This week’s round-up of business news features a $15,000 investment by Alf Curtis Home Improvements into skilled trades through Junior Achievement of Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka, the winding up of not-for-profit social enterprise Kawartha Local Marketplace at the end of October, and Stewart Aviation taking over fixed base operations at Peterborough Airport.
Also featured is the opening of Gauvreau & Associates CPA new offices in downtown Peterborough, the retirement of Kathy Belanger from Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of Realtors, Jason Stabler joining Community Counselling and Resource Centre Peterborough, the IGNITE Kawarthas Northumberland tourism best practices retreat in January, and the 2019 board of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce.
New regional business events added this week include: the first anniversary celebration of Sunset Grill Peterborough (with a United Way fundraiser) on October 30th, a Trent Hills Chamber members-only breakfast meeting with MPP David Piccini on November 2nd in Warkworth, a Haliburton Chamber breakfast meeting with Louie DiPalma on November 6th in Minden, a Northumberland Chamber networking event on November 13th in Cobourg, FastStart Peterborough’s E-Connect with Nancy Nickle and Tracey Ormond in on November 13th in Peterborough, the Pitch It! competition at Fleming College on November 15th in Peterborough, and the Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurship competition final pitch on November 22nd in Peterborough.
Alf Curtis invests $15,000 in the skilled trades through Junior Achievement
Michael Skinner, chancellor of the 2019 Junior Achievement of Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka Business Hall of Fame, thanks Brent Perry, president of Alf Curtis Home Improvements Inc., for the investment of $15,000. (Photo courtesy of JA-PLM)
Local building supply company Alf Curtis Home Improvements Inc. has invested $15,000 into Junior Achievement of Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka (JA-PLM).
The investment in the JA-PLM Legacy Fund will fund six programs over the next year, with an emphasis on skilled trades.
Brent Perry, president of Alf Curtis Home Improvements, presented the cheque to JA-PLM last Thursday (October 25). He said he sees the shortage of skilled quality tradespeople every day.
“Investing in the trades at the start through Junior Achievement is an investment in the future of my building products supply business,” Perry said. “It only makes good business sense to me. Plus, on top of that is the satisfaction I get from helping the students, Junior Achievement and the schools in the Peterborough community.”
Innovation Cluster president and CEO Michael Skinner, who is also chancellor of the 2019 JA-PLM Business Hall of Fame, recognized the significance of the contribution.
“Alf Curtis Home Improvements has set a leadership role in making this investment,” Skinner said, “and has shown how important it is to invest in our next generation of leaders and the skilled trades community.”
Alf Curtis Home Improvements Inc. founders Alf and June Curtis were inducted into the 2018 JA-PLM Business Hall of Fame this past May.
Kawartha Local closes up its downtown Peterborough storefront at the end of October
Rob Howard is winding down his not-for-profit social enterprise Kawartha Local Marketplace (KLM) at the end of October.
He’s currently selling off the remaining inventory, fixtures, and equipment for the KLM storefront, located at 165 King Street in Peterborough.
Howard made the announcement on the KLM Facebook page in early September that he was closing the business.
“I started KLM as a 2 year experiment in all-local retail and while changing personal priorities and new opportunities mean that we will be wrapping up early, I am still very proud of our accomplishments,” he writes.
Howard, who was a winner in the 2016 Bears’ Lair entrepreneurship contest winner for his Kawartha Local business, opened the King Street storefront in August 2017.
During its run, Howard says KLM offered products from more than 100 local artisans, farmers, and makers. It also acted as a storefront host for not-for-profit fundraisers, supplied gift boxes for silent auctions, and funded makers to create original products (such as 3D-printed key chains featuring the City of Peterborough’s “water bacon” logo).
“My sincere hope is to see another locally oriented retailer start up in our location,” Howard writes on Facebook. “We will certainly do our best to help make that happen.”
Stewart Aviation takes over aviation services at Peterborough Airport
Stewart Aviation is now providing fixed base operations at the Peterborough Airport.
