Peterborough Blogs
PTBOSpotlight: Shannon McCracken Voice Studio
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Shannon McCracken Voice Studio. It is owned by singer, actor, voice-over artist and teacher Shannon McCracken.
McCracken has performed across Canada and is equally at home in plays and musicals, film and TV and on the concert stage. Since opening her voice studio in 2014, she has brought her years of experience to those exploring their voices.
“I primarily teach voice lessons but also workshops and masterclasses, with a focus on singing, acting through song and audition technique,” explained McCracken. “As a teacher, I’ve been an adjudicator for the Kiwanis Music Festival, worked as the voice and music director for Thomas A Secondary School's musical theatre program and created and directed Theatre Art Training Academy’s summer intensive program and show.”
McCracken has launched her new kids' singing course, “Explore Your Voice!”
This dynamic singing course is designed to ignite a love for music and singing in kids aged 6-12. Through fun, interactive lessons, children will explore their vocal potential, gain new skills, access more sound and range and boost their confidence.
Whether you are a complete beginner or a budding vocalist, this program provides a supportive, encouraging environment to discover the joy of singing.
“Join the adventure and watch your child's voice soar,” said McCracken. “Explore Your Voice! is more than just lessons; it's a journey of musical discovery and self-expression. Let the singing begin!”
The Voice Studio recently opened its online store, “The Studio Shop,” which offers online coaching packages, courses, content and gift cards.
She also started the “Members Only Online Studio,” calling it her most exciting project. Here is where you can train, grow and discover your voice. From audio exercises to video classes, series, and monthly check-ins, you can now learn at your own pace. When you’re ready, be a part of a community of singers who are here to cheer you on.
“I believe that everyone can sing,” concluded McCracken. “Voice lessons are a great way to gain confidence, become more comfortable in both your body and voice and they provide you with a creative outlet to express yourself fully.”
To learn more about Shannon McCracken Voice Studio, find it online:
Website: www.shannonmccracken.com
Instagram: @shannonkmccracken
Facebook: Shannon McCracken
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Dante's Gourmet Burrito
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Dante's Gourmet Burrito. It is owned by Eva’s Delight Inc.
Located at 195 Simcoe St. (across from the Peterborough Bus Terminal), Dante's Gourmet Burrito has served fresh Mexican cuisine including burritos, quesadillas, tacos, nachos and more.
“We offer a wide variety of freshly made protein options along with multiple tortilla choices, including high-protein and gluten-free options,” said Surendra Patle of Dante's Gourmet Burrito. “All our sauces are made in-house with no preservatives and we take pride in delivering healthy, flavorful meals to our customers.”
The business first opened in 2009 as one of Peterborough’s first burrito establishments.
“Over the years, it has grown to become one of the most popular and award-winning restaurants in the area, known for its quality, freshness and commitment to great taste.”
A Downtown Peterborough staple, Dante's Gourmet Burrito has been supporting the local economy and community.
“Dante’s works closely with local farmers and small businesses, sourcing fresh ingredients from local suppliers to prepare our food,” explained Patle. “We also show appreciation to our community by offering special discounts to public servants, frontline workers, senior citizens and students.”
Whether you are craving barbacoa, carnitas, pollo asado, chorizo, tofu or any other of their selections, Dante's Gourmet Burrito can customize your meal the way you want with everything made in-house.
“Our mission is to continue serving delicious, wholesome Mexican food while supporting the community that has supported us for so many years. At Dante’s, everything we make is crafted with care, freshness, and a passion for great food.”
To learn more about Dante's Gourmet Burrito, find it online:
Instagram: @dantes_gourmet_burrito
Facebook: Dante's Gourmet Burrito
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: DC Aluminum
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring DC Aluminum. It is owned by Cameron Doak.
Located at 171A Rink Street, Unit 192, DC Aluminum is a leading exterior renovation company specializing in high-quality siding and eavestrough systems.
“With a focus on aluminum and vinyl, we provide durable, low-maintenance solutions designed to protect and beautify homes and commercial properties,” said Doak. “Our commitment to excellence ensures that every project is completed with precision, care, and attention to detail.”
The company was founded initially in Barrie. Its community was hit with a tornado which left it devastated. It took roughly a year for DC Aluminum to rebuild the subdivision and its exteriors. Ultimately, the business had relocated to Peterborough.
