Three Young Friends Come Together to Raise $500 for Cancer Care at PRHC

By Scott Arnold

Three friends have turned their summer neighbourhood visits into a generous $500 donation supporting cancer care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Ellie, Aubree and Ellis proudly presenting their $500 donation to the PRHC Foundation in support of cancer care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (photo via instagram @prhc_foundation)

Ellie, Aubree and Ellis spent part of their summer going door-to-door in their neighbourhood raising money to support cancer care.

Their efforts recently brought them to the PRHC Foundation, where the trio presented their $500 gift in support of cancer care at PRHC.

It’s a simple example of how community spirit and a little determination can make a difference for regional healthcare.

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

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Tickets on Sale Now for Game 6 Between Lakers and Chiefs on Sunday

By Scott Arnold

Tickets are now on sale for Game 6 of the MSL final, with the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers set to host the Six Nations Chiefs Sunday night at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

honorary laker Dylan hawken (right) smiles after getting the news from jake withers that tickets are now on sale for game 6 between the lakers and chiefs, set for sunday at 7pm at the peterborough memorial centre (photo courtesy of the peterborough lakers, via david pickering)

The best-of-seven series is tied 2-2 heading into Game 5 tonight in Six Nations.

So far, the home team has won all four games in the series. The Lakers opened the final with an 11-5 loss in Six Nations before winning Game 2 at the PMC 9-8. The Chiefs took Game 3 at home 12-9, while Peterborough answered with a 12-8 victory in Game 4 on Tuesday.

Game 5 goes tonight in Six Nations, with Game 6 returning to Peterborough regardless of the result.

Game 6 is set for 7pm Sunday at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Tickets are on sale now online.

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

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2-for-1 Tickets Available For Venus in Fur Opening Weekend at Peterborough Theatre Guild

By Scott Arnold

Two seats for the price of one gives theatre fans a chance to catch Venus in Fur when the production opens at the end of September.

Venus in Fur brings a provocative mix of dark comedy, psychological tension and shifting power to the stage, opening September 18th with a limited-time 2-for-1 offer for opening weekend.

The limited-time offer is available for the Friday, September 18th and Saturday, September 19th performances, with the code VENUS. The promotion runs until September 7th, 2026.

Written by David Ives, Venus in Fur follows an actress who unexpectedly arrives to audition for a director working on an adaptation of a classic novel. As the rehearsal progresses, the lines between actor and character begin to blur, with the balance of power shifting along the way.

The production combines elements of psychological thriller, dark comedy and theatrical mystery, keeping audiences guessing through its conclusion.

The opening weekend performances are:

• Friday, September 18th at 7:30pm, Opening Night

• Saturday, September 19th at 7:30pm

The full performance schedule also includes a 1:30pm matinee on Sunday, September 20th, followed by performances September 24th through 27th and October 1st through 3rd. The October 3rd performance is Closing Night.

The cast features Carissa Kaye and John Austin, with Lisa Dixon directing.

Regular ticket prices are $30 for adults, $27 for seniors and $20 for students.

For the 2-for-1 opening weekend offer, use code VENUS when purchasing tickets. The special pricing is available until September 7th.

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

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Tickets Available For Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce's 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala

Tickets are open for the 2026 Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards Gala set for Oct. 22 at 5:30 p.m. at Kawartha Downs.

For 23 years the Business Excellence Awards has annually recognized the commitment, innovation, leadership, and resilience of the local business community. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

The event celebrates outstanding businesses, entrepreneurs, leaders, and organizations that help strengthen the Peterborough and Kawarthas business community.

“Every business, whether a small family-run operation or a large organization, represents people who show up every day with determination, creativity, and a commitment to making our community stronger,” said Susan Dunkley, Chamber Board Chair. “The Business Excellence Awards give us an important opportunity to recognize that hard work, celebrate the successes that often come after years of perseverance, and honour the people behind them. When our businesses succeed, our entire community benefits—and that is something worth celebrating together.

This year’s gala-style event features a full cocktail hour with appetizers provided by Fyrestoke and a cash bar. A fully catered menu is prepared and served by Chemong Lodge.

“We are so excited to bring this fresh, elevated approach to the long-standing event, and we truly can’t wait for our local business community to get behind it, grab their tickets, and show up to celebrate in a big way,” said Brenda Whitehead, Chamber president and CEO. “It’s going to be a luxurious, high-energy night showcasing the very best of our homegrown talent, grit, and generosity. A huge thank you to the sponsors and partners who help make this signature celebration possible. There are still opportunities available to be part of this night, so if you or your organization would like to get involved, reach out today. This truly is our moment to come together, cheer on our Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce neighbours, and celebrate the businesses that make Peterborough and the Kawarthas such a vibrant place to live, work, and grow.”

Tickets are available online or by calling 705-748-9771. Tickets purchased by Sept. 18 will be entered into a draw for local merchant gifts. Tickets must be purchased by Oct. 8 in order to ensure adequate local supplies.

