A bomb threat in Quinte West forced the evacuation of several businesses Monday afternoon, drawing a large police response and raising concern in the community. The threat was reported at the Trenton Town Centre, a busy retail plaza on Dundas Street East. Shoppers and employees at nearby businesses, including Giant Tiger, were asked to leave the premises while police and emergency crews secured the area. Quinte West OPP, along with fire and EMS personnel, responded quickly to the scene. Officers conducted a sweep of the property, and traffic in the immediate area was briefly restricted to ensure public safety. By late afternoon, authorities confirmed that no threat was found and businesses were permitted to reopen. No injuries were reported, and police have not disclosed whether any suspects have been identified in connection to the incident. Although the situation was resolved without harm, officials emphasized that threats of this nature are taken seriously and can result in significant criminal charges. The investigation is ongoing. 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, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Labour negotiations between Ontario colleges and support staff have stalled, prolonging the ongoing strike that has disrupted campuses across the province. The College Employer Council (CEC), which represents Ontario’s 24 publicly funded colleges, says the talks collapsed after the Ontario Public Service Employees’ Union (OPSEU) bargaining team allegedly reversed course on key issues. According to the CEC, the two sides had been close to reaching a tentative deal following mediation sessions over the weekend. Proposed improvements included stronger safeguards around contracting out, new provisions to address technological change, wage increases, expanded bereavement leave, and compensation for on-call staff. However, just as an agreement seemed within reach, the CEC claims OPSEU altered its demands, introducing conditions that would require union approval for any contracted work and imposing new limits on collaborative projects. The CEC argues that such protections already exist under current agreements and that the changes would restrict colleges’ ability to adapt to evolving needs. Graham Lloyd, CEO of the CEC, criticized the move, saying it undermined progress made at the bargaining table. “Ultimatums and backtracking undo days of hard work,” Lloyd said. “Support staff deserve to know exactly what was offered, and we encourage the union to share our full proposal so members can judge for themselves.” The union has not yet issued a detailed public response to the CEC’s claims. With talks stalled, students and staff remain caught in the middle as campuses continue to feel the effects of the labour disruption. 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, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Image provided by Peterborough Police Update 9:00pm, September 28th: Landyn has been located safe and is on his way home The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the community’s help in locating 11-year-old Landyn, who has been reported missing. Landyn is described as a white male, standing approximately 4’2” tall with a slim build and weighing around 90 pounds. He has long dark brown hair. When last seen, he was wearing a black toque, a black Nike shirt, black and white shorts, and black Nike shoes. Police are urging anyone who may have seen Landyn or has information about his whereabouts to come forward immediately. Even the smallest detail could be helpful in ensuring his safe return. If you have information, please contact the Peterborough Police Service at 705-876-1122. This is a developing situation, and the community’s support can make all the difference. Please share this information and help bring Landyn 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

The nationwide Canada Post strike has reached a critical stage. Now entering its fourth day, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and the federal government remain locked in a dispute that goes well beyond wages and benefits. At the centre is the question; What will the future of Canada’s postal service look like, and how much change are Canadians willing to accept? Why the Strike Began 📝 On September 25, CUPW launched a national strike in response to reforms backed by the federal government that would gradually eliminate most door-to-door delivery over the next decade. Ottawa argues that Canada Post, facing years of losses and declining letter mail volumes, cannot continue in its current form. The proposed plan would convert around four million households to community mailboxes, reduce delivery frequency, close some rural post offices, and give Canada Post greater flexibility in pricing and operations. Union leaders strongly oppose the reforms, warning of widespread job losses, weaker public service, and a lack of proper consultation. CUPW has described the changes as “an attack on public service and workers.” The Immediate Impact 💥 With postal operations halted, Canadians are already feeling the disruption: Mail and parcels suspended: Canada Post has stopped accepting or delivering new mail, with limited exceptions for socio-economic cheques and live animal shipments. Backlog building: Even once the strike ends, Canada Post cautions that clearing accumulated mail could take weeks. Business impact: Small businesses and online retailers, many