Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring JA-NEO, Kawartha Montessori, Peterborough Symphony Orchestra and Peterborough Chamber

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…

Nominations are open for Junior Achievement’s Business Hall of Fame.

It’s an opportunity to recognize businesses from across Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes who have helped shape our local economy and inspired others through their achievements. Recipients are people who embody a legacy of excellence, displaying unwavering commitment, leadership, and innovation throughout their careers. Visit ja-neo.org to nominate a deserving business in our community. The deadline for nominations is Nov. 29.

Kawartha Montessori School is hosting an open house at their beautiful location at 2247 Burnham Line in Otonabee South Monaghan on Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon.

This is a good opportunity to check out the school if you’re considering Montessori for your child or just curious about their unique learning environment. You will have an opportunity to explore their classrooms and facilities, meet their dedicated teachers, learn about Montessori curriculum and find out how they nurture independent, confident and lifelong learners.

Get an early start on your gift buying and support Peterborough Symphony Orchestra at the same time by bidding on their auction items.

The online auction launched earlier in October and will continue to 4 p.m. on Nov. 2. Starting at 6:30 p.m. that evening, bidding will continue in person at the PSO concert at Showplace and conclude at the post-concert reception in the Cogeco Studio. One of Canada’s foremost piano virtuosos, David Jalbert will be joining the orchestra that evening. Visit thepso.org for more information.

Want to be part of the conversation on the direction of tourism in Peterborough County?

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Peterborough County to hold a series of Tourism Talks at various locations. These roundtable discussions are meant to engage local businesses that are involved in, rely on, and otherwise impacted by tourism in the County. We want to get a better understanding of the needs of local businesses and what we can do to create a stronger, thriving local tourism sector for many years to come.

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Don't Be Scared of 'Ghost Taco' As They Host Grand Opening Of New Peterborough Location

Peterborough’s newest spot for one of Mexico’s most popular food, ‘Ghost Taco’ held its grand opening at its location at 110 Chandler Cres. on Friday morning.

(From left to right) Samantha Buckley, Ghost Taco co-founder and CEO, Addison Tomas and Chef Matt Basille doing the ‘Ghost Taco Challenge’, testing customers spicy limits with a ghost pepper consomme. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The grand opening opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Jeff Leal, Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP and the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce.

The event featured merchandise giveaways, a social media photo contest, raffles, drink samples (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and live cooking demos from chef Matt Basille.

Guests could participate in the ‘Ghost Taco Challenge’ to test their spice tolerance with the restaurant’s latest creation, a consommé made from ghost peppers.

The restaurant is known for experimenting with traditional tacos. It offers more familiar styles, such as ‘Carnita’ (pulled pork) and Baja fish but also original concepts such as ‘Crispy Korean Tofu’ and ‘Charred Brussels.’

Bowls, sides and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), including their own brand of beer called ‘Ghost Taco Cerveza,’ are also available.

The grand opening showcased their new limited offer: ‘The Ghost Taco,’ a birria beef and cream cheese taco in a deep-fried tortilla with a ghost pepper consommé.

“We call ourselves 'unauthentic Mexican' largely because it gives us the chance to really experiment with different flavours and different concepts,” explained Samantha Buckley, Ghost Taco co-founder and CEO. “There really is something for every flavour profile and they're all chef-inspired gourmet creations so it's not your typical build-your-own taco place.”

Tomas (left) checks in on Liam O’Connor of the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce (right) for social media during the ‘Ghost Taco Challenge’. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Ghost Taco was created after some creative pivoting from Buckley during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We own a couple full-service restaurants in Newmarket and a boutique event venue and in the middle of Covid, we were going into the second lockdown, we got shut down at our event venue and we just testing different take-out concepts,” she explained. “We figured, 'you know, what's really missing in the market?' and it's gourmet tacos in a quick-service setting.”

Through testing, social media and a pop-up, the restaurant started a hole in the wall before blowing up which started Ghost Taco.

