Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Community Futures Peterborough, Canopy Support Services, Hello Blush and Classy Chassis

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…

Community Futures Peterborough is celebrating this year’s Summer Company cohort of our next generation of local entrepreneurs.

The Summer Company Program is an opportunity for eligible youth to receive up to $3,000 in grants to start a business locally. The program provides youth with grant dollars, business skills development, training, advice, and mentoring. This year’s cohort are:

• Lauren Connolly – Connolly Swim Academy

• Haydon Meade – Scrub Window Cleaning

• Neha Mervin – Sparks of Bollywood

• Bisma Razaque – Shirt Spark

• Spencer Toth – Farm Hands

• Teaghan Hartnett – West End Property Care

Congratulations to all of you and we look forward to watching your entrepreneurial journey.

Canopy Support Services are hosting their third annual Canopy Cares Inclusivity Carnival at Dixon Park in Peterborough on Sept.13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This is an opportunity to celebrate community, connection, and inclusion. There will be performances from Betty Baker, Sarah Cee, dancers and circus performers, a Lions barbecue, face painting, raffles and more. New this year are a dunk tank, touch a race car, tie dye, henna, and a glitter glam bar. Canopy Support Services are celebrating 50 years this year, helping people build skills, navigate challenges, and overcome barrier to achieve their best quality of life.

Nicole Lemke has launched a new business, Hello Blush, where her goal is to help women get their colour back when they just don't feel like themselves anymore.

She is a Nurse Psychotherapist who understands issues women face through her own journeys with mental health, fertility, pregnancy loss, body image, and burnout. Aside from being a nurse, she’s a mom, entrepreneur, content creator, and social media manager. Her work with Hello Blush is all about helping you be yourself again, fill your own cup, and get your colour back. Find out more at helloblush.ca.

Classy Chassis are hosting their 12th annual Ride with the Roc to Classy Chassis event on Saturday.

Riders will meet at Sir Monty’s Brewing Company in Durham at 11 a.m. and take a scenic ride to Classy Chassis near Lakefield. The event will feature a 50/50 raffle for SickKids, delicious food from Two Fat Greeks, cold beer, a Harley stunt show, and lots of prizes. Find out more at usedhd.ca.

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 Janice Simmonds, The Academy of Dance, Jigsaw Organizing Solutions and the 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…

This August, Janice Simmonds is celebrating 30 years as a Registered Massage Therapist.

During her 30 years, she has also completed the Dr. Vodder Lymphedema Course as a certified Lymphedema Therapist. In addition, she is a Reflexology Practitioner, an Acupuncturist, and a Therapeutic Touch Practitioner. Janice continues to follow the health procedures set down during the pandemic, in order to keep her patients safe and healthy. She welcomes new patients by appointment at 705-876-8561. Congratulations Janice on 30 years in business!

The Academy of Dance is coming back to Peterborough.

Director Erin Livings has created a curriculum focused on safely building strong, young dancers. She offers many different styles of dance for children aged 14 and under. Her mission is to bring back Mrs. Agar's dedication to dance education and instill confidence in her students. Registration is open for a variety of classes, including ballet, jazz, tap, acro and lyrical. Find out more at academyofdanceptbo.com.

Jigsaw Organizing Solutions is celebrating 10 years in business.

As a way to give back, owner Adeilah Dahlke has lined up three winners to receive 10 free hours of organizing in August as part of her Jigsaw Jumpstart initiative. Adeilah is a Trained Professional Organizer with a lifelong passion for helping find solutions for everyday struggles with organizing and she does so with a mind for eco-friendly solutions. She’s an expert at helping with downsizing and helping people free themselves of items hold them back. She brings an efficient way to cut through clutter that leaves you in control of what gets accomplished, where things end up, and the pace of each session. You can find her at jigsaworgsolutions.com.

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce have hired Brenda Whitehead as their new president and CEO.

