Belleville residents can expect a more convenient curbside experience starting the week of July 21, 2025. As part of a province-wide shift, the city’s recycling program is moving to a producer-funded model, and with that comes a few helpful changes to how and when materials are picked up. 🛻 One Day for All Curbside Collection If keeping track of garbage, recycling, and green bin pickup on different days has felt like a juggling act, we have some good news! Starting the week of July 21, everything will be collected on the same day each week. That means your Blue Box, green bin, and garbage can all go to the curb together. This change is part of Belleville’s transition to a new recycling system led by Circular Materials Ontario (CMO), with collections handled by E360 Solutions, a company now responsible for picking up recycling in the area. ✅ What You Need to Know Look up your new pickup day with the Collection Day Map Put out all items by 7:00 a.m. on that day Continue sorting your recycling the same way Use the hazardous waste depot as needed Call E360 Solutions for recycling concerns after July 21 📞 Who to Contact for Help Until July 21: Call the City’s Operations Centre at 613‑962‑7107 or use the online “Report an Issue” tool. Starting July 21: Recycling collection questions should be directed to E360 Solutions at 613‑392‑7107 or customerservice-eastont@e360s.ca. 🧪 Hazardous Waste Services Continue The Household Hazardous Waste Depot at 75 Wallbridge Crescent will continue operating as usual through the end of 2025, so residents can still drop off items like paint, batteries, and other materials not suited for curbside pickup. 🧾 Why These Changes Are Happening Under Ontario’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program, the companies that create packaging and paper products are now responsible for funding and managing recycling programs. This takes the cost off municipalities like Belleville and shifts it to the companies that produce waste in the first place. ♻️ Recycling Info Works Best When It’s Reused Know someone still chasing three trucks a week? Help them curb their confusion, and share Belleville’s new collection schedule with friends, family, and neighbours. Ways to pass it on: 📲 Post it on social 📧 Forward it by email 📎 Tape it to the fridge (classic) To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU 6

Quinte West, ON, July 17, 2025 Police are warning residents in the Quinte West area to be on high alert after several people were targeted in an ongoing “emergency scam” operation. According to OPP East Region, three residents recently fell victim to the scam, which involves a phone call from someone claiming to be a family member, often a grandchild in urgent need of money due to a supposed accident or arrest. In each case, the caller used panic and urgency to convince the victim to withdraw large sums of cash. One individual reportedly handed over thousands of dollars before realizing the story was a hoax. Seniors Are Often the Focus While anyone can be targeted, authorities note that older adults tend to be approached more frequently in these types of scams. Criminals often assume seniors may be more trusting and less likely to question the call. The OPP is reminding all residents, especially those with elderly family members, to be vigilant. What to Watch For 👀 Emergency scams often involve: A distressed phone call from someone pretending to be a loved one. A second caller pretending to be a police officer or lawyer. Urgent requests for bail or medical money, usually in cash. Instructions not to tell anyone, especially other family members. Protect Yourself and Loved Ones ⚠️ Police recommend the following steps: Verify the caller’s story. Hang up and call the family member or someone close to them. Don’t be pressured. Take time to think before acting. Never give cash to a stranger or courier based on a phone call. Report any suspicious contact to police immediately. Community Awareness is Key ✅ The OPP encourages families to talk openly about scams and keep an eye out for signs their loved ones may have been contacted. Sharing this information widely could prevent further victims. If you suspect you or someone you know has been targeted, contact Quinte West OPP or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. 📢 Please share this alert, especially with friends, neighbours, and seniors who may not use social media. A quick conversation today could save someone from serious financial loss tomorrow. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU 6