The small franchise began in Newmarket and opened a second location in Vaughan. Peterborough has become home to its third restaurant and Whitby is planned to be the fourth in the winter next year.

“Jamie, one of our operators here in Peterborough, he really loved the brand and he inquired with us about what we could do to get one of these in Peterborough,” said Buckley. “It was always on our radar. We have ties to Peterborough through our family. You have such a family small-business feel so it really was the perfect fit for us.”

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Ontario Government Invests $59,200 to Improve Buckhorn Community Centre's Accessibility and Support

The Ontario Government is funding $59,200 to improve accessibility and support for everyone at the Buckhorn Community Centre, announced on Friday afternoon.

Since the Program’s inception in 2020, Ontario has provided over $5 million to support 107 projects promoting inclusivity and accessibility across the province. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Those with disabilities and limited mobility are often faced with obstacles or unwelcoming environments when they try to use outdoor spaces,” said Dave Smith Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “This grant will allow individuals to have access to the Buckhorn Community Centre's Festival Park that will enable them to enjoy activities with their friends and families for years to come.”

The funding is part of the Inclusive Community Grant that provides funding of up to $60,000 for projects of all ages and abilities to live healthy, active and independent lives.

“The Buckhorn Community Centre has received funding to improve outdoor accessibility and inclusivity,” said Molly Kriksic, Buckhorn Community Centre Volunteer Board of Directors. “Visitors can look forward to new walkways, seating, gardens, and raised beds, enhancing the BCC's ability to offer community-focused programs and events.”

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Jamie Langenbrunner Becomes 10th Alumnus to be Honoured by Petes with Banner Raising; Peterborough Falls to Kingston 6-4

In a night honouring two-time Stanley Cup Champion Jamie Langenbrunner, the Peterborough Petes remain winless, falling 6-4 to the Kingston Frontenacs at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday night.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

Before the game, had a Banner Raising Ceremony for Langenbrunner, highlighting his time with the Petes and 18-year career in the NHL.

He is the 10th alumnus to be honoured by the Petes, with his banner joining the likes of Bob Gainey, Chris Pronger, Roger Neilson, Scotty Bowman, Dick Todd, Mickey Redmond, Steve Yzerman, Larry Murphy and Colin Campbell.

Langenbrunner was joined on the ice by the Petes Board of Directors, former Petes General Manager Jeff Twohey, Alumni with Distinction Bob Gainey and Dick Todd, as well as his family and former billets.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

The Petes opened the scoring with a goal from defenceman Carson Cameron who corraled a loose puck in the offensive zone and ripped it past Kingston goaltender Mason Vaccari for a 1-0 lead. Ten minutes later, the Frontenacs rung off two goals and took a 2-1 lead after the first period.

Thanks to Aiden Young on the power play, Peterborough struck early again in the second. He was able to tip his stick on the puck after a deflected shot and popped in the air before it came down and into the net for a tie game. But the period was a repeat of the last and Kingston scored another two goals for a 4-2 lead after two.

This time, Kingston struck first to further extend their lead. Both teams had alternated goals as Young scored his second of the same to make it 5-3. Kingston scored roughly seven minutes later and Nico Addy added a late tally with eight seconds in regulation but Kingston kept Peterborough winless for the 6-4 win.

The Petes hit the road to Brantford to take on the Bulldogs on Saturday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Brantford Civic Centre

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Bridgenorth Man Missing After Being Dropped Off at Transit Station

The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 71-year-old Bridgenorth man Paul Scott, announced missing on Friday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

He was last seen on Tuesday when he was dropped off at the Transit station in Peterborough. He intended to make his way to Oakville and may still be in that area of the GTA. Family and police are concerned for his well-being as he suffers from confusion.

He is described as:

• Male

• White

• Brown hair with a grey moustache

• 5’9

• Very thin

• Last seen wearing a dark hoody, jeans, backpack and slippers

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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PRHC Foundation Seeking Volunteer Campaign Ambassadors

The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation seeks volunteer ambassadors for the Foundation’s Campaign for PRHC.

