Peterborough Petes' Alex Darling Named to Hockey Canada Staff

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough Petes Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager Alex Darling has been selected to represent Hockey Canada at this year's National Under-17 Development Camp and the 2026 U17 World Challenge.

Peterborough Petes Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager Alex Darling has been selected to represent Hockey Canada later this year at the u17 world challenge in oakville (photo courtesy of the peterborough petes, via david pickering)

Hockey Canada announced Thursday that Darling has been named video coach for Team White, one of two Canadian teams that will compete at the 2026 U17 World Challenge, taking place Nov. 1 to 7 in Oakville.

Before the tournament, Darling will also serve on Team White's staff at Hockey Canada's National Under-17 Development Camp, which runs July 17 to 21 at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex in Oakville. The camp will bring together many of the country's top under-17 players for practices and exhibition games before final evaluations are made ahead of the tournament.

Darling has been with the Peterborough Petes organization since 2021, first joining as a sales and service intern before moving into an administration and community engagement internship the following year.

He was promoted to Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager before the 2023-24 season after serving as the team's video coordinator. Darling was also part of the Petes coaching staff during the club's 2023 Ontario Hockey League championship run.

A graduate of Brock University's Sport Management program, Darling has continued to take on a larger role with the Petes organization, and his selection by Hockey Canada marks another milestone in his coaching career.

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

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Public Art Installation Underway at Peterborough Transit Terminal

By Scott Arnold

Work has begun on a new public art installation at the Peterborough Transit Terminal, with some temporary changes in place for transit riders over the next several weeks.

work on a public art installation has begun has the simcoe street transit terminal in downtown peterborough (photo by scott arnold)

Crews have started installing the artwork at the Simcoe Street Transit Terminal as part of the City's ongoing investment in public art and placemaking.

Installation is expected to take about four weeks and will take place between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

The work will be completed in sections, beginning at the west end of the terminal before moving east through the bus bays. To accommodate the installation, up to two transit bays will be closed at a time. Bus routes that normally use those bays will be temporarily relocated to stops along Simcoe Street until work in each area is finished.

Equipment and machinery will be on site throughout the project, and transit users are encouraged to watch for posted signage while moving through the terminal.

The Peterborough Transit customer service desk will remain open during construction. Hours are 8:30 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday, and 9 am to noon and 12:30 pm to 4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

The public art project is part of the broader rehabilitation of the Simcoe Street Transit Terminal. Backed by a $100,000 budget, the artwork will be integrated into the exterior of the terminal and is intended to enhance the space through creative expression and community storytelling.

Work has begun on a new public art installation at the Peterborough Transit Terminal, with some temporary changes in place for transit riders over the next several weeks (photo by scott arnold)

The project is funded through a combination of municipal investment and support from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program as part of the terminal rehabilitation project.

The selected artist and the final design will be officially recognized during a celebration planned for the fall.

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

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Fundraisers Fridays Return to Bring Local Non-Profit Professionals Together

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough and Area Fundraisers' Network is once again inviting local fundraisers to step away from their desks and connect with colleagues during its weekly summer Fundraisers Fridays gatherings.

Peterborough and Area Fundraisers' Network will meet every friday for the next eight weeks (photo via instagram @ptbofundraisers)

Now in its second year, Fundraisers Fridays offers a casual opportunity for people working in fundraising and the social profit sector to network, share ideas and unwind over lunch.

Beginning today, the free gatherings take place every Friday from 12 pm to 1 pm throughout July and August at Silver Bean Cafe, with no formal agenda. While registration isn't required, organizers encourage participants to sign up in advance to receive event updates and reminders.

This year's eight meetups are scheduled for July 10, 17, 24 and 31, followed by Aug. 7, 14, 21 and 28.

Fundraisers Fridays is organized by the Peterborough and Area Fundraisers' Network (PAFN), a member-driven organization that has supported fundraising professionals across the region since 1997.

PAFN was created after local fundraisers recognized that many smaller charities, particularly those run by volunteers, were struggling to keep up with changing Canada Revenue Agency requirements. The network was established to provide education, professional development and networking opportunities while helping strengthen fundraising practices across the local social profit sector.

Today, PAFN's mission is to support fundraising excellence through career development, learning opportunities and a welcoming community where fundraisers and related professionals can connect, grow and share ideas.

Anyone interested in attending Fundraisers Fridays is welcome to participate, whether they're a longtime fundraising professional or new to the sector.

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

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Peterborough Native Evan Fitzgerald Signs With Defending Memorial Cup Champion Kitchener Rangers

By Scott Arnold

Another young Peterborough hockey player is taking the next step in his career, with forward Evan Fitzgerald officially signing an Ontario Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Kitchener Rangers.

peterborough native evan fitzgerald was all smiles after being drafted by the defending memorial cup kitchener rangers at the ohl priority selection last month (photo via instagram @ohlrangers)

The 15-year-old was selected by defending Memorial Cup Champions in the second round, 41st overall, of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection after a strong season with the Vaughan Kings U16 AAA program.

Fitzgerald recorded 16 goals and 17 assists for 33 points in 32 regular-season games before adding five points, including two goals, in four OHL Cup games.

