Peterborough Petes Select Three From 2025 CHL Import Draft

The Peterborough Petes have selected three players in Leon Kolarik, Yanis Lutz, and Melvin Fernström from the 2025 CHL Import Draft on Wednesday.

“We’re very excited about the players that we were able to select in today’s Import Draft,” said Michael Oke, general manager and vice president of operations. “Over the course of the season, Rob Wilson, Patrick O’Connor, myself, and other members of our staff have had the chance to watch these players in person and on video. All three players displayed the abilities needed to succeed in the OHL and the characteristics that we look for in a Peterborough Pete.”

The Petes’ first pick in the draft was 63rd overall in round two, taking Kolarik, the Austrian forward from Red Bull Hockey Akademie Juniors.

A 2007-born forward from Vienna, he played in 36 games for the RB Hockey Juniors in the AlpsHL last season, scoring 10 goals and adding 13 assists for 23 points. He also played in seven games for EC Salzburg in the ICEHL (Austria’s top league), scoring once and adding two assists for three points. In the playoffs, Kolarik led EC Salzburg U20 in scoring, with eight goals and six assists for 14 points in eight games. Kolarik has also represented his home country of Austria at multiple levels. This past year, he scored seven points in five games at the U18 World Championship Division 1A, while also recording four assists in five games at the U20 World Championship Division 1A.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

With the Petes second pick, 109th overall, they selected Lutz from EV Zug U20 in Switzerland.

The 2008-born forward from Lachen, played 34 games for EV Zug U20 this season, scoring 14 goals and adding eight assists for 22 points. He also played in 12 games for EV Zug U17 this year, scoring eight goals and adding five assists for 13 points. Lutz has represented his home country of Switzerland at the U17 level. In 2024-25, he played in 16 games for the Switzerland U17 team, scoring six goals and providing six assists for 12 points.

Photo courtesy of Philipp Hegglin and EV Zug.

The Petes third and final pick in the draft came at 121 in round three, taking Fernström, a Pittsburgh Penguins prospect from Orebro HK in Sweden.

A 2006-born forward from Bålsta, he was initially selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the third round, 93rd overall, in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. He was acquired by the Pittsburgh Penguins on Feb. 1, along with Danton Heinen, Vincent Desharnais and a first-round pick in exchange for Marcus Pettersson and Drew O’Connor. On June 13, Fernström signed an entry-level contract with the Penguins after putting up 17 points in 48 games with Örebro HK in the SHL in 2024-25.

Photo courtesy of Steve Ellis.

“We are very pleased with how the Import draft went today,” said Patrick O’Connor, Petes director of player personnel and assistant coach. “Rob (Wilson) and I spent extensive time in Europe doing a lot of research on these players and we’re very happy to be able to select them today. Leon is a talented, quick young player with a good hockey IQ, and is someone who we believe will put up good offensive numbers in the OHL. Yanis is an explosive, offensive player who is a little bit younger, but is also someone who we believe will succeed at the OHL level. Melvin has a good shot, knows where to be on the ice and has professional experience playing in the SHL.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City Providing Assistance For Air Conditioning Units to Eligible Residents

The City of Peterborough may provide financial support of up to $300 for those who receive either Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program to aid in the purchase of an air conditioner.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Eligible residents must have a diagnosed severe medical respiratory condition or diagnosed severe asthma and are required to submit a copy of a current prescription and at least one estimate for the purchase of an air conditioning unit. Recipients must also have an address in the City or County of Peterborough.

Additional information can be found at thier respective case workers or the Social Services office at 705-748-8830.  

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Police Investigating Two Toyotas Stolen On Canada Day

The Peterborough Police Service are investigating after two thefts of Toyota vehicles were reported on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The vehicles were taken between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. One vehicle was taken from the driveway of a residence in the Cunningham Boulevard and Armour Road area and the second from the Clancy Crescent and Spillsbury Drive area.

In both cases, broken glass was found in the driveways where the vehicles had been parked. Some of the items from the first theft were located in the Old Norwood Road and Naish Drive area. 

