Peterborough Blogs
Alf Curtis Home Improvements Celebrating 50th Anniversary With Free BBQ On July 4
/As Alf Curtis Home Improvements gears up to celebrate its 50th anniversary, they are inviting the public out for a free BBQ at its facility on July 4.
Photo courtesy of Alf Curtis Home Improvement.
In 1975, Alf Curtis began with two employees: Alf and his wife, June Curtis. During the first year of operations, it expanded to include two new employees, including Alf's son, Larry Curtis.
The business initially began as a supply and installation company of aluminum products, including sidings, soffits, eavestroughs, storm doors, storm windows, awnings, and railings. Alf already had years of experience in installing these products before forming his own company.
“Fifty years in business is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of and we attribute our longevity to a few key principles that have guided us from the beginning,” said Brent Perry of Alf Curtis. “We’ve been fortunate to have a dedicated team—many of whom have been with us for decades—who share our values and take pride in what we do. Our success is really a reflection of their hard work and the trust our community has placed in us over the years.”
Prior to the lunch, Alf Curtis is kicking off their summer contractor appreciation breakfasts, serving coffee, donuts and breakfast sandwiches to their customers running from 7 a.m. to 9-9:30 a.m.
Vendors such as Isolofoam and Ideal Roofing are on hand to answer any questions a contractor or homeowner may have about their products and with giveaways.
Lunch begins at 10 a.m. and features guests from Castle, Pete Dalliday and the Peterborough Lakers and retired NHL referee Don Koharski. Alf Curtis is hosting a Q&A session regarding Koharski’s career as a professional NHL referee and with the Peterborough Lakers players.
“It is my understanding that a number of years ago Don was involved in a promotion with another Castle Building Centre member store in that area (Nova Scotia), he knew the owner personally,” explained Perry. “Don was invited to other Castle functions as time went on and he became the ‘Official Brand Ambassador’ for Castle Building Centers. A few months ago, we were chatting at a function we were both at. It came out in our conversation that it was the 50th anniversary for Alf Curtis this year and right away he offered to come to our location to help us promote our 50th.”
Photo courtesy of Alf Curtis Home Improvement.
Giveaways and raffles for two Canada Day Lakers jerseys will also be at the event.
Alf Curtis has added bathroom renovations to its list of supply and installation services alongside siding, soffit, eavestrough, windows and doors.
To round out the celebrations, Alf Curtis is hosting a no-tax promotion from June 30 to July 12.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Community Futures Peterborough Celebrates 40 of Fueling Local Businesses
/Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) hits a major milestone, celebrating its 40th anniversary during its Annual General Meeting at Farmhill Weddings in Keene on Thursday afternoon.
Business leaders, politicians, board members, entrepreneurs and community partners were on hand to celebrate and mark the occasion.
“Forty years of Community Futures Peterborough means 40 years of believing in entrepreneurs, fueling businesses and strengthening our regional economy,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director.” We’ve played a key role in helping thousands of local businesses start, grow and thrive. Today, we are so proud to honour that legacy.”
CFP reported that it had received a record $4.6 million in loan applications in its 2024-25 fiscal year and distributed over $1.38 million to 26 local companies. CFP says that the loans created and/or maintained over 330 local jobs during that span.
At the meeting, CFP paid tribute to several previous board chairs and also honoured the late executive director, Judy Heffernan.
“Celebrating 40 years is more than a milestone, it’s a testament to the dedication, resilience and impact of Community Futures Peterborough,” says Wayne Harding, CFP board chair. “We’ve helped countless entrepreneurs turn dreams into reality, and as we look ahead, we’re more committed than ever to driving local economic growth and empowering the next generation of business leaders.”
A pop-up market of graduates of the 2024 and 2025 Starter Company Plus program was on hand to sell services and merchandise during the celebration.
The following clients were at the pop-up market:
Common Thread Films
Architecture of Wellness
Layin’ Divots Golf
Lark & Lemon Cleaning Co.
The Willow Studio
Jodilee Nutrition
National Touring Museum
T-Elle Boutique
Home & Well
Duff Acres
The Doggery
Summer Soul
Urban Roots 47 Salon + Spa
Heeling Souls
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre Celebrates 20th Anniversary
/The City of Peterborough celebrated two decades of sports, fitness and activity at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre in a ceremony held on Thursday morning.