reliant on Canada Post, are reporting costly delays and lost sales. Some have shifted to private couriers, though often at higher expense. Public frustration: While many sympathize with postal workers, others are losing patience as bills, packages, and critical documents remain stuck. More Than a Labour Dispute 📣 The strike highlights deeper, long-standing issues: Changing demand: Letter mail has been in decline for decades, challenging the sustainability of universal home delivery. Financial pressure: As a Crown corporation, Canada Post is expected to operate without taxpayer funding, yet repeated shortfalls have raised concerns about its long-term viability. Job security: The union fears thousands of positions could be lost as restructuring and automation reshape operations. Public trust: For many Canadians, especially seniors and rural residents, home delivery remains an essential service. Political and Legal Pressure ⚖️ The federal government has urged both sides back to the bargaining table but has not yet imposed back-to-work legislation. Mediation is expected to become increasingly important as the strike continues. If negotiations fail to progress, Ottawa could step in more directly, though past government interventions in postal disputes have often left lasting divisions. What’s Next ⁉️ The outcome remains uncertain. Possible scenarios include a negotiated settlement with phased reforms, direct government intervention, or a prolonged standoff that risks wider economic consequences. For Canadians, the resolution will determine not only when mail resumes but also what kind of postal system the country will rely on in the years ahead. 👉 What do you think? The Canada Post strike affects households, businesses, and communities across the country in very different ways. Some see the reforms as necessary modernization, while others believe they undermine an essential public service. We’d like to hear your perspective, share your thoughts in the comments, or join the discussion on our social channels. 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, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

On the morning of September 25th, at approximately 9:20 a.m., Belleville Police officers on patrol downtown demonstrated their ongoing commitment to protecting the community. While carrying out their duties, officers observed two individuals engaged in the use of a controlled substance. With professionalism and diligence, police approached and placed both individuals under arrest, ensuring the safety of the surrounding area. A glass pipe containing 0.3 grams of methamphetamine was seized as evidence. During the investigation, officers also determined that one of the individuals was bound by a probation order. Thanks to the swift response of police, charges were laid and both parties were released with upcoming court dates in November. Hailey Lindsay , a 31-year-old Belleville resident, was charged with possession of methamphetamine. Josh Lemche , a 35-year-old man of no fixed address, was charged with possession of methamphetamine and breach of probation. This incident highlights the vigilance of local officers who work tirelessly to keep Belleville safe. Through daily patrols, enforcement of the law, and their dedication to duty, police continue to stand as guardians of the community. 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

Canada Post workers represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) walked off the job today in a nationwide strike  that is already bringing mail service to a halt across the country. The strike comes just hours after the federal government gave Canada Post the green light to move ahead with controversial restructuring plans. Why Are Workers on Strike? At the centre of the dispute are recommendations from the Industrial Inquiry Commission (IIC), which the federal government accepted earlier this week. Among the changes now on the table are: Converting millions of door-to-door addresses  to community mailboxes Allowing more frequent postage stamp price increases Relaxing 5-day delivery standards , which could mean fewer delivery days Lifting the moratorium on rural post-office closures CUPW argues these measures threaten good jobs, reduce accessibility for vulnerable Canadians, and put the long-term future of universal public mail service at risk. Union leaders say the strike was not taken lightly but that they felt they had no choice after what they describe as “a government attack on the public post office.” What the Strike Means for Canadians Effective immediately, mail and parcel delivery services are suspended nationwide. Everything from letters to online shopping orders will be affected. Rural communities, which often rely heavily on Canada Post, are expected to be hit hardest. This is also the second work stoppage in less than a year , raising concerns about the impact on small businesses and e-commerce sellers who depend on timely shipping. Economists warn the disruption could have ripple effects worth billions of dollars if it drags on. The Debate: Public Service vs. Structural Reform For the union, this fight is about protecting a public service from cutbacks and possible privatization. For the government, it’s about ensuring Canada Post adapts to financial realities and changing consumer habits. But what about Canadians? Many will understandably be frustrated by delays and missed packages. Others may share