Champions Celebrate Champions During Special Day of Lacrosse in Peterborough

By Scott Arnold

A day filled with lacrosse, laughter, and community support brought generations of Peterborough champions together while raising funds for several local causes.

organizer ernie ellement posing with the athletes (photo courtesy of cindy wilson)

The Peterborough Memorial Centre was buzzing with activity during Lacrosse Day for Our Champions, a community event that celebrated the city's rich lacrosse tradition while giving back to local organizations, including Special Olympics Peterborough.

two of the greatest players in the history of lacrosse, john grant sr and bobby allan
(photo by scott arnold)

The day began with free turf time for minor lacrosse players, giving young athletes the chance to get on the floor where so many Peterborough lacrosse memories have been made.

Later in the afternoon, some familiar names returned to action for a Legends and Alumni lacrosse game. Team Gold featured Bobby Allan, Carm Collins, Scott Self, Jim Gooley, Peter Guerin, Paul Evans, Darren Axford, Dean Porter, Josh Currier, Moose McIlmoyle, Kurt Johnston, Mike Burke, Peter Dalliday, Steve Evans, Josh Gilliam, Clayton Wade, Adam King, Paul Konkle and Rick Peel.

Team Gold enjoying time together after their big win (photo by scott arnold)

Team Blue included Johnny "Shooter" Davis, John Grant Sr., Jim Wasson, Len Powers, J.J. Johnston, Peter Nesbitt, Jeff Davis, Joe Todd, Frank Kylie, Jeff Ralph, Derrick Collins, Brian "Dalt" Downer, Jim Johnston, Craig Muir, Jason Clark, Ross Cowie, Jake Milligan, Steve Earl and Tyler Chambers.

The celebration continued in the evening with Storytime by the Legends at Sticks Sports Pub. The event featured stories and memories from decades of championship lacrosse in Peterborough.

legend jimmy wasson holding his mislabelled “jimmy wesson” name card (photo by scott arnold)

Sharing those stories were Bobby Allan, Carm Collins, J.J. Johnston, Don Barrie, Tim Barrie, Johnny Davis, Paul Evans, John Grant Sr., Joe Todd and Jimmy Wasson, with Peter Dalliday serving as master of ceremonies.

tim barrie telling a story as brother don looks on from the left and J.J. johnston in the middle
(Photo by scott arnold)

paul evans reminiscing about his lakers days while praising legend bobby allan (photo by scott arnold)

Jim Gooley entertains the crowd at sticks with a story from the past (photo by scott arnold)

joe todd on the mic during legends of lacrosse storytime on saturday (photo by scott arnold)

carm collins sharing his memories of playing lacrosse in peterborough

Johnny “shooter” davis telling a stories about some of his former laker teammates
(photo by Scott arnold)

The event was organized by Ernie Ellement of Boro Boys Seasonal Lacrosse, who helped bring together players, fans and community members for a day centred around giving back.

organizer ernie ellement and mc pete dalliday enjoying some down time after a full day of lacrosse
(photo by scott arnold)

Organizers said the event was all about champions supporting champions. Donations and proceeds from a raffle are being directed to Special Olympics Peterborough and Unified Champion Schools, while donations were also collected for Kawartha Food Share.

longtime laker volunteer dylan hawken took in the entire day

For many in attendance, the day was a reminder that Peterborough's lacrosse legacy extends far beyond championships. It continues through the people who built it, the young players following in their footsteps, and a community that continues to rally around the game.

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

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Have you checked your LOTTO 6/49 Gold Ball Numbers Yet? Winning $16 Million Ticket Sold in Peterborough

By Scott Arnold

Someone in Peterborough woke up today a whole lot richer after a lottery ticket purchased in the city last night landed a life-changing $16 million prize.

a $16 million lotto ticket was sold in peterborough saturday night

A LOTTO 6/49 Gold Ball jackpot worth $16 million was won in Saturday night's draw, and the winning ticket was purchased in Peterborough.

The win was announced by Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation on Sunday, confirming that the lucky ticket holder matched the winning Gold Ball selection in the May 30, 2026 draw.

For now, the identity of the winner remains unknown, which means plenty of people across Peterborough may be checking pockets, purses, wallets and glove compartments a little more carefully today.

A $16 million jackpot is enough to change a life in an instant, and before long, someone in the city will be doing just that.

OLG says the winning Gold Ball ticket was purchased in Peterborough. More details, including the winner's identity and where the ticket was sold, are expected once the prize is claimed.

