Know Someone Making a Difference? Nominate Them for a Business Excellence Award

By Scott Arnold

The search is on for the businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations helping shape Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

nominations are now open for 2026 business excellence awards (photo courtesy of Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce)

The Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has officially opened nominations for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, an annual celebration recognizing businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation and outstanding contributions to the local economy.

Community members have until Friday, July 17 to nominate deserving businesses operating within the City or County of Peterborough.

The awards program has long been dedicated to celebrating responsible business leadership and the people and organizations that help drive prosperity across the region.

Nominations are open in several categories, and community members are encouraged to review the award descriptions and choose the category that best reflects a business's achievements and impact.

While businesses cannot nominate themselves, supporters are encouraged to submit nominations on their behalf. Nominees also do not need to be members of the Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce to be eligible.

Following the nomination period, businesses selected as nominees will be asked to provide detailed information about their operations and accomplishments. Winners will then be chosen by an independent panel of judges.

Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Brenda Whitehead said the awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on the incredible businesses and people who keep the region moving forward and celebrate the innovation, passion and hard work that make Peterborough and the Kawarthas a great place to do business.

Board Chair Susan Dunkley said the awards recognize the innovation, leadership, resilience and community impact of local entrepreneurs and organizations, while also highlighting those whose work strengthens the local economy and inspires future success.

Nominations for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards opened Monday and can be submitted online until July 17.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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CMHA HKPR's Fourth Annual Change the Cycle Breaks Fundraising Record of Over $31,000

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge’s (CMHA HKPR) fourth annual Change the Cycle fundraiser broke its record, raising $31,620.64 at Nicholls Oval on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Emma Lustic and CMHA HKPR.

There were a record 92 registered riders at the event, helping exceed the fundraising goal of $25,000.

Proceeds from the event will support unfunded and non‑annualized mental health programs at CMHA HKPR, helping fill critical gaps so individuals and families can access the services they need.

“We’re incredibly proud of what this event has become and so grateful for the energy and generosity of everyone involved,” said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “Seeing nearly 100 riders come together, alongside our sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters, is a powerful reminder of how much people care about mental health in our region.”

New this year was a theme song created by Lindsay-based grunge band, ‘Soup,’ to showcase their hit, ‘Let’s Go For a Ride.’ The band was formed by Lindsay resident Simon Ward, the founder of Strumbellas.

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Community Care Peterborough’s Apsley Office Relocates to Burleigh Street On July 27

To increase accessibility, Community Care Peterborough’s (CCP) Apsley location is moving to 91 Burleigh St. as of July 27.

Photo courtresy of Community Care Peterborough.

“Our team of volunteers and I are excited to move into this bright, beautiful, and renovated house, just down the street from our previous location. We look forward to a very welcoming and accessible space for our clients, volunteers, and the community,” said Katie Bryck, Apsley Community Development Coordinator.

The moving dates are July 23 and 24. The service office will remain operational (via phone only) during these moving dates. The office phone number remains the same (705-656-4589).

The thrift store will be closed to the public from July 20 to 24, and plans to reopen on July 27 at the new location.

CCP is planning a special grand opening celebration for August.

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Learning and Voyageur Tours Highlight This Year’s Canada Day Celebration

By Scott Arnold

A voyageur canoe experience, Indigenous-led learning and free admission to the Canadian Canoe Museum are among the highlights of Lessons From the Land, returning to Peterborough on Canada Day.

the new canadians centre has a full day of canadian day activities planned in peterborough (photo courtesy of NCC via the canadian canoe museum)

The New Canadians Centre is once again inviting the community to spend July 1 learning, reflecting and connecting through Indigenous culture, knowledge and experiences at Lessons From the Land.

Running from 9:30 am to 1 pm at the Canadian Canoe Museum, the annual gathering offers a mix of cultural teachings, hands-on activities, family-friendly programming and opportunities to connect with both the land and water.

The event grew out of the New Canadians Centre's reflection on Truth and Reconciliation and its role in helping newcomers settle on lands that have long been stewarded by Indigenous Peoples. Rather than holding a traditional Canada Day celebration, the organization now uses July 1 as an opportunity for learning, reflection and relationship-building.

One of the biggest draws this year is the opportunity to get out on Little Lake aboard a voyageur canoe. Guided by staff from the Canadian Canoe Museum, participants can paddle together in a traditional-style canoe while learning about Canada's paddling heritage. Space is limited and advance registration is required.

