Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, flanked by Conservative Northumberland-Clarke MP Philip Lawrence and former Conservative Peterborough MP Michelle Ferreri, announcing his party's opposition to the Alto high-speed rail project during a media conference in Keene on March 31, 2026. (kawarthaNOW screenshot of CPAC video)
Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal has issued a statement criticizing Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre after he announced his party’s opposition to the Alto high-speed rail project during a media conference on Tuesday (March 31) at the Indian River Cattle Company in Indian River in Peterborough County.
With former Conservative Peterborough MP Michelle Ferreri and current Conservative Northumberland-Clarke MP Philip Lawrence by his side, the federal opposition leader said the project is a “boondoggle” and called on the Liberal government to cancel it, adding that a future Conservative government would cancel the $90-billion project.
Alto, the Crown corporation overseeing the project, estimates the 1,000-kilometre high-speed rail network between Quebec City and Toronto, with seven stops including one in Peterborough, would cost between $60 billion and $90 billion to complete.
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“My colleagues and I on Peterborough city council and the broader Peterborough community are very disappointed in Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party of Canada for opposing the Alto high speed rail project,” Mayor Leal said in his statement. “The City of Peterborough has been clear that we are in full support of this transformative nation-building project, which has chosen Peterborough as one of seven station stops along the Toronto to Quebec City corridor.”
“It is especially disappointing to see former MP Michelle Ferreri stand beside Mr. Poilievre as he fights to take away this generational opportunity for our region,” the mayor added.
During his 30-minute media conference in Keene, Poilievre began by criticizing both the Trudeau and Carney Liberal governments for inflation, the lack of affordability for housing and food, increases in the federal deficit, unemployment, and the overall state of the economy, before turning to Alto.
Calling it a “ridiculous pie-in-the-sky Liberal spending initiative” and a “$90-billion monstrosity,” Poilievre said the project would cost each Canadian family of four $8,000 in taxes to build, will not pay for itself and will be subsidized by the federal government, won’t be used by most Canadians, and won’t be completed for more than a decade.
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Poilievre then turned to the issue of land expropriation, a concern of many rural communities in eastern Ontario, saying that the proposed route would require the expropriation of thousands of acres across Ontario and Quebec, and referring to the federal expropriation of 97,000 acres of land in 1969 to build the Montréal–Mirabel International Airport, which is currently operating as a cargo airport after passenger service ended in 2004.
“Your property is not safe under this Liberal government,” he said.
Alto is currently conducting an initial public consultation on a 10-kilometre wide corridor between Ottawa and Toronto, with a northern and southern option, prior to determining where the 60-metre wide route would actually run.
Poilievre also claimed that no-one would benefit from the high-speed rail project.
“Other than a tiny group of Liberal lobbyists, consultants, lawyers, bureaucrats, and other insiders, everyone’s going to be worse off,” he said.
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In his statement, Leal said the Alto project “will significantly strengthen economic development, business investment, tourism, and employment opportunities in Peterborough, and the construction will create jobs and opportunities for local businesses.”
“The last time the Conservatives destroyed a national building project was the Avro Arrow in 1959,” Leal said. “That shortsighted decision devastated Canada’s aerospace industry, with many of the country’s top engineers leaving the country. The talent that left Canada from that Conservative decision helped put the Americans on the moon in 1969.”
Leal concluded his statement by saying “the City of Peterborough will continue to work closely with Alto and the Government of Canada to take advantage of the economic and social benefits of this important project.”
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kawarthaNOW reached out to Liberal Peterborough MP Emma Harrison for a comment on Poilievre’s announcement. Her office provided a statement in which Harrison qualified her support for the project.
“I am supportive of the Alto high-speed rail project and the tremendous economic benefits that it will bring to the riding of Peterborough,” Harrison said in a statement. “The benefits of Alto will be felt before the project is complete, as during the construction phase, priority will be given to local businesses and skilled workers in the riding to help build this project.”
However, she added that she has “heard the concerns from community members and other elected officials, and frankly I do share the same concerns when it comes to protecting farmland, environmentally sensitive areas, and people’s homes.”
“(Alto) will be continuing to the next consultation stage later this year, which will address many of the concerns that are being voiced, especially as Alto begins field studies along the proposed route and also begins to contact property owners directly.”
She said she has met with the federal transportation minister and officials from Alto to voice those concerns and suggested “the possibility of an additional consultation in Norwood so the voices of more residents could be heard in this first consultation phase.”
Harrison encouraged members of the public to provide their feedback to Alto by using the online consultation platform, which is available until April 24.
“My office and I remain available to help connect community members with the most up to date information that’s currently available from Alto,” Harrison stated.
This story has been updated to correct the location of Pierre Poilievre’s media conference, which was not at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene as originally reported.
Miller Waste, which collects garbage on behalf of the City of Kawartha Lakes, will no longer collect garbage bags containing recyclable items, like flexible plastics and chip bags, beginning April 20, 2026. Any garbage bags containing recyclables will be tagged and left behind, but will be collected the following week if the recyclable materials have been removed. (Photo: City of Kawartha Lakes)
As of Earth Week in April, Kawartha Lakes residents will need to ensure no recyclable materials are included in their garbage bags, or else the bags won’t be picked up.
The City of Kawartha Lakes announced on Tuesday (March 31) that Miller Waste, which collects garbage on behalf of the municipality, will begin enforcing the city’s waste management by-law beginning Monday, April 20.
As of that date, Miller Waste will tag any garbage bag that contains recyclables with an “Oops” tag and will not collect it, indicating why the bag was left behind.
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If recyclables are removed and the garbage bag is set out again the following week, Miller Waste will collect the previously tagged bag as part of a double collection that week.
“This grace period will be in place until further notice,” states the municipality on its website.
However, if a garbage bag is set out the following week without the recyclables removed, it will continue to be tagged and left behind.
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The municipality’s mandatory waste-sorting requirement is a result of an Ontario-wide expanded recycling program that came into effect on January 1, with a new list of recyclable items that were previously disposed of in garbage.
