Junior Achievement of Northern and Eastern Ontario Inducts 2025 Class Into Business Hall of Fame

Junior Achievement of Northern and Eastern Ontario (JANEO) has inducted its 2025 Class into the 10th Annual Business Hall of Fame at The Venue on Thursday night.

Toni and Kelli Grady; Donnell Leahy, Natalie McMaster and Julia Leahy and Margo and Paul Hudson were absent from the event. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 12 2025 JA-NEO Business Hall of Fame Inductees for Peterborough are:

• Darrell Junkin, Craftworks at the Barn

• Toni and Kelli Grady, Grady Feet Essentials

• Grant Seabrooke, Machine Dynamics Ltd.

• Matt Holmes and Michael Riseley, Holmes Riseley LLP

• Donnell Leahy, Natalie McMaster and Julia Leahy, Natalie Donnell Entertainment

• Margo and Paul Hudson, Jo Anne’s Place Health Foods

• Nancy Wiskel, Dan Joyce Clothing

• Martin and Kelly Carbajal, La Mesita Restaurante

• Drew Merrett, Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre

• Diane Richard, Diatom Consulting

• Raj Patel, Ennismore Foodland

• Peter, Rita, Michael, Eric and Graeme Eatson, Peterborough Volkswagen

“Our 10th anniversary is more than a milestone; it reflects the transformative power of education and entrepreneurship. This event is a tribute to those who believe in the power of financial literacy, education and entrepreneurship,” said John McNutt, JA-NEO President and CEO of JA-NEO. “This year’s anniversary also marks the true completion of our 10 for 10 initiative that will support education and opportunities for the coming 10 years moving forward, and today we are proud to celebrate the achievements of true entrepreneurs in Peterborough who are leading examples of giving back to the community.”

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Voice of Business: The Future Is Built Here: Why Local Manufacturing Matters and Why Youth Should Be Paying Attention

In Peterborough and the Kawarthas, manufacturing is more than just an industry—it’s a cornerstone of our economy, a driver of innovation, and a powerful engine for community growth. And yet, many still think of manufacturing as it was decades ago: repetitive, low-tech, and physically demanding.

That image couldn’t be further from the truth.

Today’s manufacturing is modern, high-tech, clean, and creative—and it needs a new generation of workers to thrive.

A Vital Part of Our Local Economy

Manufacturing has deep roots in our region. From historic companies like General Electric, which helped power Canada’s early electrification, to modern innovators in cleantech, aerospace, and food production, manufacturers have always been builders—not just of products, but of communities.

Local manufacturers:

• Provide hundreds of stable, well-paying jobs

• Drive investment in infrastructure and innovation

• Contribute to sustainable development and clean technology

When we support manufacturing, we support a resilient, self-reliant local economy.

A New Generation of Careers

Today’s manufacturing is driven by automation, digital tools, sustainability, and innovation. Career paths in this sector are more diverse and exciting than ever before.

• Robotics & automation

• Engineering & CAD design

• CNC machining & precision fabrication

• Sustainable product development

• Supply chain & logistics

• Quality assurance and safety

These roles aren’t just in-demand—they’re also high-paying, future-proof, and often come with opportunities for on-the-job learning or apprenticeships.

It’s time to bust the myths and show young people that manufacturing is more than a job—it’s a pathway to building something lasting.

Building the Future—Together

Organizations like the Kawartha Manufacturers Association (KMA) a local association, offers personalized support and attention to each member. We understand the local manufacturing landscape and provide targeted networking opportunities that foster meaningful connections.

• Advocate for local manufacturers

• Create networking and learning opportunities

• Promote careers in the skilled trades and manufacturing to youth

• Support each other

Final Word

Manufacturing isn’t just about making things—it’s about shaping communities, launching careers, and building a better future. In Peterborough and the Kawarthas, we have the tools, the talent, and the history.

Now we need the next generation to step up and help shape what comes next.

Guest Column from Sherry Hill, Secretary of Kawartha Manufacturers Association and CFO at Peterboro Matboards Inc.

