Public Asked to Select Film For 2026 Canada Day Movie Night

The City of Peterborough asks the community to vote for a film for the free Canada Day Movie Night at Quaker Foods City Square.  

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Movie-goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. The City will hand out free popcorn before the movie and host a s’mores station. The movie will begin at dusk or approximately 9 p.m. 

Movie fans can vote for one of the following options:

The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain is a heartfelt and emotional story told through the eyes of Enzo, a devoted dog who shares the journey of his owner, race car driver Denny Swift, who is passionate about racing. Enzo’s perspective offers profound insights into the complexities of life, highlighting resilience and the powerful bond between humans and their pets.

The film was filmed in Vancouver and British Columbia, with additional on-track scenes shot at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario.

The Big Year

The Big Year follows three men competing to see who can spot and identify the most bird species in North America in a single year: Brad Harris, a computer programmer; Stu Preissler, a corporate CEO; and Kenny Bostick, a record-holding birding champion. As their obsession grows, the film explores the personal sacrifices, challenges, and unexpected friendships that come with chasing a “big year” in birding.

The film was primarily shot in British Columbia, with scenes filmed in Squamish and Vancouver, and Canadian bird experts were brought in as advisors during production.

Gnomeo and Juliet

Gnomeo and Juliet is a whimsical animated retelling of Shakespeare’s classic love story, following Gnomeo and Juliet—two garden gnomes from rival families who fall in love despite their feud. Filled with humor, action, and heart, the film follows their journey as they try to be together against all odds.

The film was mainly produced in Toronto and features work from Canadian CGI animation company Starz Animation

Butterfly Tale

Butterfly Tale is a heartwarming animated adventure about Patrick, a young monarch butterfly born with an undeveloped wing who can’t fly. He sets off on a journey across North America to follow his dream of flight, inspired by the real-life migration of monarch butterflies. The film features original songs by Shawn Mendes and Johnny Orlando.

This film was made in Montreal as a Canadian production, featuring Canadian voice actors and a creative team of Canadian artists.

Each film has a Canadian connection, whether through cast and crew members or through filming locations and themes. 

The poll closes at 11:59 p.m. on June 19.  

Canada Day Movie night begins at 7:30 p.m. and marks the launch of the City of Peterborough’s Canada Day festivities. 

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Love Your Number Campaign Urges Residents to Keep 9-1-1 Address Signs Visible

By Scott Arnold

A new public safety campaign is reminding residents across the region that something as simple as a visible house number can make a major difference in an emergency response.

Love Your Number campaign is reminding residents the importance of keeping your 9-1-1 house number signs visible and maintained (screenshot via video from instagram @ptbocounty)

Peterborough County/City Paramedics, Peterborough County and the Otonabee-South Monaghan Fire Department have launched the Love Your Number campaign to encourage residents to ensure their civic address signs are clearly visible and properly maintained.

peterborough county launches love your number campaign in partnership with peterborough county-city paramedics and the otonabee-south monaghan fire department (screeshot from instagram @ptbocounty)

Officials are asking residents to check whether their 9-1-1 address signs are reflective, visible from both directions and free from obstructions such as brush, snow or overhanging tree limbs.

The reminders apply to both rural properties that use reflective 9-1-1 blades at laneway entrances and urban homes where clearly displayed civic numbers are essential for emergency response.

the importance of being prepared is being stressed with the love your number campaign (screenshot from video via instagram @ptbocounty)

In addition to visible signage, emergency services are also encouraging residents to take simple steps when help is on the way if it is safe to do so, including unlocking doors, turning on exterior lights, securing pets and preparing a list of medications.

Officials say clear and visible address signage helps first responders reach the right location faster, improving response times when every second counts.

residents are being urged to be prepared as peterborough county rolls out love your number campaign (screenshot from video via instagram @ptbocounty)

Residents with questions about civic address signage are encouraged to reach out to their local municipality for more information.