The new list of recyclable items includes hot and cold beverage cups (coffee cups), black plastic containers, frozen juice containers, ice cream tubs, toothpaste tubes, deodorant containers, foam packaging (including meat trays, takeout containers, cups, plates, bowls, and foam packaging for products), and flexible packaging (including chip bags, pet food bags, bubble wrap, snack wrappers, cereal box liners, deli pouches, and plastic gift bags).
In the City of Kawartha Lakes, garbage is collected by Miller Waste and recycling is collected by Emterra Environmental. According to the City of Kawartha Lakes, the mandatory waste-sorting requirement will help keep collection running smoothly while supporting the municipality’s integrated waste management strategy, which focuses on reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill and increasing recycling and diversion.
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“Properly sorting waste and recycling will help get residents ready for organics program changes starting June 15, which will affect households in the curbside organics program,” the municipality’s website states.
Currently, up to 10 per cent of material in a garbage bag can be organic waste. After June 15, no organic waste will be allowed in garbage bags.
“Starting now with recycling helps ensure residents are ready for these upcoming changes,” the municipality states.
The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) has announced it is shutting down its sex trafficking response program after five years following a decision by the federal government not to renew funding through Public Safety Canada.
KSAC is urging Public Safety Canada to reconsider the decision, and is also calling on all federal leaders to demonstrate their commitment to addressing sexual violence and human trafficking by ensuring continued funding for frontline, survivor-focused services.
“For the past five years, this program has provided essential support to individuals in our community working to escape situations of sex trafficking, heal from trauma, and begin rebuilding their lives,” says Jordanne McLaren, KSAC’s manager of client services and the human trafficking response team, in a media release.
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“The reality is that the need for these services has not disappeared,” McLaren adds. “When funding for anti-trafficking programs is withdrawn, exploitation does not stop; it simply leaves survivors with fewer supports and fewer pathways to safety.”
According to KSAC, in 2025 alone, the program provided specialized support to over 75 individuals experiencing sex trafficking and sexual exploitation across the region, including those currently entrenched, those who have recently exited, and those navigating longer-term recovery.
KSAC says the sex trafficking response program has supported survivors through complex and often life-threatening circumstances by providing trauma-informed advocacy, safety planning, system navigation, and collaboration with community partners.
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“At a time when governments across Canada are publicly acknowledging the seriousness of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, the loss of funding for frontline services is deeply concerning,” states the media release.
“Without sustained investment through programs such as those funded by Public Safety Canada, communities are left with fewer tools to respond to exploitation and fewer supports for survivors trying to rebuild their lives.”
KSAC adds that the federal government’s decision not to renew funding “will have real and immediate consequences for vulnerable people in our community.”
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“Survivors of sex trafficking require specialized, trauma-informed support, and programs like this exist because the need is real and ongoing,” the release states. “It is important for our community to understand that this program is ending not because the need has disappeared, but because the federal funding supporting it has not been renewed.”
KSAC offers free and confidential support services to people affected by sexual violence across Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton, and Northumberland, including crisis support, advocacy, counselling, group programming, and prevention education.
“KSAC remains incredibly proud of the work accomplished by our team over the past five years and of the courage shown by the survivors we have had the privilege to support. While KSAC will continue to provide our core sexual violence services, the closure of this program represents a significant loss for our region.”
Lindsey Irwin is the third owner of The Lakefield Panty, an old-time groceteria that has operated in the Township of Selwyn for 45 years. As a serial entrepreneur, Irwin knows how crucial it is to support local and how difficult it can be make connections with new suppliers while simultaneously running a business. That's why she remains grateful for the support of Peterborough County and their agricultural programming, including the Kawartha Local Food Wholesale and Kawartha Choice FarmFresh programs. (Photo courtesy of The Lakefield Pantry)
As a serial entrepreneur, Lindsey Irwin understands not only the importance of supporting local small business, but just how difficult it can be to make connections while simultaneously running a business. That’s why her business The Lakefield Pantry is participating in Peterborough County’s agricultural programs.
An old-fashioned groceteria, The Lakefield Pantry has been a staple in the Township of Selwyn for 45 years, stocking a range of local fare from beef, breads, cheeses, maple syrup, treats, and bulk foods to home and body products. Irwin, who purchased the business in 2025, is its third owner and is committed to continuing the shop’s legacy of supporting local suppliers.
“The second I opened the doors as an owner, the question I got asked from everybody was ‘Are you local?'” says Irwin, who is a Peterborough County native. “People really cared about this and wanted to know that I know the community and I know the farmers and makers and artisans.”
Also the founder of the successful social enterprise Old Jar Candle Co., Irwin knew it was important to keep this local focus and The Lakefield Pantry continues to maintain these relationships. Today, more than 90 per cent of all the store’s stock is sourced in Peterborough County.
“As a serial entrepreneur and owner of multiple businesses, my world doesn’t exist without local support — without a community of other businesses working in tandem,” says Irwin. “I think that’s the most important thing: supporting each other. That way the community can thrive, too.”
That’s why The Lakefield Pantry is participating in the Kawartha Local Food Wholesale program, an initiative that aims to increase the capacity for local food distribution by connecting buyers with food producers in Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough, and the City of Kawartha Lakes. Through the project’s Green Circle Food Hub, The Lakefield Pantry will be able to source maple syrup, honey, jams and other pantry items from a range of local farmers all in one place.
A legacy business in the Township of Selwyn, The Lakefield Pantry stocks products like maple syrup, jams, beef, bread and other items made as close to home as possible. Since it can be hard to connect with local farmers while running her business, owner Lindsey Irwin counts on support from the Kawartha Choice FarmFresh and Kawartha Local Food Wholesale programs delivered in part by Peterborough County. (Photo courtesy of The Lakefield Pantry)
“Since taking over the store, I barely have the time to be knocking on doors and trying to source or vet the quality of things,” Irwin points out. “It’s really hard once you’re actually working in your business to work on your business.”
The same applies to food producers, she adds.