Content provided by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring One Fine Food, Literary Festival, Wild Rock Outfitters and The Play Spot PTBO

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

One Fine Food has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining by OpenTable.

The list is made by analyzing more than 1 million diner reviews and metrics to help Canadians make the most of dining out this patio season. One Fine Food offers a unique dining experience that caters to everyone from shoppers taking a break while checking out their delicious market to foodies seeking a delicious meal in a casual setting. The restaurant sources authentic Italian flavours and recipes. The open kitchen, interactive dining experience, and wood-fired pizza oven add to the ambience. Drop by 800 Erskine Ave. in Peterborough and check out one of Canada’s best patios.

The Lakefield Literary Festival is back July 18 to 19 at Lakefield College School with a children’s tent in downtown Lakefield.

New this year is a shuttle service sponsored by Selwyn Township, which runs from Trent University and stops in Lakefield before reaching Lakefield College School. Once again there’s an impressive lineup and a meet the author reception. The Lakefield Literary Festival showcases Canadian authors and promotes the joy of reading and writing among children and adults. Tickets are available at LakefieldLiteraryFestival.com or drop by Happenstance Books and Yarns in Lakefield.

Wild Rock Outfitters have launched Wild Again, a trade-in and resale program designed to extend the life of outdoor gear while fostering community and environmental stewardship.

The in-store phase one is up and running while the national online platform will launch this summer. Wild Rock invites customers to declutter and trade in lightly used apparel and equipment in exchange for store credit. Participants can also choose to donate their credit to Wild Rock’s ComPassion Project, which supports local social justice and environmental organizations. Check out the basement at Wild Rock for some quality pre-loved gear.

Looking for a place to take your kid where they can explore, play and socialize? The Play Spot PTBO offers just that.

Located at 1524 Lansdowne St. W. Unit 1B in Peterborough, The Play Spot PTBO offers an innovative and safe environment for children to engage in physical, cognitive and social development through play. The aim is to provide a sense of community among families. Daily, weekly, and monthly passes are available. They also offer party packages.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to joel@pkchamber.ca.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Armour Heights Pharmacy, ProspHER, Millbrook Fit and Cormor

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Armour Heights Pharmacy, a new Guardian Pharmacy, is open in East City at 195 Hunter St. E. at the corner of Hunter Street and Armour Road.

The owner and manager Praneet Naik has been a resident of Peterborough for 25 years and achieved his Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management in Boston. He is looking forward to assisting with any medication or health concerns you may have. They offer free prescription delivery, vaccinations and immunizations, compliance blister packaging, minor ailments consultations, and medication reviews. Drop by or visit them online at armourheightspharmacy.com.

There’s a new event for women of all ages to build a life of prosperity and financial independence.

ProspHER will be held June 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Pie-Eyed Monk in Lindsay. It features speakers Julie Brown of Tabono Therapy and Alanna Abramsky of Broad Money and includes networking opportunities, charcuterie, goal-setting resources, door prizes, and more. ProspHER was founded by Jess Shea of Kawartha Mortgage Group and Laura Kennedy of Elevate Communications and Events to focus on aligning wealth, health and wisdom for women of all ages and stages of life. You can find out more on Instagram at PropHER.ca.

Cavan Monaghan has its first fitness studio, Millbrook Fit, which officially opened last week.

It’s your destination for top-tier workouts, expert trainers, and a community that’s all about strength, motivation, and results. They offer programs for everyone, from beginners to fitness pros. Their facility includes 24/7 access to their state-of-the-art gym, opportunities for one-on-one coaching to build your personalized plan, and focused small group classes designed to challenge and connect. Drop by 40 King St. E. in Millbrook and see what Millbrook Fit has to offer.

It's exciting when we see local businesses leading the way with innovative technology.

Cormor has teamed up with Habitat for Humanity Peterborough and Kawartha Region for a first-of-its-kind 3D printed home. Cormor uses large-scale 3D concrete printers that quickly build long-lasting, high-quality, and sustainable buildings. The partnership with Habitat provides an opportunity to use this innovative construction technique to provide a local family with the opportunity for affordable homeownership.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to joel@pkchamber.ca.

