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Naturally flavoured water is a healthy alternative for kids

By GreenUP -
A group of summer campers at GreenUP Ecology Park raise their cups as they enjoy flavoured water they made with sumac berries, lemon, and the added sweetness of honey from the GreenUP Ecology Park bees. Naturally flavoured water is a healthy alternative to sodas and juices containing high levels of sugar and fructose.

The next time you reach for your favourite thirst-quenching lemonade or soda, take a peek at the nutritional label and see how much sugar has been added. Many popular brands of pop and juice contain upwards of 40 grams of sugar per serving!

Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Karen Halley, GreenUP Communications & Marketing Specialist.

Beverages that are sweetened with sugar are the largest source of sugar in most kids’ diets. Sweetened drinks are actually marketed towards children and parents and are readily available at most concession stands, pop machines, and on the grocery store shelves. This is contributing to childhood obesity and unhealthy body weight in kids.

Tap water, a much healthier option, is a readily available alternative. It helps to keep kids’ bodies hydrated and healthy and also reduces the waste associated with packaging of single servings of juices, pop, and bottled water.

Unfortunately, healthy flavoured alternatives to water or juice are not widely available — but making your own is a fun way to enhance tap water and it can be done with plants from your own backyard!

Naturally flavoured water can be made with many local plants that can be dried and stored: Rose, Lavender, Mint, Red Clover, and Plantain are commonly found in gardens and may already be growing in your own backyard.
Naturally flavoured water can be made with many local plants that can be dried and stored: Rose, Lavender, Mint, Red Clover, and Plantain are commonly found in gardens and may already be growing in your own backyard.
Thanks to generous funding from the Heathy Kids Community Challenge Peterborough, attendees of the GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night were treated to a pot of wild Bergamot to take home and plant to later harvest to make homemade flavoured water.
Thanks to generous funding from the Heathy Kids Community Challenge Peterborough, attendees of the GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night were treated to a pot of wild Bergamot to take home and plant to later harvest to make homemade flavoured water.

The Peterborough region has seen a great in increase in the number of community gardens. Schools are also incorporating gardening into learning outside the classroom walls. Consequently, kids in this region are gaining interest in gardening, hands-on skills with tools, and the ability to identify plants.

With this type of enthusiasm in our community for growing our own food, there is an opportunity to get kids involved with planting, growing, and tending to their favourite plants for flavouring water — and some of these plants may already be growing in your yard.

Naturally flavoured water can be made with local plants such as Rose, Lavender, Mint, Red Clover, and Plantain. Leaves, flowers, roots, and other parts of certain plants can be harvested, dried, and tied into cheesecloth with string to make homemade bags. The bags can be then be used to infuse water that can be consumed as a warm tea or a cold, refreshing thirst quencher.

Marianne Beacon from Elderberry Herbals helps an attendee of GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night assemble a bag from dried Hibiscus, Rose hips, and Red Clover tied in cheesecloth in order to make naturally flavoured water. Healthy Kids Community Challenge Peterborough has provided funding to help families and kids to make healthier, unsweetened choices when selecting beverages to hydrate.
Marianne Beacon from Elderberry Herbals helps an attendee of GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night assemble a bag from dried Hibiscus, Rose hips, and Red Clover tied in cheesecloth in order to make naturally flavoured water. Healthy Kids Community Challenge Peterborough has provided funding to help families and kids to make healthier, unsweetened choices when selecting beverages to hydrate.
Children enjoy their homemade flavoured water at GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night; kids really enjoy the fruity flavours of Rosehips and Hibiscus flowers and will also benefit from the health benefits of vitamin C that come along with it.
Children enjoy their homemade flavoured water at GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night; kids really enjoy the fruity flavours of Rosehips and Hibiscus flowers and will also benefit from the health benefits of vitamin C that come along with it.

Marianne Beacon of Elderberry Herbals suggests, “Kids really enjoy the fruity flavours of Rosehips and Hibiscus flowers and will also benefit from the health benefits of vitamin C that come along with it.”

She also recommends starting early with children when they are young, so they can learn to experiment with their favourite flavours and become accustomed to making blends they enjoy most.

Recently, Marianne presented at GreenUP Ecology Park as part of the Nature Nocturnes evening programs with Healthy Kids Community Challenge Peterborough. Children had the opportunity to participate in making infused water from various local plants, which encourages the benefits of improved healthy behaviours experienced when kids choose delicious and healthy food options.

A young camper at GreenUP Ecology Park enjoys homemade sumac-flavoured water which is naturally sweet and high in vitamin C.
A young camper at GreenUP Ecology Park enjoys homemade sumac-flavoured water which is naturally sweet and high in vitamin C.
An attendee of GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night enjoys "Flower Power" flavoured water made from Rose petals, Roseships, Hibiscus and Red Clover.
An attendee of GreenUP Ecology Park Family Night enjoys “Flower Power” flavoured water made from Rose petals, Roseships, Hibiscus and Red Clover.

Marianne demonstrated how to make infused water for kids and families.

“When using leaves, harvest them before the flower blooms, and when using flowers, pick them when they are freshest.”

Plant parts can be hung or laid flat to dry with lots of room between stems and leaves for air to circulate. Once dried, store them in a cool, dry location such as a glass jar or paper bag.

Of course, it is also important to ensure you have correctly identified the plant you want to harvest — so that you know it is safe to consume and that it is not endangered. Native species such as Wild Ginseng, Goldenseal, and Lady Slipper are rare and struggling in their native ranges and must be left alone.

GreenUP Educator Danica Jarvis explains the benefits of using backyard plants to make flavoured water including Bee Balm, shown here growing in the GreenUP Ecology Park Food Forest, which is also a great pollinator plant.
GreenUP Educator Danica Jarvis explains the benefits of using backyard plants to make flavoured water including Bee Balm, shown here growing in the GreenUP Ecology Park Food Forest, which is also a great pollinator plant.
Children in GreenUP Ecology Park Earth Adventures summer camp investigate a wild raspberry patch to enjoy the delicious benefits of wild edibles; with the rise in community and school yard gardens in this region, kids are gaining interest in gardening, hands-on skills, and the ability to identify plants.
Children in GreenUP Ecology Park Earth Adventures summer camp investigate a wild raspberry patch to enjoy the delicious benefits of wild edibles; with the rise in community and school yard gardens in this region, kids are gaining interest in gardening, hands-on skills, and the ability to identify plants.

Infusing your tap water with homegrown herbs and flowers is a great way to hydrate, stay healthy, and enjoy your garden in a new way.

For opportunities to learn more about making homemade and homegrown infused water, watch the GreenUP online calendar and the workshops page at www.greenup.on.ca or visit herbalist Marianne Beacon’s website at www.elderberryherbals.ca.

To learn more about Healthy Kids Community Challenge Peterborough, visit www.sustainablepeterborough.ca.

All photos by Karen Halley of GreenUP.

VentureNorth to establish innovative business hub in downtown Peterborough

By kawarthaNOW -
Concept design for VentureNorth, a new business hub in the former Promenade Building at the corner of King and George Streets in downtown Peterborough (graphic courtesy of VentureNorth)

Four local entrepreneurs have come together to transform the former Promenade Building at King and George Street in downtown Peterborough into a new business hub called VentureNorth.

Paul Bennett (president of Ashburhnam Realty), Mike D’Alessandro (co-founder of Park Place Financial and Farmlife), Robert Gauvreau (president of Gauvreau & Associates CPA), and Cameron Taylor (CEO of OUTDOORsmart! and BOATsmart!) have partnered to transform the building, located at the corner of King and George Streets in downtown Peterborough.