CUPW’s concerns about service cuts and rural accessibility. Have Your Say The strike raises questions that affect nearly every household in the country: Should Canada Post modernize by cutting back on door-to-door delivery and raising stamp prices, even if it means losing jobs? Or should the government invest more to keep traditional services alive, even at a cost to taxpayers? How do you think this strike should be resolved, through compromise, arbitration, or stronger government intervention? We want to hear your opinion. Do you support the strike, or do you think it’s time for Canada Post to move forward with reforms? Share your thoughts in the comments 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 Ontario government has announced its intention to ban automated speed-enforcement cameras across the province. The plan is to propose legislation, that once passed, would require municipalities to remove existing cameras and instead access a new provincial fund aimed at supporting alternative road-safety measures such as speed bumps, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, and roundabouts. The Provincial Government’s Position Premier Doug Ford has described speed cameras as a “cash grab,” arguing they place an unfair financial burden on drivers without significantly improving safety. His government has pointed to examples where cameras have issued tens of thousands of tickets, generating millions of dollars in fines. According to provincial figures, only a small percentage of Ontario’s municipalities currently use the devices. The Concerns Raised Opponents of the ban, including the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and road-safety advocates, maintain that speed cameras are effective in reducing dangerous driving. A study in Toronto school zones reported a 45% decrease in speeding after cameras were installed. Municipal leaders, including Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, have expressed concern that removing cameras could put pedestrians, cyclists, and children at greater risk. What Comes Next? If the legislation is introduced and passed in the upcoming session, municipalities would need to dismantle their programs and shift toward other traffic-calming measures using the promised provincial funding. Details of how much funding will be provided, and how it will be distributed, have not yet been confirmed. Your Turn! Do you believe Ontario should move forward with banning speed cameras, or should they remain part of the province’s road-safety strategy? Share your opinion! Should fines from speed cameras continue, or is it time for new approaches? 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 wish to advertise with us email us at smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(Belleville, ON) Belleville Police say a man is facing several charges after officers responded to two separate calls on September 23 that were later determined to be connected. The first call came in around 12:15 p.m. when police were notified of a theft at a business on Bell Boulevard. According to investigators, video surveillance showed a male suspect taking items before leaving the store. The footage also showed a female passenger accompanying him in the vehicle. Roughly 40 minutes later, at 12:56 p.m., police received a separate report of a possible impaired driver in the downtown core. Officers attended the area and found a vehicle parked in a lot. Police say the licence plate on the vehicle matched the one involved in the earlier theft on Bell Boulevard. When officers approached the vehicle, they spoke with the male driver. Police report that the man appeared to be impaired, and officers also noticed glass pipes inside the vehicle. Following further investigation, the driver was arrested. The accused, a 49-year-old Belleville resident, is charged with theft under $5,000, operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol and drugs, driving a commercial vehicle without a valid licence, and failing to surrender a vehicle permit. Police confirmed the man was later released on an Undertaking with conditions. He is scheduled to appear in court in November to answer to the charges. Belleville Police continue to remind the public to report suspected impaired drivers immediately by calling 911, as timely information can help prevent collisions and assist with ongoing investigations. 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 wish to advertise with us email us at smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(Quinte West, ON) The Quinte West Professional Firefighters Association, Local 1328, has launched its 34th annual Coats for Kids initiative, continuing a long-standing effort to help families prepare for the winter season. The campaign gathers new and gently worn coats, snow pants, hats, and mittens for children and teens up to 17 years old. In 2024, more than 550 coats found their way to local families, a number the association hopes to meet or exceed this year. How the Public Can Help Community members can support Coats for Kids in several ways: Donate clothing: Drop off new or gently used winter items at Quinte West Fire Station 1, 49 Dixon Drive in Trenton. Make a monetary donation: Contributions are used to purchase brand-new coats, snow pants, and accessories in sizes that are often harder to fill. Spread the word: Share the campaign with friends, family, and co-workers to help reach more children in