(From left to right) Lesley Heighway, President & CEO; Jane Lovett, Manager, Community Giving & Engagement: and Hanna Méthot, Community Giving & Engagement Coordinator. Representatives of the PRHC Foundation team are headed out into the community to recruit Campaign for PRHC Ambassadors, gather patient and donor stories and share how donor support is shaping the future of patient care at PRHC. Photo courtesy of PRHC.

Everyone is welcome as an ambassador, according to Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation President & CEO.

“Our family, friends, and neighbours from across the region have told us that they think of PRHC as a cornerstone of the community, where the excellent care they received was part of some of the most meaningful moments of their lives,” she said. “We’re grateful that our supporters want to share their stories and inspire others.”

Volunteers help raise the funds needed to empower world-class care close to home, introduce lifesaving services, attract top healthcare professionals and inspire solutions to the hospital's critical challenges according to a press release.

“The ambassadors program will support that – connecting volunteers enthusiastic about our donorfunded regional hospital and the health and future of our area, who want to celebrate what PRHC means to them and what’s possible through the power of community,” said Heighway. “If you have a story about the great care you received, a message for staff, or want to say thanks and connect with our community through a fundraising event, please let us know. We want to help you share that passion.”

To volunteer as a campaign ambassador, email foundationeventsonline@prhc.on.ca or call 705-876-5000.

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Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society’s Board of Directors Tender Resignation

The Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society’s entire Board of Directors resigned on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society.

According to a press release, the resignations are effective Oct. 23rd. They follow the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services’ decision to install a supervisor.

The following is the full statement:

It is with profound sadness that all Members of the Board of Directors for the Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society have tendered their resignation, effective October 23, 2024.

We were notified on October 22nd that the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services intended to install a Supervisor on October 23rd, as provided for in legislation (Child, Youth and Family Services Act). Board Members can no longer meet their fiduciary duty when this happens.

The Board worked diligently to avert this from happening; however, the difficulties we experienced are echoed across the sector and were not repairable within the structures and guidelines we must work within.

Although there will be difficult days ahead, we know that the staff and leadership team at Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society will continue to provide excellent care and service to the children, youth and families in our communities.

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Hometown PTBO: Heidi Westbye Competing At the International Meeting of Young Beekeepers in Dubai and Raising Funds For Her Trip

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with 15-year-old Heidi Westbye about being selected to compete in the International Meeting of Young Beekeepers in Dubai this December for Team Canada, how she got into beekeeping and how she is raising money to fund her trip.

To donate to Heidi and her team's cause, follow the link.

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Three Peterborough Petes Named to NHL Central Scouting Preliminary Players to Watch List

Peterborough Petes Carson Cameron, Caden Taylor and Aiden Young have made the NHL Central Scouting’s annual Preliminary Players to Watch List for the 2025 NHL Draft, announced on Wednesday.

Photos courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

Cameron, a 2007-born defenceman, was selected by the Petes in the first round, 13th overall, of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection out of the Central Ontario Wolves organization. He has appeared in 68 OHL games with the Petes, scoring five goals and adding 22 assists for 27 points. Last season, the Bobcaygeon native helped Canada White win Gold at the 2023 World U17 Hockey Challenge in Charlottetown, PEI. Cameron received a ‘C’ rating in the Players to Watch list, indicating a potential fourth-fifth-round candidate in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Taylor, a 2007-born forward from Shanty Bay, Ont., was originally drafted by the Sudbury Wolves in the first round, ninth overall, in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection out of the Mississauga Senators U16s. He was acquired by the Petes from the Wolves on Jan. 9 in exchange for defenceman and former captain Donovan McCoy. In 67 OHL games between Wolves and Petes, Taylor has scored 15 goals and added 11 assists for 26 points. Taylor received a ‘C’ rating in the Players to Watch list, indicating a potential fourth-fifth-round candidate in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Young, a 2007-born forward from London, was selected by the Saginaw Spirit in the first round, 16th overall, of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the London Jr. Knights U16s. He was acquired by the Petes along with three picks on Jan. 8, in exchange for Montreal Canadiens prospect Owen Beck. Through 67 OHL games between the Spirit and Petes, Young has scored three goals and added 12 assists for 15 points. Young received a ‘W’ rating in the Players to Watch list, indicating a potential sixth-seventh-round candidate in the 2025 NHL Draft.