Dignitaries, sports notaries and Fleming College staff in front of the Wellness Centre. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The Centre had its groundbreaking ceremony on Nov. 25, 2003. Since it first opened its doors on June 5, 2005, the building has been equipped with three gymnasiums, an aquatics centre and water slide, fitness centre and classes, an indoor track and multi-purpose rooms. The facility has become a centre of community connection, said Mayor Jeff Leal.
“We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with the residents and staff who have made the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre such an integral part of our community,” he explained. “This has become a place where individuals of all ages come to build healthy habits, helping our residents lead active, connected lives. The Sport and Wellness Centre is a true community hub.”
“Over the years, the Sport and Wellness Centre has welcomed thousands of members and guests, hosted countless community events and fitness classes, and played an important role in fostering social connections and lifelong wellness,” said Councillors Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk in a joint statement. “We look forward to another 20 years of community and healthy activity at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre.”
Kristi McNamara was the Fleming College Knight Women’s Basketball team captain in 2005-06 and shot the first basket at the Peterborough Sports & Wellness Centre. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Fleming College has been a longtime partner of the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, serving as the home of the Fleming Phoenix.
“Fleming College is proud to celebrate 20 years of partnership with the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre. This facility has been an integral part of our students’ experience, providing a place where they can stay active, prioritize their well-being and feel connected to the broader Peterborough community,” said Dr. Kate McIntosh, Fleming College Vice President of Student Experience. “We are grateful for the Sport and Wellness Centre’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive space for all, and we congratulate the entire Sport and Wellness Centre team on this significant milestone.”
Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee Celebrates 50th Anniversary
/The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (PACAC) celebrated its 50th anniversary on Monday.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
In March 1975, the Ontario Heritage Act (OHA) was passed and months later, the City of Peterborough became the second municipality in Ontario to form a Municipal Heritage Committee.
The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee was established by City By-law on June 2, 1975, to advise and assist City Council on matters relating to the preservation and designation of heritage properties.
The first committee consisted of nine members: Dr. Eldon Ray, Betty Hinton, Maria Teresa Bradburn, J.J. Overvliet, Edgar Boland, Jennie Spurway, Victor Barry, Margaret Fleming, and Martha Ann Kidd.
Over the years, PACAC has also played a vital role in programs such as Doors Open Peterborough, Heritage Week and the Heritage Hunt, as well as providing educational events and workshops for owners of heritage properties, celebrating the City’s local heritage. Currently, 795 buildings are listed on the City’s Heritage Register - there are 348 properties in The Avenues and Neighbourhood Heritage Conservation District, and 142 buildings that have been individually designated under the OHA.
PACAC also recognizes the role that heritage preservation plays in mitigating the climate crisis through conservation of existing buildings, adaptive reuse projects and the idea that ‘the greenest building is the one that already exists.’
PACAC’s annual Heritage Hunt will take place in September. Doors Open Peterborough will take place on Sept. 13.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Peterborough Police Service Hosting Community Celebration For 175th Anniversary This Saturday
/With 2025 marking the 175th anniversary of the Peterborough Police Service, the public is invited to a community celebration between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at 1421 Lansdowne St. this Saturday.
Drew Merrett, Board Vice-Chair; Mayor Jeff Leal, Board Member; Chief Stuart Betts; Mary ten Doeschate, Board Chair; Councillor Gary Baldwin, Board Member; Steve Girardi, Board Member; Deputy Chief Jamie Hartnett. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.
The celebration will have the following:
Development of a 175th Anniversary Crest
Use of 175th Anniversary Crest decal on all marked patrol vehicles
Allow public to meet officers, Unit demonstrations, recruitment information, BBQ, petting zoo, obstacle course and more!
History of the Peterborough Police Service Display at Community Celebration
Return of the Chief For A Day contest
Update the mission, Vision and Values for the Police Service
The Service was officially formed as one of the first acts of Peterborough council in 1850, with William Cummings serving as Chief Constable alongside four part-time constables serving a population of around 2,200. Since then, the Service has grown to 162 officers and 96 civilian members serving the residents of the City of Peterborough, Village of Lakefield and Township of Cavan-Monaghan — with a combined population of approximately 100,000 people — and welcomes in just over three million visitors, students and residents from neighbouring communities, annually.
