Link: Belleville Police Media Release | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Belleville Police Service  has issued a media release raising concerns about a growing backlog of Provincial Offences Act (POA) matters in Hastings County, warning that ongoing court delays are preventing timely justice and undermining public confidence in the justice system. According to the release, significant delays in judicial availability are preventing POA matters from moving forward within expected timeframes. As cases approach the province’s 15-month guideline, they must be withdrawn, even when investigations are complete, and all procedural requirements have been met. Police Chief Murray Rodd says "officers complete investigations and meet every obligation, only to have cases dismissed because no judicial time is available .” The service points to limited court capacity as a central issue. Hastings County currently has only 85 judicial sitting days per year , which significantly restricts scheduling. Early Resolution meetings cannot occur without a Justice of the Peace, and informal resolution options available in other jurisdictions are not available locally. While the Province is considering modernization efforts, including allowing court clerks to accept guilty pleas, police note in the release that “ these measures have not yet been implemented .” “Our officers are completing their work thoroughly and on time,” said Chief Rodd . “ The challenges we are seeing are the result of systemic court scheduling limitations, not police action. Yet our officers’ work is set aside and the public sees cases withdrawn without resolution. That is a lose-lose for Belleville. ” Police warn the backlog “ weakens accountability, damages trust in the justice system, wastes municipal and police resources, and leaves citizens, victims, and complainants waiting for outcomes that never arrive .” The Belleville Police Service says it continues to work collaboratively with Hastings County but remains constrained by structural limitations beyond local control. The service reaffirmed its support for provincial modernization efforts and its commitment to securing the judicial capacity needed to deliver timely and effective justice for the community. Why This Matters In the media release, police emphasize that court backlogs affect more than scheduling. When cases are withdrawn due to delays, accountability can be reduced, public trust may be strained, and residents who report incidents or participate in the justice process may be left without resolution. Police stress that these outcomes are not the result of investigative failures, but of broader systemic limitations within the court system. The situation raises questions about access to justice, court capacity, and how confidence in the justice system can be maintained when cases are unable to proceed. What Do You Think? Do court backlogs affect your confidence in the justice system, or do you see this as an unavoidable structural issue? Everyone is encouraged to share their perspectives in the comments below 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

Today’s Weather and Morning Commute Report Cold, seasonal winter weather is setting the tone across the Quinte and Quinte West region this morning. Temperatures remain below freezing with a mix of snow and cloudy skies, while conditions will be quiet generaly, drivers should expect typical winter road surfaces in some of the more rural areas. Winds may be brisk at times, adding a chill and occasionally reducing visibility in open stretches. 🚗 Morning Commute Update Highway 401 Traffic along Highway 401 through Quinte and Quinte West is moving steadily this morning. There are no reported closures, major collisions, or significant lane restrictions  affecting the corridor at this time. Road surfaces may be wet or lightly slushy in spots, particularly on on-ramps, off-ramps, bridges, and overpasses. Overall, delays are not expected, but drivers should continue to use caution. Highway 62 Highway 62 is open and passable with no reported incidents or closures  this morning. Conditions appear typical for winter driving, with the potential for slick patches in shaded or elevated areas. Traffic volumes are light to moderate, and no delays are currently impacting travel. Highway 37 Highway 37 is also seeing normal traffic flow  with no active disruptions reported. Drivers may encounter damp or icy sections in isolated areas, especially early in the morning, but there are no known delays or blockages  at this time. Highway 2 From Trenton to Belleville Highway 2 is also seeing light traffic with no issues being reported. Drivers could see slippery sections develop in underutilized areas, especially early in the morning, but there are no known obstructions. At this hour, the Quinte and Quinte West commute remains calm and manageable across Highway 401, Highway 62, Highway 37 and Highway 2. 🚦 What Drivers Should Know While the commute is running smoothly across major routes this morning, winter conditions can change quickly. Motorists are encouraged to drive to conditions, allow extra time where possible, and remain alert for changing road surfaces as temperatures fluctuate through the day. Please share this report with others so they know what to prepare for this morning as winter conditions can often be unpredictable. Road conditions can change at any moment, if you hear of anything please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com and let us know 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

Update (8:20 p.m.): Highway 7 has been fully reopened following the collision that happened earlier this evening UPDATE (7:32 p.m.): Highway 7 in Marmora is now fully closed at Hastings Avenue to all traffic in both directions. Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes and avoid the area if possible. Earlier this evening, a travel advisory was issued after a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian along Highway 7 in Marmora. At that time, the roadway was partially closed, with transport trucks restricted while passenger vehicles were permitted to pass through with caution. Traffic lanes were reduced and delays were reported as emergency crews responded. With the highway now fully closed, drivers should expect continued disruptions while the situation is managed. Road Safety Reminder Situations like this highlight the importance of patience and caution on busy roadways. Drivers are reminded to slow down, stay attentive, and watch for pedestrians, especially in areas with limited visibility or active traffic controls. Respecting closures and directions from emergency personnel helps keep everyone safer during active incidents. Please share this notice with others so they know about the road closure in the area. Further updates will be shared as 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

