Jr. C Lakers One Win Away From Advancing to Next Round

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. C Lakers are one win away from advancing after opening their first-round playoff series with back-to-back wins over the Huntsville Hawks.

The Jr C. lakers have a chance for the sweep on friday at 8pm at the pmc when they host the huntsville hawks for game 3 of their playoff series (photo via facebook @peterboroughjrclakers

Peterborough earned an 8-4 victory in Game 1 at the Healthy Planet Arena on Saturday before picking up an 8-7 road win in Game 2 on Sunday to take a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

Braden Hockaday picked up the win in net in the opener, while Chase Brown earned the victory in Game 2.

The Lakers led 8-3 in the third period on Sunday before Huntsville scored four times to make things interesting. Kyson Campbell's goal with 5:52 remaining stood up as the game winner.

The series returns to the Peterborough Memorial Centre for Game 3 on Friday at 8 pm. A Lakers victory would send Peterborough to the second round.

Game 1 points: Ryder Perry (3G, 2A), Braxtin Howard (4A), Kennen Withers (2G), Patrick Curtain (1G, 1A), Hayden Heigh (1G, 1A), Charlie Evans (1G), Quinn Jacobs (1A), Bobby Crowe (1A), Kyson Campbell (1A), Jared Martinell (1A).

Game 2 points: Braxtin Howard (4G, 4A), Hayden Heigh (2G, 2A), Kyson Campbell (1G, 3A), Patrick Curtain (1A), Ricky Bevan (1A), Brady Higgs (2G, 2A), Damon Buttus (2G, 2A), Hunter Crawford (1G, 2A), Carson Frasier (1G, 2A), Jacob Barney (2A)

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

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Registration to Open For Fleming College's Fall Continuing Education Courses This Thursday

Online registration for Fleming College’s fall continuing education courses opens this Thursday.

File Photo.

The Fall 2026 intake features courses and certificate programs including Health and Community Services, Environmental, Business, Languages and Skilled Trades. 

Fleming’s Continuing Education full course and program offerings and registration are available online.

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Peterborough Petes Forward Adam Levac Selected 108th Overall In the NHL Draft By the Detroit Red Wings

It was an 18th birthday to remember for Peterborough Petes forward Adam Levac, as the Detroit Red Wings selected him 108th overall in round four at the 2026 NHL Entry Draft in Buffalo, N.Y. on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

Levac becomes the second Pete to be drafted in the 2026 NHL Draft, with Adam Novotny being taken 24th overall by the Vancouver Canucks on Friday night.

“It’s an honour and a dream come true to be selected in the NHL Draft by the Red Wings,” exclaimed Levac. “This is a great birthday gift and I’m excited to be able to enjoy it with all of my family.”

The Levac family celebrating Adam’s 18th birthday during his draft party. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The Embrun, Ont. native was originally selected by the Petes in the fifth round, 85th overall, in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection from the Eastern Ontario Wild U16s. In two seasons with the Petes, Levac has played in 117 games, scoring 17 goals and 32 assists for 54 points. This past season, Levac put up 44 points in 60 games. He also finished second on the team in scoring during the playoffs, recording four points in six games.

“On behalf of the Peterborough Petes, I’d like to congratulate Adam on this amazing accomplishment,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager and vice president of operations. “This is a well-deserved recognition of the hard work, dedication, and character shown by Adam throughout his time in Peterborough. I’d also like to congratulate Adam’s family and recognize our coaches and staff for the role they played in helping him reach this milestone.”

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Regional Businesses Gather to Launch Peterborough Aerospace and Defence Cluster

There were 60 representatives from businesses, educational institutions and partner organizations gathered to officially launch the Peterborough Aerospace and Defence Cluster (PADC) on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The PADC is a regional network focused on supporting the growth of Peterborough’s aerospace and defence sectors and supply chains. 

The inaugural meeting brought participants together to explore opportunities to strengthen the local supply chain and position the region as a competitive location within Canada's aerospace and defence industries. 

