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Kingston, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions| Kingston Police are appealing to the public for help in locating 14-year-old Gage, who has been reported missing. Gage was last seen on August 18, 2025, in the downtown core of Kingston. Described as 5’10” with brown hair, Gage was last observed wearing all black clothing and may have been in sock feet at the time. Police and family members are deeply concerned for Gage’s well-being and are hoping that someone in the community may have information that could assist in bringing the youth home safely. “Every set of eyes in the community can make a difference in situations like this,” Kingston Police stated. “Even the smallest detail could help us locate Gage quickly.” Anyone who may have seen Gage, or who has information about their whereabouts, is urged to call Kingston Police at 613-549-4660 ext. 0. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can also be submitted by calling the same number and asking to keep your identity confidential. Kingston Police thank residents for their vigilance and cooperation during this search. Please share this article to help spread the word and bring Gage home safely. 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions Air Canada and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing more than 10,000 flight attendants, have reached a tentative agreement to end a strike that has disrupted travel across the country for several days. The strike, which began late last week, led to more than 2,500 canceled flights and affected an estimated 130,000 passengers per day during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The core issue at the bargaining table was compensation for unpaid work performed by flight attendants while planes are on the ground. That matter has now been addressed in the new agreement, marking a key breakthrough in the negotiations. Air Canada has announced that flight operations will begin gradually resuming this evening, though a full return to normal schedules may take seven to ten days. The airline has also committed to offering full refunds to travelers whose plans were interrupted, while additional staff are being deployed at Toronto Pearson International Airport and other hubs to help ease the transition. Union leaders welcomed the deal, calling it a hard-fought step forward for flight attendants. “Unpaid work is over. We have reclaimed our voice and our power,” a CUPE spokesperson said following the announcement. Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau acknowledged the challenges ahead in restoring regular service but emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement that ends the disruption. “This has been a difficult period for our employees and our customers. Our focus now is on recovery and returning to reliable service as quickly as possible,” Rousseau said. The tentative agreement still requires ratification by union members. If approved, it will bring an official close to the strike and provide new labor terms designed to address long-standing concerns among flight attendants. For now, passengers are advised to check their flight status regularly, as schedules may remain unpredictable while the airline works to clear backlogs and reset operations nationwide. 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Air Canada flight attendants strike has now entered its second day, with workers defying a government back-to-work order and continuing their walkout. The labour dispute, which began just after midnight on August 16, 2025, has already grounded hundreds of flights and disrupted travel for well over 100,000 passengers daily. Why Flight Attendants Are on Strike Roughly 10,000 flight attendants, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), are demanding fairer pay and recognition for unpaid duties such as boarding and safety checks. CUPE estimates attendants spend more than 30 hours each month on tasks not covered by wages, and says Air Canada’s latest offer fails to match inflation and leaves some members effectively earning less than minimum wage. Air Canada disputes these claims, pointing to a proposed 38% compensation increase over four years, including an immediate 8% raise. The airline argues its package is competitive and has urged the union to accept binding arbitration to resolve the conflict quickly. Government Orders and Union Defiance As the strike stretched into its second day, Labour Minister Patty Hajdu directed the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to order attendants back to work under binding arbitration. The CIRB set a deadline of 2:00 p.m. on August 17, but CUPE refused, calling the directive unconstitutional and a violation of workers’ rights. The union has also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest involving the CIRB chair’s past work with Air Canada. Passenger Impact Grows The strike’s effects have intensified heading into day two. Air Canada and its low-cost subsidiary Rouge have canceled up to 700 flights in a single day, with more cancellations expected until service resumes. Regional flights under Air Canada Express continue, but alternative options remain scarce at the height of the summer travel season. The airline has warned passengers not to go to airports unless they have confirmed tickets. Refunds and rebooking are available, but demand is overwhelming, leaving many stranded or forced to make costly last-minute changes. What Happens Next With no resolution in sight, the strike continues into its second day, and Air Canada has delayed its planned restart of flights. The federal government insists arbitration is the only way forward, while CUPE says it remains open to negotiation but will not accept terms it views as unjust. The situation highlights ongoing tensions in Canada’s airline industry over pay, working conditions, and the balance between labour rights and essential public services. For passengers and employees alike, the standoff means continued uncertainty. The strike has entered its second day, and further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Video taken by Small Town News, a division of Small Town Productions Stirling, Ontario | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Brett Kissel’s concert in Stirling was briefly interrupted when an altercation broke out between two women in the audience. Security quickly intervened, Kissel paused the show and addressed the crowd directly, drawing loud cheers when he reminded fans, “This is not what small towns are all about. Small towns are the best people, the kindest people, and you need to follow those rules." Just moments after resuming the performance, Kissel stopped again to point out a third disruptive audience member, this time a gentleman, who was removed by security. The crowd responded with applause, backing Kissel’s firm stance on maintaining a respectful atmosphere. A video captured by our team at Small Town News shows the tense moment unfolding, followed by the crowd rallying behind the country star’s calm and professional handling of the situation. The concert soon resumed without further issue, and what could have dampened the evening instead became a unifying moment that reinforced the small-town values Kissel proudly highlighted from the stage. Brett reminds us all what small towns stand for, and all of us at Small Town Productions and Small Town News agree. 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