need. Accessing the Program Families who would like to access the program are asked to call Quinte West Fire and Emergency Services at 613-392-6557 to arrange an appointment. Proof of guardianship is required, and children should attend to ensure proper fitting. Clothing pick-up will be available at 85 Marmora Street, next to Fire Station 1, on the following dates: Monday, October 27, from 6 – 9 p.m. Tuesday, November 4, from 6 – 9 p.m. Saturday, November 8, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Thursday, November 13, from 6 – 9 p.m. A Tradition of Giving First launched in 1991, Coats for Kids has become one of the firefighters’ most recognized community programs, supported each year by residents, local businesses, unions, and service groups. Association President Jay Coxwell expressed gratitude for the ongoing support, saying: “Every child deserves to be warm through the winter. This program continues to succeed because of the community’s generosity, and we’re thankful for that support year after year.” For more than three decades, Coats for Kids has shown how the people of Quinte West come together, ensuring no child faces the cold without proper winter clothing. 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

(Belleville, ON) A stolen e-bike, one of a family’s main sources of transportation, was taken on a joyride through city streets late last night by an unknown individual before ending in a police pursuit and crash. Police say the e-bike was reported stolen earlier in the evening. According to witnesses, the rider was seen speeding and weaving through traffic, ignoring traffic signals and stop signs. When officers attempted to intervene, the suspect refused to stop, prompting a brief chase. The pursuit ended in a crash, leaving the e-bike heavily damaged. Police confirmed the rider’s identity is not yet known and charges are pending, including possession of stolen property and dangerous operation. The family has been left upset by the damage caused to their e-bike, which they relied on as one of their main sources of transportation. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Belleville Police Service non-emergency line at 613-966-0882, or Crime Stoppers at 613-969-8477. 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

(Brighton, ON) The Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating a break and enter at a multi-unit residence in Brighton. On September 21, 2025, at approximately 8:40 p.m., officers responded to a report of a break and enter in progress on Meade Street. According to the caller, two individuals were attempting to enter the residence. Upon arrival, the suspects had already fled the scene. The OPP deployed the Canine Unit (K9) and Emergency Response Team (ERT) to assist in the search, but the individuals were not located. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) also attended to treat non-serious injuries sustained during the incident. The OPP Forensic Identification Services (IDENT) assisted in the ongoing investigation, which is being led by the Northumberland OPP Crime Unit. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Northumberland OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To report anonymously, individuals can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where eligible tipsters may receive a cash reward of up to $2,000. The related occurrence number is E251289075. 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

(Cobourg, ON) The Cobourg Police Service has confirmed an officer is recovering after being exposed to fentanyl during a warrant arrest on the evening of September 21. The officer was taken to Northumberland Hills Hospital, treated, and has since been released, they are expected to make a full recovery. The arrest occurred around 7:45 p.m. when officers identified a woman wanted on a bench warrant. The accused, 33-year-old Desiree Irwin of Cobourg, was taken into custody. During the arrest, one officer began to show signs of opioid exposure. A fellow officer acted quickly, administering naloxone, which helped stabilize the situation until paramedics arrived. Irwin faces several charges, including: Causing a disturbance Failing to comply with probation Failing to attend court Failing to attend for fingerprints Possession of a Schedule 1 substance (fentanyl) She was held in custody for a bail hearing. Chief of Police Paul VandeGraaf issued a statement emphasizing the dangers officers face, the importance of accountability for drug-related offences, and gratitude for the quick response that ensured the officer’s safety. “This incident is a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers our officers face daily. Thanks to the quick actions of our team, a potentially life-threatening situation was averted. We are grateful for the emergency service partners and the Northumberland Hills Hospital staff,” said Chief VandeGraaf. He reaffirmed the service’s commitment to disrupting the flow of illicit substances in the community and called on the justice system to hold offenders accountable through stricter bail hearings and strong conditions. The incident underscores both the risks posed by fentanyl and the dedication of frontline officers working to keep Cobourg safe. A huge thank you goes out to all our first responders on the front lines. 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 wish to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com