Clean Up Peterborough Collects Over 26,000 Writing Instruments to Be Recycled

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Clean Up Peterborough (CUP) has wrapped up its month-long Writing Instrument Challenge and collected 26,772 used writing instruments from June 1 to 30.

Including smaller efforts from the past year, CUP has now collected 28,805 writing instruments since joining TerraCycle’s program in October last year. Photo courtesy of Clean Up Peterborough.

This included pens, markers, highlighters and mechanical pencils through 92 collection points the City and County of Peterborough.

“Our original target was 50,000, but the true goal was always to spark a wider conversation about waste diversion and community action,” said Steve Paul, Clean Up Peterborough founder. “In just one month, we reached thousands of people, saw 92 collection points established, and inspired many partners to continue collecting year-round. That impact far exceeded our expectations.”

The final tally was 158.11 kilograms of writing instruments — the equivalent of 18 full bags and one box — to be recycled through TerraCycle’s specialized program.

The following were the top three contributors:

  • Lakefield District Public School – 3,542 items

  • Douro-Dummer Municipal Office – 1,314 items

  • Avant Garden Shop – 1,138 items

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PHOTOS: Peterborough Police Have a Fishing Day With Peterborough Bigs and Camp Kids

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The Peterborough Police Service had a fishing day with children from Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough (PTBO Bigs) and camp kids from the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters (OFAH) filled the day with activities on Tuesday afternoon.

The intro to fishing event was held at OFAH’s facility, with 62 children participating: 22 from PTBO Bigs and 40 from the OFAH camp.

“This day gives the youth the opportunity to see the offices in a common space,” explained Meribeth Burley, OFAH conservation education coordinator. “They can see the officers participating, helping and doing activities that they like too.”

Activities included a scavenger hunt, lure making, police K9 demonstration and more.

@ptbo_canada The Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters saw Peterborough Police invite camp kids and children from Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough to a fishing day! #ptbocanada #ptbo #peterborough #journalism #journalist #news #fyp ♬ Ok I Like It - Milky Chance

“It (the children) helps build a good relationship with them (Peterborough Police),” said Const. Andrew Eason. “The activities are cool but when we can add the policing aspect, I think that’s really important.”

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Hockey Benders Hit Lansdowne Place July 16

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Internet sensations Cole & Aiden, also known as “The Hockey Benders,” are hitting Lansdowne Place as part of their Canadian Summer Mall Tour on July 16th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Lansdowne Place.

The pair are known for their viral social media videos, mostly revolving around hockey humour.

The duo will be at Centre Court, where fans can take a photo opportunity, purchase exclusive merchandise from their hockey lifestyle brand at their booth, and experience them in person with a meet-and-greet.

Their tour has four Ontario stops including Kingston, Ottawa, Oshawa, and Peterborough, before heading west to Fort McMurray, Edmonton, Calgary, and Medicine Hat.

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Peterborough Police Issue Several Tickets During Traffic Blitz

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Peterborough Police Service Traffic Unit officers conducted a traffic blitz in the subdivision near Lily Lake Road and York Drive in mid-June. 

Tickets were issued for:

  • Failing to stop x9

  • Careless Driving

  • Brake lights not working

  • Insecure load

  • No muffler

  • Improper Emission equipment

The police remind motorists to be aware of stop signs in neighbourhoods, to stop and look before proceeding.

“Thank you for your attention and to help keep our roads safe for everyone. The Traffic Unit will continue to conduct initiatives throughout the year,” in a statement made by the Peterborough Police Service.

If you have a traffic complaint and if it is a non-emergency situation, you can reach out to the Traffic Unit at 705-876-1122 x289 or through the online reporting portal.  In an emergency, call 9-1-1. 


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New Canadians Centre Appoint New Executive Director

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The New Canadians Centre (NCC) has appointed Jeeniraj “JJ” Thevasagayam as its new executive director, effective Sept. 2.

NCC receieved 300 applicants for the executive director position. Photo courtesy of the New Canadians Centre.

He takes over the role left by former executive director Andy Cragg, who stepped down from the position at the end of last month, following an announcement made in late March. Cragg held the position for six years.

According to the NCC, he brings a wealth of experience in organizational leadership and a deep personal commitment to community development and supporting the successful settlement of immigrants and refugees.

“We are thrilled to welcome JJ as our new Executive Director,” said Kim Blackwell NCC Board Chair. “His extensive experience, commitment, and knowledge of the community and the NCC community make him the perfect fit for this role.”

After fleeing the civil war in Sri Lanka with his family, Thevasagayam grew up in the Regent Park community in downtown Toronto. As a newcomer refugee, he faced numerous challenges, including homelessness and precarious housing situations. NCC says while non-profit organizations with similar missions supported his journey, he recognizes and celebrates the vital role that organizations play in helping newcomers build a sense of home and belonging in Canada.

Before joining NCC, Thevasagayam held significant positions in various organizations, including most recently as Manager of Housing for the City of Peterborough. JJ has also served on many boards and committees, including locally for the YMCA and NCC.