📍 29 Pickens Road, Hastings, Ontario🗓️ August 22–23, 2025 Get ready, folks! Crooks Rapids Country Fest  is ridin’ back into the heart of Trent Hills , and this year’s gonna be bigger, louder, and twangier than ever! Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just lookin’ for a wild weekend by the water, you won’t wanna miss this two-day celebration of music, memories, and small-town pride. 🎶 Two Days of Pure Country Gold 🔥 Friday, August 22 – Kickoff Night Colt Harley  – bringin’ bold vocals and outlaw energy The Ireland Brothers  – hometown favourites with deep roots Jane Archer  – smooth, strong, and soulful Rayzors Edge  – special guests to light up Friday night 🌟 Saturday, August 23 – Main Event Cold Creek County  – country rock giants, headlining the night Brian John Harwood  – full of heart and Canadian country soul Alexa Goldie  – powerhouse vocals and fresh energy Jessie T  – catchy, upbeat, and radio-ready Kevin Parish  – a voice like honey over a campfire Nephton Ridge Runners  – local legends The Road Apples  – Canada’s top Tragically Hip tribute act to close things out with a bang 🏕️ What to Expect at the Rapids This ain’t your average music fest, it’s a full-on weekend experience  with the perfect blend of music, good eats, and country charm. 🎤 Live Music by Some Amazing Artists 🛻 On-Site Camping (VIP & General) 🍔 Food Trucks & Cold Beer 🛍️ Local Artisan Market 🎉 Family-Friendly Vibes 🌲 Riverside Views & Small-Town Hospitality Bring your lawn chairs, your dancing boots, and your appetite; this is where memories are made and legends are born. 🎟️ Tickets On Sale Now! Visit www.crooksrapidscountryfest.com  for: Weekend Passes Single-Day Tickets VIP Camping Packages (includes two passes, exclusive merch, drink tickets & front-field access) 🎫 This fest sells out fast — don’t wait ‘til last minute! 💛 Built By Locals, Loved Across Ontario Crooks Rapids Country Fest is proudly hosted in Hastings and supported by the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce. What started as a local celebration has grown into one of Ontario’s most anticipated summer events, without ever losing that down-home feel. 🎤 Let’s Wrap This Up with a Yeehaw! If you love live country, cool riverside air, and good people who know how to party — Crooks Rapids Country Fest 2025  is your kind of place. See y’all at the Rapids — August 22 & 23. Let’s make it one to remember! 🤝 Let’s Get the Word Goin’ Good things are better when shared, and Crooks Rapids Country Fest  is no exception. If you’re feelin’ excited, proud, or just plain ready for the weekend of the summer, help us spread the buzz! Tell your family, holler at your friends, text the group chat, or mention it over coffee at the diner; every little bit helps  this grassroots festival grow. Here’s how you can help us spread the word: 📲 Share the news on Facebook, Instagram, or wherever your people hang out 🗣️ Talk it up in your community — at work, at school, at the feed store 📅 Remind folks it’s happenin’ August 22–23 in Hastings, Ontario 🤠 Tag along with the hashtag #CrooksRapidsCountryFest This festival’s built on community, and there’s nothin’ more country than rallyin’ the folks you care about. So go on, get out those boots, dust off that hat, and come on down for a great time with friends and some good ol-fashioned country music. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU 6

Peterborough, ON Beginning Monday, July 21, 2025, Hilliard Street will be closed to through traffic between Anson Street and George Street for a major road reconstruction project. The closure is expected to remain in effect until August 15, 2025. While the road will be closed to general traffic, local access to properties within the construction zone will be maintained, and formal detour routes will be in place when necessary. Drivers are asked to obey all posted signage and detours for their safety and the safety of construction crews. This infrastructure upgrade includes: New traffic signal installation at the intersection of George and Hilliard Streets Partial reconstruction and realignment of the George-Hilliard intersection Addition of new sidewalks and trail links at the intersection Enhanced lighting along the Rotary Greenway Trail Link from Hilliard Street to Bethune Street These improvements aim to increase safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike. Motorists should expect delays in the area and are encouraged to plan alternate routes where possible. Updates will be provided as the project progresses. 📣 Help Spread the Word Not everyone may be aware of this road closure. Please share this notice with friends, family, and neighbours who travel through the area so they can plan ahead and avoid unnecessary delays. Community awareness helps reduce congestion and keeps everyone safe. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU 6

