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Arts festival celebrates the legacy of late Peterborough artist Bernie Martin

By kawarthaNOW -
A Certain Place: The Bernie Martin Festival celebrates the late playwright, actor, and songwriter Bernie Martin (graphic: Fleshy Thud)

A new arts festival celebrating the legacy of the late Bernie Martin takes place in downtown Peterborough this month.

Organized by Kate Story and Ryan Kerr of Fleshy Thud, A Certain Place: The Bernie Martin Festival celebrates both the legacy of Martin as well as new work, and is organized by discipline: visual arts, spoken word, music, film, and theatre.

The festival features 75 local artists and performers, including Lester Alfonso, Ziy von B, Brad Brackenridge, amy m. cummings, Su Ditta, Jon Lockyer, Brian Mitolo, Victoria Mohr-Blakeney, Janette Platana, Andrew Root, Wes Ryan, Brian Sanderson, David Tough, Victoria Ward, and the Peterborough Poetry Slam Collective.

Many people may not have heard of Bernie Martin, who was a much-respected and influential playwright, actor, and songwriter in the Peterborough arts scene during the early 1990s. He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1994 and passed away in 1995, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of music, painting, writing, film, and theatre.

Bernie Martin died in 1995 (supplied photo)
Bernie Martin died in 1995 (supplied photo)

“Today, he is barely known outside of a select few in and around the Peterborough region,” Story says. “As an artist living and working here, it makes you wonder about who gets to assign cultural significance, and why.”

The desire to acknowledge Martin’s contribution to the arts community in Peterborough (and beyond) led Story and Kerr to approach Bill Kimball of local arts presenter Public Energy to organize a festival. The festival is also supported by the Peterborough Theatre Users Group, the City of Peterborough, The Ontario Arts Council, and Theatre Trent.

“The festival is a celebration — not only of Bernie, but also of this place,” Story explains. “How and why do we make art here? That’s the heart of the festival.”

Besides being a prolific multi-disciplinary artist, Martin demonstrated a strong spirit of mentorship throughout his career, encouraging other artists to produce their own work.

“We’ve also reached out to youth and emerging artists,” Kerr says. “Bernie was a significant mentor of younger artists, and we wanted to honour that.”

Throughout the festival, Story and Kerr, along with musician Benj Rowland, are mentoring four youth in theatre direction, theatre tech, and music.

The festival takes place in downtown Peterborough November primarily at The Theatre on King, with two events at the Spill Café and Evans Contemporary Gallery. The festival is supported by the Peterborough THeatre Users Group, the City of Peterborough, The Ontario Arts Council, and Theatre Trent.

kawarthaNOW has all the events listed on our website, and they are also listed on The Theatre on King’s website at ttok.ca/a-certain-place/. But here a summary for your convenience:

“Do It Yourself” and “The Disgusting Old Man from Kartoon”

When: Thursday, November 3 – Saturday, November 5 at 8 p.m.
What: Two one-act plays by Bernie Martin, interpreted by amy m. cummings (“Do It Yourself”) and Andrew Root “The Disgusting Old Man from Kartoon”
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $15 or pay what you can

Songwriting in the Round

When: Wednesday, November 9 at 8 p.m.
What: A songwriting workshop featuring Benj Rowland, Jill Staveley, Cris Cuddy, Winona Wild, and Ali McCormick, as they discuss their craft and play some tunes.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $10 or pay what you can

“Meat and Potatoes” and “Life Comes To Resemble Unimaginative Literature: Or, The Moment Of My Death”

When: Thursday, November 10 – Saturday, November 12 at 8 p.m.
What: Two one-act plays by Bernie Martin directed by Skylar Ough (“Meat and Potatoes”) and an adaptation of a Bernie short story by Brad Brackenridge and Kate Story (“Life Comes To Resemble…”)
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $15 or pay what you can

Words on Fire! Spoken Word for Youth presentation

When: Monday, November 14 at 8 p.m.
What: Spoken word artist Ziysah von Bieberstein has been working with youth through the festival, teaching spoken word techniques. Come see the results! In partnership with New Canadians Centre, Niijkiwendidaa Anishinaabe Kwewag Services Circle, Rainbow Youth Program at PARN, and others.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $15 or pay what you can

“Bernie Martin” and “Faltan Mas”

When: Wednesday, November 16 at 8 p.m.
What: The world premiere of “Bernie Martin”, an original documentary by local filmmaker Brian Mitolo, and a screening of Bernie Martin performing “Faltan Mas”, his evocative monologue about violence and justice inspired by his visit to Guatemala in 1993.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $10 or pay what you can

