Petes Sign Goaltender Owen Nelson After Strong Showing at Development Camp

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Petes have added another piece to their future, signing American goaltender Owen Nelson to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.

peterborough petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke announced today that the team has signed goaltender owen nelson (photo courtesy of peterborough petes)

The 2007-born netminder earned the opportunity after attending the Petes' Development Camp as a free-agent invitee.

A native of Hudson, Wisconsin, Nelson spent last season with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL, appearing in 26 games while posting a 2.92 goals-against average and a .909 save percentage. He also appeared in one playoff game, recording a 1.61 goals-against average and a .955 save percentage.

Nelson also suited up for Cretin-Derham Hall in Minnesota during the 2024-25 high school season, where he earned 20 wins while finishing with a 1.71 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage.

"I'm very excited and honoured to sign with the Peterborough Petes," Nelson said. "I can't wait to get to Peterborough and get the chance to play for one of the most storied franchises in junior hockey and in front of an awesome fan base."

Petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke said Nelson made a strong impression during development camp, both on and off the ice.

Oke described the 6-foot-4 goaltender as a big, athletic player who moves well and is coming off a solid season in the USHL, adding the organization is excited to welcome him to Peterborough.

Nelson becomes the latest addition to the Petes as the club continues preparing for the 2026-27 OHL season.

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

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Peterborough Man Charged After Allegedly Striking Teenage Girl From Behind and Stealing Her Backpack

A 51-year-old Peterborough man is facing charges involving allegedly striking a teenage girl from behind and stealing her backpack on Monday evening.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 11:15 p.m., officers were called to the area of Parkhill Road and Benson Avenue after a 15-year-old girl reported a man approached her from behind, struck her with an object and took off with her backpack. Officers searching the area spotted a man matching the description given to police; he tossed an item into a wooded area and continued fleeing on a bicycle, ignoring police commands to stop.

While trying to stop the suspect, he was inadvertently struck by a police cruiser before the cruiser struck a tree. The suspect was taken into custody at gunpoint and some of the items were recovered. The victim did not require medical attention.  The suspect was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for examination before being cleared and returned to police custody.

The man was arrested and charged with:

• Armed Robbery

• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose

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

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Otonabee Conservation and Township of Cavan Monaghan to Begin Work On Millbrook Dam

Otonabee Conservation with the Township of Cavan Monaghan are conducting vegetation restoration work on the Millbrook dam to address significant erosion and safeguard critical infrastructure.

The Millbrook Dam during its ribbon cutting ceremony in 2019. Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

The project will help stabilize the area, protect critical infrastructure, and reduce the risk of further erosion according to Janette Loveys Smith, Otonabee Conservation CAO/Secretary-Treasurer.

“The Millbrook Dam is an important part of our watershed’s history and continues to play a critical role in managing water resources for the community today,” she said. “By investing in these restoration efforts, we are protecting both the structural integrity of this historic piece of infrastructure and the public safety, environmental, and recreational benefits it provides for future generations.”

Temporary cedar rail fencing is being put in place to protect damaged area, while still allowing public access along the existing footpath to cross the dam. The areas will be restored with topsoil and grass seed. Otonabee Conservation says the project anticipated to last two years. Ongoing pedestrian traffic across the embankment has caused erosion of the protective soil cover, exposing the underlying Flexamat system. This vegetated concrete block mat is a critical component of the dam and slope stabilization that helps maintain the long-term structural integrity of the dam.

“The Millbrook Dam is a valued community asset, and this work will help protect the infrastructure, support public safety, and preserve access to this important area for residents and visitors for years to come,” said Ryan Huntley, Township of Cavan Monaghan Deputy Mayor.

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Peterborough GreenUP Hosting Open Hive Events to Introduce Community to Beekeeping

By Scott Arnold

Residents are invited to get a closer look at the world of bees this summer during two free Open Hive Events at Ecology Park.

peterborough greenup is invited the public to ecology park to learn the basics of bees from local beekeepers (photo via instagram @ptbogreenup)

The events will give participants a chance to meet local beekeepers and learn more about the apiary at GreenUP Ecology Park.