The experience doesn't end when the event wraps up. Participants can receive a stamp from the information booth for free admission to the Canadian Canoe Museum beginning at 1 pm, giving attendees the chance to explore the museum's exhibits and collections after the morning's activities.

a community drum circle led by janet and linda mccue will open canada day acitivities in peterborough (photo courtesy of the new canadian centre)

Schedule of Events

9:30 am – Opening Ceremony and Community Drum Circle

The day begins with a community drum circle led by Curve Lake's Janet McCue and Linda McCue.

A longtime advocate and community leader, Janet McCue has spent decades supporting Indigenous education, social justice initiatives and community outreach throughout Peterborough and the surrounding area.

10:30 am to 12 pm – Choose One Activity

Participants can select from four concurrent activities.

Voyageur Canoe Tour

Take to the water on Little Lake with the Canadian Canoe Museum team. No paddling experience is required.

Children must be accompanied by a caregiver, participants must weigh at least 30 pounds, and all paddlers will be provided with a personal flotation device. Registration is required and participation is limited to 35 people.

River Race

Led by the TRACKS Youth Program, this interactive activity explores the journeys of salmon, eels and sturgeon through Lake Ontario tributaries. Participants will learn about local waterways, ecological challenges and the role of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in understanding and caring for the environment.

Lessons of the Land: From Traditional Medicines to Sustainable Futures

Robyn Ivory of Indigenously Infused will share teachings about traditional medicines, sustainable harvesting and reciprocity with the land, while exploring how Indigenous stewardship practices continue to shape communities today.

Quill Workshop

Curve Lake artist Donna Jacobs will lead participants in creating an orange shirt pin using porcupine quills she has harvested and prepared herself.

Jacobs began beading as part of her healing and sobriety journey and now creates beadwork, quillwork and paintings using natural materials. A limited number of free kits will be available, while additional kits can be purchased. Registration is required.

12 pm to 12:30 pm – Community Lunch

A lunch prepared by Thomas Olszewski of Grandfather's Kitchen will be served.

The meal will feature Three Sisters Soup, made from corn, beans and squash, ingredients that have long been grown together by Indigenous Peoples because each plant supports the others. Bannock will also be served, along with teachings about the significance of strawberries, known in Anishinaabemowin as the "heart berry."

Participants are asked to bring their own dish pack, including a bowl, plate, spoon and fork.

12:45 pm – Closing Gathering

Janet and Linda McCue will close the event with a final gathering before participants head off to enjoy the museum.

1 pm – Free Admission to the Canadian Canoe Museum

Anyone attending Lessons From the Land can receive a stamp from the information booth for complimentary admission to the museum.

What to Bring

Attendees are encouraged to bring:

• A reusable water bottle

• A bowl, plate, spoon and fork

• Snacks

• A lawn chair or blanket

Most activities will take place outdoors, and all children should be accompanied by a caregiver.

Lessons From the Land is free to attend and offers an opportunity to spend Canada Day learning from Indigenous voices, participating in hands-on experiences and exploring one of Peterborough's most celebrated attractions.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Ennismore Couple Win $100,000 Off Scratch Ticket

Linda and Michael F. of Ennismore hit the top prize of $100,000 with the Wild Cash Multiplier Scratch ticket.

Photo courtesy of OLG.

The married couple said they enjoy playing a variety of scratch games, LOTTO MAX and LOTTO 6/49. 

After purchasing their tickets, Michael said he played them in his car in the store parking lot. While scratching the first one, he uncovered a big win and ran back into the store to scan it.

“I stared at the screen in total disbelief,” he said “It was all a blur.” 

Michael immediately went home to share the news with his wife.

“When I bolted through the door, Linda asked, ‘What happened?’ I told her we won and we did a happy dance around the kitchen,'“ he exclaimed. 

The couple said they plan to put their winnings toward retirement savings, a fancy dinner with a few friends and a small getaway with their dog.

“I’m also going to buy Michael a guitar. He doesn’t know how to play but he’s looking forward to making some beautiful noise,” said Linda.

The winning ticket was purchased at Causeway Variety on Robinson Road in Ennismore.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Business Excellence Awards, Youth Unlimited Peterborough and Senior Helpers of Peterborough

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…

Do you know a business that goes above and beyond?

Now is your chance to recognize the outstanding businesses that help make Peterborough and the Kawarthas really shine. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards! The nomination process is quick and easy. Finalists will receive valuable recognition through a multi-media promotional campaign, with award recipients announced live at the annual Business Excellence Awards celebration. Help us celebrate business excellence in our community by submitting your nomination today! More information can be found at pkchamber.ca

Youth Unlimited Peterborough recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Sports Court at The Bridge Youth Centre with a community celebration on June 20.

The event welcomed community members for an afternoon of games, music, food, and activities as the organization officially unveiled this exciting new space for local youth. The new sports court represents another step in Youth Unlimited Peterborough's ongoing commitment to creating safe, welcoming spaces where young people can connect, grow, and thrive.

