Peterborough Blogs
PTBOSpotlight: Peterborough Used Tires
/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 Peterborough Used Tires.
Established in 2003, Peterborough Used Tires had exclusively sold and serviced quality used tires. In 2005, at the customers' request, the business began carrying and selling new tires.
“We do everything tires. We sell used and new tires and rims of all brands and sizes for automotive needs. We also repair, balance and install tires and new this year we provide seasonal storage,” said Chris of Peterborough Used Tires. “We carry the Kawartha's largest inventory of quality used tires with a Lifetime Warranty included as long as you own your car. We also partner with the leading distributors in Ontario to provide all brands and models of new tires which can be ordered for same or next day delivery.
In 2012, Peterborough relocated to a 10,000 sq/ft. facility at 810 Rye St.
“We returned to what we do best: providing the best and biggest variety of tires to customers and repairing tires, we no longer do general auto repairs and have put all of our focus on tires,” said Chris. “We also added custom wheels and accessories to our lineup. Fast forward to now, we’ve come a long way in the 20 years we’ve served Peterborough and the surrounding area, and we only have our customers to thank.”
In 2025, Peterborough Used Tires was acquired with several enhancements made.
“We created a new brand logo and gave the entire store a facelift. We have upgraded all of our technology, inventory databases, scheduling and pricing tools,” said Chris. “We also expanded our services to include seasonal storage of tires as well as a Lifetime Road Hazard Warranty included with every purchase.”
“It has been a very busy and productive year,” concluded Chris. “We can’t thank our loyal customers enough for continuing to support our growth.
To learn more about Peterborough Used Tires, find it online:
Website: www.peterboroughusedtires.ca
Instagram: @ptbo.usedtires
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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
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: 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.”
