Stirling, Ontario Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions Commuters passing through Sterling this morning may have noticed traffic moving a little slower than usual. A water main break has closed West Front Street between Highway 14 and James Street, causing detours and delays throughout the area. According to city workers on scene, repairs are underway and the road is expected to reopen within a few hours. Traffic Advisory ⚠️ The intersection at Highway 14 and West Front Street is normally a four-way traffic light-controlled intersection. However, due to the disruption, all traffic lights are currently flashing red. City workers remind drivers that flashing red lights require motorists to treat the intersection as a three-way stop, proceeding in order of arrival and exercising caution. Incident Overview 📝 The water main break occurred earlier this morning, prompting a swift response from public works crews. The affected section of the line was isolated quickly, and repair operations began shortly thereafter. City workers report that no major service outages have occurred outside of the immediate area, though some residents may notice minor pressure fluctuations. Location Context 🌍 Sterling is located in Stirling-Rawdon Township, Hastings County, just north of Belleville in eastern Ontario. The affected stretch of West Front Street is a central route through town, close to local businesses, residences, and key community sites such as the Stirling-Rawdon Public Library. What Residents and Drivers Should Know 🧠 🚗 Drivers: Avoid West Front Street between Highway 14 and James Street. Follow posted detours. 🚦 Intersection: Flashing red lights are active at Highway 14. Treat the intersection as a three-way stop and proceed in order of arrival. 🚿 Water Service: If your tap water appears discoloured, run a cold tap for several minutes until it clears. 🚶‍♀️ Pedestrians: Most sidewalks remain accessible, but exercise caution near work zones and heavy equipment. Please consider sharing this information with others so they too may have a heads up about this temporary road closure Stay Alert, Stay Safe and Drive with Caution 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

ALNWICK/HALDIMAND TOWNSHIP Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions Northumberland OPP have laid multiple charges after officers responded to a disturbance at a home on the morning of July 29, 2025. Police were called around 9:00 a.m. with reports that someone inside a residence was causing damage and assaulting individuals. While no serious injuries were reported, the situation escalated during police intervention. According to police, the suspect resisted arrest, spat on an officer, and issued threats toward another. An 18-year-old female has been charged with: Assault Assaulting a peace officer Resisting a peace officer Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm Mischief under $5,000 The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg. 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

Image Source: Northumberland OPP July 21, 2025 – Northumberland OPP Seeking Suspect in $9,000 Ring Theft The Northumberland OPP is asking for the public’s help in identifying an individual connected to a high-value theft at a commercial property in Brighton. At approximately 6:40 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, officers responded to a report of a theft on Telephone Road in the Municipality of Brighton. According to the complainant, a jewelry ring valued at over $9,000 was stolen during a scheduled online marketplace transaction. The suspect reportedly fled the scene before officers arrived and has not yet been located. Police have now released an image of the individual in hopes that the public can assist in identifying them. The Northumberland OPP continues to investigate the incident, which is recorded under incident number E250969447. 📱 Who to Contact 🔍 If you have any information regarding the identity of this individual, please contact the Northumberland OPP Detachment in Brighton at 613-475-1313, or call the OPP non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000 for information that leads to an arrest. This investigation is ongoing. Please share this information to help locate the person responsible. 📰 Brought to you 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

BELLEVILLE, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions Following last week’s fire incident, InOutSnackz has issued a heartfelt message to the Belleville community, expressing deep gratitude for the kindness and support shown during a challenging time. "Hello Belleville," the message begins. "I know all of you heard about the fire that happened last week. What I’m here to say to the amazing community of Belleville is thank you so much for being so kind." The popular local snack shop, known for its unique treats and community presence, remains closed until further notice. The owner shared that due to smoke damage, most of the products in-store are no longer safe to consume, delaying a return to normal operations. However, there may be a temporary solution on the horizon. The owner is currently exploring the idea of setting up a tent in the parking lot to resume limited sales. While the selection won’t match the full range normally offered inside the store, it would allow customers to enjoy some of their favourite items while cleanup and restoration efforts continue. "As of reopening we’ll be closed until further notice," the message reads. "I have no idea on when I’ll resume normal operations and have the doors open. But I’ll see and talk to people if I can set up a tent on the parking lot and start selling again." The message ends on a hopeful note: "Stay awesome, Belleville." 💛 Donations Still Open To help InOutSnackz recover and rebuild, donations are still being accepted. 80% of all donations received through this article and our previous feature on the fire will go directly to supporting the business. Whether it helps cover temporary setup costs or future renovations, every contribution counts in keeping this beloved snack stop alive. 📢 Share the Story, Support the Recovery You can make a huge impact just by spreading the word. Share this article with friends, family, and neighbours — and don't hesitate to start a conversation in the comments or on social media. Your voice helps strengthen small businesses and brings communities closer together. 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 West, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions UPDATE: Road fully reopen as of 11:37am A serious collision between a cyclist and a vehicle has left one individual with life-altering injuries and prompted the closure of a section of County Road 64 in Quinte West this morning. Quinte West OPP and emergency crews responded to the scene near Barcovan Beach Road and Carter Road. The collision occurred earlier in the morning, and by 10:28 a.m., police confirmed that the road would remain closed while the investigation continued. The cyclist was transported to hospital with injuries that officials are calling “life-altering.” At this time, no further information has been released about the identities of those involved or the circumstances leading up to the collision. Police are asking drivers to avoid the area and plan alternate routes while the scene remains active. A Moment of Compassion Our thoughts are with the injured cyclist and their loved ones as they face what will no doubt be a long and difficult road to recovery. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly life can change in a matter of seconds, a routine morning ride can turn into a tragedy that affects an entire family, a community, and all those who witnessed or responded to the scene. First responders work tirelessly in moments like these to stabilize the injured, to secure the area, and to piece together the details with professionalism and care. Their work often goes unseen, but it is deeply appreciated. A Call for Caution and Care We urge all drivers and cyclists alike to remember that every road user is someone’s family member, friend, or neighbour. In rural areas like ours, where scenic roads often serve as cycling routes, it’s especially important to remain alert, patient, and respectful on the road. If you regularly travel County Road 64 or know someone who does, please help us spread awareness by sharing this article. Even one extra moment of caution behind the wheel can help prevent another tragedy like this from happening. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become 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

Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions You may have noticed a trend lately, more and more news organizations are disabling their comments sections. Silenced. Shut down. Disconnected from the people they serve. Not us. Not here at Small Town News . On our website, you will always have a place to have your say. We’ve proudly decided to keep  our comments open, because this isn’t just our  platform. It’s yours. This is your news, and your voice belongs in the conversation. We believe in real community engagement. We believe in tough questions, thoughtful opinions, and open dialogue. Whether you want to challenge a story, add your perspective, or simply say, “Thanks for covering this,”  we welcome it, all of it. We do not receive funding from any major corporations or political parties . We do this to ensure the news can remain independent and free of any outside influence other than the voice of you guys, our readers. That's how you know we care about the quality of news we deliver to you all. And clearly, the community cares too, because we've officially passed 60,000 readers/views  across our platform. That’s 60,000 moments of connection. 60,000 chances to inform, inspire, and include. You made that possible. We don’t do this for profit; we are publicly funded, and we understand that sometimes money is hard to come by in today's society, so we do it for a purpose and to help different communities across the country . We’re here to serve, to inform, and to reflect the heart of the communities we cover. A crucial part of that mission is listening, even when it’s messy, even when it’s uncomfortable, even when it challenges us, because that’s what true local journalism does: it listens and then tells the world and the communities it serves. So go ahead; speak up, comment, question, celebrate, and critique. Your voice doesn’t just belong here; it helps shape what we do next. Explore our work, support local news, and be a part of the conversation! 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

Image Courtesy of City of Kawartha Lakes Police Department Kawartha Lakes, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions UPDATE: LEAH HAS BEEN LOCATED SAFELY The Kawartha Lakes Police Service has issued a missing person alert for a local teen named Leah, urging the public to assist in locating her as soon as possible. Leah is described as being approximately 4'5" tall , with light brown hair . At the time she was last seen, she was wearing glasses , along with a burgundy shirt and pants . It’s also noted that she may have been carrying a longboard . Authorities have not released details about the circumstances of her disappearance, but they are treating the case with urgency and are calling on residents of the area to keep an eye out for Leah or anyone matching her description. The Kawartha Lakes Police Service is actively investigating and asks anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward. Timely tips from the public can make a critical difference in cases like this. If you have seen Leah or have any information on her whereabouts, please contact the Kawartha Lakes Police Service immediately. As a community, we are strongest when we look out for one another. Please share this information to help bring Leah home safely. Please share this alert and help us bring Leah home! 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

BELLEVILLE, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions The popular North China Buffet on Bell Boulevard has been ordered closed by the South East Health Unit (SEHU)  after serious public health concerns were brought to light. The decision to close the long-standing restaurant came swiftly after a video surfaced online appearing to show individuals removing discarded food items from a dumpster and transporting them back into the kitchen area. The footage, which quickly gained traction on social media, prompted immediate investigation from health officials. Following an on-site inspection, SEHU cited multiple violations of Ontario's Food Premises Regulation , leading to an official closure notice being issued. The health unit has confirmed that the establishment will remain closed until all issues are fully addressed and the facility passes a reinspection. While no reports of illness have been directly linked to the incident as of this writing, the SEHU urges anyone who recently dined at the buffet and is feeling unwell to seek medical attention and report symptoms by contacting their office at 613‑966‑5500 ext. 677 North China Buffet, which had been a fixture in Belleville’s dining scene for over two decades, was known for offering a wide selection of Chinese, Japanese, and Canadian buffet options. However, inspection records from recent years reveal a troubling pattern. Past reports noted issues ranging from improper food handling practices and inadequate sanitation to pest control problems and the presence of foreign materials in food. The newly formed South East Health Unit , which merged three regional public health agencies earlier this year, has stated it is working with the restaurant’s operators to ensure all food safety standards are met before any reopening is considered. The health unit emphasized its responsibility to protect the public and uphold confidence in the local food service industry. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing food safety education and rigorous hygiene practices in commercial kitchens. Public health officials are also encouraging the community to remain informed and report any concerns related to food safety. 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