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Changes to how school transportation routes are awarded in the region are prompting discussion among local operators and residents in the Quinte & Quinte West regions, after a recent procurement process resulted in contracts shifting away from locally owned transportation companies. In previous years, school bus services were largely provided by operators based within the community. This time, a formal competitive bidding process was used, and the outcome saw routes awarded to larger companies with operations based beyond the local area, including firms with parent ownership or headquarters located in; The United States, France, and Germany . Some local operators have said the process highlighted differences in scale rather than service delivery, noting that large organizations often have greater administrative capacity to navigate complex procurement requirements. Others have raised broader questions about how factors such as experience, safety history, and community presence are weighed when decisions of this size are made. School transportation plays a significant role in daily life across the region, supporting students, families, and local employment while covering a wide mix of rural and urban routes. Because of that, the change has led to conversations not only about efficiency and cost, but also about long-term accountability, local economic impact, and the value of maintaining community-based services. As public institutions continue to review how services are awarded and delivered, this situation remains part of a broader discussion about balancing competitive procurement with local involvement. As this conversation continues, community input remains important — what do you think? 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

Image Courtesy of: Ontario Provincial Police - East Region Update: As of 11:39 am they have both been located safe. The OPP would like to thank everyone for sharing the appeal and for their assistance. The Ontario Provincial Police  Bancroft Detachment is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing woman and a young child. Police are seeking information on 21-year-old Angel Rodgers  and 18-month-old Elizabeth Liverance , who were last seen on Friday, December 19, 2025 , at approximately 12:00 p.m. , in Clavering , within the Township of Georgian Bluffs . Angel Rodgers is described as being 5’2” (157 cm)  with a medium build , shoulder-length dyed red hair , and blue eyes .Elizabeth Liverance, who is 18 months old , is described as having red, wavy hair  and blue eyes . At this time, police are asking anyone who may have seen Angel or Elizabeth, or who has any information that could assist in locating them , to come forward. Even details that may seem small or insignificant could help investigators better understand where they may have gone. The Ontario Provincial Police can be reached at 1-888-310-1122 . Members of the public are asked to reference file number E251699718  when calling. How You Can Help Missing person cases can be deeply concerning for families, friends, and the broader community. Police remind residents that sharing verified information and remaining attentive can play a meaningful role in helping bring loved ones home safely. Community awareness and compassion are often critical during situations like this. If you have any information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the police. 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

Content Advisory: This article contains references to an alleged domestic incident that may be distressing for some readers. Reader discretion is advised. | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Belleville Police responded to a reported domestic disturbance at a residence in the city’s west end on the evening of December 17. Police say officers were called to the address at approximately 6:52 pm after witnesses reported hearing a disturbance. Witnesses also told police they observed a male striking a female as the parties exited the residence. As a result of the investigation, a 29 year old Belleville man was located, arrested, and charged with assault. He was later released on an Undertaking with conditions, including not communicating with the female involved and not attending her residence. Shortly after, at approximately 12:45 am on December 18, Belleville Police received another report indicating the same male had returned to the residence, allegedly breaching the conditions of his release. Police arrested the male once again and charged him with two counts of failure to comply with an Undertaking. He was held in custody after the 2nd call to wait for a bail hearing. Police remind the public that domestic violence is a serious issue that can affect individuals and families across the community. Disturbances may not always be visible from the outside, and reports from witnesses can play an important role in helping police respond and intervene. Anyone experiencing or witnessing domestic violence is encouraged to seek help when it is safe to do so. Community awareness, early reporting, and accessing support services can help prevent further harm and ensure those affected are not facing these situations alone. Community Awareness & Support Incidents like this can be difficult to read about, and for some, they may reflect personal experiences. Community awareness and speaking up can play an important role in keeping people safe. If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic violence, it’s important to remember that help is available and that you are not alone. 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 If you would like to advertise with us, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

