Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario Appoint New CAO

Kevin Forrest has been appointed the new Chief Administrative Officer of Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (STSCO), effective Dec. 1, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNCCSDB.

Forrest has nearly three decades of experience in student transportation and community service in the role, including two decades within STSCO according to a press release. He has served in a variety of positions since the consortium was established in 2005, beginning as a Transportation Route Supervisor, a Transportation Safety Lead and most recently as Manager of Operations.

Before joining STSCO, Forrest worked as a Transportation Route Supervisor for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board from 2003 to 2005. His career in transportation began in 1997 at Trentway-Wagar Inc., where he later advanced to Manager of the Peterborough School Bus Division for Coach Canada. Before that, he served his community as a civilian radio operator with the Ontario Provincial Police.

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chief Administrative Officer for STSCO,” said Forrest. “Having spent many years working within this organization and alongside our community partners, I believe that student transportation is a community effort. I am grateful for the ongoing partnership between STSCO and the families of our students, the local bus and taxi operators and their staff, our school boards, trustees and school teams, as well as many other local agencies. By working together, we can continue to support safe, dependable travel for our students each and every day.”

He succeeds Roy Wierenga, who is retiring from the position.

Wierenga served as STSCO’s CAO since 2023 and has been involved in Ontario student transportation for over 35 years. His early work involved Trentway-Wagar Bus Lines and roles with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, STSCO in 2005 and leadership positions with both the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority and Student Transportation of Peel Region.

Wierenga played a role in provincial student transportation initiatives including the implementation of Ontario’s amber warning light system and contributing to committees within the Ontario Association of School Business Officials and the Canadian Standards Association.

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PTBOSpotlight: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles

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 Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles. It is owned and operated by Ross Elson.

Located on 182 Charlotte St. in Downtown Peterborough, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles has autographed memorabilia, jerseys, collectible sports cards and more.

“We look forward to building a community of collectors right here in Peterborough, offering an extensive inventory of sports cards, autographed memorabilia, jerseys and more,” said Elson. “Our team offer their experience and knowledge to help you find what you are looking for. Whether you are collecting your favourite team, completing your checklist or on the hunt for rare cards or memorabilia.”

Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles have joined forces with MNT Grading Inc. and is now also an Authorized PSA Dealer. They provide a full-service drop-off for your collectible sports cards to be graded. Grading your cards protects your investment and has been proven to increase the value of cards in the secondary market.

“As far as services go, being an authorized PSA Dealer is a very big deal for a shop, we are the only one in our area and it took us the better part of a year to go through the process of becoming authorized,” explained Elson.

Elson's passion for collecting hockey cards started when he was a kid, starting with the 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee set. After having children, his interest was reinvigorated and he collected cards with them. After years of collecting and visiting expos, the hobby quickly grew into a business which launched in 2019.

While you can collect from your favourite major sports teams, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles also adds in the local flavour as a spot to collect Peterborough Petes apparel, memorabilia and more.

“We have an excellent relationship with the Peterborough Petes and after each game we sponsor and Autograph Signing Table,” explained Elson. “Kids, Families, and Fans line up after the game for a different payer each night who comes out to sign autographs. With the Petes we provide co-branded Peterborough Petes Hockey Cards free of charge to the fans for the specific player that participates each night. In addition, fans can bring their own memorabilia; such as a jersey or puck for the player to sign, also free of charge.”

Want to get together with other collectors to find that special something? Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles regularly host trade nights at the shop for those to get together during the NHL season and share in the hobby.

To learn more about Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles, find it online:

Website: www.sportcollectibles.ca
Facebook: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles

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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

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Railyard Development On East City's Hunter Street Officially Complete

Ashburnham Realty’s Railyard Development in East City on Hunter Street has officially been completed.

Photo courtesy of Ashburnham Realty.

“Our team is very happy to see the results of their efforts, and we are very fortunate to have long standing relationships with the local trades used,” said Paul Bennett, Ashburnham Realty owner.

With the final building now complete, half of the building has already been leased. Decorated by Michelle Beattie and Leon’s Peterborough, there are four furnished suites currently available for living.

“The tenants within the Railyard buildings have really taken ownership and created a community atmosphere offering game nights, potlucks and holiday-themed gatherings,” said Bennett. “There are groups of residents that bike together while others enjoy a leisurely walk along the trail. What we admire most about these buildings is that everyone knows your name and is welcoming.”

Photo courtesy of Ashburnham Realty.

The Railyard has occupants such as BMO Wealth Management, Duane Grant Thornton offices and The Railyard Cafe.

Nearby amenities include Ashburnham Ale House Foodland Grocery Store, Hard Winter Bakery, Black’s Distillery, Law & Orders and more.

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Burnham Street In Lakefield Reopened; Kawartha Home Hardware Gets Temporary Location

The Township of Selwyn has reopened Burnham Street in Lakefield to traffic, following the community’s recovery from the Home Hardware fire.

pHOTO COURTESY OF kAWARTHA hOME hARDWARE.

This reopening, along with Queen Street and Burnham Street, grants full access through the Village’s downtown core. Pedestrian detours remain in place along the section of Queen and Burnham Streets immediately adjacent to the fire-affected site, where fencing will stay up until all site restoration activities are complete.

The Township is now working to reinstall two streetlight poles and fixtures that were removed for firefighter safety.

Home Hardware is opening a pop-up store downtown at 25 Queen St., according to a Facebook post on Tuesday. The store will have a paint department, their popular hardware essentials and seasonal merchandise. An opening date has not yet been announced.

“Lakefield’s heart is its people and its sense of community,” said Mayor Sherry Senis. “As we enter this special time of year, we hope everyone will come downtown, support local businesses, and take part in the many festive activities that showcase our Village’s spirit.”

