(Peterborough, ON) The Peterborough Police Service has laid charges in connection with two separate single-vehicle collisions that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Hunter Street East Collision At approximately 4:30 a.m., police responded to reports of a collision in the area of Hunter Street East and Driscoll Terrace. Officers arrived to find that a vehicle had struck a parked car and overturned. Police say the 18-year-old driver showed signs of impairment. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Hunter Street was closed for about an hour while the vehicles were cleared from the roadway. As a result of the investigation, the 18-year-old Peterborough man was charged with: Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs Novice Driver B.A.C. above zero (Highway Traffic Act) Careless Driving (Highway Traffic Act) Fail to notify change of address – license (Highway Traffic Act) The accused received an automatic 90-day license suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment. He was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in court on October 28, 2025. Monaghan Road Collision Earlier the same morning, at around 1:40 a.m., officers were called to the area of Monaghan Road and Parkhill Road after receiving reports of a vehicle in the ditch. Police located a car with front-end damage positioned facing the wrong direction on Monaghan Road. After speaking with the driver, officers determined he was impaired and learned his license had been previously cancelled. A 22-year-old Peterborough man was arrested and charged with: Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) Drive motor vehicle – no licence (Highway Traffic Act) The accused was issued an automatic 90-day license suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment. He was released on an undertaking and is also scheduled to appear in court on October 28, 2025. The Peterborough Police thanks anyone who submits a tip for impaired driving. Driving impaired kills. 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 Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(Belleville, ON) Belleville Police have charged 31-year-old Shelby Roddick after multiple residents reported a man yelling at children in the city’s west end over the weekend. Officers responded promptly and found Roddick still shouting when they arrived. He was arrested without incident and is now facing charges of causing a disturbance and breaching probation conditions. Police say he has been released under conditions and is scheduled to appear in court next month. The incident has sparked concern among local families, highlighting the importance of vigilance and quick reporting to authorities. Neighbours have praised both the residents who reported the behaviour and the officers who responded to ensure the community’s 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’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 Business Spotlight If you want to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

The scent of fair food, the sound of children’s laughter and the rumble of engines filled the air this past weekend as the Madoc Fair celebrated its 120th year. From Sept. 12–14, residents and visitors streamed through the gates for a mix of tradition and entertainment; from agricultural showcases and truck pulls to midway rides, live performances, and community contests. The fairgrounds opened Friday at 4 p.m. with the vendor hall and midway rides, before crowds gathered for the official opening ceremony at 6 p.m. Speeches were delivered by Madoc Mayor Tom Deline, local Conservative MP Shelby Kramp, and Heather Owens, president of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies. “This is my last local fair for this year and I am glad it is in my hometown of Madoc, and seeing the community gather for the 120th celebration for the local fair board,” Kramp told the crowd. Cheers erupted when organizers announced that visitors had traveled not only from across Ontario, including Toronto, but even from as far away as North Carolina. Following the national anthem, the action picked up quickly as drivers met on the track to kick off the truck and trailer pulls at 6:30 p.m., and is an annual friendly competition that brings the community together, with friends getting to have bragging rights until the next year. The truck and trailer pulls is a motorsport competition where powerfully modified vehicles drag a heavy weight-shifting sled, also known as the Iron Judge during the competition, down a 300 meter dirt track. The Iron Judge starts off with a low weight and shifts the weight closer to the driver while it’s being pulled. Drivers aimed to get a full pull, or the full 300 meters or surpassing, while displaying old and new trucks and farming tractors. Some of the crowd favourites were pull tractors; tractors that were made for the purpose of pulling heavy-weighted equipment. Saturday brought a full day of events, starting with the exhibit hall at 8 a.m. and a saddle horse show at 9 a.m. The midway rides opened at 11 a.m., alongside livestock competitions including the poultry, chicken and duck show and the sheep and rabbit show inside the barn hall. Crowds gathered for axe throwing demonstrations by County Axes, which ran throughout the day, while children lined up for balloon animals from County Balloons between noon and 4 p.m. Entertainment