Whitehead has spent the last seven years running the Port Hope and District Chamber of Commerce and prior to that she served as the director of economic and community development with the Township of Cavan Monaghan. Welcome to Peterborough, Brenda!

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 The Bell's Table, Kawartha Gymnastics, K&C Costumes and Chamber Business Hop

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 place to dine just north of Peterborough.

The Bell's Table Sandwich Shack and Catering Co is up and running at 1794 Chemong Rd. at the former Trip Taco location. Jason Bell has been working as a chef for the last 25 years, including being recognized for three years in a row as Best Diamond Local Chef. The Bell’s Table offers a selection of breakfast sandwiches served with coffee as well as four distinct sandwich options, a daily special, homemade soups and baked goods. They offer mobile catering services for events and festivals as well as special occasions like weddings. Check out The Bell's Table Sandwich Shack and Catering Co. on Chemong Road.

Kawartha Gymnastics has launched a new KG Kares Inclusion Fund to support local children who face financial or personal barriers to accessing recreational gymnastics programming.

The fund is supported through community sponsorships and donations. The first round of funding will provide a free 12-week gymnastics session starting in September. Their goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the benefits of sport, movement, and belonging. Applications for the first round of funding are open until August 15. Visit kawarthagymnastics.ca for more information.

Longtime downtown Peterborough icon K and C Costumes is back, this time at Lansdowne Place.

Kathy Blondeau has been in the business for 40 years and offers a personal touch that comes with experience. When she closed up her downtown shop she was still sitting on a lot of inventory, which she took to selling online. Now you can take advantage of deals on merchandise bought before tariffs disrupted things. Be sure to drop by K and C Costumes at Lansdowne Place where you’ll find everything from spooky Halloween outfits to cute characters your kids will recognize.

The Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Sherbrooke Street Hop on Aug. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. in downtown Peterborough.

This event is a chance to check out some unique businesses and network with your peers in the local business community. Attendees will be divided into several groups where they will hop from business to business, hearing from shop owners and exploring their locations. The event will end up on the street at the Chamber Boardroom with some refreshments. Visit pkchamber.ca for more information.

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.

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.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Pondview Estates, Of Whimsy and Wonder, Cosmic Charlie's and Lakefield Sidewalk Sale

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…

The Belsey family have launched a new wedding venue business at their Pondview Estates property.

Parents Mike and Linda own the property while their eldest daughter Samantha runs the wedding venue. Samantha has a decade of experience in the wedding industry, including her business Samantha Ann and Co. Booking Pondview includes the use of her wedding planning and coordination services. The property features a beautiful setting with a permanent tent, refurbished church pews, and thoughtful décor. Book your wedding or event at Pondview Estates for a picturesque and stress-free experience. Find out more at samanthaannandco.com.

Local artist and illustrator Susie Armstrong now has a physical shop where you find some beautiful creations.

Of Whimsy and Wonder is now open at 444 George St. N. in downtown Peterborough. The shop is a dreamy art boutique and gift shop specializing in unique art products such as prints, stationary, and custom paintings. They offer a wide selection of curated vintage and pre-loved clothing, gently used books, and antiques. Susie started the business in 2020 and it’s exciting to see it continue to grow.

This week is your last chance to go get some delicious food from Cosmic Charlie’s.

Maria and Mario Salalila are retiring after nearly 30 years. Cosmic Charlies has been a downtown icon, with original international cuisine. It will close as of July 31. Thank you, Maria and Mario, for all your hard work and all the delicious meals you’ve served the community. Drop by 170 Charlotte St. in Downtown Peterborough for your last chance to dine at Cosmic Charlie’s.

The Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Sidewalk Sale on Queen Street in Lakefield on Aug. 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The street will be closed between Reid to Albert streets for this fun outdoor shopping event where you’re sure to find some unique items, delicious food, and activities. There will be a community barbeque, fire trucks on display, activities for children, and of course, deals from local businesses. Vendor registration is open until July 31. Make sure to drop by downtown Lakefield on Aug. 9 to see what it’s all about.