This includes aircraft support services (fuelling, freight and baggage handling, ground traffic coordination), de-icing services, and pilot and visitor support services (including the airport restaurant).
Stewart Aviation is owned by brother-and-sister team Scott Stewart and Dana Empey, who also own G. Stewart Travel Services Ltd, with retail operations under Carlson Wagonlit Travel and wholesale operations under Stewart Tours.
The company is replacing Complete Aviation Services, which was the fixed base operator since 1987, and has taken on most of the Complete Aviation Services staff.
Stewart Tours has already been offering charters from the Peterborough Airport to destinations such as Nashville, New York City, the Bahamas via Florida, and more.
“With Stewart Travel’s 40-plus years of experience, they are a natural fit and a real asset to the Peterborough Airport,” says Trent Gervais, General Manager at the Peterborough Airport. “I am confident in Stewart Aviation’s ability to positively contribute to the safe operations and reputation of our airport.”
Stewart Aviation is also planning to expand the available services and encourage more air travel to and from the Peterborough area.
Gauvreau & Associates CPA moving to new downtown Peterborough offices on November 5th
Gauvreau & Associates CPA is moving to its new offices at 150 King Street in downtown Peterborough on Monday, November 5th.
Currently located at 70 Hunter Street West, the company’s new offices will be located in Suite 100 West at building on the northwest corner of George and King Streets.
The new space includes an accessible entrance for clients and staff, additional client meeting rooms, and improved office space. There’s also street parking for delivery and drop off and one-hour free parking at the adjacent King Street parking garage.
CEO Robert Gavreau says the 70 Hunter Street West location will be closed on Friday, November 2nd for the move, with the business reopening in the new offices on Monday, November 5th.
Kathy Belanger retiring after 41 years with Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of Realtors
Kathy Belanger, executive officer of the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of Realtors (PKAR), will be retiring on Friday, November 16th after 41 years with the organization.
Belanger began working at PKAR, which promotes the value of realtors in the region and provides them with resources and tools, in November 1977. She later served as bookkeeper and member liaison, and then assistant executive officer, before being promoted to the position of executive officer in 2016.
“Kathy has dedicated much of her career to PKAR’s development, growth, and progress,” says Kirsti Doyle, PKAR Board President. “In doing so, she has made a significant impact on both the local industry and the community as a whole in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.”
PKAR invites members and friends to join the Board of Directors and staff at a retirement luncheon and open house at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 16th at the PKAR office (273 Charlotte St., Peterborough).
Christine Ball will assume the role of Executive Officer upon Belanger’s retirement.
Jason Stabler joins Community Counselling and Resource Centre Peterborough
Jason Stabler has joined Community Counselling and Resource Centre (CCRC) in Peterborough as manager of fundraising and communications.
Most recently a business development with human resources outsourcing company WorkforceWins, Stabler was previously director of community development at New Canadians Centre in Peterborough.
“Jason’s past non-profit experience and knowledge of the community will be a great asset to CCRC,” says executive director Casey Ready. “We’re really happy to have him aboard.”
CCRC is a charitable, non-profit agency that provides credit and debit counselling, housing resources, professional counselling, and more.
Applications open for IGNITE Kawarthas Northumberland tourism best practices retreat in January 2019
Regional Tourism Organization 8 is hosting the IGNITE Kawarthas Northumberland tourism best practices retreat from January 21st to 24th at Northern Edge Algonquin.
The immersive three-night and four-day workshop combines elements of a best practice mission, community development, and experiential travel training. You will receive guidance, support and encouragement with inspiring new experiences and workshops elements.
You will also learn how to deliver a memorable experience by harnessing the unique assets of the community, how to work with tourism allies to achieve extra-ordinary experiences and opportunities, and how to engage and build connections with the right people and how to engage the community.
