LeveLs of Governments and their roLes source Legislative assembly of ontario
federaL
Located in ottawa, the nation’s capital, the federal government is responsible for issues that affect Canada as a whole country such as international relations, immigration, criminal law, taxes, national defence, and foreign policy.
the federal parliament includes the house of Commonscomprised of 338 members of Parliament or mPs from every province and territory, the senate - comprised of senators appointed by the Prime minister, and the monarch represented by the Governor General. the political party that elects the most mPs forms the federal government. their leader becomes the head of the federal government - the Prime minister.
ProvinCiaL
Located in ontario’s capital, toronto, the provincial government is responsible for issues that affect the province as a whole. these include education, health care, the environment, agriculture and highways.
ontario’s parliament consists of 124 elected representatives called members of Provincial Parliament (mPPs) elected from across the province, and the monarch represented by the Lieutenant Governor of ontario. each mPP represents a geographical area of the province called a riding. the political party with the most mPPs forms the provincial government. their leader becomes the Premier and they are the head of the provincial government.
muniCiPaL
the municipal government receives its power from the provincial government. the city or town council decides on by-laws that deal with issues concerning their community such as public parks, libraries, social services, local police and fire services, garbage removal, recycling, and public transportation. municipal governments are led by mayors in cities and towns and reeves in villages and townships.
76 King St West., P.O. Box 535
Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0
info@thepromoter.ca
www.thepromoter.ca
TEL.: 705-738-6188
Covering the Kawartha Lakes Area
Publisher/Director/Manager
Max Miller
Editor
Deb Crossen
Art Director
Max Miller
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City Hall pg. 4
Crossword pg. 10
Horoscope pg. 11
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Classifieds pg. 13
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over the BaCK fenCe
Deep breath, folks, we’re almost at the end of this winter! With the clocks moving forward this weekend, we can start looking forward to outdoor bbqs, gardens, patio parties and not wearing layers of clothes just to check the mail!
In the next few days, according to our weather forecasters, we’re going to have some warmer daytime temperatures which means a lot of this white stuff is going to melt. That’s a good thing, right? Let’s hope it’s a slow melt that doesn’t cause flooding! I like looking out my back door to see the huge piles dwindle away. But we know the weather can change quickly ... and I really hesitate to say anything about it almost being over. I did that last year and the ice storm made mincemeat of my predictions! So for now, let’s just keep our fingers crossed!
Can you believe it’s been six years since the COVID-19 pandemic?
Of course, since then, the conspiracy theorists claim that it wasn’t that bad or that it was a global hoax. No matter what you believe, millions of people
died from complications.
The lessons learned by government and health officials during the pandemic will lead us to be better prepared if, and when, another disease outbreak hits. Experts say it’s only a matter of time, but with most countries on higher alert to the spread of disease, we can only hope it’s a long time away.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games start this week until March 15. Canada has sent a team of 50 athletes to compete in para alpine skiing, para ice hockey, para nordic skiing, para snowboard and wheelchair curling. Twenty-one medallists from the Beijing 2022 Olympic team will be returning, so our chances of getting some medals is good. No matter what, though, these athletes have prepared and are ready to represent. Let’s take some time out to watch these athletes compete for our country! Go Canada Go!
Here at home, please remember that local organizations need our support as volunteers and attendees at their events. Keep smiling ... and be kind!
editor@thepromoter.ca
Photo: Deb Crossen
The Kawartha
Community News
City Hall
onLine PortaL for CitY Permits
Whether it’s pet licenses, burn permits and fireworks permits, you can now go online to get them. Kawartha Lakes has launched an improved online registration portal that makes it faster and easier for residents to manage their municipal service applications.
The new portal, Cityworks, with a link through www.kawarthalakes.ca, provides a simpler, more convenient way for residents to submit applications and keep their details up-to-date. Through the portal, users can:
• Create a secure online account
• Update their information
• Upload supporting documents
• Check their application status
• Make their payments using debit or credit cards
Please note that cash payments are no longer accepted.
These changes help make the licensing process faster and more secure. In addition to pet licensing, you can also apply for burn permits and fireworks permits through the portal, with more applications being added throughout the year.
CurBside BatterY CoLLeCtion
The City of Kawartha Lakes will be collecting your used batteries curbside from March 16 to 19 on your regularly scheduled collection day.
To dispose of them properly, place used and old batteries inside a clear, resealable bag (Ziploc or similar) and leave it visible to collectors beside your waste when you place it curbside by 7am. Do not place the bag on your recycling bin.