included Darling Darling’s Fiddle Country Hoop Show by the North Fire Circus Company, featuring performer Jessica Clayton. Clayton wowed the crowd with her hula hoop tricks, even inviting Madoc resident Nathan Larouche to join her on stage. Vendors also played a large part in the weekend, including local author and illustrator Jennifer Iacono. Iacono, who grew up as a military base kid and now lives in Hastings County, was selling her children’s book The Monsters No Grown Ups See. Written 27 years ago but only published this year with her own illustrations, the book highlights her passion for storytelling. She also showcased handmade earrings and keychains, many crafted from recycled toys. “The keychains, I recycle toys for a lot of them to keep stuff out of the landfills,” Iacono said. By evening, it was time for the kids’ Power Wheels derby, where children drove toy cars around the ring, popping balloons in a lighthearted competition. At 6:30 p.m., the main event, the demolition derby, roared to life, featuring 44 vehicles, including cars and trucks. The miniature feature for the derby was won by Mike McGrain, drawing cheers from the packed grandstands. Sunday carried the fair into its final day, beginning again at 8 a.m. with vendors and a saddle horse show at 9 a.m. At 10 a.m., axe throwing returned alongside a petting zoo, while the Clare Downey Memorial Ring hosted draft, commercial, light, and miniature horse shows. The cattle show also began at 10 a.m. in the cattle ring. The midway opened once more at 11 a.m., with rides running until the fair closed at 2 p.m. Families enjoyed attractions such as the Ballistic, Wizzer, and the Little Blue Train roller coaster, alongside classics like the merry-go-round, swings, funhouse super slide and inflatable games. Younger children gravitated toward the bouncy castle and toddler rides, while the midway games; duck pond, fish pond, darts, and the hi-striker bell game drew players of all ages hoping to win stuffed animals. By Sunday afternoon, as the last rides wound down and the fairgrounds began to empty, organizers reflected on a weekend that blended community tradition with modern attractions, drawing visitors from near and far. For many, the 120th Madoc Fair was more than just an event; it was a chance to celebrate the small-town spirit that has kept the fair thriving for more than a century. 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 proudly independent, free from corporate or political influence, and dedicated to delivering truthful, fact-based reporting. Your donation helps sustain not only our independence but also the work of our writers who research, report, and bring these stories to life. 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(Belleville, ON) Hyacinth RN and her husband, the team behind Finn Excavating, are asking the community for help after their dog was recently struck in a hit-and-run in Belleville. They are urging anyone who may have seen the incident or captured it on home or dash cameras to come forward. The couple shared a statement: "Looking for a car that just hit my dog on Paul Street. It drove over him about 10 feet and just kept driving. This happened around 9:40 PM. If anyone has any information, please contact me at 343-261-6862." While dog owners are legally responsible for incidents involving their pets in Ontario, drivers are also obligated to remain at the scene and report to police, as well as their insurance if damage or injuries are expected to exceed $2,000. As they did not slow down or stop it is possible the dog was intentionally hit and if proven would make them liable for any medical bills arising from the incident. The couple hopes that community vigilance can help identify the driver and ensure their dog receives care. Even small pieces of information can make a big difference in helping their beloved pet recover and preventing similar incidents in the future. It is heartbreaking when a furry family member is hurt, or lost 💔 Please share and help this family get the closure that they need 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 Business Spotlight If you wish to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Update, 10:30pm: The road has fully reopened and traffic seems to be moving as usual. Update, 9:45pm: Traffic seems to have started flowing again although at a slower rate, please plan ahead of travelling through the area. Traffic on Highway 401 is currently at a standstill as of 9:21pm in the westbound lanes going from Trenton to Toronto near the Trenton OnRoute, due to a multi-vehicle collision earlier this evening involving 4 different vehicles. Drivers are experiencing major delays as emergency crews remain on scene. Police, paramedics, and fire services are working to clear the roadway and ensure the safety of everyone involved. No details have been released yet about injuries or the cause of the collision. Motorists should expect extended delays and are encouraged to consider alternate routes if possible. This is a friendly reminder to drive with care and patience. Please share this update to help keep others informed and safe on the road. 