100 Women Peterborough Awards Over $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity; New Leadership Transition For Organization

Members of 100 Women Peterborough have given $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region during their second meeting of the year on June 16.

Photo courtesy of 100 Women.

The decision came following presentations from Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, One City Peterborough and the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation.

Presenting on behalf of Habitat for Humanity, Natalie Raponie, Operations General Manager, spoke about the profound impact safe and affordable housing has on individuals and families throughout the region.

"A safe place. That's not a small thing. That is the thing that makes everything else possible,” said Natalie Raponie, Operations General Manager “The dollars raised today in this room would cover the cost of the commercial sprinkler system, and that's the difference between a house and a home that's actually safe. I am extremely happy and elated. Thank you for making this possible.”

The evening also marked a significant milestone as longtime organizers, Rose Terry, Alyssa Stewart and Wendy Hill, officially passed the leadership of 100 Women Peterborough to a new organizing team and long-time members, Rita Wilke, Natalie Raponie and Janie Kelly.

Outgoing organizer and co-founder of 100 Women Peterborough, Rose Terry, reflected on the group's accomplishments and the importance of the transition.

“When we started this journey, we knew that collective giving could create meaningful change in our region, but we could never have imagined the incredible impact this community would have," said Rose Terry, 100 Women Peterborough co-founder. “Together, we have now raised more than $263,000 for local charities and causes that are helping people throughout Peterborough and the surrounding area. We are immensely proud of what this group has accomplished and deeply grateful to every woman who has been part of this collective. As we pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, we do so with complete confidence. Fresh perspectives and new energy will ensure this impactful giving group continues to thrive and make a difference in our community for years to come”

The group also announced the charities selected through a draw to present at the next meeting. They include: Lakefield Youth Unlimited, Farms at Work, and Peterborough Folk Festival.

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Canada Day Road Closures, Parking Restrictions and Transit Detours

Temporary road closures, parking restrictions and transit detours will be in effect in the downtown core and around Del Crary Park to accommodate the Canada Day Parade and Canada Day fireworks this Wednesday.

File Photo.

Road closures 

To ensure public safety and support the parade staging and route, the following streets will be closed from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.: 

• George Street from the south side of McDonnel Street to the north side of Brock Street. 

• Murray Street from the east side of Aylmer Street to the west side of Water Street. 

• Townsend Street from the west side of George Street to the east side of Aylmer Street. 

George Street from Brock Street to Rink Street/Del Crary Park entrance will be treated as a rolling closure, led by the Peterborough Police Service, beginning at 10 a.m. The rolling closure is expected to be in place until approximately 11 a.m. 

Road users and pedestrians are asked to use alternate routes during the road closures and follow all posted signage and barricades. 

Temporary road closures will also be in effect for the Canada Day fireworks. 

The following streets will be closed from noon to 10:30 p.m.: 

• Perry Street from the east side of George Street to the west side of Crescent Street. 

• Lake Street from the east side of George Street to the west side of Crescent Street. 

• Crescent Street from the north side of Romaine Street to the south side of Perry Street. 

• Lock Street from the north side of Romaine Street to the south side of Crescent Street. 

Local traffic will still be permitted to access the areas within the road closures. 

Parking restrictions in place for Canada Day parade 

Parking on George Street will be prohibited before and during the Canada Day Parade, beginning at 7 a.m.  on Wednesday, July 1 

No parking signs will be placed along the parade route on George Street on Tuesday, June 30.    

Visitors are asked to follow parking restrictions that are in place for the parade.   

Vehicles parked in restricted areas that have not been removed by 7 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1 will be ticketed and subject to tow and impound at the vehicle owner’s expense. Individuals whose vehicles are towed or impounded can call the City of Peterborough Municipal Law Enforcement and Security Services Division at 705-707-3969 on the following business day for information on the towing provider and impound yard location.    

The City encourages anyone watching the parade to park one of the municipal lots or parking garages located near the downtown core. Municipal parking spaces can be found at:  

• Simcoe parking garage at 190 Simcoe St.  