Details here on what’s acceptable and what’s not can be found on the City’s website at www. kawarthalakes.ca.
starter ComPanY PLus aPPLiCations noW oPen
Calling all artists, makers, service pros, tradespeople, retailers, repair experts, and dreamers ready to turn passion into profit!
Spring is the season of fresh starts, and there’s no better time to launch or grow your business. We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the Kawartha lakes Spring 2026 Starter Company PLUS cohort , this program is designed to help entrepreneurs build, launch, and scale successful small businesses.
Whether you’re an artist ready to sell your work, a skilled tradesperson going out on your own or a repair specialist solving everyday problems, Starter Company PLUS will help you take the next step.
Participants receive expert-led business training
workshops, one-on-one mentoring, support for business plans and financial planning, access to local resources and networks as well as a grant of up to $5,000.
“Our program participants are always full of incredible energy and fresh ideas,” says Sandy Greenberg EDO of Small Business Programs. “We love helping local entrepreneurs turn their skills and passions into thriving businesses.”
The application deadline is April 2. You can find out all the information at www.kawarthalakes.ca.
marCh events at the Burnt river CommunitY Centre
Submitted by Terry Blackmore
• Our outdoor rink is still open for now open, for now. Weather permitting it will be open every day. There is no organized schedule for the rink, please follow the rules and share the ice surface. Please check the Burnt River FaceBook page for the latest info on closings.
• Mark your calendar for our annual easter egg hunt Saturday April 4 from 11am to 1pm
• Pickleball has become a very popular sport. Our indoor court is available 7 days a week from 6am to 11:30pm, except for scheduled weekly/monthly activities or banquet rental. To inquire about booking a court please email burntroverbookings@ gmail.com or call 705-454-2194.
• Mondays & Fridays – 9:30am to 10:30am – sage’s exercises - Call Pat 705-454-8018
• Tuesdays from 10am to 4pm - Craft sewing Group - Call Trudy 705-454-2175 or Wendy 705- 4548878
• Thursdays – 7pm – darts - Email Tony at thebloch7gmail.com
• 3rd Thursday of the Month – 12:30pm – diners dinner. Reservations needed, limited to 60 people. Call Community Care to make a reservation 705324-7323 ext 654
• 2nd Wednesday of the Month – 10am - Burnt river Community Centre volunteer management Board
To book the Burnt River Community Centre for your function, email burntriverbookings@gmail.com or call 705-454-2194.
Follow us on Facebook @BurntRiverOntario
home & CottaGe shoW returns
The largest showcase for home renovations and planning in the Kawarthas is back on March 28 and 29 at the Lindsay Fairgrounds.
Stop by to see more than 140 exhibitors featuring home renovation experts and vendors. Admission is free with a donation to Kawartha Lakes Food Source. The show runs from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, March 28 and 10am to 3pm on Sunday, March 29.
marCh BreaK adventures
Gamiing Nature Centre in Bobcaygeon is hosting March Break Adventures for the kids from March 16 to 20.
Children aged 6 to 12 are invited to attend from 9am to 3pm. The cost is $250 per child with a sibling added for $225.
You can request an information and registration package by emailing info@gamiing.org.
emPties heLP Kids and Pets
The Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kawartha Lakes - Haliburton are teaming up to collect your empty alcohol bottles and cans. Every return helps support local animals in need and local youth who benefit from mentorship programs right here in Kawartha Lakes.
Drop off your empties at The Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes at 107 McLaughlin Road in Lindsay. Challenge your friends, your family and your neighbourhood to fill a few bags that will have a positive impact on our community!
What’s uP at the BCC
The Buckhorn Community Centre is hopping with activities for all ages. Here’s what’s coming up:
• march 7 – Seedy Saturday Seed Swap – Bring your garden seeds and all the info for an exchange with other gardeners from 10:30am to 11:30am.
• march 13 – Happy Hour – Come and get social to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Music by the Buckhorn Jammers. No admission fee for this age-of-majority event. A full St. Patty’s dinner is available for purchase for $15. Please call 705-657-8833 to reserve your spot.
• april 15 to may 20 – Align your positive energy with Meditation and Mindfulness on Wednesdays from 3:30pm to 4:30pm with Instructor Julie Humphries. $50 for BCC members and $62 for non-members
• may 6 – Food Handler’s Certification –Peterborough Public Health leads this free certification course from 9am to 4pm. You must reserve your spot by calling 705-657-8833.