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 Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Rally at Loyalist College - Taken By Small Town News Staff (Belleville, Ontario, CA) Yesterday, September 11, 2025, support staff at Loyalist College organized and rallied out front of the campus , joining thousands across Ontario in a province-wide strike. As seen in the video above, staff lined the entrance with signs, standing together to make their message clear, support staff are essential to the college system, and they are demanding to be heard. We went down to the campus to see the action firsthand. By the time we arrived, a strong group of staff were gathered with signs in hand, joined by faculty members in solidarity. The sense of unity was evident, as was the determination of staff to have their concerns addressed. The strike follows a practice rally held the evening before to build momentum. Despite the walkout, Loyalist College has kept campuses open, and classes are continuing. Students and visitors have been advised to expect delays at campus entrances and some disruptions to services, including limited library access. At the heart of the strike are three main issues, job security, fair wages, and funding priorities . Support staff say they have faced shrinking ranks, stagnant wages that lag behind inflation, and uncertainty about future positions. They are also concerned about government money being directed into private training through the Skills Development Fund, instead of strengthening the public college system. On the other side, the College Employer Council (CEC) , which negotiates on behalf of Ontario’s 24 public colleges, argues that some of the union’s proposals would create significant financial strain. They emphasize the need to balance budgets while maintaining sustainable operations across all campuses. Representatives stress that compromises will be necessary to keep the college system functioning effectively, union leaders counter that their demands are fair and reasonable, highlighting the essential role of support staff and the pressures they face in their day-to-day work. During our visit, it was clear that the staff feel a strong sense of pride in their work. They are the backbone of Loyalist, supporting admissions, IT, labs, student services, and daily operations. Without them, the college experience for students would not function as smoothly, and programs, access to services, and day-to-day campus life could face disruption if the strike continues. The question now is not only whether union leaders and the CEC can reach an agreement, but also what this moment means for the future of Ontario’s public colleges and for the students who depend on them. What do you think is next for our college system? 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

(Cobourg, ON) The Town of Cobourg Roads Department has announced an upcoming road closure on D’Arcy Street due to planned construction work at the CN railway crossing. Beginning Sunday, September 14 at 8 p.m., D’Arcy Street will be closed from Kerr Street East to Spencer Street East. The closure will remain in effect until Friday, September 19 at 9 p.m. and will impact both vehicles and pedestrians. This full closure is necessary to allow construction crews to complete the required work safely and efficiently. The Town of Cobourg thanks residents and visitors for their patience and understanding during this time and apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the temporary disruption. Please spread the word so others can plan around the upcoming road closure 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

(Marmora, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Municipality of Marmora and Lake has updated its fire safety measures. Effective noon on Thursday, September 11, 2025, Interim Fire Chief officials announced that the Complete Fire Ban has now been reduced to a Restricted Fire Ban. Under the Restricted Fire Ban, the following remain strictly prohibited at all times: ❌ Campfires ❌ Burn barrels ❌ Outdoor stoves ❌ Fireworks or flying lanterns The only exception is that small, contained fires for cooking or heat are permitted. These must be within an approved outdoor fireplace or fully contained enclosure not exceeding one metre in diameter. No burn permits will be issued while the restriction is in place. The municipality notes that the measure is temporary and will remain in effect until further notice. Only the Fire Department has the authority to lift the ban, and a public announcement will follow when conditions allow. 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) A local mother is speaking out after her son was struck by a vehicle while riding his scooter at the corner of Sidney Street and Bell Boulevard. According to Bechard, the vehicle involved was a blue car that left the scene immediately after the collision. She says her son was thrown over the hood of the car and left on the road, while his brand-new scooter, something he had worked hard to purchase, was badly damaged. Bechard is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. She expressed frustration and disappointment toward the driver for failing to stop and take responsibility. “I want to make them responsible for their actions,” Bechard said, adding that she hopes karma catches up with the individual who left her son behind. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information about the vehicle is encouraged to contact the Belleville Police Service at 613-966-0882. 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