“They’re busy because they’re farmers. They’re not sitting and staring at their phones waiting to hear from people. They’re taking care of their animals. So that in-between can make it a lot easier for us, and I like a seamless solution whenever I can find it.”
To further strengthen local connections, The Lakefield Pantry is also a member of the Kawartha Choice FarmFresh, an economic development program delivered by Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough, and the City of Kawartha Lakes. The program provides a brand identity for local producers, a network for members to share and access resources, and an online database for buyers to find farmers.
The support and growth from these two programs has assured Irwin that Peterborough County is committed to supporting the local agriculture sector, from farmers to food retailers like The Lakefield Pantry, every step of the way.
“They are always checking in and making sure that we’re okay and we’re supported, and I appreciate that so much,” Irwin says. “Being part of their network where they share ideas and launch new programs and try new things — that’s invaluable.”
The Lakefield Pantry is located at 44 Queen Street in downtown Lakefield. For more information, visit lakefieldpantry.ca.
The Local Advantage in Peterborough County is a branded editorial feature series celebrating the farmers, food producers, food retailers, and agri-tourism businesses that make The Kawarthas thrive, created in partnership with Peterborough County’s Economic Development & Tourism Division.
Agriculture is a key economic driver and a point of pride for Peterborough County, with local farms producing a wide variety of high-quality goods, from traditional crops and livestock to organic and specialty products, reflecting the strength and diversity of this vital sector. With a growing focus on sustainability, local food systems, agri-innovation, and agri-tourism, agriculture offers strong potential for growth and diversification.
The Local Advantage with Peterborough County series spotlights the Kawartha Choice FarmFresh and Kawartha Local Food Wholesale initiatives, which aim to strengthen connections from farm to table across our region.
For more information about economic development and tourism in Peterborough County, visit www.ptbocounty.ca/ecdev and The Kawarthas Tourism at thekawarthas.ca.
"Young Frankenstein" director Nate Axcell at the Peterborough Theatre Guild. The musical comedy, based on the 1974 film of the same time by Mel Brooks, runs for 11 performances from April 17 to May 3, 2026. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
Never mind checking the oversized creature for vital signs — if you don’t find what’s about to transpire on the Peterborough Theatre Guild stage ridiculously funny, you best check yourself for some sign of life.
For the final production of the 2025-26 season, the theatre company is presenting the musical version of Young Frankenstein. with 11 performances from April 17 to May 3.
Featuring music and lyrics by Mel Brooks with a book by Brooks and Thomas Meehan, the Margaret Peiper-produced musical is based on the critically acclaimed 1974 film of the same name.
Shot in black and white, the film introduced audiences to some still-memorable characters. There’s Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced Fronk-en-steen), there’s his hunchbacked assistant Igor (pronounced Eye-gore), and there’s Inga, the doctor’s love interest.
And then there’s the monster he creates in the laboratory of the Transylvania castle he inherited from family — the result of his desire to finish the work started by his late grandfather, Victor Frankenstein.
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The film’s creators called on the considerable comedic talents of Gene Wilder, Marty Feldman, Teri Garr, Peter Boyle, and Madeline Khan to make it work. There’s no such benefit here for Nate Axcell but, as director of the Peterborough Theatre Guild production, there’s the motivating challenge of presenting a fresh take of a storyline that will no doubt be familiar to many audience members.
During a sit-down with kawarthaNOW at the Guild Hall, Axcell says his goal is to present “something new but familiar.”
“When you do a show like this, you’re somewhat locked in because there are expectations that come with it,” he says. “If there are certain beats that people are looking for, depending on what they are, sometimes you do them exactly the way people are expecting. However, if I can throw my twist on it, those beats are still there, but it still surprises them. Then it’s the best of both worlds.”
While the Guild has presented musicals in past seasons, most of those have been at the Showplace Performance Centre, due mainly to the stage room needed for the large ensemble cast of a typical musical. Although Axcell is directing “a pretty big cast” of 25 actors for Young Frankenstein, he says the stage at the Guild Hall is more than enough.
“It fits really nicely in that it fills the space well,” Axcell says. “I think it’s actually easier do it here. It is a smaller stage. You can’t have a cast of 40 people, but if you take the size of the show and scale it down a little bit, it becomes almost the same venue (as Showplace).”
There’s the added benefit of rehearsing on the same stage where the show will be performed, unlike Guild musicals staged at Showplace.
“The nicest thing about doing a show here is you’re on the stage you’re going to perform on months ahead of when the production opens,” he says. “If you’re troubleshooting something when you get to Showplace, it’s almost show time. Here, we’re troubleshooting stuff already.”
Some of the cast for the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s production of the Mel Brook’s musical “Young Frankenstein,” based on his classic 1974 horror-comedy film of the same name, which runs for 11 performances from April 17 to May 3, 2026. (Graphics: Peterborough Theatre Guild)
As for the 25-member cast, Axcell says “I’m lucky to work with such talented people.”
“When you get many people out to audition, you tend to get a wide range of talent. They’re going to make me look good because they’re such good performers. I don’t have to do too much. It’s kind of just molding everything, making sure the big picture all fits together. The cast is phenomenal.”
Among the cast are Tom Stanley, who plays Dr. Frankenstein, Anna Hykaway portraying Inga, and James Burell, who brings Igor to life.
“The main thing I look for is whether or not people have the ability to change their portrayal of a character on the spot,” says Axcell.
“I’ll get somebody to do a reading in the way he or she feels they should do it, and then I ask them to do it a slightly different way. If they’re able to make that pivot, I know that we can work together. Now there can be a back and forth — they can give their vision, I can give my vision, and we find somewhere in the middle.”
Other members of the leading company are Rainey Smith (Elizabeth Benning), Jocelyn Enright (Hermit), Lindsay Unterlander (Frau Blücher), Matt Kraft (Inspector Kemp), and Blair Waller (The Monster).
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For Axcell, working with the actors also means giving them as much leeway as possible within the confines of the established script.