• may 25 to June 29 – Fun Soccer Skills Clinic – Sign the kids aged 5 to 10 up to learn soccer skills from Olympian Robin MeGraw in a fun environment. Monday evenings from 5pm to 6pm. The cost is only $30 per child. Call Meghan at 705-657-8833 to register.
ChanGes at the ChamBer
After five years, there will be a change at the helm of the Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce. Debra Kemp, who has been the president, is stepping down and handing over to Heather Cousineau, General Manager at Aspira Retirement Residence.
In an email, Debra said, “I am deeply grateful for the support, collaboration, and encouragement from our members and Board during my time in this role. Together, we’ve seen many positive changes and growth, and I’m proud of what we’ve built. I’m pleased to remain involved as Past President and will continue supporting the Chamber as we move forward.
“Heather brings with her not only fresh energy and dedication, but also a deep-rooted love for Bobcaygeon and a strong commitment to our local businesses and community. I hope you’ll join me in offering her your full support as she steps into this leadership role.”
Incoming President, Heather Cousineau said, “I am honoured to step into the role of President of the Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce. Born and raised right here in Bobcaygeon, I’ve always believed in the strength, spirit, and resilience of our community. This town helped shape who I am, and it’s a privilege to give back in a meaningful way.
“Community events, supporting local businesses, and encouraging business development are vital to keeping Bobcaygeon thriving. I am committed to working closely with our many dedicated community groups, partners, and organizations to create opportunities that strengthen our local economy and enhance the experiences that bring residents and visitors together.
“In my role as General Manager at Aspira Retirement Residence, I have the pleasure of attending, supporting, and creating many community events, and I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration enriches us all. I believe true community leadership means taking an active role in sharing information, fostering connections, and ensuring our businesses have what they need to grow and succeed.”
tastY fundraiser
The Omemee Community Fund and Kawartha Community Foundation are teaming up with Texas Burger and PD Realty in Omemee for a tasty fundraiser. Texas Burger in Omemee will donate $1 from
every burger sold in the month of March and PD Realty will match them to raise money for the Omemee Splash Pad Fundraising Campaign.
Other businesses are being encouraged to consider matching the Buck-a-Burger donation but you can get out to support and get a tasty dinner at the same time!
BunnY Bash at Case manor
The Easter Bunny’s headed to Case Manor in Bobcaygeon on Saturday, March 28 for their annual Bunny Bash from 10am to 12 noon.
Bring the little ones for live bunny petting, cotton candy, games, activities and more for the whole family.
Case Manor is located at 28 Boyd Street in Bobcaygeon.
easter Bunnies in the ParK
Kawartha Lakes Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Revel Realty Inc., Brokerage Kawartha Lakes and Kawartha Lakes Public Library are excited to host Easter in the Park at Victoria Park Armoury in Lindsay on Saturday March 28.
This free, fun-filled family event will feature two entry times, various craft stations, storytime, an Egg Hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny, games and much more. All registered participants will receive a fun and festive take-home goodie bag courtesy of event partners and Crayola.
In lieu of a registration fee, we ask that participants bring a non-perishable food donation in support of Kawartha Lakes Food Source.
Registration is now open. To learn more and to register please use the designated links at www. kawarthalakes.ca. Limited space is available and preregistration is required for all children attending this event (adults do not need to register).
seniors heaLth & WeLLness
Aspira Kawartha Lakes Retirement Living belives in helping seniors stay healthy and active. They’re hosting the 3rd annual Seniors Health and Wellness Day on Wednesday, March 25 from 10am to 3pm.
There will be a range of wellness activities, informative sessions and health screenings from vendors, including
• 10:30am – Falls Prevention – Karla Enns, Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes
• 11:00am – Fire Prevention – Kate Dukelow, Fire Prevention Public Education
• 1pm – Fraud Prevention – Jacob Daynes, Constable, OPP
There are more than 24 exhibitors who will be available to answer your questions and help you on your way to better living.
Lunch and beverages will be provided from 11:30am to 1pm. Donations to the Food Bank are welcome. The event takes place at 60 West Street in Bobcaygeon.
more daYLiGht, PLease
Benajmin Franklin said, “early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.” As we switch our clocks forward an hour on Sunday, March 8, many of us will at least be happier to see another hour of daylight!
