Saturday's Lock & Paddle Event Cancelled Due to Air Quality Concerns

Parks Canada has cancelled Lock & Paddle, which was scheduled for Saturday at the Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site, due to air quality concerns.

Photo courtesy of Parks Canada.

According to Parks Canada, their decision was made out of an abundance of caution due to forecasted weather conditions and concerns about air quality, with the health and safety of participants, volunteers and staff remaining our highest priority.

As this event depends on the availability of the Peterborough Lift Lock and on operational requirements during the navigation season, Lock & Paddle will not be rescheduled this year.

Parks Canada released the following statement:

“We recognize that many paddlers and community members were looking forward to this unique event, and we appreciate your understanding.

Thank you to everyone who planned to join us, as well as our event partners and volunteers, for their continued support.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Peterborough Lift Lock for future events and opportunities to experience this remarkable National Historic Site.”

In addition to Lock & Paddle, the Beavermead Beach Party, which runs alongside the event, has also been cancelled.

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Ontario Government Gives Peterborough Over $1.6 Million Through the Building Faster Fund After Reaching Housing Targets

The Ontario Government has rewarded the City of Peterborough with $1,653,397, which provides funding to municipalities that achieve at least 80 per cent of their provincially designated housing targets, announced at City Hall on Wednesday.

City Staff and local politicans with Rob Flack (middle) recieving the $1.6 million for reaching 80 per cent of Peterborough’s housing targets. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding came through the third round of the Building Faster Fund.

Last year, Peterborough broke ground on 545 new homes, exceeding its annual target by 16 per cent. The funding will help the City of Peterborough build more homes and community infrastructure while advancing the province’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in projects that support economic growth and keep workers on the job according to Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Our government is relentlessly focused on creating the conditions municipalities need to meet the growing demand for more homes,” he said. “That is why we have introduced bold legislative changes and introduced measures such as the Development Charge Reduction Program. We appreciate partners like Peterborough who are committed to working alongside us.”

Announced in August 2023, the Building Faster Fund is a three-year, up to $1.2 billion program that helps municipalities build more homes faster. The fund rewards municipalities that make significant progress toward their housing targets by providing funding for the infrastructure needed to support new housing and growing communities.

“The City of Peterborough is taking action to support housing construction by reducing development charges and streamlining our development approvals process through the implementation of a Community Planning Permit System,” said Jeff Leal, Mayor of Peterborough. Together, we're creating the conditions for builders to create homes and jobs in our community.”

Flack added that the Ontario Government is also helping to speed up the construction of new homes and infrastructure by streamlining development processes and reducing unnecessary costs, most recently through the Building Homes and Improving Transportation Infrastructure Act, 2026 and the HST Relief Implementation Act (Residential Property Rebates), 2026.

As part of the up to $8.8 billion Canada-Ontario Partnership to Build, Ontario has introduced the Development Charge Reduction Program, which will provide funding for housing-enabling infrastructure projects over a 10-year period. Funding will be prioritized for municipalities that reduce and maintain reductions on development charges.

The agreement also supports removing HST on new homes from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, which will save homebuyers up to $130,000 on the cost of a new home. Collectively, these measures help to enhance affordability, support builders as they get shovels in the ground on new homes and keep workers on the job.

“We know that increasing the housing supply is the best way to make life more affordable for seniors and young families in Peterborough,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Exceeding our provincial targets means our community has earned a $1.65 million reward. This funding goes straight into building the foundation—the pipes, roads, and local services—needed to keep our building momentum going.”

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Peterborough Regional Health Centre Ranked Among Top 10 Hospitals For Workplace Culture In Canada

The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) has been named one of the top 10 hospital employers in Canada for Best Company Culture by Forbes, as announced on Wednesday.

PRHC employs over 3,100 staff and 250 volunteers. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“It’s an absolute privilege to be part of an organization that fully commits itself to providing a workplace where people can thrive the way PRHC has done,” said Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC President & CEO. “Our people are vital to the work we do every day, and every day we strive to provide meaningful opportunities, care and support for this amazing team so they can be there for you when you need them most.