“I am a big fan of improv. There are certain parts of this show where I’ve allowed the actors freedom to do a particular part as they see fit. That doesn’t change the story in any sort of meaningful way, but if they want to change their body movement a little bit or make a slightly different pop culture reference, there’s room for them to do that.”
“We can’t change it too much because our contract says we’re not allowed to, but there’s a little bit of wiggle room for the way you say a line or the way you present something.”
Not surprisingly, a big part of any musical is the music itself.
Young Frankenstein features a number of fun numbers in the form of “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas Was My Boyfriend,” and ‘”Puttin’ on the Ritz,” to name a few. Enter seasoned music director Justin Hiscox and choreographer Heather Boyd.
Some of the cast for the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s production of the Mel Brook’s musical “Young Frankenstein,” based on his classic 1974 horror-comedy film of the same name, which runs for 11 performances from April 17 to May 3, 2026. (Graphics: Peterborough Theatre Guild)
“We’re still doing vocal rehearsals to make sure everybody is as comfortable as possible with all the harmonies,” says Axcell, adding that process will continue “right up until dress rehearsals” in April.
“People’s ability to read music varies, so there are times when you have to give a little more guidance to make sure everyone is at the same level as everyone else. Justin’s role is invaluable … plus he brings the band together.”
Axcell also has acting experience himself, most recently in the Anne Shirley Theatre Company’s production of The Play Goes Wrong back in November 2024. Before that, he was part of the cast for the Guild’s spring 2023 staging of the musical comedy Something Rotten!
“I think it makes me a better director,” he says of his acting experience. “Some people truly have unparalleled vision. I’m not going to pretend I’m sort of a savant or anything, but having acting allows me to see things from the actor’s perspective, which just makes it more fun. I say often community theatre should be fun for the audience and for the people on stage.”
Axcell adds his acting experience also makes him more empathetic as a director — “I know what it feels like.”
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As opening night on April 17 nears, Axcell says there are some things he’ll be looking for that will tell him that he and his cast nailed it.
“One of the less obvious things, but obvious to me, is if we successfully tricked (the audience) into thinking they’ve seen a show that’s as good a quality as a Toronto show,” he laughs, adding “That’s not to diminish the type of shows we put on. They just have a lot more money than we do.”
Another sign for Axcell will be positive “unsolicited feedback” from the audience.
“Friends and family are going to say ‘Good job’ regardless, but some stranger saying ‘Hey, really great job!’ means we’ve impacted them enough that they’ve gone out of their way to actually let us know. It costs nothing to walk out the door and say nothing. It takes time and effort to have an interaction with what is essentially a stranger.”
Staging a musical comedy, especially one that has such an established pedigree and is based on such an iconic film, brings the risk of not meeting the audience’s expectations that it’s going to be funny.
“I don’t think that’s going to be the case here,” Axcell says. “We’re working with really great actors and we’re working with really good source material. I’m quite confident. You can quote me as saying ‘You are going to laugh.'”
The creative team for the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s production of the Mel Brook’s musical “Young Frankenstein,” based on his classic 1974 horror-comedy film of the same name, which runs for 11 performances from April 17 to May 3, 2026. (Graphics: Peterborough Theatre Guild)
Offstage, besides Hiscox and Boyd, the creative team includes assistant choreographer Laura Collings, stage manager Tina Barnes, assistant stage manager Ty McKeen, sound/lighting designer Andy Duncan, costume designer Brenna Goldie, hair/makeup designer Shelley Moody, and photographer Jordan Lyall.
Young Frankenstein will be staged at the Guild Hall at 364 Rogers Street in Peterborough’s East City with evening performances at 7:30 p.m. on April 17 and 18, April 23 to 25, and April 30 to May 2, and 1:30 p.m. matinee performances on April 19 and May 3.
All Creatures Great and Small in Cobourg was the recipient of the inaugural Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Award at the Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce's 23rd annual Business Achievement Awards in partnership with the Town of Cobourg. One of nine awards presented on March 27, 2026, the IDEA Award recognizes businesses that have taken proactive steps to raise awareness about the importance of welcoming and accommodating all. (Photo courtesy of Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce)
The Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Town of Cobourg, has announced the winners of the 23rd annual Business Achievement Awards.
The winners were celebrated at an awards ceremony on Friday night (March 27) at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn and Convention Centre in Cobourg.
This year’s awards featured nine updated and new categories, with other award categories returning next year.
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“By moving to a two-year awards cycle, we have been able to divide some of the broader categories into more specific awards, ensuring that every nominee competes on a truly level playing field,” said Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce board chair Tanya Colford when announcing a call for nominations in January.
To qualify for a Business Achievement Award, businesses must be located in the Town of Cobourg, the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand, or the Township of Hamilton, and must have been operating for a minimum of two years.
This year’s winners are:
Entrepreneurship Award: Kerry Viggiani of Here She Creates Studio
IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility) Award:- All Creatures Great and Small
Farming & Agribusiness Award: Dirty Dog Cider and Unique Eats & Garden Treats
Health & Wellness Sector Award: Five Counties Children’s Centre
Not-For-Profit Community Services Award: Northumberland United Way
Outstanding Customer Experience Award: Vandermeer Toyota
Professional Services Award: Baker Tilly Cobourg KDN LLP
Small Retail Trade Award (9 or fewer employees): Spark – Smart Toys for Cool Kids
Sarah Batley (with the ball) and Zoe King of the Peterborough Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), a co-ed Gaelic football club established in 2022. King is one of four female members of the club who have been selected to play for the Canada 1 Team at the 2026 Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) World Games from July 13 to 17 in Waterford, Ireland. The newly established PTBO Women's Initiative Network (PTBO WIN) is hosting a series of spring fundraisers to cover the costs of sending the four amateur athletes to Ireland. In addition, Batley will be joining the Canada 1 team in Ireland where Peterborough GAA founder Tracy Campbell will be the assistant coach. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough GAA)
Four female Gaelic football athletes in Peterborough are going to compete internationally at the Gaelic World Games in Ireland this summer, with a new network that supports local women aiming to raise funds to help cover costs.