• King Street Parkade at 202 King St. 

• Chambers Lot at 184 Hunter St. 

• Reid Lot at 350 Reid St. 

• Gas Lot at 70 Simcoe St.  

• Del Crary Lot at 100 George St. N. 

• Downie Lot at 336 Downie St. 

Parking is free in all municipal lots, on-street spaces and parking garages on Canada Day.  

Peterborough Transit 

Road closures will affect several Peterborough Transit routes. 

Route 2 Chemong from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

From the Terminal to Lansdowne Place: Detour via Simcoe Street to Aylmer Street to Lansdowne Street, then regular route. 

From Lansdowne Place to the Terminal: Regular route to Lock Street at Lansdowne Street. Detour via Lansdowne Street to Aylmer Street to Simcoe Street. 

Route 4 Weller from 10:23 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. 

Passengers will be required to walk between the Terminal and Simcoe Street/Water Street. 

Route 6 Sherbrooke 

From Trent to the Terminal from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Regular route to George Street at Parkhill Road. Detour via Parkhill Road to Reid Street to Simcoe Street to the Terminal. 

From the Terminal to Trent from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Detour via Simcoe Street to Rubidge Street to Reid Street to Parkhill Road to Water Street, then regular route. 

Route 9 Parkhill from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

Eastbound: Detour along Parkhill Road between Reid Street and Water Street. 

Westbound: Detour along Parkhill Road between George Street and Reid Street. 

Red Community Bus 23 at 10:15 a.m. trip 

Regular route to McDonnel Street at Reid Street. Detour via Reid Street to Simcoe Street to the Terminal. 

Blue Community Bus 22 at 10:15 a.m. trip 

Regular route to George Street at Parkhill Road. Detour via Parkhill Road to Reid Street to Simcoe Street to the Terminal. 

Follow Peterborough Transit Service Alerts on Facebook or @ptbo_transit on X for updates or call Transit Customer Service at 705-745-0525. 

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NFL Dream Comes Home as Jared Wayne Gives Back to Young Peterborough Players

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough's own Jared Wayne spent part of his off-season back where his football journey began, helping inspire the next generation of local athletes.

nfl’er jared wayne and his houston texans teammate nico wilson were in peterborough for the hometown huddle youth football camp (photo via facebook @KMFLPtbo)

The Houston Texans wide receiver hosted the first-ever Hometown Huddle Youth Football Camp on Saturday at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School, welcoming children between the ages of eight and 13 for a free morning of football instruction and fun.

campers had a blast at the hometown huddle event with nfl’er and peterborough native jared wayne (photo via facebook @KMFLPtbo)

The event gave young players the chance to learn directly from Peterborough's first NFL player, who grew up playing in the local football community before starring at the University of Pittsburgh and eventually reaching the professional ranks.

Camp participants also received an unexpected treat when Wayne was joined by Texans teammate and Pro Bowl receiver Nico Collins, who took part in the instruction and spent time with the young athletes.

nico wilson of the nfl’s houston texans was a special guest at the hometown huddle football camp (photo via facebook @KMFLPtbo)

For Wayne, the camp was about more than football. It was an opportunity to return to the community that helped shape his career and show local kids that reaching the highest levels of the sport is possible.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by YES Shelter for Youth and Families (@yesshelterptbo)

The inaugural event brought together football fundamentals, encouragement and plenty of smiles, creating a memorable day for the young players who shared the field with two members of the Houston Texans.

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

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Petes Add Big Czech Forward Patrik Poláček in CHL Import Draft

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Petes have added some size and international talent to their prospect pool, selecting Czech forward Patrik Poláček in the 2026 CHL Import Draft.

the peterborough selected 6’5 Czech forward Patrik Poláček in the 2026 CHL Import Draft (photo courtesy of the peterborough petes, via Eliska Svobodova – hcsparta.cz)

The Petes used their lone pick in Tuesday's draft to select the 6'5", 194 pound forward with the 37th overall selection.