PRHC ranks eighth among hospital employers nationwide and 63rd overall among 200 Canadian employers across all sectors.

“It is a great honour to have PRHC recognized once again among the top hospital employers in the country and I have every confidence that this organization will only continue to get better in the years to come,'“ said Mikula.

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Peterborough Man Arrested After Allegedly Assaulting A Woman and Damaging Her Phone

A 24-year-old Peterborough man has been arrested on multiple domestic and weapon-related charges, leaving a woman injured after an incident on Wednesday night.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 8 p.m., 911 dispatch received a call from a female screaming and the call disconnected. Officers were dispatched to the area of Lansdowne Street and Applewood Crescent and located a female with injuries on arrival. They learned that the victim had been assaulted and her phone damaged. The victim was transported by ambulance to Peterborough Region Health Centre for treatment.

The man was arrested and charged with:

• Assault with a weapon – spousal

• Assault – spousal

• Assault cause bodily harm

• Mischief

During the arrest, the accused threatened officers and was further charged with:

• Uttering threats – cause death or bodily harm

The accused has been held in custody and appeared in court on Thursday.

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Firefighters Raise $2,000 for Ross Memorial Hospital

By Scott Arnold

Members of the Kawartha Lakes Professional Firefighters Association Local 1701 are giving back to their community after raising $2,000 for Ross Memorial Hospital through their annual Boot Drive.

Members of the Kawartha Lakes Professional Firefighters Association Local 1701, Jeremy Thomas, Kevin Ryan, James Palmer, Brady Liscombe, and Ryan Herlihey (photo courtesy of the RMH Foundation)

The donation was presented to the Ross Memorial Hospital (RMH) Foundation following the firefighters’ Easter weekend fundraiser, which saw members collect donations from the community outside Canadian Tire and Food Basics in Lindsay on April 4.

A total of 15 firefighters took part in the Boot Drive, helping raise funds in support of local organizations, including Ross Memorial Hospital.

Members of the association visited the hospital to present the donation to RMH Foundation Finance Manager James Palmer.

“The members of Kawartha Lakes Professional Firefighters Association are proud to support Ross Memorial Hospital with this donation, recognizing the vital role community contributions play in funding life-saving equipment and enhancing patient care,” said Ryan Herlihey, treasurer of Kawartha Lakes Professional Firefighters Association Local 1701.

Herlihey said firefighters see firsthand the importance of having the right resources available when responding to medical emergencies, and the donation is one way members can support the community they serve.

Funds donated to the RMH Foundation’s WE ARE THE ROSS capital campaign help support priority hospital projects, including Emergency Department and ICU expansion, advanced diagnostic technology and life-saving bedside equipment.

The RMH Foundation thanked the firefighters and everyone who supported the Boot Drive for helping strengthen healthcare in Kawartha Lakes.

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

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Selwyn Township Issues Total Burn Ban Due to Wildfire Smoke

By Scott Arnold

Selwyn Township has issued a total burn ban effective immediately as smoke from Northern Ontario wildfires continues to create hazardous air quality conditions in the community.

Effective immediately, the Selwyn Township Fire Department has issued a Total Burn Ban until further notice due to hazardous air quality cause by smoke from the wildfires in Northern Ontario.

The decision comes two days after the Township urged residents to postpone non-essential outdoor burning during extreme heat conditions. With the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) reaching 10, considered a very high risk level, the Selwyn Township Fire Department has prohibited all burning to help protect public health, reduce additional smoke in the community and minimize the risk of fire.

All existing burn permits are now void, and all open-air burning is prohibited, including:

• Yard waste and brush burning

• Campfires and bonfires

• Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and chimineas

• Agricultural burns

• Fireworks

The Township is also reminding residents to take precautions while wildfire smoke continues to affect air quality.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Keep themselves, family members and pets indoors as much as possible, with windows and doors closed

• Limit time outdoors and reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events

• Check on family members, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to poor air quality

The burn ban will remain in effect until air quality and fire conditions improve. Officials will continue monitoring conditions daily and provide updates through the Township’s website and official social media channels.

