James Gang Open Playoffs Against Hamilton Bengals this Weekend

By Scott Arnold

The Eakins Heating & Cooling Ennismore James Gang are set to begin their playoff run this weekend with a best-of-three first-round series against the Hamilton Bengals.

the ennismore james gang will begin their playoffs this weekend against the hamilton bengals, with Game 2 set to take place at the Lakefield-Smith Community Centre on Sunday, July 19 at 4 pm (photo via facebook @jamesganglax

The James Gang finished the Ontario Series Lacrosse regular season in fifth place with a 3-9 record and will now face the fourth-seeded Bengals in the opening round of the playoffs.

The two teams split their regular season meetings. Hamilton, who finished the season with a 6-6 record, earned a 10-1 victory on home floor on May 9 before the James Gang responded with a 9-7 win in Ennismore on June 7.

The series opens Saturday, July 18 at 7 pm at Dave Andreychuk Arena in Hamilton.

Game 2 shifts to the Lakefield-Smith Community Centre on Sunday, July 19 at 4 pm, where the James Gang will look to use home-floor advantage to keep their playoff hopes alive.

If necessary, Game 3 will be played Tuesday, July 21 at 8 pm back at Dave Andreychuk Arena.

Fans unable to attend the games can follow the series through the team's social media channels, where game updates, highlights and behind-the-scenes content will be shared throughout the series. Live scoring will also be available through the Ontario Series Lacrosse website.

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

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Joanna Bronson Excited to Continue Family Legacy at Peterborough Musicfest

By Scott Arnold

For Joanna Bronson, performing at Peterborough Musicfest is more than another show. It’s a full-circle moment years in the making, bringing together her own musical journey, her father’s legacy in the local music scene, and a chance to share her sound with the Peterborough community at Del Crary Park.

local artist joanna bronson has making making a name for herself in the local music scene and on wednesday she’ll be performing at peterborough musicfest, kicking the night off at 6:30pm on the side stage (photo by scott arnold)

Bronson will take the side stage at Del Crary Park on Wednesday, July 15 as part of the Peterborough Musicfest Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, opening the night before country artist Tyler Joe Miller takes the main stage.

For the local singer-songwriter, the opportunity represents a goal she has been working toward for years.

“I’m just so excited to kind of continue that legacy,” Bronson said. “It’s been a goal of mine to get here, so I’m just happy that I was invited this year.”

Music has always been part of Bronson’s life, thanks in large part to her father, longtime local musician Danny Bronson. Growing up, she spent years around stages and performances before eventually taking her own path away from music.

When she returned to it later in life, Bronson said music became an important part of finding her way back.

“It was a really healing place for me,” she said.

Her father played a major role in helping her reconnect with the local music scene, quickly welcoming her to join him for performances and encouraging her to build confidence as an artist in her own right.

“He’s really been pivotal for me getting back into the music scene,” Bronson said. “But also just finding my own way and meeting new people and working with different people too.”

While she has deep roots in the local music community, Bronson has been carving out her own identity as an artist.

“It’s different, but it’s good,” she said. “I’m enjoying it.”

Wednesday’s performance will also be a special one for her family. With friends and relatives travelling from near and far to watch, including some making the trip from Ottawa, Bronson expects plenty of familiar faces in the crowd.

For her father, who has performed at venues throughout the region and was cemented on the Peterborough Pathway of Fame at Crary Park in 1999, seeing his daughter take the Musicfest stage will be another memorable chapter in the family’s musical story.

“It’s kind of like that full-circle moment,” Bronson said. “Every summer kind of comes back to the park in some way.”

Bronson has also leaned on the many musicians who have helped shape Peterborough’s vibrant music scene. She pointed to artists like Kevin Foster and Ty Wilson as people who have supported and inspired her, while also looking to the legacy of local music icon Colleen Peterson.

“Colleen Peterson is a huge inspiration,” Bronson said. “Her legacy lives on in just doing her own thing, going down to Nashville and then coming back up here and making a name for herself as well.”

“Peterborough is incredibly blessed with musical talent,” Bronson added. “You don’t have to go far to find the next person.”

Bronson will kick off the night at 6:30 p.m. from the Future Sound Series stage, followed by Tyler Joe Miller’s Peterborough Musicfest debut on the main stage at 8 p.m.

Admission is free, with concertgoers encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music on the shores of Little Lake.

