As is common practice with collective philanthropy groups, 100 Men Kawartha Lakes previously chose a single charity to receive their donations. However, as the group grew well beyond 100 members, it decided to provide a portion of the donations to the other presenting charities.
“As our group has grown, we have realized all the monies going to one charity was excessive,” Campkin said.
So far in 2025, the group has donated almost $30,000 to local charities, bringing the total since the group’s formation in 2018 to nearly $280,000 donated to 38 organizations.
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“At the June meeting, we had several new members bringing our total members to just over 170,” Campkin added. “When we hit 200, we will vote on staying as one group or separating into three,” which would serve the Fenelon Falls, Lindsay, and Bobcaygeon areas.
“We expect our September and December meetings to be epic with more new members and bringing our total donations for the year 2025 to over $65,000.”
For more information about 100 Men Kawartha Lakes or to join, visit 100menkawarthalakes.ca.
The New Canadians Centre is hosting the 2025 Canadian Multicultural Festival from June 18 to 27, featuring a series of events including dance lessons, a discussion panel, a cooking class, and more in Peterborough, with an additional event in Northumberland County. The festival culminates on Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27 with the New Canadians Centre 46th anniversary block party outside its Peterborough location at St. James United Church. (Photo courtesy of New Canadians Centre)
Culminating with a celebration of Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, the New Canadians Centre (NCC) is transporting Nogojiwanong-Peterborough across the world with a series of events that celebrate the city’s rich cultural diversity.
For the fourth year, the non-profit organization that supports newcomers to the region is hosting the Canadian Multicultural Festival, a multi-day series of celebrations to highlight dance, food, stories, and people around the world. Kicking off on Wednesday (June 18), events will run until Friday, June 27.
“It’s really special when you can showcase something that’s so important to you — that being your culture and your identity,” says NCC Manager of Community Development Bhisham Ramoutar.
Organized by the New Canadians Centre, the 2025 Canadian Multicultural Festival runs from June 18 to 27 in Peterborough and Northumberland. (Poster courtesy of New Canadians Centre)
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“It’s important for individuals who are new to Canada to share a little bit more about themselves, their culture, and their traditions, but it’s also very valuable for the wider community to have a chance to very respectfully engage in those cultures and learn something new,” Ramoutar says. “That’s how we build bridges and how we grow as a community.”
Last year alone, NCC supported over 2,100 individuals who were new to Canada and came from over 100 different countries, speaking more than 70 various languages.
Ramoutar, who himself came to Canada from Trinidad and Tobago a dozen years ago, says it’s always special when he meets others who share similar stories and experiences. One of the benefits of the festival is that it offers a welcoming and inclusive space where newcomers can make connections with one another.
“For a lot of our clients, the festival is a very special time for them to represent their own culture,” he says. “There’s a lot going on in the world, but Peterborough is a welcoming community. To feel that the community has invested in you — has invested in you being a member of this community — and has been hearing your stories, it really makes you not just think that you’re welcome, but that you belong in the community as well.”
The New Canadians Centre is hosting the 2025 Canadian Multicultural Festival beginning on June 18 and culminating on Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27. For the fourth year, the festival offers not only a way for newcomers to connect with one another and celebrate their culture and customs, but for attendees to learn about different cultures by participating in immersive activities. (Photo courtesy of New Canadians Centre)
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At the festival, attendees can learn about other cultures by being fully immersed in their traditions, including dining on cultural dishes, listening to stories, and even taking to the dance floor.
“Culture is so vast, and there are so many facets to it — it’s our customs, our music, our food, our storytelling,” says Ramoutar. “Everyone has these different things that are important to them.”
“We want to show that varied picture of multiculturalism in our community and provide an opportunity for the wider community to learn something that they may not have the opportunity to learn in a different space. It’s a chance for people to be immersed in things that are new to them.”
During the 2025 Canadian Multicultural Festival held in Peterborough from June 18 to 27, the New Canadians Centre will be hosting two “Try It” activities where attendees can become immersed in various cultures. One of the events will involve learning about and savouring staple dishes of Syrian cuisine, including Muhammara and Tabbouleh. The event takes place at the New Canadians Centre’s Romaine Street location on June 22 and is limited to 20 participants. (Photo courtesy of New Canadians Centre)
The festival will kick off with a family-friendly Multicultural Dance Party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18 at Peterborough Square, where knowledgeable instructors will lead dance styles from round the world in 30-minute intervals.
