Pet Fest Returns With Furry Fun and an 85th Birthday Celebration

By Scott Arnold

Pets, people and plenty of family fun are coming together as the Peterborough Humane Society prepares for one of its favourite events of the year.

Photo courtesy of peterborough humane society

Pet Fest returns Saturday, June 20 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Peterborough Humane Society shelter at 1999 Technology Drive, offering a free and family-friendly day packed with activities for animal lovers of all ages.

The annual event typically draws between 500 and 800 visitors, and this year carries extra meaning as the shelter celebrates its 85th birthday.

Organizers are introducing a pair of new additions they are especially excited about. A brand-new pet fashion show will make its debut with Tiffany Arcari serving as MC, while the Humane Society will also officially unveil its new memorial park on the shelter grounds.

Photo courtesy of peterborough humane society

Beyond the new features, visitors can expect a full day of activities including a vendor market, live music, kids' activities and free ice cream. Local food vendors Hanoi House, The Vine and Till Death BBQ and Catering will also be on site, and pets are welcome to attend.

Photo courtesy of peterborough humane society

Peterborough Humane Society Communications and Development Coordinator Désirée Kretschmar said Pet Fest gives the community an opportunity to connect with the organization in a more personal way and experience the space they helped create.

While some shirts and hats will be available for purchase, Kretschmar said the day is less about fundraising and more about opening the doors and sharing the shelter with the community that supports it year-round.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Volunteers Behind the Words Help Make Rotary Spelling Bee Buzz

By Scott Arnold

A team of dedicated volunteers helped keep the Rotary Club of Peterborough Spelling Bee running smoothly while creating a welcoming and encouraging experience for 120 local students.

Photo via facebook @PtboRotary

While students took centre stage at this year's Rotary Club of Peterborough Spelling Bee, a group of volunteers worked behind the scenes and at the front of the room to guide the event from start to finish.

The club recently recognized several key volunteers who took on some of the event's biggest responsibilities. Those roles included emcee Tony Grady, host Hannah Routly, head judge Scott Pepin, arbiter Mary Anne Greco and judges Tricia Ring, Karen Fisher, Ellen Mortlock and Jaimie Donohue.

From helping students navigate the competition to applying rules fairly and making quick decisions in real time, each role required preparation, focus and teamwork throughout the day.

The spelling bee welcomed 120 students in Grades 4 through 8, with volunteers helping create a positive environment for participants and their families.

The Rotary Club said those positions demand concentration, fairness and a willingness to handle difficult decisions, all while ensuring students feel supported during the event.

The organization also noted that support from volunteers plays a major role in allowing the spelling bee to remain free for participating students.

Their efforts continue to help promote literacy, learning and confidence for young people across the community.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Saturday Night Racing Roars Back at Peterborough Speedway

By Scott Arnold

Champions stole the spotlight as Peterborough Speedway’s 2026 season opener delivered packed grandstands, familiar winners and plenty of momentum heading into the weeks ahead.

Defending Trailers Plus Ontario Legend Car Series champion dawson drimmie — photo courtesy Jessica Blair – Follow Me Photography

Saturday night racing officially returned to Peterborough Speedway on May 16, and race fans turned out in big numbers for the first local event since last year’s Autumn Colours Classic.

The New Country KX 105 2026 season opener featured six headline divisions, with former track and series champions taking five of those victories.

In Battlefield Equipment Rental Bone Stock action, former champion Shawn Solomon captured the feature win ahead of reigning champion Alex Dallaire. Jacob Stavropoulos, Zac Cheng and Ryan Armstrong completed the top five.

Ryan Kimball led the way in the Late Model division, holding off former track champion Dan McHattie. Ollie Ferguson, Jacob Mercer and John Owen followed close behind.

Former title holder Bailey Jacobs took top spot in Super Stock racing over Colton Everingham. Former Peterborough Speedway champion Myles Tyson finished third, while Donovan Price and Dan Archibald rounded out the top five.