The retreat is open to tourism businesses within the Kawarthas Northumberland region (the City of Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough City and County, and Northumberland County). Applications are available at rto8.com/download/ignite-kawarthas-northumberland-2019-application/ and must be emailed to partner@rto8.com.
The cost for the retreat is $575, which includes motor coach transportation from Peterborough to Algonquin. Applications are due by December 14th, but if you submit before November 16th you have a chance to be one of two people who will pay half price for the retreat.
Peterborough Chamber of Commerce announces 2019 Board of Directors
The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2019 Board of Directors.
The composition of the board is the same as 2018, with the exception of three new directors replacing the retiring Lorrie McMullen of The Venue, Neil Morton of StudioPtbo, and Morgan Smith of Signarama. Noah Crowley of Sun Life Financial, Susan Dunkley of Peterborough Humane Society, and Cody May of StudioPTBO were acclaimed to the board.
The 2019 board is Sofie Andreou of Sofie Andreou & Associates, Tim Barrie of Merit Precision Moulding, Chris Calbury of Emmatt Digital Solutions, Noah Crowley of Sun Life Financial, Susan Dunkley of Peterborough Humane Society, Joe Grant of LLF Lawyers LLP, Stuart Harrison (Secretary) of Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, Dawn Hennessey of Business Development Bank of Canada, Jim Hill of James F. Hill Financial Management Services, Gwyneth James of Cody & James CPAs, Cody May of StudioPTBO, Mary McGee of Little Lake Cemetery Company, Allison Seiderer of Living Well Home Medical Equipment, Amy Simpson of MicroAge Technology Solutions, and Benjamin vanVeen of Team vanRahan Century 21,
Sunset Grill Peterborough celebrates its first anniversary with United Way fundraiser on October 30
The Peterborough franchise of breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant chain Sunset Grill is celebrating its first anniversary with a fundraiser for the United Way Peterborough & District.
Beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, October 30th, Sunset Grill Peterborough (1005 Lansdowne St., Peterborough) will be providing free coffee and selling pancakes for $1, with all proceeds going to the United Way.
Annual TD Economic Outlook Luncheon in Peterborough on October 30
The TD Economic Outlook Luncheon takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 30th at the Peterborough Golf & Country Club (1030 Armour Rd., Peterborough).
The annual event explores trends, opportunities, and challenges both within local communities in Peterborough & the Kawarthas and across the globe. It features a discussion led by Derek Burleton, TD Bank Group Vice-President and Deputy Chief Economist, and an update from Rhonda Keenan, President & CEO of Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development.
This luncheon is presented by TD Bank Group, Collins Barrow, Kawartha Manufacturers’ Association, and Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development.
Tickets are $35+HST and include lunch. You are asked to register by Tuesday, October 23rd at www.eventbrite.ca/e/td-economic-outlook-luncheon-2018-tickets-49992068623.
Trent Hills Chamber members’ breakfast meeting with MPP David Piccini in Warkworth on November 2
The Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce is hosting a breakfast meeting with MPP Northumberland Peterborough South David Piccini from 8 to 9 a.m. on Friday, November 2nd at Glover’s Farm Market (14260 County Road 29, Warkworth).
The free event is open to Chamber members only. A continental breakfast will be served.
Registration is required by 2 p.m. on Tuesday, October 30th, by calling 705-653-1151 or emailing tourism@trenthillschamber.ca.
Haliburton Chamber hosts breakfast meeting with Louie DiPalma in Minden on November 6
The Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting a breakfast meeting at 7:30 pm. on Tuesday, November 6th at Molly’s Bistro Bakery (170 Bobcaygeon Rd. Minden).
The guest speaker is Louie DiPalma, Vice President of Small Medium Enterprise Programs with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. The topic is “Discover Ability” which reviews the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, the advantages of developing an inclusive workforce, and promotes the business case for hiring persons with disabilities.
The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members (which includes taxes and gratuities). Register at events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07efqwu0xfe0a51414.
