Trent University to Undertake Major Rehabilitation For Faryon Bridge With Philanthropic Support

Trent University’s Faryon Bridge rehabilitation and renewal project is underway after more than six million dollars in donations were raised, announced on Thursday afternoon.

The Fayon bridge is widely regarded as one of the defining works within Canadian architect Ron Thom’s master plan for the University, brought to life by architect Paul Merrick and structural engineer Morden Yolles. File Photo.

The project is to preserve its structural integrity, support safe daily use, and protect its defining architectural features for future generations.

“The Faryon Bridge is central to the identity of Trent’s Symons Campus, and this rehabilitation project will help preserve both its architectural significance and role in everyday campus life well into the future,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Development. “We are incredibly thankful for the support this project has already received.”

The Faryon Bridge serves as the main connection between the east and west banks of the campus. According to the University, it supports thousands of daily crossings while carrying critical power and telecommunications infrastructure across the Otonabee River. Independent engineering assessments confirmed the need for significant rehabilitation work to maintain the bridge’s structural integrity and long-term reliability.

It opened in 1968 as part of the original vision for Trent. Its design has earned national recognition, including a merit citation from the Design Canada Concrete Awards in 1971.

The Faryon Bridge has been part of generations of Trent’s growth, from convocation and Head of the Trent to student chalking, postering and public expression. Several love stories, bearing witness to first kisses, engagements and wedding photos have occurred on the bridge.

That connection inspired Doug Kirk, chair of Trent’s Board of Governors, and his partner, Mary, to kickstart the fundraising campaign for the Faryon Bridge rehabilitation with a $1-million gift.

“The Faryon Bridge is tremendously important to the Symons Campus and to the Trent community,” said Kirk. “We made this gift to help ensure the bridge is restored fully and part of a defining Trent experience for the next generations of students. We encourage others to dig deep and help support this meaningful project.”

Work on the bridge began in February and will continue over multiple construction seasons. The project includes renewing the deck and balustrades, restoring the beams and arches that support the structure and strengthening the piers and foundations. Environmental stewardship will guide each phase of the work to protect the Otonabee River and surrounding habitat, and heritage stewardship will preserve its original design and visual presence on campus.

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Golf Fore the Kids This Summer with Discount Books Supporting Five Counties

By Scott Arnold

Golf season is teeing off with another chance to save on rounds across the province while supporting children and families through Five Counties Children’s Centre.

golfers will have a chance to save big this summer while supporting five counties children’s centre

The 2026 edition of the Golf Fore All book is now available and organizers say supplies are already becoming limited as golfers prepare for the season ahead.

The annual discount book features more than 750 golf discounts, including over 210 two-for-one green fee offers at participating courses.

The books are being sold for $65 cash, with proceeds supporting programs and services offered through Five Counties Children's Centre.

books can be ordered by email at mjackson@fivecounties.on.ca or by calling 1 888 779 9916 ext. 248

Organizers say the fundraiser gives golfers an opportunity to save money throughout the season while also helping local children and families access important supports and services.

With demand already building, anyone interested in picking up a copy is encouraged to order while quantities remain available.

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

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Music, Theatre and Summer Nights Return to Traill College Amphitheatre

By Scott Arnold

Free live performances will once again fill downtown Peterborough this summer as Traill College unveils its 2026 William and Nona Heaslip Foundation Summer Festival lineup.

summer music and theatre returning to catharine parr traill college (photo via trent university)

Trent University’s Catharine Parr Traill College has announced the return of its free weekly summer music and theatre series, running from June through August at the Jalynn Bennett Amphitheatre on Dublin Street.

The outdoor festival features a mix of theatre, folk, jazz, improv, classic rock and storytelling performances, with shows moving indoors to Bagnani Hall if weather becomes an issue. Refreshments will also be available for purchase on-site.

The season opens June 4 with Munsch Goes Wild, presented by New Stages Theatre, featuring actor M. John Kennedy performing energetic adaptations of Robert Munsch stories geared toward audiences young and old.

Comedy takes over June 11 as improvisers Linda Kash and Kerry Griffin headline Kash & Kerry & Friends: An Improv Variety Show alongside special guests.

The musical lineup includes classic rock band Four Lanes Wide on June 18, contemporary folk artist Irish Millie on June 25 and the Peterborough Concert Band on July 30.

