Member directory

About Steve Buchanan

Buchanan Kitchen & Bath

Steve Buchanan has been a valued member of the Peterborough Business Social Club for 23 years, making him one of the Club’s longest-standing members. Through more than two decades of involvement, Steve has built lasting friendships and professional connections while supporting the local business community. Steve is the driving force behind Buchanan Kitchen & Bath, a business dedicated to creating beautiful, functional kitchens designed to become the heart of the home. Working alongside a team of qualified and skilled professionals, Steve helps guide customers from their initial consultation through to the final stages of construction. With an emphasis on high-quality products, dependable workmanship and reliable, on-time service, Buchanan Kitchen & Bath strives to make every renovation as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. Steve’s commitment to quality, customer service and strong relationships reflects the same values he has brought to the PTBO Business Social Club throughout his 23 years of membership.

About Joe Grant

LLF Lawyers LLP

Joe Grant is an associate lawyer with LLF Lawyers LLP and a past president of the PTBO Business Social Club. His practice focuses on business and not-for-profit law, municipal law, condominium matters, and residential and recreational real estate. Called to the Ontario Bar in 2007, Joe brings a practical, results-oriented approach to advising individuals, businesses, charities, and community organizations. He has practised with LLF since 2012, following five years with Howell Fleming LLP. Joe's extensive community leadership includes service with Community Futures Peterborough and past leadership roles with the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough Law Association, Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough, and Sales and Ad Club of Peterborough.

About George Ripoll

RBC Dominion Securities

George Ripoll has been a member of the Peterborough Business Social Club since 2021. As a Portfolio Manager & Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities, George works with individuals, families, business owners, and institutions throughout Peterborough and the Kawarthas who want more than a packaged investment solution. George helps clients cut through the noise that can make investing feel complicated and impersonal. His goals-based process begins with each client’s life, priorities, tax considerations, and tolerance for risk, then builds and manages the portfolio around that plan—not the other way around. With a focus on understanding the individual investments clients own, keeping costs and tax drag visible, and maintaining a close, responsive relationship, George provides advice designed to help wealth grow, remain protected, and pass thoughtfully from one generation to the next.

About Mitch Ahrens

Darling Insurance

Mitch Ahrens is a licensed insurance broker with Darling Insurance, where he helps clients understand their coverage options and find practical protection for their needs. Golf has always been an important part of Mitch's life. His father served as the golf professional at Kawartha Golf and Country Club for many years, giving Mitch an early and lasting connection to the game and the club community. Mitch later spent several years at Kawartha as a junior coordinator and pro shop assistant before entering the insurance industry in 2021. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Golf Course Operation and Grounds Management from Georgian College and brings strengths in customer service, sports, social media and business administration to his work. Mitch has been a member of the PTBO Business Social Club since 2022.

About Shawn Harris, CFP, RRC

IG Wealth Management

Shawn leads a team of financial professionals at IG Wealth Management, supporting advisors with comprehensive training, coaching, mentorship and the financial-planning expertise they need to deliver excellent service. He believes that strong, long-term client relationships are essential to helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals at every stage of life.\n\nBeyond his professional work, Shawn has served as president of the Peterborough Youth Soccer Club since 2016. A longtime coach and club leader, he remains actively involved in local soccer initiatives that make participation more accessible and affordable for Peterborough families.

About Paul Berry

The Creative Link

Paul Berry has been a member of the Peterborough Business Social Club since 2024. As a branding and marketing professional with The Creative Link, Paul helps businesses and organizations develop strong, recognizable brands and find creative ways to get noticed. For more than 25 years, The Creative Link has provided a complete range of creative and marketing services. Its capabilities include corporate branding and identity, graphic design, printing, packaging, website and mobile-app development, e-commerce, search optimization, online advertising, social-media marketing and tradeshow displays. Paul brings together creative thinking and a practical understanding of marketing and consumer behaviour to help clients communicate clearly and turn their ideas into cohesive, effective campaigns. From a new logo or website to print materials, digital marketing and event displays, he is focused on producing work that strengthens each client’s brand and supports meaningful business growth.

About Sandy Vandermeulen

Employment Planning & Counselling Peterborough

Sandy Vandermeulen has been an active member of the Peterborough Business Social Club since 2024. With 28 years of experience in employment services—including 18 years with Employment Planning & Counselling Peterborough—she brings extensive knowledge, compassion and practical insight to her role as an Employment Counsellor. Sandy works with clients, job developers and employers to identify career goals, strengthen résumés and interview skills, explore training opportunities and connect people with meaningful employment. Sandy specializes in supporting clients aged 50 and older as they navigate career changes, return to the workforce or pursue new opportunities. She also leads EPC’s monthly 50+ Coffee Club, where mature job seekers share experiences, gain practical information and build confidence through encouragement and peer support. Through EPC, a non-profit organization serving Peterborough and the surrounding area, Sandy helps clients recognize their strengths and move toward a brighter future.