STIRLING, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Stirling Fair returns this weekend, bringing three days of unforgettable fun, thrilling events, and community spirit to life. From the opening night concert to the roar of the derby and the charm of agricultural showcases, this year’s fair promises something for everyone. The weekend kicks off in style on Friday, August 15 , with a concert by Canadian country star Brett Kissel . Known for hits like Airwaves  and Make a Life, Not a Living , Kissel brings energy and excitement that sets the tone for the festivities. Opening the show, Adam Gibson adds his own flair, creating a lively start that will have the crowd buzzing. Beyond the music, visitors can explore homecraft exhibits , enjoy midway rides , and sample treats from local food vendors , all part of the fair’s welcoming atmosphere. Saturday, August 16  is a day where tradition meets thrill. The fairgrounds come alive with agricultural showcases , including the 4-H Dairy Achievement Show, Goat Show, and Horse & Pony Pulls, highlighting the skill and dedication of local farmers. Families can enjoy hands-on experiences at the petting zoo , watch blacksmiths at work, or let the kids explore the dedicated Kids Zone. For adrenaline seekers, the Demo Cross and Big Daddy Demo Derby  provide edge-of-your-seat excitement, while live music from Green River Revival , a tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival, fills the air. Classic cars, lawn mower races, and truck and tractor pulls add to the weekend’s action, creating a lively celebration of both heritage and entertainment. As the fair winds down on Sunday, August 17 , the focus shifts to a more relaxed pace, allowing visitors to savor the final moments. Tractor and truck pulls, the beef show, lawn mower races, and last chances to view homecraft exhibits  round out the weekend, leaving memories of laughter, music, and thrilling performances. The Stirling Fair is more than just a series of events, it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and togetherness . With music, motors, animals, and family-friendly fun, the 2025 fair is a weekend that promises to delight visitors of all ages. Whether you’re drawn by the excitement of the derby, the charm of the agricultural displays, or the thrill of live music, there’s no shortage of reasons to join in the festivities. Stirling Fair 2025  is ready to welcome everyone for a weekend of excitement, memories, and celebration, a small-town fair with a big-time experience. See you at the fair! 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Belleville will be alive with energy this weekend as Belleville Ribfest  and the Belleville Caribbean Festival  take over the city from Friday, August 15, through Sunday, August 17 . Together, they promise a vibrant mix of sizzling BBQ, live music, colourful parades, and family-friendly fun. Belleville Caribbean Festival The Caribbean Festival  brings a burst of island culture to the city, starting Friday  afternoon at Victoria Park with the elegant Fête en Blanc  (“Party in White”). This ticketed kick-off event runs from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., featuring live DJs, island-inspired food vendors, a beer garden, and dancing as the sun sets over the bay. On Saturday , the action moves downtown with a street festival and a colourful parade that leaves West Zwick’s Park at 1:00 p.m. and travels down Front Street. Expect the streets to be lined with artisan booths, Caribbean cuisine, games, balloon art, face painting, an obstacle course, and busker performances. Live entertainment will include the York Lions Steel Band, N2 The Band featuring Ravi Sookhoo, DJ Mydnyte, and even a limbo contest. The festival wraps up on Sunday  with Fusion Day  at Zwick’s Park, offering a Caribbean brunch and gospel hour from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. , paired with live music. Pop-ups on the Bay and Ribfest  vendors will also be serving, blending cultural traditions with irresistible flavour. Belleville Ribfest Ribfest  takes over West Zwick’s Park from Friday to Sunday , filling the air with the smoky aroma of slow-cooked BBQ. Some of the best rib teams in North America—such as Fat Boys BBQ, Billy Bones BBQ, Camp 31, and Texas Rangers BBQ—will be serving up their award-winning ribs, pulled pork, and chicken. Beyond the food, Ribfest  offers a full slate of activities: a classic car “Show & Shine Invitational,” a cornhole tournament, inflatables, games, a Nerf course, and live music to keep the energy high. The event also supports local causes, with proceeds going to the Belleville Lions Club and Gleaners Food Bank. On Saturday , Ribfest ’s festivities will blend with the Caribbean Festival  as the parade makes its way downtown, then back toward the park. Sunday  will see both events sharing Zwick’s Park for a grand finale of music, food, and community spirit. Plan Your Weekend With road closures in effect downtown on Saturday  and busy parking near the event sites, organizers recommend arriving early or using alternative transportation. Aside from Friday ’s Fête en Blanc , all activities at both festivals are free. This weekend, Belleville is set to become the summer’s most vibrant destination. Whether you’re dancing to the beat of the steel drums, biting into a rack of smoky ribs, or enjoying a Caribbean breakfast under the summer sun, these two festivals, Belleville Ribfest  and Belleville Caribbean Festival promise a weekend you won’t want to miss. 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