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

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Assault with a Weapon and Robbery with Violence Charges Laid Against Peterborough Man Already on Probation

A 28-year-old Peterborough man is facing multiple charges following an alleged assault and robbery Friday evening.

a peterborough man already on probation is now facing new charges, including robbery with violence and assault with a weapon (photo via instagram @peterboroughpolice)

Peterborough Police say officers were called to the area of Brock Street and Chambers Street at approximately 4:15 pm on Friday, July 10, after receiving a report of an assault in progress.

When officers arrived, they learned a victim had allegedly been assaulted with a piece of wood. Police say the suspect had left the area before officers arrived, but a description of the individual was shared with officers in the area.

A man matching the description was later located near Murray Street and arrested.

Through the investigation, police say it was determined that the suspect had also taken property from the victim during the assault.

A 28-year-old Peterborough man has been charged with assault with a weapon, robbery with violence, and four counts of failing to comply with a probation order.

The accused was held in custody and appeared in Weekend and Statutory Holiday (WASH) court on July 11.

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Selwyn Man Facing Charges After Police say he Drove Impaired, Assaulted his Partner and Spit at Officers

A 34-year-old Selwyn man is facing multiple charges following a reported intimate partner assault and impaired driving investigation Friday night.

Selwyn Man facing numerous charges after police say he drove impaired, assaulted his partner and then spit at officers (photo via instagram @peterboroughpolice)

Peterborough Police say officers were called shortly after midnight on Friday, July 10, after receiving a report from a victim who said they had been assaulted by their partner while inside a vehicle.

Police say the vehicle was believed to be in the downtown area. Officers searched the area and located the vehicle near Rubidge Street and Parkhill Road, where they spoke with the driver and observed signs of impairment.

During the investigation into the reported intimate partner violence incident and suspected impaired operation, police say the accused became uncooperative and spat at officers.

A 34-year-old Selwyn man was arrested and charged with spousal assault, assaulting a peace officer, operation while impaired with a blood alcohol concentration over 80, and operation while impaired by alcohol and drugs.

The accused was held in custody and appeared in Weekend and Statutory Holiday (WASH) court on July 11.

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Heat Warning Issued for Peterborough and Surrounding Region

By Scott Arnold

A Yellow Heat Warning is in effect across Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton, with hot and humid conditions expected to last through Thursday.

lakeland public health has issued a heat warning for the area. daytime highs are forecasted to reach up to 37° C, with a humidex of 38 to 45, while Overnight lows are expected to remain above 20-24°C. the heat warning is expected to end Thursday,

Lakelands Public Health is encouraging residents to take precautions as temperatures climb over the next several days. Daytime highs are expected to reach up to 37 C, with humidex values between 38 and 45. Overnight temperatures are also forecast to stay above 20 to 24 C, offering little relief from the heat.

The prolonged heat increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant people, those with certain chronic health conditions, people working outdoors and anyone without access to air conditioning.

Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and avoid strenuous outdoor activities whenever possible.

Lakelands Public Health is also asking people to check in on friends, family and neighbours, especially those who live alone or may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.

Anyone experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, nausea, headaches or extreme thirst should move to a cool place and drink water immediately. Signs of heat stroke, including confusion, fainting, a body temperature above 39 C or hot, dry skin, require immediate medical attention by calling 911.

The heat warning is expected to remain in effect until Thursday, July 16.

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

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Free Water Refill Stations Open Across Peterborough

By Scott Arnold

Residents can refill reusable water bottles for free at several parks and municipal facilities across Peterborough this summer.

free water stations are available throughout peterborough to help residents stay cool during the summer heat, including this one at quaker foods city square downtown (photo by scott arnold)

The City of Peterborough is reminding residents that free water refill stations are available at a number of locations across the city.

Outdoor refill stations can be found at Quaker Foods City Square, Eastgate Park, the Marina, Beavermead Park, Rogers Cove and Bonnerworth Park.

Indoor refill stations are available during regular operating hours at the Peterborough Public Library, the Social Services office, the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, Miskin Law Community Complex, Healthy Planet Arena and Kinsmen Civic Centre.

Residents are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle when visiting City parks and facilities this summer and take advantage of the free refill stations available throughout Peterborough.

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

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Jr. C Lakers Even Central Division Final With Game 2 Win in Whitby

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. C Lakers are heading home with the Central Division Final tied after edging the Whitby Warriors 8-7 in Game 2 on Sunday afternoon.

the peterborough jr c lakers beat whitby on sunday to knot the central division final at a game apiece. game 3 goes wednesday at 8pm at the healthy planet arena (photo courtesy of facebook @ptbojrclakers)

The Lakers rebounded from their Game 1 loss by earning a split on the road in Whitby, evening the best-of-five series at one game apiece.