The signing continues a family tradition in the OHL. Evan's older brother, Colin Fitzgerald, is a member of the Soo Greyhounds and was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the 2026 NHL Draft. Colin is also familiar to Peterborough hockey fans after being chosen third overall by the Peterborough Petes in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection.

Their father, Rob Fitzgerald, also played in the OHL, suiting up for the Owen Sound Platers and Belleville Bulls during his junior career.

Kitchener General Manager Mike McKenzie described Fitzgerald as a tenacious, hard-to-play-against forward who creates offence by winning battles and competing in the hard areas of the ice, adding that the Rangers believe his style of play will translate well to the OHL.

Signing the agreement marks another milestone for Fitzgerald as he prepares to attend the Rangers' training camp and begin the next chapter of his hockey career.

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

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Peterborough Man Arrested in East City After Exposing Himself Outside of Home

A 36-year-old Peterborough man is facing multiple charges after police say a series of concerning incidents involving a neighbour led to an arrest.

a peterorough man ws arrested near mark and hunter streets in east city this week after police say he was exposing himself outside a home and causing a disturbance

According to the Peterborough Police Service, officers were contacted on July 8th, after a resident reported concerning behaviour from a neighbour.

Police say video evidence was reviewed showing several incidents that occurred during the early morning hours of July 7th. The incidents reportedly included the accused knocking on the victim’s windows, yelling and exposing his genitals toward the home.

Officers later located the suspect in the area of Hunter Street and Mark Street and took him into custody. During a search following the arrest, police say cocaine was located and seized.

A 36-year-old Peterborough man has been charged with indecent act, possession of a Schedule I substance (cocaine) and disobeying an order of court.

Police say the accused was already bound by a court order requiring him to keep the peace and be of good behaviour.

The accused was held in custody and was scheduled to appear in court today.

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Petes Sign First Round Pick Landon Roulston to OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Petes have officially added one of their top selections from the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, signing forward Landon Roulston to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.

the peterborough jr c lakers will look to even their series with the warriors when they travel to whitby for game 2 on sunday (photo via facebook @peterboroughjrclakers)

Roulston was selected by the Petes with the 13th overall pick in this year’s draft and is now set to continue his hockey development with the organization.

The Oakville forward joins Peterborough after a strong season with the Vaughan Kings U16s of the Greater Toronto Hockey League. In 33 games, Roulston recorded 18 goals and 20 assists for 38 points, finishing second on his team in scoring.

He also helped the Kings capture the GTHL Championship before adding four points in four games at the OHL Cup.

The 6-foot-2 forward was one of the players who made an impression during the Petes’ Development Camp earlier this summer, according to General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke.

“Landon is a big, strong, two-way forward who loves to compete,” said Oke. “He possesses the skill and character that we look for in a Peterborough Pete.”

Roulston said he is excited for the opportunity to join the organization.

“It feels awesome to join such a prestigious organization,” said Roulston. “It’s a really big step in my hockey journey and I am looking forward to getting started with this group. Now the real work begins.”

The Petes will begin their preseason schedule in Guelph on August 28th, with their first home preseason game set for September 3rd at 7pm when they host Sarnia at the PMC.

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

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Fleming College Blasting Program Featured on TVOkids Series

By Scott Arnold

A unique Fleming College program is getting a national spotlight, as TVOkids takes young viewers behind the scenes of the specialized world of blasting and skilled trades.

rock blasting expert bill smith, coordinator of fleming college’s blasting techniques program, reacting to a blast with brody agmon, host popular TVOkids educational series, Trading Skills (screenshot from youtube/@tvokids)

The College’s Blasting Techniques program at the Frost Campus in Lindsay will be featured in an upcoming episode of the TVOkids series Trading Skills, giving viewers a closer look at one of Canada’s most specialized trades programs.

The episode was filmed at Fleming’s outdoor learning facilities and features Bill Smith, Program Coordinator for the Blasting Techniques program, alongside Trading Skills co-host Brody Agmon.

Brody agmon, one of the host of the TVOkids series Trading Skills was at Fleming colleges Frost campus to learn about rock blasting from the coordinator of fleming’s blasting techniques program bill smith (screenshot from youtube/@tvokids)

During the episode, viewers learn how blasting professionals contribute to infrastructure projects and the Canadian economy, while also discovering a career path that many may not know exists.

Fleming’s Blasting Techniques program is the only training program of its kind in Canada and prepares students for careers in the explosives industry through hands-on learning.

“Many people don't even know this trade exists, so we’re glad to showcase the Frost Campus and plant that seed early for kids,” said Smith. “Our program is perfect for anyone who loves working outdoors and wants a rewarding career.”

fleming colleges blasting techniques program was featured in an episode of the popular TVOkids educational series,Trading Skills (screenshot from youtube/@tvokids)

The partnership with TVOkids is aimed at introducing young people to skilled trades and highlighting the variety of career opportunities available in technical fields.

The episode featuring Fleming College is scheduled to air on TVOkids on Sunday, July 12 at 12:10 p.m. It is also available to watch through TVOkids’ digital platforms and YouTube channel.

