The Peterborough Examiner

Fun run and walk is for the birds

Fundraisin­g events are routed through the scenic grounds of the Riverview Park and Zoo

- CAROLINE MCCONNELL CAROLINE MCCONNELL IS A FREELANCE CONTRIBUTO­R TO THE EXAMINER.

“Riverview Park and Zoo annual Fun Run and Walk is ‘for the birds’,” said Mary Kate Whibbs, programs and operations supervisor for the zoo, in a recent email.

And she meant that literally.

“This event is a vital fundraiser for the zoo and this year proceeds will support improvemen­ts to our aviary exhibits,” said Whibbs. “The zoo is home to many bird species, big and small, including emu, sun conures, peafowl, golden pheasants and more.”

The Fun Run and Walk happens Saturday, June 29 and registrati­on is now open, giving registrant­s lots of time to prepare and fundraise.

The one- and five-kilometre run and walk events are routed through the scenic grounds of the zoo, beginning and ending at the gazebo.

Registrati­on takes place on race day at the Rotary Education Centre from 7 until 8 a.m. and a yoga team will lead racers in a group warmup at the gazebo at 8:10 a.m.

Light snacks of apples and granola bars will be provided post-race. Coffee will be available and there will be a water wagon to refill reusable water bottles. Washrooms and parking are available on site but are limited. Consider carpooling and plan to arrive early to reduce washroom lineups.

Costumes are strongly encouraged on race day. Why not get creative and dress up like a bird or another animal — perhaps a speedy one? There will be prizes for best costume, top three fundraiser­s, and top racers in the one- and five-km categories.

A specially designed bird-themed neck gaiter will be available for purchase on race day with proceeds also supporting aviary improvemen­ts.

Can’t make the race? Consider supporting an individual, a team, or just make a general donation.

“Help us reach our fundraisin­g goal of $10,000 and register today,” says Whibbs.

Registrati­on is $30 until June 1 and includes the cost of a race medal. Register or make a donation by visiting RiverviewP­arkZooFunR­unandWalk.itsyourrac­e.com.

Baby needs

Yes Shelter for Youth and Families is currently helping several parents with babies who are experienci­ng or are at-risk of homelessne­ss. The shelter is looking for donations for some baby essentials that are presently in short supply and are crucial for the babies’ well-being.

Donations needed include easy digestion baby formula powder for up to 12 months; size 4 and 5 pull-ups for both boys and girls; size 4,5 and 6 diapers; and baby wipes.

Donations should be unopened and before expiry and can be dropped off at the shelter, located at 96 Brock St. (across from FreshCo). Please note that the shelter is not in need of baby clothing or toys and can’t accept donations of used items.

Yes is a non-profit organizati­on that helps youth and families in Peterborou­gh by providing shelter, education and housing supports.

You can also make a monetary donation or select items from the shelter’s Amazon wish list. Visit yesshelter.ca/help/help-yes.

Smile Cookies

Tim Hortons Smile Cookies are back and Community Care Peterborou­gh has been selected again by Tim Hortons to receive the proceeds from all city of Peterborou­gh, Lakefield, Curve Lake, Bridgenort­h, and Havelock Tim Hortons locations during the Smile Cookie campaign that takes place April 29 to May 5.

Each cookie costs $2 and Community Care Peterborou­gh receives 100 per cent of the cookie sales.

Smile cookies can be preordered, by the dozen or more. You can also use the Tim Hortons app, Uber Eats, Door Dash or Skip the Dishes to see if your Smile cookies can be delivered to you.

Volunteers are needed for the campaign, both to help decorate the cookies and to be an ambassador for Community Care at one of the Tim Hortons locations.

To sign up to volunteer or to access the preorder Smile Cookie form, visit commcarept­bo.org/smilecooki­e.

 ?? RIVERVIEW PARK AND ZOO PHOTO ?? Proceeds from this year’s Riverview Park and Zoo’s Fun Run and Walk will go to support improvemen­ts to the zoo’s aviary exhibits, home to several species, including these peafowls.
RIVERVIEW PARK AND ZOO PHOTO Proceeds from this year’s Riverview Park and Zoo’s Fun Run and Walk will go to support improvemen­ts to the zoo’s aviary exhibits, home to several species, including these peafowls.
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