A few years ago, Ontario’s government was looking at a move to keep the clocks at the same daylight saving time year round. They even went so far as to table legislation, but the change hinged on the adoption from Quebec and New York State. This week, British Columbia made that move, adopting a permanent year-round daylight saving time. So for now, before you go to bed on Saturday night, move the numbers ahead one hour on your clocks, stove, microwave and any other devices that don’t change themselves.
We’re also reminded by our fire department friends that this is a good time to change out the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
BuCKhorn art fest named to toP 100
The Buckhorn Festival of the Arts, held annually at the Buckhorn Community Centre, has a reputation within the art community and with thousands of visitors as one of the best art festivals in the Kawarthas. Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) agrees.
The industry organization has named the Buckhorn Festival of the Arts as one of the Top 100 Festivals and Events in the province.
FEO organizers said, “These Top 100 recipients represent festivals and events that excel within the industry. Submissions from FEO members were received for consideration in the fall of 2025 and were judged by an independent panel of judges. Festivals and events of all kinds from every corner of Ontario were represented in the submissions – from community festivals to internationally recognized events.”
Meghan Arnott, Director of the Buckhorn Festival of the Arts at the BCC, said, “We are proud to be named one of the Top 100 Festivals again this year. The festival heads into its 50th anniversary next year. We appreciate all the support from artists, our amazing volunteers and the visitors who help to make this event so special. Thank you to FEO for the honour.”
The 2026 Buckhorn Festival of the Arts takes place August 15 and 16. Visit www. buckhorncommunitycentre.com for more information about this and other events.
find out aBout fundinG
Organizations from Kawartha Lakes and surrounding areas are invited to attend the upcoming Kawartha Lakes Funders Forum to explore funding opportunities and connect directly with program representatives. The event takes place Thursday, April 9 from 8:30am to 12:30pm at the Victoria Park Armoury
in Lindsay.
Focused on supporting communities, Indigenous partners, non-profits, arts and culture organizations, economic development stakeholders, and local businesses, this free event provides a valuable opportunity to learn about funding programs available at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels.
Kawartha Lakes Funders Forum will be hosted by Kawartha Lakes Economic Development, in partnership with the Ontario Government.
The Forum will provide direct access to representatives from a range of funding organizations who will share details about their programs. During a structured “funder overview” session, each presenter will deliver a brief introduction to their respective programs and priorities. The funder representatives will be from:
• Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)
• Province of Ontario – including the Ministry of Rural Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness
• City of Kawartha Lakes
• Community Futures Eastern Ontario
• Launch Kawartha
• Ontario Centre of Innovation
• Additional regional and sector partners
The Forum will also feature two keynote
• Eric Smeaton, Kawartha Lakes Community Foundation, presenting insights from the recently completed Vital Signs report
• Kirsten Scott, Springboard Grant Writing, speaking to best practices for strong and competitive funding applications
Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to connect one-on-one with funders during a networking session to ask specific questions, explore eligibility criteria, discuss timelines, and gather tailored information about available supports. Register online through www.kawarthalakes.ca to reserve your spot.
fLoodinG PossiBLe
Otonabee Conservation is carefully watching water levels across the area as forecasted warm temperatures and rainfall over the coming week, combined with an above-average snowpack, are expected to produce substantial runoff. This may lead to rapidly rising water levels and flows in local watercourses, increasing the potential for flooding.
Flooding along the Trent–Severn Waterway is not expected. Water levels in the Kawartha Lakes, Otonabee River, and Rice Lake have already been lowered to make room for runoff from the expected rain and melting snow.
Residents are reminded to stay away from shorelines, and off the ice due to unsafe conditions. You can subscribe at www.otonabeeconservation.com to receive updates.
1 Tip, as one's hat (4) 3 Number in an apartment block (4) 6 *Number of winks needed (5) 10 Refined male (9)
11 A favourite start word for many Wordle players (5)
*Start the wooden planks with an S (7)
*Words for an informal rest (4,3)
Phone or computer symbol (4)
Figure in a public square (6)
Clear the ___ (3)
*Short respite (3) 22 Perennial herb with white flowers (6) 23 Shed tears (4) 25 Option at the barbershop (7) 27 Contents of 26 down perhaps (7)
Create a law (5)
30 The ordinary people (maybe from Ohio) (3,6) 31 Old-fashioned verse (5)
32 Leaf gatherer (4)
33 *Light version of 25 down 4)
1 Stomach process (9) 2 Melted in Marseille (5) 4 Top of a fraction (9) 5 Useful barbecue tool (5) 6 Parts of the face or newspaper articles (8) 7 Repeat once again (9)
8 More than just you, informally (5) 9 Suspects defence if airtight (5) 15 Home without parents (9) 17 Hors d'oeuvre holder (9) 19 Disgusting to see (9) 20 Sincere compassion (8) 24 Home for arriving messages (5)
25 * Word before "perchance to dream" (Hamlet) (5)
26 On the ___ hand (5)
28 Book made of folded sheets (5)
Horoscopes
aquarius (Jan 21 to feb. 19) Be gentle on yourself, Aquarius, as you pass the coming days. Put hurts behind you; forgive yourself for the wrongs you have committed while doing your best at the time; open your heart and let peace enter.