Doug Butler opened the season with a win in the SwitchTire Mini Stock A-main, finishing ahead of John Lavalle, Matt McGrath, Cameron McGlashen and Dave Bragg.

The Gordon family continued its strong run in Trent Lakes Complete Plumbing Renegade Truck competition as former champion Kyle Gordon took the victory. Scott Jacobs, Adam Chatten, Shawn Murray and Stephen Bierworth followed.

Meanwhile, Dawson Drimmie, the reigning 2025 Trailers Plus Ontario Legend Car Series champion, returned to victory lane after winning the feature race. Cole McFadden, Keaton Pipe, Adam Cuthbertson and multi-time champion Matt Haufe completed the top five.

The action continues Saturday, May 23 with Bone Stock, Renegade Truck and Late Model divisions returning, alongside the season debut of the Nadeau’s Collision Junior Late Models and GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods. Grandstand gates open at 5 pm and racing starts at 6 pm, with Kids Barrel Races planned during intermission.

Track owner and promoter J.P. Josiasse said organizers are hoping to build on the excitement from opening night and carry that energy throughout the season.

Fans can also look ahead to May 30, when Bone Stock, Mini Stock, Super Stock and Late Model divisions return alongside the first appearance of the Outlaw Midgets this season. Kid’s rides will be featured during intermission.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Six Young Entrepreneurs Selected For Summer Company Program After Record-Breaking Applicants

Community Futures Peterborough’s Business Advisory Centre has accepted six students into the Summer Company Program for training, mentorship and grant dollars to help them launch their new businesses this summer.

Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

“The Summer Company program was designed to bridge the gap between a great idea and a viable business for our next generation of leaders,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By providing students with both the financial capital and the professional mentorship they need, we are ensuring that young entrepreneurs don't just dream about starting a business—they actually do it. It is inspiring to see such a record-breaking number of applicants this year, and we are proud to support their journey.”

The Summer Company program provides those aged 15 to 29 with the opportunity to receive tools, guidance and grant dollars of up to $3,000 to start and launch their businesses.

Funded by the Government of Ontario, through the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) program, Summer Company is designed to support the entrepreneurial ambitions of youth in communities across the province.

Participants receive in-person training in key areas such as business planning, marketing, and financial management, along with one-on-one mentorship tailored to their individual needs.

Community Futures Peterborough received 40 applications for this year’s program and the following students have been selected:

• Aiden Budd, Dock to Driveway Detailing, Peterborough

• Zander Bromley, Clearview, Peterborough

• Caleb Galbraith, Joy Collectibles 3D, Lakefield

• Emma George-Peters, Kawartha Luxe Cottage Care, Peterborough

• Rutger Huntley, Peak Beach Volleyball, Millbrook; and

• Rielle MacDougall, Lake Safe Swim Lessons, Peterborough.

“Being accepted into the Summer Company program means that this idea is backed and validated by a fantastic team of individuals, which makes proceeding with everything feel far more achievable and realistic,” said Huntley. “The resources and connections from this program will be monumental for getting Peak Beach Volleyball of the ground and running. One of the scariest parts of beginning a business is the lack of promise of anything actually evolving, so to take the monetary risk out of that and have guidance is phenomenal.”

“These students are incredibly impressive,” said Allison Adam, BAC Officer. “They’re already eager to get started and are showing real potential for success.”

“Programs like Summer Company give young people the opportunity to turn their ideas into real businesses right here in Peterborough,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “These six entrepreneurs are demonstrating creativity, ambition and a strong commitment to our community. The City of Peterborough is proud to support Community Futures Peterborough’s Business Advisory Centre as they foster the next generation of business leaders, and we look forward to seeing their ventures grow this summer and beyond.”