During the meeting, participants formally established the PADC and identified key priorities, including workforce development. Attendees shared information about their organizations and explored opportunities for future collaboration. 

Launched through a collaboration between the City of Peterborough, The Loomex Group, ACF Associates, and Explorer Solutions, the PADC will connect manufacturers, suppliers, innovators, academic institutions, and government partners to support industry growth across the region. 

The PADC will help map and promote the regional supply chain, encourage collaboration among businesses, support workforce training and raise Peterborough’s profile as a destination for investment and innovation. 

The launch of the PADC is part of ongoing efforts to support local businesses, strengthen industry partnerships and create opportunities for long-term economic growth. 

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Applications Open for Starter Company Plus Program Offering Funding and Support for Local Entrepreneurs

By Scott Arnold

Aspiring and growing business owners in Peterborough now have an opportunity to access funding, mentorship and training through one of the region's most popular entrepreneurship programs.

Starter Company Plus Accepting Applications to Help Entrepreneurs Launch and Grow Their Business (photo courtesy of community futures peterborough)

Applications are now being accepted for the next cohort of the Starter Company Plus program, an initiative designed to help entrepreneurs launch new businesses or grow existing ones.

The program offers successful applicants up to $5,000 in non-repayable funding, along with business training, mentorship and networking opportunities aimed at helping participants build a strong foundation for long-term success.

The application deadline is Aug. 5 at 11:59 pm.

Organizers say the program goes beyond financial assistance by connecting participants with experienced business advisors who can help refine business strategies, strengthen financial planning and develop effective marketing plans.

Participants will also receive a six-month trial membership with the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, providing access to networking events and business resources. In addition, entrepreneurs will have access to a conditionally pre-approved microloan of up to $20,000 through Community Futures Peterborough.

Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha, said programs like Starter Company Plus play an important role in supporting local entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and creating sustainable jobs throughout the region.

Community Futures Peterborough Executive Director Devon Girard said the continued interest in the program reflects the strength and momentum of the local small business community.

Past participants have also credited the program with helping them grow. Vanessa Wunderlich, co-founder of Lark & Lemon and a Starter Company Plus graduate, said the support and guidance provided through the program gave her and her business partner the confidence and tools needed to expand their business.

The program is open to applicants who are 18 years of age or older, are based in the City or County of Peterborough, and are either starting a new business or operating a business that is less than five years old.

Successful applicants will take part in training sessions throughout September and October.

More information and application details can be found through Community Futures Peterborough's Starter Company Plus website.

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

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Peterborough Petes Forward Adam Novotný Selected 24th Overall In the NHL Draft By the Vancouver Canucks

Peterborough Petes forward Adam Novotný finally had his name called when the Vancouver Canucks selected him 24th overall at the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, N.Y., on Friday night.

Photo courtesy of Logan Taylor and the Brantford BUlldogs.

Hailing from Kobylice, Czechia, he was originally selected eighth overall by the Petes in the 2024 CHL Import Draft. He was the first Czech player taken in this year's draft and the first Pete.

Since 2002, he has been one of four Petes to record 30+ goals and 65+ points in a draft-eligible season, joining Nick Ritchie (2013-2014), Matt Puempel (2010-11) and Eric Staal (2002-03).

This past season with Peterborough, he scored 34 goals, the second-best behind Kieron Walton. He was fourth on the team with 31 assists and second with 65 points in 58 games. He tallied one assist in six playoff games.

Two seasons ago, the 2007-born forward featured in 41 games for Mountfield HK in Czechia’s top professional league, scoring one goal and adding two assists for three points.

He also featured in 10 playoff games for Mountfield, scoring twice. In 2023-24, Novotný played in 48 games for Mountfield HK U20, scoring 32 goals and adding 27 assists for 59 points. In 2023, Novotný made his debut in the Czech Extraliga with Mountfield, scoring in his first game and becoming the youngest player to score in the league at 15.