KINGSTON, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Kingston Police are reminding residents that 9-1-1 should only be used for emergencies. Dispatchers have seen a recent increase in calls regarding bats inside homes across the city. While bats can carry rabies, most encounters are not emergencies. Please follow these safety tips: Avoid Contact – Never touch or try to capture a bat. Leave a Way Out – If a bat is indoors, close interior doors and open a window or exterior door so it can leave naturally. Seek Professional Help – If removal is needed or there has been physical contact, contact your local health unit or a licensed wildlife control service. Do NOT call 9-1-1. Report Dead Bats – Notify your health unit if a dead bat is found on your property so it can be tested for rabies. This precaution helps ensure emergency lines remain open for true emergencies while still protecting public health. For more information: Contact your local health unit or a qualified wildlife removal 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

BELLEVILLE, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | On July 22, a deeply meaningful item was lost at the Quinte Mall; it's a gold chain with an angel pendant, filled with the ashes of a beloved mother. The chain belonged to an incredible woman who is now devastated by its disappearance. This wasn’t just jewelry, it was a sacred keepsake, a connection to someone she loved dearly and lost. The emotional toll of losing something so irreplaceable is immense. That’s why they are offering a substantial reward for its safe return or for any credible information that leads to it. 🙏 If you found this chain, or know someone who might have come across it, please do the right thing. Your kindness could bring immense comfort to someone who is truly heartbroken. You can DM us on our Facebook page or message us on the website directly with any leads or to arrange its return. No questions asked, just a sincere hope to restore something that means the world to a grieving soul. Let’s come together as a community and help bring this precious item 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Link to Interactive Fire Map: Click Here MUNICIPALITY OF MARMORA & LAKE, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Haliburton 18 (HAL018) wildfire remains Under Control , a status first reached earlier this week. This classification means the fire is fully contained within established lines, with no risk of further spread under current or expected conditions. Bringing HAL018 to this point was no small task. Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) crews, supported by local firefighters, worked tirelessly in challenging terrain to stop the fire’s advance. Their determination, expertise, and ability to adapt to shifting conditions made all the difference. This accomplishment is a testament to what can be achieved through teamwork and commitment. Each firefighter, support worker, and planner played a vital role in ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and protecting Ontario’s wildlands. Although the fire is under control, monitoring and patrol work continues to keep it that way, ensuring the area remains 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

KAWARTHA LAKES, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Haliburton 19 (HAL019) wildfire remains in " Being Held"  status, a designation first achieved yesterday. This status means that, with current committed resources, sufficient suppression action has been taken so the fire is not expected to spread beyond established control boundaries under prevailing or forecasted conditions. This milestone reflects the incredible dedication and skill of the Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) staff and the firefighters from the City of Kawartha Lakes. Their coordinated response, determination, and countless hours on the fireline have brought this wildfire under control and kept it that way. To every firefighter and support team member involved, thank you. Your commitment has not only protected the surrounding communities and natural landscapes but also served as a powerful reminder of the bravery and teamwork that define Ontario’s wildfire response. While the fire remains held, crews continue to monitor and maintain suppression efforts to ensure it stays that way. Residents can follow ongoing updates about wildland fires across the province through Ontario’s Interactive Fire Map 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

COLBORNE,ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions OPP have closed a section of Highway 401 westbound at Big Apple Drive/Percy Street following a multi-vehicle collision on Wednesday evening. Emergency services are on scene, and traffic is being diverted as crews work to manage the incident. The extent of injuries remains unknown at this time. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes to allow first responders space to operate safely. Delays are expected until the scene is cleared. Further updates will be provided 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

KAWARTHA LAKES, ON Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions The City of Kawartha Lakes reports that firefighting crews continue to manage two active wildfires in the region. Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service thanks the public, firefighters, allied agencies for their ongoing support. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), the fires remain classified as "Not Under Control" Burnt River area fire – located near CR 49 and CR 121 Kirkfield area fire – located near Prospect Rd and Eldon Station Rd Crews from Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service and MNR are actively working to contain the flames. Recent rain and cooler temperatures have helped, but unfortunately, it was not enough to bring the fires fully under control. 🌡 Upcoming Weather Conditions: Hot and dry conditions continue to challenge firefighters as the heat wave continues this week, though the brief relief from rain and cloud cover has aided their recent containment efforts. 🚧 Road Closures: • CR 49 (between CR 121 and Bury’s Green) • Prospect Rd (near 1300–1375 Prospect Rd) 🚫 Public Safety: Residents are advised to stay clear of fire areas so crews can work safely. A total fire ban is in effect, and open-air burning is strictly prohibited. Public Safety Reminders: • No evacuation is necessary at this time. • Report smoke immediately: 📞 705-324-2191 • Drones are prohibited – flying them is illegal and dangerous to air and ground crews. We all owe a sincere thank you to the brave men and women of the Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service and The Kawartha Lakes Volunteer Firefighters' Association for their tireless work protecting our communities. 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’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6