The team is also working with public partners on the initiative, which so far include Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster, Peterborough Economic Development, Start-Up Peterborough, and Junior Achievement.

The Innovation Cluster is already setting up a secondary location on the third floor in the building at 270 George Street. Selected Innovation Cluster clients were invited into the space — known as The Cube — during renovations to continue working on their companies.

“I have accomplished more in my business in the past two weeks than I have in the past several months,” says Rick Dolishny, founder of BlushDrop and Bears’ Lair 2016 winner, who is using The Cube.

The Innovation Cluster’s new space will include a new 10,000-square-foot incubator, which has capacity to hold 40 to 50 client companies and will feature office space, two smaller meeting rooms, open common areas, shared kitchen space, a large boardroom and a copy and print area.

“We are excited to get start-ups out of their basement and sharing ideas,” says Michael Skinner, President & CEO of the Innovation Cluster. “Peterborough is primed to become an entrepreneurial hub and the Innovation Cluster is excited to be a part of it.”

Skinner was an original co-founder of the initiative, but left the partnership after being selected as President and CEO of the Innovation Cluster.

The Innovation Cluster will continue to maintain its presence at Trent University with the current 1,000-square-foot incubator located in the DNA Building. The original incubator will specialize in supporting young entrepreneurs, cleantech, ag-tech and healthcare solutions.

Peterborough Economic Development plans to consolidate two locations at the VentureNorth hub: the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Visitor Centre located at 1400 Crawford Drive and the Peterborough Economic Development office at 210 Wolfe Street, which includes the Business Advisory Centre.

“We recognize the cost savings and operational benefits of streamlining services under one roof,” said Rhonda Keenan, president & CEO of Peterborough Economic Development. “There is also a substantial benefit to having our entire team of experts in one location. We will continue to provide excellent business development, advice and support services, destination marketing services and visitor services at this new location.”

The new location will allow Peterborough Economic Development to work more closely with community partners and offers a more convenient location for entrepreneurs in the downtown core. Peterborough Economic Development expects to open the doors at the new location in early 2017.

The 38,000-square-foot former Promenade Building in downtown Peterborough will be transformed into the VentureNorth business hub (photo: Google Maps)
The 38,000-square-foot former Promenade Building in downtown Peterborough will be transformed into the VentureNorth business hub (photo: Google Maps)

VentureNorth plans to transform all 38,000 square feet of the building at 270 George St. N. into a business hub that brings entrepreneurs, start-ups, public partners, innovation economy businesses, and risk capital providers together under one roof. The idea is to create an ecosystem where business people can connect and work alongside each other, with an added benefit of attracting businesses to locate in Peterborough.

“The VentureNorth initiative is an exciting example of private-sector investment,” says Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett. “It will stimulate economic activity, benefiting their own businesses by lifting up other businesses and in the process nurturing the health of our overall community.”

Over the next six months, $1 million will be used to redevelop the building at 270 George St North. The team has partnered with local firm Lett Architects for the design of a contemporary revitalized space. Kawartha Credit Union is assisting with financing.

The four entrepreneurs leading the initiative have already invested more than $2 million in capital to launch VentureNorth. The team has committed to reinvesting all net operating surpluses generated from leases at VentureNorth into start-ups, financial support for public partners, and the funding of entrepreneur mentorship programs.

This fall, VentureNorth will focus on bringing start-ups and public partners like Peterborough Economic Development into the location.

“Peterborough Economic Development is pleased to relocate to this collaborative ecosystem that will support the growth of the business community in the region,” says Rhonda Keenan, president and CEO of Peterborough Economic Development. “From this location we will continue to provide service to entrepreneurs, businesses, and visitors in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.”

The team is also seeking corporate partners to support the development of the project. Those interested in sponsorship and partnership with VentureNorth should contact Cameron Taylor at cam@venturenorth.co.

The original version of this story has been updated to include new information provided by the Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster and Peterborough Economic Development.

musicNOW – September 2016

By Josh Fewings -
Acclaimed Scottish folk music band Breabach opens Folk Under the Clock's 30th anniversary season at the Market Hall in Peterborough on September 23

September has some great music coming to Peterborough and the area. Lots of shows to go out and see and festival season isn’t even over yet. September has two great festivals happening. Get out there and check out some great tunes!

Shelter Valley Folk Festival in Vernonville from September 2 to 4

Shelter Valley Folk Festival is the last summer fest before we head into the unofficial beginning of the fall season. The festival takes place on Labour Day weekend (September 2nd to 4th) on the Henkel Family Lavender Farm near Vernonville, Ontario.

Shelter Valley has a great lineup of folk, roots, and music that goes a little beyond those genres. Acts include Jenn Grant, Scott Cook, Lennie Gallant, Irish Mythen. and more.

For more information, check out www.sheltervalley.com.

“I’ve Got Your Fire” – Jenn Grant

 

Nhapitapi at the Arlington Hotel in Maynooth on September 3

Check out a six-piece ensemble of Zimbabwean musicians at The Arlington Hotel (32990 Highway 62, Maynooth, 613-338-2080) on Saturday, September 3rd at 9 p.m.

The group is called Nhapitapi. Their music weaves ancestral rhythms and melodies with contemporary African music.

Tickets are $15 at the door.

“Pangu Pangu” – Nhapitapi

 

High and Lonesome at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene on September 4

Rice Lake’s beautiful Elmhirst’s Resort (1045 Settlers Line, Keene, 705-295-4591 or 800-461-1940) has been hosting music for over a year now.

Their second summer of music will close out with a matinee performance on Sunday, September 4th by High and Lonesome, featuring the great Bobby Watson and Kate Kelly.

The duo present a unique melding of music, poetry and song in their show. Completely free and all ages, the show will be on the beautiful boardwalk on Rice Lake and begins at 3 p.m.

“Grass in the Cracks/For What It’s Worth” – High and Lonesome

 

The Jellyman’s Daughter at Catalina’s in Peterborough on September 7

Scottish eclectic acoustic duo The Jellyman’s Daughter will play at Catalina’s (131 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-5972) on Wednesday, September 7th.

With cello, guitar and great vocal work, Emily Kelly and Graham Coe bring influences from bluegrass to post-rock to the stage. Stirring vocal harmonies and layered instrumentation bring unique aspects of The Jellyman’s Daughter to the forefront.

Ticket are $5 and available at the door, and doors open at 8 p.m. The duo are also playing at Shelter Valley Folk Festival at the beginning of the month.

“All That’s Been” – The Jellyman’s Daughter

 

East Coast Love Story at The Garnet in Peterborough on September 9

Having toured Canada so often, it’s truly a great feeling when friends from a city I have played in a dozen times finally make it to MY town. On Friday, September 9th, The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) will host Moncton’s up-and-coming alt-country/rock band East Coast Love Story.

These guys have been working hard for years to get on the road and this is their first big tour. I can’t say enough about this band.

The show will begin around 10 p.m. and will feature opener Lee Dodington, along with Richie Young.

“Cold Cold World” – East Coast Love Story

 

All-Canadian Jazz Festival in Port Hope from September 9 to 11

Port Hope is hosting a couple music festivals in September and one of them is the All-Canadian Jazz Festival, taking place September 9th, 10th and 11th in Port Hope’s Memorial Park.