“We quickly became a trusted face in the community. Completing over 50 projects in the destroyed community,” explained Doak. “We moved to Peterborough about three years ago and haven't regretted it. We are looking forward to working within our new community.”
The business boasts that all of its products are 100 per cent Canadian.
“We only use Canadian-made materials,” said Doak. “All of our aluminum and siding is manufactured in Canada.”
To learn more about DC Aluminum, find it online:
Website: www.dcaluminum.ca
Facebook: DC Aluminum
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Noodles Squad
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Noodles Squad. It is owned by Jenjob “Jay” Bakker.
Located at 415 George St. N. in Downtown Peterborough, Noodles Squad brings the heart of Thai street food to Peterborough, offering authentic flavours inspired by traditional recipes.
Formerly known as Real Thai Cuisine, Noodles Squad is a second-generation restaurant.
“For years, many of you knew us as Real Thai Cuisine, where our parents poured their hearts into sharing the classic curries and dishes they loved,” explained Bakker. “After dedicating so many years to the kitchen, it was time for them to rest, and for us, their kids, to carry the torch.”
Noodles Squad is Bakker’s tribute to his parents as he takes over the rebanded business but in his own unique way.
“We wanted to honour their legacy while also putting our own spin on the family business,” he said. This is how Noodles Squad was born—a modern tribute to the lively, faspaced world of Thai street food. We refocused our menu on the exciting, quick-fire dishes you find on the bustling streets of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. We now specialize in things we know every Thai food lover craves: crispy pork, intensely spicy curries, and incredible noodles.”
The restaurant’s signature dishes feature “The Savory” crispy pork, Tom Yum noodle soup and Pad Thai. They also have an array of soups, salad, spring rolls curry, noodles and more to bring the Thai-cuisine spirit to Downtown Peterborough.
“We kept the heart and soul of what you loved about our food, while adding the punchy, vibrant flavours of the streets,” said Bakkar. “Whether you’re a long-time friend of the family or a new customer, we invite you to join our squad and taste the next chapter of our story.”
To learn more about Noodles Squad, find it online:
Website: www.noodlessquadptbo.ca
Instagram: @noodlessquadptbo
Facebook: Noodles Squad PTBO
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.
PTBOSpotlight: One Fine Food
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring One Fine Food. It is owned by Glenn Stonehouse.
Located at 800 Erskine Ave. just beside Lansdowne Place, One Fine Food offers a food and shopping experience unlike anything else in the area. It features a market, butcher/seafood counter, delicatessen, housewares, a restaurant and bar, groceries and more.
“Our butcher department brings you local, responsibly farmed meats,” said Bryan Coles, One Fine Food general manager. “Including from beef from Penokean Hills and Enright Cattle, Pork from Linton pastured pork. Lamb from Beverly Creek. Our seafood department brings in fresh fish and seafood sourced from around the world.”
The business features a lunch, dinner and brunch menu, seven days a week. They serve antipasto, sandwiches, wood-fired pizza, pasta and more. Their brunch menu features favourites like eggs benedict, French toast, a breakfast bagel and other dishes.
“Our Café, bakery, and lunch bar offer a selection of daily fresh-baked breads, pastries, cookies, squares and treats,” said Coles. “Our baristas craft authentic lattes, cappuccinos and iced coffees. Our lunch bar offers a quick slice of Focaccia pizza, freshly made panini or a sandwich to go.”
While One Fine Food has a lot of high-quality imported goods, they have not forgotten to support local businesses.
“Our store and restaurant regularly work with local businesses and farmers, bringing some of the best products from our area under one roof,” explained Coles.”
One Fine Food contains products from some of these local businesses:
Millars Eggs
Circle Organic
McLeans Berry Farm
Little Leaf Farm
Crosswinds Farm
Niagara food specialties
Enright Cattle - Beef And Tallow Products
Center And Main Chocolates
Heritage Cattle co. Le Beaus Bees
Carolinas Coffee
La Hacienda
Porch Dog Coffee
St. Annes Bakery
Bobcaygeon Brewing Company
Old Flame Brewery
Old Jar Candle
The County Fare
Lark & Lemon
To learn more about One Fine Food, find it online:
Website: www.onefinefood.com
Instagram: @onefinefood
Facebook: One Fine Food
Twitter/X: @onefinefood
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.
PTBOSpotlight Template: Seductive Sounds
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Seductive Sounds. It is owned by Stephen Fleming.