The PTBO Women’s Initiative Network (PTBO WIN) has launched with the long-term vision of advocating for and supporting women as they pursue their goals in sport, business, and beyond.
According to a media release, the network’s mission is to “create inclusive spaces where women can grow personally, professionally, share resources, and support one another while strengthening the wellbeing and leadership of women.”
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“What started as a couple of women meeting at a networking breakfast quickly turned into a dedicated group of women committed to supporting other women in the community,” says PTBO WIN President Kelly Carbajal in the release. “We recognized very quickly that there is a real need in the area for women pursuing their goals and dreams. Our hope is that the Ptbo Women’s Initiative Network can make a meaningful difference for these incredible athletes and for so many more women in the future.”
In their first project, the network will be supporting four local athletes who have been selected to play for the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) Canada 2 Team at the 2026 Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) World Games, being held July 13 to 17 in Waterford, a city in southeast Ireland. Held every three years, the five-day event will see over 2,000 players from more than 25 countries compete in men’s and ladies’ Gaelic football, hurling, and camogie.
The local athletes chosen to compete on the team are Zoe King, Ciara Gunn, Michelle Schevers, and Tash Ennis. All four athletes are members of the Peterborough GAA, a co-ed Gaelic football club officially established by Tracy Campbell in 2022.
Zoe King, Ciara Gunn, Michelle Schevers, and Tash Ennis of the Peterborough Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) have been selected to play for the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) Canada 2 Team at the 2026 GAA World Games, being held July 13 to 17 in Waterford, Ireland. (Graphics courtesy of Peterborough GAA)
“It really just started off as a small group of people who were athletic and wanted to play and learn a new sport,” says King. “It’s spiralled and grown and developed into a major club here in Peterborough, and now we go to tournaments in Montréal, Ottawa, and Toronto. We’re competing with a team of upwards of 30 or 40 members right now. It’s really amazing to be part of a team that has such a strong community focus and has really grown and developed.”
Also headed to Ireland, Peterborough GAA member Sarah Batley will be joining the Canada 1 team, as will Peterborough GAA founder Tracy Campbell, who will be the assistant coach.
While some of the women representing Peterborough this year have previously played at the World Games, they were representing a different city’s club at the time. Batley is the only Peterborough GAA athlete to have ever competed in the competition. That was in 2023, when the national team earned a silver medal — losing by just one point.
“I think a lot of the girls, both one and two teams, are really out for revenge now,” King says. “We’re out to take that championship back home this World Games.”
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For those unfamiliar with Gaelic football, King describes it as “almost like rugby and soccer combined.” It is a fast-paced team sport in which both teams aim to kick or punch the ball into the net for three points, or over the crossbar for one point.
Players can move the ball up the field by kicking, hand-passing, dribbling, or soloing (kicking it back up to themselves like a game of hacky sack), but can only take four steps before they must pass or solo.
“It’s a very niche and unique sport here in Canada, but in Ireland it is everything,” says King. “It’s the hockey of Canada to them. It’s the most played sport and it’s the most watched sport, and people really are passionate about the sport because it has those really close ties to Ireland and culture of the Gaelic revival.”
VIDEO: An example of Gaelic football (with commentators speaking Gaelic)
Despite the game being so beloved (or, more likely, because it is so beloved), Gaelic football is an entirely amateur sport. Even the best players are not being paid.
“It makes it harder to progress in sports when you are never going to be paid,” says King. “Even if you’re playing at the very top tier level in all Ireland finals, you’re never going to get paid, so having support from the community to cover these costs is so important.”
With about $60,000 required for each team to cover travel, registration, training, and other costs, PTBO WIN is aiming to support the women by raising $20,000 through local fundraising events.
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These events include:
PTBO WIN 100 x 100 Campaign: Until July 1, PTBO WIN is seeking 100 community members or businesses to contribute $100 each.
PTBO WIN Launch Food Festival: On Saturday, June 6, PTBO WIN will be hosting a festival in the Peterborough Square courtyard from 2 to 7 p.m. that will include food vendors, live music, shopping booths, and opportunities to meet the athletes and PTBO WIN members.
PTBO WIN World Games Send Off: On Sunday, June 28, from noon to 4 p.m., PTBO WIN will be sending off the athletes with a celebration at 100 Acres Brewing Co. in Peterborough. The afternoon will include food and drink sales, a silent auction, live music, and Gaelic football demonstrations. Guests will have the chance to participate in interactive challenges, win prizes, and wish their best to the competing athletes. Tickets will be priced at $20 per entry, which includes a free drink, or $40 for families.
The Peterborough Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) is a co-ed club founded in 2022 by Tracy Campbell that supports and develops Gaelic football locally. The newly established PTBO Women’s Initiative Network (PTBO WIN) aims to raise $20,000 to help cover travel, registration, training, and other costs for four amateur female athletes who have been selected to play for Canada at the 2026 GAA World Games from July 13 to 17 in Waterford, Ireland. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough GAA)
Local athletes of the Canada 2 team are also hosting a series of local events on their own to contribute to their fundraising. These include:
On online raffle that will support both the Canada 1 Team and Canada 2 Team, on now until Friday, May 1. Prizes include a $1,000 flight voucher, a signed Toronto Maple Leafs jersey, and more. Tickets can be purchased through individual athletes or at local events.
A square dancing event, including live music and a raffle draw, held at The Social Pub in downtown Peterborough on Friday, April 10 from 8 to 10 p.m. Tickets will be $15 at the door.
An indoor co-ed volleyball tournament held on Saturday, May 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School in Peterborough. Registration is now open at www.arribavolleyball.com/coed-tourney-registration-may-2/.
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The Canada 2 team is also still looking for sponsors, including the main sponsor whose logo will be displayed on their jerseys at the World Games.
“To be able to go and compete at this international level is such an honour and it comes with a cost, so every little penny of support that we can fundraise from our local community is so meaningful and important,” King says, expressing her gratitude for PTBO WIN and the community.