Mintu James, an instructor in Bharatanatyam (an ancient classical Indian dance originating from Tamil Nadu in South India), will lead a Bollyfit session, which combines Bollywood and cardio in a style similar to Zumba. Instructor Shaoling Wang will transport you to China for a traditional folk dance with slower and more intricate movements. To leave attendees feeling rejuvenated, the activity will close with a high-energy, rhythm-packed Nigerian Naija dance class led by various members of the community.
“There are so many dance styles around the world and many different cultures where dance is a really fundamental part of their culture,” Ramoutar points out. “This event is meant to really immerse people into those different styles.”
The first 50 participants to the event will receive a $10 Boro gift cards which can be used at downtown businesses, courtesy of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area.
New Canadians Centre is located at 221 Romaine Street in Peterborough, in the St. James United Church building that the non-profit organization recently purchased after being a tenant for over a decade. Last year alone, the New Canadians Centre supported over 2,100 people who came to Canada from over 100 different countries, speaking more than 70 different languages. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
The following day (Thursday, June 19), a community conversation will take place at 6 p.m. at the Peterborough Public Library in honour of World Refugee Day on June 20. Titled “Home, Disrupted: Stories of Displacement and Belonging”, the event will feature an evening of storytelling, reflection, and connection moderated by Marisa Kaczmarczyk, NCC’s Director of Client Services.
Panellists Carlos Padrino, Sahimar Padrino, Charlotte Nzabondera, and Rashid Sheikh Hassan will share stories of their lived experience, exploring what it means to lose a home and finding safety in a new one. Community members David McNab and Kristy Hiltz will also talk about their experience in sponsoring Hassan and his Syrian family to come to Canada, as well as other Syrian refugees. Advance registration is required at ca.mar.medallia.com/wrdpanel2025.
Also on Thursday, the Canadian Multicultural Festival will see the first of three “Try It” events designed to immerse participants into other cultures. From 7 to 8 p.m. at the New Canadians Centre’s Romaine Street location, “Try it – Qigong” is the start of a four-week Qigong series led by Jesse Gottlieb-Jacob of Peterborough Accupuncture. Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, breathing techniques, and meditation. These drop-in classes are open to all and offer a relaxing and rejuvenating way to care for your mind and body while giving back to the community. No experience is needed, and registration is not required. Admission is pay what you can, with all proceeds supporting the New Canadians Centre and YES Shelter for Youth and Families.
On Friday (June 20) from 5 to 7 p.m. at Peterborough Square, “Try It: Salsa Dance” will see participants learn a salsa dance routine with instructor Amarillis Rivero Garcia. When you’re not dancing, you can browse and shop at a marketplace of multicultural crafts made by artisans in NCC’s women’s group. Registration is not required. The rain location is indoors at Peterborough Square.
During the 2025 Canadian Multicultural Festival running from June 18 to 27, the New Canadians Centre will be selling tote bags and T-shirts bearing the festival logo. Attendees can also pick up a passport to be stamped at each attended event, and a passport with three or more stamps can be entered into a draw for the chance to win a Boro gift card that can be used at downtown Peterborough businesses. (Photo courtesy of New Canadians Centre)
The third “Try It” event takes place on Sunday, June 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the NCC’s location at 221 Romaine Street. During “Try It: Syrian Cuisine Cooking Class,” participants will discover, learn, and cook up Syrian staples like Muhammara and Baba Ghanouj, as well as a few distinct dishes local to different regions in Syria. The class is limited to 20 participants and advance registration is required at ca.mar.medallia.com/syriancooking.
Bringing the multicultural celebration to NCC’s satellite location in Cobourg, the Canadian Multicultural Festival will also include the free “Around the World in Northumberland” celebration on June 25 at 6 p.m. at Victoria Park (near the Lions Pavilion). Attendees will enjoy cultural performances by the Northumberland Multicultural Dance Troupe — with dances from the Philippines, Spain, Columbia, and beyond — while enjoying snacks and beverages from around the world. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
The Canadian Multicultural Festival closes out in a big way with NCC’s 46th Anniversary Block Party from 2 to 6 p.m. on Friday, June 27 in front of the organization’s location at 221 Romaine Street in Peterborough.