General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke described Poláček as a big, strong player who brings a physical style, forechecks hard and isn't afraid to drive to the net.

Oke said the Petes' coaching staff and scouts had the opportunity to watch the Czech forward both in person and on video during various international events and believe he possesses many of the qualities the organization looks for in a Peterborough Pete.

Poláček is coming off an impressive season with HC Sparta Praha's U17 team, where he finished second in the Extraliga dorostu U17 league scoring race. He recorded 36 goals and 31 assists for 67 points in 42 games.

He elevated his game even further in the playoffs, leading the league with 17 points in 12 postseason games while helping Sparta Praha capture a championship.

The forward also appeared in four games with Sparta Praha's U20 team, collecting two goals and three assists.

On the international stage, Poláček has represented his home country of the Czech Republic at the U17 level. He suited up for the national program in 25 games during the 2025-26 season, recording 15 points, and also helped Czechia reach the bronze medal game at the 2025 U17 World Hockey Challenge.

The selection gives the Petes another intriguing prospect to watch as the organization continues to build for the future.

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

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Peterborough Regional Health Centre Expands Streamlined Treatment and Evaluation Pathway

Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) is expanding the eligibility criteria for its successful Streamlined Treatment and Evaluation Pathway (STEP) in the Emergency Department.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Starting Wednesday, STEP will see patients for common summer ailments like bug bites and rashes, as well as other minor illnesses and injuries.

Since the program launched in January 2026, more than 1,300 community members have been cared for through STEP, which pre-screens patients via an online survey for minor illnesses and injuries before they arrive at the Emergency Department (ED). Once they arrive at the hospital, STEP-eligible patients are seen by a dedicated physician.

Before coming to the hospital, patients must complete the survey and receive an email confirming their eligibility for STEP: https://redcap.link/PRHC_STEP.

The expanded list of conditions that will be accepted through STEP as of July 1 includes:

• Respiratory symptoms (cough, nasal or sinus congestion, sore throat, or ear pain)

• Minor limb injuries

• Urinary tract infections

• Return – Stich and staple removal *NEW*

• Return – Next-day limb ultrasound *NEW*

• Return – IV antibiotics *NEW*

• Dental pain assessment (if unable to see a dentist) *NEW*

• Tetanus booster *NEW*

• Rabies follow-up booster *NEW*

• Rash or skin irritation (such as poison ivy or bug bites) *NEW*

• Sexually transmitted infection assessment and treatment *NEW*

• Wound assessment and dressing/packing change *NEW*

• Acute back pain (non-chronic and not from recent trauma) *NEW*

“With the summer months upon us, the ED expects to see an increase in minor illnesses and ailments, so this is the ideal time to expand STEP criteria to include additional patient conditions,” says Jessica Jackson, Director, Emergency, Critical Care, Respiratory Services and Trauma at PRHC. “Patient feedback about STEP has been overwhelmingly positive. We’re so proud of the incredible work being done by this team to improve the ways our patients access care through the ED, which supports us in continuing to provide the best possible care and experience for everyone.”

A dedicated STEP physician is available to see patients with minor illnesses and injuries from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to noon and is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis based on eligibility as determined by the survey and triage.

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Peterborough Police Seeking Multiple Male Suspects Selling Fake Jewelry After Series of Incidents

The Peterborough Police Service is investigating after a series of fake jewelry scams involving two to three male suspects were reported.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough POlice Service.

The incidents reported to police have occurred in June and involved a 2026 black Kia SUV. In each incident, it was reported that two to three males were in the vehicle, attempting to sell fake gold jewellery to people, claiming they needed money and/or help buying gas for the vehicle. Several incidents happened in parking lots; however, several people were stopped while walking on the sidewalk and another while on their front porch. 

In some cases, the victims handed over money only to later learn that the jewellery was fake. 

