Trent University Breaks Ground On Its Latest College, Gidigaa Migizi

Trent University has officially broken ground on Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College residence as staff and faculty celebrated the occasion on Thursday afternoon.

Staff and faculty head the groundbreaking ceremony of Gidigaa Migizi College just behind Otonabee College. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The new college is considered one of the largest infrastructure developments for both the University and the Peterborough area since Trent’s founding in 1964. 

“We are about to embark on a defining chapter at Trent University,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee residence will offer modern, inclusive spaces where students live, learn, and form lasting connections. It’s our most ambitious campus project yet. This new project will contribute tremendously to Trent’s vibrant learning and living environment.”

Gidigaa Migizi College is projected to open in the fall of 2028. It covers 700,000 square feet and is situated on the East Bank of the Symons Campus.

According to a press release, Trent University’s Housing Strategy, approved by the Board in 2019, is a long-term plan to modernize on- and off-campus housing, improve its accessibility, support the University’s growth and the City’s housing needs.

Trent is positioned to contribute up to 32 per cent of the City housing target of 4,700 new homes by 2031, through the addition of 1,300 beds between Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee residence, as well as other strategic and creative housing solutions, including the addition of a 224-bed long-term care home on campus.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks a major milestone in our journey to create a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable campus,” said Tariq Al-idrissi, Trent vice-president of finance and administration. “These buildings will meet the needs of a growing student body while reflecting Trent’s vision for education and community placemaking.”

@ptbo_canada Trent University has officially broken ground on Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College residence. #ptbocanada #ptbo #peterborough #journalism #journalist #news #fyp #education ♬ Rockin - Chris Alan Lee

Gidigaa Migizi College is named in honour of the late Elder, alumnus, and professor Doug William. The professor, elder, and community leader was known for his dedication to Trent students and for protecting Anishinaabe's treaty rights.

The decision to select an Anishinaabe name for the new college was a recommendation of the University’s Champlain Report to honour the treaty and traditional territory on which Trent University sits. Meaning ‘spotted eagle’ in English, the name Gidigaa Migizi College was recommended by the University’s Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers Council and approved by Trent’s Board of Governors.

The new residence will house more than 600 beds and include indoor connections to existing dining facilities. Signature red metal accents will pay tribute to the original college, while its pedestrian-friendly design and outdoor communal quad will create new spaces for connection and reflection.

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Second-Period Surge Sinks Peterborough Lakers At Home to Brooklin L.C.

The Peterborough Lakers could not get the comeback after a six-goal period from the Brooklin L.C. and fell 13-9 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday night.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Lakers.

The Laker had the lead after the first period. Taite Cattoni opened the scoring, Joe Resetarits had a power play goal and recently-acquired Dustyn Birkhof scored the third goal of the period for Peterborough to have a 3-2 lead.

The second saw a flurry of goals from the visitors after Austin Hasen had extended Peterborough’s lead. Brooklin scored six unanswered to take an 8-4 lead heading into the third.

“It got a little ugly,” said Adam Thistlethwaite, Lakers defenceman. “It got away from us there.”

Peterborough tried to come back but Brooklin was able to go step-for-step. The visitors scored the first three of four goals to extend their lead as Braedon Saris had the Lakers’s only goal. Peterborough went on a three-goal run with Taite Cattoni, Jake Withers and Matt Gilray scoring but Brooklin scored the last two of three to clinch the 13-9 win over the Lakers.

“We need to stay focused on the end goal,” said Thistlethwaite. “When you see things get messy in the game, you want to support your teammates through those rough spots and help them stay focused on the end goal of the game. You don’t like to see teammates being taken advantage of. We try to score goals for each other, for the city.”

The loss drops the Lakers to third in the league with a 7-2 record. Peterborough takes on the two-time defending Mann Cup Champion Six Nations Chiefs on Tuesday on the road.

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Two Male Teens Charged With Robbing Another Teenager On the Street

Two male teenagers are facing robbery charges after an incident on Thursday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 5:30 p.m., officers learned of a street level robbery around Chamberlain Street and Western Avenue.

They learned that the 14-year-old victim had been approached by two males on bicycles who grabbed the victim’s phone, backpack and sweater before fleeing the area. Shortly after, officers located two teens matching the description given to police in the Park Street and Romaine Street area and took them into custody. Some of the property was located and returned.

A 14-year-old Peterborough male was arrested and charged with:

• Robbery with Violence

A 15-year-old Peterborough male was arrested and charged with:

• Robbery with Violence

• Failure to comply with release order – other than attend court

The accused is currently bound by a release order with the following condition to remain in their residence at all times with limited exceptions.

Both accused are being held in custody and will appear in court Friday.