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Voice of Business: Government In Action

On this week’s Voice of Business, we’re taking a closer look at how the Government of Ontario has responded to the growing economic pressure caused by U.S.-imposed tariffs and international uncertainty.

While these measures won’t solve all challenges overnight, and many businesses are still struggling, Ontario’s action represent significant steps in addressing the stress and pressures facing various industries.

It often takes a crisis for us to evolve, and this trade war forced that evolution to happen sooner than expected.

Just last month, Ontario led the way in removing several interprovincial trade barriers, a long-standing issue that has held back economic efficiency and domestic trade. By doing so, the province opened new pathways for goods, services, and talent to flow more freely across the country, a move that reduces our overreliance on the U.S. market and strengthens internal Canadian trade.

Ontario has also taken further action on multiple fronts to support local businesses and future-proof our economy.

One key step is a $750 million investment in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education across post-secondary institutions. This funding will support up to 20,500 new student seats per year, helping Ontario build a future-ready workforce in critical industries like advanced manufacturing, clean tech, and data science. As global demand rises for tech and engineering talent, this investment will help keep Ontario competitive.

The province is also addressing a long-standing challenge around innovation ownership. A $3.39 million investment will help Ontario’s colleges and universities build stronger intellectual property (IP) capacity. This means research breakthroughs developed here are more likely to stay in the province, creating homegrown companies and jobs. It also protects Ontario from the common practice of IP being owned by foreign corporations through research partnerships, ensuring that the economic value of innovation benefits Ontarians first.

To alleviate immediate financial pressure, Ontario has announced $11 billion in tariff relief and cost-saving measures. This includes $9 billion in suspended interest and penalties on various provincial taxes, including the Employer Health Tax and levies on insurance, gas, alcohol, and tobacco. In addition, $2 billion in WSIB rebates are being returned to businesses to help offset operating costs. Together, these moves will allow more businesses to retain staff, invest in operations, and weather economic uncertainty.

The province is also expanding the Skills Development Fund by $1 billion over three years, ringing the fund’s total to $2.5 billion. This investment will help retrain and upskill Ontario workers, especially those affected by layoffs tied to tariff pressures. Whether transitioning into trades, healthcare, or other growing sectors, workers will be supported in securing good-paying jobs with long-term potential.

These investments, from education and innovation to cost relief and workforce development, represent a strategic shift. Ontario is building a future-proofing our economy if a trade war does reappear in the future. While challenges remain, these efforts lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity, job growth, and economic resilience.

For businesses, these measures open new opportunities to access skilled talent, manage costs, and stay competitive. For workers, they offer greater stability and upward mobility during uncertain times. At a broader level, Ontario’s investment in intellectual property is a strategic step toward addressing Canada’s productivity crisis, helping to ensure that innovations developed here stay here, fueling domestic growth and job creation. While no policy can solve every challenge overnight, these initiatives target critical areas in need of support. They provide relief for vulnerable industries like auto and steel, while also empowering post-secondary institutions to play a central role in developing a resilient, future-ready workforce to meet the demands of tomorrow’s economy and keep high-quality jobs in Ontario.

Content provided by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Trent University, Kawartha Manufacturers, Opus Tribute Group and Gardens Plus

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

There’s a new micro credential program from Trent University that is designed for women moving into leadership positions in government, public administration, and non-profits.

The Women's Leadership in Governance program explains some of the challenges women leaders face in public service. Further, it engages strategies and behaviours to employ toward enabling women leaders to lead successfully. The course starts soon, so reach out to Trent University if you’re interested.

The Kawartha Manufacturers are hosting a Finance for Non-Finance People workshop at Savage Arms in Lakefield on May 14 from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

It’s aimed at manufacturing supply chain supervisors, managers, and technical or project managers without formal business or finance training. The workshop will provide useful concepts to help influence the financial position of your company. A tour of Savage Arms will follow. There is a non-member rate for the workshop, or you can sign up for a KMA membership.