Seductive Sounds is an automotive electronics retailer providing sales and installation of automotive accessories from remote starters and backup cameras to radios, speakers and large custom stereo systems. They also offer vehicle security, tracking and immobilizers as part of their product offering.
“With vehicle theft on the rise, we’re happy to offer vehicle immobilizers from Autowatch and Compustar that not only prevent theft but can also save on premiums with some insurance companies,” said Fleming.
His love of cars started in 1994 when a family friend dropped by in a customized vehicle. He became hooked on this car culture even before he could drive and was able to add a small stereo system to the family car.
Over time, building car audio systems for friends and family grew into a passionate professional career. Over thirty years later, Fleming remains at the forefront of new products, innovations, installation integrations, techniques, and technologies.
“My passion has never been stronger and is shown in every install, large and small. I take pride in doing it right the first time and the smile on my customers face is the most rewarding part my his job.”
Seductive Sounds purchases all its products directly from manufacturers, which helps pass the savings on to the customer.
“It cuts out the costly middleman and ensuring we only sell quality merchandise,” said Fleming. “This provides our customers with the best warranty available. We install all products we sell, guaranteeing the installation for as long as it stays in the customer’s vehicle.”
While his products are purchased from other manufacturers, everything else is kept local for his business.
“We use local vendors for business needs – Tools, signs, stickers, apparel, business cards, advertising etc.,” explained Fleming. “We provide services to local dealerships and businesses at a reduced cost to them. We also offer a first responder discount. We have supported local non-profit organizations with monetary and product donations.”
To learn more about Seductive Sounds, find it online:
Website: www.seductivesounds.ca
Instagram: @_seductivesounds_
Facebook: Seductive Sounds
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.
Voice of Business: Why Culture Matters in Peterborough
/
Recently, the arts and culture sector has been heating up.
Just last week, the City of Peterborough released a survey to hear from artists and organizations about the current state of the arts and culture sector in Ontario. Last year, your local Chamber submitted a letter to Peterborough City Council urging them to reconsider cutting funding for the arts and culture sector in our city. In that letter, we highlighted the importance of this sector to Peterborough’s identity, economy, and livability. We recognize the sector's significance in many ways, including how it drives community spending and brings visitors to our region. We appreciate the city recognizing the value of the arts and culture sector and the clear link between a thriving cultural community and economic benefits.
First, let’s break down what we mean when we refer to "culture." In this context, culture is used as a broad term that encompasses Peterborough’s unique social, physical, and historical makeup. It includes natural and cultural heritage, creative cultural industries, and community cultural organizations. Peterborough is widely known for its cultural attractions compared to neighbouring cities. For example, as of 2023, Peterborough has 115 heritage designations far more than cities like Barrie, which has 16 despite a population of over 100,000, and Thunder Bay, which has 60.
We have a lot to celebrate in Peterborough. Notable events and institutions include Musicfest, which just wrapped up; First Nations Pow Wows; the famous Canadian Canoe Museum, recently named one of the “Top 52 Places to Go in 2025” by the New York Times; the Peterborough Museum and Archives; and the Art Gallery of Peterborough. Peterborough stands out as a hub of culture, with a broad offering that spans heritage, festivals, natural attractions, creative industries, and more. It’s important to take a moment to reflect on just how much this sector contributes.
So, why is the arts and culture sector important to Peterborough? While there isn’t a single figure that captures the total local economic impact, we do have compelling examples. For instance, the Peterborough Musicfest, which runs from June 28 to August 16, brings a $4.3 million annual boost to the local economy and attracts more than 118,000 visitors. Like Musicfest, many other events across the region contribute significantly to economic activity by drawing thousands of attendees and millions of dollars each year.
Even more telling are the provincial numbers. Ontario’s arts and culture sector contributes $26 billion to GDP. Additionally, the sector provides jobs locally and thousands province-wide. As of October 2024, the cultural sector employed 273,478 people directly.
Investing in arts and culture also generates strong returns. Research from the City of Toronto found that for every dollar invested in cultural initiatives, $17.75 is generated in
return, including $5.15 from other levels of government, $5.48 from the private sector, and $7.12 from earned revenues such as ticket sales, program fees, venue rentals, and other spending. While the total impact of our cultural sector hasn’t been fully quantified, this data shows that the arts and culture sector doesn’t just provide social and community value; it drives significant economic activity as well.