The Peterborough Police Service marked the start of those celebrations on Tuesday. Chief of Police Stuart Betts placed the official 175th Anniversary Crest on our marked patrol vehicles alongside our Police Service Board members.
“We are honoured to be stewarding the celebration of this milestone. It is important for us to say thank you to the officers and civilians that built this Organization and have served with dedication as our community has grown,” said Chief Stuart Betts. “When looking back through our history, it is not surprising to see the Peterborough Police Service at the forefront of policing and public safety innovation. We pledge that the Service of the future is just as forward thinking and responsive to the needs of our policing communities. As part of that pledge, we will revisit the mission, vision and values of our Service to ensure they reflect not only today’s expectations, but also the future needs of our Organization and the Community.”
Historical Markers:
The Peterborough Police Service is the 10th oldest service in the province
14 police chiefs in service history - Peterborough Police Chief George H. Johnston was originally thought to have been the first Chief of the Peterborough Police Service; however, historical archives suggest that there were three others who preceded him.
First civilian member was a female stenographer in 1952
First female officer 1968
First forensic unit created in 1948
First K9 Unit 1997
500 Water Street officially opened in 1968 and was the only police-designated building until the City of Peterborough purchase of the 1421 Lansdowne Street location in February 2024
2025 is also the 25th Anniversary of the Peterborough Police Service Auxiliary Unit
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Public Invited to Celebrate 20th Anniversary of Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre
/The public is invited to join the City of Peterborough in celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre next Thursday at 10 a.m.
Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.
The event will feature speeches from local dignitaries, including the Mayor, City Council members and representatives from Fleming College, which has been a community partner at the Sport and Wellness Centre since its opening.
“For 20 years the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre has been a cornerstone of our community, promoting health and wellness for people of all ages,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “This is more than just a recreation facility. It’s a gathering place where goals are achieved, friendships are formed and lives are enriched. I encourage everyone to join us in celebrating 20 years of active living through the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre.”
Refreshments will be served. Photos of the Sport and Wellness Centre over the last two decades will be on display near the main entrance.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Premiere Studio of Dance Celebrates Milestone With 25 Years In Peterborough
/Premiere Studio of Dance is under the spotlight again as they hit a milestone, celebrating their 25th anniversary this year.
Photo courtesy of Sara Connelly and Premiere Studio of Dance.
To mark the occasion, the studio is hosting year-end recitals from May 28 to 31 at the Showplace Performance Centre. The performances showcase talent from across the region.
Premiere Studio of Dance was founded in June 2000 by Robyn Carter, owner and artistic director. The business began as a dream while she was attending Trent University.
“Our studio has always been about more than just dance,” said Carter. “We’ve grown with our students and our community. Watching young dancers grow in confidence, artistry, and resilience has been the greatest reward.”
Photo courtesy of Sara Connelly and Premiere Studio of Dance.
Over the past two and a half decades, the studio has grown alongside the Peterborough community, serving thousands of families and nurturing generations of dancers.
“I’m most proud of all the dancers and all the families that I’ve gotten to be a part of and share a part of their kids growing up,” explained Carter. “With social media, you can see the kids dance together.”
Premiere students have gone on to achieve remarkable success in both professional and academic arenas — performing on cruise ships, in major cities like New York City, Toronto, London (UK), and Chicago. They have also been accepted into prestigious post-secondary dance programs such as those at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), York University, George Brown College and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. Several have gone on to become award-winning choreographers, teachers and artists.
“I love Peterborough and the surrounding community,” said Carter. “We continue to grow and we continue to offer great classes for all our communities and continue on and enjoy the journey.”
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
History of Peterborough Keeps On Trucking As Kawartha Time Machine Hits Decade Milestone
/What started as a streaming oldies platform to showcase a growing collection of local and regional broadcast archives, Kawartha Time Machine celebrates a decade of hitting the waves as a local internet platform.