Other performances throughout the summer include jazz group Carpe Noctem, songwriter and poetry collaboration Dueling Disciplines, folk-rock act I, the Mountain and a theatrical Summer Soiree presented by New Stages Theatre to close out the festival Aug. 20.

One of the festival’s featured performances arrives Aug. 13 with Footnote to Freedom, a new Canadian musical written and performed by Beau Dixon and Lance Dixon. The production tells the story of their grandfather, Private George Dixon, who served in Canada’s first and only all-Black battalion during the First World War.

Organizers say the annual festival continues to provide an accessible and welcoming opportunity for the community to experience live arts and entertainment throughout the summer in downtown Peterborough.

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

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City of Peterborough Seeking Performers, Vendors and Community Groups For Canada Day Celebration

The City of Peterborough is seeking performers, makers, and food vendors to apply to be part of this year’s Canada Day celebrations.  

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The City annual Canada Day celebration takes place on July 1 at Del Crary Park, following the Canada Day parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. The celebration in Del Crary Park will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.   

Local artisans, food vendors, entertainers and community organizations are invited to apply to be part of a vibrant, family-friendly event along the waterfront. 

This year, a new partnership with Musicfest will see performers take to the stages in Del Crary Park in the afternoon.

Those interested in participating can apply online. Applications can also be picked up at Service Peterborough, City Hall.

The deadline to apply to be a vendor is June 11 at 4:30 p.m.  

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An Unlikely Snack Time Friendship Between a Chipmunk and Duck

By Scott Arnold

A quiet snack for a chipmunk turned into an unexpectedly wholesome moment when a duck wandered over to join the feast.

chipmunk and duck enjoying a quiet snack for two (Photo by scott arnold)

Instead of running off, the chipmunk stayed put as the two calmly shared peanuts side-by-side from a red lid on the ground in a Peterborough park.

fur and feathers flocking together (photo by scott arnold)

proof that food can bring anyone together (photo by scott arnold)

The unlikely pair appeared completely comfortable together, creating a moment that looked more like old friends catching up than two wild animals meeting by chance.

chippy and daffy — could be the next big pixar movie (photo by scott arnold)

sharing is caring (photo by scott arnold)

It was one of those simple moments that makes you stop for a second. No rushing, no fighting over food, just two completely different animals quietly getting along over a shared snack.

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

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Peterborough Musicfest Turns Up the Volume on Local Talent With Expanded Future Sound Series

By Scott Arnold

More emerging artists will take the stage at Del Crary Park this summer as Peterborough Musicfest expands its Future Sound Series for the 2026 season.

cogeco crew all set for the return of the future sound series at peterborough musicfest

Peterborough Musicfest has announced the return of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, with the showcase growing to 14 performances across the festival’s 16 concert nights.

After debuting in 2025, the series quickly became a fan favourite by giving local and up-and-coming performers the chance to open for the festival’s headline acts.

The performances will run from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm on select Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer, featuring artists from across Peterborough and the Kawarthas spanning genres including folk, indie-pop, country, rock, reggae and alternative music.

Organizers say this year’s lineup includes a mix of returning favourites and new performers from around the region. Featured performances from Graeme Jonez and James N. Wilson are also being supported through The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund.

Cogeco Manager of Programming and Community Relations David Feeley said the company is excited to continue supporting a program that helps spotlight the next generation of local musicians while strengthening community culture.

Peterborough Musicfest Senior Events Manager Matt Williams said the series has become one of the festival’s most exciting additions and provides local artists with a major opportunity to perform in front of Musicfest audiences before the nightly headliners take the stage.

The Future Sound Series is part of Musicfest’s ongoing effort to support live music and provide barrier-free cultural experiences for the community.

Now entering its 39th season, Peterborough Musicfest remains Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival, drawing crowds to Del Crary Park each summer for a mix of internationally recognized performers, Canadian talent and local artists.

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

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Gourmet Cookies Hit Peterborough As Crumbl Hosts Grand Opening Friday Morning

Popular gourmet cookie franchise Crumbl has planted its flag in Peterborough and is hosting its grand opening at 8 a.m. this Friday.

Hamed Faizi, Crumbl Peterborough owner (right) and his wife Asma Faizi (right) during the media and content creator sneak peek day. Faizi plays to open locations in Barrie and Sudbury. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Located at 1154 Chemong Rd., the small dessert franchise has nearly 30 locations across the country and several more in the United States. Owner Hamed Faizi said his product is unlike any other cookie that people have had.