Attendees will learn about bee and hive basics, beekeeper equipment and what bees need to stay healthy throughout the seasons.

Two Open Hive Events are scheduled:

• Saturday, June 20 from 4 pm to 5 pm

• Saturday, July 18 from 10 am to 11 am

The two sessions will cover the same information, so organizers are asking participants to register for only one event.

The events are free to attend, although cash donations will be accepted on site to support the bee program. A suggested donation of $10 per adult is recommended, with children able to attend for free.

Organizers recommend attendees wear long-sleeved shirts, closed-toed shoes and socks long enough to tuck pants into. Visitors are also asked to avoid wearing sunglasses and strong scents, and to come prepared for outdoor conditions with sunscreen and water.

Parking is available at the south end of the Beavermead Park parking lot, with attendees asked to walk along the Trans Canada Trail to reach Ecology Park. Participants will meet under the shelter at the picnic tables.

The event is designed to be flexible and inclusive, with organizers encouraging anyone with accessibility needs or concerns to reach out in advance.

The event may be postponed in the case of rain or heavy winds, with updates sent to registered participants the morning of the event if needed.

Any questions or inquiries can be directed to christina.balint@greenup.on.ca

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

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Lang Pioneer Village, Community Care Peterborough, Liftlock Cruises and Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness

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…

Step back in time at the 29th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on Sunday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lang Pioneer Village Museum.

Explore a spectacular display of antique and classic cars, trucks, and vintage motorcycles from across Ontario while discovering the history of transportation throughout the historic village. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, live demonstrations, family activities, music, great food, and vote for their favourite vehicle. If you have a classic car, truck, or motorcycle, you can even register to display it and compete for more than 25 awards. For event details, participant registration, and admission information, visit: langpioneervillage.ca.

Community Care Peterborough is relocating their Apsley Office to Better Serve their clients. As of Monday July 27, 2026, Community Care in Apsley will be operating at 91 Curleigh Street in Apsley.

While only down the street from their current location, the new office will offer many benefits for clients, volunteers, and staff. The moving dates are set for Thursday July 23 and Friday July 24. The service office will remain operational over the phone only during that time. The Apsley Thrift Store, which is a key fundraising initiative and popular local shop that helps support Community Care’s programs and services, will be closed from July 20-24th and plans to re-open on July 27 at the new location. There will be a grand opening celebration planned for August. Follow Community Care in Apsley’s Facebook page for more details closer to the event. For more information, you can call their office (705) 656-4589.

Two local favourites are teaming up for the ultimate summer experience!

Liftlock Cruises and Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness are teaming up to bring the ultimate summer experience. The Pilates & Wellness Cruise will take place aboard the Island Princess on Saturday August 1 from 6:00pm-7:30pm with Pilates on the Upper Deck and Yoga on the Lower Deck For more information and to book your spot, email: wellness@summersoul.caIf 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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Ennismore Shamrock Festival Returning With Two Days of Summer Fun

By Scott Arnold

One of the region’s longest-running community festivals is returning this summer with two days of family activities, entertainment and local traditions in Ennismore.

the popular ennismore shamrock festival will be returning next weekend, with free admission for all ages (photo via selwyntownship.ca)

The 2026 Ennismore Shamrock Festival takes place July 18 and 19 at the Robert E. Young Recreation Complex, located at 553 Ennis Road in Ennismore.

The annual festival, which began in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial celebrations, has grown into a summer tradition for residents and visitors throughout the region, celebrating community spirit, local heritage and family-friendly fun.

The weekend will feature a variety of activities, including children’s games, food vendors, community booths, artisan vendors and popular festival competitions.

The festival kicks off with Family Fun Day on Saturday, July 18 from 10 am to 2 pm. Admission is free, with activities including:

• BBQ hosted by the Shamrock Festival Committee featuring peameal bacon on a bun, burgers, hot dogs and drinks

• Bouncy castles, inflatable games and obstacle courses

• Petting zoo

• Snowie Sno Cones and lemonade

• Beavertails

• Ennismore Optimist Club youth soccer and rookie ball tournaments

A garage and bake sale will also take place next door at the Ennismore Curling Club from 9 am to 2 pm.

