(Bracebridge, ON, Canada) Bracebridge OPP have opened a homicide investigation following the discovery of a body in a remote area off Hardy Lake Road on Monday, September 15, 2025. Police confirmed the victim as a 25-year-old man from West Nipissing. Out of respect for the grieving family and loved ones, authorities are not releasing the individual’s name at this time. Investigators are appealing to the public for assistance and are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have been in the Hardy Lake Road, Torrance, Bala, Wahta, or Gravenhurst areas between September 14 and 15. Dashcam recordings or information that may appear unrelated could still provide valuable leads. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bracebridge OPP at 1-888-310-1122, quoting occurrence number E251257737. Anonymous tips can also be shared through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submitted online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000. Any information could be extremely valuable, please share 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, Canada) Concerned citizens gathered outside City Hall today to demand better solutions for the city’s growing unhoused population. Several members of the vulnerable community joined organizers, who stressed a single message: something needs to be done. Ahead of the rally, the issue of unused public buildings was raised with Bay of Quinte MPP Tyler Allsopp , including the question: “These buildings have to be maintained — why are we not using them?”  Organizers pointed to abandoned schools across Belleville, many of which still have lights and heat running year-round, as a potential opportunity to create shelter or transitional housing. Among those speaking at the rally was community advocate Phyllis Coffman , who shared her journey of getting involved in helping vulnerable residents. She expressed deep concern for the current state of affairs and urged leaders to explore more compassionate and practical approaches. The rally highlighted the frustration many in the community feel as winter approaches and housing solutions remain limited. Organizers emphasized that with available resources already in place, Belleville has the opportunity to act swiftly and effectively. 📹 Exclusive Interview: Our full conversation with Phyllis Coffman will be featured in the video at the top of this article, where she goes into more detail about her work in the community and her hopes for change. 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 Cobourg Police Service is investigating a series of thefts from vehicles that occurred early in the morning on September 18 in the area of Fisher Street and McMurdo Drive. At approximately 5:20 a.m., a male suspect was captured on video surveillance entering multiple vehicles. Police say a white U-Haul van was seen following the suspect as he moved from vehicle to vehicle. Tools and other property were reported stolen from at least one vehicle during the incidents. The Cobourg Police Service is urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be provided directly to police or submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or visiting stopcrimehere.ca. Information shared through Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a cash reward. The investigation remains 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 email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(Campbellford, ON) A local family in Campbellford is asking for the community’s help in finding their missing cat, Purrnest Hemingway. Purrnest was last seen over the weekend near Hoards Station, just outside of Campbellford. His family says he is dearly missed, especially by the children. Tamara Foley shared the notice online, urging residents in the area to keep an eye out. A photo posted shows the grey-and-white cat, who is described as friendly and recognizable by his distinct appearance. A message accompanying the post asks that if anyone has seen Purrnest or may have taken him in, to please return him. “No questions asked,” the family emphasized. Anyone with information on Purrnest Hemingway’s whereabouts is asked to contact Tamara Foley via Facebook or by phone at 437-419-6346. Please share to help bring Purrnest home to his family and kiddos who are missing him dearly. 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

(South Frontenac, ON) Fire crews from across the region battled a fast-moving wildfire in South Frontenac Township on Thursday afternoon after a call came in at 1:11 p.m. The blaze, first reported near Hinchinbrook Road and Desert Lake Road, quickly spread across multiple sites and covered an estimated 10 to 15 acres. South Frontenac Fire and Rescue led the response with assistance from neighbouring municipalities. Crews worked aggressively to stop the fire’s advance and protect nearby properties. At 1:51 p.m., fire officials reported that the blaze was moving rapidly and was not under control. By 2:08 p.m., confirmed fire locations included 3860 Desert Lake Road and 301 Hinchinbrook Road. Earlier reports of flames at Craig Road were dismissed after crews investigated. By 2:44 p.m., firefighters identified three more active fire zones further north along Hinchinbrook Road. The Ministry of Natural Resources joined the effort, deploying a helicopter to provide an aerial assessment and support ground crews. At 3:55 p.m., emergency officials confirmed that one of the major fire sites had been contained. Crews continued working into the evening to douse hot spots and secure the perimeter. Power infrastructure was threatened at points where the fire advanced beneath high-voltage hydro lines, though no outages were immediately reported. As of 5:16pm, the fire is considered contained, and crews are working on extinguishing any hot spots that remain As of 8:26pm we have received numerous reports that the fire has been completely extinguish 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