“We’re really thankful to this group of amazing women that want to come together and help, but also the community that’s going to help us get there at the end of the day. We’re so thankful and hope these events are successful.”
Victoria Shepherd became the general manager of FLATO Academy Theatre in Lindsay in March 2025. She previously had a 20-year career in the music industry as well as over 35 years of experience as a freelance theatre director in Toronto. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
Over the course of several decades, those who have assumed the role of general manager of FLATO Academy Theatre have shared a common but unstated objective: get and remain on Mary’s good side.
And so it is for Victoria Shepherd who, just more than one year on the job at the historic performing arts venue in Lindsay, has made her acquaintance with the ghost that calls the 134-year-old building home.
When the 900-seat theatre opened its doors in 1893, it was billed as the most technically perfect theatre in Canada. However, it was heated by three furnaces that needed to be fed coal constantly, a task completed by a couple who lived in an apartment on the third floor. Local legend has it that, one day, the female half of the couple lost her footing on the stairs while heading down to the furnaces and died as a result.
Since then, it is said that her spirit — affectionately named Mary — has made her presence known by moving objects, lowering the lights, opening and closing doors, and habitually occupying her favourite seat in the front row.
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“Over the first few months, I would go into the theatre when nobody else was there and, because the acoustics are so great, I would hang out in front of the stage and sing a little song,” says Shepherd.
“One night, I was getting ready to do my solo concert and I heard some banging. I didn’t have the courage to go in. I feel like I was judged a little harshly. I feel she exercised some quality control about my singing. I was a little hurt, but I get it.”
Describing the ghost as “mischievous but never malevolent,” Shepherd says whether or not Mary approves of her hiring “is a good question but gosh, I hope so.”
What matters more is the Academy Theatre’s board did, and so here she is.
“I was looking for a new role,” recalls Shepherd, adding “I had been doing some chief of staff stuff, not particularly enjoying it but really enjoying the money. I had this fabulous recruiter who said to me ‘Is this really filling your cup? Your resume is arts leadership. Go do something you want that you’re going to love.'”
“I saw this job posting and I thought ‘Wow.’ It almost seemed like a gift from the gods. I did some googling of the theatre and fell a little bit in love with her age, and her ghost, and very fortuitously got the opportunity to interview for the job.”
Designed by Peterborough architect W. Blackwell, the 900-seat Academy Theatre in Lindsay opened its doors in 1893. Famous performers included a five-year-old Marie Dressler, a young Sammy Davis Jr. and the Marx Brothers. Pictured is the theatre circa 1940, showing the films “It All Came True” and “Pride of the Blue Grass.” In 1953, the theatre began to struggle after the opening of tje new movie show-house The Century Theatre and, over the next decade, the theatre was often closed and eventually was put up for sale. (Photo: FLATO Academy Theatre)
At that point, Shepherd says, she “did the thing you’re never supposed to do — I fangirled over a board member.”
That board member is Erica Ehm, the writer, actor, songwriter, entrepreneur, and TV host who is best known as a pioneering video jockey at MuchMusic during the 1980s and early ’90s. After Ehm purchased a property outside of Lindsay, she was invited to become a member of the non-profit theatre’s board of directors.
“Erica Ehm reached out to me and asked me for some information,” Shepherd recalls. “I emailed her ‘I know this is maybe unorthodox, but I have to tell you that you were a huge part of my young womanhood. I’d come home from high school every day, go down to the basement and watch my MuchMusic.'”
While Shepherd wonders if that was a prudent move, what isn’t in doubt is the Academy’s board chose wisely in naming her the theatre’s general manager.
From 2010 to 2016, Shepherd was executive director of CONNECT Music Licensing Services Inc., which administers licences in Canada for the reproduction of sound recordings, and the reproduction and broadcast of music videos on behalf of their copyright owners.
After a one-year-stint as a strategic consultant for the same company, 2017 saw Shepherd take on the role of director of operations for the Canadian Live Music Association, which advances and promotes the economic, social and cultural benefits of Canada’s live music industry.
Come 2022, Shepherd was executive director of Visual Arts Mississauga, a not-for-profit that is one of that municipality’s pillar arts and culture organizations focused on community engagement in the arts education and exhibition realms.
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“As soon as I dove into the website and saw its history and who had graced its stage, I thought ‘There’s so much opportunity to do amazing things here,'” says Shepherd of her initial draw to the Academy Theatre.
“I’ve always had a little bit of a love affair with the Kawartha Lakes. Many years ago, we used to cottage here and, and at one point, it was a dream of ours to live here. My husband and I had been thinking about what life looks like for us. He’s a country boy and he had done his time in Toronto, and then this job came up. It checked some very important boxes.”
After a few months commuting, learning “to hate the 401” in the process, Shepherd and her husband moved to Lindsay in January.
Long before then, in the downstairs office she shares with assistant manager Vangi Patton and administrator Alan Couttreau, Shepherd contemplated the job at hand.
“When you come in as the new kid, you don’t want to create upheaval right away,” she says.
“I was really lucky. Allan is a fantastic resource of institutional knowledge. He sort of held my hand and let me know the state of the nation. The board is absolutely brilliant. We have 12 committees that keep this place running.”
“I spent my first six months learning the lay of the land. As time went on, one of the things I realized I really want to focus on is community involvement with the theatre. She’s such a gem.”
“I honestly thought I would never find another job that I loved, but here I am,” says FLATO Academy Theatre general manager Victoria Shepherd. “I still get a thrill every time I walk into the theatre.” (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
Crediting board member Andrew Archibald and the programming committee he heads up, Shepherd says the theatre is seeing increased use by local groups. She cites a Remembrance Day-themed play presented in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion as one example, but there are many more.
“We’re really want the community to feel like this place has always been here overlooking Kent Street,” she says, the goal being “to welcome more people through its doors so it becomes a no-brainer — ‘It’s Friday night. What am I doing? I’m going to the Academy to see a show.'”