The family-friendly community event will feature a fun-filled afternoon of musical performances, henna face painting, a bouncy castle, food, and more. The Peterborough Public Library will be on site doing some activities, and there will be a Cultural Fair where attendees can learn about some of Peterborough’s multicultural and faith-based groups and their programming. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
New Canadians Centre executive director Andy Cragg (centre) with team members during the non-profit organization’s 45th anniversary block party outside its location at St. James United Church in Peterborough on June 28, 2024. As the final event of the 2025 Canadian Multicultural Festival, the New Canadians Centre will be hosting its 46th anniversary block party on Friday, June 27, which is Canadian Multiculturalism Day. The free family-friendly community event will feature musical performances, henna face painting, a bouncy castle, food, and more. (Photo courtesy of New Canadians Centre)
At each event during the festival, NCC will host a welcome desk where attendees can purchase T-shirts and tote bags with NCC’s Canadian Multicultural Festival logo. You can also pick up a festival passport to be stamped at each event you attend. Once you get three or more stamps, you can submit the passport to be entered in a draw for a Boro gift card you can use at downtown Peterborough businesses.
As Ramoutar notes, the Canadian Multicultural Festival is an opportunity for both newcomers and long-time residents to come together and celebrate the ever-increasing diversity of Peterborough.
“Through the festival, I hope people are able to build an appreciation of the journey that newcomers take when they move to Canada, the diversity of cultures that exist here in our community, and the power that comes when we welcome people and come together as a community,” Ramoutar says.
“If you are a newcomer, I hope you are able to feel and be seen and heard through these events in Peterborough.”
This branded editorial was created in partnership with the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
Cobourg post-secondary students Reagan Lalande (left) and Aishwarya Rajesh Krishnan (right) with Northumberland Hills Hospital's board chair Cyndi Gilmer following the presentation of their Health Professions Scholarship awards on June 5, 2025. Each student has received $1,500 towards their healthcare education. (Photo: Northumberland Hills Hospital)
Two students pursuing careers in healthcare have received a financial boost for their education thanks to a Northumberland County hospital.
Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) in Cobourg recently announced the recipients of its 2025 Health Professions Scholarship awards.
Aishwarya Rajesh Krishnan and Reagan Lalande have each received $1,500 towards their post-secondary education in the healthcare field. The scholarship recipients were announced during a meeting of the hospital’s board of directors last Thursday (June 5).
“This year, we were delighted to receive applications from students representing a broader range of disciplines and areas of study within the healthcare system,” said board chair Cyndi Gilmer in a statement.
“While there were many deserving candidates who applied, and we commend all on their hard work and interest in NHH, the successful recipients of our 2025 scholarships have both demonstrated a clear commitment to their chosen professions with a desire to return and practise in Northumberland County,” Gilmer added.
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The awards presentation is rooted in tradition, having been initiated in 2003 to support students from west Northumberland County who have chosen to pursue careers in the healthcare sector.
“We appreciate that it takes time and commitment to build a career in any profession, and healthcare and hospitals offer so many opportunities,” NHH president and CEO Susan Walsh told kawarthaNOW prior to the 2025 recipients being announced.
“This is a small token of our respect for the hard work that goes into education and professional development and, frankly, an investment in our own future, as it has proven very effective at attracting future employees to NHH.”
By supporting local students with their academic studies, the scholarship initiative aims to entice local students to seriously consider NHH when they graduate, and the time comes to select an employer.
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Rajesh Krishnan of Cobourg is currently in her first year of medical school at the University of Toronto after graduating with distinction, in the top three per cent, from Queen’s University’s bachelor of health sciences program. As a medical student, she has demonstrated a desire to “build more accessible, sustainable, and equitable pathways within the healthcare system,” a media release noted.
An active member of the Canadian Federation of Medical Students’ Health and Environment Adaptive Response Task Force, Krishnan has founded global health literacy initiatives while actively engaging in research spanning Indigenous health, climate advocacy, cardiac health, and healthcare sustainability.
She also served as section editor for the University of Toronto Medical Journal and is a co-founder of a telemedicine education initiative.
“Throughout my academic journey, I have sought to integrate service, leadership, and scholarship,” Rajesh Krishnan said in her scholarship application letter.
“These experiences have solidified my commitment to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care within community healthcare settings. Receiving the NHH Health Professions Scholarship would be a meaningful step in my journey toward serving the people of Northumberland County as a physician and advocate. I would be truly honoured to represent NHH’s values in my future career.”
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Lalande, also of Cobourg, recently earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology at Brock University and has been accepted into the primary care paramedic program at Niagara College. Following the successful completion of her diploma, she intends to obtain a graduate certificate for advanced care paramedicine.
“As a future paramedic, Reagan hopes to improve patient quality outcomes through data-driven approaches within emergency medical services,” NHH stated. “She would also like to provide public health education and community outreach programs that enhance emergency preparedness and awareness.”
In her application letter, Lalande said she feels her chosen occupation is a vital field within healthcare.