The City of Belleville has announced upcoming changes to Belleville Transit that will affect riders beginning in January 2026. The updates include fare adjustments taking effect January 1, followed by route timing changes scheduled to begin January 5. Accordingto the City, the changes are intended to address operating costs while improving service reliability and better matching rider demand across the transit system. Fare Changes Taking Effect January 1, 2026 Several fare adjustments will come into effect at the start of the new year: Adult monthly passes will increase from $80 to $90 All January paper passes will be sold at the new rate and will be valid from January 1 to January 31 BTAP monthly passes purchased electronically or loaded onto a reloadable card will remain at the $80 rate until 11:59 p.m. on December 31 and will be valid for 30 days once activated Adult single-ride tickets will increase from $3.25 to $4 Concession monthly passes for seniors, children under 12, and riders with disabilities will increase from $75 to $85 Concession single-ride tickets will increase from $3.25 to $3.75 Route Timing Changes Begin January 5, 2026 In addition to fare adjustments, Belleville Transit has announced several route timing changes that will take effect January 5. City officials say the updates are designed to improve service reliability and better meet rider demand. Planned changes include: Routes 3 and 4 will see faster turnaround times Routes 1 and 7 will operate with more consistent timings seven days a week Route 2 will receive an additional bus to help accommodate higher passenger volumes Community Perspective Public transit plays an important role in Belleville, particularly for residents who rely on it for work, school, medical appointments, and daily errands. As with many changes to public services, reactions across the community may vary. Some riders may welcome efforts to improve reliability and capacity, while others may have concerns about affordability or how the changes affect their daily routines. Understanding the full impact of these updates requires hearing from the people who use the system most. Have Your Say! Small Town News is inviting Belleville residents and transit riders to share what they think about the upcoming changes . How will the fare increases affect your daily travel? Do the route timing changes meet your needs as a rider? Are there additional transit improvements you would like to see? Residents who wish to provide direct feedback can contact Belleville Transit . More information on fares, passes, and route updates is available through the official Belleville Transit Website. Readers are also encouraged to share their opinions in the comments section to help reflect a wide range of community perspectives. 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| Ontario Provincial Police say a months-long investigation has led to the arrest of three individuals connected to a series of commercial break-ins that impacted communities across eastern Ontario, including the Quinte West area. Police say the break-ins began in July and continued through September, with convenience stores being the primary targets. Investigators allege the suspects waited until businesses had closed for the night, forced their way inside, and stole items such as cigarettes and lottery tickets, which were later cashed. In total, 20 commercial break-ins were reported across multiple jurisdictions, including: Quinte West, Leeds, Grenville, Russell County, and Lennox and Addington areas 8 incidents Kingston 5 incidents Ottawa 3 incidents Brockville 2 incidents Cornwall 2 incidents The investigation was led by the OPP East Region Community Street Crime Unit, working in collaboration with Kingston Police, Brockville Police Service, Cornwall Police Service, Ottawa Police Service, and several OPP detachments. As a result of the investigation, arrest warrants were issued in late October 2025 for three individuals who were already in custody in another jurisdiction at the time. On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the three males: Karoly Csombok, age 27 Ferenc Kiss, age 28 Norbert Szeles, age 20 all from the Greater Toronto Area, were transferred to eastern Ontario and formally arrested. Police say the accused are facing a combined total of 390 charges. Those charges include multiple counts of break and enter, conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, possession of break-in tools, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, theft over $5,000, theft of a vehicle, theft under $5,000, theft under $5,000 from a vehicle, trafficking in stolen goods over $5,000, disguise with intent, mischief under $5,000, and failure to comply with a release order. Police say the three accused remain in custody at this time 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

As our region heads into a stretch of warmer weather later this week , residents are being encouraged to take extra care around frozen waterways and to stay off the ice altogether . Daytime temperatures are expected to rise above the freezing mark on Wednesday and Thursday , with milder conditions potentially continuing into Friday . While this may feel like a brief pause in winter, it can quickly create unsafe and unpredictable ice conditions  on lakes, rivers, ponds, and creeks throughout the area. Ice that once seemed solid can weaken rapidly as temperatures rise. In many cases, there are no clear warning signs . Areas near shorelines, moving water, and runoff are often the first to deteriorate, even when the rest of the surface appears unchanged. A Community Safety Reminder This is a moment for neighbours to look out for one another. Whether it’s children playing nearby, pets wandering close to shore, or adults considering recreational activities, the safest choice during changing conditions is to avoid the ice entirely . Residents are encouraged to: Stay off the ice , even if it appears solid Keep children well away from frozen waterways Keep pets off the ice and away from shorelines Avoid shoreline edges , which are often the first areas to weaken A Note for Pet Owners Pets are especially vulnerable during periods of thaw. Animals may not recognize weakened ice and can easily venture into dangerous areas. Keeping pets leashed and away from frozen waterways during warmer weather can help prevent emergencies before they happen. Conditions Can Change Quickly When temperatures fluctuate above and below zero, ice strength can change from day to day or even hour to hour. Warmer daytime highs, overnight melting, rain, and wind can all contribute to unsafe conditions, even if colder weather returns later. Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather reports  and use caution when spending time near lakes and rivers over the coming days. Looking Out for Each Other Community safety often comes down to small choices. A reminder to a friend, keeping kids and pets at a safe distance, or choosing to turn back can make a meaningful difference. Staying off the ice during periods of warming helps reduce risk and keeps everyone safer as winter continues. Please share this reminder so others remember, when in doubt, staying off the ice is the safest choice. 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