Novotný has also represented his home country of Czechia on the international stage at multiple levels. Two seasons ago, he featured in seven games for Czechia at the World Junior Championships in Ottawa, scoring once and helping his team win a bronze medal. He also represented his country at the 2025 U18 World Championships in Texas, scoring twice and adding four assists for six points in five games. 

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Birthday Surprise Turns Into $16 Million Windfall for Cavan Woman

By Scott Arnold

What started as a birthday ticket check turned into a life-changing moment for a Cavan resident who is now $16 million richer.

Darlene of cavan is $16 million richer with a lotto ticket bought at giant tiger in peterborough (photo courtesy of OLGC)

Darlene M. of Cavan is celebrating a massive win after claiming a $16 million prize in the LOTTO 6/49 Gold Ball Draw on May 30.

The 63-year-old retiree discovered her good fortune on her birthday while checking her ticket using the OLG app.

Darlene said she immediately ran into the house to tell her sister and needed to make sure what she was seeing was real.

The shock didn't end there. After sharing the news with the rest of her family, she said everyone was left in disbelief by the life-changing win.

As she begins planning for the future, Darlene says some of the money will go toward paying bills and buying a new truck. She also hopes to help her children purchase a home.

Giving back is also high on her list of priorities. Darlene said she plans to support animal welfare initiatives that are important to her.

The winning ticket was purchased at Giant Tiger on Lansdowne Street West in Peterborough, adding another big lottery win to the region in recent weeks.

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

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Peterborough DBIA Invites Community to Cheer on Team Canada This Sunday at Soccer Watch Party

By Scott Arnold

A giant outdoor screen, free parking and plenty of red and white are all part of a community watch party happening in the heart of downtown Peterborough this weekend.

the dbia will host a watch party to watch the canadian soccer game on sunday (photo courtesy of peterborough dbia)

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is transforming the City Square at 215 Charlotte Street into an outdoor fan zone for Team Canada's opening knockout-round match of the world's largest international soccer tournament.

The free event takes place Sunday, June 28, with Canada taking on South Africa at 3 pm.

Fans can start arriving at 2 pm to grab a spot before kickoff. Admission is free and no registration is required.

The watch party will take place in the City Square, the same location that serves as the downtown skating rink during the winter months. Organizers are encouraging people to bring lawn chairs, get comfortable and enjoy an afternoon of soccer with friends, family and fellow fans.

organizers are hoping the community will come together to cheer canada during their soccer game on sunday (photo courtesy of peterborough DBIA)

Free parking will also be available at the nearby King Street Parkade, making it easy for visitors to walk over to the square.

The event is designed to bring the community together around one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

"We want everyone to find places to enjoy together, see these big events and really experience these things as a community," said Connor English, Programs Manager with the DBIA.

While the match itself is the main attraction, organizers are also encouraging people to make a day of it downtown.

Within a few blocks of the City Square, visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, pubs and cafés before kickoff. Whether it's grabbing a sweet treat, picking up takeout or simply taking a stroll through the downtown, the DBIA hopes people will take advantage of everything the core has to offer.

"Downtowns are made for this kind of thing because there's so much vibrancy and so much to enjoy," said Amanda Bedford, Marketing and Communications Manager with the DBIA. "Instead of just sitting on your couch and watching the game, you can enjoy it with your community."

connor english and amanda bedford are hoping for a big crowd to cheer on canada at the city square on sunday (photo by scott arnold)

The watch parties are being presented by the Peterborough DBIA in partnership with the City of Peterborough and Peterborough Tourism, whose support has helped make the community events possible.

Canada is one of the host nations for this summer's international soccer tournament, and organizers expect excitement around Team Canada's matches to continue throughout the competition.

Additional Team Canada watch parties may be added if Canada advances to later rounds.

Even after Canada's tournament run ends, soccer fans will still have another chance to gather downtown. The international soccer tournament final will be shown at the City Square on Sunday, July 19 at 3 pm, with the competing teams still to be determined.

the city square on charlotte will be the scene for sunday’s soccer watch party as the community rallies around canada (photo courtesy of peterborough dbia)

Updates on additional watch parties, programming and spectator information will be shared on The Boro's social media channels. Residents can follow The Boro on Instagram and Facebook at @TheBoroPtbo or visit TheBoro.ca to view the events calendar, explore the downtown business directory and stay up to date on future match screenings.