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Film Selected For Canada Day Movie Night

The City of Peterborough’s poll for the free Canada Day Movie Night has selected Fly Away Home as the feature film, held at Quaker Foods City Square on June 30.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A total of 500 votes were cast to select the film for the City of Peterborough’s Canada Day Outdoor Movie Night. Fly Away Home was the winner with 217 votes.  

Other options included The Legend of Sarila, Kayak to Klemtu and Cheaper by the Dozen. Each movie has a Canadian connection through cast and crew, filming location, or theme. The poll was open from June 9 to June 13.

Quaker Foods will provide snacks and treats for the evening, and the City will offer free popcorn. Movie-goers are encouraged to arrive by 8 p.m. as supplies are limited.

The City reminds movie-watchers to bring an outdoor chair and water. 

The movie night will kick off the Canada Day festivities on June 30 at dusk (around 9 p.m.). The City is asking residents to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks to settle in. Free popcorn is handed out before the show.

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Denne Park Celebrates Grand Opening On Bensfort Road

The City of Peterborough celebrated the opening of Denne Park, located at 2401 Bensfort Rd., on Thursday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to the City, the need to rejuvenate Denne Park was identified as part of a comprehensive examination of the City’s green spaces and parks. Construction began in the spring of 2024.  

The City has added a playground, sheltered picnic area with accessible seating, walkways and new benches within Denne Park. A bicycle rack has been installed, and Sugar Maple and Colorado Spruce trees have been planted alongside the park’s existing trees. 

“This new park is an investment in both physical and mental well-being, and a reflection of our commitment to accessible, inclusive recreation for everyone in Peterborough. Access to safe, welcoming recreation opportunities is essential for a healthy, thriving Peterborough, and this new park is a meaningful step in that direction,” said Councillors Alex Bierk and Lesley Parnell in a joint statement.  

“A park is more than just a green space, it’s the heart of a neighbourhood. This is a space where families will gather, children will play and neighbours will connect. This is a space where community can grow. This new park will benefit residents for years to come,” said Ashburnham Ward Councillors Gary Baldwin and Keith Riel. 

The City has also completed rejuvenation work at Dominion Park. Improvements to Dominion Park include upgraded safety surfacing, a shaded shelter, accessible seating, tree planting, a new walkway and a sensory play area.  

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Trent Valley Honda Hosting Customer Appreciation BBQ & Car Wash On 50th Anniversary to Support Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation This Saturday

To celebrate their 50th anniversary, Trent Valley Honda (TVH) is hosting a Customer Appreciation BBQ & Car Wash in support of Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Trent Valley Honda.

The family-run business has been in Peterborough since 1975, located at 851 Highway 7 East.

“Our commitment to, training around and living our brand promise, has helped us foster a culture, where customers truly do come first, employees are proud and empowered to always do the right thing, and are motivated to go above and beyond for each other and for our customers,” said Monika Carmichael, Trent Valley Honda general manager. “The loyalty of our customers and our employees has been the key to sustainable growth and success.”

The free event features a charity raffle for two Gold tickets to the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Toronto on July 21, as well as ice cream, bouncy castles, face painting and a gift for every 2026 model test drive as part of the Test Drive Event this month.

The event typically raises $500 but TVH is aiming to double that this year according to Carmichael.

“We have often chosen causes that support and empower children that are less fortunate, including the YES Shelter, YWCA Women’s shelter, etc., she explained. “Kawartha Haliburton’s Children’s Aid acknowledged our ongoing community work and submitted a powerful proposal on why we should make them one of our causes.”

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Peterborough Petes Announce 2025 Education Fund Award Winners

The 2025 winners of the Peterborough Petes Education Fund Scholarships have been announced, which are awarded annually to a player from the Petes U18 AAA and the Peterborough IceKats U18 AA, as selected by their coaches.

(From left to right) Mike Martone, Cameron Meek, Hannah McInnes and Rod McGillis. Each year, the Peterborough Petes Education Fund also awards six $500 scholarships to local high schools, to be presented to a graduating student who has demonstrated self-improvement through hard work during their high school years. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

“The Peterborough Petes Education fund was established by former Petes Board of Directors member Pat Casey in the late 1970s,” said Rod McGillis, Petes Vice President. “We are proud to continue to give out these scholarships each year to deserving athletes and students. Pat always knew that education was a critical part of the Peterborough Petes program and his work has allowed for these scholarships to continue to current students and athletes.”

This year’s winner from the Peterborough Petes U18AAA is Cameron Meek. Meek, a forward from Port Perry, attends Port Perry High School and served as Captain of the team this season.

“I’m honoured to receive this award,” said Meek. “I want to thank my coaches for giving me the opportunity to lead this team. Your support and belief helped me to be better every single day both on and off the ice. I also want to thank the boys for an amazing season and wish them the best with whatever they do next year.”