“The Summer Company program empowers young people across our region to turn their ideas into real opportunities. It’s inspiring to see this next generation of entrepreneurs building skills, confidence, and businesses that will contribute to the strength and vitality of our rural and urban communities alike,” said Bonnie Clark, Warden, Peterborough County. “Peterborough County is proud of this outstanding program delivered by our trusted and valued partner, Community Futures Peterborough.”

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Peterborough Lakers Introduce Shuttle Trolley to Transport Fans to Select Home Games; Starts On Thursday's Home Opener

The Peterborough Lakers have introduced a trolley on select home games this season to transport fans to and from the game, starting with the Home Opener this Thursday against the Six Nations Chiefs.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Lakers.

Sponsored exclusively on opening night by 180 Hunter Bar & Restaurant, the trolley will pick up fans starting at 6:45 p.m. for transport to the Memorial Centre, with additional pickups leading up to game time.

There is no cost to fans to ride the Trolley.

The Trolley will return fans downtown approximately 15 minutes after the game.

The Lakers schedule is as follows:

• May 21 vs. Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• May 28 vs. Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• May 30 at Owen Sound North Stars at 4 p.m.

• June 1 at Oakville Rock at 7:30 p.m.

• June 4 vs. Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 10 at Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 18 at Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• June 21 at Cobourg Kodiaks at 6 p.m.

• June 25 vs. Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 29 at Oakville Rock at 7:30 p.m.

• July 2 vs. Cobourg Kodiaks at 8 p.m.

• July 7 at Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• July 9 vs. Owen Sound North Stars at 8 p.m.

• July 16 vs. Oakville Rock at 8 p.m.

• July 23 vs. Cobourg Kodiaks at 8 p.m.

• July 24 at Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• July 28 at Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• July 30 vs Owen Sound North Stars at 8 p.m.

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Peterborough Teaching Assistant Wins $75,000 On Instant Lucky Lines

After hitting the top prize on Ontario Lottery Gaming’s Instant Lucky Lines, Peterborough’s Tamara K. is $75,000 richer.

Photo courtesy of OLG.

The teaching assistant and mother of one has played several instant-win games, such as Plinko, Cash for Life and Lucky Lines.

The 48-year-old said she was at home when she checked her ticket using the OLG app on her phone.

“At first, I thought it was a mistake,” said Tamara. “I immediately took a screenshot and sent it to my mom. I couldn’t wait for her to reply so I called her right away.”

Tamara asked her mom to take a look at the picture she sent.

“Through tears of joy, I asked, ‘Is this for real?’ My mom was so happy for me. I also shared the news with my dad and daughter, and they were both thrilled.”

Tamara said she was euphoric when she won big.

“It’s an out-of-body experience,” she said. I dreamed I’d come down to the OLG Prize Centre someday to have my picture taken with a big cheque. Now, it’s happening, and I just can’t believe it at all.”

Tamara says she plans to invest for the future, embark on a cruise with her daughter, and take her mom to a travel destination of her choosing.

The winning ticket was purchased at Circle K on Clonsilla Avenue in Peterborough.

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Police Lay Careless Driving Charge After Flipping Car From Hitting Two Parked Vehicles

A 20-year-old driver is facing a careless driving charge after a collision involving two parked vehicles on Tuesday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 10 a.m., officers were called to the area of Monaghan Road and Cameron Street. A vehicle had collided with two parked cars before flipping. The driver was not injured and there were no people in the parked vehicles.

The driver was charged under the Highway Traffic Act with:

• Careless driving

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Peterborough Public Library and Bird Friendly Peterborough to Host World Migratory Bird Day On May 30

Celebrate the return of migratory birds to the Kawarthas during World Migratory Bird Day on May 30 at the Peterborough Public Library.

Photo courtesy of Dave Ellis.

Hosted by Peterborough Public Library and Bird Friendly Peterborough, the event takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Friends of the Library Community Room on the lower level.

