Former Peterborough Pete Nick Robertson Signs With Pittsburgh

By Scott Arnold

Former Peterborough Petes standout Nick Robertson has a new NHL home after signing a two-year contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

former peterborough petes nick robertson has inked a deal with the pittsburgh penguins (photo via instagram @nickrobertson01)

The Penguins announced Tuesday that the 24-year-old forward has signed a two-year deal worth an average annual value of $3.25 million. Robertson was acquired by Pittsburgh from the Toronto Maple Leafs on July 1 in exchange for a 2028 fourth-round draft pick.

Before making the jump to the professional ranks, Robertson spent three seasons with the Peterborough Petes from 2017 to 2020, becoming one of the club's most dynamic goal scorers. He finished his OHL career with 97 goals and 77 assists for 174 points in 162 regular season games.

His 55-goal performance during the 2019-20 season remains one of the most memorable offensive campaigns in recent Petes history. Robertson became the first Peterborough player in 27 years to reach the 50-goal mark, joining Jason Dawe, who scored 58 goals, and Mike Harding, who had 54 during the 1992-93 season. He also led the entire OHL in goals that year, including a league-best eight shorthanded goals.

Robertson spent the past six seasons in the Maple Leafs organization and is coming off the best NHL season of his career. He set career highs with 16 goals, 16 assists and 32 points in 78 games with Toronto during the 2025-26 campaign.

In 234 NHL games, all with the Maple Leafs, Robertson has recorded 48 goals and 40 assists for 88 points. He has also appeared in 13 Stanley Cup playoff games, collecting two goals and one assist.

The Arcadia, California native was selected by Toronto in the second round, 53rd overall, of the 2019 NHL Draft and also represented the United States at the 2020 World Junior Championship, where he had five points in five games.

Robertson will now look to continue building on his breakout season as he begins the next chapter of his NHL career in Pittsburgh.

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

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Trent University Researchers Awarded Over $3.2 Million for STEM Projects

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has awarded more than $3.27 million to 14 researchers at Trent University.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The money comes from the latest round of Discovery Grant research funding.

“These awards reflect Trent University's longstanding strength in scientific research and our extraordinary researchers,” said Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, interim vice-president of Research & Innovation at Trent University. "Trent faculty lead the way in scientific questions with real-world impact, and I am thrilled about their well-deserved recognition.”

NSERC Discovery Grants & Supplements
Total awarded: $2,930,000 over five years, plus $75,000 in Discovery Launch Supplements 

• Dr. Carolyn Baer, Psychology: Uncovering the Structure of Confidence Representations in Childhood

• Dr. Katharine Clark, Mathematics: Robust Model-Based Clustering Methods for Complex Data

• Dr. Huy Dang, Trent School of the Environment: The Ecological and Climate Implications of Rare Earth Elements as Critical Elements

• Dr. Paul Frost, Biology: Lake Stoichiometry in a Changing World

• Dr. Robert Huber, Biology: Lysosomal Enzyme Trafficking in Dictyostelium discoideum

• Dr. Maggie MacPherson, Biology: Quantifying and Explaining Loss of Bird Migration with Global Change

• Dr. Joseph Northrup, Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program: Drivers and Consequences of Habitat Selection

• Dr. Makhdumabanu Farukali Saiyed, Computing & Information Systems: An Intelligent Framework for Adaptive Cyber Defense and Decision Support in Mission-Critical IoT Networks

• Dr. Peter Sues, Chemistry: Controlling the Secondary Coordination Sphere in Calixpyrrole Systems: Uncovering the Effects of Catalyst Microenvironment on Small Molecule Activation

• Dr. Andrew Vreugdenhil, Chemistry: Developing Sustainable Systems for Adsorption, Isolation and Destruction of PFAS

• Dr. Autumn Watkinson, Trent School of the Environment: Ecological Theory for Predictable Restoration: Stress, Facilitation, and Coexistence in Plant Communities

• Dr. Marguerite Xenopoulos, Biology: Patterns and Drivers of Ecosystem Metabolism in Freshwater Ecosystems

• Dr. Janet Yee, Biology: Gene Expression in Giardia lamblia

NSERC Research Tools and Instruments (RTI) Grants Program
Total awarded: $274,352 

• Dr. Huy Dang, Trent School of the Environment: On-site High-Resolution Greenhouse Gas Emissions Monitoring Station for Environmental and Climate Research

• Dr. Cheryl McKenna Neuman, Trent School of the Environment: Malvern Laser Particle Size Analyzer (LPSA) for Materials Characterization

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Why Peterborough Smells Like Smoke Outside

By Scott Arnold

Smoke from forest fires in northern Ontario is affecting air quality in Peterborough, prompting a reminder from the City of Peterborough about when to call 911.