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

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Tributes Pouring in for Local Lacrosse Player Eric Hainer

By Scott Arnold

The lacrosse community is mourning the loss of Kawartha Fury player Eric Hainer, who died in a car accident while travelling home after competing in the team’s first-ever Medicine Cup tournament in Fenelon Falls.

the community is remembering Local lacrosse player eric hainer, who passed away over the weekend

In a Facebook message shared by the Fury, the team said the loss came shortly after a meaningful day of lacrosse that marked a milestone weekend for the program. Hainer had been part of the U22 roster competing at the event and was on the floor throughout the tournament.

The organization noted that Hainer’s presence was felt strongly during the Medicine Cup, where he scored both his first and last goals for the team during the event. He was described as a player who brought energy, respect, and a clear love for the game every time he stepped onto the floor.

Hainer is a PMLA alum, having come through the Peterborough Minor Lacrosse Association system. He is the son of Peterborough Jr A Lakers assistant general manager Mike Hainer and the brother of Jackson Hainer, a Lakers alumnus and current Trent Excalibur goaltender.

The Fury message highlighted Hainer’s connection to the roots and traditions of lacrosse, noting his use of a wooden stick and his appreciation for the cultural foundations of the sport.

Hundreds of messages and comments have been shared on social media as people express condolences. On Monday, a GoFundMe was set up to raise funds to support the family.

Support has been extended to his family, teammates, coaches, and friends as the lacrosse community continues to process the loss. The organization also encouraged players to lean on one another and continue to find connection in the game Hainer loved.

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

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Fleming College Hosting Free Lacrosse Event Celebrating The Creator’s Game

By Scott Arnold

Fleming College is inviting students and community members to take part in a free interactive lacrosse event that highlights the Indigenous roots and cultural significance of the sport.

Fleming college’s 2nd annual Lacrosse — the creator’s game is set for june 17 (photo provided by fleming college)

The event, titled Lacrosse – The Creator’s Game, will take place June 17 at the Sutherland Campus and is being hosted by Indigenous Student Services and Fleming Phoenix Athletics.

Organizers say the day is designed to explore the history, meaning and lasting legacy of lacrosse as Canada’s national summer sport, while also offering participants a chance to learn and play together.

Two featured speakers will take part in the event. They include Jim Calder, a Canadian Lacrosse and Sports Hall of Famer, author and pioneer of the game, as well as Justin Warner, a professional player, coach and founder of Liftlock Lacrosse Company.

The second annual event runs from 10 am to 3 pm, with participants asked to meet in Room D1 114 at the Sutherland Campus.

No registration is required and lunch will be provided for those attending.

Open to all experience levels, organizers say the event is meant to be an inclusive opportunity to learn more about lacrosse while celebrating its Indigenous origins and community connections.

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

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One Day, Hundreds of Helpers: United Way in Need of Volunteers for Day of Caring

By Scott Arnold

Community members are being invited to roll up their sleeves and help local agencies during United Way Peterborough and District's upcoming Day of Caring.

United way has put the call out for helpers to give back during their annual day of caring (photo via instagram @unitedwayptbo)

The annual volunteer initiative takes place June 26 and connects volunteers with projects that support organizations throughout the community.

According to United Way Peterborough & District, the day is designed to provide hands-on help for agencies that rely on volunteers and community support to carry out their work.

Projects will include gardening, landscaping, painting, outdoor maintenance and assistance with event-day activities. Organizers say there are opportunities available for both experienced volunteers and those looking to get involved for the first time.

The goal is to complete meaningful projects that can have a lasting impact on local agencies and the people they serve.

volunteers helping on a project during a previous united way day of caring (photo via instagram @unitedwayptbo)

United Way is currently seeking volunteers willing to donate their time and effort for the day, helping community organizations tackle projects that may otherwise be difficult to complete.

Anyone interested in participating can contact dayofcaring@uwpeterborough.ca to learn more about available opportunities and how to get involved.

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

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St. Peter's Wyatt McInnes Hurdles to Gold at OFSAA Championships

By Scott Arnold

St. Peter Catholic Secondary School student Wyatt McInnes brought provincial gold back to Peterborough after a strong performance at the 2026 OFSAA Track and Field Championships in St. Catharines on Saturday.