COBOURG, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions Authorities are sounding the alarm after a Cobourg resident was defrauded of more than $60,000 in an elaborate investment scam that spanned multiple online platforms. According to the Cobourg Police Service, the victim met the alleged fraudster in person, after which communication continued over WhatsApp and other social media channels. Posing as a legitimate investor, the scammer convinced the victim to make multiple money transfers under the belief the funds were being properly invested. The scam only came to light after the victim realized they had lost a significant amount of money. The investigation is ongoing. Cobourg Police are urging the public to take extreme caution when approached with investment opportunities, especially those initiated online or over messaging apps. Tips to Protect Yourself from Investment Scams: ⚠️ Verify Credentials: Confirm the identity and licensing of any investor or financial advisor. Scammers often pose as professionals or use the names of real companies to gain trust. ⚠️ Demand Documentation: Always request receipts, contracts, or official investment documents before sending any money. A legitimate investor will have no problem providing proof. ⚠️ Do Your Research: Take time to independently verify the legitimacy of the investment. Look for reviews, licensing information, and third-party sources. ⚠️ Be Skeptical of High Returns: Investments that promise high or guaranteed returns with little to no risk are often fraudulent. ⚠️ Avoid Unverified Channels: Never send money or share personal information through messaging apps, unsecured websites, or unknown contacts. ⚠️ Protect Your Devices: Do not download unknown software or allow remote access to your computer from strangers. ⚠️ Guard Your Personal Info: Never share sensitive information such as your SIN, banking details, or passwords unless you’re 100% sure of the recipient’s identity and legitimacy. The Cobourg Police Service reminds residents: “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” If you suspect you’ve encountered fraud or have already sent money, report it as soon as possible. 👉 Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to learn more or file a report: www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca 📣 Help Spread Awareness Scammers rely on secrecy and misinformation to succeed. By sharing this article, you’re helping protect your friends, family, and community from falling victim to similar frauds. 🔁 Please share this story on social media, in community groups, and with anyone who might be vulnerable to online scams. 🗣️ Start a conversation and encourage others to stay informed and alert. Together, we can stop scams before they start. 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

PETERBOROUGH, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions A 63-year-old man from Peterborough is facing a criminal charge following a disturbing incident that occurred Saturday evening at a local bus stop. At approximately 6:30 p.m. on July 26, 2025, Peterborough Police responded to reports of a disturbance near Romaine Street and Monaghan Road. Witnesses informed officers that a man had allegedly been masturbating in public while children were nearby. Police located a man matching the description and took him into custody without incident. Following the investigation, the individual was arrested and charged with: Indecent Act – Public Place The accused was held in custody and appeared in Weekend and Statutory Holiday (WASH) court on Sunday, July 27. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the name of the accused has not been released. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the Peterborough Police Service. 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

HASTINGS, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions A local family is asking for the public’s help in finding their beloved dog, Ruby, who has been missing since approximately 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 26. Ruby is an 11-year-old terrier mix with a reddish-brown coat and a sweet, gentle face. She was last seen near County Road 45, just south of Richardson Road in Hastings. Ruby is a fixed female and was not wearing a collar at the time she went missing. Described as very friendly and approachable, Ruby may be seeking shelter or companionship. Her family is deeply concerned for her safety, especially considering her age. Anyone who sees Ruby or has information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the owners immediately at 416-902-7882 or 416-558-0634. Link to original post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FKyGtmjrG/ Photo of Ruby provided by Melissa Condotta Please share this information with others in the area to help bring Ruby home. 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

ODESSA, ONTARIO Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions A black cat named Luna has gone missing from her home on Main Street in Odessa, and her owner is asking for the community’s help in locating her. Luna slipped out during the early morning hours after pushing out a piece of wood that was securing an air conditioner in a window. Her owner, Kayla Rawlings, believes the escape happened sometime between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Luna's twin sister, who stayed safely indoors, is now anxiously waiting for her return. Luna is described as a sleek black cat with green eyes and was last seen near 15 Main Street. A reward is being offered for her safe return. “Luna is a big part of our family, and we’d really appreciate any help finding her,” Kayla said. “If you’ve seen her or taken her in, please reach out.” 🔗 Facebook Post: Click here to view and share the original post 📍 Last seen: Near 15 Main Street, Odessa, Ontario 📞 Contact: Reach out to Kayla Rawlings via Facebook Please consider sharing this article. Let’s help bring Luna back home. 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