On Wednesday, June 24, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. Senior Helpers of Peterborough invites the community to celebrate its official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Join the team as they mark this exciting milestone and learn more about the personalized in-home care services they provide to seniors and their families throughout Peterborough. Guests will also have the opportunity to tour the organization's innovative Centre of Excellence, an immersive training space designed to support interactive education for caregivers, family caregivers, and industry professionals. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP to lheath@seniorhelpers.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 brenda@pkchamber.ca.

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Peterborough Paramedics Joining Sirens for Life Blood Donation Challenge

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough County-City Paramedics are once again rolling up their sleeves this summer as part of a nationwide effort to help save lives through blood and plasma donations.

peterborough county-city paramedics are joining a nationwide effort with the blood donation challenge (photo via instagram @ptboparamedics)

The service is taking part in the annual Sirens for Life campaign, a friendly competition organized by Canadian Blood Services that sees first responders from across Canada compete to make the biggest impact through donations.

Peterborough County-City Paramedics will go head-to-head with other emergency services from across the region while encouraging residents to join the cause.

The campaign aims to boost blood and plasma donations during the summer months and help ensure lifesaving products remain available for patients who need them.

Paramedics say every donation can make a difference and are encouraging eligible community members to consider booking an appointment and becoming part of the effort.

The Sirens for Life campaign has become an annual tradition among first responders, combining a bit of friendly competition with an opportunity to support healthcare systems and patients across the country.

Residents interested in participating can book an appointment through Canadian Blood Services and join local paramedics in helping meet the ongoing demand for blood and plasma donations.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Beavermead Park Boat Launch Temporarily Closed

The Beavermead boat launch is temporarily closed as the City of Peterborough prepares for planned improvements.  

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The Beavermead boat launch is primarily used by canoers, kayakers, and paddleboarders. Upgrades to this site include the removal of existing pavers, regrading and the installation of gravel.  

The need for improvements was identified through the Boat Launch Strategy, which was part of the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study.  

The launch will remain closed until construction is complete, with an expected opening in spring 2027.  

The boat launch at Rogers Cove, 160 Mark St., remains open to provide residents with access to Little Lake.

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Pathway of Fame Announces Its Inductees For 2026

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough & District has announced its class of 2026 Inductees to be honoured at Showplace Performance Centre on Sept. 15.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The Heritage Trio is performing prior to the induction ceremony. The event is open to the general public, as well as to families, friends and supporters of the inductees. Admission is free and reservations are not required.

The following are this year’s inductees and their biographies:

Dr. Kim Curtin (Community Builder)

In response to a 2008 request from Queen’s University, Dr. Kim Curtin developed a two-year Family Medicine Residency Program in Peterborough that today stands as a model of success, with more than 60 percent of its graduates practicing family medicine in Peterborough city and county, most of those contributing to health care at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and still others very instrumental in the provision of services to the community’s most vulnerable.

Alec Denys (Community Builder)

A five-time Paralympian in archery and a world record holder, Alec Denys’ resilience and determination following a devastating spinal cord injury saw him dedicate his life wholly to the benefit of others, as evidenced by his many years as a peer mentor and support leader with Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, and leadership roles with the Douro-Dummer Seniors Club and the Active Together Program facilitated by Peterborough’s Council for Persons with Disabilities.

Keith Dalton/Elaine Orgill (Community Builder)

Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes (PATH) owes much of its success to the volunteer contributions and strongly beating social hearts of Keith Dalton and Elaine Orgill, their contributions ranging from Elaine’s organizing of, and participation in, fundraising events for the organization to Keith’s service as a member of PATH’s Land Acquisition Group and as a project manager.

Rob Rusland (Community Samaritan)

Building on the legacy of his father who founded Rusland’s Auctions in 1972, Rob Rusland’s has voluntarily conducted thousands of fundraising charity auctions, with the list of grateful beneficiaries near endless and the proceeds in the millions of dollars. In addition, his volunteer work has elicited a number of awards, including Rotary recognition as a Paul Harris

Fellow and the Schofield Award of Community Distinction from the United Way.

Marion Griffin (Dramatic Arts)

President and chair of the Peterborough Theatre Guild for six years, Marion Griffin’s contributions to the community theatre troupe over five decades range from set painting and stage managing to producing and directing. An accomplished pianist and organist, Griffin sings with, and conducts, four community choirs, and, since retiring 10 years ago, has still found the time to tutor students.

