Strawberry Ceremony For Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women to Take Place This Weekend At Peterborough Police Station

The community is invited to a Strawberry Ceremony held in remembrance of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, trans and two-spirited peoples on Feb. 14 at the Peterborough Police Station.

Photo by david tuan bui.

The ceremony will take place outside on the west side of the building near the flagpole.

"The strawberry is a symbol of love, healing and heart, a reflection of what this ceremony is about,” said Shelley Knott, Indigenous Relations Advisor with the City of Peterborough. “This is a time and space for remembrance and solidarity as families and community come together to honour loved ones and amplify Indigenous voices, ensuring that the lives and stories of missing Indigenous women, girls, trans and two-spirited people will not be forgotten.”

Hand drummers and jingle dancers are encouraged to attend and participate in the ceremony.  

The Strawberry Ceremony is held in partnership between the City of Peterborough, the Peterborough Police Service and the Urban Indigenous Working Groups, and will take place from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Peterborough Police Station (500 Water St.)

A screening of “This River” will also take place Feb. 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St. N) in the Friends of the Library room. Told from an Indigenous perspective, This River tells the story of the devastating experience of searching for a loved one who has disappeared.   

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

Trent Lakes Man Becomes Millionaire From LOTTO 6/49 Gold Ball Draw

Jeffrey Groome has become Trent Lakes’s newest millionaire after winning a LOTTO 6/49 prize worth $1 million in the Gold Ball Draw on Dec. 24.

Photo courtesy of OLG.

The 69-year-old said he found out about his big win when he checked his tickets at the gas station.

“I waved my friend over immediately to show him,” said Groome.

With his newfound money, he plans to pay some bills and travel to the Cayman Islands.

“All my life I’ve dreamed of fishing, so I’m finally going to buy a boat too,” said Groome. “This win couldn’t have come at a better time.”

The winning ticket was purchased at Petro-Canada on Highway 35 North in Lindsay.

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

Three Oshawa Teenagers Charged With Robbery After Ripping Keys From Woman's Hand And Fleeing With Their Vehicle

Three Oshawa teens are facing charges after a vehicle was stolen Sunday night.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 11:30 p.m., officers were called to the area of Middlefield Road and Milford Drive area. They learned that owner of the vehicle had just arrived home when another vehicle stopped at the end of her driveway and two teens got out and demanded her keys. The woman attempted to flee into her house but the teens followed her and forced the keys from her hand.

Both vehicles then fled the area, heading toward Highway 115. Officers received word that OPP had attempted to stop the vehicles near Highway 7A but they fled police. OPP advised that they had located and stopped the two vehicles on the 401 westbound near Port Hope and three males had been taken into custody.

An 18-year-old Oshawa male was charged with:

• Robbery with Violence

• Dangerous operation

• Flight from peace officer

A 19-year-old Oshawa male was charged with:

• Robbery with Violence

• Dangerous operation

• Flight from peace officer

A 19-year-old Oshawa male was charged with:

• Robbery with Violence

• Dangerous operation

• Flight from peace officer

All three were held in custody and appeared in court on Monday.

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

Peterborough Police Seeking Missing Teen Girl Who Left Home With Suitcase

UPDATED (10-02-26): The missing teen has been located and returned home.

The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 14-year-old Brooke.

She was seen leaving home with a suitcase between 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Monday and was spotted again around 6 p.m. at the Tim Hortons on George Street. Throughout the night, officers checked known locations but she has not been located. 

Brooke is described as:

• White female

• Brown hair

• Brown Eyes

• Slim build

• Wearing a green coat, white and red Nike shoes and black leggings

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, 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 Uride, HERmanas Boutique and MicroAge PW

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…

Uride Launches $20,000 Student Support Fund

Ride-sharing service Uride has introduced a new initiative aimed at supporting students facing financial challenges. The company has committed $20,000 to its Student Support Fund, which will award $5,000 to one deserving student each week throughout February. These funds can be applied toward tuition fees or other school-related expenses.

The program is open to students residing in communities where Uride operates. By providing this direct financial assistance, Uride hopes to help ease some of the economic pressures that many students experience during the academic year. For full details on eligibility and how to apply, interested students should download the Uride app.

HERmanas Boutique and Bikinis by Bridget Nominated for National Awards

Apsley-based HERmanas Boutique and its swimwear brand, Bikinis by Bridget, have earned dual nominations in the 2025 Canadian SME National Business Awards. The boutique, owned and operated by sisters Bridget and Victoria, has been shortlisted for Small Business of the Year.

The business is celebrated for its original, sustainably produced swimwear made with innovative Truelife® ECO fabrics, as well as its carefully curated selection of global fashion pieces. In addition to the business recognition, founder Bridget has received an individual nomination for Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

With summer fast approaching, now is the perfect time to explore their latest swimwear collections and seasonal styles. Visit their website at shophermanas.ca to browse the full range.