“This is because of the strong relationship and functioning system paramedics must have with the emergency room and hospital staff to provide the best possible care for patients,” she said. “As a paramedic, I hope to make contributions to this community through providing advanced clinical skills in a hands-on setting for those needing care.”
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In addition to being enrolled or accepted for enrolment in a full-time study program, applicants for NHH’s Health Professions Scholarship are evaluated on the basis of their academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, a personal testimonial they submit explaining their interest in a healthcare field, and written references.
Applications for the program are invited at any time, but typically close in February of each year, with presentations of the awards at the June meeting of the NHH board.
For full details on the Health Professions Scholarship program, including eligibility requirements, visit nhh.ca/careers/studentscholarship.
Pictured in an undated photo, Peterborough actor, playwright, and artist Chuck Vollmar passed away on June 11, 2025. (Photo via the Peterborough Theatre Guild)
Peterborough actor, playwright, and artist Chuck Vollmar has passed away.
According to an email from the Peterborough Theatre Guild, Vollmar died on Wednesday morning (June 11).
Vollmar, who began working in theatre in 1981, was best known locally for his comedic and dramatic roles in numerous Peterborough Theatre Guild productions. He was one of the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s actors who represented Canada in an international theatre festival in Japan with the production Hedges.
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Vollmar also had leading roles in productions that travelled to festivals in Asia, Aruba, Venezuela, and Newfoundland, and one several best actor awards.
In the 1990s, he was one of the founders of the Peterborough Improv Group, a troupe of improv actors who performed murder mysteries at private functions and local venues in the area.
Vollmar was also a playwright, writing Kawartha Love Letters for the Peterborough Theatre Guild and co-writing Fishing Buddies with Geoff Hewitson, which was produced by the Showplace Players in 2012 and reworked for the Peterborough Theatre Guild in 2014.
Chuck Vollmar (back right) with David Adams, Mark Paton, and Kellie McKinty in the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s 2015 production of “Born Yesterday.” (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW)
In addition to acting, Vollmar was a cartoonist and graphic designer. He designed and created the artwork for hundreds of promotional posters and program covers for the Peterborough Theatre Guild.
Vollmar twice received a Peterborough Civic Award for cultural betterment, first in 2008 and then, along with Geoff Hewitson, in 2015.
In 2016, he received an Ontario Volunteer Service Award for over 30 years of service with the Peterborough Theatre Guild and, in 2017, was inducted into the Peterborough and District Pathway of Fame in the dramatic arts category.
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“(We) will miss Chuck,” reads the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s email. “When he was in the audience, his contagious laugh could be heard throughout the theatre. His quick wit, beautifully kind nature, and amazing talent will be missed by all.”
“In a nutshell, Chuck was a beautiful human being and wonderful friend.”
kawarthaNOW will update this story when funeral arrangements are announced.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum's Sawyer-Massey traction steam engine was manufactured in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1921. This 17-horsepower engine is equipped with a single ground drive and is just strong enough to move its own weight at very low speed. (Photo: Ruth O'Connell)
Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene is kicking off its 2025 event season on Father’s Day with a show that’s sure to appeal to dads of all ages and their families too.
Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday (June 15), the 26th annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show offers a nostalgic look at tractors, vintage farm trucks, antique engines, and more.
As always, the family-friendly event will see local collectors bring to life antique tractors and steam engines as they compete for more than 20 awards, including Best Unique Exhibit, Best Display, and Lang Pioneer Village’s Choice.
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At noon, tractor games (including lawn tractor races) will feature tractors trying to balance on a tilted platform as fast as possible or manoeuvre through an obstacle course while balancing a tin can on a stick.
Visitors can see displays including smoke and steam collectibles, hit-and-miss engines, and antique tool collections, and learn about the many ways power was generated in the 19th century.
There will be a variety of historic demonstrations including grinding at the Grist Mill, weaving on the village’s Jacquard loom, natural dyeing, wood bending, and rope making, along wood turning by the Peterborough Artisan Centre Wood Turners and Kawartha Woodturners Guild.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s Sawyer-Massey traction steam engine leads the tractor parade during the annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show. Early steam engines were hauled by draft animals from job to job during the harvest to provide power to large machines such as shingle mills and threshing machines through a belt-and-pulley system. (Photo: Larry Keely)
The day also includes tractor and wagon tours of the village, a model train display brought by the Ganaraska Railway Modellers, live traditional music by Appalachian Celtic, a craft area, and old-fashioned games for the kids in the schoolyard (with a corn sandbox play area for the kids). Families can also visit the farm animals on loan from Harley Farms in Keene all summer.