Musicians performing include legendary pianist Oliver Jones (his next-to-last stop on his farewell tour), John MacLeod & the Rex Hotel Orchestra, Amanda Martinez, Dione Taylor, Brass Transit, “Coltrane! Kirk MacDonald & Pat LaBarbera”, Tia Brazda, Marianne Trudel Quartet with Kevin Turcotte, The Jive Bombers, Red Hot Ramble, The Quickshifters, and Chelsey Bennett.

There’ll also be food, wine, and beer available. Friday night’s entertainment featuring Chicago tribute band Brass Transit with local band The Quickshifters is free, and it’s $30 to see four acts on Saturday and Sunday afternoon ($10 for youth and free for kids under 12). A weekend pass is $100.

For more details and tickets, head to www.allcanadianjazz.ca.

Oliver Jones performing with Oscar Peterson

 

Grier Coppins at Catalina’s in Peterborough on September 10

Peterborough favourite Grier Coppins will be returning to town to play a matinee at Catalina’s (131 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-5972) on Saturday, September 10th at 3 p.m.

This time he brings a different project into town as The Urban Highlanders make their debut here. There are still bagpipes, but now also with some percussion brining some other beats and a slightly African feel to Coppin’s music.

Tickets are available at the door. Get a fancy cocktail, peruse the beautiful vintage things at Catalina’s, and check out the music.

“Kidogo” – The Urban Highlanders with Grier Coppins

 

Mayhemingways at The Pig’s Ear in Peterborough on September 17

Time to shamelessly plug my band. Mayhemingways will be playing at The Pig’s Ear Tavern (144 Brock St., Peterborough, 705-745-7255) on Saturday, September 17th.

Come usher in another collegial year with Trent students. Peanut races, trays of beer, great service, and music at one of the city’s great old-school bars.

Admission is $5 and the show begins at 10 p.m.

“Finnish Polka/Salmontails Up the Water” – Mayhemingways

 

David Simard at the Market Hall in Peterborough on September 18

There was a time when you could see David Simard play at The Spill in Peterborough any given week. Born in B.C. but a Peterborough resident for several years, especially during high school, Simard honed parts of his craft as a student at PCVS and in some downtown venues.

On Sunday, September 18th he will be bringing a full band to play at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146). He will also have a brand new album in hand: The Heavy Wait is his sophomore release. Filled with quiet intensity and a range of emotions, both musical and lyrical, Simard’s talent as a musician and songwriter will be on full display.

Opening the show will be local great Tiny Davis, a founding member of The Silver Hearts.

The general admission show begins at 7 p.m. and costs $18 including fees. Tickets are available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Tickets are also available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

“I’m Bad” – David Simard

 

Breabach at the Market Hall in Peterborough on September 23

What a milestone! Peterborough’s great Folk Under the Clock series, run by MIke and Sonja Barker, has reached its 30th anniversary. How else would they celebrate other than with a great concert featuring world class music?

On Friday, September 23rd at 8 p.m. head to Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) to check out Scottish group Breabach.

The group has garnered international attention as one of the UK’s “most dynamic and exciting bands.” Traditional instruments merge with a high-energy performance. This should be a great show and a great celebration of Folk Under the Clock.

Tickets are $37.50 plus fees and are available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Tickets for Row C and Tables 8 & 9 are also available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

“Scotland’s Winter/Farley Bridge” – Breabach

 

Corb Lund, Basia Bula, Good Lovelies and more at Cultivate in Port Hope from September 23 to 25

What goes better with music than food and drink? Not a whole lot. Cultivate in Port Hope is the best combination of those three things in September.

The festival runs from September 23rd to 25th and features a huge lineup of great bands including: Corb Lund, Donovan Woods, Melissa Payne and more on Friday, and Basia Bulat, Wooden Sky, Union Duke, Mayhemingways and more on Saturday. Sunday features another great lineup with Good Lovelies, Catherine MacLellan, Justin Rutledge, and more.

You can still get a weekend pass for $70. Tickets for Friday and Sunday are $30, while tickets for Saturday are $40. Kids under 12 get in for free. Check out www.cultivatefestival.ca for more details.

“Washed-Up Rock Star Factory Blues” – Corb Lund

 

Porchapalooza in Peterborough’s East City on September 25

Porchapalooza, where neighbourhood porches in Peterborough are transformed into live music stages, is back for another year on Sunday, September 25 from 3 to 7:30 p.m.

Presented by Artsweek, this year’s event takes place in the neighborhood square block of Hunter, Mark, Douro, and Rogers Streets in Peterborough’s East City.

Musicians will play 25-minute sets on different porches, with “tours” at 3 p.m., 4 p.m., and 5 p.m.

Here’s this year’s line-up, curated by Washboard Hank and Sweet Muriel:

  • Hannamars Bridal and Rick Fines (blues) at 406 Mark St.
  • Evangeline Gentle (alt folk) at 442 Mark St.
  • Paul Clark White (classical) at 498 Mark St.
  • High & Lonesome (Bobby Watson & Kate Kelly, roots soul) at 496 Rogers St.
  • Pays d’en Haut (cajun) at 459 Rogers St.
  • The 3 Martinis (comedy song) at Ashburnham Ale House (128 Hunter St. E.).

 

Keith Hallett and Emily Burgess at The Garnet in Peterborough on September 27

A wicked double bill will be filling The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Tuesday, September 27th at 10 p.m.

The show will feature East Coast blues/rocker Keith Hallett. Hallett is an acclaimed artist who relentless takes his high energy show across Canada. Hot guitar licks and powerful vocals are a trademark of his show.

Speaking of hot guitar licks, The Weber Brothers band member Emily Burgess is also playing that evening.

Tickets are available at the door. It doesn’t get any better than this on a Tuesday night!

“Cattle Call” – Keith Hallett

 

Bernie Martin tribute featuring Jay Swinnerton and Benj Rowland at The Garnet in Peterborough on September 29

For those who don’t know, the late great Bernie Martin was a true artist. Songs sketched out, framed, and even in their imperfection felt whole. Jay Swinnerton and Benj Rowland will play some of his music as the kickoff for a weekend-long tribute to Bernie Martin in Peterborough.

The show is Thursday, September 29th at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107). The evening is entitled “Weekend at Bernie’s” and culminates with a few other events.

Tickets are available at the door and the show begins around 9 p.m.

“Some Things Never Seem To Change” by Bernie Martin performed by Phillip (Pip) Kummel

The Business Beat for August 29, 2016

By Stu Harrison -
Amanada Menard is owner of Amandala's, a new restaurant in downtown Peterborough (photo: amandalas.ca)

Amandala’s restaurant opens in downtown Peterborough

Amandala’s is a new restaurant in downtown Peterborough.

Owner Amanada Menard describes it as a quaint 34-seat restaurant with exposed brick and a patio. Chef Simon Brown specializes in fresh, local ingredients prepared from scratch.

Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, Amandala’s is located at 376 Water Street next to the Bank of Montreal.

Call 705-749-9090, visit www.amandalas.ca or find them on Facebook.

Peterborough Community Savings gets a facelift

Peterborough Community Savings has a fresh new look (photo: Peterborough Community Savings / Facebook)
Peterborough Community Savings has a fresh new look (photo: Peterborough Community Savings / Facebook)

Peterborough Community Savings recently gave their Brock Street building a facelift.

President Beth Bruesch says it’s the first update since the building was built in 1969, and they are pleased with the fresh new look while keeping the local Lift Lock theme.

For more information, visit www.peterboroughcs.ca.

