Peterborough County-City Paramedics Welcome 23 New Team Members

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough County-City Paramedics (PCCP) is growing its ranks with the addition of 23 new paramedics who are now helping serve communities across the region.

Peterborough county-city paramedics announced the hiring of 23 new recruits (photo via instagram @ptboparamedics)

The service announced week that 23 new paramedics have joined the team as part of its spring intake.

Among the group are members of the service's first cohort of graduates who have now officially transitioned from students into professional paramedics.

pccp have strengthened their team with the addition of 23 new members (photo via instagram @ptboparamedics)

The milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter for the graduates as they move into front-line roles responding to calls and providing care throughout the community.

In welcoming the new recruits, PCCP highlighted the experience, dedication and compassion they bring to the profession and expressed confidence in the impact they will have on residents they serve.

The additions strengthen the local paramedic service as it continues to respond to the healthcare needs of communities across the region.

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

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Lakers Come Up Short in Oakville Despite Third-Period Push

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough battled back several times but couldn't overcome an early deficit in an 11-9 road loss to Oakville on Monday night.

LAkers dylan hutchison protects the ball from oakville’s Jake darlison (photo courtesy of ryan mccullough)

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers dropped their second game of the Major Series Lacrosse season, falling 11-9 to the Oakville Rock at the Toronto Rock Athletic Centre.

Oakville controlled the early stages, building a 3-0 lead before Justin Sykes put the Lakers on the board late in the opening period.

The Lakers cut the deficit to one early in the second when Ennismore James Gang call-up Liam Vollans scored his first Major Series Lacrosse goal. Oakville responded with three straight goals, however, and carried a 6-3 lead into the final frame.

Peterborough made a push in the third period, getting a pair of power-play goals from Taite Cattoni and two goals from Rob Hellyer. Vollans added his second of the night, while Cam Milligan and Liam Patten also found the back of the net.

Despite the comeback effort, Oakville answered when needed and held off the Lakers to secure the victory.

Vollans' two-goal performance marked a memorable night for the call-up, while Hellyer led the Lakers offensively with six points on two goals and four assists. Cattoni finished with three points, and Mike Robinson chipped in four assists.

Goaltender Deacan Knott made 44 saves in his second start of the season.

With the loss, the Lakers' record moves to 2-2 on the young Major Series Lacrosse schedule, with their next game set for Thursday at home against Brooklin.

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

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Trent University Statistician Receives Two National Awards for Teaching Excellence

Dr. Wesley Burr, associate professor and chair of Mathematics & Statistics at Trent University, is the recipient of two national honours for teaching excellence, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Burr received the Statistics Society of Canada’s (SSC) 2026 Early Career Educator Award and the Canadian Mathematical Society’s (CMS) 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award. 

“Stemming from his ability to combine expertise with enthusiasm and curiosity, Dr. Burr’s work is transforming the experience of learning math and stats for countless learners,” says Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Some students are intimidated by mathematics, and Wesley is effectively changing that experience. He is helping students build confidence and competence in their learning journey of statistics. These national honours recognize Dr. Burr’s commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.” 

“Mathematics and statistics are fundamental for life and learning, particularly in the sciences, but like a language, you have to practice and speak it regularly to gain fluency. All it takes for kids to believe they can't do math is one bad year, so people close that door too early and shut themselves off from some really interesting possibilities,” explained Burr. “Like a story, courses in math and stats should take students on a journey. Students start somewhere, arrive somewhere else, and along the way they’re connecting ideas, reinforcing concepts and growing.”

Since joining Trent in 2016, Prof. Burr has taught 19 different courses, some as many as 13 times. 

This month, Burr will formally receive the CMS Excellence in Teaching Award at the 2026 CMS Summer Meeting in Saint John, N.B. and the SSC Early Career Educator Award at the 2026 SSC Annual Meeting in Hamilton.