Food options (for an additional fee) include freshly popped kettle corn from Ben’s Kettle Corn, BBQ from the Bewdley Lions Club food truck (cash only), fresh Empire Cheese curds in the Cheese Factory, and refreshments and sweet treats at the Keene Hotel. For those up for a delicious gastronomic challenge, there will also be a pie-eating contest at 2 p.m. on the Village Green (limited spaces available).
The day will finish with a tractor parade through the village beginning at 3 p.m.
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Admission to the Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show is $17 for adults, $12 for students and seniors 60 and older, and $9 for children and youth ages five to 14, with free admission for children under five. Family admission is also available for $45 and includes two adults and up to four children and youth.
Tickets can be purchased in advance or when arriving at Lang Pioneer Village Museum. For more information or to purchase advance tickets, visit langpioneervillage.ca/smoke-steam-show/.
Other special events at Lang Pioneer Village Museum this summer include the 28th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on Sunday, July 13 and a Corn Roast on Sunday, August 17. Outside of special events, the museum’s summer hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays until August 31 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).
Dr. Katie O'Reilly, pathologist and medical director of laboratory medicine at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), examines a tissue sample. The PRHC Foundation has made it a priority to invest in the future of cancer care by bringing digital pathology to the regional hospital, with the help of donors. An area of focus for the Foundation's $60 million Campaign for PRHC, the state-of-the-art technology will produce efficient and more accurate diagnoses, reduce turnaround time, and empower world-class healthcare close to home. (Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation)
As cancer rates continue to increase regionally, so too does the need for faster and more reliable diagnoses and treatment plans.
That’s why the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation has made it a priority to invest in the future of cancer care by bringing digital pathology to the regional hospital, with the help of donors.
An area of focus for the Foundation’s $60 million Campaign for PRHC, the state-of-the-art technology will produce efficient and more accurate diagnoses, reduce turnaround time, and empower world-class healthcare close to home.
VIDEO: Donor-funded digital pathology will be a game-changer for cancer care at PRHC
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“Every second counts when patients’ and their families’ lives are on hold, waiting for answers and the call that has the potential to change everything,” says PRHC Foundation president and CEO Lesley Heighway. “Digital pathology will make that experience a little bit better by giving doctors the accurate information they need to diagnose, communicate with anxious patients, and make treatment decisions — faster than ever before.”
Currently, the regional hospital’s pathology laboratory manually processes all tissue samples from PRHC and four partner hospitals. A pathologist uses a microscope to assess the samples and render a pathology report to pass on to the medical oncologist, who will determine the patient’s treatment plans.
With a $2.5 million investment in digital pathology, high-resolution scanners will digitalize the glass slides with precise imaging. Using emerging tools, pathologists will be able to process tissue samples more efficiently, analyze them in greater detail, and provide faster results.
VIDEO: Cancer doesn’t wait, neither should cancer patients — digital pathology will help
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“It will make turnaround time from biopsy to diagnosis faster because the pathology report will be done faster,” says PRHC pathologist and medical director of laboratory medicine Dr. Katie O’Reilly. “We’ll be able to do some of the things here that now we currently have to send to Toronto to have done.”
When the samples do need to be reviewed by a specialist outside of Peterborough, the cutting-edge technology will allow the slides to be sent digitally, rather than by courier as is the current process. This will reduce costs, the potential for errors, and the time needed to make a diagnosis when every second is critical.
With PRHC having 23,000 cancer care visits last year alone, Dr. O’Reilly notes it is critical to upgrade the lab as soon as possible to keep up with the technology and the need for pathology reports.
“The field is moving really quickly,” she says. “We are constantly doing more with less resources and this is a way to help us keep up with demand.”
Dr. Neera Jeyabalan, medical oncologist at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), says bringing state-of-the-art digital pathology to the regional hospital with the help of donors means oncologists will be able to get diagnoses faster and reduce the time a patient has to wait for their treatment plan, a delay she labels as “one of the difficulties of the cancer journey.” (Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation)
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With improved technology and top health care professionals working behind the scenes, PRHC medical oncologist Dr. Neera Jeyabalan says introducing digital pathology will help patients navigating the uncertainty and helplessness that comes with a cancer diagnosis.
“Waiting for a diagnosis is really one of the difficulties of the cancer journey, and not knowing what you’re facing and what sort of treatments you’re eligible for,” she says. “When they get to meet their team and they know what the path forward looks like, it does offer comfort knowing that they are now proactively doing something to have it managed.”