Organizers say the Ennismore Shamrock Festival continues to offer something for all ages, with free community events, accessible facilities and plenty of parking making it an easy summer outing for families.

taking place since 1967, the ennismore shamrock festival is one of the longest running events of its kind (photo via selwyntownship.ca)

The full weekend celebration returns to Ennismore this July as the community comes together for another edition of the long-running festival.

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

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Peterborough Lakers U11 3 Capture Gloucester Tournament Championship

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Lakers U11 3 team brought home championship honours from the 2026 U11 Gloucester Ray Broadworth Memorial Tournament after a perfect weekend on the floor.

the peterborough lakers u11 3 team won the gloucester ray broadworth memorial tournament over the weekend, going undefeated through five games (photo via instagram @ptbominorlax)

The Lakers finished the tournament with a 5-0-0 record to claim first place in the U11 division.

Peterborough opened the tournament on Friday, July 3 with a 5-3 win over the Nepean Knights U11 2 before continuing their strong start on Saturday with a 17-1 victory over the Kingston Krossfire.

The Lakers added another win later that day with a 20-2 result against the Gloucester Griffins U11 2.

On Sunday, Peterborough wrapped up the tournament schedule with two more victories, earning a 12-3 win over Gloucester before closing out the weekend with a 9-5 win against the Nepean Knights U11 2.

With five wins in five games, the Lakers secured the tournament title and celebrated their championship victory as the 2026 U11 Gloucester Ray Broadworth Memorial Tournament champions.

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

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Peterborough Musicfest Looks Ahead to Another Big Week After Weather Throws Canada Day Curveball

By Scott Arnold

Sass Jordan returns Wednesday while Lighthouse headlines Saturday, with Lotsy opening the midweek show on the Cogeco Future Sound Series stage and Carling Stephen kicking off the weekend show.

peterborough musician carling stephen will kickoff SAturday’s musicfest at 6:30pm from the side stage before lighthouse hits the main stage at 8pm (photo by Scott arnold)

Peterborough Musicfest is turning its attention to another exciting week of concerts after Mother Nature forced an unexpected change to the schedule on Canada Day.

The festival's daytime Canada Day programming went ahead as planned, but severe weather rolled into Del Crary Park just before the evening concert, forcing organizers to cancel Neon Nostalgic's performance for the safety of concertgoers, staff and performers.

"It was more eventful than we expected it to be," said Peterborough Musicfest Marketing and Communications Manager Raff Melito.

Although Musicfest typically operates rain or shine, organizers made the rare decision to cancel before the festival's usual 7:55 pm weather deadline after a severe thunderstorm warning was issued and powerful winds swept through the park.

"Tents were flying, the chairs were spun around. It was a really strong, intense wind," Melito said.

With the stage and equipment left soaked by the storm and more severe weather possible later in the evening, organizers determined it wasn't safe to continue.

While the cancellation disappointed both fans and the band, Musicfest bounced back just a few days later.

The Good Lovelies returned to Del Crary Park on Saturday for their first festival appearance since 2014, performing to another strong crowd on what turned into a beautiful summer evening.

"I think everyone who attended was really into listening to them perform because they were captivated," said Melito.

Now, attention shifts to another pair of concerts this week.

sass jordan will be performing for the third time at peterborough musicfest on Wedneday, July 8th, at 8pm at Del Crary Park (photo courtesy of PEterborough musicfest)

Rock fans will welcome Sass Jordan back to Peterborough on Wednesday night, July 8th, for her third Musicfest appearance. Known for her powerhouse vocals and guitar-driven sound, Melito expects another memorable night at the park.

“Her voice is loud and strong and it’s going to be a really great night” says Melito.

Peterborough artist lotsy will perform at 6:30pm on wednesday, july 8th, ahead of headliner sass jordan as part of peterborough musicfest at del crary park (photo via facebook @lotsyland)

Wednesday’s show will begin with Peterborough native Lotsy, who many may know as Sarah Jayne Riley, performing at 6:30pm on the side stage.

