​There’s a new addition to Peterborough’s real estate landscape: Coldwell Banker Electric Realty. They are an independently owned and operated Coldwell Banker franchise, offering a unique perspective to the local market. Their mission is to seamlessly connect agents and consumers within a thriving digital ecosystem. They provide agents with a cutting-edge platform, world-class coaching, and training in an A.I.-friendly environment. For consumers, they aim to be a gateway to exceptional real estate experiences backed by global brand recognition. Drop by their office at 215 George Street North in Peterborough or find them online at cbelectricrealty.ca.
 
There’s a new store in downtown Peterborough. Jeff Thrift Store recently opened at 425 George Street North. Jeff’s has a bit of a different approach by selling clothing based on weight. The store offers an affordable and sustainable alternative for getting designer fashion at discount prices, offering both clothing and accessories. They offer new, used, and liquidation overstock items. Drop by and find some fashionable new outfits.
 
Looking to sharpen your business and non-profit skills? Trent University has worked with the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes, KLCFDC and LAUNCH Kawartha to develop two new micro credential programs. Business Essentials and Strategies is an introductory course that explains essential concepts and provides strategies on how to apply them effectively in the workplace. Nonprofit Management Essentials is a timely initiative designed to equip nonprofit professionals with critical management skills. Contact Trent University for more information.
 
Looking to head somewhere warm this winter? The Peterborough Humane Society has a ‘ruff’le prize for you. They just launched their second iteration of this popular contest and the grand prize is a $5,000 travel voucher from Marlin Travel Peterborough. Their first 50/50 ‘ruff’le ran this spring and reached a total jackpot of $43,615. Get your tickets by September 25 and you’re entered into the $500 early bird draw. Tickets are available until October 15 and you can get them at phs5050.ca. 

Statement House is introducing a collection of upcycled fashion. The collection is in collaboration with Cahills, creating fashion accessories and clothing through the repurposing of denim, vintage fabric, and much more. You can buy them pre-made, choose textiles from their collection, or bring your own garments. Statement House offers reasonably priced, carefully curated vintage, retro and modern clothing and accessories. Drop by 378 Water Street in downtown Peterborough to find your next fashionable outfit or accessory.
 
Lakefield Animal Welfare Society's Doggie Dash is coming up on September 15 at Isabel Morris Park in Lakefield. It’s a BYOD (Bring your Own Dog) fundraising event where people can choose between 1.5 and 2.5 km to walk a dog in the company of other dog lovers. The event will feature live music, food vendors, local artisans, and small businesses selling handmade goods. Funds go to supporting furry friends in need. LAWS works every day to accept adoptable cats and dogs as shelter transfers, owner surrenders, and rescued animals with the goal of connecting each animal to a loving home. Visit lakefieldanimalwelfare.org to register.
 
Join the Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough for a night where music meets magic at their Dream Light Gala at the Venue on October 18. Enjoy some delicious beverages during the cocktail hour at 5:30pm with dinner starting at 6:30 pm. There will be live music from James Higgins and the night will close with a silent auction. Funds raised assist the work of the Association with programing and support for people with Down Syndrome and their families. Visit downsyndromepeterborough.ca to order your tickets.
 
The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has a big announcement coming up. Join them at Bennett’s Furniture and Mattresses on Wednesday September 18 from 7 to 9 pm. The evening event will feature a female-led panel discussion featuring local businesses. There will be delicious appetizers and a cash bar. Register for this free announcement event at pkchamber.ca.

​The Willow Studio is celebrating a grand re-opening on September 21. Angela Demeester took over the business earlier in the summer and is celebrating the new venture with an open house that includes free classes all day, food and drinks, giveaways, and special offers. The Willow Studio offers beginner-friendly yoga and Pilates. As the mother of a son diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, Angela prioritizes accessibility with an accessible studio and she teaches adaptive yoga for children with disabilities. Drop by 1600 Lansdowne Street West on September 21 to see what The Willow Studio has to offer.
 
Local homebuilder Dietrich Homes is being recognized provincially for their great work. They have been named as a finalist for two categories in the Ontario Home Builders’ Association 2024 Awards of Distinction. Dietrich Homes is a finalist for Builder of the Year in the Small Volume category and Production Built Home in the two storeys up to 2,500 square feet category. Winners will be announced September 24 in Niagara Falls. Being one among hundreds of submissions from top builders across the province, it’s great to see the team at Dietrich Homes recognized for their hard work and dedication to building quality homes in the region.
 
A big shout out to Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory which lead a record-breaking Gear up for Good drive. They exceeded their goal of collecting 200 fully-stocked backpacks for local children in need, collecting a total of 208. A big thanks to seven local businesses that stepped up in support of the campaign: Domino's Pizza, Ricart Branded Apparel and Promo, Quaker, Eco Chalet Homes, Mirror Mirror Beauty Salon, Angela's Hair Co, and Hair Studio One. Great news as many kids head back to school this week.
 
Summer Soul Yoga and Wellness Studio is celebrating one year in business! Located at 394 George Street North in Downtown Peterborough, Summer Soul offers an experience that enhances your growth, boosts your happiness, and connects you to a supportive community. They even offer stand up paddleboard yoga on the lake. To celebrate their first year in business, they’re offering three free classes, live music with Deanna Earle, and a number of giveaways like four free months of yoga and Pilates. Find out more at summersoul.ca.