This was the experience for PRHC patient Diana Freeman, a mother of two young girls who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 at 38 years old. Though she later underwent a double mastectomy and months of intensive chemotherapy and radiation, it was the time before she received the prognosis and knew her path forward when she lost hope.
“How are you supposed to care for your kids and your family and yourself when you don’t know what your life is going to be like?” she asks.
Freeman says having “something to hold on to” upon learning of her prognosis and treatment plan helped her find her strength to face the fight against her cancer. Today, she is a PRHC Foundation volunteer hoping for a future where PRHC cancer patients will get their results even faster through digital pathology.
VIDEO: Quicker lab results mean more time — and hope — for cancer patients like Diana
Like many community members, prior to becoming a patient at PRHC, Freeman was unaware that the government doesn’t fund hospital equipment or technology. According to Dr. Jeyabalan, donor support is why the most generous communities have the best hospitals.
“The donors are the pillars of the hospital,” she says. “Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to offer our cancer program and we wouldn’t be able to call ourselves a centre of excellence.”
Digital pathology is just one of the current priority areas for the $60 million Campaign for PRHC which will help ensure the hospital continues to offer world-class care close to home.
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“The choice is ours and it’s up to us — you, me, our friends, family, and neighbours. If we don’t fund these essential tools, they simply won’t be there when we or our loved ones need them,” says Heighway.
“When donors give in support of something like digital pathology, it’s an act of shared belief in what we all deserve. It’s a donation that will truly reimagine healthcare — making it possible for the Foundation to provide those funds to the hospital and for PRHC to invest in state-of-the-art, life-changing or lifesaving technology.”
To learn more about fundraising for cancer care at PRHC and to make a donation, visit the PRHC Foundation website at prhcfoundation.ca or call 705-876-5000.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
Administered by the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes with funding from the City of Kawartha Lakes, the Social Sustainability Fund (SSF) is a new community grant program supporting grassroots, community-based initiatives across the Kawartha Lakes that address key social issues such as poverty reduction, housing stability, food security and nutrition, mental health and addictions, fair labour practices, and inclusive community-building. (Photo: Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes)
Applications are open until June 25 for a new grant program in the City of Kawartha Lakes supporting community projects that address key social issues.
Administered by the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes with funding from the City of Kawartha Lakes, the Social Sustainability Fund (SSF) is a new community grant program supporting grassroots, community-based initiatives across the Kawartha Lakes.
The SSF will provide one-time grants of up to $10,000 to eligible non-profit organizations that are undertaking projects with a focus on pressing social challenges. These challenges can include poverty reduction, housing stability, food security and nutrition, mental health and addictions, fair labour practices, and inclusive community-building.
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A total of $56,000 in grant money is available.
Carissa Ferguson-Paterson, grant and office administrator for the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes, shared more details with kawarthaNOW around the birth of the SSF.
“The impetus for the fund was to provide one-time seed money to support programs or initiatives that address poverty-related issues in the City of Kawartha Lakes,” Ferguson-Paterson said. “Specifically, it aims to alleviate poverty, increase community participation or connection, and create sustainable opportunities to improve quality of life.”
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Since 2007, the City of Kawartha Lakes had administered a Community Social Investment Fund to support community agencies with one-time seed money for programs or initiatives that addressed poverty-related issues within Kawartha Lakes.
In January, the municipality finalized a partnership agreement with the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes that includes three years of seed funding for the SSF “in support of a shift toward sustainable, community-led solutions,” according to a media release.
Ferguson-Paterson said the partnership with the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes allows the City of Kawartha Lakes to expand and sustain these efforts through the SSF, supporting both current and future community needs.
“The goal of the fund is to empower local non-profits and charitable organizations with flexible, responsive funding that allows them to meet emerging needs and drive lasting change,” she explained. “Our hope is that this investment becomes a catalyst for deeper community connections, stronger grassroots leadership, and long-term improvements to social infrastructure across the region.”
“The (SSF) is an opportunity to invest in the people and organizations driving meaningful change in our community,” shared Cheryl Faber, director of human services for the City of Kawartha Lakes, in a statement.
“Through this partnership with the Community Foundation, we’re supporting local leadership and building a stronger, more resilient Kawartha Lakes — now and for the future.”
Warkworth singer-songwriter Jonah McLean, who recently released his latest EP "You and Me", performs at Jethro's Bar + Stage in downtown Peterborough on Friday night. (Photo: Jonah McLean / Facebook)
Every Thursday, kawarthaNOW publishes live music events at pubs and restaurants in Peterborough and the greater Kawarthas region based on information that musicians provide directly or that venues post on their websites or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, June 12 to Wednesday, June 18.
