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

The Cobourg Police Service is alerting residents about a fraudulent text message scam circulating in the community. A concerned resident recently reported receiving a suspicious text claiming to be from Service Ontario, demanding immediate payment for a supposed speed camera fine. Authorities are stressing that this is a scam. Service Ontario does not issue fines through text messages; all official notices, including those for automated speed cameras, are sent exclusively by mail via Canada Post. Red Flags to Watch For: The text may originate from a foreign phone number with an unfamiliar area code. It often uses incorrect terms such as “DMV” or refers to non-existent laws. Messages may include threatening language, urging recipients to pay immediately to avoid penalties. Scam texts typically contain a suspicious link directing you to a fraudulent website. What You Should Do: ❌ Do not click on any links. 🚫 Do not reply to the message. 📵 Block the sender. 📞 Report the scam to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. Police remind residents that government agencies will never use text messages to demand payment for fines. Sharing this information can help protect friends, family, and neighbours from falling victim to these scams. By keeping each other informed, our community can stay one step ahead of these scammers. 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

(DESERONTO, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions Update, 10:47pm: The fire has reignited and continues to burn at a steady rate. The building is almost completely destroyed and will unfortunately need to be rebuilt from the ground up. Video Courtesy of Philip Fingland Update, 9:53pm: The fire is close to power lines and residents may experience power outages. Also it has been confirmed no injuries have been reported. Update, 9:48pm: Firefighters are still on scene working hard to control the blaze, as the flames keep resurfacing, the damage is extensive and the building will need to be repaired before it can reopen. Update, 9:07pm: The fire is still burning and has moved into the storage units nearby. Fire is on scene working to extinguish the flames. A devastating fire broke out at the Deseronto Flea Market earlier today, sending shockwaves through the community. Thick smoke and flames could be seen rising from the site as emergency crews rushed to contain the blaze. At this time, the extent of injuries remains unknown. Local residents and visitors alike are anxiously awaiting updates, holding out hope that everyone is safe. The Deseronto Flea Market has long been a gathering place for families, small business vendors, and bargain hunters. The sudden loss is not only a tragedy for the vendors whose livelihoods depend on it but also for the community that has cherished it for years. Authorities are expected to release more information as the situation develops. Our hearts are with all those impacted by this tragic event. We sincerely hope for the safety and well-being of everyone who may have been present. 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

(PETERBOROUGH, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | UPDATE: Christopher has been located safely The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Christopher, who has been reported missing. Christopher is described as Caucasian, 5’5” with a thin build, blue eyes, and a shaved head. He was last seen on September 3, 2025, wearing a camo ball cap (typically worn backwards), a dark-coloured T-shirt, grey sweatpants, and black shoes. Police and family are concerned for his well-being and are urging anyone who may have seen Christopher or has information about his whereabouts to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Peterborough Police Service directly at (705) 876-1122 ext. 274 or you can reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers. Please share and let's help bring Christopher home. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you would like to advertise with us email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

(COBOURG,ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Cobourg community is safer today for us and our children thanks to the dedicated efforts of local police officers who continue to protect the most vulnerable among us. On September 5, 2025, members of the Cobourg Police Service Criminal Investigations Bureau arrested a 54-year-old Cobourg resident following a focused investigation into child pornography. This decisive action underscores the commitment of law enforcement to stand on the frontlines against crimes that cause unimaginable harm. “These crimes cause real harm to real children,” the service emphasized in its release. By moving swiftly and decisively, investigators not only brought an individual into custody but also reinforced a clear message: child exploitation will not be tolerated in our community. This arrest is more than just an enforcement action; it represents hope, protection, and safety today for us and our children. Behind every investigation are people of all ages who deserve dignity, security, and the freedom to grow up without fear. The 54-year-old male was charged with Possession of Child Pornography and 4 counts of Voyeurism. The Cobourg Police Service urges anyone with information about such offences to come forward, reminding the public that even a single tip can be the spark that prevents a child from further harm. 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

(COBOURG, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions A Cobourg family is asking for the community’s help after a violent robbery downtown left their son injured and in hospital late Wednesday night. The incident happened on September 3, 2025, at approximately 11:40 p.m. in the area of Orange Street and Spring Street. According to Cobourg Police, the victim was assaulted by a group of individuals who stole several personal belongings, including an electric scooter. The victim’s mother, shared on social media that her son was attacked by four individuals, one reportedly known by the name “Thomas.” Along with the scooter, the suspects allegedly took his backpack, bank card, cell phone, socks, and Nike shoes. Her post explained that her son spent nearly six hours at Northumberland Hills Hospital, where his wounds were treated and a head CT scan was performed before he was released. Police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Officers are asking anyone with information, dashcam footage, or security camera footage from the area to contact Cobourg Police at 905-372-6821. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at stopcrimehere.ca , where tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward. The family is urging anyone who may have seen or heard something to come forward to help identify those responsible. 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