Peterborough led 4-2 after the first period and carried a 7-5 advantage into the third. Whitby battled back to tie the game with a pair of power-play goals before Ryder Perry scored the game winner with 13:47 remaining to give the Lakers the victory.

Game 3 is set for Wednesday at 8 pm at Healthy Planet Arena, with the series now guaranteed to return to Whitby for Game 4 on Friday if necessary.

Perry led the Lakers with five goals, including the game winner, while Quinn Jacobs scored twice and Braxtin Howard added the other goal.

Howard also chipped in two assists, while Bobby Crowe recorded two assists. Charlie Evans finished with two assists, with Kyson Campbell, Ricky Bevan and Cardiff Mader adding one assist each.

Game 3 of the best-of-five series is set for Wednesday at 8pm at the Healthy Planet Arena.

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

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Pick Family Legacy Lives On Through New Affordable Housing at The Mount

By Scott Arnold

An emotional dedication ceremony celebrated a transformational gift that completed 11 new affordable housing apartments while reminding everyone that behind every donation is a life being changed.

Martin and denise pick (on the left) and dr. Rardi Van Heest and charles pick with the plaque that was unveilled at the mount on friday in honour of the donation from the remembering otto and marie pick charitable foundation (photo by scott arnold)

There were plenty of thank yous, speeches and presentations inside Austin Doran Hall on Friday morning, but it was one resident's story that reminded everyone exactly why they had gathered.

The Mount Community Centre officially dedicated its newest residential wing in honour of the Remembering Otto and Marie Pick Charitable Foundation, recognizing the family's transformational donation that helped complete 11 new affordable housing apartments and structural improvements to the historic building. The project marked the completion of the final residential section of The Mount, with construction finishing in October 2025.

Board Chair Stephen Kylie said the donation was about much more than completing a construction project.

"You didn't just write a cheque, you invested deeply in the people this building will serve in our community for years to come," Kylie told the Pick family.

martin pick shaking hands with mount board chair stephen kylie and the mayor jeff leal and the rest of the pick family look on (photo by scott arnold)

Throughout the ceremony, speaker after speaker praised the Pick family's generosity and commitment to helping others. Community leaders, including Mayor Jeff Leal and MPP Dave Smith, joined Mount Community Centre staff, volunteers and supporters in celebrating both the family's legacy and the impact the new apartments will have on affordable housing in Peterborough.

mayor jeff leal, the pick family and board members from the mount gathered for a picture after a touching ceremony today to announce the details of a donation from the remembering otto and marie pick charitable foundation (photo by scott arnold)

But the focus wasn't simply on the building itself. It was about what those apartments now mean for the people who call them home.

One of those people is Lisa Masters.

Fighting back emotion, Masters shared how a series of life-changing events, including health challenges, financial struggles and isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, left her searching for somewhere safe and affordable to live.

"I am one of the recipients of your generosity," Masters said.

She told those gathered that finding a home at The Mount changed everything. For someone living on a disability pension while awaiting a kidney transplant, having a clean, safe and supportive place to live has made an enormous difference, not only to her physical health but to her outlook on life.

"It's very difficult to find a safe place that is clean... and most of all makes you feel like you actually have a home," she said.
Her heartfelt remarks left many in the room visibly emotional.

For Charles Pick, grandson of Otto and Marie Pick, hearing her story became the defining moment of the day.

"Lisa, thank you for sharing your story," Pick began before telling the audience, "You put a face on that and it really adds so much more meaning to what we do."

lisa masters listening to a speaker today at the mount community centre with the pick family behind her. masters shared a very emotional story about her journey and how the donation from the pick family have helped her find a safe place to call home (photo by scott arnold)

During his remarks, Pick reflected on the foundation created to honour his grandparents, who fled Czechoslovakia just months before the Nazi invasion in 1938 and eventually built a successful seed business after arriving in Canada.

That business later grew into one of the world's largest forage seed companies before being sold in 2013. The proceeds helped expand the family's charitable foundation, allowing it to support projects focused on healthcare, housing, food security and poverty.

The foundation's mission, he explained, is rooted in helping people facing social need while supporting quality healthcare, with the hope that investments like affordable housing create positive ripple effects throughout the community.

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Following the ceremony, Pick and his wife, Dr. Rardi Van Heest, said Masters' story gave deeper meaning to the family's philanthropy.