(Peterborough, ON) The Peterborough Police Service has released a statement to the public regarding two recent homicide cases where the accused individuals were granted release from custody under strict conditions. Chief Stuart Betts issued the update under the authority of the Community Safety and Police Act and Ontario Regulation 412/23, which permits the release of certain personal information when individuals are charged with serious offences and released by the courts. According to Chief Betts, two men — Josh Crane and Dylan Moffatt — have been charged in separate homicide cases and are now under court-ordered release while awaiting trial. Although neither is residing in Peterborough at this time, both are accused of crimes that occurred within the community. “Given the seriousness of the crimes, and strict conditions of release, I believe the community should be aware of their potential presence should they return to our city,” said Chief Betts. Pictures from Peterborough Police Josh Crane Dylan Moffatt Case Details Josh Crane was charged with manslaughter in connection with an August 3, 2025, homicide. His release order includes a nightly residence requirement with a surety, restrictions on communication, a prohibition on weapons, and GPS monitoring once a device becomes available. Dylan Moffatt was charged with manslaughter in relation to a May 18, 2025, homicide. His release terms include house arrest with exceptions for medical emergencies, legal meetings, and employment, as well as a strict no-contact order and a weapons prohibition. Both men remain subject to ongoing monitoring by police, and any violation of their conditions will result in arrest and a return to court. Chief’s Concerns on Bail In his statement, Chief Betts emphasized that while the justice system requires courts to weigh evidence, legal precedent, and community confidence when granting release, these cases highlight a pressing issue: “It is not an easy job, but it highlights the need for meaningful bail reform that more appropriately addresses violent offences of such an egregious nature.” Chief Betts reiterated that both accused remain presumed innocent until proven guilty, but stressed the importance of transparency and public awareness in matters of community safety. The Peterborough Police Service has published the names and photos of both accused on its website as well. For full details, visit: Peterborough Police Service To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’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

Engines roared, sparks flew and the grandstands shook with cheers as the demolition derby delivered a night of crunching collisions at Madoc’s Fair Saturday night for their 120th year celebration. The event opened with the national anthem before the crowd turned its attention to the ring, where young drivers in toy Power Wheels cars popped balloons in a lighthearted warm-up to the main competition. The miniature car division came first, with 32 vehicles split into three heats. The first heat included eight drivers and the remaining two heats had 12 drivers in each heat. The top four drivers from all three heats moved on to the demolition feature. Between heats, the crowd was treated to fiery performances by Darling Darling of the North Fire Circus Company, who dazzled with a flame-filled act that drew loud applause with crowds shouting their loudest “yee-haw!”. The trucks followed with six drivers battling for dominance, ending with some smashed-up trucks and unharmed drivers. Darling returned to the ring for one last performance with some more fire acts with hula hoops, ending it with a fire-eating act with batons lit a blaze. As the night went on, the hard luck heat gave 14 competitors one last chance to smash their way into the feature. For many drivers, this was a tough heat, having to go against other drivers from the mini car heat for a spot to try again. The top four drivers moved on to the feature for a third attempt to win tonight’s demolition derby feature. Behind the ring, in the pits, many drivers participating in tonight’s feature prepared to get their cars ready for another thrill-seeking round. Switching out flat tires and oil filters, securing loose pieces of steel on their trunks, topping up any oil and bolting down their hoods. The full-size cars entered the ring as the feature contenders prepared. The full-size car heat had six drivers and got the crowd engaged, ready for the feature to begin. The feature began shortly after with 16 drivers, each ready to give the crowd a show. As the crowd cheered, engines roared. The night neared an end as the final two drivers did a stand off, circling another mini car driver that had come to a stop, before crashing into each other with squealing tires and smoke. Madoc-local, Mike McGrain, had won tonight’s feature event. McGrain had participated in the second heat of the mini cars, placing third in his heat. By the end of the evening, with smoke hanging over the ring and cars reduced to twisted metal, fans left the grandstands buzzing from a spectacle that organizers say remains one of the fair’s most popular traditions. 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. By contributing, you’re directly supporting local journalism that matters, helping us cover important issues, engage with our communities, and continue providing insightful reporting you can trust. Every contribution makes a difference. https://square.link/u/3igJuspD Small Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(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. By contributing, you’re directly supporting local journalism that matters, helping us cover important issues, engage with our communities, and continue providing insightful reporting you can trust. Every contribution makes a difference. https://square.link/u/3igJuspD Small Business Spotlight If you wish to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(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