Bancroft Chamber gets an EV charging station

A Level Two electric vehicle charging station, donated by Luke and Margo Lee Burton of Peterborough, was recently installed at the Bancroft Train Station (photo: Bancroft and District Chamber of Commerce / Facebook)
A Level Two electric vehicle charging station, donated by Luke and Margo Lee Burton of Peterborough, was recently installed at the Bancroft Train Station (photo: Bancroft and District Chamber of Commerce / Facebook)

The Bancroft and District Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the installation of its own electric vehicle charging station.

The Level Two charging station was donated by Luke and Margo Lee Burton of Peterborough, with support from local Bancroft businesses including Mr. Stone Landscaping, Boyer GM, Vance Motors, RE/MAX, Penn & McGuire Electric, McDougall Insurance, and State Farm Insurance.

Congratulations to Bancroft Chamber Manager Greg Webb.

For more information, visit www.bancroftdistrict.com.

Nominations on now for Kawartha Chamber Business Awards of Excellence

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is accepting nominations for the 17th Annual Business Awards of Excellence (graphic: Kawartha Chamber)
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is accepting nominations for the 17th Annual Business Awards of Excellence (graphic: Kawartha Chamber)

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is accepting nominations for the 17th Annual Business Awards of Excellence.

The deadline is Monday, September 12th. Nominations are not limited to Chamber members; any business, organization or individual in the County of Peterborough can be nominated.

Nominations can be submitted at www.kawarthachamber.ca/nominations.

Peterborough Chamber Love Local Business Expo and Excellence Awards dinner

The Peterborough Chamber's annual Excellence Awards dinner takes place on October 19, 2016 (graphic: Peterborough Chamber)
The Peterborough Chamber’s annual Excellence Awards dinner takes place on October 19, 2016 (graphic: Peterborough Chamber)

The Peterborough Chamber has two big events on the horizon: the annual Love Local Business Expo on September 7th at the Morrow Building, and the annual Excellence Awards dinner on October 19th.

Details at www.peterboroughchamber.ca.

Farm livin’ is the life for me – a review of Funny Farmers

By Sam Tweedle -
James Barrett, Kelly Holiff, Connor Thompson, and Sarah Quick star in Funny Farmers. Globus Theatre's final production of the summer season runs at the Lakeview Arts Barn in Bobcaygeon until September 3. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

Globus Theatre is bringing its summer season to an end with Funny Farmers by Kevin Riordan. Directed by Sarah Quick, Funny Farmers is a charming spoof on rural life and the modern farming industry that will appeal to anyone who has ever lived or worked on a farm, as well as city slickers who’ve never stepped on one.

Written by Canadian playwright Kevin Riordan, Funny Farmers is a relatively new production that’s only been performed a handful of times.

James Barrett plays Gary, a failed NHL goalie who decided to take on the task of running his family farm. However, due to a number of unfortunate incidents, Gary has lost the farm and is working at Wal-Mart. Now living next door to the farm that his family owned for generations, Gary watches in horror as Jerry (Connor Thompson) — an American lawyer with no farming experience — purchases the property with ideas of becoming an organic farmer.

As Jerry suffers one disaster after another, Gary eventually takes pity on the wannabe farmer and steps in to assist in pulling the farm out of ruin.

Can one failed farmer and a man who has no idea what he is doing create a farming empire?

It takes some big ideas and a lot of heart to make it work. From goats with chlamydia to an unwanted marijuana crop, Gary and Jerry become a mismatched odd couple trying to beat the odds in this good-natured comedy of hard work and rural living.

Local boy Gary (James Barrett) has lost the family farm to American city slicker Jerry (Connor Thompson) who has no idea what he's doing (photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
Local boy Gary (James Barrett) has lost the family farm to American city slicker Jerry (Connor Thompson) who has no idea what he’s doing (photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

Now I can’t help but go into a comedy with a bit of cynicism when it has the word “funny” in the title — just how funny will the show actually be? In the case of Funny Farmers, the show lives up to its name. It’s a screwball comedy that stays smart and likeable without becoming too silly or slapstick.

Although some of the situations are outrageous, such as Gary and Jerry’s trip to Toronto in the second act, the show is a character-driven piece that never takes itself very seriously. The result is lots of laughs in a light-hearted comedy.

The success of the show lies in the juxtaposition of the relationship between the two lead characters: two men who at first seem to have nothing in common. Gary is filled with resentment over this city lawyer who is ruining the family farm, which is only inflamed as Jerry hilariously continues to say and do all the wrong things in an attempt to bond with his surly neighbour.

The rivalry turns into a friendship and finally a partnership, as the two men find common ground in their attempt to keep the farm alive. A tale of two underdogs trying to be successful, the audience can’t help but root for Gary and Jerry to keep the farm alive.

There is no doubt that the audience loves James Barrett as Gary. As the narrator of the show, just his presence alone in the opening scenes creates a warm and inviting energy. Often cast in roles where he plays sensitive characters, James goes against type in the role of Gary.

Far more stoic and rough around the edges than the characters that James usually plays, Gary has a good sense of humour when addressing the audience, but comes off much tougher and removed when interacting with the characters in the show. However, James brings natural warmth to any character he plays, and smoothly guides the audience into the world of Ontario farming.

Connor Thompson brings a nervous energy to the role of Jerry. With high but unrealistic ideals, Jerry comes into farming with no clue of what he’s doing and sees idea after idea fail. Interestingly, while Jerry is supposed to be the more sophisticated of the pair, he becomes the comic relief while Gary is the straight man. More comedy is created by the fact that Gary is an American living in rural Ontario.

Jerry becomes the ultimate outsider who’s in over his head while trying to make the best of a losing battle. From resisting his desire for venison beef jerky when he decides to go vegetarian to developing relationships with all of his animals, Jerry is a loveable fool stuck in a misguided dream.

Globus Theatre presents
Funny Farmers

When: Wednesday, August 25 – Saturday, August 27, 2016 at 8 p.m.; Tuesday, August 30 – Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, August 27 and Thursday, September 1, 2016 at 2 p.m.
Where: Lakeview Arts Barn (2300 Pigeon Lake Road, Bobcaygeon)
How much: $30.50 adults, $20 students (theatre only); $63.50 adults, $50 students (dinner and theatre)

Written by Kevin Riordan, directed by Sarah Quick, and starring James Barrett as Gary, Connor Thompson as Jerry, Kelly Holiff as Melissa, and Sarah Quick as Deanna.

A 3-course table d’hôte menu is available at 6 p.m. prior to every evening performance (reservations required).

For tickets, visit the box office at Lakeview Arts Barn or call 705-738-2037.

Sarah Quick (James’ real-life spouse) also appears in the show as Gary’s wife Deanna. Known for her terrible cooking, Deanna has a lot to worry about when it comes to Gary. Although supportive of him after he loses the farm, she worries about his happiness, as well as where he goes at night when he skips dinner.

Kelly Holiff co-stars as Jerry’s suffering wife Melissa. After only six months of marriage, Jerry brings his wife to the farm — but neglects to tell her he has shut off the power, water, heat, phone services, and internet in an attempt to go back to a simpler way of life.

A strong woman with more common sense than her husband, Melissa wants to skin her idiot husband alive, but quickly falls in love with the community in her role of county doctor.

Meanwhile, in an attempt to escape his wife’s cooking, Gary strikes up an unlikely friendship with Melissa after she secretly begins to feed him — in return for the secret chores Gary does in the night to undo Jerry’s farming mistakes.

Ultimately, Funny Farmers is a show about two underdogs who come together to beat the odds. It’s a perfect way to end what has been a wonderful theatrical season for Globus Theatre at the Lakeview Arts Barn.