In recent months, Peterborough Police have received multiple incident reports, with the focus continuing to be on Toyota vehicles, primarily trucks and larger SUVs. 

In most cases, a suspect or lookout vehicle is involved and residents are asked to watch for unknown vehicles with people inside during the late evening or early morning hours, parked on the street for extended periods.

The Peterborough Police Service is working with other police jurisdictions and is asking residents with these vehicles to be extra vigilant. 

The Police suggest the public to consider taking the following precautions:

• parking another vehicle in front of the vehicle or in your garage, if possible, to make it difficult for thieves to drive off

• if your vehicle comes with a tracking system, please make sure it is installed and activated

• using a theft deterrent device

Any suspicious activity should be reported to Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or 9-1-1 if it is an emergency or a crime in progress or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough Petes Forward Named to U.S. Under-17 Select Team

Peterborough Petes forward Gerry DiCunzolo has been named to the 2025 U.S. Under-17 Select Team to compete at the Under-17 Four Nations Tournament from Aug. 5-9 in Plymouth, Mi.

Photo courtesy of TDavid Pickering and the Peterborough Petes.

“I’d like to congratulate Gerry on being named to the U.S. Under-17 Select Team,” said Michael Oke, general manager and vice president of operations. “This is a great opportunity for him to play with and against some of the top players in the 2009 age group. This experience will be very beneficial as he prepares for his first season in the OHL with the Peterborough Petes.”

The Buffalo native was initially selected by the Petes in the third round, 61st overall, in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. The left-handed centre played 62 games for Shattuck-St. Mary’s 15O last season. He led the team in scoring with 57 goals and 90 assists for 147 points. DiCunzolo also played in four games with Shattuck at the USA 15-only National Championships, leading his team in scoring with three goals and three assists for six points.

On May 27, DiCunzolo signed an OHL Standard Player Agreement (SPA)with the Petes, becoming the first player from their 2025 draft class to do so. Second-round picks Kieran Raynor and Matthew Perreault have both been signed to an SPA.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Roof Replacement Work Underway Peterborough Regional Health Centre

Construction work at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) to replace the roof is underway.

File Photo.

This project is expected to be implemented in phases over several years and will temporarily impact the hospital site and the surrounding area during this period. The first phase began on Monday and PRHC expects it to last approximately 14 weeks.

Patients, visitors and others who are on or around the hospital site should expect the following:

• Standard construction-related noise during work hours (typically Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.)

• A noticeable increase in the presence of contractors, work vehicles and delivery trucks

• During specific phases of this project, mild odours related to roofing materials may be noticeable. We are working with our suppliers to reduce the impact of odours as much as possible.

Designated work zones will be marked during this time.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Ontario Offering Free Fishing Until July 6

The Ontario government is celebrating Canada Day by allowing all Canadian residents to fish for free in Ontario until Saturday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“This week is the perfect chance to gather with friends and family to reel in new experiences and explore all the great fishing opportunities our province has to offer,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “I encourage fishing enthusiasts and first-timers alike to cast a line in celebration of Canada – the True North, strong and free, and the place we call home.”

According to the provincial government, recreational fishing is a vital part of Ontario's economy and heritage, contributing significantly to local tourism and employment.

These free-fishing opportunities remove barriers and encourage those new to fishing to give it a try, allowing them to discover the enjoyment of fishing first hand says the Ontario government

Anyone participating in Family Fishing Week, must follow all conservation licence catch and size limits and obey sanctuaries and other fishing regulations.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Erratic Driving Leads to Impaired Driving Arrest For Peterborough Man

A 24-year-old Peterborough man is facing impaired charges after an incident early Saturday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 1:45 a.m., officers received a 9-1-1 call about a possible impaired driver in the area of Sherbrooke Street and Brealey Drive.

A general patrol officer in the area located the vehicle and noticed some erratic driving. A traffic stop was conducted in the area of Sherbrooke Street and Goodfellow Road. Upon speaking with the driver, officers observed signs of impairment.