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Petes Forward Adam Novotný Takes Next Step at NHL Combine

By Scott Arnold

One of the top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft is spending this week in Buffalo as Peterborough Petes forward Adam Novotný attends the NHL Scouting Combine.

PEterborough petes forward adam Novotný looking to impress at nhl combine in buffalo (photo courtesy of peterborough petes)

The 18-year-old Petes forward is among 90 players invited to the 2026 NHL Scouting Combine, which runs from June 1-6 at KeyBank Center and LECOM HarborCenter in Buffalo, New York.

The annual event gives all 32 NHL teams a chance to meet with draft-eligible prospects through interviews, medical evaluations and fitness testing ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26 and 27.

Novotný is one of 20 players from the Ontario Hockey League invited to this year's combine and arrives in Buffalo after a strong season in Peterborough.

The native of Czechia recorded 34 goals and 31 assists for 65 points in 58 games with the Petes during the 2025-26 regular season. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound forward also added 22 penalty minutes.

The combine is considered the final major showcase before the NHL Draft, giving teams an opportunity to learn more about many of the game's top young players both on and off the ice.

Novotný heads into the week ranked 14th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, putting him firmly in the conversation as one of the top prospects available later this month.

A total of 56 forwards, 29 defencemen and five goaltenders will take part in the combine as players look to make one final impression before hearing their names called on draft day.

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

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Five Counties Children’s Centre Receives $30,000 Donation From Kawartha Tri‑Sport Towards Essential Services

After a three-day fundraising event in Ennismore, Kawartha Tri‑Sport Tournament organizers donated $30,000 to Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) towards its essential services, announced on Monday.

Christina Scott, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizer (right) with Kassie Graham, FCCC’s Community Engagement Coordinator (right) with the donation of $30,000. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

These services include speech therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and specialized programs that build abilities for life.

The funds are part of the $100,000 that was raised overall at the most recent Kawartha Tri-Sport Tournament – the 10th anniversary of the event that features baseball, hockey and golf.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kawartha Tri‑Sport and everyone who took part in this year’s tournament,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “This generous contribution will directly support children and youth in our community, helping them access the therapy services they need to grow, learn, and thrive. We’re honoured to be part of an event that brings people together to make such a meaningful difference.”

Along with Five Counties, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizers donated funds to Down Syndrome Canada and to local families in need of support.

“We are so proud to give back to the community that has given so much to us and our families,” says Christina Scott, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizer. “Supporting Five Counties is just one small way we can make a difference together. Kawartha Tri-Sport is so grateful to be part of something that makes a positive impact.”

The annual Kawartha Tri‑Sport tournament was launched in 2016. It brings together athletes, volunteers, and supporters for a weekend of friendly competition and community spirit. Since its inception, the Kawartha Tri-Sport event has raised more than $400,000 for local charities.

Scott says charities supported by Tri-Sport often have a personal connection to the organizers. “We are so honoured to support organizations that make a difference in people’s lives,” said Scott. “We are also still overwhelmed by what’s been achieved. It all comes down to the people that support our mission every year and the generosity of our community, businesses, participants, family and friends.”                                             

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Ontario Government Investing Over $2 Million to Connect 4,762 People to Primary Care In Peterborough-Kawartha

The Ontario Government has invested over $2,019,200 this year to connect up to 4,762 people in Peterborough City and County to a family doctor or primary care provider by 2029.

Photo courtesy of Dave Smith.

“This investment to enhance local healthcare access showcases our government's absolute commitment to connecting everyone in our region to primary care,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By delivering this vital funding directly to our local health teams, we are ensuring that thousands of unattached patients across Peterborough City and County will have a reliable, high-quality place to turn for medical care closer to home. This funding will significantly impact the lives of local families and relieve pressure on our broader healthcare system.”

Peterborough Family Health Team (PFHT), in partnership with the 360 Nurse Practitioner Clinic, the Peterborough Community Health Centre, and the Peterborough Newcomer Health Clinic, is establishing a process for accepting new patients and will communicate it to the local community.

