Reflecting On the 22nd Anniversary of the Peterborough Flood

It has been 22 years since the Peterborough Flood, when up to 220 mm of rainfall over a nine-hour period covered the City streets and unfortunately, entered the homes and businesses of several residents.

Sylvia Sutherland, Former Peterborough Mayor (left) with Jeff Leal, current Peterborough Mayor (right). Sutherland was the mayor during the flood while Leal was serving as the MPP.

There were 10 billion litres of rain which is equal to 9,615 filled Lift Locks and the same as two-and-a-half days of flow on the Otonabee River. The rain overwhelmed the city's drainage system.

A State of Emergency was declared by Mayor Sutherland and the disaster garnered national attention.

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Community Builder Tiffany Arcari Named Chair For United Way's 85th Community Campaign

The role of United Way Peterborough & District’s Chair of the Community Campaign Cabinet for 2026 became even more fabulous and vibrant with the appointment of Tiffany Arcari, announced on Wednesday.

Tiffany Arcari (middle), making her grand entrance after being named the new Community Campaign Chair for 2026. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A longtime Peterborough resident since 2004 and a community builder, Arcari is known as an emcee for multiple community events and for shining the spotlight on the city’s notable residents through her social media platforms and talk show, The Tiffany Show.

She joked and thought United Way was kidding when the idea was first introduced to her as chairing this year’s campaign but immediately agreed to lead the non-profit organization.

“But then immediately, honestly… Honoured and excited because I know the United Way has been in our community making changes for so many years,” she explained. “I knew that I wanted to step in, I wanted to help and it honestly fuelled that fire in my belly that always gets me to take action and do something. I understand the United Way and their work actually changes and improves things for the community.”

Arcari first became involved with United Way as a judge for the Ultimate Burger Battle, a fundraising event introduced last fall. She also hosted a donation drive for United Way's Period Promise initiative at her International Women's Day event, collecting nearly 10,000 items and contributing them.

She currently serves as the Community Manager at Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory, where she leads community initiatives and manages entrepreneurs within the firm. Arcari founded the annual ‘The Tiffany Show’s International Women’s Day Party,’ which celebrates and supports women in the community. Last year, she was recognized with the Luminary Award for Emerging Entrepreneur.

As Chair, Arcari’s duties include leading a team of over 20 volunteers to orchestrate fundraising efforts, strengthen donor engagement and host inclusive community events during United Way’s 85th campaign.

“The reason I believe so fiercely in this campaign is because... People matter,” she said. “Behind every statistic is a neighbour, a family, a story. For 85 years, United Way has brought our community together to make sure people don't have to face challenges alone and I am honoured to help carry that mission forward as Chair this year.”

@ptbo_canada The role of United Way Peterborough & District Chair of the Community Campaign Cabinet for 2026 became even more fabulous and vibrant with the appointment of Tiffany Arcari. #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #unitedway ♬ bounce (i just wanna dance) - фрози & joyful

Arcari resided in Hamilton before moving to Bancroft, then eventually Peterborough, in her mid-to-late teenage years in the mid-2000s. She sought help from the United Way when she moved to Peterborough and giving back as Chair comes full circle for her.

“It's so remarkably important to me,” said Arcari. “Reciprocity breeds reciprocity and kindness breeds kindness and vulnerability fosters connection. I know these things to be true from when I was a little girl.”

Arcari succeeds journalist Paul Relliger, who held the role last year.

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Woodward to Close Peterborough Facility Next Year, Affecting 165 Jobs

By Scott Arnold

A Peterborough aerospace manufacturing facility is set to close next year, with approximately 165 employees expected to be affected.

Woodward Canada Inc.’s Peterborough facility on Fisher Drive will close in 2027, affecting approximately 165 employees (photo by scott arnold)

Woodward Canada Inc. will close its Peterborough facility on Fisher Drive, with operations scheduled to end on Aug. 31, 2027.

Production from the Peterborough facility will be relocated to Poland as part of the closure.

The facility manufactures specialized electromechanical systems used in the aviation industry.

Woodward acquired the Peterborough operation from Safran in July 2025.

Woodward’s Peterborough operation, which manufactures specialized electromechanical systems for the aviation industry, will have production relocated to Poland as part of the closure (photo by scott arnold)

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

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Heat and Air Quality Warnings Continue Across Region

By Scott Arnold

Lakelands Public Health is urging residents to take extra precautions as heat and poor air quality continue to affect Haliburton, Kawartha, Peterborough and Northumberland.

Lakelands Public Health is urging residents of Haliburton, Kawartha, Peterborough and Northumberland to take precautions to protect against heat and air quality-related illnesses (photo by scott arnold)

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued both a Heat Warning and an Air Quality Warning for the region, with health officials reminding residents that the combination of extreme heat and smoky air can increase the risk of illness.

Most of the region is under a Yellow Air Quality Warning, while Cobourg, Colborne and western Northumberland County are under an Orange Air Quality Warning. The Air Quality Health Index is expected to range from 6 (moderate risk) to 10+ (very high risk) over the next 24 hours.

The entire region also remains under a Yellow Heat Warning, which was first issued on Monday.

Lakelands Public Health says everyone can be affected by the heat and poor air quality, but the risks are greater for older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, those with heart or lung conditions, people who work or exercise outdoors, and those without access to cool indoor spaces. Residents are also encouraged to check in on family members, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.

With both warnings in effect, Lakelands Public Health says residents should prioritize staying cool while also limiting their exposure to poor air quality. Keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible, using an air purifier or high-quality furnace filter if available, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, and checking the Air Quality Health Index before spending time outside can all help reduce exposure. If wildfire smoke is present, wearing a well-fitting respirator such as an N95 mask can also help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles.