Fleming College offers a variety of skilled trades training opportunities, including programs at the Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre at the Sutherland Campus in Peterborough and drilling and blasting programs at the Frost Campus in Lindsay.

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

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More Family Doctor Spaces Opening Across Peterborough

By Scott Arnold

Finding a family doctor could soon become easier for more Peterborough residents, as several new physicians join local clinics and existing practices expand their patient capacity across the city.

More residents will have the opportunity to access primary healthcare this summer as new family physicians establish practices, and local clinics expand to welcome patients in Peterborough

Access to primary care is getting a boost this summer, with multiple clinics either accepting new patients now or preparing to welcome additional family physicians in the coming weeks.

Among the changes, East City Medical Centre on Armour Road has added Dr. Abimbola Ekundayo, with another physician, Dr. Akeredolu, expected to join the practice on Aug. 1. The clinic now offers both family medicine and walk-in care seven days a week.

Valleyview Medical has also expanded, with new locations at Lansdowne Mall and Peterborough Pharmacy. Dr. Henry Oghotuoma and Dr. Babajide Odusan are now accepting patients, while Dr. Rubayat Chowdhury, a Peterborough resident returning after completing his family medicine residency in the United States, is also expected to begin seeing patients this month.

Northcrest Pharmacy and Medical Clinic has added Dr. Emmanuel Onifade as it continues to grow its healthcare services, while Springdale Medical Centre has welcomed Dr. Offiong. Although Dr. Offiong's practice is already full, the clinic continues to accept patients through Ontario's Health Care Connect program.

Many of the expanding clinics also offer evening, weekend and walk-in appointments, helping improve access to care beyond traditional office hours.

Residents who do not currently have a family physician, or who travel outside the region for primary care, are encouraged to contact the clinics directly, as each manages its own patient registration process.

The City of Peterborough, the Peterborough Ontario Health Team and local healthcare partners are also working on a centralized online resource that will help residents find clinics and healthcare providers accepting new patients. The website is expected to launch this fall and will be updated as additional family doctor spaces become available.

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

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Peterborough Jr. C Lakers Drop Division Final Opener to Whitby

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. C Lakers will look to even their Central Division Final series on Sunday after dropping Game 1 to the Whitby Warriors 8-5 Wednesday night at Healthy Planet Arena.

the peterborough jr c lakers will look to even their series with the warriors when they travel to whitby for game 2 on sunday (photo via facebook @peterboroughjrclakers)

Whitby built a 3-1 lead after the opening period before both teams scored three goals in the second. Peterborough narrowed the gap to 6-5 midway through the third period, but the Warriors scored twice in the final 7:30 to secure the victory and take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

Braxtin Howard led the Lakers with two goals and two assists, while Ryder Perry picked up a goal and two assists. Kennen Withers added a goal and an assist, with Hayden Heigh scoring Peterborough's other goal.

Quinn Jacobs recorded two assists, while Ryder Evans added one assist.

Game 2 is set for Sunday at 2 pm at the McKinney Centre in Whitby before the series returns to Healthy Planet Arena for Game 3 on Wednesday at 8 pm.

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

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Trent University Launches New Master’s Degree In Computer Science to Advance Canada's Technology Expertise

Trent University has launched a new Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer Science program, providing advanced training and hands-on research experience in fields that are shaping Canada’s digital future, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data science.  

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“The launch of Trent’s master’s in Computer Science responds to a clear and growing need for highly qualified professionals across Canada,” said Dr. Craig Brunetti, dean of Trent’s School of Graduate Studies. “This program directly supports regional and national priorities for job growth in the digital economy, where demand for skilled talent continues to outpace supply. Trent has strengths in applied research, personalized graduate training and a commitment to integrating computing investigations with real-world contexts. The degree ensures that graduates are prepared to be leaders in shaping the future of technology and contribute to Canadian initiatives like the AI for All strategy.”

Welcoming its first cohort this September, the new Computer Science M.Sc. builds on Trent’s established undergraduate programs in Computer Science and Data Analytics. All of which feature faculty expertise and research in artificial intelligence, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science and computational modelling.

According to Trent, this further leverages Trent’s existing graduate research capacity and expertise in the Applied Modelling & Quantitative Methods program, supporting opportunities for advanced interdisciplinary computational research.  

“Research in Computer Science has defined and will continue to define how we work, play and communicate,” said Dr. Brian Patrick, chair and associate professor in the Department of Computer Science. “Over the short time of only a few decades, e-commerce, social media, data analytics and artificial intelligence, among other branches of computer science, have all had a major impact on how we conduct our day-to-day lives.” 

As part of the two-year program, M.Sc. students will complete a thesis project under the supervision of faculty experts. Students will be able to explore emerging topics such as intelligent systems, natural language processing, software testing, database systems, algorithms, cybersecurity and AI applications in software engineering, according to Trent University.

The program emphasizes hands-on application of advanced computing methods, including collaboration with industry partners on research questions, as well as theoretical depth and analysis and opportunities to present their work at sector conferences.

“With the launch of this program, the Department of Computer Science is helping more students from Canada and around the world embark on an exciting path forward and contribute to defining the digital future,” said Patrick.

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