MicroAge PW Expands to Become MicroAge PWK Through Kingston Acquisition

MicroAge PW, serving Peterborough and Whitby, has reached a significant milestone by acquiring MicroAge Kingston and rebranding as MicroAge PWK. This strategic expansion brings together three locations with a shared commitment to supporting local businesses.

The Kingston team brings decades of experience helping regional organizations with their IT needs. The newly combined group has emphasized that it will maintain the strong local focus that has defined each location while benefiting from greater resources, broader expertise, and fresh momentum. By uniting strengths across Peterborough, Whitby, and Kingston, MicroAge PWK aims to provide even higher levels of IT leadership, service quality, and innovation to clients throughout the area.

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 brenda@pkchamber.ca.

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

Irish Historical Geographer Named Grand Marshall For 26th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade

With the 26th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade set for March 15 at 2 p.m. in Downtown Peterborough, Irish historial geographer Christy Roche has been named this year’s grand marshall, announced at the Jack McGee Chevrolet-Cadillac dealership on Monday afternoon.

Brendan Moher, Peterborough Canadian Irish Club (left) and Tim Burke, St. Patrick’s Day Parade organizer (right) with Christy Roche on a FaceTime call to address the public with Roche’s book, “From Whence They Came: The Peter Robinson Settlers.” Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Roche was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1944. He was educated at Grange National School, Fermoy CBS and University College Cork, from where he graduated with a degree in historical geography. He has written about the Peter Robinson immigrant families for the past 35 years.

Roche has given talks in Europe, Canada, the United States, Central America and has contributed historical articles to local newspapers and magazınes. Roche has written and edited several books, including “The Ford of the Apples,” “A Glimpse of Grange” and “From Whence They Came: The Peter Robinson Settlers.”

Members of Nine Ships 1825 suggested Roche to the parade organizer, Tim Burke, who immediately was on board with the recommendation. Selecting Roche continues to ride on the success of last year’s event, which celebrated the 200th anniversary of Peter Robinson, who supervised the emigration of impoverished Irish families to Upper Canada said Burke.

“He’s about as authentic as you can possibly get,” he explained. “We wanted to continue with the momentum they’ve (Nine Ships 1825) created, featuring our Irish heritage, as well as everything Peterborough has to offer.”

The parade is operating in its 26th year, a project Burke wants to continue, as Peterborough is rich in Irish heritage and he believes a parade like this does not exist until you get to around the Toronto area.

“I want to continue building the St. Patrick's Day Parade,” he said. “It's a tradition in Peterborough and it's part of our fabric.”

@ptbo_canada Historical geographer Christy Roche is this year’s Grand Marshall for Peterborough’s 2026 St. Patrick’s Day parade! #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #stpatricksday ♬ Irish Dance - Lofi Danny

Returning to the parade is a 5K run along George Street before the parade to raise money for Right to Heal to help those with mental health and addiction issues. The run begins at 1:30 p.m., starting at Roger Neilson Way and turning around at McDonnel Street before completing the circuit at George Street north of Lansdowne Street.

To sign up for the run, contact Dave Dame of Runner’s Life at 705-876-8960 or online. Donations can be given online at Right to Heal’s website.

A flag-raising will occur at City Hall on March 9 at 11 a.m. to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day.

Over 70 entries for the parade have been submitted and more are expected to join.

To register for the parade, visit the parade’s website and apply. For more information, contact Tim Burke at timburke77@yahoo.com.

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

Celebrate The Winter Season With The City of Peterborough's Annual Snofest Event

Embrace the chills, thrills and fun of the winter season during Snofest, the City of Peterborough’s annual winter celebration from Feb. 13 to 16.  

file photo.

“Snofest is a great way to embrace the cold by getting outside, staying active and having fun together,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Whether you’re swimming, skating, or enjoying one of the many free events happening throughout Family Day weekend, Snofest reminds us that the best way to stay warm is by sharing in the energy and spirit of our community.” 

A schedule of events can be found below:

Free Workshop 

Feb. 13 

Snofest begins with a workshop, “Getting the Most from your Healthcare Appointment,” at the McDonnel St. Community Centre (577 McDonnel St.) 10:30 a.m. to noon. This free workshop focuses on what to do before, during and after an appointment, and uses action planning to optimize people’s health. Registration is required and can be done online. The deadline to register for this event is Feb. 12 at noon.  

Hot Lunch and Social Hour 

Feb. 13 

A Snofest Hot Lunch and Social Hour for seniors begins at noon. The buffet lunch is free. Registration is required and can be done online. The deadline to register for this event is Feb. 12 at noon.  

Free Fun Swim 

Feb. 13 

A free fun swim takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) on Feb. 13 from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.  

Dinosaur Pop-Up 

Feb. 13 

A Dinosaur Pop-Up event takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Peterborough Museum and Archives staff for dinosaur-themed crafts and to learn about the Carnivorous Dinosaurs exhibit on display at the Peterborough Museum and Archives. 