“It is very tasty. It's gooey inside, that's what people like,” he said. “There's a lot of work that goes into that one cookie. It’s very unique in flavour.”

The first 100 customers at the grand opening receive a free T-shirt. Anyone who comes on Friday can enter a ballot to win a free cookie every week for a year. Faizi said he has received massive support since he announced he was opening a location in Peterborough.

“I love this brand. I know people are very excited,” he explained. “I get a lot of messages, I get lot of responses and I think it's really going to do great here.”

Crumbl has several regular menu cookies such as chocolate chip, pink sugar, brownie batter and s’mores. The bakery features weekly rotating flavours that change every Monday. Showcased flavours this week include oatmeal raisin, lemon poppy seed, peanut butter cup brownie (with Reese’s), s’mores cookie thins, strawberry cheesecake and Biscoff cheesecake.

Featured cookies at the sneak peek were the Cookies & Cream Krispy Bar, peanut butter cup brownie (with Reese’s), chocolate chip cookie and strawberry cheesecake. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Despite not being from Peterborough and planning to open other locations in Barrie and Sudbury, Faizi highlighted the importance of hiring locally for his business, as a vast majority of his staff are students from Peterborough.

“I have other businesses too so when I open in a town, I only hire from that community,” he explained. “The whole staff is from Peterborough.”

@ptbo_canada @Crumbl has just hit Peterborough and its grand opening is on May 29, 2026 at 8 a.m.! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #crumbl ♬ COOKIES - Tokyo Machine

Cookies are available in either mini or large size. They can be purchased as singles, a mini three-pack, four-pack, six-pack, party box or Graduation Bundls. Crumbl also sells dirty soda which consists of pop mixed with cream, flavoured syrups and/or fruit juices. They are customizable with over 40 flavours.

The following are Crumbl’s store and delivery hours:

• Mon. to Thur.: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Fri. and Sat.: 8 a.m. to midnight

• Sunday: Closed

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Residents Invited to Help Shape Peterborough’s Transportation Safety Program

The City of Peterborough invites residents to learn about and provide input on the development of the City’s new Transportation Safety Program.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A drop-in style Public Information Centre will be held on June 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Healthy Planet Arena. 

City staff and the project team are available to share information, answer questions, and gather feedback from the community. 

Residents can also participate through the project page online. Feedback can be submitted through an interactive map and a survey. The survey will remain open until June 21 at 11:59 p.m.  

Public input will help inform the development of the Transportation Safety Program and support the City’s efforts to create safer streets for everyone in Peterborough. 

The City is developing a comprehensive 15-year Transportation Safety Program to substantially reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries across the community. The plan will guide the prioritization and implementation of road safety improvements in a coordinated, proactive and sustainable way. 

Building on previous initiatives such as the Transportation Master Plan, the Neighbourhood Traffic Calming Policy and speed limit reductions in school areas, the program will help shape safer streets and more comfortable travel for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, transit users and drivers. 

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Peterborough County Warden Recieves Rob Ford Community Leader Award for Cross-Border Leadership through EOWC

For her leadership and service, Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark has been named the recipient of the Rob Ford Community Leader Award, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus.

The award recognizes her leadership, dedication to public service, and significant contributions to strengthening communities through her work advancing cross-border collaboration at the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) as its Chair.

The Rob Ford Community Leader Award is presented annually by the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative and Earl Provost, Ontario’s Agent-General in Chicago, on behalf of the Government of Ontario.

The award honours individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service, regional advocacy, and grassroots engagement.

According to the County, Clark has helped elevate the voice of rural Eastern Ontario on the international stage through her work with the Caucus. She also helped advance partnerships between Canada and the United States, particularly across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence regions.

A formal presentation took place earlier this month at the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Annual Conference.

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Peterborough Police Investigate Vehicle Collision After It Left the Road and Injured a Pedestrian

The Peterborough Police Service Traffic Unit is investigating an incident in which a vehicle left the road and struck a pedestrian in the area of Charlotte Street and Reid Street on Wednesday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The incident occurred at roughly 3:45 p.m., when a 43-year-old pedestrian was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment of several injuries. The 78-year-old driver was not injured.

The road was closed for several hours while the Traffic Unit reconstructed the scene of the collision. The investigation is continuing at publication of this article.

Anyone with information or video footage is asked to contact the Traffic Unit at 705-876-1122 x289 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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