Little Lake Cemetery Company, a longstanding leader in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, has rebranded as Opus Tribute Group.

The new name reflects a broader vision and renewed commitment to honouring life stories with compassion, dignity, and personalized care. The company goes back 175 years and now encompasses a growing network of cemetery, memorial, and funeral service providers, including Highland Park Funeral Centre, Little Lake Cemetery, Highland Park Cemetery, Mill Valley Funeral and Cremation Centre in Millbrook, Lakeland Funeral and Cremation Centre in Lindsay, and Trent Cremation Services.

This week we’re highlighting a locally grown business.

A big congratulations to Gardens Plus on winning the Canadian Choice Awards for Garden Centre in Peterborough. Gardens Plus is now in its 28th season. Not only is it the place to go as you start planting your gardens, but they are also selling gardening books with all proceeds going to the Survivors Abreast team for the month of May. They have a great selection of easy-care perennials like hostas, daylilies, coral bell, and coneflower. Check out Gardens Plus at 136 County Rd. 4 in Donwood.

We have a correction to a previous edition. While POI Peterborough is happy to help find solutions for your workplace, they do not sell pencils and paperclips.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to joel@pkchamber.ca.

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JA Northern and Eastern Ontario Business Hall of Fame Celebrates 2025 Kawartha Lakes Inductees

JA Northern and Eastern Ontario (JA-NEO) celebrated its five local business owners at its third annual JA-NEO Business Hall of Fame & Induction Ceremony for Kawartha Lakes at Mackey Celebrations on Thursday.

Gordon A. Ferguson (top left), The Poole Family (top right), Sherry Peel (bottom right) and Tim Wisener (bottom right). The Torrey Family (not pictured). Photo courtesy of Geoff Coleman, Lindsay Advocate and JA-Neo.

“The Business Hall of Fame & Induction Ceremony will recognize the City of Kawartha Lakes exceptional business leaders who have strengthened the local economy and their community through their extraordinary accomplishments,” said John McNutt, JA-NEO President amd CEO. “I want to personally congratulate each of tonight’s honorees. They truly are exemplary individuals, widely respected for their integrity, business acumen, and community contributions, and they are inspiration to us all.”

This year’s honourees include:

• Gordon A. Ferguson - Northern Casket

• The Poole Family - Buckeye Marine

• Sherry Peel - Bigley’s Shoes and Clothing  

• Tim Wisener - The Grove Theatre

• The Torrey Family - Torrey-Dale Farms

“The JA-NEO Business Hall of Fame not only focuses on celebrating outstanding local business leaders from across our community, it also plays an essential role in helping to prepare and inspire the next generation,” explained McNutt. “All of the proceeds raised from tonight’s event will help JA meet the growing demand for our financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship educational programs for students.”

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Lakefield Farmers’ Market Opening Day Starts This Thursday

The Lakefield Farmers’ Market returns for 2025 starting this Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, behind the Lakefield Arena on 20 Concession St.

Photo courtesy of the Lakefield Farmers’ Market.

Returning vendors this year include: A1 Gluten Free Gals, Bobcaygeon Brewing Company, Buns & Sweets, Carolina Coffee, Cedar Grove Organic Farm, Grandma Needled It, Jen’s Home Baking, Jess’s Kitchen, LaMesita Restaurante, Leahy Stock Farm, Madrigal Gardens, McLean Berry Farm, Ontario Cheese Union, Otonabee Apiary, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Purple Tongue Hot Sauce, The Jam Cupboard, Wagner Maple Products, Washburn Island Soaps and Yellow House Bees.

Kawartha Lakes Flower Farm and Mr. & Mrs. Perogie are new to this year's market.

In addition to weekly vendors, the market will welcome pop-up vendors throughout the season, including: Brad’s Knife Sharpening, Otonabee River Craft Co., Selwyn Makerspace, The Doggery, Juniper’s Wild Apothecary, and Munchies Gourmet Kettlecorn.