The Petes are back in action on Thursday when they host the Kingston Frontenacs at 7:05 p.m. Before the game, the organization will honour alumnus and two-time Stanley Cup Champion Jamie Langenbrunner with a banner-raising ceremony. Langenbrunner will be in attendance to take part in the ceremony, which will feature speeches from dignitaries, a video tribute and banner-raising.

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Voice of Business: The Importance of Safeguarding Our Intellectual Property

This week on the Voice of Business, we are diving into an important yet often overlooked topic: Intellectual Property (IP).

IP refers to creations of the mind, like inventions or artistic works, which are increasingly important in today's growing ‘ideas economy.’ This economy is centred around intangible assets like software, technology, and digital innovations. Recently, Jim Balsillie, former co-CEO of BlackBerry, discussed on CBC the urgency of safeguarding Canada’s intellectual property in our evolving economy.

We encounter intellectual property every day, from the apps we use—like Facebook, Netflix, or Microsoft Office. We also observe our reliance on IP with Tesla’s autonomous driving systems or user interfaces with our phones. For business owners, it’s essential to protect their IP, as it shields their innovations from competitors and creates potential revenue streams through licensing agreements. However, many businesses, particularly those in the tech sector, underestimate the importance of protecting their intangible assets.

Balsillie’s podcast appearance emphasizes the consequences of not prioritizing IP protection, which are evident in Canada’s lagging productivity. He warns that foreign companies are buying Canadian-owned IP, which could push Canada to rank last among OECD countries in terms of productivity. According to Balsillie, the issue isn’t who invents these technologies, but rather who owns the rights to them. As more Canadian IP is sold to foreign companies, the potential for foreign entities to shape the future of Canadian industries grows. This could lead to significant changes, including headquarters relocating outside of Canada and essential jobs being outsourced abroad.

The elephant in the room, Balsillie notes, lies in the lack of a legislative framework that incentivizes businesses to retain their IP domestically. On top of that, there’s a gap in educating corporations about the value of IP and how to manage it effectively. He highlights how other countries, such as China, are far ahead in patent filings for technologies like artificial intelligence. China has filed 400,000 AI-related patents, while Canada on an industry wide scale has filed roughly 40,000. This further illustrates how other countries are actively protecting their innovations, giving them a competitive edge in the global market.

Balsillie also draws attention to the sharp growth of the intangible economy, which now makes up for 92% of the value in the Standard & Poor's 500 index—up from just 17%. This rapid growth will only continue, making it even more important for Canada to protect its intellectual property. He argues that Canada must foster a more attractive business environment to encourage companies to hold their IP rather than sell it to foreign competitors. While he doesn’t go into detail, Balsillie suggests we should learn from international models of legislation regarding IP retainment.

Another concerning trend is the growing number of Canadian pension funds being invested abroad. Balsillie points out that if our own investors are placing their money outside of Canada, it should be a wake-up call that our market is not offering the support needed for businesses togrow and thrive. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted strategy that includes educating businesses about IP and creating a market that rewards innovation and encourages companies to keep their IP in Canada.

Finally, whether you are a large tech company or a small local business it is important business owners are aware of the advantages of their IP rights. Not only does keeping IP retain jobs in Canada- it also boosts our economy. Balsillie stresses the need for a comprehensive strategy to educate businesses about the benefits of protecting their intellectual property and fostering an attractive market environment. By doing so, Canada can ensure its productivity stays competitive and hold onto its valuable innovations!

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

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