About Andre & Krista Metivier

Your Ontario Mortgage

Andre and Krista Metivier have been members of the Peterborough Business Social Club since 2024. Andre and Krista Metivier are business partners with Your Ontario Mortgage, serving clients throughout Peterborough, the Kawarthas and across Ontario. Their goal is to make home financing straightforward and stress-free by understanding each client’s needs, comparing options and handling the details from application through approval. As part of TMG The Mortgage Group, an award-winning Canadian brokerage with a national network of more than 1,400 mortgage professionals, Andre and Krista can work with a broad range of lenders—including major banks—to find competitive financing tailored to each client. Their services include first-time home purchases, mortgage renewals and refinancing, financing for self-employed applicants, investment properties and other mortgage needs. Andre brings 25 years of experience buying and selling real estate, along with local market knowledge, responsive communication and a practical approach to complex financing situations. Whether a client is buying, renewing, refinancing or simply exploring their options, Andre and Krista focus on personalized service, clear explanations and solutions that support each client’s goals. Andre: andre@yourontariomortgage.ca Krista: krista@yourontariomortgage.ca

About John Cunningham

Ashburnham Funeral Home & Reception Centre

John Cunningham became the owner and managing funeral director of Ashburnham Funeral Home & Reception Centre in 2004, dedicating his career to helping Peterborough-area families honour their loved ones with compassion, dignity and personal care. After selling the business to Dignity Memorial, John remained with Ashburnham as a funeral consultant, continuing to guide families through funeral, cremation, memorial and celebration-of-life arrangements. Ashburnham provides personalized services in a peaceful setting, with options ranging from traditional funerals and intimate visitations to catered receptions, cremation and water cremation. Its experienced team helps families create meaningful tributes that reflect each person’s unique life and story. John has been a member of the Peterborough Business Social Club since 2024. Away from his professional work, he is an enthusiastic musician who plays tuba with three brass bands in the Peterborough area.

About Fred & Annie Preddy

Escape Maze

Fred and Annie Preddy have been members of the Peterborough Business Social Club since 2024. As the owners of Escape Maze, they create memorable experiences that bring families, friends, students and coworkers together through puzzles, teamwork and outdoor adventure. Located on the Preddy family farm near Peterborough, Escape Maze offers indoor escape rooms, tactical laser tag, outdoor puzzle trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, camping, murder mysteries, campfires and seasonal events. Fred and Annie also welcome birthday parties, school trips, family gatherings, corporate groups and sports teams. Their hands-on approach makes every visit welcoming, engaging and fun.

About Brad Fraser

Co-operators General Insurance Company

Brad Fraser is a licensed commercial insurance specialist with Co-operators General Insurance Company. He is passionate about doing what is right for every customer and works closely with business clients to understand their needs and help them choose appropriate insurance protection. Outside his insurance work, Brad is a part-time personal trainer and fitness instructor who also supports fitness enthusiasts. His commitment to health and wellness helps him maintain a positive work-life balance and brings energy, discipline and a people-first approach to both sides of his professional life.

Kevin and April Sendel are local event and catering professionals and the family owners of The Venue in downtown Peterborough. They acquired the landmark George Street event space in 2021, building on their experience as the owners of Personal Touch Catering and Personal Touch Banquet Hall. In October 2026, Kevin and April celebrated five years at The Venue with clients, friends, community partners and local leaders. Mayor Jeff Leal and the Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce recognized the milestone and the Sendels' contribution to the local business community. Their connection to the PTBO Business Social Club runs through some of its most memorable celebrations. Personal Touch hosted the club's Christmas Galas in 2022 and 2023, and The Venue is welcoming members for the 2026 gala. Kevin and April's hospitality, community spirit and commitment to creating memorable local events make them valued members of the club.

Tiffany Daskewich brings extensive experience in membership services, business relations and community engagement to her role at The Venue. Before joining The Venue, she served as Membership Coordinator with the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association and worked closely with business owners to help attract residents and visitors to downtown Peterborough. Tiffany is deeply involved in the local community. She has served as a board member and Vice President of Fundraising for the Kawartha Gymnastics Club, helping strengthen programs and fundraising for young athletes. She is also the Publicity Director for the Women's Business Network of Peterborough, where she leads social media efforts that celebrate members, promote events and build connections. Through Paws with Payge, Tiffany helps families raise funds for service dogs while advocating for awareness and equality for people with disabilities. A proud mom and stepmom to four young adults, Tiffany is also a self-proclaimed foodie and enthusiastic sports fan. She loves fishing, camping and spending summers at her seasonal trailer—her favourite place to relax, recharge and enjoy time with family and friends.

Kevin MacKenzie is Director of Fund Development at the Peterborough Humane Society's Peterborough Animal Care Centre, where he leads community fundraising initiatives including the 50/50 Lottery and Holiday Appeal. With more than 20 years of non-profit fundraising experience, Kevin has led major radiothons, built relationships with major donors, and helped bereaved families establish memorial funds at children's hospitals. Before joining PHS, he spent eight years as Senior Manager of Leadership Giving with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. Kevin is also the proud adoptive dad of Maggie, whose story helps inspire community support for animals in need. He joined the PTBO Business Social Club in 2026.