The man was arrested and charged with:

• Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs

• Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused was issued an automatic 90-day license suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment.

The accused was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in court Aug. 5.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City to Temporarily Close Roads For Canada Day Fireworks

Temporary road closures will be in place from noon to 10:30 p.m. to ensure public safety for the Canada Day fireworks display on Tuesday.

File Photo.

The following are the affected roads:

• Perry Street from the east side of George Street to the west side of Crescent Street

• Lake Street from the east side of George Street to the west side of Crescent Street

• Crescent Street from the north side of Romaine Street to the south side of Perry Street

• Lock Street from the north side of Romaine Street to the south side of Crescent Street

The fireworks display will take place at 9:30 p.m.

Detour routes will be in place.

The City requests that everyone follow all signage related to road closures and on-street parking restrictions in the area.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring EC3, JA-Neo, Leadership in Sustainability and Pathway of Fame

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

We’re going to do something a bit different this week. Some great community organizations have held various awards and recognition events in recent weeks and we’re going to highlight some of the people who go above and beyond.

First up, the Electric City Culture Council recently hosted their Celebration of the Arts event.

Peterborough has a vibrant arts scene, which doesn’t happen by accident. It takes a lot of hard work and EC3 recently recognized a few of our outstanding arts champions: Lynda Todd, Olivia Whetung, Syd Birrell, Sarah DeCarlo, David Goyette, and Chad Hogan. Thanks for all that you do! Our arts and culture sector plays a crucial role for many local businesses.

Junior Achievement Northern and Eastern Ontario held their 10th annual Business Hall of Fame.

They inducted Darrell Junkin, Diane Richard, Tony and Kelli Grady, Grant Seabrooke, Matt Holmes, Michael Riseley, Donnell Leahy, Natalie McMaster, Julia Leahy, Margo and Paul Hudson, Nancy Wiskel, Martin and Kelly Carbajal, Drew Merrett, Raj Patel and the Eatson family. Thank you all for your leadership and enormous contributions to our local business community. Junior Achievement is an organization that promotes getting young people prepared for the workforce and entrepreneurship.

We have a lot of progressive businesses who are leading the way in sustainability and environmental action. Green Economy Peterborough, a part of GreenUP, held their annual Leadership in Sustainability Awards.

This year’s recipients include Morton Medical Centre, Woodleigh Farms, Wild Rock Outfitters, Unity Design Studio, and Kelly Jamieson of Charlotte Products. Well done all of you. You’re not only making our community a better place – you’re leading by example, showing us who we can build stronger and more sustainable businesses.

We have one more group of esteemed community builders being honoured, this time through recognition in the Pathway of Fame. The class of 2025 is Jerry Allen, Julie Fallis, Ted Dawes, Bob Trennum, Peggy Shaughnessy, Dr. Garry Humphreys, Ray Caft, and Susan Dunkley.

Thanks to all of you for being an inspiration and volunteering countless hours to building a stronger community. If you want to find out more about these amazing people’s contributions, check out the organizations honouring them for the complete writeups on everyone mentioned here.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to joel@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Peterborough's Porter Martone Drafted Sixth Overall to the Philadelphia Flyers

The NHL dream has come true for Peterborough’s Porter Martone as he was drafted sixth overall by the Philadelphia Flyers at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, Ca. on Friday evening.

Photo by Jordan Cooper.

Martone spent the majority of his Ontario Hockey League career with the Mississauga/Brampton Steelheads and had a brief stint with the Sarnia Sting, playing 29 games during the 2022-23 season.

He finished this season with 37 goals and 61 assists in 57 games while captaining the Steelheads. He also captained Team Canada to a gold medal at the IIHF U18 World Championship last year in Finland.

The Peterborough forward was a member of the Petes U15 AAA team, scoring six goals and 15 assists in 36 games.

Porter is the son of his father and former NHL player Mike Martone. The latter was known for scoring the game-winning overtime goal in the 1996 OHL Championship against the Guelph Storm.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.