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Enter the Digital Realm As "Another World" Virtual Reality Arena Opens In Downtown Peterborough

Whether fighting a war, hunting zombies or throwing a party, the public can enter virtual reality together, as Another World VR Arena opened its doors in Downtown Peterborough early last month.

Patel demonstrates one of his 15 games, “Kernel: Bunker” using one of his virtual reality headsets. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Owned by Manan Patel and located at 379 George St. N., the business offers 15 virtual reality experiences and can accommodate parties of up to 12 people. The new entrepreneur says his company is ideal for birthday parties, work parties, group outings or even suitable for those playing alone. Patel adds he has something that caters to all kinds of tastes.

“You can play as a team, against other teams, you can play escape rooms and we have entertainment options for all ages and groups of people,” he explained.

Game options include shooters, simulations, party games, adventure games and more.

@ptbo_canada Editor David tests himself in Virtual Reality as he tries to survive in a zombie apocalypse as on of Another World VR Arena’s games. The business had recently opened early last month and has offers 15 different VR experiences. ##ptbocanada##journalism##news##fyp##virtualreality ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

Patel came to Peterborough from India as an international student six years ago. He already completed computer engineering in his homeland but did a graduate program at Fleming College. He studied virtual reality as part of his program and his interest in it developed over time.

“I started working using virtual reality and developed some of the games (in school),” he explained. “We also connected with local organizations and tried to create VR simulations for them.”

With all the knowledge he gained from school, he wanted to use that to open a business.

“For the last five years, roughly, I've been developing games for VR, so that's why I thought about doing something like this,” said Patel.

Customers can book their sessions online and can optionally select their game in advance.

The following are Another World VR Arena’s business hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• Friday: 4 p.m. to midnight

• Weekends: Noon to midnight

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DBIA Rewarding Those to Shop Local In Downtown Peterborough With Holiday Shopping Passports

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has returned its Holiday Shopping Passport program to reward those who shop local in Downtown Peterborough, announced on Wednesday.

Diners enjoying their meal at Gerti’s on Hunter Street in Downtown Peterborough. Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

This year, nearly 200 businesses are participating in the Holiday Shopping Passport program to collect stamps and win big prizes. Every $10 spent at a participating location earns a stamp, and a completed passport enters shoppers into early-bird draws on Dec. 3, 10 and 17 for a $500 Boro Gift Card, with a grand-prize draw of $1,500 on Jan. 7.

The Boro Gift Card can be used at over 150 locally owned businesses in the core, including a variety of shops, spas, cafes and restaurants.

New this year are Double Stamp Fridays, beginning Nov. 29 and continuing on Dec.5, 12, and 19. Participating businesses will reward customers with double the stamps on all eligible purchases.

“Our Holiday Shopping Passport program is about more than just prizes, it’s about celebrating the people and businesses that make downtown Peterborough special and unique," says Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “Each passport stamp represents a meaningful contribution to our community and to our local economy. This year, we’re thrilled to grow our program into East City, welcoming even more businesses and more shoppers to experience the magic of shopping local.”

“The Holiday Shopping Passport always brings such great energy downtown,” says Jacquelyn Craft, The Neighbourhood Vintage owner. “It’s a wonderful program that brings people into small businesses and creates excitement around shopping locally during the holiday season. We love being able to reward folks for choosing to spend their hard-earned money where it truly makes a difference – in supporting our community. It really is such a special time of year in our downtown core.”

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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

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Nominations Open For JA-Neo 2026 Business Hall of Fame

Nominations for JA Northern and Eastern Ontario’s (JA-NEO) 2026 Business Hall of Fame (BHF) are open for both Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lakes, announced on Tuesday.

The 2025 inductees of Ja-Neo’s Business Hall of Fame. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

JA-NEO invites the public to submit their nominations to help recognize Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lake’s exceptional business leaders who have strengthened the economy and community through their accomplishments of vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence in business. 

“JA-NEO is looking to honour individuals who, through their careers, have made a positive and everlasting impact on the community and the local business landscape,” said John McNutt, JA-NEO President and C.E.O. “By recognizing and celebrating those who make an impact today, we are helping to inspire youth who will be our community’s leaders of tomorrow.” 

Nominations close on Nov. 28 at 3:00 p.m. Nomination forms are available online. Successful nominees will be announced at a formal announcement in January and will be officially inducted into the JA-NEO Business Hall of Fame on May 7 for Kawartha Lakers and on May 26 for Peterborough.

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Local Embroidery's Custom Jacket Showcased By Toronto Blue Jays's Pitcher's Girlfriend

Local embroidery brand Petals & Thread has gotten some World Series attention, as one of its custom jackets was highlighted during Game One of the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday night.

Shannon Bryant, Petals & Thread founder with the finished design of the custom jacket. Screenshot.

Taylor Frick, the girlfriend of Blue Jays starting pitcher Trey Yesavage was spotted wearing the custom jacket during Game One of the World Series. It was featured in Sports Illustrated in an article published on Friday.

Petals & Thread founder Shannon Bryant says moments like this make her work extra meaningful.

“Seeing one of our jackets at the World Series was surreal,” said Bryant. “Our brand was built from a love of storytelling through embroidery and to see that story reach this level is something I’ll never forget.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Petals & Thread (@petals.and.thread)

Bryant posted an Instagram reel unveiling the finished jacket, tagging Frick.

The latter commented the following on the reel:

“The best of the best!!! You deserve all the recognition 🤍🤍 couldn’t be happier!”

After receiving the jacket, Bryant posted a photo of herself with it on her Instagram story.

Frick posting an Instagram story of her with the custom jacket and thanking Petals & Thread. Screenshot.

The World Series is tied at one piece in the best-of-seven series. Game three is in Los Angeles starting at 8 p.m. at Dodger Stadium.

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