Regional Artmaking: Myth and Reality

When: Thursday, November 17 at 8 p.m.
What: A critical panel discusses the mobilization of the concept of “regional” in artistic practice and production. Arts funders love the word. But what do artists who live there think? With panelists amy m. cummings, Dave Tough, Kate Story, Victoria Ward. Moderated by Su Ditta.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: Free

Opening reception: Bernie Martin – Of Another Place

When: Friday, November 18 from 6-10 p.m.
What: Opening reception of an exhibition of Bernie Martin’s visual artworks, with a talk at 8 p.m. by curators Jon Lockyer and Victoria Mohr-Blakeney contextualizing Bernie’s work as a regional artist. Charcuterie, wine and refreshments will be served. Show runs through to December 17.
Where: Evans Contemporary (129 1/2 Hunter St. W., 3rd Floor)
How much: Free

Weekend at Bernie Martin’s

When: Friday, November 18 at 8 p.m.
What: Interpretations of Bernie Martin’s songs featuring Benj Rowland, Jay Swinnerton, emerging musician Ben Bruns, and friends, with an appearance by Words on Fire. An all-ages event.
Where: The Spill (414 George St. N., Peterborough)
How much: $10 or pay what you can

Wordplay Cabaret: Bernie Remixed

When: Saturday, November 19 at 8 p.m.
What: The Peterborough Poetry Slam Collective will interpret some of Bernie Martin’s poetry and feature original and exciting works of spoken word reflecting on the themes in Bernie’s poetry.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $10 or pay what you can

Spoken Word: Transforming Trauma to Resilience through Narrative

When: Monday, November 21 at 8 p.m.
What: Spoken word artist Wes Ryan has been working with members of the group Healing from Within at the John Howard Society, as part of the festival, offering tools for creating original spoken word. Come see the results in this public performance.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $10 or pay what you can

Film Workshops Showcase

When: Tuesday, November 22 at 8 p.m.
What: Filmmakers Lester Alfonso and Brian Mitolo have been leading two separate filmmaking workshops through the festival: Lester has been working with senior citizens on Creative Nonfiction filmmaking (in association with ReFrame Film Festival); Brian has been working with local performing artists to create Cinematic Stories. Come see the works in progress and meet Peterborough’s newest emerging filmmakers in this casual showcase.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $10 or pay what you can

Dark Passage

When:Friday, November 25 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, November 26 at 2 p.m.
What: Juno Award winning musician Brian Sanderson presents his interpretation of one of Bernie’s most difficult and engaging works.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $15 or pay what you can

Remembering Bernie

When: Sunday, November 27 at 8 p.m.
What: Open to all friends and admirers of Bernie Martin. Come share a story, a memory, a reflection, a song, a poem, a wish. Refreshments provided. Featuring Pat Walsh and his guitar.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: Free

Myrmidon

When: Wednesday, November 30 to Saturday, December 3 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, December 4 at 2 p.m.
What: Presented by Public Energy, this remount of last year’s wildly successful presentation of Bernie’s poetic play “Myrmidon” features performers Kate Story and Curtis Driedger. Directed by Ryan Kerr, designed by Martha Cockshutt.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $15 (or pay what you can on opening night only)

styleNOW – No tie required

By Eva Fisher -
John Martin, owner of John Roberts Clothiers in downtown Peterborough, shows how to achieve an office-appropriate look with this Au Noir shirt. No tie is required, as the collar looks great unbuttoned. (Photo: Eva Fisher)

The new men’s dress shirt doesn’t need a tie. These shirts have incredible detailing, soft fabrics, and look equally great with dress pants or a pair of jeans.

John Martin, owner of John Roberts Clothiers in downtown Peterborough, believes that clothing should be worn frequently to earn a spot in your closet.

“The shirt that you wear with a tie just hangs in your closet,” he says, “and that’s not what we want.”

Companies like Robert Graham, Au Noir, Stenströms, and Sand are making shirts than can be worn for almost any occasion.

Dressed up

John wears an Au Noir shirt with Alberto Ceramica pants and a Hugo Boss belt. It's easy to make it casual for the evening: "When I go home I'll throw on a pair of jeans, untuck it and go out." (Photo: Eva Fisher)
John wears an Au Noir shirt with Alberto Ceramica pants and a Hugo Boss belt. It’s easy to make it casual for the evening: “When I go home I’ll throw on a pair of jeans, untuck it and go out.” (Photo: Eva Fisher)

To dress these shirts up you probably won’t need a tie. Au Noir shirts feature contrast detailing at the collar, and by adding a tie you’d lose that great detail.

Above, John demonstrates a work look by tucking his Au Noir shirt in and belting it. With grey dress pants and coordinating brown belt and shoes, this look is office appropriate — but it only takes about 10 seconds to make it casual for the evening.