St. peter’s athlete wyatt mcinnes in action at 2026 ofsaa track and field championships (photo via instagram at spssathletics)

McInnes captured the gold medal in the novice boys 100-metre hurdles at the provincial championship, which was held at the Niagara Olympic Track and Field Complex.

The St. Peter athlete advanced to the final as the top qualifier after posting the fastest preliminary time of 14.48 seconds. He then ran 14.75 seconds in the final to secure the OFSAA title.

Wyatt Mcinnes was all smiles on podium after winning OFsaa gold in the 100m hurldes. Cameron Nanson of Kennedy collegiate in windsor took home the silver and noah anderson from loyola CSS in mississauga earned the bronze (photo via instagram @spssathletics)

McInnes finished first in a field of 24 athletes from across Ontario competing for the provincial championship, earning a gold medal for St. Peter and adding another provincial accomplishment to the school's successful athletics program.

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

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Community Support Continues to Grow Following Damage to Local Downtown Restaurant La Mesita

By Scott Arnold

A damaged storefront window has left downtown Peterborough restaurant La Mesita Restaurante facing an unexpected repair bill.

the front glass at la mesita on george street in downtown peterborough after it was smashed overnight on saturday (photo via facebook @lamesitacatering)

A message posted on the La Mesita Restaurante Facebook page included a photo of the damage, showing the restaurant's front window shattered, with what appears to be a circular hole near the bottom marking the point of impact.

Along with the picture, the message in the post said, "Wonder why this happens to many small business In downtown Peterborough. It will be a couple of grand. Don't even know what to rant about."

While few details about the incident were shared, the post quickly drew attention from the community. Within hours, it had generated hundreds of reactions, comments and shares, with many people expressing support for the business and frustration over the damage.

The window at la mesita was boarded up on sunday after the overnight damage (photo by Scott Arnold)

Owned by Martin Carbajal and his wife Kelly, La Mesita Restaurante has become a familiar name in Peterborough's food scene, serving authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by family recipes passed down from Martin's mother. The restaurant's focus has been on fresh, made-from-scratch dishes prepared with local ingredients and traditional Mexican flavours.

The damage now leaves the business facing an unplanned expense, with repairs expected to cost several thousand dollars.

As of Sunday night, the social media post continued to attract attention as customers and supporters reacted to the photo and shared their thoughts online.

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

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Holy Cross Hurricanes Storm Their Way to OFSAA Rugby Gold

By Scott Arnold

The Holy Cross Hurricanes are bringing another provincial championship back to Peterborough after capturing the OFSAA Girls A/AA Rugby title today in Stratford.

Holy Cross Hurricanes are bringing gold back to peterborough after winning ofsaa girls rugby championship in stratford
(photo courtesy of Sarah wade)

Entering the tournament as the top-ranked team, and as the defending two-time champions, Holy Cross lived up to its billing with a dominant run through the provincial championship field. The Hurricanes capped off their impressive weekend with a huge win over Bayside in the gold medal match to claim the OFSAA crown for the third straight year.

Holy cross hurricanes celebrate their championship win after capturing ofsaa rugby gold
(photo via instagram @ofsaarugbyaa_2026)

Holy Cross opened the tournament with a commanding 79-0 win over host F.E. Madill before defeating St. John Henry Newman of Scarborough 26-7 in its second game.

The Hurricanes continued their march toward the championship by earning a 22-10 victory over Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute, securing their place in the gold medal game.

In the final, Holy Cross capped things off in style with another big offensive performance when it mattered most, outscoring Quinte West’s Bayside Secondary School 52-10 to complete an undefeated tournament and secure the OFSAA title.

Holy cross hurricanes capped off an incredible season with an OFSAA championship win (photo courtesy of sarah wade)

The championship adds another memorable achievement to the school's strong tradition of athletic success and gives Holy Cross one more provincial banner to celebrate back home in Peterborough.