“I am truly honoured to step into this role with the New Canadians Centre. As someone whose journey as a newcomer was shaped by the kind of support NCC provides, this opportunity holds deep personal meaning,” said Thevasagayam. “I understand the challenges many newcomers face and the difference that a warm welcome, meaningful support, and strong community connections can make. I am committed to building on NCC’s strong foundation and expanding its impact across Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and Northumberland County. With the support of staff, the board, volunteers, and our community partners, I look forward to working together to build inclusive and vibrant communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the fabric of Canadian society.”

Marisa Kaczmarczyk, NCC’s director of client services, serves as the interim executive director.

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Local Sports Coach Arrested From Child Luring Investigation

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Former Cavan FC and Peterborough Hockey Association coach Jeff Merrick has been arrested after a child luring investigation, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Belleville Police Servi e.

The 46-year-old Peterborough man was arrested by Belleville Police Service Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) and Emergency Response Unit (ERU).

He had allegedly been operating in online chat rooms under the username “Peterboroguy.”

Merrick was arrested and charged with:

  • Luring a person under 16 x2

  • Making written child pornography

  • Invitation to sexual touching

Merrick has been held for a bail hearing since his arrest.

Police are aware that Merrick is the head coach of at least two U18 girls’ sports teams in the Peterborough and Cavan areas and are concerned that there may be other victims.

Cavan FC released a statement regarding the arrest on their Facebook page:

“Cavan FC was contacted this afternoon by the Belleville Police Service. Jeff Merrick has been removed from his role with Cavan FC effective immediately, pending an ongoing investigation. We will be cooperating fully with the police.”

Anyone with information regarding this investigation or who may be a possible victim is asked to contact Detective Constable Lacey Montgomery of the BPS ICE Unit at lmontgomery@bellevilleps.ca.

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David Tuan Bui


Peterborough Petes Release Preseason Schedule

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The Peterborough Petes have released their schedule for the 2025 OHL preseason with four games announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The Petes’ first three preseason games will take place in local community arenas to be announced later this week. The fourth and final game will take place in Sarnia at Progressive Auto Sales Arena.

The Petes’ full preseason schedule can be seen below:

  • Saturday, August 30 at 7:05 p.m. vs Erie Otters (location TBA)

  • Sunday, August 31 at 2:05 p.m. vs Erie Otters (location TBA)

  • Sunday, September 7 at 2:05 p.m. vs Kingston Frontenacs (location TBA)

  • Friday, September 12 at 7:05 p.m. @ Sarnia Sting (Progressive Auto Sales Arena)

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City Hosting Public Information Centre for Clonsilla Area Transportation Study This Wednesday

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A public information centre for the Clonsilla Area Transportation Study takes place at the Healthy Planet Arena, in the Banquet Hall from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

A brief presentation will take place at 6 p.m., followed by an opportunity to ask questions and speak with the project team. A recording of the presentation will be available for review on the Connect Peterborough project page.

The Connect Peterborough project page will also host a survey to gather input on the preliminary study design, which will be available until Aug. 21.

The Clonsilla Area Transportation Study focuses on the need for transportation improvements along Clonsilla Avenue. The need for these improvements was identified through the City of Peterborough’s Transportation Master Plan, adopted in 2022, which identifies multi-modal transportation solutions to help address population and employment growth in the City up to 2051.  

The Study is in its first phase, which seeks to identify transportation problems and opportunities, determine potential alternatives, and outline the scope of work and a consultation plan that will need to be implemented.  

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David Tuan Bui


Male and Female Suspects Sought After Brandishing a Knife and Stole Necklaces In Street Robbery

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Officers with the Peterborough Police Service are seeking two suspects following a robbery early Saturday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 4:05 a.m., officers were called to the area of Rubidge Street and Sherbrooke Street regarding a reported robbery. A man and a woman brandished a knife at two other men and took two necklaces before fleeing the area and were last seen heading eastbound on Dalhousie Street.  The two victims did not wish for medical attention.

Suspect #1 is described as:

  • Male, White

  • 6 ft

  • 140lbs

  • 30-40 years old 

  • White basketball jersey that said "St. Patrick's" on the front 

Suspect #2 is described as:

  • Female, White

  • 30 years old 

  • Heavy set 

  • Green cheetah pants

  • Black sweater  

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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Youth and Holnbeck Civic Award Nominations Open Until Aug. 8

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Civic Award nominations are open for the Holnbeck and Youth Volunteer of the Year awards.  

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY OF PETERBOROUGH.

The Holnbeck Award recognizes a couple or person who has made a lifelong contribution that has enhanced the quality of life for people with disabilities through volunteer work. Nominees for this award can live in the City or County of Peterborough.   

The Youth Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an individual who was 18 years old or younger in 2025 and has made significant contributions to the development and delivery of community programs and services through volunteer work.  

Nominations close Aug. 8.  

Nomination forms can also be picked up at City Hall, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.  

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