Selwyn Township is thanking residents for their cooperation and asking everyone to help spread the word. By respecting the burn ban and taking precautions during periods of hazardous air quality, residents can help protect the health and safety of the community.

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

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Former Pete Ryan Ramsay Named Cobourg Cougars President and General Manager

By Scott Arnold

Former Peterborough Petes forward Ryan Ramsay is taking on a new leadership role after being named President and General Manager of the Cobourg Cougars.

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)

The Cobourg Cougars announced Ramsay's appointment this week as the team continues preparations for its first season following the relocation of the Haliburton County Huskies franchise to Cobourg.

Ramsay brings plenty of junior hockey experience to the role. He spent the past seven seasons as General Manager and Head Coach of the Haliburton County Huskies and the Whitby Fury. During his time with the Huskies, the club reached the playoffs every season.

Before moving into coaching and management, Ramsay enjoyed a lengthy playing career. After signing with the St. Louis Blues as an undrafted free agent in 2004, he went on to play in the American Hockey League, ECHL and spent seven seasons in Germany's top professional league, the DEL.

Peterborough hockey fans will also remember Ramsay from his time with the Petes. He played 99 games for the maroon and white between 1999 and 2001, recording 24 goals and 23 assists for 47 points. More recently, he returned to the organization as a Development Coach during the 2025-26 season.

The announcement comes as the new-look Cobourg Cougars prepare for their inaugural season after the OJHL approved the relocation of the Haliburton County Huskies franchise to Cobourg. As part of the move, the incoming ownership group assumed the historic Cobourg Cougars name and identity while taking over operations at the Cobourg Community Centre.

Ramsay will now lead the Cougars into the next chapter of the franchise as it begins its first season under the familiar Cobourg name.

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

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Jr. C Lakers Take Series Lead After Wild Game 3 Win

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. C Lakers are one win away from advancing after outlasting the Whitby Warriors 11-10 in a back-and-forth Game 3 on Wednesday night at Healthy Planet Arena.

the peterborough jr c lakers beat whitby on wednesday to take a 2-1 lead in their best-of-five playoff series. game 4 will take place tomorrow at 8pm (Friday, july 17) at the Mckinney centre in whitby (photo courtesy of the peterborough jr. c lakers, via christine liu)

The win gives Peterborough a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five Central Division Final.

The teams traded goals throughout the night, with Whitby holding a 3-2 lead after the first period before the Lakers responded with five goals in the second to take a 7-6 advantage into the third. After the Warriors scored three straight late in the final period to pull ahead 10-9, Peterborough answered with two goals in 41 seconds. Braxtin Howard scored the game winner shorthanded with 4:27 remaining to put the Lakers back in front for good.

Game 4 is set for Friday at 8 pm at the McKinney Centre in Whitby. If necessary, Game 5 will be played Sunday at 2 pm at Healthy Planet Arena.

Ryder Perry led the Lakers with three goals and two assists, while Braxtin Howard scored twice, including the game winner.

Ryder Evans added a hat trick, while Kennen Withers, Quinn Jacobs and Jared Martinell also scored.

Charlie Evans recorded two assists, while Withers and Jacobs each finished with an assist. Bobby Crowe also picked up an assist.

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

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Orange Air Quality Warning Remains in Effect for Peterborough and Surrounding Area

By Scott Arnold

An Orange Air Quality Warning remains in effect for Peterborough as smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario continues to create very poor air quality and reduced visibility.

An Orange Air Quality Warning remains in effect for Peterborough due to wildfire smoke (photo by scott arnold)

The warning, issued by Environment Canada Thursday morning, covers Peterborough City, Lakefield and southern Peterborough County. Forecasters say air quality could improve later Thursday in some areas, but conditions may deteriorate again late Friday or Saturday.