"When we start donating and we think about what we want to achieve, we think of a building, rooms, apartments," Van Heest said. "It's really nice when you actually get to hear from somebody who's there, who's using it. It provides a lot of context to everything we do because you don't always get to see the people that you impact."

Pick agreed, saying it was a powerful reminder that the project was never just about constructing apartments.

"It's not just rooms and numbers," he said. "It's an entire person's life that is being dramatically changed."

He admitted his family isn't comfortable being the centre of attention and said hearing from residents was far more meaningful than receiving recognition.

"It was nice to be able to focus on what our work had actually been able to accomplish."

mpp dave smith (right) presented ba certificate to board chair stephen kylie (middle) and Charles pick (photo by scott arnold)

The foundation's connection to Peterborough runs deep.

Although the Pick family's charitable work stretches across Ontario, Peterborough has become an important part of that legacy. Pick said his parents have lived in the city since the early 1990s, making it a community the family genuinely wants to invest in.

"We've been very fortunate," he said. "To be able to give back is a privilege for us because it creates a better place for the people that we're helping, but also for us too."

Van Heest added that giving back simply comes with the ability to help.

"When you have the ability to do something, I think you should. Because if not us, then who? And if not now, then when?" she said.

The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of commemorative plaques that will permanently recognize the Pick family's contribution and ensure future residents know the story behind the new wing.

the mount community centre unveilled the plaque that will go near the entrance, recognizing the generous donation from the remembering otto and marie charitable foundation (photo by

By the end of the morning, it was clear the day wasn't simply about the completion of a construction project.

It was about a family's legacy, a community coming together, and the lives that will continue to be changed every time someone finds a safe place to call home.

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

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Break-Ins at Two Peterborough Businesses Believed to be Connected

Police are investigating two early morning break-ins that happened about an hour apart and are asking for the public's help to identify three suspects.

peterborough police are looking for suspects after two early morning break-ins that occured on friday (screenshot from peterborough police youtube video)

Peterborough Police say officers responded to two commercial break-ins during the early morning hours of Friday, July 10, and investigators believe the incidents are connected.

The first happened at about 1 am at a gas station on Highway 7 near Brown Line. After arriving at the scene and confirming no one was inside the building, officers reviewed security footage that showed a red SUV pulling up to the business. Police say three people got out of the vehicle, smashed a window, entered the store and left with two storage totes filled with items.

About an hour later, at approximately 2 am, officers were called to a convenience store in the Park Street South and Braidwood Avenue area. According to police, security video shows the same type of red SUV arriving before two suspects smashed their way into the business and fled with storage totes of merchandise.

Police have released descriptions of the three suspects:

• Suspect 1: Believed to be a white male, about 5-foot-10, wearing black Nike joggers, black Jordan sneakers, a black balaclava and red gloves. Police say this person was driving the SUV.

• Suspect 2: Believed to be a white male, about 6 feet tall, wearing a black sweatsuit, black balaclava, black leather gloves and grey Adidas sneakers. Police say this suspect was carrying a sledgehammer.

• Suspect 3: Believed to be a white male, about 6 feet tall, wearing a black zippered hoodie, green camouflage cargo shorts over black pants, black boots, a camouflage balaclava and black gloves.

Investigators believe the two break-ins are connected. Anyone with information is asked to contact Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 ext. 555 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.

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City Seeking Public Feedback on Park Street North Improvements

Peterborough residents are being asked to share their feedback on proposed transportation improvements for Park Street North before the plans go to City Council.

The City of Peterborough is reviewing transportation safety, cycling, and pedestrian improvements for Park Street North from Wolsely Street to Sherbrooke Street (photo via city of peterborough)

The City of Peterborough has launched a public consultation for proposed changes to Park Street North between Wolsely Street and Sherbrooke Street as part of planned road resurfacing work in 2026.

The proposed improvements are aimed at making the corridor safer and more connected for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. The work would be completed within the existing roadway, meaning there would be no changes to sidewalks, trees, driveways or boulevards.

Some of the proposed changes include adding cycling facilities, reducing speed limits, narrowing travel lanes to help discourage speeding, and improving pedestrian safety. The City is also considering changes to on-street parking in some sections of the corridor.

Park Street is undergoing road surface repairs in 2026. As a part of this work, new asphalt and pavement markings will be applied to the roadway (image via city of peterborough)

Residents can review the proposed plans and provide feedback through an online survey and comment form until 11:59 pm on Wednesday, July 22.

The feedback collected during the consultation will help shape the final recommendations that will be presented to Peterborough City Council.

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