Musicfest describes Lotsy’s sound as blending sharp-edged alt-pop, post-punk energy, new wave textures, and giant singalong hooks, describing her songs as being made for late-night drives, festival crowds and moments of personal reckoning.

lighthouse is set to perform at peterborough musicfest at del crary park on saturday july 11th (photo courtesy of peterborough musicfest)

Saturday's concert, on July 11th, will feature Canadian music legends Lighthouse, whose catalogue includes classics such as One Fine Morning and Sunny Days.

"If you don't know the band by name, you will absolutely know their songs," Melito said.

Before Lighthouse takes the main stage at 8 pm, Peterborough native Carling Stephen will open the evening on the Cogeco Future Sound Series stage beginning at 6:30 pm.

peterborough native carling stephen will kick things off on SAturday, july 11th, at 6:30pm before lighthouse hits the main stage at 8pm (photo by Scott arnold)

For Stephen, performing at Musicfest is another special chapter in a lifelong connection with the festival.

"Musicfest has been a part of my life," she said. "It's been inspiring and a great place to come and meet people."

She also appeared on the Musicfest stage last summer alongside Beau Dixon, but this year's performance gives her the opportunity to take centre stage herself.

"I'm really looking forward to getting some really good songs played and connecting with the audience," she said.

Concertgoers can expect a mix of blues, jazz, rock, R&B and classic favourites, all delivered with Stephen's own style.

"I add a little jazz to everything I do," she said.

She hopes plenty of family, friends and local music fans will arrive early to catch her set before Lighthouse takes over for the evening.

Along with another week of free music, visitors can also check out Peterborough Musicfest's official merchandise, enjoy the food vendors and take part in the festival's interactive gamification experience. By scanning QR codes throughout the park, visitors can play games, answer trivia and win prizes donated by Musicfest sponsors while waiting for the main stage performances.

Following this week's concerts, Peterborough Musicfest will continue every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer at Del Crary Park.

Want to enjoy one of this week's concerts from some of the best seats in the park? We're giving away a pair of VIP tickets. The winner will receive two reserved seats in the VIP section directly in front of the stage. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for contest details and your chance to win.

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

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Rotary Club of Peterborough's Sees New President Take the Reins For 2026-27

The Rotary Club of Peterborough is changing hands in leadership, as Tony Grady hands the presidential reins to Moe Grant for the 2026-27 year.

Moe Grant, Rotary Club of Peterborouhg President (left) getting the passing of the torch in a Blues Brothers style with then-outgoing and past president Tony Grady (right) during their Rotary Changeover Meeting. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Grant began his role as president on Wednesday. He has also served the same role with Trenton in 2006 with Edna Norris.

Outside of Rotary, Moe had a 44-year career with the Bank of Montreal before retirement.

The following is the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 2026-27 Board of Directors:

• President – Moe Grant

• Past President – Tony Grady

• President-Elect (2027-2028) – Kelli Grady

• Treasurer – Wayne Harding

• Secretary – Joe Kapron

• Sergeant-at-Arms – Nick Avolinitis

• Fundraising – Myrlene Sundberg

• Club Service & International Service – Bruce Gravel

• Public Image – Catherine Hanrahan

• Community Service – Laurie Heigh

• New Generations/Youth – Mary Anne Greco

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Lakefield Jazz, Art & Craft Festival Returns to Isabel Morris Park On July 11

The Lakefield Jazz, Art & Craft Festival is back this year to bring a full day of live music, artisan shopping, local food and community celebration at the Isabel Morris Park on July 11 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.

The festival combines live jazz performances with handcrafted works from artisans and makers from across the region.

This year’s live Jazz Performances Festival lineup is as follows:

• 11 a.m. – Carpe Noctem

• 12:50 p.m. – The Dixie Demons

• 2:40 p.m. – Carling Stephen

• 4:30 p.m. – Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet

• 6:20 p.m. – SNAGGLE

• 8:10 p.m. – The Keith Guy Band

Visitors can browse a curated selection of artisan and craft vendors featuring original artwork, pottery, jewellery, textiles, woodworking, home décor and more.

A variety of food and beverage vendors will be on-site selling gourmet meals and sweet treats to refreshing beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Admission is $12 at the gate (cash and debit accepted).

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