Snofest Square 

Feb. 14

Quaker Foods City Square will be transformed into Snofest Square from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Snofest Square will feature cozy fire pits and seating for visitors to relax and enjoy the festivities. Programming includes Snoga (snow yoga) with Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness from noon to 12:30 p.m. followed by a Children’s Chorus led by Shannon McCracken from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors can warm up with a Salsa Dancing session with Victoria of T-Elle Boutique from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. or enjoy free outdoor ice skating on the Square’s rink.

Snofest Story Time and Winter Crafts 

Feb. 14

The Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St.) is hosting Snofest Story Time and Winter Crafts from 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.  

Snofest Pancake Breakfast 

Feb. 15

The mayor’s annual Snofest Pancake Breakfast takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) from 7 a.m. to noon. All residents are invited to come out and enjoy a plate of warm pancakes and a cup of hot coffee, tea or hot chocolate.  

Snofest at the Art Gallery of Peterborough 

Feb. 15

The Art Gallery of Peterborough (250 Crescent St.) is hosting a Gallery Scavenger Hunt and a “Snofest Pete” collage activity. Visitors can also view current exhibitions at the Gallery. Events take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Drop In Sports 

Feb. 16

Visit the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) for free drop-in sport sessions. The schedule is as follows:  

• Pickleball 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. 

• Basketball 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

• Badminton noon to 2 p.m. 

Free Skating and Crafts at the Miskin Law Community Complex 

Feb. 16

Free skating takes place from 11 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. at the Miskin Law Community Complex (271 Lansdowne St. W.) Both the Russelle Toyota Pad and the Canadian Hockey Enterprises Pad will be available to skaters. Free drop-in winter crafting activities take place in the multipurpose room from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

For a complete list of events visit the website.

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

Selwyn Township Partners With GreenUP To Offer Free Transit Rider Workshops

The Township of Selwyn, in partnership with GreenUP, is offering free transit rider workshops for community members interested in learning how to use public transit with confidence.

file photo.

Workshops will take place Feb. 12, at the following locations:

Curve Lake Cultural Centre (1024 Mississauga St., Curve Lake)

• 10 a.m.

• 10:30 a.m.

Lakefield Community Care Office (40 Rabbit St., Lakefield)

• 3 p.m.

• 3:30 p.m.

Interested participants can register in advance using the online registration form. All participants will be entered into a draw to win one free 10-ride Link bus pass.

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

Sold Out Pink In the Rink Crowd Gets 4-1 Peterborough Petes Win Over Sudbury Wolves

The annual Pink in the Rink game in support of the Survivors Abreast Peterborough Dragon Boat Team have a happy ending as the Petes defeated the Sudbury Wolves 4-1 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Saturday night.

The Petes are third in the East Division with a 29-19-1-2 record. Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

With no scoring in the first, it only took 83 seconds into the second for the game’s first goal. Kieran Walton dug the puck out from the boards and made a centring pass for Aiden Young. The latter one-timed it home in the slot for a 1-0 game.

Petes defenseman, Carson Cameron, joined the scoring late in the period. As Peterborough’s power play ended, Cameron pounced on a Yaniz Lutz rebound and buried it on a wide-open net for a 2-0 lead. The captain was not done yet as he got another loose puck from a rebound and a mad scramble. He saw another wide-open net and scored his second of the game in the final 16 seconds of the period.

Late in the third, Sudbury was able to break the shutout on the power play. Jan Chovan sniped it from a wide angle to make it 3-1. Just over two-and-a-half minutes later, Leon Kolorik had his own wide-angle bid and found its way in the back of the net for the dagger and eventual 4-1 win.

Petes goaltender Easton Rye made 22 saves, tying the league with his leading 28th win of the season.

@ptbo_canada The @Peterborough Petes beat the Wolves 4-1 for Pink in the Rink night on Feb. 7, 2026. #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #sports ♬ Winning - ROKKA

The Petes stay at home for their next game against the Ottawa 67’s for Boys and Girls Club night for 7:05 p.m. at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

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

Man Being Sought After Attempting to Steal Woman's Necklace With Distraction In Costco Parking Lot

The Peterborough Police Service was made aware of an attempted distraction theft in a Costco parking lot on Friday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 5:30 p.m., a woman in her 60s reported being stopped by a man in a vehicle while putting her groceries into her vehicle in the Costco parking lot near the gas bar. The man indicated that, as a religious tradition, he wanted to give the woman some jewellery to wear to support his ill mother, who was going into surgery. The woman agreed and the man put a necklace and a ring on her. While he was putting the ring on her finger, she noticed her own necklace in the man’s hand and took it back. At this point, the man drove away quickly.

The vehicle was described to the police as:

• An older model four-door grey sedan

• Two female passengers in the back

• A male passenger in the front seat. He was in his 30s and had a beard.

The driver was described to police as:

• In his late 40s to early 50s

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

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