PFHT was funded through the latest call for proposals under the Primary Care Action Plan, with all 124 teams receiving funding expected to connect another 500,000 patients to primary care across Ontario. Each team has established a plan to attach a high proportion of unattached people in their community, including those on the Health Care Connect waitlist.

In the 2026 Budget, the province is also increasing overall funding for the plan to $3.4 billion between 2025 and 2029.

“This announcement represents a major investment in primary care for our community,” said Duff Sprague, CEO of the Peterborough Family Health Team. “Along with increased funding for the PFHT Connect Clinic, the Government is also introducing system changes that will allow patients to be attached directly to the Peterborough Family Health Team.”

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Step Back in Time With Trent Valley Archives' Biggest Tour Season Yet

By Scott Arnold

From true crime tales and ghost walks to local music history and wartime Peterborough, there's something for every history lover in the 2026 tour lineup.

elwood jones leads participants on a trent valley archives walking tour last month
(photo via instagram @trentvalleyarchives)

History is coming to life across Peterborough once again.

Trent Valley Archives has unveiled its full 2026 local history tour season, featuring 18 walking tours through Downtown Peterborough, Ashburnham, and Little Lake Cemetery. The tours begin this month and continue through November, offering plenty of opportunities to discover stories from the city's past.

Whether you're fascinated by true crime, curious about the people who helped build Peterborough, or enjoy a spooky lantern-lit evening, this year's schedule has a little bit of everything.

A brand-new downtown tour is joining the lineup this year.

New for 2026 is "Mainstreet Music: Downtown Peterborough's Iconic Music Venues." The tour traces the history of the city's live music scene from the 1950s to today, highlighting the venues that helped shape generations of local musicians. Participants may even get the chance to step inside some of the venues that continue to support live music today.

Trent Valley Archives also offers private tours for groups of 15 to 25 people, making them a great option for clubs, organizations, or groups looking for a unique local experience.

To help people plan their outings, Trent Valley Archives has also released its 2026 tour rack card. The free guide features a photograph of local artist George Elliott signing his Market Hall sketch on the front and includes details on every downtown walking tour, Little Lake Cemetery tour, and ghost walk scheduled this year.

2026 tour cards are being provided this year by trent valley archives
(photo via instagram @trentvalley archives)

Copies can be picked up at locations including Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, Showplace, the Art Gallery of Peterborough, the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough Public Library, Holiday Inn, and other locations throughout Peterborough and Peterborough County.

The free guide features a photograph of local artist George Elliott signing his Market Hall
(photo via instagram @trentvalleyarchives)

The back of the rack card lists every tour in chronological order, along with dates, times, locations, and information on purchasing tickets.

For those unable to pick up a copy, the complete 2026 tour schedule and descriptions of each tour are also available on the Trent Valley Archives website.

With tours running right through November, there will be plenty of chances to discover a new story, revisit a familiar neighbourhood, and see Peterborough's history from a different perspective.

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

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City of Peterborough Introduces New Director, Financial Services

City of Peterborough has welcomed Darren Hancock into the role of Director, Financial Services.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Hancock has over 25 years of accounting and municipal finance experience, including 19 years with the City of Peterborough in senior financial leadership roles. He has previously served as Chief Accountant and Deputy Treasurer and has supported the City’s budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting and financial governance functions.  

“Darren brings extensive municipal finance experience, strong leadership and a deep understanding of the organization to this role,” said Richard Freymond, Commissioner, Finance and Corporate Support Services. “His expertise in financial planning, reporting and governance, combined with his strong commitment to public service, will help support the City’s ongoing efforts to strengthen financial sustainability, modernize financial systems and processes, and enhance transparency and service delivery. I am confident he will continue to play a key role in advancing the City’s long-term financial strategy and support the organization’s top priorities.” 

