​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 Street North 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 Charlies. 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 Street in downtown Peterborough for your last chance to dine at Cosmic Charlies.
 
The Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Sidewalk Sale on Queen Street in Lakefield on Saturday, August 9 from 9 am to 2 pm. 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 August 9 to see what it’s all about.
 
 

​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 August 16 from 10am to 4pm. 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 barbeque lunch, giveaways, and fun for the whole family. Located at 1699 Chemong Road 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.

​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 5 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.