If you’re a musician or venue owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, email our nightlifeNOW editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com. For concerts and live music events at other venues, check out our Concerts & Live Music page.
With the exception of karaoke, we only list events with performing musicians. Venues may also host other events during the week (e.g., dancing, DJs, comedy shows).
Peterborough Public Health closed beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead Park in Peterborough on July 14, 2023 due to possibly harmful blue-green algae blooms. The health unit has announced it will resume weekday testing of the beach's water quality as of June 12, 2025, reversing an earlier decision to stop testing. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
While there still won’t be lifeguards at Rogers Cove beach in Peterborough’s East City this summer, the water quality at the beach will continue to be tested.
That’s the word from the regional health unit, which has reversed its earlier decision to stop testing this summer after the City of Peterborough eliminated taxpayer-funded lifeguard services at the beach.
“Peterborough Public Health has confirmed that Rogers Cove will continue to be maintained as a public beach by the City of Peterborough; however, it will not be supervised,” the health unit stated in an email to kawarthaNOW. “Sampling of this beach will resume on June 12, 2025.”
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In prior years, the City of Peterborough has paid lifeguards to supervise the city’s two public beaches — one at Rogers Cove and the other at Beavermead Park — daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. from the last week of June to the end of August.
However, during its deliberations on the draft 2025 budget, city council decided to eliminate lifeguard services at Rogers Cove to save $40,000. However, the city will continue to provide lifeguard services at the more popular Beavermead Park beach.
Every summer, Peterborough Public Health has tested the water quality of the city’s two public beaches on a daily basis from Monday to Friday. After the city’s decision to eliminate lifeguard services at Rogers Cove, the health unit announced it would only perform weekday testing at Beavermead Park and not Rogers Cove — a decision that has now been reversed.
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With the exception of Rogers Cove, the health unit began testing water quality at public beaches in the city and county of Peterborough and Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations on June 2 to ensure the water quality conditions are safe for recreational use during swimming season. The first sample for Rogers Cove will be taken on Thursday (June 12).
The program will continue through to the end of August, with water at the city’s two public beaches samples on weekdays and the water at most public beaches in the county and two First Nations sampled at least once a week, with a few county beaches only sampled once a month. The health unit posts the results on its website.
Results take approximately 24 hours to be analyzed. If levels of bacteria exceed recommended thresholds for recreational water use, the beach will be posted as unsafe and to avoid becoming ill, people should not use the beach for swimming. If a significant risk to human health is identified, such as a toxic spill or the identification of a harmful algae bloom, a beach may be closed to the public.
Stay tuned to kawarthaNOW in June for The Beach Report™, our weekly report of the results of water quality testing at beaches in the greater Kawarthas region, including the city and county of Peterborough, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, Northumberland County, and Hastings County.
Bike Month 2025 is a great time to get out and enjoy Peterborough by bike. Jump on a trail or enjoy a roll down the bicycle priority section of Bethune Street, pictured here, which spans from McDonnel to Townsend streets. (Photo: Lili Paradi)
The month of June in each year is officially recognized as Ontario Bike Month — a time to celebrate all things to do with cycling through community engagement, education, and fun!
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Kala Leeder, Trent University Active Transportation Program Assistant, GreenUP.
Cycling has many benefits, not the least of which is healthier, more connected communities. It encourages regular exercise, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and decreases traffic congestion. It not only supports personal well-being, but also strengthens community relationships and enhances quality of life for residents.
Many activities are happening in Peterborough this month, and every type of cyclist — from beginner to bike connoisseur — can get involved and start pedalling.
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Pedal-powered fun for kids
Let’s Bike! cycling events (free)
Let’s Bike! are free drop-in events in Peterborough and Norwood for kids and families offering a variety of fun and educational stations. Children can learn about bike equipment, safety and handling skills, and have an opportunity to decorate their bikes, win exciting prizes, and more. Families can RSVP online or simply drop-in.
Let’s Bike! Peterborough take place on Tuesday, June 17, from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Balsillie Family YMCA at 123 Aylmer Street South. RSVP at letsbikeptbo25.eventbrite.ca.
Let’s Bike! Norwood takes place on Wednesday, June 25, from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre at 88 Alma Street. RSVP at letsbikenorwood25.eventbrite.ca.