Issued at 12:25 am | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | #2 Update: As of 1:51 am, the shelter-in-place advisory near Jamieson St. East and Louisa St. in Tweed has been lifted . Central Hastings OPP have resumed regular patrols after taking one individual into custody . There is no ongoing threat  to public safety, and no other suspects are being sought. The police investigation is ongoing, and no further details will be released to the public at this time. #1 Update: As of 1:30 am, the Shelter-In-Place Order remains in effect, and roads in the immediate area have been closed Central Hastings OPP is asking members of the public in the immediate area of Jamieson Street East and Louisa Street in Tweed  to shelter in place  as officers respond to an ongoing incident. According to police, officers are responding to a disturbance involving an armed individual  who is currently contained and surrounded within a building . The situation remains active as police continue their response.

(City of Kawartha Lakes, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have launched a formal investigation into a fatal two-vehicle collision that occurred on Highway 35 in Manvers Township late Saturday morning. Emergency crews were called to the scene just north of Ballyduff Road at approximately 11:00 a.m. The collision involved a passenger vehicle and a cargo van. Police have confirmed that the driver and sole occupant of the passenger vehicle, a 63-year-old resident of Lindsay, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the cargo van was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. As part of the formal investigation, the OPP’s Technical Collision Investigators and Reconstruction Unit attended the scene to examine evidence and determine the circumstances leading up to the collision. The cause has not yet been determined. A Message to the Community All of us at Small Town News extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones impacted by this tragic incident. Fatal collisions affect not only families but entire communities, and many residents are left with questions and grief following such events. Police Request Public Assistance OPP are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details are available at this time. 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

Residents across Trent Hills are being asked to weigh in on the municipality’s 2026 Draft Municipal Budget, which proposes a municipal tax increase that will be felt per $100,000 of property assessment. According to the draft budget presented to Council on December 18, 2025, municipal taxes are proposed to rise by $42.76 for every $100,000 of assessed property value. This represents a 4.63% increase at the assessment level, applying to municipal taxes only. County of Northumberland and education taxes are set separately and are not included in this figure. What the Increase Looks Like for Residents Municipal taxes in Trent Hills aren’t charged as a flat amount per household. Instead, they’re based on property assessment, meaning the increase scales with the value of a home or property. In simple terms: For every $100,000 of assessment, municipal taxes would rise by $42.76 Homes with higher assessed values would see a larger dollar increase Homes with lower assessed values would see a smaller increase, but at the same rate The municipality also notes that each 1% change in taxation equals approximately $173,000 in revenue across the community, helping show how assessment-based increases add up overall. Why Taxes Are Going Up The draft budget shows that overall municipal spending is proposed to increase from $27,530,749 in 2025 to $30,349,986 in 2026, an increase of $2,819,238. Some of the main cost pressures behind that increase include: Higher day-to-day operating costs, which are rising by $839,254 Employee wages increasing by $360,111 and employee benefits increasing by $271,238 OPP policing costs increasing by $280,864 Capital spending funded by taxes increasing by $536,699, a 23.74% jump Continued impacts from inflation, infrastructure needs, and required municipal planning work To help cover these costs, total municipal taxation revenue is proposed to rise by $1,109,086, moving from $17,325,999 to $18,435,085, an overall increase of 6.40%. Why This Matters to Households Because the increase is tied to assessment, there’s no single dollar figure that applies to every resident. Still, municipal taxes are a fixed cost of owning a home, and even moderate increases can be felt more sharply when combined with rising expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, fuel, and childcare. For families, seniors, and residents on fixed incomes, how and when these increases happen matters. Council Review and What Happens Next Under Ontario’s Strong Mayor Powers, Council has a limited window to amend the draft budget. If no changes are made within that timeframe, the budget will be deemed adopted. Final approval is expected in early January 2026. Have Your Say! Before the budget is finalized, Trent Hills residents are encouraged to share their opinion, especially on how the $42.76 increase per $100,000 of assessment affects their household. Residents can take part by: Commenting publicly on the budget discussion Filling out the municipality’s online budget feedback form Contacting their Trent Hills councillor from their ward directly to ask questions, raise concerns, or express support Municipal budgets shape local services and household costs, and public input can still influence final decisions. Questions for Community Members Is a $42.76 increase per $100,000 of assessment manageable for households in Trent Hills? Do the proposed spending priorities justify that increase? Are there areas where costs could be reduced or phased in? Residents are encouraged to make their voices heard before the budget is finalized. 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