I’ve had a wonderful time driving out to Bobcaygeon every three weeks this summer to visit such a warm and beautiful space, to see old friends, to make new ones, and be around good people. If you’ve yet to visit the Lakeview Arts Barn this summer, Funny Farmers is a perfect reason to do so.

Funny Farmers is on now until September 3rd at the Lakeview Arts Barn in Bobcayeon. The show starts at 8 p.m., with two matinees at 2 p.m. on August 27 and September 1. Dinner is available by reservation before evening performances at 6 p.m. For more information and tickets, call the Globus box office at 705-738-2037 or visit www.lakeviewartsbarn.com

The Beach Report: which beaches are open & closed in The Kawarthas

By kawarthaNOW -
A view of Victoria Beach on Lake Ontario in Cobourg. (Photo courtesy of Linda McIlwain)

Here the results of water quality testing at beaches in Peterborough, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, and Northumberland County.

Peterborough City/County
City of Kawartha Lakes
Haliburton County
Northumberland County

As of the date of this story, the following beaches have been posted as unsafe for swimming:

  • Beavermead (2011 Ashburnham Drive, Peterborough)
  • Norwood (12 Belmont St, Norwood)
  • Roger’s Cove (131 Maria St, Peterborough)
  • Coboconk Lions Park Beach (Bexley Township Area)
  • Riverview Beach Park (Bobcaygeon Area)
  • Bond Street (Fenelon Falls Area)
  • Elliott Falls Beach (Laxton Township Area)
  • Centennial Beach (Verulam Township Area)
  • Hastings North (Campbellford Area)
  • Hastings South (Campbellford Area)
  • Bewdley Beach (Port Hope/Cobourg Area)

In the City of Peterborough, Peterborough Public Health Inspectors sample the beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead every business day, and public beaches in the County of Peterborough are sampled at least once a week (except for Chandos Beach, Quarry Bay Beach, and White’s Beach which are sampled at least once in June, July, and August).

The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit provides weekly testing results for beaches in the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, and Northumberland County. Testing is based on the most recent test results from the provincial lab in Peterborough for water samples taken from these beaches.

Peterborough Public Health samples the water quality of popular city beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead every business day during the summer. The health unit will post signage if a beach is unsafe for swimming, such as this sign at Rogers Cove earlier this summer. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Peterborough Public Health samples the water quality of popular city beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead every business day during the summer. The health unit will post signage if a beach is unsafe for swimming, such as this sign at Rogers Cove earlier this summer. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)

Important note

The following test results may not reflect current water quality conditions. Water samples can take one to three days to process and heavy rainfall, high winds or wave activity, large numbers of waterfowl near a beach, or large numbers of swimmers can rapidly change water quality.

You should always check current conditions before deciding to use a beach. You should also monitor other factors that might suggest a beach is unsafe to use, such as floating debris, oil, discoloured water, bad odours, and excessive weed growth.

Also, you should confirm the most current test results by visiting the local health unit websites at Peterborough Public Health and Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit. As noted above, the beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead are tested every business day so the results listed below may not be current.

Peterborough City/County

Beavermead – UNSAFE

Belmont Lake – SAFE

Buckhorn – SAFE

Chandos – SAFE

Crowe’s Line – SAFE

Curve Lake Henrys Gumming – SAFE

Curve Lake Lance Wood Park – SAFE

Douro – SAFE

Ennismore – SAFE

Hiawatha – SAFE

Jones Beach – SAFE

Kasshabog Lake – SAFE

Lakefield – SAFE

Norwood – UNSAFE

Quarry Bay – SAFE

Roger’s Cove – UNSAFE

Sandy Beach – SAFE

Selwyn – SAFE

Squirrel Creek – SAFE

Warsaw Caves – SAFE

White’s Beach – SAFE

City of Kawartha Lakes

Bexley Township Area

Blanchard’s Road Beach – OPEN

Coboconk Lions Park Beach  – POSTED

Bobcaygeon Area

Beach Park – OPEN

Riverview Beach Park  – POSTED

Carden Township Area

Carden Township Beach – Not tested

Foxe’s Beach – Not tested

Dalton Township Area

Dalton Township Beach – Not tested

Eldon Township Area

Centennial Park West  – OPEN

Emily/Omemee Area

Omemee Beach – OPEN

Fenelon Falls Area

Birch Point – OPEN

Bond Street – POSTED

Killarney Bay – OPEN

Sturgeon Point Beach – OPEN

Laxton Township Area

Elliott Falls Beach – POSTED

Head Lake – OPEN

Norland Bathing Area – OPEN

Mariposa Township Area

Valentia Beach (aka Sandbar Beach) – OPEN

Somerville Township Area

Burnt River Beach – Somerville – OPEN

Burnt River Four Mile Lake  – OPEN

Verulam Township Area

Centennial Beach  – POSTED

Verulam Recreational Park – OPEN

Haliburton County

Algonquin Highlands Area

Dorset Parkette – OPEN

Elvin Johnson Park (aka Stanhope Beach) – OPEN

Dysart et al Area

Eagle Lake Beach – OPEN

Haliburton Lake South Bay – OPEN

Sand Point (aka Indian Point) – OPEN

Pine Lake Beach – OPEN

Sandy Cove Beach – OPEN

Silver Lake (aka Kashawigamog Lake) – OPEN

Highlands East Area

Gooderham Beach – OPEN

Paudash Lake Beach – OPEN

Lake Wilbermere Beach – OPEN

Glamour Lake Beach –  OPEN

Minden Hills Area

Bissett Beach – OPEN

Little Horseshoe Lake Beach – OPEN

Minden Rotary Lagoon Beach –  OPEN

Minden Rotary Main Beach – OPEN

Twelve Mile Lake Beach – OPEN

Northumberland County

Brighton Area

Cedardale – OPEN

Little Lake – OPEN

Campbellford Area

Crowe Bay Fun Park – OPEN

Hastings North – POSTED

Hastings South – POSTED

Seymour Conservation Area – OPEN

Port Hope/Cobourg Area

Bewdley Beach – POSTED

Harwood Beach – OPEN

Port Hope Beach East – OPEN

Port Hope Beach West – OPEN

Sandy Bay Park – OPEN

Victoria Beach (Cobourg) – OPEN

Wicklow Beach  – OPEN

Famous wildlife artist Robert Bateman is selling his Haliburton cottage

By kawarthaNOW -
Robert Bateman is acclaimed as a wildlife artist and a naturalist. Among many other honours, Bateman is an officer of the Order of Canada and was named one of the top 100 environmental proponents of the 20th century by the Audubon Society of Canada. (Photo: Acadia University)

Renowned Canadian wildlife painter and naturalist Robert Bateman is selling the Haliburton cottage that he and his wife Birgit have owned for more than 30 years.

The 2,100-square-foot log cabin, which Bateman calls “The Lodge”, is located on 6.4 acres near the Buckslide River in Haliburton.

Surrounded by wilderness and waterfalls, the cabin has four bedrooms on the main floor and a Rumford-designed granite stone fireplace. It’s listed for $520,000 with Team Haliburton Highlands – RE/MAX North Country Realty Inc. Brokerage.

Photos of Robert Bateman’s cottage

See photos of Bateman’s cottage on the Team Haliburton Highlands – RE/MAX North Country Realty Inc. Brokerage website.

The 86-year-old Bateman is selling the property because he and his wife, who now live in British Columbia, only visit for two weeks every other year.