As our city continues to grow and work to attract new residents and visitors, building a resilient arts and culture sector is essential. Research by the Ontario Arts Council found that 65% of Ontario business leaders say that a thriving arts and culture scene is something that would make it easier to attract top talent to their community. This highlights just how important it is to strengthen our cultural base and ensure its sustainability. A vibrant arts and culture sector supports both population growth and deeper community engagement.
Additionally, with more Canadians choosing domestic travel over trips to the U.S., our local arts and culture sector is in a prime position to benefit. Peterborough already offers a diverse range of cultural attractions that drive local tourism. We are at a pivotal moment to grow this audience and welcome more visitors. However, to meet the future demand, our cultural organizations must have the resources they need to remain operational and welcoming.
This past year has been particularly challenging for the cultural sector, as it faced threats of budget cuts and limited funding. Running a cultural organization is already difficult; many rely on sponsorships and government support to stay afloat. These investments are essential to the sustainability of the sector. As our VP, Joel Wiebe, said in our letter to council in late 2024:
“Those who are paid are typically compensated at far lower rates than the public sector, and they work well beyond the hours they are compensated for. Cuts to our community organizations will severely impact their servicing capabilities on top of their ongoing selfless efforts to serve our community.”
The arts and culture sector supports our community in selfless and profound ways, and it depends on government funding to continue doing so. This underscores just how critical that support is.
Finally, all of this combined makes the arts and culture sector the fabric of our community. Cultural planning and long-term investment in sustainability are essential to Peterborough’s economic development. If we want to attract new residents, draw in visitors, and retain talent, we must ensure our cultural organizations are sustainably
funded. Culture is not just an accessory; it is a core part of what makes a thriving, growing, and attractive community.
If you would like to have your say on shaping the cultural environment in the City of Peterborough, please click here. Responses are due August 25th, 2025.
Content provided by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Berc's Steakhouse
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Berc’s Steakhouse. It is owned by Cathy Zhang and Bob Xia.
Established in 2007, Berc’s is a fine dining steak house with a multi-level, multi-sectioned restaurant that will seat up to 150 guests. It is open six days a week for dinner and five days for lunch.
Berc’s came to fruition after Zhang and Xia wanted to open a restaurant from repeated trips to Peterborough. They loved the city so much that they decided it was the perfect spot to raise their two sons. Berc's is named as an acronym for the names of the family: Bob, Eric, Richard and Cathy.
Located at 186 Lansdowne St. E., the restaurant employs 20 long-term, local employees who helped get it voted the number one steakhouse in town for over a decade.
“We are very proud of our staff and the many awards we have won year after year, including best steakhouse for over 15 years, best restaurant atmosphere, best fine dining, best chef and best server multiple times,” said Mary MacCallum of Berc’s Steakhouse.
Berc's offers an array of entrées including steaks, seafood, lamb, chicken and pasta. They provide a separate lunch menu with a house-made soup and a chef's feature daily.
“We have a large number of repeat or regular guests,” explained MacCallum Our employees are on a first-name basis with many of our diners and know what day and time they come in, what table they like, what they like to drink, their favourite entrees and desserts.”
Berc’s also features a private dining room, holding up to 30 guests, which is equipped with an 85" smart board. It is ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, celebrations of life, weddings, or corporate functions—customized special menus are also available for any event.
“Our close-knit staff are a culmination of knowledge and capability. Many have worked in the industry for 20 plus years and bring with them a wealth of experience from many different types of restaurants.”
To learn more about Berc’s Steakhouse, find them online:
Website: www.bercs.ca
Instagram: @bercssteakhouse
Facebook: Berc’s Steakhouse
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.
PTBOSpotlight: Bullarco Roofing & Full Exteriors
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Bullarco Roofing & Full Exteriors. It is owned and founded by Chris Maguire.
With its main office located at 251 Chandler Cres., Bullarco focuses on roofing, siding and exterior services, mainly for residential and commercial metal roofing and siding. In addition, they are also certified Enviroshake Installation experts.
“Whether it’s a new installation, a roof replacement, or repairs, our team is dedicated to delivering expert workmanship you can trust, using products that stand the test of time,” said Chad O’Rourke of Bullarco. “We focus primarily on metal roofs (exposed fastener and mechanical standing seam) and siding projects. We also do cedar shake, enviroshake and modified bitumen.”