Another aim, says Shepherd, is convincing seasonal residents and visitors that “this is a must-attend while they’re here vacationing.”
Anchoring Shepherd’s confidence over attracting new audiences on a scale never seen before is her conviction that “there’s something really magical about this place” — and that’s not just a good-natured spirit named Mary.
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Not unlike every performance venue manager, Shepherd’s challenge lies in striking the right balance between bringing in big-name acts that virtually guarantee a full house and making the venue more accessible to local events as per her stated desire. After all, the theatre, which is owned by a foundation, has to be viable when all is said and done.
Based on her track record in past roles meeting challenges head on and overcoming them, the safe money is on Shepherd doing likewise at the Academy.
In the meantime, one year on and one week on, she’s more convinced than ever that this is where she belongs; where she’s meant to be at this point of her life.
“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind,” she reflects. “I worked at my first industry job for 19 years … loved it. I eventually chose to leave it and I honestly thought I would never find another job that I loved, but here I am. I still get a thrill every time I walk into the theatre.”
In 1963, the Academy Theatre Foundation was formed and bought the then-stuggling venue for $18,000, with the community raising $40,000 for renovations. In 2021, FLATO Developments Inc. acquired naming rights for the theatre with a 15-year $1.375 million sponsorship agreement. (Photo: FLATO Academy Theatre)
“One of the things I’m really excited about is we have a brilliant board member who is an actor and leads the theatre committee,” Shepherd says. “In the fall, we’re bringing our own theatre company back with a production of Clue.”
“And we have an amazing woman in our community, Beth Wilson, who does a fall musical for us every year. She is just a shining star. She did A Christmas Story for us last November. She had 45 cast members and she sold almost 2,000 tickets.”
“For many years, there was summer theatre here. It’s always been a dream of this particular board member, and myself, to bring theatre back here. I do have my eye on directing here on our stage one day.”
An admirable ambition, for sure, but first things first, and that includes a crystal ball-like look into the future.
“Here’s where the Academy is going to be in 10 or 15 years. We will have a full season of at least three to four plays produced by the Academy Theatre Company. We will continue to welcome the community through our doors. Things like Music Monday and the open mic series will be beloved traditions.”
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“We’re going to get to the point where people’s agents reach out to us asking for the opportunity to perform here,” Shepherd affirms. “And we’re going to expand our membership program offerings so people are here in the theatre, and they’re bringing business colleagues, friends, and family, and the theatre is full every night. Not sold out — I’m realistic — but at least 75 per cent.”
Ambitious? For sure. Achievable? Absolutely in Shepherd’s view, which is what really matters. That, and ensuring all who come to the Academy have a great experience thanks to the theatre’s volunteers and staff.
“We have this incredible army of volunteers and they make everything magic,” says Shepherd, adding “There’s a personal greeting. ‘Did you have a good time? Can I help you find your seat? How can I help you?'”
“Last week, we had the Snowed In Comedy Tour. I came in after and there were emails from audience members saying ‘We had so much fun. Please book them again.’ But my favourite emails are the ones complimenting the staff and volunteers. Those make me smile.”
For more information about the FLATO Academy Theatre and for details of upcoming shows, visit www.flatoacademytheatre.com.
Trent Valley Archives Theatre has announced the 14-member cast of its third history play, "The Kid from Simcoe Street," which runs from June 4 to 7, 2026 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. In the play, which is based on the memoir of retired justice and poet James Clarke of his childhood in Peterborough, three actors will portray Clarke as a child, teen, and senior, including Charlie Harris, Zoe Shufelt (top right) and Jim Mills (bottom right). (Poster and photos courtesy of Trent Valley Archives Theatre)
Trent Valley Archives Theatre has announced the 14-member cast of The Kid from Simcoe Street, its latest fundraising history play which will have its world premiere in June at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough, including the three actors who will play the main character at different times in his life.
That character is James Clarke, a Peterborough native who overcame childhood adversity before, during, and after the Second World War to eventually become an esteemed lawyer, judge, and poet.
The play is a coming-of-age story based on Clarke’s 2012 memoir of the same name, in which he recounts a childhood growing up in poverty in a Peterborough neighbourhood. His father abandons his family — Clarke and his mother and two sisters — to volunteer to fight overseas in the Second World War and when he returns, wounded and likely suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, becomes an alcoholic, shattering his wife’s dreams and casting a shadow of violence over Clarke’s childhood.
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Surviving a dysfunctional family, Clarke goes on to attend McGill University and Osgoode Hall, practising law in Cobourg for many years before his appointment to the bench in 1983. Clarke served on the Ontario Court of Justice from 1990 to 1999 and the Superior Court of Justice from 1999 until his retirement in 2008. He is also the author of more than 20 books of poetry, and he includes a selection of his poems in his memoir.
The Trent Valley Archives Theatre stage adaptation of Clarke’s memoir was written by Ed Schroeter and Gerry McBride, who co-wrote last year’s Crossing Over, along with David Frances Clarke — James Clarke’s grandson.
In a media release, Schroeter says the decision to cast three actors to portray Clarke at the ages of 10, 18, and 72 was made as it would be “extremely challenging” for one actor to convincingly do.
“I’ve seen it done that way before, but it can leave the audience cold,” Schroeter adds.
VIDEO: “The Kid from Simcoe Street” – Trent Valley Archives Theatre
The youngest iteration of Clarke, “Jimmy,” will be played by Charlie Harris, a 13-year-old Grade 8 student at Adam Scott Intermediate School. While he has performed with Showmakers PTBO, a musical theatre program for children and teens, The Kid from Simcoe Street is his first foray into adult theatre.
Zoe Shufelt, who plays Clarke as a teenager named “Jimbo,” is a Grade 12 student at St. Peter’s Catholic Secondary School who recently directed Clue at the school’s drama program and will be performing in the St. James Players production of The Addams Family in April. A volunteer at the Peterborough Theatre Guild, Shufelt’s first-ever acting role was in the St. Peter’s production of Newsies: The Musical last February, before going on to perform the role of Francis Young in Crossing Over last May.