A Toronto native, Bateman was no stranger to the Haliburton area when he bought the property in 1981.

“Our family came to the south end of Lake Boshkung for July each year of World War II,” he writes in a description of the property on the RE/MAX website. “We rented one of cottages owned by Clayton Rogers at Moorefield Acres.”

“In those years, a highlight ritual was to take a little skiff and our outboard motor to the mouth of Buckslides river which flowed from Lake Kushog. We then carried the makings of a picnic up a trail to the smooth sloping rocks at the bottom of the steepest rapids of Buckslides.”

“We would sometimes play in the river and then cross over to a little side stream that came in to join the main river. A beauty spot was a charming little waterfall on this side stream.”

In 1981, while staying at their family cottage on Boshkung Lake, Bateman decided to do a painting of that same waterfall (“Dipper By The Waterfall”).

“After finishing the waterfall painting, I got up to stretch my legs and noticed a small faint trail leading up stream,” he writes. “Having never explored it, I followed it and came upon a little dam, partly made by beavers and partly man made. It held back a charming pond with cliffs plunging into it.”

“The other side was gentle, sloping and open with a tiny cabin — a shed really. To my shock there was a ‘For Sale’ sign. On an impulse, my wife Bridget and I decided to buy it and the land around it to protect it from commercial development.”

In 1981, Bateman was painting "Dipper By The Waterfall" at Buckslides in Haliburton when he discovered a path that led to the property he and his wife purchased (painting by Robert Bateman)
In 1981, Bateman was painting “Dipper By The Waterfall” at Buckslides in Haliburton when he discovered a path that led to the property he and his wife purchased (painting by Robert Bateman)

In 1983, Bateman had former student Tom Kinn, who was making a career out of building custom-made log houses, construct the cabin. Bateman says Kinn selected each log while it was still a live tree in a forest south of Huntsville. The entire structure is traditional post and beam construction.

Bateman calls the cabin “The Lodge” because of the beaver pond originally located on the property.

In addition to the structure of the cabin itself, two of its unique features are the “Rumsford” fireplace and the unique chandelier that hangs above it.

The fireplace is based on a design by Sir Benjamin Thompson, an American-born British physicist who was a friend of Benjamin Franklin. During the American Revolution, Thompson was on the side of Britain and emigrated there after the British lost, where he was later made “Count Rumford”.

“He designed the perfect fireplace that throws the maximum heat out and draws beautifully,” Bateman says in an interview in Team Haliburton Highlands’ Haliburton real estate newsletter.

As for the chandelier, Bateman designed it himself. While living in Germany in the late 1980s, he visited Europe’s oldest wood building in southern Poland, which featured a chandelier of a similar design.

“I took pictures of it,” Bateman recalls in his newsletter interview. “I wanted to make it electrified plus candles, so I designed this with pottery holders for the candles to point up, and with downward-pointing electric lights on a dimmer. If you’re in the mood, you can lower it to below eye level and use it like a candelabra.”

Although the Bateman family owns another cottage on Boshkung Lake, it’s clear that Robert has mixed feelings about selling “The Lodge.”

“Our place on Buckslides is of all places in my life one of the closest to my heart,” he writes. “This of course is partly because it is full of fond memories. But it is also very special from an objective point of view.”

This past July, Bateman held a three-day workshop at Fleming College’s Haliburton School of Art + Design (it sold out in two days when it was announced back in March). He created a demonstration painting during the workshop that was later auctioned off at an August fundraiser for the school.

Bateman also gave a talk at the school on August 11th which you can watch on Vimeo.

nightlifeNOW – August 25 to 31

By kawarthaNOW -
Folk-rock band Ptarmigan returns home to launch their new self-titled album at The Spill in Peterborough on August 26 (photo: Agatha Rowland)

Every Thursday, we publish live music and performance events at pubs and clubs in Peterborough and The Kawarthas based on information that venues provide to us directly or post on their website or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, August 25 to Wednesday, August 31.

If you’re a pub or club owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, please email our Nightlife Editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com.

7oh5
ARIA
Arlington Pub
Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub
Black Horse Pub
Canoe & Paddle
The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg
Chemong Lodge
The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse
Coach & Horses Pub
Dobro Restaurant & Bar
Dolce Vita Resto
Dominion Hotel
Frank's Pasta and Grill
Gabby's on Hunter
The Garnet
Gordon Best Theatre
Junction Nightclub
Mainstreet Landing Restaurant
Marley's Bar & Grill
McThirsty's Pint
The Mill Restaurant and Pub
Muddy's Pit BBQ
Oasis Bar & Grill
Pastry Peddler
Pattie House Smokin' Barbecue
Pig's Ear Tavern
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
Red Dog Tavern
Riley's Olde Town Pub
Riverside Grill & Gazebo - Holiday Inn
Shots
Southside Pizzeria
Spanky's
The Spill
Sweet Bottoms Coffee
Tank House
The Venue
White House Hotel
Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort

7oh5

295 George St. N, Peterborough
(705) 743-2717

Thursdays

Thursday Night Dance Party

Mondays

Industry Monday Patio Party

Coming Soon

Saturday, September 3
9pm - 21 Gun Salute AC/DC Tribute ($10 advance, $12 at door)

Thursday, September 8
7pm - Pokemon GO Pub Crawl: 70h5, Spanky's, Pig's Ear, Champs, The White House ($20)

ARIA

331 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-0333

Friday, August 26

10pm - Summer Ender Bender

Saturday, August 27

10pm - Summer Ender Bender

Coming Soon

Thursday, September 8
10pm - Frosh Circus ft Frank Walker, live circus performances, animal photobooth, & more (19+, $12.95+)

Arlington Pub

32990 Highway 62, Maynooth
(613) 338-2080

Friday, August 26

8pm - Karaoke

Saturday, August 27

9pm - Jane Bunnett ($20, tickets available at Maynooth General Store)

Coming Soon

Saturday, September 3
9pm - Nhapitapi ($15)

Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub

4 Bridge St., Bancroft
(613) 332-3450

Friday, August 26

9pm - Live music (TBA)

Tuesdays

7:30pm - Trivia Tuesdays

Wednesdays

7pm - Jam Night in the York Room

Black Horse Pub

452 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 742-0633

Thursday, August 25

7:30pm - Jazz & Blues w/ Rob Philips & Marsala Lukianchuk

Friday, August 26

5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Northern Soul

Saturday, August 27

5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Briannah Cotton Band

Sunday, August 28

3pm - Michelle Prins

Monday, August 29

7pm - Hard Time Mondays w/ Rick & Gailie

Tuesday, August 30

7:30pm - Open Mic w/ Randy Hill

Wednesday, August 31

7:30pm - Live music (TBA)

Coming Soon

Thursday, September 1
7:30pm - Jazz & Blueas w/ Rob Philips & Marsala Lukianchuk

Friday, September 2
Live music (TBA)

Saturday, September 3
5-8pm - Tonya Bosch; 8:30pm - Doug Dynasty

Sunday, September 4
3pm -Bluegrass Menagerie

Canoe & Paddle

18 Bridge St., Lakefield
(705) 651-1111

Saturdays

8-11pm - Live music

Sundays (2nd/4th of month)