The males were described to police as:

Suspect #1:

• Brown complexion

• Dark curly hair

• About 5’6

Suspect #2

• Brown complexion

• Heavier set

• Dark hair

• Possibly a beard

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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Rock Roll Past Lakers in Oakville Monday Night

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers erased a three-goal deficit but couldn't keep pace down the stretch in a 13-9 loss to the Oakville Rock on Monday night.

the peterborough century 21 lakers dropped back to .500 on the season after a loss in oakville monday night (photo courtesy of peterborough lakers, via anna taylor)

The defeat dropped Peterborough back to .500 at 5-5 on the Major Series Lacrosse season. The Lakers remain in third place in the standings, four points behind Oakville.

Peterborough led 1-0 and 3-2 early before the Rock closed the opening period with a 5-3 advantage. Oakville extended the lead to three in the second period before the Lakers battled back.

Holden Cattoni, playing in his first game back after missing the last month with an injury, scored his third goal of the night to spark the comeback. Justin Sykes and Jordan Stouros followed with goals to tie the game 6-6 midway through the second period.

The momentum, however, shifted back to Oakville. The Rock outscored Peterborough 7-3 the rest of the way, including a 5-2 edge in the third period, to secure the victory.

Cattoni led the Lakers with three goals in his return to the lineup, but he left the game after completing his hat trick and did not return. Thomas Hoggarth added three points on a goal and two assists, while Ryan Lanchbury picked up five assists. Stouros scored his first goal of the season, and Sykes, Brad McCulley and Dylan Hutchison also found the back of the net.

Nick Rose started in goal and made 35 saves before leaving the game after a collision at the end of the second period. Deacan Knott stopped 12 shots in relief.

The Lakers also welcomed defenceman Adam Jay back to the lineup after he missed the last month due to injury.

Former Laker Landon Kells made 46 saves for Oakville, while Josh Dawick, Sam LeClair and Carson Moyer each recorded hat tricks for the Rock.

Peterborough returns home Thursday night to host the Cobourg Kodiaks at the Peterborough Memorial Centre for Sport a Rainbow Night.

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

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Community Futures Peterborough, Peterborough DBIA and John A. Brook

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Community Futures Peterborough whose mission is to have a thriving local economy where every entrepreneur feels supported, every business has room to grow, and the community prospers together, is celebrating a record-breaking year.

At their AGM last week they announced that in the fiscal year 2025-2026, the organization disbursed a record of 56 loans totaling over $2.06 million to local businesses across the City and County. Through these investments, Community Futures Peterborough helped create or maintain 167 local jobs. The Business Advisory Centre also delivered a record 541 consultations and supported more than 741 businesses through workshops and advisory services. For more information about Community Futures, please visit: communityfuturespeterborough.ca

The Peterborough DBIA has announced the return of Movies at the Park. The screenings will be every Tuesday from July to August in Quaker Foods City Square at 215 Charlotte St., downtown Peterborough.

The first screening will be on Tuesday July 7, 2026 showing The Secret Life of Pets. Admission is free and no registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to BYOB – bring your own blanket and come enjoy the vibrant downtown atmosphere with local businesses offering snacks, beverages, and treats to help make every night memorable. For more information visit: theboro.ca

Peterborough Real Estate Investment Coach, John A. Brook is launching his business: Pinnacle Real Estate Investing, a coaching and education company that helps investors make informed decisions.

Brook is a veteran real estate investment coach and business leader drawing on more than 40 years of experience. Pinnacle Real Estate Investing is also offering complimentary introductory consultations for anyone interested in exploring real estate investing or strengthening their current investment strategy. For more information you can visit: pinnaclerealestateinvesting.ca

Don’t forget, nominations are now open for the 2026 Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards!

The nomination process is quick and easy. Celebrate the business excellence in our community by submitting your nomination today! More information can be found at pkchamber.ca

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

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Otonabee's Colin Fitzgerald Hears His Name Called at NHL Draft

By Scott Arnold

A local hockey journey reached another milestone on Saturday as Otonabee's Colin Fitzgerald was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the seventh round of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Otonabee's Colin Fitzgerald poses in a St. Louis Blues jersey after being selected 203rd overall in the seventh round of the 2026 NHL Draft. Photo via twitter @CHlhockey)

The Blues picked Fitzgerald with the 203rd overall selection, making him one of the newest members of the organization's prospect pool.