Portraying Clarke in his later years is veteran actor Jim Mills, who has been involved in theatre since he was six years old. The Donwood resident, who most recently performed in the Anne Shirley Theatre Company’s production of Frozen, has appeared in more than 30 productions, commercials, short films, and music videos. Some of his most memorable roles are Dr. Scott (Rocky Horror, 2013), Henry (Criminals in Love, 2015), a cross-dressing wolf (Shrek, 2018), and Grandpa Joe (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, 2025).
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Trent Valley Archives Theatre has also announced 11 other cast members, including seven who have performed in either one or both of Trent Valley’s two previous productions, Tide of Hope and Crossing Over: Lily Faulkner (Jim’s sister Shirl), Nathan Govier (Fire Chief Virgil Frazer / Michael), June Govier (Pete), Kaza Hesselink (Josh / DD Potts), Lauren Murphy (Jim’s mom Florie), Ashley Parker (Firefighter Hank), and Kalla Tahon (housekeeper Gabby).
New to Trent Valley Archives Theatre are Trudy Connor (as Jim’s kid sister Babe), Ron Jewer (Jim’s father Sam), Sarah Myles (Albert / Father Leo / Sister Mary), and Kelly O’Dwyer-Manuel (Newsman / Alice / Coach Johnny).
Directed and cast by Drew Mills and stage-managed by Barb Mills for the second year in a row, The Kid from Simcoe Street will be staged from June 4 to 7 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough, with evening performances at 7:30 p.m. on June 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. matinee performances on June 6 and 7.
The play is recommended for audiences aged 14 and older due to some challenging content and runs approximately 90 minutes, with a 20-minute intermission.
VIDEO: James Clarke on his memoir “The Kid from Simcoe Street”
Tickets cost $40 for assigned cabaret table seating or $30 for regular assigned seating and are available online at www.markethall.org.
Trent Valley Archives launched Trent Valley Archives Theatre in 2023 to raise funds by staging theatrical productions about local historical events and to lay a foundation for developing new members, volunteers, and audiences.
The Kid from Simcoe Street is the company’s third production, with its inaugural production Tide of Hope staged in 2024 followed by Crossing Over in 2025.
Proceeds from ticket sales will support the non-profit charitable organization, which houses an extensive and growing collection of local historical resources and makes them available to the public. Trent Valley Archives also encourages local and family history research, operates a facility, and raises awareness of local history through historical tours, events, publications, and presentations.
kawarthaNOW is proud to be a media sponsor for The Kid from Simcoe Street.
Engaging in fibre arts is proven to have a number of substantial mental, emotional, and physical health benefits including reducing stress, improving motor skills, and enhancing cognitive function. Deanna Guttman, owner of Needles in the Hay in downtown Peterborough, is offering a series of classes in crocheting, knitting, weaving, and macrame this spring for both beginners and advanced fibre artists. (Photo courtesy of Needles in the Hay)
Did you know that there are numerous mental, emotional, and physical benefits to engaging in fibre arts? Stress relief, improved motor skills, and enhanced cognitive function are just a few of the benefits you can enjoy by taking a class at Needles in the Hay in downtown Peterborough this spring.
Selling a curated collection of unique products and premium natural fibre yarns, Deanna Guttman’s boutique store also hosts single-day and multi-day classes for various fibre arts in The Hayloft, a workshop space located above the shop.
Whether you’re just beginning or looking for more advanced lessons, prefer learning in a one-on-one session, or want to build a community of other enthusiasts, the experienced staff will support you so you can get hooked on all the benefits of fibre arts.
“I hear all the time from people who come to classes because they want to stop doom-scrolling and keep their hands busy in some other ways,” says Guttman. “It’s great for taking our minds off everything going on in the world, and a bit like meditation because it helps you change your thought patterns.”
Since spring is the season of crochet, you can take a beginner-friendly, no-experience-required class that will guide you on making a stylish storage basket using basic stitches. For those who already have the basics covered, take on a challenge by learning something new with the two-day classes that will walk you through the art of making granny squares or a summer-ready handbag.
Since it’s more three-dimensional than knitting, crocheting is great for making home décor items, tote bags, and sunhats. Because true crochet can’t be done by machine, it will be obvious how much time and care you have put into every stitch.
Weaving a tapestry wall hanging and crocheting granny squares are just two skills you can learn by taking beginner or intermediate fibre arts classes hosted by Needles in the Hay in downtown Peterborough. Selling a curated collection of unique products and premium natural fibre yarns, Deanna Guttman’s boutique store also hosts single-day and multi-day classes for various fibre arts in The Hayloft, a workshop space located above the shop. (Photos courtesy of Needles in the Hay)
If you have never touched a knitting needle in your life, you’re in luck as Guttman is once again leading a two-part beginner class. Those who already know how to knit and purl can join the Next Step in Knitting classes to gain confidence in other knitting techniques, including making a basic cable, blocking, and long tail cast-on and joining in the round.
Intermediate knitters ready to level up can join Needles in the Hay for classes on knitting a pair of socks or on the essentials of fair isle colour work. An all-new class being offered this year, Lace Knitting 101 will provide you with the foundational skills of lace knitting and top-down triangular shawl shaping, while you follow a deceptively simple shawl pattern.
For those interested in a more relaxed activity that requires no prior experience and is not skill-intensive, Needles in The Hay is also leading tapestry weaving and macrame classes that will offer basic techniques and guide you on making one-of-a-kind wall hangings.
While Guttman notes the many benefits of engaging in fibre arts, she cautions they do have a learning curve and require dedication.
“It’s not like you’re going to pick up a hook and start crocheting,” she says. “I promise you that, if you come to my class and you do the homework, by the end of week two you will know how to crochet — but you have to work at it. Once you get the muscle memory, that’s when you get all the benefits.”
Needles in the Hay is open at 385 Water Street in downtown Peterborough from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information about upcoming classes, visit needlesinthehay.ca/collections/classes or call 705-740-0667.
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