Home Authors Articles by Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Articles by Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
69 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.
Centrally located in Peterborough County, Selwyn Township is home to the communities of Bridgenorth, Lakefield, Ennismore, Young's Point, and Buckhorn. With nearly 18,700 residents, it is the county's most populous municipality. (Photo: Selwyn Township website)

Selwyn Township candidates tell voters why they are seeking office

One acclaimed incumbent and four candidates in contested ward races introduce their campaigns in Peterborough County's most populous municipality.
The Township of Cavan Monaghan is a rural municipality in southwestern Peterborough County with a population of over 10,000 residents. (Photo: Township of Cavan Monaghan website)

Township of Cavan Monaghan council hopefuls introduce their campaigns ahead of October election

Candidates in Peterborough County municipality discuss growth, affordability, rural identity, and accountable leadership.
The Township of Asphodel-Norwood is a rural municipality in southern Peterborough County with a population of over 4,600 residents. (Photo: Township of Asphodel-Norwood website)

Township of Asphodel-Norwood candidates explain why they are running in the municipal election

First instalment in kawarthaNOW's Peterborough County election series features candidates' responses in their own words.
Ward 3 (Town) is one of the five geographic electoral wards in the City of Peterborough, each represented on city council by two councillors. Town Ward covers the downtown core and adjacent historical neighborhoods of the city. (Photo: Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area)

Peterborough ward candidates weigh neighbourhood advocacy against city-wide interests

Candidates running for council explain how they would balance representing their ward with making decisions for Peterborough as a whole.
Taking place every August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day is the world's largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those who have died from drug poisoning, acknowledge the grief of the family and friends, and promote evidence-based action to prevent future deaths. In 2026, the campaign marks its 25th anniversary with the international theme "Still Needed." (Photo: PARN)

Peterborough to mark 25th anniversary of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31

PARN-hosted gathering in Millennium Park will remember people lost to drug-related deaths and call for compassion, harm reduction, and evidence-based prevention.
Participants prepare to "Take Back the Night" with a candle-lit march through Peterborough's downtown core during the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre's annual event on September 18, 2025. The 2026 event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, September 17 outside in the Peterborough Square Courtyard. (Photo: Julia Lawrence)

46th annual ‘Take Back the Night’ event brings survivors, advocates, and allies together in...

Hosted by the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, the September 17 event will call for cultural change to prevent sexual violence.
Supporters of local arts and social services organizations gathered outside Peterborough City Hall on November 12, 2024 to protest a proposed 25 per cent across-the-board cut in the City of Peterborough's 2025 draft budget to grants to community organizations. Following strong community opposition, city council ultimately voted against the cuts. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)

Peterborough ward candidates outline their financial priorities ahead of municipal election

Candidates discuss property taxes, responsible spending, economic growth, and the challenge of funding essential municipal services.
A Peterborough Transit bus in front of a transit stop. (Photo: City of Peterborough)

Peterborough ward candidates outline their priorities for transportation and active transportation

Latest instalment in kawarthaNOW's multi-story election series explores how candidates would improve public transit, road safety, cycling infrastructure, and more.
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.

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