Event Details Include:

• What: 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala

• When: Thursday, October 22, 2026

• Where: Kawartha Downs

• Tickets: Premium table sponsorship (8 tickets +) $1,500

• Center table tickets: $125 each (tables of 8)

Wing table tickets $115 each (tables of 6)

• Cocktail Hour: Starts at 5:30 p.m.

• Awards Dinner: Starts at 6:30 p.m.

Food: Cocktail Appetizers by Fyrestoke

Fully Catered Dinner by Chemong Lodge

• Ticket Deadline: Oct. 8

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Six Future Business Leaders Graduate From Community Futures Peterborough's 2026 Summer Company Program

Six aspiring entrepreneurs have graduated from Community Futures Peterborough’s (CFP) 2026 Summer Company Program, turning their business ideas into thriving businesses.

Rutger Huntley, Peak Beach Volleyball owner, spins one on his finger while showcasing his brand after graduation. All Photos by David Tuan Bui.

“Small businesses play a vital role in keeping our local communities vibrant and growing, and seeing students step up to launch their own enterprises right here in Peterborough-Kawartha is inspiring,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “The Summer Company program equips these future leaders with practical skills, confidence, and real-world experience. I congratulate all six graduates on a successful season and look forward to seeing where their drive takes them next.”

After graduation, the students showcased their businesses before local leaders and community partners.

“Community Futures Peterborough gave me a sense of community and belonging throughout my summer. There is such a wide range of knowledge and expertise from the team; whenever I had any sort of curiosity, I always knew where to find answers,” said Rielle MacDougall, Lake Safe Swim Lessons owner. “Having a team to back you up through a solopreneurship journey made starting a business feel a lot more manageable.”

This year’s Summer Company graduate students are:

• Aiden Budd – Dock to Driveway Detailing (Peterborough)

• Zander Bromley – Clearview (Peterborough)

• Caleb Galbraith – Joy Collectibles 3D (Lakefield)

• Emma George-Peters – Kawartha Luxe Cottage Care (Peterborough)

• Rutger Huntley – Peak Beach Volleyball (Millbrook)

• Rielle MacDougall – Lake Safe Swim Lessons (Peterborough)

@ptbo_canada Six aspiring entrepreneurs have graduated from Community Futures Peterborough’s 2026 Summer Company Program, turning their business ideas into thriving businesses. #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism #entrepreneur ♬ Success Inspirational - StereojamMusic

The program gave students hands-on experience launching and operating their own businesses while building valuable entrepreneurial, financial, marketing, and leadership skills.

“The Summer Company program allows students to do more than work a summer job. It gives them the opportunity to explore what it takes to be a leader, make decisions, solve problems, and build something of their own,” said Allison Adam, CFP entrepreneurship officer. “These students worked incredibly hard to create their own summer jobs, taking their ideas from concept to operation and learning firsthand what it takes to run a business. They rose to the challenge and excelled, which speaks volumes about both their dedication and the impact this program can have on young people.”

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Two Women Charged After Two Traffic Stops Made On the Same Vehicle

Two women are facing charges after two traffic stops with the same vehicle on Tuesday morning.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 11:30 a.m., a Traffic Unit officer was on general patrol when the Automated License Plate Reader alerted them to a suspended driver. The officer conducted a traffic stop and spoke with the driver and a female passenger. During the interaction, the officer learned that the passenger was also a suspended driver.

A 64-year-old Peterborough woman was ticketed under the Highway Traffic Act for:

• Drive while suspended x2 (two different reasons)

• Driving with no insurance

• Driving without a valid permit

• Failure to surrender permit for motor vehicle

As the officer was completing their notes, they observed the passenger get into the driver's side of the vehicle and drive away. The officer activated their emergency lights as the vehicle was not insured and conducted a second traffic stop on the same vehicle. During a search after arrest, officers located a satchel containing an expandable baton and a can of pepper spray. 

A 35-year-old Toronto woman was arrested and charged with:

• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose

• Possession of Weapon contrary to Prohibition Order

• Driving while under suspension X2 (Highway Traffic Act)

The accused is currently bound by a prohibition order with the following condition: to not possess any weapons as defined by the Criminal Code.

The accused was released on an undertaking with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 17.

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Peterborough Petes Reassign 20 Players Following Second Day of Training Camp

The Peterborough Petes have reassigned 20 players after the first two days of Training Camp, which included three scrimmages at Healthy Planet Arena.

Landon Roulston and Daniel Tout battling for the puck during training camp. Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Petes.

Following the third and final scrimmage, the following players have been reassigned:

• Quinn Creally

• Nathan Slack

• Hudson Clayton

• Chase MacKay

• Ty Gendron

• Matthew Crawford

• Jayden Mercier

• Aiden Plooy

• Shane Brown

• Eric Wood

• Marco Nichele

• Samuel Rivet

• Jax Conklin

• Josh Goodwin

• Ty Civello

• Ethan MacLeish

• Alex Spadafora

• Cale Williams

• Andrew Vaduva

• Zidane Jasey

“It has been a very competitive first two days on the ice,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager and vice president of operations. “We’ve had to make some difficult decisions as we move forward with Training Camp. We will continue to monitor the progress and development of these players over the coming season for future opportunities with the Peterborough Petes.”