Kawartha Chamber Awards of Excellence and Social Gala in Lakefield on November 8
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting its 2018 Awards of Excellence and Social Gala at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 8th at Lakefield College School (4391 County Rd. 29, Lakefield).
Unlike previous years, the format for this year’s presentation will be a social gala format, with a reception taking place at Upper Hadden Hall followed by the awards presentation in the Bryan Jones Theatre.
There will be both silent and live auction items, light hor d’oeuvres, cash bar, music from Rhythm & Grace, and time for socialization and networking before the awards.
Tickets are $40 per person, which includes the hor d’oeuvres and one drink ticket.
Register at business.kawarthachamber.ca/events/details/awards-of-excellence-social-gala-7165.
Northumberland Chamber hosts networking event in Cobourg on November 13
The Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce’s next “Meet and Greet” business networking event takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 13th at Mann McCracken & Associates (1 Queen St., Unit 103, Cobourg).
In addition to networking with other local business people, you’ll have an opportunity to check out Northumberland’s most accessible legal service provider.
The event is free for Chamber members and $10 for non-members. Register at nccofc.ca/events/register/1356.
FastStart Peterborough’s E-Connect features Nancy Nickle and Tracey Ormond in Peterborough on November 13
FastStart Peterborough’s next E-Connect seminar takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 13th at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough).
Nancy Nickle of Birchview Design and Tracey Ormond of That’s a Wrap Catering will be the guest speakers.
E-Connect connects Peterborough’s entrepreneurs and start-ups with the region’s most accomplished advisors, experts and investors.
The event will also celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week with The Trent Youth Entrepreneurship Society.
E-Connect is free to attend, but registration is encouraged at www.eventbrite.com/e/e-connect-celebrating-the-week-of-entrepreneurs-tickets-51515572464
Peterborough Business Hub hosts its official grand opening on November 15
Peterborough Business Hub, which offers office rentals and coworking space, is hosting its official grand opening celebration from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 15th at its location at 398 McDonnel Street in Peterborough.
While the business has been open for a few months, the official celebration provides a chance to see the offices, meet the staff, and get to know existing clients and their businesses.
Light appetizers and drinks will be provided. To RSVP, register at www.eventbrite.ca/e/grand-opening-tickets-51482098342.
Pitch It! competition at Fleming College in Peterborough on November 15
FastStart Peterborough’s annual “Pitch It!” entrepreneurial competition for Trent University and Fleming College students takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, November 15th in room B3250 at Fleming College (599 Brealey Dr., Peterborough).
Three contestants (from 10 finalists to be announced on November 8th) will pitch their business ideas before a panel of industry judges in a Dragons’ Den style competition in three categories: Clean & Agriculture Technology, Trades and Retail Business and Information Technology / Media & Gaming.
Participating students can win $500, meet other like-minded entrepreneurs, and receive help to bring their innovative idea to market.
The November 15th event is free and open to the public.
Application deadline for Win This Space 2019 entrepreneurial competition is November 16
Entrepreneurs have until Friday, November 16th to put together a video application and submit it to the 2019 Win This Space competition, an initiative of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area in partnership with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development, Community Futures Peterborough, and Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs.
The top 10 finalists will take several workshops to fine-tune their business plans before a winner is chosen on March 5th by a panel of judges.
The winner will then have their choice of available participating downtown locations free for one year. To cover rent payments, several sponsors are adopting a month and contributing $2,000 toward each month’s lease.
Visit winthisspace.com for the rules and regulations and application instructions.
Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurship competition final pitch in Peterborough on November 22
The final pitch event for the 2018 Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurship competition takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 22nd at the Gordon Best Theatre (216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough).
An initiative of FastStart Peterborough, the Innovation Cluster, and the Trent Youth Entrepreneurship Society, Cubs’ Lair gives entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 29 the chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes.
At the final pitch event, a panel of established business professionals will test the top five competitors’ knowledge of how they will grow the business and judge the best pitch.