Environment Canada says heavy wildfire smoke can affect everyone's health, regardless of age or existing health conditions. Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors and consider rescheduling or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events while the warning remains in effect.

Exposure to wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and a mild cough. More serious symptoms, including wheezing, chest pain or a severe cough, require immediate medical attention.

People at greater risk, including older adults, pregnant people, infants and young children, those with chronic health conditions and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous outdoor activity and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms.

Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to reduce smoke indoors. However, if indoor temperatures become dangerously hot, staying cool should take priority.

Anyone who must spend time outside should limit their exposure as much as possible. A properly fitted respirator, such as a NIOSH-certified N95 mask or equivalent, can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles, though it does not eliminate all health risks.

Smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario continues to affect air quality across the region. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Very poor air quality and reduced visibility are expected while the warning remains in effect. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Environment Canada says heavy wildfire smoke can affect everyone's health. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors during periods of heavy smoke. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Outdoor sports, activities and events may need to be postponed or rescheduled while air quality remains poor. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and a mild cough. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Older adults, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions are at greater risk from wildfire smoke. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

People who work outdoors are encouraged to take extra precautions during poor air quality conditions. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Keeping windows and doors closed can help reduce smoke indoors when temperatures allow. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

If you must be outside, a properly fitted N95 respirator can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Residents are encouraged to check in on neighbours, family members and others who may be more vulnerable to wildfire smoke. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Environment Canada says the warning remains in effect and residents should continue monitoring the latest forecasts and alerts. (Photo by Scott Arnold)

Environment Canada also recommends checking in on family members, neighbours and others who may be more vulnerable to the effects of wildfire smoke.

The Orange Air Quality Warning remains in effect, and residents are encouraged to continue monitoring forecasts and alerts for the latest updates.

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

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Peterborough Folk Festival Set for Biggest Weekend Yet, Including Six Juno Award Winners

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough’s biggest weekend of free live music returns next month as the 37th Annual Peterborough Folk Festival brings nationally acclaimed artists, family activities and four days of entertainment to Nicholls Oval Park.

Peterborough Folk Festival is set to return to Nicholls Oval Park and downtown venues from August 13-16, with its biggest festival yet, featuring six Juno Award winners (photo courtesy of PEterborough Folk festival, via michale hurcomb)

Music lovers can once again head to Nicholls Oval Park in Peterborough's East City as the Peterborough Folk Festival returns from August 13 to 16. The free-admission festival will also feature events at downtown venues, continuing a tradition that has made it Canada's longest-running free folk festival.

This year's festival will feature six Juno Award winners and two additional Juno nominees, along with four stages, a Children's Village, an Artisan Village, local food vendors and the largest festival stage Peterborough has seen this summer.

Headliners this year include Bahamas, SHAD, Aysanabee, Begonia, Terra Lightfoot, Kazdoura, Melissa Payne and The Weber Brothers as part of one of the festival's strongest lineups to date.(photo courtesy of peterborough folf festival, via michael hurcomb)

The festival remains committed to showcasing 100 per cent original artists, giving audiences the chance to discover established performers alongside emerging Canadian talent.

Among this year's headliners are Bahamas, SHAD, Aysanabee, Begonia, Terra Lightfoot, Kazdoura, Melissa Payne and The Weber Brothers.

Several artists are coming off major success at this year's Juno Awards, including Kazdoura, Bahamas, Begonia and Aysanabee, while The Young Novelists were also Juno nominees.

The lineup also includes familiar local names such as //NEWBERRY//, Joanna Bronson, Glen Caradus and Lakefield's Hunt the Hare, along with performances by Songs of Scratch Garden, which returns after becoming a favourite with families last year.

Festivalgoers can enjoy performances across four stages, including the newly expanded Miskin Law Main Stage, which will be the largest festival stage in Peterborough this summer (photo via peterborough folk festival, via michael hurcomb)

Festivalgoers will also be able to experience interactive programming throughout the weekend. Indigenous visual artist Ash Street will create an interactive art installation, while Kelli Marshall will lead a community Round Dance and host workshops that are open to everyone.