All scrimmages will take place on the Sign-A-Fied pad at Healthy Planet Arena and are open to the public.

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City of Peterborough Releases List of Candidates Available For 2026 Municipal and School Board Election

The City of Peterborough has posted a certified list of candidates for the 2026 municipal and school board election, available online.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Starting Tuesday, voters can use the City’s Online Voter Services portal to check their registration, add or update their information, find their voting location, and see the candidates for their ballot. 

Online voting will be available beginning Oct. 5 at 10 a.m. Online voting ends at 8 p.m. on Oct. 26.  

Advance in-person voting will take place on Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Healthy Planet Arena, 911 Monaghan Rd. 

On Election Day, Oct. 26, in-person voting will be available from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at ward-specific voting locations. 

Voter notification cards will be received by mail in early October and will include information about online voting and in-person voting options. 

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Ennismore Musician Melissa Payne Bringing Her Fiddle to France in 2027

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough musician Melissa Payne is inviting fans to join her for a week in France next spring, where she’ll perform aboard an Avalon Waterways river cruise through Paris, Normandy and the French countryside.

Peterborough musician Melissa Payne is inviting fans to join her for a week in France next spring, where she’ll perform aboard an Avalon Waterways river cruise through Paris, Normandy and the French countryside. (photo via facebook @melissapaynemusic)

Payne will be bringing her fiddle along for the May 4th to 11th, 2027 adventure and will perform onboard throughout the week.

The cruise will travel along the Seine, giving passengers the chance to experience Paris, Normandy and smaller towns throughout the French countryside while enjoying live music along the way.

Payne says the trip will combine music, food, sightseeing and a week of cruising through France, and she’d love to have some familiar faces join her.

Those interested in learning more about the trip can find the full details here.

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

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Step Inside the YMCA: Balsillie Family Branch Opens Its Doors to the Community Saturday

By Scott Arnold

If you know the YMCA by its familiar logo but haven't been inside the doors lately, Saturday is a chance to see what the Y is really all about.

ymca staff and volunteers are eager to show the public what they have to offer during an open house on saturday at the balsillie family branch on aylmer street in peterborough (photo by scott arnold)

The YMCA of Central East Ontario is opening the doors of the Balsillie Family Branch on Aylmer Street this Saturday, August 29th, inviting the community in for a free afternoon of activities, demonstrations and a closer look at the programs and services available at the Y.

The open house runs from 11am to 2pm and everyone is welcome. No membership is required to take part.

For Cindy Mytruk, Manager of Partnerships and Inclusion, the event is an opportunity to do something the YMCA has not always been the best at doing: showing people just how much happens inside its doors.

“We always say, like we've been around for like 182 years, but we're not always the best at letting people know what we do,” Mytruk said.

And there is a lot to see.

The open house will feature activities for a wide range of ages and interests, including open swim and water activities, outdoor games and NHL Street Hockey, weather permitting, along with dance, gymnastics and dodgeball.

Visitors can also check out studio demonstrations featuring judo and fitness, try their hand at interactive games, take part in face painting and Treehouse activities, and visit information booths to learn more about YMCA programs and services.

The YMCA will also have information available about membership, camps, child care, health and fitness services, employment services and other community initiatives.

For those who have not been through the doors in a while, the open house could also be a chance to discover something new.

“If you've been here before, we may have added something new,” Mytruk said.

The YMCA's youth programs are included with membership, and the branch also offers a range of adult fitness opportunities, including its conditioning centre with weights, machines and cable machines.

But while the equipment, programs and facilities are a big part of what the YMCA offers, Mytruk says the people are what truly define the organization.

“We are an inclusive, welcoming place for all ages and stages of life,” she said. “And our staff are really invested in the community and that is what makes us different.”

That sense of community is a big part of Saturday's invitation. The open house isn't simply for people considering a YMCA membership. It's for longtime members, former members, families who have never visited, and anyone curious about what the Y has to offer.

The YMCA is a charitable organization, and its work extends well beyond the pool and fitness centre. Saturday's information booths will give visitors an opportunity to learn more about the broader range of programs and services available through the organization, as well as upcoming events.

And there will be plenty of opportunities to simply have some fun along the way.

The Good Baker, the on-site café, will also be open with food and baked goods available for purchase.

Mytruk says there is no need to register ahead of time. Just show up during the open house hours and come inside.

There will be a sign-in process at the entrance, and anyone 16 years and older is asked to bring photo ID. Once signed in, visitors can enjoy the open house for free.

The YMCA has been part of the community for generations, but Saturday's event is about looking at what the Y is today and what it continues to offer to the people who walk through its doors.

Whether you're coming to try a new activity, check out the facilities, learn about a program, bring the kids for an afternoon of fun or simply satisfy your curiosity, the invitation is straightforward.

Come in. Have a look around. Meet the people who make the YMCA what it is.

And maybe discover something you didn't know was here.

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

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