Lakers Move Into Third Place After Wild Win Over North Stars

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers climbed back above .500 and into third place in the Major Series Lacrosse standings Thursday night, defeating the Owen Sound North Stars 13-5 in a game that featured plenty of offence, as well as a goalie fight late in the second period.

the two goalies went at it thursday night, with owen sound’s Andrew kidd (left) and peterborough’s decan knott squaring up late in the second period

The victory improves Peterborough to 7-6 on the season, moving the Lakers past Brooklin and into third place in the MSL standings with a game in hand.

While the final score was lopsided, the game will likely be remembered for what happened late in the second period.

With the Lakers leading 12-2, Jake Withers was involved in a scrum after being high-sticked in the corner. As officials escorted him away, Owen Sound starting goaltender Kaleb Martin, who had already been pulled earlier in the game, left the North Stars bench to challenge Withers, with the two exchanging several punches after breaking free from the referees who were doing their best to keep them apart.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by THE HUB Peterborough (@thehubptbo)

Seconds after officials separated them, Owen Sound goaltender Andrew Kidd left his crease and sprinted the length of the floor to challenge Lakers netminder Deacan Knott. After both goalies removed their upper equipment and squared up in the Lakers zone, they exchanged punches at the same time. Knott's punch landed flush, sending Kidd stumbling backwards before falling to the turf. All three goaltenders involved in the altercations were ejected from the game.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ptbo_canada (@ptbo_canada)

Before the fireworks, the Lakers had already taken complete control.

Peterborough built a 5-0 lead after the opening period behind two goals from Holden Cattoni, along with singles from Rob Hellyer, Justin Sykes and Mike Robinson. Robinson also made history with one of the night's highlight-reel goals, scoring on a beautiful dunk play from behind the net.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Century 21 Peterborough Lakers (@ptbolakerslax)

The Lakers stretched their advantage to 12-0 before Owen Sound finally broke through, with Dustyn Birkhof scoring twice in the second period. The veteran defenceman finished with a career-high three points, including the first multi-goal game of his MSL career.

Birkhof downplayed his rare offensive outburst and gave all the credit to his teammates, saying “we’ve just got hard working guys all around on our team, getting all the loose balls and they’re the ones making the play and I just got lucky and got the ball a few times”.

Braedon Saris and DJ Clark also scored twice, Robinson added his second of the night, and Hellyer capped his two-goal performance with Peterborough's final goal in the third period.

Knott stopped the first 35 minutes without allowing a goal before his ejection, while Nick Rose came on in relief to finish the game.

Peterborough received balanced scoring throughout the lineup. Saris led the way with six points on two goals and four assists, while Hellyer recorded five points (2G, 3A). Robinson and Clark each finished with four points (2G, 2A), Cattoni had four points (2G, 2A), Birkhof collected three (2G, 1A), Sykes added two (1G, 1A), Thomas Hoggarth chipped in two assists, and Dylan Hutchison recorded an assist.

The Lakers outshot Owen Sound 59-43 and converted three of six power-play opportunities in front of a crowd of 2,185 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Peterborough returns to action next Thursday when the second-place Oakville Rock make their only regular season visit to the PMC for Little Lakers Night in support of Five Counties Children's Centre.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.