Pisces (feb. 20 to march 20) Curiosity is a wonderful thing, Pisces, showing a keen interest in the world around you and a desire to learn. If you do not already consider yourself a curious person, try to develop this trait. Discover the wonderment that is everywhere.
aries (mar 21 to april 20) Aries, now is a good time to make connections – at work or in the community. You will encounter lots of chances to build bridges where it counts, and reap the benefits!
taurus (april 21 to may 21) Don’t allow your emotions to overpower your intelligence during this phase, Taurus. You will need to think rationally, using logic and coherence in circumstances that arise.
Gemini (may 22 to June 22) “All things are ready, if our mind be so.”: William Shakespeare. Gemini, nothing can stop you if you are prepared, organized ... and willing!
Cancer (June 23 to July 23) Yes, Cancer, there is still lots of snow out there, but fear not! Spring is just around the corner. What are your plans? It’s a season of new beginnings and fresh ideas, so start thinking!
Leo (July 24 to aug. 23) Make health a priority, dear Leo. Do all the things you know you should do to make you healthy, wealthy and wise. Don’t put off that new diet or that daily walk around the block. Take care of yourself!
virgo (aug. 24 to sept. 23) You may feel pulled in different directions by numerous distractions in the coming days, Virgo. Keep your mind sharp, stay focused and in the present.
Libra (sept. 24 to oct. 23) Libra, are you always ready with a quick reply whenever someone says something? It might be better to really listen to what the person is saying and try to understand that rather than jumping right in.
scorpio (oct. 24 to nov. 22) Scorpio, try not to take things too seriously. When you do, you miss out on the good things in life that are worth encountering. Laugh, be silly, and experience joy!
sagittarius (nov. 23 to dec. 21) Hope is a precious thing, dear Sagittarius, and no one can take it away from you. Cling to it all you want, in good times and bad times. It will serve you well.
Capricorn (dec. 22 to Jan. 20) This is no time to carry a grudge, dear Cap. The longer it lasts the longer it takes to reconcile. Estrangement will set in – and no one wants that. Reach out today!
Reach the people who visit The Kawartha Promoter online!
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ADVERTISING PRI c ING
Classifieds
event
$17 per 20 words per 2 weeks
st. andreW’s PresBYterian ChurCh 54 Bolsover rd. Bolsover, on. In church Services start at 10:00 a.m.
Sundays
All Welcome and for further information please call 705 426-9382 Bolsover Pines seniors Club - 50+ 16 Bolsover rd. Community Centre Bolsover NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME. Regular Weekly events unless above noted changes Membership is $10 (good until May 2023) with weekly games for $3 per day.
reGuLar WeeKLY Games: Tuesdays 1:00 p.m. Euchre Wednesday 1:00 p.m. drop in with Darts, Thursday 1:00 p.m. Bridge Tea and Coffee served at half time
except Wednesdays. Doors open at 12:30 p.m.
Come and enjoy a fun afternoon with a great bunch and help keep this community centre open.Please check our web page https:// bolsoverseniors.life or on Facebook.
saGes GentLe eXerCises for seniors - (saGes) Thursdays 9:30a.m. Kirkfield Lions Club 973 Portage Rd \hwy 48 (left entrance of building) Kirkfield, Cost $3 per class THURSDAY at 9:30 AM.
Program is geared for older adults and can be done sitting or standing The exercises focus on improving cardiovascular endurance, balance, muscle strength and flexibility. Come join the fun For more info 705-324-7323 ext 186 or info@ccckl.ca
nathan’s handYman serviCes
Carpentry, flooring, drywall, painting, eavestrough clearing, dump runs, and demolition. Now booking spring projects. 705-731-9373