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 Y-Drive, Home Hardware, MIskin Law and Gauvreau Accounting

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…

Y Drive has launched a new instant courier service.

This rideshare service is now available to help with getting documents signed and returned, deposits made and orders fulfilled. Y Drive has hundreds of vetted drivers and some of the top technology in Canada to offer a courier service built for speed, security, and convenience. Use the Y Drive app to manage, schedule, and track your courier jobs in real time. Download the app or visit ydriveapp.com to find out more and get started.

A big congratulations to Chemong Home Hardware Building Centre on celebrating 20 years in business.

To mark this milestone, they’re holding a celebration on Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come on out and get some celebratory cake and hear a bit about their story. The day will feature a bouncy obstacle course, vendor booths, a barbecue lunch, giveaways and fun for the whole family. Located at 1699 Chemong Rd. in Selwyn, Chemong Home Hardware Building Centre is a large modern store specializing in kitchen and bath design as well as Beaver Home and Cottage design.

Miskin Law are making it easier to get the information you need at the scene of an accident by releasing their Crash Companion app.

Pre-load your licence, insurance, and vehicle information and you’re ready for an emergency, at which point you can add photos, witness statements, and even provide QR code links for witnesses to file their own accounts. Being prepared with the Crash Companion app will help you be ready for the unexpected.

Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory are launching their 4th Annual Gear Up for Good campaign, which is an initiative dedicated to providing essential resources to underserved local children.

They are looking to fully stock 200 backpacks to help support Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation. Union Barber is providing free haircuts so the kids can go back to school looking their best and Domino's Pizza are offering a free pizza to each participating family. Your business can help by providing snacks, water bottles, backpacks, and supplies by August 11. Contact Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory or drop off donations at 150 King Street.

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 CDC Inc., Optimized Solutions, HERmanas Boutique and The Willow Studio

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…

CDC Inc. has acquired local appraisal firm McLean, Simon & Associates in a move to strengthen real estate appraisal services in the region.

This strategic acquisition brings together two experienced teams with a shared commitment to accuracy, integrity, and exceptional service. The transition will be seamless as all operations, personnel, and client relationships at McLean, Simon & Associates will remain in place. There will be no changes to contact information, existing service agreements, or the high standards of professionalism clients have come to expect. Peter McLean and his team are here to help with your full-service appraisal needs.

Tracy Logan has launched a new business, Optimized Solutions, to help small home-service businesses like arborists, landscapers, and contractors with getting organized, improving efficiently and growing with confidence.

Tracy has 18 years of experience running a successful tree service and understands the day-to-day challenges business owners face. Whether you need guidance or hands-on support, Tracy offers practical systems and tools to streamline operations and set your business up for long-term success. Find out more at optimizedsolutions.ca.

HERmanas Boutique is celebrating five years in business.

It’s a special milestone for this small, woman-led business that has grown significantly thanks to the support of the community. Located on Highway 28 in Apsley, HERmanas offers curated essentials by women for women — empowering women through intentional collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared vision of elevated everyday style. You can also shop the boutique online at shophermanas.ca.

The Willow Studio is partnering with Five Counties Children’s Centre to offer Adaptive Yoga classes for children with special needs this summer.

Angela Demeester is a parent of a child with cerebral palsy and her studio provides accessible and inclusive yoga rooted in connection. Children of all abilities are invited to explore movement, build confidence, and experience the joy of connection. There will be a class for children six and under on July 16 and one for children seven and up on August 6. Find out more at willowpeterborough.com.

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 EC3, JA-Neo, Leadership in Sustainability and Pathway of Fame

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…

We’re going to do something a bit different this week. Some great community organizations have held various awards and recognition events in recent weeks and we’re going to highlight some of the people who go above and beyond.

First up, the Electric City Culture Council recently hosted their Celebration of the Arts event.