“When I go home I’ll throw on a pair of jeans, untuck it and go out,” he explains.

This Au Noir shirt is dressed up with Albert Ceramica pants and a Hugo Boss belt. Note the contrast at the collar and cuffs. (Photo: Eva Fisher)
This Au Noir shirt is dressed up with Albert Ceramica pants and a Hugo Boss belt. Note the contrast at the collar and cuffs. (Photo: Eva Fisher)

Above, we’ve also featured a white Au Noir shirt with black and red detailing.

John says that the variety of shirts being made means that “you can buy a shirt for your personality.”

Incredibly versatile, this shirt could be worn untucked with jeans or with a three-piece suit.

Dressed down

This impeccably detailed Robert Graham shirt is styled with jeans by 34 Heritage for an easy casual look. (Photo: Eva Fisher)
This impeccably detailed Robert Graham shirt is styled with jeans by 34 Heritage for an easy casual look. (Photo: Eva Fisher)

Above, we feature a shirt by Robert Graham. Styled with jeans, it’s a fashion-forward casual look for men.

For this shirt, John doesn’t recommend wearing a tie. He points out how the pattern of the shirt joins perfectly across the placket.

“Why buy such a nice shirt and not show it off?”

The right mix

This Sand shirt coordinates perfectly with a Hugo Boss blazer. The look is finished with jeans by DL 1961. (Photo: Eva Fisher)
This Sand shirt coordinates perfectly with a Hugo Boss blazer. The look is finished with jeans by DL 1961. (Photo: Eva Fisher)

If you want to stand out, a blazer in a contrasting print is a great look. Above, we have featured a Sand shirt with a blazer by Hugo Boss.

“With men’s clothing now, everything looks better when it doesn’t match,” John explains.

However, he recommends avoiding the same type of print when you’re mixing prints.

“You don’t want to do plaid on plaid or stripe on stripe.”

Sand shirts are great for pattern matching because the prints are subtle.

The right fit

Companies like Robert Graham, Au Noir, Stenströms, and Sand are making shirts than can be worn for almost any occasion. (Photo: Eva Fisher)
Companies like Robert Graham, Au Noir, Stenströms, and Sand are making shirts than can be worn for almost any occasion. (Photo: Eva Fisher)

The pieces that we wear the most often are usually the ones that fit us best.

According to John, you will wear the right shirt “as much as you can.”

And it could even mean more freedom from the tie.

John Roberts Clothiers is located at 321 George Street North in Peterborough, Ontario. You can call them at 705-748-5212, visit them online at www.johnroberts.ca or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

musicNOW – November 2016

By Josh Fewings -
Virtuouso guitarist Philip Sayce, who's recorded and performed with Jeff Healey and Melissa Etheridge, comes to Peterborough's Market Hall on Thursday, November 17 (publicity photo)

There’s always a lot of great music happening in the Kawarthas and this month is no exception, with a wealth of performances at the two big venues in downtown Peterborough (Showplace and Market Hall). Collabro, Fred Eaglesmith, Philip Sayce, De Temps Antan, The Stampeders, and Séan McCann are some of the big names appearing in Peterborough in November. And don’t forget about the smaller venues in the area, where bands like The Sadies, The Wooden Sky, Rick Fines Trio, and Tasseomancy are performing.

New rehearsal and recording studio in downtown Peterborough

This isn’t a concert obviously, but I wanted to let local musicians know about a new rehearsal and recording studio downtown Peterborough. The fully equipped Guerrilla Studios (140 Simcoe St., Peterborough) is based on the share economy model, with a focus on community and learning.

The stage room can accommodate a five-piece band. It’s a do-it-yourself space, but they’ve got a sound engineer available (Don Mawbey), who’ll be providing some workshops on recording basics.

Five three-hour sessions are available per day from 9 a.m. to midnight. Cost is $25 per hour for full use of the facility and equipment for video/audio recording and rehearsal. There’s also a membership option available that discounts the rate to $20 an hour.

For more details including equipment specs, check out the Guerrilla Studios Facebook page at www.facebook.com/guerrilla.studios.ptbo

The stage room at Guerrilla Studios, a new rehearsal and recording studio in downtown Peterborough (photo: Guerrilla Studios / Facebook)
The stage room at Guerrilla Studios, a new rehearsal and recording studio in downtown Peterborough (photo: Guerrilla Studios / Facebook)

 

The Sadies at the Red Dog, Nick Ferrio’s new band at The Pig’s Ear, and The Wooden Sky at the Gordon Best in Peterborough on November 5

Three great shows a couple of blocks away from each other on the same night? This is definitely nothing new for Peterborough — amazing music at several venues on the same night.