STIRLING-RAWDON/QUINTE WEST, ON Stirling-Rawdon and parts of Quinte West will see big changes to their recycling collection this month as the municipality transitions to Ontario’s new province-wide blue box system . The current municipal program is ending, and with it, the old recycling schedule — all recycling collection will now take place on Wednesdays , for all zones. 🚛 Recycling Moves to Wednesdays Until now, Stirling-Rawdon operated on a two-day system: Zone 1  (primarily west of Stirling) was collected on Mondays Zone 2  (east side) was collected on Wednesdays That is now ending. Starting July 23rd under the new program: Zone 1  will switch to Wednesdays , with the first pickup under the new system starting soon Zone 2  will remain on Wednesdays , but transition to the new program one week later Residents must have their blue boxes out by 7:00 a.m.  on collection day. Garbage pickup remains unchanged — this update only affects recycling. ♻️ Why Is This Happening? The change is part of Ontario’s move to a producer responsibility model  for recycling. Instead of municipalities handling collection, the responsibility now falls to the producers — the companies that create packaging and paper products. The new system is managed by Circular Materials , a national non-profit organization tasked with overseeing this transition province-wide. 🔄 What Else Is Changing? 🗓️ All recycling moves to Wednesdays — no more Monday pickup 🗑️ The municipality will no longer run recycling collection ✅ You can still use your current blue boxes 📦 Sorting guidelines may change , so review them carefully to avoid contamination or missed pickups 📌 How to Stay Informed Use these official sources to keep up with your zone, dates, and sorting requirements: 🗺️ Stirling-Rawdon Garbage & Recycling Page ; Includes updated calendars, notices, and zoning maps 📄 Quinte Waste Solutions ; Offers downloadable guides, recycling lists, and FAQs 🌐 Circular Materials – Ontario Blue Box Transition ; Learn about the new rules and who’s managing your recycling ✅ Summary: ♻️ Recycling moves to Wednesdays for everyone 📍 Zone 1: currently Monday → switching to Wednesday 📍 Zone 2: continues Wednesday, under new system ⏰ Bins must be out by 7:00 a.m. 🗑️ Garbage pickup stays the same 🔄 New program, same blue box This is a significant change for Stirling-Rawdon and a step toward a more unified, efficient, and environmentally responsible recycling system. Stay informed, sort properly, and help make the transition a smooth one for our community. 🔄Repost and Recycle ♻️ Please consider reposting/sharing this article to help your fellow neighbours in the Stirling area know what changes lie ahead for their blue bin program. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU 6

To our readers and the community, We at Small Town News would like to issue a formal apology and clarification regarding our recent article titled “Allegations of Animal Neglect Surface at Belleville’s Dog Lovers Playground.” The information shared in that article was based entirely on a public Facebook post authored by rrruffhouse.com , and the claims made within were theirs alone. Our intent was solely to report on what was publicly posted, not to make or support any direct accusations ourselves. We did not independently verify the claims and do not take a personal or company stance regarding the operations or conduct of Dog Lovers Playground. Our role as a community-based platform is to reflect local stories and concerns, but we recognize the importance of clearly distinguishing between reported allegations and established facts. If any part of the article gave the impression that Small Town News or Small Town Productions was accusing the business and its staff directly, we sincerely apologize. That was not our intention. We remain committed to transparency, fairness, and responsible reporting. We also respect the rights of all individuals and businesses to respond to claims made about them, and we welcome any official response from the parties involved should they wish to provide one. After Dog Lovers Playground messaged us we posted the following in the article: " UPDATE: Small Town News has received a response to the article from Dog Lover's Playground. They have denied all allegations stating that" water is refreshed routinely, dogs are rotated frequently for both bathroom breaks and enrichment activities. They have also stated they are "more than willing to provide an onsight tour to show us their climate controlled rooms for downtime and just how much they love and care for the dogs they are trusted with". Thank you for your understanding and continued support and once again we would like to sincerely apologize as our intention was not to directly accuse or verify the claims made against Dog Lovers Playground Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Brighton, Ontario (July 14, 2025) UPDATE: The collision does seem to have been fatal, our thought and sincerest condolences go out to the family at this time. Emergency services responded Monday morning to a serious collision between a truck and a CN freight train at the rural crossing of Hunt Road and Highway 2 in Brighton. The crash occurred just before 8 a.m. when the truck was struck and overturned by the train while crossing the tracks. The train came to a full stop immediately after the impact, prompting an urgent response from Northumberland OPP, Cramahe Township firefighters, and paramedics.

