Home Authors Articles by Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Articles by Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
61 Articles
Bethan Bates is a writer and charitable sector professional who is interested in the issues affecting our society. An experienced writer and editor, Bethan has covered a host of topics from local events to international affairs to media reviews. Through her work, writing, and volunteering, Bethan is dedicated to advocating for women’s and children’s rights. In her free time she can be found doing yoga, reading, or cuddling with her cat. Her reporting is funded by the Government of Canada through its Local Journalism Initiative.
Jason Seguya began his role as the new chief executive officer of United Way Peterborough and District on July 6, 2026, taking over leadership of the non-profit organization after previous CEO Jim Russell retired after almost 15 years. (Photo courtesy of United Way Peterborough and District)

27-year-old Jason Seguya brings a new generation of leadership to United Way Peterborough and...

One month into his role as a 'non-traditional' CEO, Seguya is focused on strengthening local charities and ensuring diverse voices help shape the organization's work.
Juno award-winning singer-songwriter Rox Sexmith submitted a pre-recorded performance of "Love of My Life" by Queen during the inaugural "Fredathon" music marathon in 2025, organized by Peterborough singer-songwriter Taylor Abrahamse to raise funds for trans rights. The second annual Fredathon takes place live on Saturday, September 5 at Dreams of Beans in downtown Peterborough and will also be streamed online. (kawarthaNOW screenshot of YouTube video)

‘Fredathon’ will channel the music of Queen and Freddie Mercury into support for queer...

Peterborough singer-songwriter Taylor Abrahamse will lead a 10-hour live and online music marathon on September 5 to raise funds for Rainbow Railroad.
A rendering of TVM Group's 17-storey residential-commercial building to be constructed at 90 Hunter Street East beside Mark Street United Church in Peterborough's East City. On September 3, 2025, Peterborough city council voted 7-4 to approve a zoning by-law amendment to allow construction to proceed on the building, which will be the tallest in Peterborough. (Graphic: RAW Design Inc.)

Peterborough ward candidates weigh in on housing intensification across the city

As part of a multi-story series on the municipal election, kawarthaNOW asks ward candidates about intensification both in established neighbourhoods and city wide.
United Way Peterborough & District's new CEO Jason Seguya with Tiffany Arcari during the announcement of Arcari as the 2026-27 campaign cabinet chair on July 15, 2026. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

United Way Peterborough & District celebrates milestone year of fundraising and community investment

Organization's 84th annual general meeting highlights more than $1.5 million raised, $2.4 million invested in the community, and the arrival of new CEO Jason Seguya.
The industrial park located beside Highway 115 in southeast Peterborough. (Photo: City of Peterborough)

Peterborough ward candidates lay out their visions for the city’s economic future

As part of a multi-story series on the municipal election, kawarthaNOW asks ward candidates how Peterborough should approach economic development strategies and opportunities.
Contractors completed an upgrade to the radio tower at Wilson Park / Woodview Fire Station 1 in North Kawartha Township on July 30, 2026 to improve communications for fire services and public works across the township. (Photo: Edward Hilton / North Kawartha Township)

North Kawartha Township invests in stronger emergency communications as severe weather increases

Completed Woodview radio tower upgrade using provincial funding part of a broader effort to improve readiness and reduce service disruptions during future storms
As of July 31, 2026, 30 people have registered as candidates for the 11 seats on Peterborough city council in the October municipal election, including six for mayor and 24 for ward councillors. (Photo: City of Peterborough)

Upcoming kawarthaNOW election series to put Peterborough ward candidates on the record

Registered candidates have been asked to explain their positions on economic growth, housing, transportation, city finances, governance, and other city issues.
The seven candidates running for two councillor positions in Ward 5 (Northcrest) in Peterborough's municipal election, as of July 28, 2026, are (left to right, top and bottom) incumbent Andrew Beamer, Debbie Halstead, Phil Jolicoeur, Paul Lawton, Charmaine Magumbe, Gavin Muir, and Jim Wasson, (kawarthaNOW collage of photos from candidate websites and social media)

Peterborough Northcrest Ward candidates introduce their campaigns ahead of October’s municipal election

With one incumbent seeking re-election and six challengers on the ballot, kawarthaNOW continues a multi-part councillor candidate series with Ward 5.
Peterborough City Hall. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)

Peterborough youth organize to take civic engagement into their own hands

Led by student organizer Avery Trenholm, the new Leaders of Tomorrow group is creating an independent forum for residents aged 13 to 18 to advocate for their priorities.
Tenants in Etobicoke protesting a property management company's above-guideline rent increase (AGI) on May 24, 2026. (Photo: Toronto Tenant Union / Facebook)

New Peterborough Tenant Union aims to educate, support, and empower local renters

Grassroots group plans to share information about tenant rights, offer community support, and advocate for systemic change.

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