Peterborough has a vibrant arts scene, which doesn’t happen by accident. It takes a lot of hard work and EC3 recently recognized a few of our outstanding arts champions: Lynda Todd, Olivia Whetung, Syd Birrell, Sarah DeCarlo, David Goyette, and Chad Hogan. Thanks for all that you do! Our arts and culture sector plays a crucial role for many local businesses.

Junior Achievement Northern and Eastern Ontario held their 10th annual Business Hall of Fame.

They inducted Darrell Junkin, Diane Richard, Tony and Kelli Grady, Grant Seabrooke, Matt Holmes, Michael Riseley, Donnell Leahy, Natalie McMaster, Julia Leahy, Margo and Paul Hudson, Nancy Wiskel, Martin and Kelly Carbajal, Drew Merrett, Raj Patel and the Eatson family. Thank you all for your leadership and enormous contributions to our local business community. Junior Achievement is an organization that promotes getting young people prepared for the workforce and entrepreneurship.

We have a lot of progressive businesses who are leading the way in sustainability and environmental action. Green Economy Peterborough, a part of GreenUP, held their annual Leadership in Sustainability Awards.

This year’s recipients include Morton Medical Centre, Woodleigh Farms, Wild Rock Outfitters, Unity Design Studio, and Kelly Jamieson of Charlotte Products. Well done all of you. You’re not only making our community a better place – you’re leading by example, showing us who we can build stronger and more sustainable businesses.

We have one more group of esteemed community builders being honoured, this time through recognition in the Pathway of Fame. The class of 2025 is Jerry Allen, Julie Fallis, Ted Dawes, Bob Trennum, Peggy Shaughnessy, Dr. Garry Humphreys, Ray Caft, and Susan Dunkley.

Thanks to all of you for being an inspiration and volunteering countless hours to building a stronger community. If you want to find out more about these amazing people’s contributions, check out the organizations honouring them for the complete writeups on everyone mentioned here.

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.

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.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring New Canadians Centre, The Chocolate Rabbit, On Point Kitchen and Kawartha Wellness Summit

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…

June 27 is Canadian Multiculturalism Day and the New Canadians Centre are putting on their fourth annual Canadian Multiculturalism Festival from 2 to 6 p.m.

The block party includes a talent show, multicultural crafts, henna, face painting, a bouncy castle, and delicious food. Check out the Cultural Fair to learn about some of Peterborough’s multicultural and faith-based groups and their programming. You will have an opportunity to get festival-branded t-shirts and tote bags. Come out and support the New Canadian Centre, an organization that served more than 2,000 clients from more than 99 countries in the last year.

The Chocolate Rabbit just opened a new location at 749 Erskine Avenue in Peterborough.

This is a move from their previous location in East City. It’s great to see a local business like this continue to grow. They also have stores at 11 Queen St. in Lakefield and 16 Bridge St. W. in Bancroft. They are a family-owned and operated handcrafted Swiss chocolate factory making their own unique confections. The Chocolate Rabbit is your place for delectable treats, from rich chocolates, to creamy truffles, to mouthwatering fudge. Drop by any of their three locations and get some high-quality artisan chocolate as a gift or to treat yourself.

2024 Starter Company graduate Elena Thomas is opening a new culinary destination in Lakefield.

On Point Kitchen and Catering is now open at 15 Charlotte St. On Point brings a fresh take on locally prepared meals with a focus on private chef and catering services, gourmet frozen meals, a vibrant lunch counter, and fusion-style sandwiches. Drop by for a quick bite or relaxing meal. The bakery offers a selection of sweets. On Point Kitchen and Catering serves the Lakefield, Peterborough, and surrounding communities with tailored meal options to match your event, diet and schedule.

The Kawartha Wellness Summit is coming up July 6 at Kawartha Downs.

Kawartha Downs will be transformed into a vibrant hub for connection, creativity, and community empowerment that redefines what self-care and wellness can look like. The full-day summit will feature nearly 20 vendors, 10 workshops, and 10 speakers that will explore health, wellness, self-care, and fitness.