2-5pm - Live music

Tuesdays

7-10pm - Open jam

The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg

38 Covert St., Cobourg
(905) 377-9029

Fridays

9pm - Live music

Chemong Lodge

764 Hunter St., Bridgenorth
(705) 292-8435

Friday, August 26

7-11pm - Tami J. Wilde

Saturday, August 27

7-11pm - Randy Hill

Coming Soon

Friday, September 2
7-11pm - Waters Edge

Saturday, September 3
7-11pm - Donny Wood Band

The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse

26 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 653-0001

Thursday, August 25

9pm - Alex Leggett w/ Ray on the Radio

Friday, August 26

9pm - Sue & Mike

Saturday, August 27

9pm - Sean Poluk

Mondays

Trivia Monday

Wednesdays

Whiskey Wednesday w/ Ken Tizzard

Coach & Horses Pub

16 York St. S., Lindsay
(705) 328-0006

Thursdays

10pm - Open Jam w/ Gerald Vanhalteren

Wednesdays

7-11pm - Live music

Dobro Restaurant & Bar

287-289 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 775-9645

Thursday, August 25

10pm - Robin Hawkins Band (no cover)

Friday, August 26

10pm - High Waters Band (no cover)

Saturday, August 27

10pm - High Waters Band (no cover)

Wednesdays

Open stage

Dolce Vita Resto

413 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-3339

Thursday, August 25

6:30-8:30pm - Jazz Thursdays ft Pete Woolidge (piano) and Federico Pontani (guitar). Call to make a reservation.

Dominion Hotel

113 Main St., Minden
(705) 286-6954

Saturday, August 27

2pm - Kitchen Party Music Jam (free, musicians and fans welcome); 7:30pm - Movin' On

Tuesdays

Tiki Beach Party w/ live music

Coming Soon

Friday, September 2
8:30pm - Open mic

Saturday, September 3
2pm - Kitchen Party Music Jam (free, musicians and fans welcome)

Frank's Pasta and Grill

426 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-2727

Thursdays

5-8pm - Live music

Fridays

9pm-12am - Karaoke Night

Saturday, August 27

8:30pm - Winging It; 11:30pm - DJ Odeon

Wednesdays

8-11pm - Open Mic

Gabby's on Hunter

211 Hunter St. W, Peterborough
(705) 874-0465

Thursdays

9pm - Open mic

The Garnet

231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-0107

Thursday, August 25

Petunia, The Minimalist Jug Band

Friday, August 26

5-7pm - Gentle Fridays with Evangeline Gentle; 10:30pm - Carolyn Mark and The New Best Friends

Saturday, August 27

Hillsburn

Tuesday, August 30

Jared Lutes

Wednesday, August 31

Improv Jam, Perkolater, Loveland

Gordon Best Theatre

216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 876-8884

Coming Soon

Friday, September 7
7pm - Dear Rouge w/ guests (all ages, $17 in advance at thegordonbest.ca, $20 at door)

Tuesday, October 19
7pm - Peterborough Folk Fest presents Jadea Kelly, Sweet Alibi (all ages, $15, tickets at peterboroughfolkfest.com)

Saturday, November 26
7-11pm - Peterborough Folk Fest presents Andy Shauf w/ Chris Cohen (all ages, $20, tickets at www.peterboroughfolkfest.com)

Junction Nightclub

253 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-0550

Friday, August 26

10pm - Country Night w/ DJ Bill Porter ($5 cover)

Saturdays

10pm - Pure Saturdays

Mainstreet Landing Restaurant

1939 Lakehurst Road, Buckhorn
(705) 657-9094

Saturdays

1-4pm - Live music on the patio

Sundays

1-4pm - Live music on the patio

Marley's Bar & Grill

17 Fire Route 82 Catalina Bay, Buckhorn
(705) 868-2545

Friday, August 26

6:30-9:30pm - Kayla Howran & Dylan Ireland

Saturday, August 27

6:30-9:30pm - Bad Luck Woman

Coming Soon

Friday, September 2
6:30-9:30pm - Sonny & Cloudy (Wylie Harold & Richard Simpkins)

McThirsty's Pint

166 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 743-2220

Thursdays

10pm - Jan Schoute

Fridays

10pm - Brian Haddlesey

Saturdays

10pm - Brian Haddlesey

Mondays

10pm - Trivia Night

Wednesdays

9pm - Cody Watkins

The Mill Restaurant and Pub

990 Ontario St., Cobourg
(905) 377-8177

Thursday, August 25

7pm - Western Avenue

Muddy's Pit BBQ

3247 County Rd. 2, Keene
(705) 295-1255

Sunday, August 28

3pm - Diamond Dave & The Smoke Eaters

Coming Soon

Sunday, September 4
3pm - Mayhemingways

Oasis Bar & Grill

31 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-6634

Thursday, August 25

6:30pm - Wicklow

Sundays

5:30pm - PHLO

Wednesdays

6:30pm - Live music

Pastry Peddler

17 King St., Millbrook
(705) 932-7333

Friday, August 26

5:30pm & 7:45pm - Jazz Dinner Weekend ft Kirk Losell, Michael Monis, John Fautley ($40 per person)

Saturday, August 27

5:30pm & 7:45pm - Jazz Dinner Weekend ft Lenni Stewart, Michael Monis, Howard Baer ($40 per person)

Sunday, August 28

1-4pm - Matthew MacLeod

Pattie House Smokin' Barbecue

6675 Highway 35, Coboconk
(705) 454-8100

Saturday, August 27

8pm - The Do Good Badlies (no cover)

Coming Soon

Saturday, September 3
10pm - The Kents ($10 at door)

Sunday, September 4
9pm - The Third Round

Pig's Ear Tavern

144 Brock St., Peterborough
(705) 745-7255

Thursdays

Trivia Night

Fridays

Pingo

Saturday, August 27

10pm - Live music (TBA)

Mondays

Pool Night

Tuesdays

Open stage (second Tuesday of each month: 5-7:30pm - Family Friendly Open Mic)

Wednesdays

Humpday Karaoinke

Coming Soon

Thursday, September 8
7pm - Pokemon GO Pub Crawl: 70h5, Spanky's, Pig's Ear, Champs, The White House ($20)

Puck' N Pint Sports Pub

871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
(705) 741-1078

Fridays

Live music

Saturdays

9pm - Live music

Tuesdays

Live music

Red Dog Tavern

189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 741-6400

Tuesdays

10pm - Open mic w/ Matt Diamond

Coming Soon

Friday, September 2
Robot Eyes

Saturday, September 3
Silver Creek Folk

Sunday, September 11
Cathartics

Monday, September 12
The Lazys

Thursday, September 22
Michael Bernard Fitzgerald

Friday, September 23
Mokomakai

Saturday, September 24
Dub Trinity

Tuesday, September 27
Electric Six

Riley's Olde Town Pub

257 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 750-1445

Thursdays

Travis Berlinbach

Fridays

Travis Berlinbach

Saturdays

Josh Gontier

Sundays

Josh Gontier

Mondays

Josh Gontier

Tuesdays

Josh Gontier & Cale Gontier

Wednesdays

Guest performers

Riverside Grill & Gazebo - Holiday Inn

150 George St, Peterborough
(705) 743-1144

Friday, August 26

6-10pm - Samantha Martin and Delta Sugar ($10)

Sunday, August 28

2-5pm - Caitlin O'Conner with Rico Browne (no cover)

Coming Soon

Friday, September 2
6-10pm - Jack de Keyzer ($10)

Sunday, September 4
2-5pm - Terry Finn's House of Music & The Rising Stars (no cover)