“Cameron Meek spent two impressive years with the U18 Petes, earning the captaincy in his second season,” said Scott Roche, Petes U18 Coach. “Known for his exceptional leadership, Cameron consistently led by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic both on and off the ice. His infectious attitude helped elevate the team's morale, making him a key motivator and a great teammate. Always putting in the effort and displaying a high level of commitment, he quickly became someone others looked up to, not just for his skill, but for his character and dedication to the game.”

This year’s winner from the Peterborough IceKats U18AA is Hannah McInnes. McInnes, a Peterborough native, plays defence for the IceKats and attends St. Peter Secondary.

“I feel very fortunate and grateful to receive this award,” said McInnes. “I want to thank the entire IceKats organization and all of my coaches over the years who have helped develop me as a player and a person along the way. As I have just graduated from  my last season of minor hockey; I will always remember all of my teammates and the memories we made over the years. I’m so lucky to have been part of such an amazing sport with awesome people. I’m looking forward to going away in the fall to university and putting this Peterborough Petes Education Fund scholarship towards my education. Lastly, I want to give a huge ‘thank you’ to the Peterborough Petes organization for this generous award.”

“Hannah McInnes has been a dedicated and inspiring IceKat,” said Cameron Mann, IceKats U18AA Head Coach. “She is an outstanding student, leader and teammate who always puts the team first. Her hard work, coachability and commitment, on and off the ice, make her a true role model. The University of Guelph is lucky to have her this fall.”

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Two People Charged After a Man Was Chased Out From a Break-And-Enter And Assaulted With a Bat

Two people are facing separate charges including assault and breaking and entering after an incident Tuesday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 11:50 a.m., officers were called to the area of Monaghan Road and Cameron Street about a man chasing another man with a bat. Officers located a man matching the description given to police walking with a bat and took him into custody.  Officers continued to search the area and located a second man matching the description given to the police, taking him into custody.  The second man was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment of injuries. 

Through investigation, officers learned that one man had broken into a home and the resident chased him out with a bat, striking him several times.

A 31-year-old Whitby man was arrested and charged with:

• Assault causing bodily harm

The accused was held in custody and appeared in court on Wednesday.

A 43-year-old Peterborough man was arrested and charged with:

• Break, Enter a dwelling house with intent to commit indictable offence

The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court July 29.

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Peterborough Petes Release Full 2025-26 Regular Season Schedule

The Peterborough Petes have officially released their full schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 regular season.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The Petes have their home opener on Sept. 18 against the Brampton Steelheads and finish out their 68-game season in Oshawa on March 22.

Key dates for the 2025-26 Petes season are as follows:

• Sept. 18 - Home opener against the Brampton Steelheads

• Oct.16 - Oct. 19 - Rivalry Week, featuring a home and home with the Oshawa Generals and a visit from the Ottawa 67’s

• Oct. 30 - Petes host the defending OHL and Memorial Cup Champion London Knights

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Six Local Youth Startups Announced For Community Futures Peterborough's Inaugural Summer Company Program

Community Futures Peterborough’s (CFP) Business Advisory Centre (BAC) named six local youth startups for its inaugural Summer Company Program, announced on Wednesday.

In Ontario, young people under the age of 30 now make up nearly 12 percent of all self-employed individuals according to CFP. Photo courtesy of CFP.

This summer’s participants are Lauren Connolly, Teaghan Hartnett, Haydon Meade, Neha Mervin, Bisma Razaque and Spencer Toth.

The initiative is aided by the Government of Ontario, which supports the entrepreneurial aspirations of youth aged 15 to 29. Each year, the program provides eligible young people with up to $3,000 in grant funding to start and operate a business over the summer months. Participants also receive comprehensive business training, expert advice and personalized mentorship to help turn their ideas into real-world enterprises.

“I love seeing kids grow in their swimming skills and confidence,” said Connolly, Connolly Swim Academy founder. “I am really excited to make my business the best it can be for my clients.”

Businesses range from a swimming instructor, Bollywood dance classes, window washing, landscaping service and farm support.

“Young entrepreneurs are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but they are also bringing fresh ideas to our region,” says Rose Terry, BAC manager. “The Summer Company Program is giving these six young entrepreneurs the opportunity to gain practical experience in launching and operating a business, while also equipping them with confidence, mentorship, and the skills they need to succeed beyond the program. We’re proud to lead a program that changes lives.”

Allison Adam, CFP Entrepreneurship Officer has been leading the program since May.

“You can really see their confidence build as they take charge of their ideas. It’s not about having everything figured out,” she said. “It’s about making progress, staying curious, and being willing to try.”

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