Until then, Peterborough has a new millionaire. In fact, a multi-millionaire.

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

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Photos: Trent Valley Archives Portray Peterborough's Trials and Tribulations In the 1940s and 50s With Production of 'The Kid from Simcoe Street' at Canterbury Gardens

Trent Valley Archives is telling the tales of James Clarke’s Memoir 'The Kid from Simcoe Street' in a mini-production at Canterbury Gardens Retirement Residence on Thursday night.

Charlie Porter playing Young Jimmy (left) in a bustling scene with Kaza Hesselink playing Josh (right). All photos by David Tuan Bui.

Clarke is a former Ontario Superior Court Judge's from Peterborough. His 2012 memoirs focus on Peterborough’s trials and tribulations and his St. Peter’s Catholic Secondary School football teammate, Murray Byrne, as they grew up poor in post-war Peterborough in the 1940s and 1950s.

The performance is ahead of their four live productions at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre running from June 4 to 7. The first two shows start at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. matinee starts for the final two shows.

The production is directed by Drew Taylor-Grigg and written by Edward Schroeter, Gerry McBride and David Francis Clarke.

Tickets can be found on Market Hall’s website.

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Smile Cookie Campaign Delivers Sweet Boost for Local Healthcare and Food Security

By Scott Arnold

Thousands of cookies and plenty of community support helped raise more than $46,000 for two important Kawartha Lakes organizations.

Jacob Michaud, KLFS warehouse assistant, Mark Hutchinson, Tim Hortons operations manager, Erin Coons, RMHF CEO, Nancy Hutchinson, Tim Hortons general manager, Meaghan Chapman, Tim Hortons owner, Nick Chapman, Tim Hortons owner, Ashley Anderson, KLFS executive director, Charlene Vanderberg, KLFS board member, Heather Cockburn, KLFS board member

The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign in Lindsay achieved a major fundraising total for the Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation and Kawartha Lakes Food Source.

Officials announced today that the week-long campaign, held from April 27 to May 3, raised $46,472.66 through Smile Cookie sales at six Tim Hortons locations in Lindsay. The funds were split evenly between the two organizations, with each receiving $23,236.33.

The campaign supports advancements in patient care at Ross Memorial Hospital while also helping address food insecurity throughout Kawartha Lakes.

Both organizations thanked Tim Hortons owners Nick and Meaghan Chapman for selecting them as local charity partners during the national campaign.

Representatives from the RMH Foundation and Kawartha Lakes Food Source gathered at the Mount Hope Street Tim Hortons location to celebrate the results alongside the Chapmans.

RMH Foundation CEO Erin Coons said the campaign showed the impact local businesses and community support can have when rallying behind important causes. She also noted volunteers from both organizations worked together decorating cookies and promoting the fundraiser throughout the week.

Kawartha Lakes Food Source Executive Director Ashley Anderson said the campaign highlighted what can happen when businesses, volunteers and residents come together around a shared goal, adding the partnership helped support both local healthcare and food security initiatives.

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

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Two Crestwood Students Receive Peterborough Petes Education Fund Scholarships

After being selected by their coaches, Colby Kekki and Olivia Lewington have been awarded the Peterborough Petes Education Fund scholarships, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

“The Peterborough Petes Education fund was established by former Petes Board of Director’s member Pat Casey in the late 1970’s,” said Rod McGillis, Peterborough Petes Vice President. “We are proud to continue to give out these scholarships each year to deserving athletes and students. Pat always knew that education was a critical part of the Peterborough Petes program and his work has allowed for these scholarships to continue to current students and athletes.”

Kekki, a defenceman from Peterborough, attends Crestwood Secondary School and featured for the U18 AAA Petes this season, where he was coached by Scott Roche.

“Being picked for this award means a lot to me, especially being chosen by my coaches,” said Kekki. “I’m really thankful to the Petes organization for all the support this year. Playing for the U18 Petes was a great experience and helped me grow a lot both on and off the ice. I’m honoured to receive this award and grateful for everyone who was part of the season.”  

“Colby Kekki has been an outstanding member of our U18 AAA Petes hockey program over the past two seasons,” said Roche. “He played a key role on our blueline, regularly logging heavy minutes in critical situations. Beyond his play on the ice, Colby was a quiet leader and respected teammate. One of the most impressive examples of his commitment and character is that Colby never missed a single game during his two years with our organization. Most importantly, Colby is an exceptional young man who represents our program with class and humility.”