The most recent audience numbers for the 30 days ending Feb. 28, 2025 show 2,507 listeners in 123 countries streaming for a combined 10,508 hours, with average listening times of just over five hours. Photo courtesy of Kawartha Time Machine.
It was launched in the first week of March in 2015 by Gordon Gibb; known as a tenured Peterborough writer/broadcaster and Petes PA announcer.
With listeners in over 100 countries, Kawartha Time Machine sampling the music and nostalgia, weekday features, eclectic weekend shows and vignettes highlighting the jewels of Peterborough and surrounding area. This includes the Lift Lock, Musicfest, 4th Line Theatre and the Peterborough Theatre Guild, The Peterborough Petes, the Canadian Canoe Museum and the City itself. The program has also had close ties to Lester B. Pearson, Robertson Davies and Neil Young.
“It quickly became apparent that given the site's global reach, I can help those living abroad stay in touch with their native homeland, as well as promote the region as a destination,” said Gibb.
His growing collection of regional broadcast archives gained significant interest over time.
“I rolled tape whenever anything of significance happened over the years which has combined to a treasure trove of audio archives including the Peterborough flood of 2004, major fires, local elections and Gary Dalliday's very first sportscast in 1975.,” explained Gibb. “I also have all of John Badham's commentaries, and a newscast from his third day on the job with us in 1988.”
Kawartha Time Machine also had unearthed archives extend back to the 1960s with people such as Del Crary and the week Peterborough Square first opened in 1975. The archives include audio from 1420 CKPT, the early days of Country 105, and CKLY in Lindsay.
“The voices and the events are forever ingrained in our memories,” said Gibb. “It's history that would otherwise gather dust in a box. With The Time Machine, they're available to anyone. An audible museum of history.”
Future plans include segments on Peterborough's unique and long-heralded rock and roll roots.
“It started as a hobby,” said Gibb. "But it's become a passion. And people seem to quite enjoy it.”
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Peterborough Using New Logo To Celebrate 175th Anniversary of City's Incorporation
/The City of Peterborough is using a new version of its logo in 2025 to reflect the 175th anniversary of its incorporation as the Town of Peterborough in 1850.
The Town of Peterborough was officially incorporated on Jan. 1, 1850, under the Baldwin Act, which allowed for the incorporation of townships, villages, towns and cities, each with its own democratically elected council. In 1850 Peterborough had a population of roughly 2,200 people. Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.
The City will be incorporating the recognition of its 175th anniversary into various events throughout the year.
“For 175 years, Peterborough has grown and evolved into a hub of culture, education and industry. This important milestone is a testament to those who have built, shaped and strengthened Peterborough for generations,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “As we celebrate our rich history we look forward to our exciting future, filled with opportunity, progress and Peterborough’s unwavering sense of community.”
Along with the temporary alternative logo, the City will use ‘Peterborough 175 | 1850-2025 | Celebrating the foundation of our future’ for the anniversary.
Peterborough was officially incorporated as a City on July 1, 1905
The following are relevant and notable occurrences during the City’s 175-year run:
Peterborough is home to the Peterborough Lift Lock, which is the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world and designated as a national historic site of Canada.
Peterborough is known as ‘The Electric City’ because in May 1884 it was one of the first cities in Canada to have electric streetlights.
Peterborough-based Fisher Gauge produced Hasbro’s Monopoly game pieces in the 1980s.
Quaker Oats, now PepsiCo, opened its plant here in 1902.
Fire destroyed the downtown on August 16, 1861, which led to a by-law that buildings must be made of brick.
Canada General Electric was established here in 1891
Canadian singing legend Stompin’ Tom Connors got his nickname Stompin’ Tom in Peterborough. Before he died in 2013, he chose Peterborough as the location for his public memorial because of his connection to the community.
Senator Iva Fallis, born in 1883, was the second woman ever appointed to the Senate.
Per-capita, Peterborough had the most enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in the Second World War.
2025 is also the 200th anniversary of the Peterborough Robinson Emigration of 1825 that brought nearly 2,000 Irish settlers to the Nogojiwanong-Peterborough area. Nine Ships 1825 Inc. is organizing events to recognize the Bicentennial.