(Quinte West, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The City of Quinte West is advising residents and commuters of a scheduled road closure that will take place tomorrow, Thursday, September 11, 2025. Fish and Game Club Road will be closed between Frankford-Stirling Road and Flyboy Road from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. to allow for a culvert replacement project. Municipal crews will be carrying out the work as part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades aimed at keeping local roadways safe and reliable. Officials are encouraging motorists to plan ahead and use alternative routes during the closure period. Local traffic should expect some delays and detours until the work is complete. The city has stated that the road will reopen immediately after the project is finished, and updates will be provided if timelines change. The temporary shutdown is one of several road maintenance efforts happening across Quinte West this season, reflecting the municipality’s focus on improving drainage systems and preserving road conditions before the winter months. Residents who frequently use Fish and Game Club Road are asked to give themselves extra travel time tomorrow and stay alert for posted signs and detour instructions in the area. Please share this article with your friends and family so they can also be aware of the upcoming road closure 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 Business Spotlight If you want to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(Barrie, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Yesterday, the Mayor of Barrie, Ontario, formally declared a state of emergency in response to escalating public safety concerns linked to homeless encampments throughout the city. Mayor Alex Nuttall stated that the municipality has “reached its limit,” noting that while the city is prepared to assist individuals who actively seek support, it cannot condone the continuation of street encampments marked by disorder and addiction. According to the mayor, the encampments have created health hazards, environmental damage, and deterioration of municipal infrastructure. The decision to invoke emergency powers followed a police investigation that connected one encampment to a recent double homicide. Authorities also reported the discovery of crossbows, a starter pistol, and evidence of arson at the same site, underscoring the severity of the situation. Environmental risks were also cited, with elevated levels of E. coli detected in a nearby pond that drains into a public beach. City councillors previously expressed concern about escalating cleanup costs, infrastructure harm, and the growing risks associated with the encampments. The declaration grants the city authority to establish a task force, retain specialized contractors and consultants, and apply its encampment protocols with greater force. Public areas such as parks, sidewalks, trails, and boulevards are now formally included under the order. Two large encampments have already been removed, and preparations are underway to dismantle approximately 20 more, which are estimated to shelter around 600 individuals. City officials confirmed that shelter beds and related resources are available for those willing to relocate, promising that enforcement will be accompanied by a compassionate approach. Mayor Nuttall has also requested financial assistance from the provincial government, though he indicated that Barrie is prepared to act independently if required. He highlighted recent provincial legislation that strengthens municipal and policing authority to address encampments and increases penalties for public drug use. Ontario has allocated $75.5 million to municipalities to address these issues, including $50 million for affordable housing and $20 million for shelter expansion. The province has also introduced 28 Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) hubs, including one in Barrie, to provide mental health and addiction support. Additionally, Simcoe County has received more than $63 million through a homelessness prevention program launched in 2022. 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

The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a driver involved in a fail-to-remain collision involving a child. On Monday, August 25, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., a 6-year-old boy was struck while crossing at the traffic lights on Chemong Road, near the entrances to the Shoppers Drug Mart and Walmart plazas. The child was with his father at the time. Suspect Description The driver is described as: White female Slim build Shoulder-length brown hair Wearing a brown tank top at the time of the incident The vehicle involved is believed to be a grey, four-door Kia Optima (model years 2010–2015). Public Appeal Investigators with the Traffic Management Unit have obtained photos of both the vehicle and driver and are appealing to the public for help identifying the individual. Photos Provided by the Peterborough Police Service Photos Provided by the Peterborough Police Service Anyone with information about the incident or the individual's identity is asked to contact the Peterborough Police Traffic Management Unit at 705-876-1122 x289, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.stopcrimehere.ca. Small Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com 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