New local history book released, podcast premiers, and AI for non-geeks
Here’s the latest business news from Peterborough area
‘Macdonald and Mrs. Hall’
Ken Brown has a new book about an intriguing bit of local history. It’s called “Macdonald and Mrs. Hall” and it explores the relationship between John A. Macdonald and Peterborough widow Elizabeth Hall, whom he refers to as loving Lizzie. The book uses original primary source research to follow Macdonald, at the time an out-of-town developer, who arrives by train to meet with Hall about developing a 471 acre waterfront land parcel that includes what is now Beavermead Park. Get a copy of the book, which includes many never before published images, at Ashburnham Alehouse, Sullivan’s Pharmacy, the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum, Take Cover Books, Mark Jokinen Books, Trent Valley Archives and in Lakefield at Happenstance.
Hands on: AI made easy for nongeeks
It’s time to develop practical artificial intelligence skills for your business. The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas is launching a new workshop “Hands on: AI made easy for non-geeks” on Wednesday, June 19 from noon to 1 p.m. at Venture North at 270 George St. N. The workshop includes a free lunch and will be led virtually by renowned AI expert B.L. Ochman. She is known for her successful campaigns at IBM and Meijer. For more information go to innovationcluster.ca.
‘Voice of Business’ podcast
There’s a new podcast from the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce called “Voice of Business.” It’s a spinoff of the popular column by the same name and will feature a different guest every second week to talk about local business issues. It’s hosted at Bennett’s Furniture and Mattresses in Peterborough. The first edition features Heather Watson, president of local marketing agency Acorn30, in conversation with me as we talk digital adoption and upcoming technology. You can find it at pkchamber.ca.
Living Well Senior Showcase
Don’t miss the Living Well Senior Showcase Wednesday, June 19, at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Do you have some business news you want to share? The Business Beat is here to promote and share what’s happening locally, like new businesses, new ownership, renovations, new product lines, milestones, new business partnerships, and retirements. We talk about big businesses, small businesses, and people who dabble in business. If you have a suggestion for us to profile, let me know. You can find me at pkchamber.ca or email joel@pkchamber.ca.