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.

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.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring KMA, Farm Dog Boarding, Habitat For Humanity and Lakefield Business Social

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…

The Kawartha Manufacturers Association are holding their Annual General Meeting on Thursday at 3:30 p.m. at Jesse’s Tap and Grill in Ennismore.

Their guest speaker is renowned supply chain expert Bob Armstrong. Bob is the President at Atlas and brings 50 years of experience in global supply chain management, international trade, and cross-border logistics. Even if you’re not in the manufacturing industry, it’s well worth going to the KMA AGM and hearing from one of Canada’s top experts North American trade. Go to thekma.com to get your tickets.

There’s a new business dedicated to pet comfort.

Farm Dog Boarding is a small, intimate kennel that believes in quality not quantity, boarding only four to six pups at a time. They are located on a beautiful farm where dogs can relax and enjoy time outdoors. The kennel includes a four-acre fenced off-leash area where your dog can run and play freely. There is a separate area for smaller dogs to ensure they can play in a safe environment. There are also scenic walking trails to explore. You can find them online at farmdogboarding.com or drop by their location at 1594 Keene Rd., just south of Peterborough.

A big shout out to Mario Zambonin who was recently recognized for 15 years working with Habitat for Humanity.

He’s worked with Habitat in Prince Edward Island, 1,000 Islands, and of course, here in Peterborough. He has been volunteering with Habitat for 23 years. Mario, we appreciate your dedication to helping people attain affordable home ownership.

There’s a Lakefield Business Social coming up June 25 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Kawartha Lakes Construction at 3359 Lakefield Rd.

Hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature games, door prizes, food, and more. It’s the kick-off to summer networking event you don’t want to miss. Have something you would like to promote to local businesses? Bring a door prize to add to the giveaways. Register at pkchamber.ca.

Speaking of events you don’t want to miss…

Make sure you come out to the annual Living Well Seniors Showcase this Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre.

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.

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.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Harbr Human, DBIA, Community Care Peterborough, Mayor's Breakfast and Living Well Seniors Showcase

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 are some big changes coming to employment laws in Ontario, effective July 1.

Harbr Human Resources are hosting a free 30-minute webinar for businesses that will cover updates to key areas like hiring, onboarding and compliance. Big changes include pay transparency in job postings, washroom access for delivery drivers, and naloxone kit requirements. The webinar will be on June 18 at 3 p.m. Contact Harbr HR to register.

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area are partnering with Summer Soul Yoga and Pilates to offer free yoga and Pilates at Quaker Square during the farmers’ market on various Saturdays.

Enjoy some fresh air while getting moving through energizing Pilates designed to strengthen, stretch, and invigorate your body. All are welcome. Dress comfortably and bring a mat if you can. Find out more at summersoul.ca.

Community Care Peterborough are gearing up for a busy summer season with their thrift shops.

They have five stores across the region, including Apsley, Ennismore, Havelock, Millbrook, and Bridgenorth. Each has unique, affordable items that are perfect for the cottage. Not only will you find some great deals and interesting items, but you’ll be supporting programs and services that keep seniors and adults living with disabilities living healthy and safe in their own homes by helping fund Community Care.

The Chamber of Commerce has a couple of events coming up.

There’s the Four Mayor’s Breakfast on June 11 from 8 to 10am at Beachwood Resort. You’ll hear from the mayors of North Kawartha, Selwyn, Douro-Dummer, and Trent Lakes. There’s a full buffet breakfast, moderated discussion, and an opportunity to ask your own questions. Get your tickets at pkchamber.ca.

There’s also the annual Living Well Seniors Showcase on June 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre.

The show features more than 100 vendors and 10 workshops. It’s a great way to connect with local businesses, non-profits, and services for both retirees and those planning for retirement. There are still a couple booths available if you want to showcase your business to the region’s largest demographic. Reach out to the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce for more details.

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.

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.