Lewington, a centre from Peterborough, also attends Crestwood Secondary School and played for the U18 AA IceKats this season, where she was coached by Chris Moher.

“Thank you so much to the Peterborough Petes organization for this generous award,” exclaimed Lewington. “I am truly honoured! I would also like to thank the Peterborough IceKats and my coach Chris Moher. I played for the IceKats for 11 years and some of my best memories have been spent on the ice with my teammates and coaches. Hockey is more than a sport, it has helped me make friends and develop skills off the ice! I am looking forward to going to university in the fall to study nursing at Trent University. Hockey will always be a part of my life and I hope to give back to the Peterborough hockey community in the years to come.” 

“Olivia was an exceptional captain for the U18 AA IceKats during her final season of minor hockey in Peterborough,” said Moher. “A proud IceKat for many years, she consistently demonstrated a selfless, team first attitude and led by example both on and off the ice. Her competitive spirit, dedication and unwavering consistency earned the respect of her teammates and coaches alike, making her a deserving recipient of this award.”

The Peterborough Petes Education Fund also gives our six $500.00 scholarships to each local high school (St. Peter, TASS, Adam Scott, Kenner, Crestwood and Holy Cross) to be presented to a graduating student who has improved themselves through their hard work during their high school years.

“The Peterborough Petes would also like to thank the Petes AAA minor hockey organization for running the 50/50 at Peterborough Petes home games and for their support of the Petes,” said McGillis.

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Toronto Man Arrested From George Street/Parkhill Road Shooting Earlier This Year

A second man wanted in connection with a shooting earlier this year in the George Street North and Parkhill Road area has been arrested.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

Through continued investigation, Peterborough Police Service officers with the Major Crime Unit identified the second suspect as 24-year-old Zuhib Mohamed of Toronto. On Wednesday, in conjunction with the Peterborough Police Service Emergency Response Team, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Toronto. 

Mohamed was arrested and charged with:

• Attempt to Commit Murder using Firearm

• Aggravated Assault

• Robbery using Firearm (Restricted or Prohibited)

The accused was held in custody and appeared in court on Thursday.

The Peterborough Police Service is not looking for any other suspects in connection with this incident.

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Deacon Knott Steals the Show as Lakers Light Up Memorial Centre in Breakout Win Over Brampton

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Lakers erupted for 16 goals Thursday night while a hometown goalie lived out a lifelong dream in his first MSL start.

lakers captain robert hope during the ceremonial face-off (photo courtesy of david pickering)

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers picked up their first win of the 2026 Major Series Lacrosse season with a dominant 16-6 victory over the Brampton Excelsiors at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Justin Sykes and Taite Cattoni led the offensive attack with three goals each, while rookie goaltender Deacan Knott made 34 saves in his first career MSL start.

deacon knott was all smiles after picking up his first win (photo courtesy of david pickering)

Knott said wearing a Lakers jersey and getting the start was something he had dreamed about since he first picked up a lacrosse stick as a kid.

curve lake’s deacon knott made first msl start in goal for lakers (photo courtesy of david pickering

Post game interview with Lakers goalie Deacon Knott (Video courtesy of Cogeco YourTV)

The Lakers opened the scoring on a power-play goal from Braedon Saris before Taite Cattoni struck just 13 seconds later. Sykes added a highlight-reel finish off a behind-the-back pass from Holden Cattoni, while Adam Thistlethwaite scored his first of the season during a strong opening frame that ended with Peterborough leading 7-2.

Rob Hellyer’s late first-period goal proved to be the game winner.

Peterborough kept rolling in the second period as Taite Cattoni, Adam Jay and Jr. A call-up Mason Cree all scored. Cree’s marker was his first career MSL goal.

The Lakers eventually built a 15-3 lead before Brampton added a late push with three straight goals, including two on the power play.

Peterborough outshot Brampton 51-40, while Jake Withers dominated at the faceoff dot by winning 20 of 25 draws.

A crowd of 2,602 took in the game, including roughly 400 members of the Peterborough Minor Lacrosse Association who joined the Lakers on the floor during the national anthem.

close to 400 kids from the pmla attending thursday’s lakers game (photo courtesy of david pickering)

The Lakers now hit the road for games in Owen Sound on Saturday and Oakville on Monday before returning home Thursday, June 4 against the Brooklin Lacrosse Club for John Grant Jr. Night.

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

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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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