​Nominations are open for Junior Achievement’s Business Hall of Fame. It’s an opportunity to recognize businesses from across Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes who have helped shape our local economy and inspired others through their achievements. Recipients are people who embody a legacy of excellence, displaying unwavering commitment, leadership, and innovation throughout their careers. Visit ja-neo.org to nominate a deserving business in our community. The deadline for nominations is Nov. 29.
 
Kawartha Montessori School is hosting an open house at their beautiful location at 2247 Burnham Line in Otonabee South Monaghan on November 9 from 10am to 12 pm. This is a good opportunity to check out the school if you’re considering Montessori for your child or just curious about their unique learning environment. You will have an opportunity to explore their classrooms and facilities, meet their dedicated teachers, learn about Montessori curriculum, and find out how they nurture independent, confident, and lifelong learners.
 
Get an early start on your gift buying and support Peterborough Symphony Orchestra at the same time by bidding on their auction items. The online auction launched earlier in October and will continue to 4 pm on Saturday, November 2. Starting at 6:30pm that evening, bidding will continue in person at the PSO concert at Showplace and conclude at the post-concert reception in the Cogeco Studio. One of Canada’s foremost piano virtuosos, David Jalbert will be joining the orchestra that evening. Visit thepso.org for more information.
 
Want to be part of the conversation on the direction of tourism in Peterborough County? The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Peterborough County to hold a series of Tourism Talks at various locations. These roundtable discussions are meant to engage local businesses that are involved in, rely on, and otherwise impacted by tourism in the County. We want to get a better understanding of the needs of local businesses and what we can do to create a stronger, thriving local tourism sector for many years to come.
 

​A Peterborough company has launched Canada’s first hard maple seltzer. Maple Light founders were inspired to create the refreshing cocktail while boiling down sap in their sugar shack. Seeing an opportunity, they official launched Maple Light this summer. It’s a drink that is lightly and naturally sweetened with a hint of real maple syrup balanced with subtle citrus notes. The drink is now available at select bars, restaurants, and golf courses and is expected to launch in grocery and convenience stores this fall. You can order it at drinkmaplelight.ca
 
It's time for the third annual Cancer Takedown fundraiser on November 7 from 7 to 10 pm at Market Hall. It’s a night of song, story, and solidarity featuring the comedic genius of Linda Kash and Megan Murphy and music from Melissa Payne, Kate Suhr, The Weber Brothers, and more. All proceeds go to cancer care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Tickets are available at tickets.markethall.org.
 
Thanksgiving may be behind us, but our farming community is still very much at work harvesting their crops that feed our communities. Peterborough County and the local OPP want to remind the rest of us to slow down and be aware that there are large, slow-moving vehicles on roads. The vehicles may not be fast enough to keep up with traffic, but our farmers are on a tight timeline to get the harvest in. Don’t expect them to pull over on the shoulder. Make sure you have a clear path and that the operator knows you’re behind them before passing. It’s the safe and respectful thing to do and the OPP are reinforcing that with careless driving fines for impatient drivers.  
 
We at the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce bid farewell to Sarah Budd, our President and CEO for the last two years. Sarah brought extensive experience from the non-profit world, having served for 15 years as the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough and Kawartha Region. She leaves the Chamber a stronger voice for businesses across the region. She will take that passion and energy for the business community to her new role as the manager of Community Development in the County’s new economic development department.
 

A Right to Heal is teaming up with local business 100 Acre Brewing Company, hosting Friendsgiving on Sunday, October 20 from 2 to 6 pm. This free admission event includes live music, local vendors, corn hole boards, prizes, a food truck, and of course, local craft beer. Located on a beautiful rural lot, 100 Acres Brewing is a great place to enjoy some fall colours. Drop by 390 Ashburnham Drive on October 20 to raise some money for a great local cause and have a good family-friendly time.
 
With colder weather rolling in, it might be a good time to connect with a new local business: Mallard Heating and Air. They do installation, maintenance, and repairs of furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, and fireplaces. Your climate comfort is a priority for Mallard Heating and Air, offering HVAC services that are designed to save you time and money with top-notch heating and air conditioning solutions. They service customers across Peterborough City, County, and Kawartha Lakes. Visit mallardhvac.ca for more information and to book an appointment.
 
In 1984 Ken Grady Sr. founded Grady’s Orthopedic Service from his home. A year later he opened the first Grady’s Shoes storefront in downtown Peterborough. Ken’s son Tony, along with his wife Kelli, bought the store in 1997. Together, they’ve created a legacy of 40 years as the go-to destination for quality comfort footwear. They opened their own storefront at 231 King Street back in 2018, initially as storage, office space, and a pickup location, officially relocating there in 2022. Congratulations Ken, Tony, and Kelli on your incredible legacy, both through your business and as leaders in our community.
 
It's time for Halloween in the Booro. Head downtown Peterborough on Saturday, October 26 from 5 to 8 pm as the streets come alive with frightful fun and sweet surprises. This family-friendly event is organized by the DBIA and is designed to not only bring the community together but also to shine a spotlight on the local businesses that make downtown Peterborough a special and unique destination. There are nearly 30 local businesses joining in the fun, which includes trick or treating, a scavenger hunt for kids, and late-night shopping. Get more information at theboro.ca.