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

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Peterborough Jr. Petes Make $2,000 Donation to Community Care Peterborough's Gary Dalliday Memorial Golf Tournament

The Peterborough Minor Hockey Council Jr. “AAA” Petes, in partnership with the OHL Peterborough Petes, have donated $2,000 to the Community Care Peterborough’s Gary Dalliday Memorial ‘Caring for Our Communities’ Golf Tournament.

(From left to right) Walter DiClemente of the Jr. Petes; Pete Dalliday, Petes play-by-play broadcaster and Roger, Petes mascot. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The tournament is on Aug. 10 at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club in honour of Dalliday’s legacy. The tournament this year falls on the anniversary of his passing on Aug. 10, 2018 and pays tribute to his legacy.

Also known as “The Diller,” Gary was a CHEX-TV sportscaster, the radio voice of the Peterborough Petes and a longtime supporter of local sports. He was also a dedicated volunteer with Community Care Peterborough, delivering Meals on Wheels to those in need. He was an alumnus of Peterborough Minor Hockey and the Peterborough Petes.

All proceeds from this special event will support Community Care Peterborough’s Meals on Wheels program, providing nourishment and connection for seniors and adults living with disabilities, specifically in the City of Peterborough, West Selwyn Township, the Municipality of Trent Lakes and Curve Lake First Nation.

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Trent University Canada Research Chair Receives Polar Medal From Governor General of Canada

With his work for Arctic sovereignty and northern security, Trent University’s Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer has been awarded the Polar Medal from Mary Simon, former Trent chancellor and Governor General of Canada.

Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer (right) stands with fellow Polar Medal recipient Marie-Pierre Parenteau (left) and Governor General Mary Simon (middle) after the medal presentation ceremony. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“Whitney’s work on polar policy and research has helped shape Canada’s understanding and engagement in the North at a pivotal moment for our country,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Through leadership service and his role with the 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, he is advancing Canada’s work in Arctic sovereignty and security. It is an exception honour for Trent to see Whitney recognized with the Polar Medal.”

The Polar Medal is awarded to individuals who have provided outstanding service in support of scientific research and exploration relating to Canada’s polar regions and interests. A professor in the School for the Study of Canada at Trent University, Prof. Lackenbauer’s award-winning research explores the historical and socio-political dimensions of Arctic governance and the relationships between Northern peoples, their environment and federal policy.

“In 2026, I cannot say strongly enough how vital this work is—how much it matters to our country and to our shared future. For a long time, there was a disconnect between the needs of Arctic peoples and the decisions that shaped their lives, not to mention the legacy of colonialism,” said Simon. “Today, the Arctic is seen as a region of opportunity. Issues of security and sovereignty are coming to the forefront. Dr. Lackenbauer: thank you for your research on Arctic governance and for your commitment to security, notably as honorary lieutenant-colonel of the 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group.”

“With a proliferation of perceived security and sovereignty challenges through, to, and in the Arctic, it is more important than ever to characterize threats appropriately and to ensure that the right actors are empowered with the right tools to mitigate risks and respond as needed,” said Lackenbauer.

Prof. Lackenbauer has worked with the Canadian Ranger Patrol Group forovern a decade, which has been a source of knowledge and guidance for much of his work on community-centred policy and advancing knowledge of Arctic governance, Northern sovereignty and security. In 2025, he published TAKUNIQ: The Canadian Rangers and Canada’s High Arctic in an Era of Strategic Competition, based on his ongoing engagement in this capacity, working alongside Northern communities.

“The Canadian Rangers are the Canadian Armed Force’s eyes, ears and voice in the North, and Northern communities’ voice in the Canadian Armed Forces,” said Prof. Lackenbauer. “Most of the ‘exploring’ that I have done is with experts who are operating in their homeland, which they know intimately. If anything, I have learned to become an ‘expert’ in following their lead, listening to them and then being entrusted with telling stories of what they or we have experienced in hopes that this will improve policy, practice and public awareness.”

Created in 2015 as part of the Canadian Honours System, the Polar Medal was last awarded in 2019. Prof. Lackenbauer is the second Trent faculty member to receive the honour, following the late Arctic historian and author Dr. Shelagh Grant, one of the medal’s inaugural recipients in 2015.

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