The 18-year-old forward is no stranger to hockey fans in Peterborough. Fitzgerald was selected third overall by the Peterborough Petes in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection and spent parts of two seasons with the club before being traded to the Soo Greyhounds in November.

In 72 games with the Petes, Fitzgerald recorded 18 goals and 23 assists for 41 points.

@EASPORTSNHL - it's in the game 🏒

Colin Fitzgerald makes it official with a face scan.#NHLDraft | @OHLHoundPower | @StLouisBlues pic.twitter.com/gJhDpsZMXk

— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) June 27, 2026

THE NHL WASTED NO TIME GETTING COLIN FITZGERALD OVER TO THE EASPORTS SCANNING MACHINE TO GET HIS FACE VIDEO GAME READY

After being traded to the Greyhounds, the six-foot-two, 212-pound forward appeared in 39 regular-season games and put up 20 points on nine goals and 11 assists. Overall, he finished the 2025-26 season with 15 goals and 18 assists for 33 points in 63 games.

Prior to his jump to the OHL, he played his minor hockey in Peterborough, playing his final season with the U16 AAA Petes, racking up 64 points in 35 games.

Fitzgerald's strong season also earned him an invitation to the NHL Scouting Combine, where he was one of just 20 OHL players invited. He was ranked 82nd among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting's final rankings.

On the international stage, Fitzgerald has represented Canada twice, helping the country win bronze at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and silver at the 2024 U17 World Challenge.

The draft selection marks another major step in the young forward's hockey career and gives Peterborough-area fans another local player to follow as he works toward his NHL dream.

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

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Heat Warning Issued as Temperatures and Humidex Set to Soar Through Canada Day Week

By Scott Arnold

Residents across the region are being urged to take precautions as the first major heat event of the summer arrives, with temperatures expected to feel like the mid-40s.

a heat wave is expected to hit the peterborough area this week, with the possibility of temperatures in the 40s

Lakelands Public Health is encouraging people to stay cool, stay hydrated and check in on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbours as an Orange Heat Warning remains in effect from Tuesday, June 30 through Friday, July 3.

Environment and Climate Change Canada says daytime highs could reach up to 36 C, with the humidex potentially climbing into the mid-40s. Overnight temperatures are also expected to remain between 21 C and 24 C, offering little relief from the heat.

The heat event is expected to end by Saturday, July 4.

Health officials say everyone is at risk of heat-related illnesses during extreme heat, but certain groups are more vulnerable, including older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, people with chronic illnesses or disabilities, those who work outdoors and people experiencing homelessness.

Lakelands Public Health is encouraging residents to check in on loved ones, especially those who live alone, noting that the combination of the season's first heat event and the Canada Day holiday can make conditions particularly dangerous.

Know the signs of heat illness

Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include:

• Tiredness and weakness

• Dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headache

• Rash

• Dark yellow urine or reduced urination

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cool place, drink water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires an immediate call to 9-1-1. Symptoms include:

• Body temperature above 39 C

• Hot, red skin

• Confusion or disorientation

• Fainting

• Trouble speaking

• Severe nausea or vomiting

• Rapid breathing or heartbeat

Tips to stay safe in the heat

Health officials recommend:

• Drinking plenty of water, even before feeling thirsty

• Avoiding strenuous outdoor activities

• Staying out of direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day

• Wearing loose, light-coloured clothing

• Taking cool showers or using cold, wet towels

• Keeping homes cool by closing blinds and limiting the use of heat-producing appliances

• Never leaving people or pets inside parked vehicles

Residents looking to cool off are also encouraged to visit air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries and shopping centres or take advantage of local beaches, splash pads and municipal cooling centres.

More information, heat safety tips and current heat alerts are available through Lakelands Public Health.

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

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