The festival officially begins on Thursday, Aug. 13, with an all-ages concert at Market Hall featuring acclaimed songwriter Ken Yates and emerging artist Tristan Konkle.

Four Stages Across the Festival

Live performances and activities will take place across four different stages throughout the weekend.

The Miskin Law Main Stage has been expanded and will be the largest festival stage in Peterborough this summer.

The Rotary Stage, located at the Nicholls Oval Pavilion, will feature a mix of local and national performers, with food and beverages available nearby. The Rotary Club of Peterborough Kawartha will also draw the winner of its Pay It Forward Lottery from this stage.

The Generation Solar Stage will once again provide an intimate setting for singer-songwriters beneath the trees at Nicholls Oval while operating on renewable energy.

Organizers are also looking for volunteers to help during the festival, with opportunities available for all ages, including students seeking community involvement hours (photo courtesy of peterborough folk festival, via michael hurcomb)

New this year is the TD Stage, where artists will take part in collaborative performances, workshops and special programming. One featured session will see Terra Lightfoot and Melissa Payne perform and interpret each other's songs.

Plenty for Families

The popular Children's Village returns on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm, offering crafts, games, performances, workshops and hands-on activities for children.

Each day will begin with a children's parade from the Children's Village to the Main Stage, followed by Kelli Marshall's community Round Dance.

The Peterborough Folk Festival returns to Nicholls Oval Park and downtown venues from Aug. 13 to 16 for its biggest festival yet, featuring free live music across four days (photo courtesy of peterborough folk festival, via michael hurcomb)

Families can also enjoy performances by Songs of Scratch Garden and Glen Caradus, along with beadwork workshops, interactive dance sessions, story time with the Peterborough Public Library and Indigenous-inspired arts programming.

More Than Just Music

Since beginning as a community music gathering in 1989, the Peterborough Folk Festival has grown into one of Canada's best-known music festivals while continuing to focus on accessibility, inclusion and community.

There are no VIP sections, with organizers emphasizing that everyone attending is treated equally.

In addition to live music, festival visitors can explore the Artisan Village, enjoy local food vendors and take part in interactive programming throughout the weekend (photo courtesy of peterborough folk festival, via michael hurcomb)

Beyond the music, the festival continues to bring visitors to Peterborough from across Ontario and beyond, helping support local businesses while showcasing the city as a cultural destination.

Volunteers Still Needed

Organizers are still looking for volunteers to help throughout the festival weekend.

Volunteer opportunities are available for all ages, and students can earn community involvement hours while helping at one of the region's largest cultural events.

Festival Schedule Highlights

Thursday, Aug. 13

• Market Hall concert featuring Ken Yates and Tristan Konkle.

Friday, Aug. 14

• Downtown pop-up performances.

Saturday, Aug. 15

• SHAD

• Aysanabee

• Begonia

• Georgia Harmer

• Dean Johnson

• The Free Label

• Field Guide

• Slow Leaves

• Moondoggy

• The Friendly Frog Freak Show

• The Kents

• The Watched Pots

• BURS

• Songs of Scratch Garden

Sunday, Aug. 16

• Bahamas

• Terra Lightfoot

• Kazdoura

• The Weber Brothers

• The Young Novelists

• Tennyson King

• Hunt the Hare

• Joanna Bronson

• //NEWBERRY//

• Glen Caradus and the Camp Kawartha Chorus Sing Songs of Nature

Performing throughout the weekend will also be Kelly McMichael, Melissa Payne, The Pairs, The Lucky Ones, Ollie Mae, Lauren Dillen, Cale Crowe and Tristan Konkle, the festival's 2026 Emerging Artist.

More information, volunteer opportunities, Market Hall concert tickets and the full festival schedule are available through the Peterborough Folk Festival website.

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

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