Now that summer is finally upon us, many are starting to think vacations and relaxation. And who can blame them after the winter we had? But what does this mean for businesses and how can we maintain the momentum of the cooler months? 

A Captive Network study found that productivity in the workplace decreases by 20% during the summer; Therefore, this is a great time to work on projects that get dismissed during the busier months, and take some time to recharge. 

Taking time to recharge is important since it prevents employees from burning out. A survey conducted by Fierce, Inc., found that 58% of staff did not feel less stressed, while 28% were more stressed, by the end of the summer. The key, according to Halley Brock, CEO and President of the Seattle-based Fierce, Inc., is to communicate and delegate appropriately before going on vacation so that the office stays at the office while you enjoy time off. 

Even if you are unable to take many vacation days, use this time to your advantage by: 

• Sharpening skills; 
  
• Starting a new project;
  
• Completing/improving unfinished projects;
  
• Improving teamwork and collaboration;
• Reflecting on the year and planning for the next quarter;
  
• Setting new goals.
  

The summer slow-down does not need to mean the end of productivity, but don’t forget to revitalize before the Fall crunch. 

After the Summer Social at Viamede Resort July 8th, the Chamber's monthly networking and learning events will return in September. 

Enjoy your summer!

Despite the weather and tornado warnings, over 140 golfers came out to the Kawartha Golf and Country Club on June 10th for our 44th annual Chamber Golf Tournament, sponsored by BDO! Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and KGCC staff, this event was a great day of golf capped with a wonderful dinner sponsored by Shaw Computer Systems Inc.!

The winners of the 44th annual Chamber Golf Tournament were (from left to right) Jeff Cox from Brant Office Supply, Patric Marren from Glenn Windrem Trucking, David Noronha from BDO (Presenter), and Berry Killborn from Dominion Lending Centres. Congrats!

Special thanks and more images from the golf tournament can be found here.

The June PBX was hosted at The Mount Community Centre, a gorgeous heritage site on Monaghan Road. Over 100 people were in attendance, participating in tours with Michael Newnham, and enjoying the sights and sounds of the historic surroundings. Tori Owen (on oboe), Scott Wight (on clarinet), and Ben Bell (on bassoon) from the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra entertained the attendees with Cinq Pieces en Trio by Jacques Ibert. The acoustics of the Chapel added to the overall ambiance, making the trio sound like a full orchestra!

The heritage building has a long and vibrant history prior to the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network’s purchase and subsequent transfer to The Mount Community Centre.

In 1893, the Sisters of St. Joseph purchased the land and moved into pre-existing structure, known as the Farmhouse, in 1895. This was the home and centre of worship for the Sisters, whose numbers grew to the point where the original building was expanded, as well as a hospital and education centre for children. Expansions on the building, that came to be known as Mount St. Joseph Convent, continued until 1969, but the stunning chapel was built in 1934 and expanded in 1953.

The building was purchased by the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network in 2013, four years after the Sisters had moved to their new location, beside the Mount. The current plans for the Mount are commercial (office) space and residential apartments, with the chapel remaining for performances and weddings.

For more information about The Mount Community Centre, such as residential and commercial rentals, and tours, contact Andi van Koeverden at themountpeterborough@outlook.com

Our next PBX will be held on Wednesday July 8th at the stunning Viamede Resort for our summer social. This will be the last PBX of the season, returning again in September, so don’t miss out!