SPORTS

Local stars shine at PJHL All-Star Game in Campbellford

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard Local junior hockey talent took centre ice, Sunday, January 11th, as players from Uxbridge, Port Perry, and Little Britain showcased their skills at the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s (PJHL) annual All-Star Game. This season, the PJHL hosted four all-star games: East, West, North, and South Conferences, each offering home-ice advantage in the provincial quarterfinals. In Trent Hills, the Orr Division faced off against the Tod Division, with the T

Scugog Sports Hall of Fame announces 2026 inductees

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard SCUGOG: A celebration of local athletic achievement and community pride will take centre stage this spring, as the Scugog Sports Hall of Fame (SHOF) prepares to welcome its newest class of inductees. The Hall of Fame’s 18th annual induction ceremony will be held, on Thursday, April 23rd, at the Scugog Community Recreation Centre, bringing together athletes, coaches, families and fans, to honour those who ha

Winter tradition glides back into town at Port Perry’s Lakefront Skate

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard SCUGOG: With winter settling in, along the shores of Lake Scugog, a favourite seasonal attraction is once again welcoming skaters of all ages. Lakefront Skate, in Port Perry, is officially open, offering free outdoor skating seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., at Joe Fowler North Diamond, located next to Palmer Park. The rink, part of the Lakefront Skate and Market area, is designed to be a fun, inc

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A sparkling holiday tradition shines again at Ken Reid Conservation Area

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard KAWARTHA LAKES: The wonder of the holiday season will light up Ken Reid Conservation Area, near Lindsay, once again, as The Illuminated Forest returns for its fourth year. From Friday, December 12th to Sunday, December 28th, visitors can wander through trails adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a winter wonderland for the whole family. Since it first opened in 2022, The Illuminated Forest has

A Rock Concert in Port Perry Featuring The Bomb Retro ‘80s Live Experience!

Rob Van Der Vleuten The Standard SCUGOG: On Saturday, December 13th, The Bomb and their touring ‘Retro ‘80s Live Experience’ are continuing their tradition of blowing up everyone’s winter blues & wrapping up a full year of touring with some exciting pre-holiday musical cheer at Port Perry’s 1873 Town Hall Theatre! For fans of ‘80s hits (and the decade of new wave) who have not had the opportunity to enjoy a rocking night with The Bomb before; just imagine one band recorded a

The Artist Within - “Christmas Happenings”

by Lauren Walker It seems Christmas is coming quickly! I am so happy to share my latest happenings, as its been a busy few months. Christmas Ornaments It is that time of year, and my 2025 Christmas Ornament, “The Place to Meet for a Christmas Treat,” featuring Hanks Pastries, has already sold out. I currently have two designs available, so please check my Facebook page for more information. Santa’s Float Fundraiser I’ve partnered with the North Durham Chamber and my design, “

SHORELINES

Zephyr & Sandford News

By Pat Asling Now that 2026 is underway, things seem to have slowed down a little, but this is likely just a brief pause. After the holiday rush and a bit of overindulgence, people are catching their breath. Before long, lunches, meetings, and events will be back in full swing, and life will feel busy once again. I hope everyone is carrying good memories from the 2025 Christmas season and the start of the new year. Sadly, the world has entered 2026 in a time of great turmoil.

Epsom & Utica News

by Faye Ashton I hope everyone is keeping well and managing to avoid the flu bug that seems to be making its way around in many different forms this season. A little bird shared some happy news: Jeannie Ranken will be celebrating 75 years young on Tuesday. Warm birthday wishes to Jeannie from her many friends throughout the community. Best wishes as well to anyone marking a January birthday or anniversary. May your celebrations create special memories to cherish all year long

Cannington & Beaverton News

By Patricia Dawson Residents are invited to step out and enjoy some lively country line dancing in Cannington at the Cannington Legion Community Health Center. Instructor-led sessions are held at the Legion, located at 72 Peace Street, on Monday mornings from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. These classes are open to both new and experienced dancers and feature a fun mix of country favourites and Top 40 hits. For those looking to try something different, Drumming for Health will take place

HEALTH, FITNESS, SENIOR LIVING COLUMNS

Movement for Life - Vertigo

by Lauren Walker Would you believe I had my very first experience with vertigo when I was thirty and again five years ago. No, this isn’t just an age related problem but it can be scary, if you’ve never experienced it before. I worked with a client today and, she is currently having to manage symptoms for the first time. At 75, it was obvious she was feeling uneasy. Exercise is an important help to manage symptoms but where do you start? Take a Moment There are varying levels

We all need an advocate

by Tina Y. Gerber – McCurley We all carry so much in this busy world, and there are so many changes expected for seniors in 2026. Are you ready? I often wonder what we are chasing. It’s easy to be swayed by what we see on social media. I hope you understand what you often see is not reality! Struggles are a common experience in this life, whether you are 35 or 85, so the experiences of older people can be very relatable. Consequently, it may be mutually beneficial to check on

RMH Welcomes New Year’s Baby on January 1st

RYAN YOUNG RMH KAWARTHA LAKES: Ross Memorial Hospital’s Dr. Gargi Bhatia Family Birthing Centre delivered its first baby of 2026 at 8:47 p.m. on January 1st. Little baby Theo was born to parents Jessie and Mathew, weighing 7 pounds, 1 ounce and measuring 21 inches long. The timing of Theo’s arrival came as a surprise to the new parents. “We were not anticipating this as his due date wasn’t for a few more weeks,” explained Jessie. “We had friends over the night before and wok