GreenUP cycling instructor Maxim Tandon helps a new rider with build confidence at a Let’s Bike! pop-up in 2024. These free events offer bike check-ups, opportunity to practice cycling skills, and to try out a bike playground. The 2025 Let’s Bike! events happen from 3:30 to 7 p.m. in Peterborough at the YMCA on June 17, and at the Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre in Norwood on June 25. (Photo: Jessica Todd / GreenUP)
GreenUP Summer Ride Club (free)
Join GreenUP’s annual Summer Ride Club, a fun self-directed series of challenges to encourage cycling for young riders and their families all summer long.
Participants complete nine unique challenges designed to help them explore the city by bike and document their progress in their Summer Ride Club passport. Those who submit their passports before the end-of-summer deadline have a chance to win a grand prize gift card to a local bike shop, and runner up bike-themed gift bags.
The 2025 Summer Ride Club kicks off at Quaker Foods City Square at 215 Charlotte Street in Peterborough on Thursday, June 26.
At this event, or anytime through the summer, families can register riders to unlock a weekly newsletter, prize draws, and an invite to the end-of-summer celebration. Passports can be picked up at GreenUP (378 Alymer Street North) or B!KE: The Peterborough Community Bike Shop (293 George Street).
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GreenUP Urban Bike Adventures summer camp (fees apply)
Based in downtown Peterborough at GreenUP’s Aylmer Street location, campers aged nine to 12 meet and explore the city by bike. This full-day roaming camp is infused with opportunities for fun, friendship, education, and climate action.
Under the guidance of trained cycling educators, campers build bike skills through Canada’s HopOn Curriculum — a games-based program that teaches the joys of cycling safely. GreenUP offers seven weeks of this camp in 2025. Register at greenup.on.ca/camp-programs/.
The Peterborough Cycling Club’s Dirt Squad Program teaches youth aged six to 17 how to safely and skillfully navigate mountain-biking terrain. The program builds riding confidence, develops technical skills, and fosters a love for outdoor adventure. (Photo: Peterborough Cycling Club)
Peterborough Cycling Club Dirt Squad and Race Team programs (fees apply)
The Dirt Squad Program offered by the Peterborough Cycling Club (PCC) teaches youth aged six to 17 how to safely and skillfully navigate mountain-biking terrain. The program builds riding confidence, develops technical skills, and fosters a love for outdoor adventure.
The PCC also offers competitive youth riders the opportunity to train for mountain bike races through their Race Team program, developing advanced skills for challenging terrain. This program is ideal for riders looking to take their cycling to the next level.
Peterborough Canada Day Parade and bike decorating competition (free)
Just one day after Bike Month ends, families are invited to “Roll, Stroll and Celebrate” at Peterborough’s family-friendly Canada Day celebration taking place on Tuesday, July 1. Join a community ride and a bike decorating contest, taking place at 10:45 a.m. at City Hall at 500 George Street North.
Bike Month Adventures for Grown-Ups
Peterborough Cycling Club recreational and competitive rides (fees apply)
Join the Peterborough Cycling Club for a variety of rides throughout the summer months. Whether new to group rides or an experienced cyclist, there’s a ride for everyone.
Recreational riders can choose from six skill levels starting with level one for beginners new to group riding and progressing up to level six for seasoned cyclists. Competitive drop rides are designed for those with experience in fast-paced group cycling.
B!KE: The Peterborough Community Cycling Hub is hosting a summer solstice glow ride on June 20, 2025. After meeting at Quaker Foods City Square, participants will bike to Beavermead Beach for an hour of partying, music, games, and sparklers. Once the sun has set over the beach, cyclists will get their glow on and make a loop around downtown, finishing back at Quaker City Square. (Photo courtesy of B!KE)
Glow Rides with B!KE (free)
Celebrate the summer solstice on two wheels with B!KE: The Peterborough Community Cycling Hub. Meet at Quaker Foods City Square at 215 Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough at 8 p.m. Friday, June 20 for a magical evening ride to Beavermead Park.
Enjoy sunsets, sparklers, and community fun into the night. Follow @communitybikeshop on social media for more dates to come.
Sign up for the Pedal Poll, Canada’s national bike count (free)
Prefer to support Bike Month on foot? Help make a national impact by signing up for the Pedal Poll, Canada’s national bicycle count. By dedicating just two hours between June 3 and 8 to count bike riders in Peterborough, volunteers can contribute valuable data to improve cycling infrastructure across Canada. Register at velocanadabikes.org/pedalpoll.
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Organizers hope these events inspire everyone to get involved and enjoy all that Peterborough has to offer during Bike Month.
It’s the perfect time to take advantage of the June weather, get outside, and start rolling.
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