Darren holds a Bachelor of Accounting (Honours) from Brock University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant. In his new role, he will oversee corporate budgeting, financial analysis, accounting and reporting, treasury functions, taxation, utility billing and revenue services.

“Having been born and raised in Peterborough and having attended high school at PCVS, I had the opportunity to observe the heartbeat of the City from just across the street. I am honoured and excited to now serve as Director, Financial Services, where I am committed to fostering a collaborative, forward-thinking, and progressive approach that delivers trusted advice, strong financial stewardship, and innovative solutions in support of the City’s long-term sustainability and strategic priorities,” said Hancock. “Together, my team and I will continue to provide exceptional service while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and excellence for the City of Peterborough, its stakeholders, and the broader community.  I look forward to working collaboratively across the organization and community to help support the City’s continued success and future growth.” 

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Volunteers Invited to Help Create New Community Mural in Keene

By Scott Arnold

A new mural destined for the Otonabee Memorial Community Centre is giving residents a chance to leave their mark on a project designed to celebrate the community and bring people together.

residents are being invited to help paint a community mural (photo via facebook @volunteerptbo)

Volunteer Peterborough is helping recruit volunteer painters for a large-scale mural that will eventually be mounted on the exterior wall of the Otonabee Memorial Community Centre in Keene.

The 24-foot by eight-foot mural was designed by longtime resident Ellen Cowie, who drew inspiration from the area's farming, sporting, Indigenous and artistic communities. Cowie moved to Keene from Peterborough in 2019 and is playing a key role in bringing the project to life.

Community members are being invited to help paint the mural during four scheduled sessions on June 6 and 7. Time slots are available from 10 am to noon and from 1:30 pm to 4 pm each day.

No artistic experience is required. Organizers say artists and painting instructors will be on hand to guide participants of all skill levels throughout the process.

Painting supplies will be provided, though volunteers are encouraged to wear old clothes or bring a smock. Participants can register for one session or multiple sessions and are welcome to bring friends along.

Once completed, the mural is expected to become a new community landmark while reflecting many of the people, interests and traditions that make Keene unique.

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

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Perfect Weekend Ends With Tournament Title for Peterborough Lakers U22 Girls

By Scott Arnold

Five games, five wins and a championship trophy made for a memorable weekend for the Peterborough Lakers U22 girls.

Peterborough Lakers u22 girls went undefeated over the weekend (photo courtesy of dion gemmiti)

The Lakers put together a perfect 5-0 record to capture the Barrie Anthony Acchione Memorial Classic championship over the weekend.

Peterborough opened the tournament with an impressive 8-1 victory over the Burlington Blaze before defeating the Orangeville Northmen 5-1. The Lakers continued their strong run with a 7-5 win over the Wallaceburg Griffins and followed it up with another 7-5 victory over the host Barrie Bombers to secure a spot in the gold medal game.

Waiting for them in the championship final was Burlington. This time, the Blaze provided a much tougher test, but the Lakers found a way to get the job done, earning a 5-4 victory to complete the undefeated tournament run and bring home the title.

The championship was the result of a full team effort throughout the weekend from players Stella Burke, Claire Chambers, Marielle Collins, Payton Crough, Claire Crowley, Abby Drinkwalter, Christie Evans, Chloe Fife, Natalie Foster, Aly Gemmiti, Addisyn Hartwick, Jocelyn Jessup, Avery Johnston, Avery Mann, Madeleine McInnes, Skylee Nicholson and Ashlea Whyte.

The Lakers also received strong play between the pipes from goaltenders Emma Fisher and Zoey Quinlan.

Behind the bench, the team was led by head coach Nicci Johnston, along with assistant coaches Lexie Kinmond, Kelsey McWilliams and Hayley Bartlett. Jaelyn Terrion served as the team's trainer.

After winning all five games and overcoming a one-goal battle in the final, the Peterborough Lakers U22 girls returned home with a tournament championship and plenty of momentum heading into the rest of their season.

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

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