Shots

379 George Street K9H 3R2, Peterborough
(705) 749-9315

Wednesdays

10pm - DJ Muddler's House Party

Southside Pizzeria

25 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough
(705) 748-6120

Fridays

9am-12pm - Open mic ($2); 8pm - Karaoke

Tuesdays

9am-12pm - Open mic (free); 8pm - Karaoke

Spanky's

201 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-5078

Coming Soon

Thursday, September 8
7pm - Pokemon GO Pub Crawl: 70h5, Spanky's, Pig's Ear, Champs, The White House ($20)

The Spill

414 George St., Peterborough
(705) 748-6167

Thursday, August 25

8pm - Peterborough Poetry Slam and open mic ft David Silverberg

Friday, August 26

9pm - Ptarmigan CD release w/ Nick Procyshyn and The Bad Milk ($10 at the door or $20 with your choice of CD or vinyl)

Saturday, August 27

9pm - Adler-Yarranton

Sunday, August 28

8pm - Century Palm, Faux Cults, Feel Alright, Mixer ($7 or PWYC)

Monday, August 29

9pm - Shirley & The Pyramids, Severed Feathers ($7)

Tuesday, August 30

Fun 'N' Games with Matt Jarvis

Coming Soon

Thursday, September 1
8pm - Frankie McGee's Going Away Poetry Show ($5-10 or PWYC)

Sweet Bottoms Coffee

19 Colborne St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-7506

Coming Soon

Saturday, September 3
Jam Night @ Lock 34

Tank House

295 George St. N, Peterborough
(705) 743-2717

Thursday, August 25

5:30pm - Nathan Jackson

Friday, August 26

5:30pm - The Cadillacs

Saturday, August 27

3pm - Tami J. Wilde

Sunday, August 28

3pm - 50-60s Band; 8pm - Open mic

Tuesday, August 30

5:30pm - Cale Crowe

The Venue

286 George Street North, Peterborough
(705) 876-0008

Coming Soon

Saturday, September 24
8pm - Honeymoon Suite (tickets available September 10, 2016)

White House Hotel

173 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 741-2444

Coming Soon

Thursday, September 8
7pm - Pokemon GO Pub Crawl: 70h5, Spanky's, Pig's Ear, Champs, The White House ($20)

Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort

1045 Settlers Line, Keene
(705) 295-4591

Tuesday, August 30

7:30-9pm - Mayhemingways

Coming Soon

Sunday, September 4
3pm - Bobby Watson and Kate Kelly

New program this fall will teach kids about the Wonders of Water

By GreenUP -
An attendee of the Peterborough Children’s Water Festival participates in a Wonders of Water activity that guides children through building a simulated cross section of soil layers to visualize how water is filtered as it flows underground. The new Wonders of Water pilot program will extends learning from the festival throughout the academic school year to a larger age range. (Photo: GreenUP)

Since its inception in 2001, more than 20,700 students and 5,051 teachers and parent helpers have attended the Peterborough Children’s Water Festival (PCWF) to learn about water protection and conservation.

In the 15 years that it has been running, the festival has functioned as a two-day event but that changes this fall — the thrills of the PCWF are coming to you!

Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Jenn McCallum, Coordinator of Water Education Programs at GreenUP.

Each May, the Peterborough Children’s Water Festival will continue to engage school children in grades two to five with hands-on activities about how we use, interact with, and conserve water. This year, with support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, we are launching a new program called Wonders of Water (WOW).

The WOW program extends the learning from the Water Festival throughout the academic school year with a broader age range (K – 8).

Before piloting the program this fall, we are inviting children, parents, and educators to join our Show and Tell event on Tuesday, August 30th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to engage with and test out our WOW program materials. The event takes place at the Silver Bean Café in Millennium Park in Peterborough.

The goal of the WOW program is to engage children about water in our community, to help kids understand where our drinking water comes from and where our wastewater goes, and to discuss how we can help keep our water clean for humans, plants, and animals.

Our Show and Tell event will showcase WOW program activities. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate, ask questions, provide suggestions, and have fun with water. Rrefreshments will be provided.

Show and Tell attendees with have the opportunity to engage with materials from three classroom programs and dig into three community bins which contain activities developed for children of a variety of age groups such as for Girl Guides, Scouts, home schools, and after-school programs.

When WOW commences, the classroom programs are intended for primary, junior, and intermediate grade levels — Kindergarten to Grade 8 — and will be facilitated by a GreenUP Educator while the community bins will be non-facilitated, but come with a set of activity instructions to guide community groups through the activities.

As the 2015 Peterborough Children's Water Festival, Meredith from Otonabee Conservation shows children the many invertebrates that live in local water systems and how these critters can be indicators of water quality in our lakes, rivers, and streams. WOW activities consist of water science experiments, such as separating sediment from water samples or looking at insect larvae that indicate a stream's water quality. (Photo: GreenUP)
As the 2015 Peterborough Children’s Water Festival, Meredith from Otonabee Conservation shows children the many invertebrates that live in local water systems and how these critters can be indicators of water quality in our lakes, rivers, and streams. WOW activities consist of water science experiments, such as separating sediment from water samples or looking at insect larvae that indicate a stream’s water quality. (Photo: GreenUP)

WOW activities consist of water science experiments, such as separating sediment from water samples or looking at insect larvae that indicate a stream’s water quality. They also look at the heroes and villains of water quality, such as the plants and animals that help keep our water clean from pollutants, such as oil and road salt.

Additionally, the intermediate level program explores the processes of water treatment and wastewater treatment — how the water flowing from our taps reaches us from the Otonabee River, and where our wastewater is treated before being returned to the river.

We also consider why drinking water is the best beverage choice for children, and how we can conserve water in our everyday activities, such as by taking shorter showers and planting gardens that are drought-tolerant. The Healthy Kids Community Challenge has supported this component of the WOW program.

Please join us on August 30th at Silver Bean Café to test out the new WOW program or contact us for more information. We look forward to providing this extension of the Peterborough Children’s Water Festival to classrooms and community groups starting this fall!

For more information about WOW, to register your class or group, or to sign up as a volunteer, contact Jenn McCallum at 705-745-3238 ext. 208 or jenn.mccallum@greenup.on.ca.

Peterborough Symphony Orchestra holding auditions for 50th anniversary season

By kawarthaNOW -
The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra is holding auditions in September for volunteer musicians who wish to perform during its 2016-17 season. Pictured is violinist Jana Farell. (Photo: Wayne Eardley)

The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra (PSO) is holding auditions for area musicians who would like to play with the orchestra during its 50th anniversary season.

PSO Music Director and Conductor Michael Newnham will be auditioning volunteer musicians on Wednesday, September 14, 2016, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The pre-scheduled auditions will take place at Trinity United Church (360 Reid St., Peterborough).

Interested musicians can reserve a timeslot by calling the PSO at 705-742-1992 or emailing info@thepso.org. Musicians will receive further details about what to prepare for the auditions at the time of reservation.

Musicians auditioning for the PSO should be capable of performing at a level equivalent to Royal Conservatory of Music Grade 7, and be available during the performance season to practice their individual part and attend weekly rehearsals with the orchestra during the 2016/17 season from from November 2016 through May 2017.

The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra, directed and conducted by Michael Newnham, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year (photo: www.pso.org)
The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra, directed and conducted by Michael Newnham, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year (photo: www.pso.org)

The PSO, a non-profit charity located in downtown Peterborough at 159 King Street, is comprised of 40 volunteer musicians and professional string section leaders.

For almost 50 years, the orchestra has been a cultural cornerstone of the Peterborough community and has a reputation as one of the finest community-based orchestras in Canada. PSO musicians are the heart of the organization and are essential to its success.

For more information, visit www.thepso.org.

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