Wayne Robinson (Entertainment)

Singer, actor, producer, arranger…Wayne Robinson’s contributions to Peterborough’s cultural landscape number many, with the success of several Peterborough Theatre Guild musicals traced to his involvement both onstage and off. Over six years, he sang a number of songs in each of the popular Spring Tonic shows at Showplace, performed with the Kawartha Jazz Ensemble, has headlined a number of benefits, and is today active with The Peterborough Singers.

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City's Summer Soundtrack Begins Saturday with Return of Peterborough Musicfest

By Scott Arnold

Gowan headlines opening night of Peterborough Musicfest's 39th season Saturday at Del Crary Park, with local artist Irish Millie opening the evening on the side stage, as part of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco.

local musician irish millie will kick off the 39th season of peterborough musicfest with a 6:30pm performance on the side stage, followed by gowan on the main stage at 8pm (photo from facebook, via irish millie

A sure sign of summer in Peterborough is almost here.

The 39th season of Peterborough Musicfest kicks off Saturday night, June 27th, at Del Crary Park, bringing thousands back to the waterfront for another summer of free live music under the stars.

Canadian rock icon Gowan will headline opening night at 8 pm, marking his fourth appearance at Musicfest and the return of one of the festival's most requested performers.

Fans can expect to hear favourites including A Criminal Mind and Moonlight Desires when Gowan takes the stage Saturday night.

gowan will headline the opening night of peterborough musicfest on saturday, june 27th, at 8pm at del crary park (photo provided by peterborough music fest)

For Peterborough Musicfest Marketing and Communications Manager Raff Melito, opening night is the payoff after months of work happening behind the scenes.

"We're super excited," said Melito. "Opening night is just going to be incredible. We have Gowan coming back for his fourth appearance at Musicfest, so we're super excited to have him back and have everyone else back at the park too."

While concertgoers may only see the finished product, planning for each season begins almost as soon as the previous one ends. Fundraising, sponsorships, coordinating with the City of Peterborough and securing performers are all part of the year-round effort that helps make the festival possible.

raff melito and the entire peterborough musicfest crew have been working hard to get ready for the kickoff to the 39th season (photo by scott arnold)

Saturday's festivities will get underway well before Gowan takes the stage. Food vendors will be set up beginning around 5 pm, with happy hour specials available between 5 pm and 6 pm. The Cogeco Future Sound Series side stage follows at 6:30 pm, showcasing emerging talent before the main concert.

That stage will belong to local artist Irish Millie, who will have the honour of helping launch the 2026 season.

"It's just fantastic," she said. "I'm so honoured to be playing with a bunch of incredible artists. Just such a great lineup this year. I feel really honoured to be representing Peterborough at Peterborough Musicfest."

The performance comes during a busy stretch for the rising musician. Fresh off a trip to Europe, where she performed at Sweden's Lilla By Festivalen after winning the Breakthrough North2North artist challenge, Irish Millie is preparing to head out on an East Coast tour. Her Musicfest appearance will be her final local show before leaving for the month-long run of dates.

Growing up in Peterborough, Musicfest was a fixture every summer, making this opportunity especially meaningful.

"It feels like such an honour," she said. "The only reason I'm here is because Peterborough supported me so much. To be playing Musicfest in Peterborough is just so sentimental to me."

irish millie will perform in front of the hometown crowd to kickoff the new season of musicfest on saturday (photo from facebook, via irish millie)

Fans attending the side-stage performance can expect a high-energy mix of fiddle music, singing, storytelling and plenty of interaction with the crowd.

"There is definitely a comedy component to my act," she said. "There will be some banter with me and my dad, Murray. There will be tunes on the fiddle, but then I'm also going to be doing some singing, some storytelling and just trying to get people up dancing and having some fun."

The show also comes shortly after the release of her new single, Alison, a tribute to her first music teacher, Sally Pierce, who helped inspire her lifelong love of music.

For Musicfest, opening night is about more than just the artists on stage. It's about bringing the community together for another season along Little Lake.

the free musicfest concert series will begin on saturday at del crary park, right beside little lake in peterborough (photo by scott arnold)

Melito says visitors can make an evening of it by arriving early, enjoying the food vendors, checking out the Future Sound Series performance and taking part in the popular 50-50 draw before the main stage lights come on.

And as always, admission is free.

"I don't know that you can see Gowan for free anywhere else, or any of our other artists for free anywhere else," said Melito. "So that's definitely another great reason to come down."

Following Saturday's opener, Musicfest will continue throughout the summer with free concerts every Wednesday and Saturday night at Del Crary Park.

Want to be part of opening night from some of the best seats in the park? We're giving away a pair of VIP tickets for Saturday's concert. The winner will receive two reserved seats in the VIP section directly in front of the stage. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for contest details and your chance to win.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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.