Opening Day festivities include a visit from Shifting Gears and B!KE: The Community Bike Shop. Market visitors can participate in the May Challenge, learn more about sustainable travel, and enjoy free bike tune-ups and giveaways.

Live music is also at opening day.

The market runs every Thursday from May 15 to October 30, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.

Shoppers are also invited to a special Mother’s Day Market this Sundaymfrom 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. beside The Village Inn, 39 Queen St. in Downtown Lakefield.

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Local Photographer Opens New Studio In Downtown Peterborough

Studio 5, a new photography studio, has opened its doors to the public with a grand opening in Downtown Peterborough on Water Street.

Le Franc was recently nominated for a Luminary Award, recognizing her early accomplishments and promising future in the local business landscape. Photo courtesy of Kayla Le Franc Photo.

Founded by Kayla Le Franc, a Peterborough-based portrait photographer, she held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion on Friday.

“Standing there as a mom, a wife, and a woman building something from the ground up… and having my son cut the ribbon with me — that was everything,” said Le Franc. “I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from the Peterborough community. The guidance from Community Futures through the Starter Company Plus program has been invaluable, and I deeply appreciate the continued support and encouragement from the Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.”

“Watching Kayla open her own studio space just months after graduating from the Starter Company Plus program is nothing short of inspiring,” said Rose Terry, Community Futures Peterborough Business Advisory Centre manager. “It was originally part of her five-year plan, but she’s moved with such clarity, confidence, and success that she launched far ahead of schedule. I couldn’t be prouder of the determination and drive she’s shown. She’s building something truly special, and it’s only the beginning.”

Studio 5 is also open to other professionals for rent such as photographers, videographers, content creators and more. Le Franc says the venue has bright, flexible spaceand comes equipped with natural light, a ring light, clean backdrop walls and other tools ideal for visual storytelling.

“Kayla’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when creative entrepreneurs are given the support and space to grow,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “By opening Studio 5 in the heart of downtown, she’s not only building a business — she’s contributing to the heartbeat of our creative community. The DBIA is proud to support visionaries like Kayla.”

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East City Village Business Improvement Area and Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Announce One-Year Pilot Merger

The East City Village Business Improvement Area (VBIA) has merged with Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) under a one-year pilot agreement, announced on Tuesday.

The DBIA now represents businesses on both sides of the Otonabee River, marking the first time in its 44-year history that the original boundary has been expanded for a one-year pilot. File Photo.

According to a press release the merger aims to unite two distinct districts under a shared vision for local business support, advocacy and community development.

This allows East City businesses to participate in DBIA-run programs and promotions.

“We’re thrilled to welcome East City’s vibrant business community into the DBIA. East City has always been a beloved and essential part of Peterborough with a strong sense of place,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “We’re excited to bring together two really vibrant and connected communities to elevate our collective impact and work together to strengthen our local economy. This merger will create even more opportunities for businesses to thrive. I think this is a really exciting next step in Peterborough’s story.”

The Peterborough DBIA was established in 1981 to support and revitalize the downtown core. East City was not included in the original map due to its distinct geography and character according to VBIA. In the following years, East City merchants created their own volunteer-led BIA to advocate for area improvements, while maintaining a separate identity and operation.

“This merger represents an opportunity for East City to access new tools and larger resources, while still celebrating the charm and community that makes our side of the river so special,” said Cassia Piper, VBIA chair. “The Village BIA has been shaped by neighbours who care deeply about their community. Merging with the DBIA builds on that legacy. It opens new doors and offers more chances to be a part of the big-picture vision for downtown.”

The merger means East City businesses will now be included in initiatives such as the Boro Gift Card program and the annual Holiday Shopping Passport.

During the pilot period, the DBIA will work closely with East City business owners to ensure local priorities are recognized, supported and celebrated.

“This isn’t about dissolving identities, it’s about strengthening them,” said Mazloum. “We believe this partnership will amplify what makes East City unique while connecting these unique communities through shared opportunity.”

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