Smoke from forest fires in northern Ontario created hazy skies over Peterborough. (photo by SCott Arnold)

If you've noticed the smell of smoke in Peterborough, you're not alone.

The City of Peterborough says smoke from forest fires in northern Ontario is affecting local air quality, and Peterborough Fire Services has been receiving calls from concerned residents.

Fire officials are reminding residents to call 911 only if they see a fire. People are asked not to call 911 or Peterborough Fire Services about the smell of smoke alone so emergency phone lines remain available for urgent situations.

Hazy conditions settled over Peterborough as wildfire smoke moved into the area (photo by scott arnold)

The smoky skyline over Peterborough as wildfire smoke moved into the region (photo by Scott Arnold)

Wildfire smoke created hazy conditions throughout Peterborough (photo by Scott Arnold)

A smoky haze hung over Peterborough Tuesday due to forest fires burning in northern Ontario (photo by scott arnold)

Wildfire smoke could be seen across Peterborough on Tuesday (photo by scott arnold)

Smoke from forest fires in northern Ontario created a noticeable haze over the city (photo by scott arnold)

Smoky skies over Peterborough as forest fires in northern Ontario continued to impact the region (photo by scott arnold)

Wildfire smoke continued to affect Peterborough, creating hazy skies across the city (photo by scott arnold)

A hazy sun shines through smoke from forest fires in northern Ontario affecting air quality in Peterborough (photo by SCott Arnold)

Environment Canada has also posted advice about outdoor activity during the smoky conditions caused by the northern Ontario wildfires.

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

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Selwyn Township Urging Caution with Outdoor Burning During Extreme Heat

By Scott Arnold

With extreme heat in the forecast, Selwyn Township is encouraging residents to avoid non-essential outdoor burning to help reduce the risk of fires and protect emergency responders.

With extreme heat in the forecast this week, selwyn township is asking residents to consider postponing any non-essential outdoor burning.

Selwyn Township is asking residents to postpone unnecessary outdoor burning during the hot weather, noting that dry conditions can allow fires to spread quickly if they get out of control.

The reminder also highlights several of the township's fire safety regulations.

Open-air burning, including campfires and outdoor fireplaces, is not permitted in the built-up areas of Lakefield, Bridgenorth, Ennismore, Young's Point and Woodland Acres.

Burn permits are required for any fire that is not a campfire or outdoor fireplace, while burn barrels are not permitted anywhere in the township. The burning of leaves, grass clippings, compost and other noxious materials is also prohibited.

Residents are also reminded to maintain a minimum 10-metre fire-safe distance around burn areas, properly dispose of smoking materials and use extra caution when operating outdoor machinery during periods of extreme heat.

The Township also reminds residents never to leave a fire unattended and to ensure it is completely extinguished before leaving the area.

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

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Second Wave of Artists Announced For Peterborough Folk Festival 2026

The 37th annual Peterborough Folk Festival has announced its second wave of artists performing for this year’s event, from Aug. 13 to 16 at Nicholls Oval Park.

facebook @melissa.a.payne

The following are the featured artists:

Kazdoura: meaning “to stroll” in Levantine Arabic— Kazdoura embodies the spirit of exploration, nostalgia, and groove. Founded in Toronto by Syrian vocalist Leen Hamo and Lebanese multi-instrumentalist John Abou Chacra, the JUNO Award-winning duo bridges modern and traditional Arabic music with psychedelia, funk, and soul. Their sound radiates a vintage psych-soul atmosphere.

Shad: Shad (Shadrach Kabango) is a Canadian recording artist of Rwandan descent, raised in London Ontario, known for blending humour and weighty themes, inspiring positivity while exploring a range of sounds. Shad won the Juno Award for Rap Recording Of The Year in 2011 and five of his albums have been shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize for Canadian Album Of The Year, the most shortlist nominations of any artist in the prize’s history.

The Friendly Frog Freak Show: Amphibian progressive funk energetically charged and ready to fire you up into a vortex of infinite sounds and colours backed by an eclectic rhythm section offering dancey shivers and auspicious ambiances to make you bring out your inner frog.

Tennyson King: Tennyson King 百城 is an award-winning, nomadic folk musician whose life and music stretch between Hong Kong and Canada. Performing in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, Tennyson builds his sound around rhythmic guitar, kick drum, and traditional instruments like the zhongruan. He has performed around the world, including an appearance at Glastonbury Festival, and earned a nomination for Performing Artist of the Year at the Ontario Folk Music Awards.