BLOOMFIELD, ON – July 14, 2025 (16:15) Fire crews from Prince Edward County are responding to a confirmed vegetation fire involving a combine harvester at 2373 County Road 1, just outside Bloomfield. Stations 1, 2, and 7 have been dispatched to the scene, where a working combine in a field reportedly caught fire. There is concern that the blaze may have spread to nearby farmland, although the full extent of the damage remains unclear at this time. Firefighters are actively assessing the scene to determine containment strategies, and multiple tanker trucks have been requested to support water shuttle operations. This approach is critical to maintaining a steady water supply in rural areas lacking hydrants. Residents are asked to avoid the area while emergency crews work to contain the fire. Updates will follow as more information becomes available. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Disclaimer: We do not issue the warnings for Air Quality but choose to report on them once issued by Environment Canada for the vulnerable sector; seniors, pet's, children and those with pre-existing health conditions. UPDATE: The Air Quality Statement has been extended until July 15th, 4:09 am Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for multiple regions across southern and central Ontario as smoke from distant wildfires continues to impact local air quality. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) associated with wildfire smoke is the main concern, with concentrations reaching levels that could pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable individuals. The smoke may cause symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, headaches, or shortness of breath, especially among children, seniors, and people with pre-existing health conditions like asthma or heart disease. Residents are advised to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, stay indoors when possible, and use air purifiers or air conditioners with clean filters. Those who must go outside are encouraged to wear properly fitted masks used for reducing inhalation of fine particular matter. 📍 Regions Currently Affected by the Special Air Quality Statement: City of Toronto Mississauga – Brampton Vaughan – Richmond Hill – Markham Pickering – Oshawa – Southern Durham Uxbridge – Beaverton – Northern Durham Newmarket – Georgina – Northern York Region Caledon Halton Hills – Milton Burlington – Oakville Hamilton Niagara Region St. Catharines – Grimsby – Northern Niagara London – Parkhill – Eastern Middlesex County Strathroy – Komoka – Western Middlesex County Waterloo – Wellington Guelph – Erin – Southern Wellington County Barrie – Collingwood – Hillsdale Orillia – Lagoon City – Washago Grey – Bruce Parry Sound – Muskoka Haliburton Dufferin – Innisfil Peterborough – Kawartha Lakes Belleville – Quinte – Northumberland 🔎 What to Watch For: Hazy skies or burning smells in the air Throat or lung irritation Increased breathing difficulty, especially for at-risk populations ✅ How to Stay Safe: Keep windows and doors closed. Run air conditioning in recirculation mode. Avoid outdoor physical exertion. Check in on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours. Monitor air quality forecasts regularly at airqualityontario.com . Environment Canada says conditions are expected to gradually improve over the next 24–48 hours depending on local wind patterns and wildfire activity. 📢 Please share this article to help others in your community stay safe and informed especially seniors, families with children, and those with health conditions. Let’s take care of each other. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Kingston, Ontario — July 14, 2025 UPDATE: The Individual has been located and arrested. The Kingston Police service thanks everyone for working together and helping them in their investigation. A concerning series of events in Kingston has prompted a public safety alert, following multiple reports of a woman in psychological distress attempting to abduct children from private properties along Montreal Street. According to anonymous reports shared within the community, the woman, described as having dark hair, has approached several families in separate incidents, each time claiming that blonde-haired children were her own. In one alarming case, the woman reportedly attempted to physically take a child from their yard during the day, then returned to the same residence around 1 a.m., peering through windows. In another incident that occurred more recently, she entered a different family's yard, claiming a little girl was actually her son dressed in girls’ clothing. She then threatened to return for the child. Shortly after police were notified of this second encounter, a more aggressive altercation occurred where the woman allegedly returned to the same location, spitting and yelling at parents, accusing them of holding her child captive. She even went so far as to claim a full-grown blonde-haired man was her son and tried to lure him away. Description of the Woman: Dark hair White striped tank top Black sweatpants Possibly wearing a black zip-up jacket Kingston Police are actively searching for the individual. She is considered a potential risk to both herself and others. If you see someone matching this description or witness any suspicious behaviour, call 911 immediately. Community members, especially those living in the Montreal Street area, are urged to remain vigilant. Check on your neighbours, especially families with young children, and stay alert to unusual activity. 🔁 Please share this alert with others in the Kingston area. By spreading awareness, we can help protect vulnerable members of our community and ensure everyone stays informed and safe. This article was prepared by Small Town News | a Division of Small Town Productions. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

QUINTE, ONTARIO Beginning next week, crews will begin applying a slurry seal to several residential roads in Belleville, Ontario and its surrounding communities, including Foxboro and the Plainfield area. This preventative pavement treatment helps extend the life of roadways by sealing cracks, restoring surface texture, and improving safety over time. The work is expected to wrap up by July 31, weather permitting. 🛣️ Roads Scheduled for Slurry Seal Treatment Ashley Street (from Highway 62 through Foxboro toward Frankford Road — a key route bordering the Plainfield area) Sarah Court Ava Court Parkwood Gardens Thistlewood Court Simcoe Drive (Farnham Road to Chestnut Drive) Dorset Court Chelsea Crescent Bristol Place Avondale Road (north of Harder Drive) Hilton Place Hayden Place Kirsten Place Hunter Place Amber Place Meagher Place Lavender Place 📍These roads span key neighbourhoods throughout Belleville, particularly in the northern sections near Foxboro, and some serve as important access points toward the Plainfield corridor. ⚠️ Safety Notice: Fresh Slurry Seal Can Be Hazardous Motorists and cyclists are urged to use caution. Driving on freshly applied slurry seal can: Cause damage to your vehicle, including tar splatter on paint and wheels. Lead to loss of traction, especially for motorcycles and bicycles. Track material onto driveways and other roadways, potentially spreading the mess. Be dangerous for pets and pedestrians, particularly young children 🚗 Avoid parking on the road during the day, and obey all posted signs and detours. 📣 Help Keep the Community Informed If you live in or travel through Belleville, Foxboro, or Plainfield, please share this notice, especially with seniors, bicyclists or people who use a motorcycle, pet owners (damage to paws of pets), and other members of the community. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping everyone safe and prepared. Stay tuned to Small Town News, powered by Small Town Productions, for real, local updates that matter. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Trent Hills, ON The Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating a fatal single-vehicle collision that occurred late Friday night in Trent Hills. At approximately 11:20 p.m. on July 11, 2025, emergency responders were called to the area of County Road 25 and County Road 35 following reports of a crash. Upon arrival, officers located a lone male occupant in the vehicle and began CPR. Paramedics took over care shortly after and transported the man to Campbellford Memorial Hospital, where the 54-year-old Trent Hills resident was pronounced deceased. As of 6:45 a.m. Saturday, officers with the OPP’s Technical Collision Investigation (TCI) Unit were on their way to assist with the investigation. County Road 25 remains closed between Concession Road 8 and Concession Road 11, and is expected to remain shut down throughout the morning while police complete their investigation. The incident remains under active investigation, and anyone with information that may assist is urged to contact Northumberland OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca. 🕊 From the Small Town News Team We send our sincere condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss. Please drive with care and be mindful of emergency crews in the area. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6