Common symptoms of poor air quality include watery or sore eyes, a runny nose, throat irritation, coughing and headaches. More serious symptoms, such as wheezing, chest pain or severe coughing, require immediate medical attention. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should call 911.

The prolonged heat also increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include weakness, dizziness, fainting, nausea, headache, extreme thirst and reduced urination with dark yellow urine. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cool place and drink water.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs include a body temperature above 39 C, hot, red skin, confusion, difficulty speaking, severe nausea or vomiting, rapid breathing or fainting. Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should call 911 immediately.

To reduce the risk of heat-related illness, residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, avoid the hottest part of the day, limit strenuous outdoor activity and keep their homes as cool as possible by closing blinds and curtains and limiting the use of heat-producing appliances. People should also never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle.

Residents looking to cool off can visit air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries, shopping malls or designated municipal cooling centres, or spend time at local beaches or splash pads where available.

Daytime temperatures could reach 37 C, with humidex values climbing into the mid-40s. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain above 20 C, offering little relief from the heat. The current heat event is expected to end Thursday.

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

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Peterborough Man Arrested For Pulling a Knife On An Employee

A 53-year-old Peterborough man has been arrested on multiple charges after allegedly drawing a knife on a store employee on Tuesday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At approximately 8 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the area of Lansdowne Street and Webber Ave for a man who had pulled a knife on an employee. The suspect was gone from the area when officers arrived. A description of the suspect was given to police and it was aired for observation.

Officers located the suspect a while later in the area of Haggart Street and Ware Street.

The man was charged with:

• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

• Uttering threats

• Theft under $5,000

• Mischief under $5,000

The accused was released on an undertaking and scheduled to attend court on Sept. 28.

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Dunsford Golfers Raise More Than $3K for Ross Memorial Hospital

By Scott Arnold

A charity golf tournament hosted by the Dunsford Golf & Country Club Ladies League has raised $3,247 in support of critical capital projects at Ross Memorial Hospital.

Since 2015, the Dunsford Ladies League has supported needs across the hospital, including the expansion of the Emergency Department and creation of a Mental Health Emergency Services Unit, the new fleet of IV pumps, the Mental Health Inpatient Unit and the 3D mammography unit (photo via ross memorial hospital foundation)

The league's annual tournament was held June 23, with members of the "Girls on the Green" embracing the event's green-themed tradition while raising money for local health care.

Organizer Shirley Grills recently visited Ross Memorial Hospital to present the donation.

The latest contribution brings the Ladies League's total support for the Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation to $11,800, earning the group Provider-level recognition on the Foundation's Donor Recognition Wall.

Since 2015, the Dunsford Ladies League has supported a number of projects at the hospital, including the expansion of the Emergency Department, the creation of the Mental Health Emergency Services Unit, a new fleet of IV pumps, the Mental Health Inpatient Unit and the hospital's 3D mammography unit.

The fundraiser is the latest example of the group's ongoing commitment to supporting local health care and helping fund important equipment and improvements that benefit patients across the region.

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

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New Fire Chief Named as Selwyn Fire Department Prepares for Leadership Change

By Scott Arnold

The Township of Selwyn has announced the retirement of longtime Fire Chief Gord Jopling and the appointment of Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson as the department's next Fire Chief.

The Township of Selwyn has announced that Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson will become the next Fire Chief of the selwyn fire department, taking over from gord jopling who will retire at the end of next month (photo courtesy of the township of selwyn)

After 38 years of service with the Selwyn Fire Department, Jopling will retire effective Aug. 31, 2026.

Jopling began his career as a volunteer firefighter, serving the community for 10 years before being appointed Fire Chief in May 1998. During his time leading the department, he oversaw emergency response, fire prevention and public education while helping build a strong culture of teamwork, professionalism and community service. He also played a key role in mentoring future firefighters throughout his career.

retiring fire chief gord jopling started his career with the selwyn fire department in 1998 (photo provided by the township of selwyn)

Following a recruitment process, the Township has appointed Deputy Fire Chief Howard Jinkerson as Fire Chief, effective Aug. 4, 2026.

Jinkerson brings more than 22 years of fire service experience to the role, along with extensive knowledge of fire operations, emergency management and fire prevention. He has also helped lead several department initiatives, including equipment purchases, firefighter training, regulatory compliance and certification.

To help ensure a smooth transition, Jopling and Jinkerson will work together before Jopling's retirement, providing continuity for firefighters, Township staff and the community.

"Although I have only had the opportunity to work alongside Chief Jopling for a short time, it is clear why he is so highly respected throughout the organization and the community. His dedication to public safety, commitment to the department, and leadership over many years have created a strong legacy for the Selwyn Fire Department," said Chief Administrative Officer Jennifer Moore. "I would like to thank Gord for his outstanding service to the Township and wish him all the best in retirement. I am confident that Deputy Chief Jinkerson's experience, leadership, and commitment to the community will ensure a smooth transition and continued excellence in fire services for Selwyn Township."

"I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve as Fire Chief for the Township of Selwyn. I would like to thank Fire Chief Gord Jopling for his years of dedication to the department and the community, and I appreciate the confidence placed in me by the Township," said Jinkerson. "I am excited to continue working alongside such an amazing group of firefighters and supporting the important work they do every day."

The Township thanked Jopling for his decades of dedicated service and leadership and wished him all the best in retirement while congratulating Jinkerson on his appointment as the Selwyn Fire Department prepares for its next chapter.

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

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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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