“Welcoming back our feathered friends to Peterborough is a great way to connect with nature,” said City Councillors Joy Lachica and Kevin Duguay, council appointees to the Peterborough Environmental Advisory Committee. “The journey back home can be a long and difficult one for migratory birds with many obstacles to overcome. Celebrating that feat affirms our connection with and awe of the natural world.”

A Bird Friendly City proclamation will be read during the event at 11:30 a.m. by Councillor Lachica.

The celebration includes the following activities: 

• A chance to meet Steve the Kestrel and watch a raptor demonstration 

• Check out a display of the library’s birdwatching and nature kits 

• Speak with community organizations about protecting birds, conserving habitat, and providing bird education opportunities 

• Giveaway of birdhouse kits (while quantities last) 

Many local bird species migrate thousands of kilometres each spring to reach suitable habitats for breeding before heading south in the fall. Like yearlong resident birds, migratory birds are impacted by habitat loss and hazards such as light pollution and window strikes. 

“In a city like Peterborough, every bird-friendly choice like planting native species, reducing glass collisions, and dimming lights at night becomes a small act of stewardship,” said Thomas Luloff, Bird Friendly Peterborough vice chair. “Protecting birds isn’t just about preserving their songs; it’s about safeguarding the balance of the urban ecosystem we all depend on.” 

This event also celebrates the completion of the anti-bird collision window decals at the main branch of the Peterborough Public Library. Similar decals are currently being installed at the Healthy Planet Arena throughout May, increasing the number of City facilities with treated windows.

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Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign Raises $136,711.96 For Peterborough Humane Society and Five Counties Children's Centre

The community came together for the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign, raising $136,711.96 to be split between Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) and the Peterborough Humane Society (PHS), announced on Tuesday morning.

Nationally, the 2026 Smile Cookie Campaign raised a record‑breaking $23.3 million in support of more than 700 charities and community groups across Canada. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Each organization received $68,355.98 from the campaign, which ran from April 27 to May 3. Funds were collected from Smile Cookie purchases at any of the 18 participating locations in Peterborough, Bridgnorth, Lakefield and Curve Lake.

Five Counties is putting its proceeds towards its ‘Building Abilities for Life’ campaign that ensures kids can more easily access high-demand treatment services that will benefit them as they grow up.

@ptbo_canada This spring’s Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign raised $136,711.96 to be split between the Five Counties Children’s Centre and the Peterborough Humane Society. #p#ptbocanadaj#journalismf#fypn#newss#smilecookie ♬ Smile - Official Sound Studio

“Our community truly came together to make this all possible,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “We are grateful to everyone who volunteered their time, helped spread the word, purchased Smile Cookies, and supported this initiative. We are also very appreciative of Tim Hortons and its staff, who warmly welcomed our volunteers. Their ongoing generosity and commitment to community organizations is truly inspiring, and it was a pleasure to work alongside them and the Peterborough Humane Society.”

The Peterborough Humane Society is using its funds towards its animal care programs, including sheltering, medical care and adoptions for animals in need.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Tim Hortons owners for selecting us as a Smile Cookie beneficiary and for the opportunity to partner with both Five Counties throughout this campaign,” said Shawn Morey, PHS CEO. “We're proud to have more than 100 volunteers lend their time throughout the week. We extend our sincere thanks to the Tim Hortons staff who made us feel like part of the team. With the support of our community, many children, families, and pets will benefit.”

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Duffus Street Undergoing Watermain Replacement Next Month

Duffus Street watermain replacement is scheduled to begin in June and continue through August.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The scope of work includes a variety of installations, including a new water main, water services, hydrants, installation/adjustments of select frames, covers, and grates, asphalt and line painting and restoration, as required, on Duffus Street from Ford Street to Grady Avenue.  

Road closures will be implemented during various phases of the work and sidewalk closures will be carried out as required. 

Access for local traffic will be maintained during the closures, unless a separate notice is provided. Local traffic may experience delays within the construction limits.

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