For now, the message from organizers is simple: wear your red and white, bring a chair and come cheer on Team Canada together in downtown Peterborough.

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

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Trent University's 20th Annual President's Excalibur Golf Tournament Raises Record-Breaking $101,000 For Student-Athlete Scholarships

There was a record 24 teams swinging their clubs and raising $101,000 for Trent University student-athletes at the 20th annual President's Excalibur Golf Tournament at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club on Thursday afternoon.

Trent staff and students witness Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor (right) sink a putt prior to the shotgun start. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“At Trent, athletics is about much more than competition. It’s about developing leaders – students who build resilience, confidence, discipline and teamwork,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “The record-breaking support shows our student-athletes that they have supporters rooting for them, that their efforts are recognized and valued. The Green & White Athletic Financial Awards give students the chance to be and become—embracing who they are and fully realizing their potential without financial barriers getting in the way.”

Proceeds went towards the Green & White Athletic Financial Awards, which provide financial assistance to student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in sport, academic achievement and leadership within the Trent community.

During the 2025-26 varsity season, more than 70 student-athletes received a Green & White Athletic Financial Award, bringing the total number of recipients supported through the program to over 450. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Aly Saydam, Trent men’s volleyball student-athlete, said the awards helped him maintain an academic average above 80 per cent throughout his undergraduate degree which earned him recognition as a USPORT Academic All-Canadian. This year, he also earned a place on the President's Honour Roll for graduating with an average of 90 per cent or higher and received two of Trent Athletics' highest honours: the Bonnie M. Patterson Award and the Arthur Cup.

“No journey to success comes without challenges,” said Saydam. “Being a student-athlete is very challenging. You’re expected to train like a professional athlete, while still excelling at a full-time university education. A major part of my success is due to generous donors like those here today. Receiving a Green & White Athletic Financial Award during each year of study has allowed me to focus more of my time and energy towards volleyball and my studies.”

@ptbo_canada A record-breaking $101,000 was raised for student-athlete bursaries at Trent University’s 20th annual President’s Excalibur Golf Tournament! #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #trentuniversity ♬ Mario like action game 2 - Jun Takahashi

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Siemens Canada, Tree Canada and Otonabee Conservation Plant 70 Trees at Otonabee Court in Keene

Employees from Siemens Canada joined Tree Canada and Otonabee Conservation to plant 70 native trees at the Otonabee and Monaghan Court Seniors residence in Keene on June 10.

Planting trees has many benefits including improving air and water quality, reducing erosion, providing shade and cooling benefits, and supporting climate change adaptation efforts throughout the region. Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

According to Otonabee Conservation, the event marked the first phase of planting at the property in partnership with the Otonabee Municipal Nonprofit Housing Corporation.

The planting initiative will enhance biodiversity and improve wildlife habitat by planting native tree and shrub species in two phases, to be completed in the spring and fall this year.

 “This partnership with Siemens Canada has created a lasting positive impact across our watershed over more than a decade,” said Janette Loveys Smith, Otonabee Conservation CAO. “Together, we have restored habitat, improved biodiversity, and strengthened community stewardship through hands-on environmental projects. It is inspiring to see Siemens employees dedicate their time and energy to initiatives that leave a meaningful legacy for both people and wildlife.”

“Since 2012, Siemens employees have helped plant thousands of trees in the Peterborough area and more than 16,000 trees across Canada,” said Ian Almond of Siemens Canada. “Supporting greener, healthier communities where we live and work is something we’re proud to be part of, and we’re thankful for the strong partnerships that continue to make these efforts possible.”

“Growing and caring for our urban forests has never been more important,” said Brijpal Patel, Chief Program Officer at Tree Canada. “Through strong partnerships like this one, we can support healthy trees, strengthen local ecosystems, and help communities become greener, healthier and more resilient for generations to come.”

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