Georgia Harmer: Known for her ethereal voice and sincere lyricism, Georgia Harmer has emerged as one of the most compelling voices in Canada's indie music scene. Her songs move fluidly across a wide emotional range—shifting from soaring, cathartic anthems to hushed, intimate reflections with ease. She has toured extensively across North America and the UK, performing at major festivals such as SXSW, The Great Escape, and Focus Wales, and supporting artists including City & Colour, Lake Street Dive, Bahamas, and Broken Social Scene.

Lauren Dillen: While Dillen’s soothing voice and deft musicianship can be heard through her work with folk-rock quartet Burs, her solo project is all about self-work and following her instincts. Her songs are reminiscent of Joni Mitchell, Laura Marling, and Andy Shauf, with soundscapes informed by ambient musicians like Emily A. Sprague.

Burs: Burs (the small things that stick with you) comprises Lauren Dillen, Ray Goudy, Devon Savas and Aidan McConnell. Hailed as "a rich and often ethereal collection of songs able to change with fluid ease" [The Revue], Burs debut album Holding Patterns was released in September of 2022.

Cale Crowe: Born and raised on Alderville First Nation territory, Cale Crowe was fueled by music from the time he had a heartbeat. That love of music and sense of “life soundtrack” would lead him to picking up his father’s guitar for the first time at age 12 and performing live for his first audience at 14. His blend of campfire-style folk and modern pop/rock reflects and builds upon the taste he developed all those years ago.

Ollie Mae: Ollie Mae is a 17-year-old singer-songwriter who channels the classic sound of folk, CanRock, and country roots through her music. Since age 16, Ollie Mae has worked as a recording and mixing engineer at Treblecock Studio, located in Peterborough. She’s been diligently working on her self-produced first album throughout the year, and is elated at the opportunity to play at the 2026 Peterborough Folk Festival!

The Kents: They’re back! The Kents formed in 2011 in Peterborough’s neighbour, Lindsay, Ontario. Composed of homegrown talents Warren Frank, Freddy Kwon, Tanner Paré, Luke Shauf, and 2022 Folk Fest Emerging Artist Nathan Truax, The Kents offer a unique indie-pop sound that is reminiscent of Foster the People, Young the Giant, and The Arkells. The Kents have appeared on many big stages, including Canadian Music Week in 2018.

The Weber Brothers: Between their renowned musical ability, high-energy, awe-inspiring performances and lessons learned first hand from rock n’ roll pioneers, The Weber Brothers have developed a reputation as the “Baddest Band in the Land”.

Melissa Payne: Hailing from Ennismore, Ontario, Melissa Payne has made a lasting impact on the music scene, and her journey has only just begun. Originally rooted in old-time fiddle and traditional Celtic music, Melissa has now blossomed into a successful solo artist with three full-length albums under her belt. Melissa's live performances have garnered critical acclaim, and she has had the privilege of collaborating with some of Canada's biggest names in music. Notable guest collaborators include Blue Rodeo's Greg Keelor, James McKenty, Matt Mays, Natalie MacMaster, cellist Nathaniel Smith, and Jimmy Bowskill, showcasing her ability to work with renowned artists.

The festival also features a Children’s Village, which will offer free daily programming from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. including crafts, workshops, story time, face painting and a daily children’s parade.

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Habitat Breaks Ground on Three New Homes in Norwood

By Scott Arnold

Three local families are one step closer to homeownership after Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region officially broke ground on a new affordable housing project in Norwood.

Three local families are one step closer to affordable homeownership after Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) broke ground today on three new single-family homes in Norwood (photo courtesy of habitat pkr)

Construction is now underway on three single-family, three-bedroom homes that will be sold through Habitat's affordable homeownership program. The model allows qualifying families to purchase a home with no down payment and a geared-to-income mortgage, helping make homeownership more accessible.

The energy-efficient homes will also include universal design features and are expected to be ready for their new owners during the winter of 2026-27.

The project was made possible through financing from Peterborough County's Open Door initiative, which supports the creation of affordable homeownership opportunities across the county.

Community members, local officials, volunteers, donors and trade partners gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction. A special display featuring an architectural rendering coloured by eight-year-old future homeowner Nora, along with a drawing of her family, offered a glimpse of the lives the homes will soon help change.

Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region CEO Susan Zambonin says affordable homeownership provides more than just a place to live, giving families greater stability and the opportunity to build for the future.

“A healthy community isn't defined only by who moves in. It's also defined by who has the opportunity to stay” said Zambonin. She added “These homes are about more than putting up walls, they're about creating stability, opportunity, and ensuring young families can continue living, working, and investing in communities like Norwood.”

The organization also recognized the many community partners who helped make the project possible, including Crowley Farms for donating the land, Peterborough County, and several local businesses and trades that are contributing to the build.

The three-home development is expected to welcome its new families by the winter of 2026-27.

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

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Peterborough Man Issued Several Tickets For Stunt Driving After Going 100 Km/H In 50 Zone

A 21-year-old Peterborough man is facing several driving charges, including stunt driving and careless driving, after going 50 km/h over the speed limit after a stop on Lansdowne Street on Monday morning.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 9 a.m., an officer on general patrol was conducting speed enforcement near Lansdowne Street and Ashburnham Drive. The officer recorded a vehicle going 100 km/hr in a 50 km/hr zone. The officer activated his emergency lights and conducted a traffic stop.

The man was issued tickets for:

• Careless driving

• Stunt driving

• Speeding 50+km/hr over posted limit  

The driver was also given a 30-day license suspension and a 14-day vehicle impoundment.

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Peterborough Petes Forward Named to USA Hockey's 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Selection Camp roster

Peterborough Petes forward Gerry DiCunzolo has been named to USA Hockey's 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Selection Camp roster.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

The Selection Camp runs from July 23 to 27 at the TRIA Rink in Saint Paul, Minn. Those chosen from the Hlinka Camp will play for the 2026 U.S. Under-18 Men's Select Team during the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup from Aug. 3 to 8 in Edmonton.

The 17-year-old DiCunzolo has appeared in 39 games with the Petes, with five goals and four assists for nine points.

The Buffalo native was chosen by Peterborough in the third round (61st overall) of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection from Shattuck-St. Mary's School. He stood out with the United States during last summer's U17 Four Nations Tournament, earning eight points in four games.

He joins Mason Courville (Flint Firebirds), Sawyer Schmidt (Saginaw Spirit) and Nolan Snyder (Kingston Frontenacs) as the only four invitees from the Ontario Hockey League.

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KitCoffee in Downtown Peterborough Temporarily Closed After Front Door Damaged

By Scott Arnold

Downtown Peterborough café KitCoffee will be closed on Tuesday after an incident involving damage to its storefront left the business dealing with repairs and an unexpected disruption.

kitcoffee in downtown peterborough will be closed on tuesday, july 14, after damage occured to their front door (photo by scott arnold)

In a post shared on social media, owner Helen McCarthy said the café had been broken into, sharing a photo showing damage to the front door glass.

McCarthy said the person involved did not manage to steal anything, and there was no damage inside the shop. While the business avoided losing cash or dealing with significant interior damage, McCarthy said the incident was still emotionally exhausting and resulted in a lost day of sales.

“Welp. We will be closed today. We had a break in,” McCarthy wrote in the post.

McCarthy added that the repairs should be covered through the DBIA repairs grant, but said the situation was still difficult for the business.

“This is mostly emotionally exhausting, we lose a day of sales. But we should be able to get the repairs covered thanks to the DBIA repairs grant,” she wrote.

a popular spot in downtown peterborough since 2019, kit coffee, had to close on tuesday because of smashed glass on their front door. the café says luckily nothing was reported stolen and there was no damage inside. (photo by scott arnold)

KitCoffee has been serving customers at its downtown location at 144 Hunter Street West since opening its storefront in 2019 after first operating through the Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market.

McCarthy thanked customers for their support, saying the response from the community helped the business through the situation.

The café shared that if the door could be repaired Tuesday, it expected to reopen Wednesday.

The café thanked customers for their support and said it planned to continue moving forward following the attempted break-in.

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

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Paris Marine, Eastside Boxing & Wellness and Heads Up For Inclusion

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…

Paris Marine is celebrating the huge milestone of 80 years in business!

For three generations, the Paris family has built a lasting legacy of exceptional service, community leadership, and helping families make memories on the water. Congratulations to Deborah Paris, Bill Paris, and the entire Paris Marine team on this remarkable achievement! To learn more about Paris marine, you can visit their showroom at 2980 Lakefield Road in Lakefield, or go to their website: parismarine.com

Eastside Boxing & Wellness is hosting an official Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, July 22 at 11 a.m. at 311 George Street North.

Community members are invited to join the celebration and see what's next for this growing local business. For more information and to register you can visit eastsideboxingandwellness.ca or follow them on Instagram, @eastsideboxingandwellness

Heads Up for Inclusion is hosting its free Walk & Roll event on Tuesday, July 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Del Crary Park.

The event celebrates inclusion and meaningful friendships. Drop in to enjoy a variety of inclusive activities, plus a barbecue hosted by the East Peterborough Lions Club. Everyone is welcome to come out, get moving, and celebrate community together. To learn more please email lyle_saunders@headsupforinclusion.ca

Don't forget, the deadline to nominate outstanding local businesses for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards is this Friday, July 17!

With award categories recognizing everything from Indigenous-led businesses to exceptional commercial renovations and community leadership. There are many opportunities to celebrate businesses making a difference across our region. Submit your nominations today by going to pkcc.awardify.io

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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