On Saturday, November 5th, The Sadies roll into The Historic Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W, Peterborough, 705-750-1710). They’re one of Canada’s best bands, playing a potent mix of surf, rock and roll, and spaghetti western (Iggy Pop just hailed them!). Dylan Ireland will be opening. Doors open at 8 p.m. and tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

Only a slapshot away at the Pig’s Ear Tavern (144 Brock St., Peterborough, 705-745-7255) will be Nick Ferrio‘s new-ish rock trio featuring Sean Conway, Brandon Munro, and Gratia Leitch, along with folk duo Hurtin’ for Certain featuring Julia Fenn and Megan Kendrick. The music begins at 10 p.m. with a $3 cover.

And a block away it’s Canadian indie/folk rockers The Wooden Sky at Gordon Best Theatre (216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-876-8884). They’ll be playing some tunes from their upcoming release, as well as songs from their previous four albums. Doors open at 7 p.m. for this all-ages licensed show, with tickets $20 plus fees.

Does anyone else think it might be time for a one-price multi-show pass? Having great music at different venues on the same night is great — when they get packed with people. I worry there’s only so much money to go around. Perhaps nights like this one would be even better with an option to see a few shows (or parts of them) for a slightly reduced price.

VIDEO: “Lay Down Your Arms – Translucent Sparrow – Another Year Again” – The Sadies

 

Rick Fines Trio at the Cobourg Legion Auditorium on November 5

An alternative for the night of Saturday, November 5th is to head to the Cobourg Legion Auditorium (136 Orr St., Cobourg) to see the Rick Fines Trio.

The band will be performing songs from the iconic roots/blues guitarist’s latest album, Driving Home, as well as other favourites. The show begins at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $25, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Northumberland Humane Society. Tickets are available at Zap Records at 45 King Street in Cobourg and and My Sister’s Closet at 41 John Street in Port Hope, or contact Bryan Marjoram at bryan.marjoram.23@gmail.com.

VIDEO: “Ridin’ The Rails” – Rick Fines

 

Collabro at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on November 6

Back in 2014, a group of working class lads from England formed an acapella band named Collabro and, only a month later, won Britain’s Got Talent.

Billed as a “musical theatre boy band”, Collabro has since gone on to appear on TV, perform for the Royal Family, and tour internationally, selling out venues like The Royal Albert Hall. Their debut album Stars debuted at number one in the UK.

You have a rare chance to see Collabro perform live on Sunday, November 6th at 8 p.m. at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469).

Tickets are $45.40 and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.

VIDEO: “Stars” from Les Misérables performed by Collabro

 

Tas Cru in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on November 10

Showplace continues its excellent Elite Blues Series this fall with bluesman Tas Cru performing at 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 10th in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469).

Living Blues Magazine says “the vivacity and sheer joy with which Cru plays is intoxicating”. Cru is releasing his latest record Simmered & Stewed — a return to his “acoustic-ish” blues roots — the day after his Peterborough show.

Tickets are $32 and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org. Showplace is offering a special 10% discount if you buy tickets for the Tas Cru show and the Elite Blues Series presentation of Peterborough’s own Rezonator and Al Black on December 17th.

VIDEO: “Black Cat Bone” – Tas Cru & The Tortured Souls

 

The Lenni Stewart Jazz Quartet at The Loft in Cobourg on November 11

Celebrate Remembrance Day with a nostalgic musical revue, “1945 – The Songs That Won The War”, featuring The Lenni Stewart Jazz Quartet at The Loft (201 Division St., Cobourg).

On Friday, November 11th at 7:30 p.m., jazz vocalist Lenni Stewart along with Howard Baer, Michael Monis, and Rob Phillips, will perform the music of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Louis Jordan, Vera Lynn, Peggy Lee, Jo Stafford, Dinah Shore, Marlene Dietrich, Edith Piaf, Gracie Fields, Deanna Durbin, Dinah Shore, The Andrews Sisters, and more. Lenni’s voice has been described as “beautiful, sensual and vibrant.

Tickets are $20 and are available in advance at the Victoria Hall Box Office (905-372-2210).

VIDEO: Lenni Stewart Sings Billie Holiday

 

Fred Eaglesmith and Tif Ginn at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on November 12

North America’s hardest-working troubadour returns to Peterborough for the first time in several years to play Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) on Saturday, November 12th at 8 p.m..

If you haven’t heard Fred Eaglesmith before, it’s definitely time. Heartbreakingly good tunes, knee-slapping stories, and great songwriting.

I could go on and on about Fred, but here are some brief facts. He’s released 22 studio albums. He has a big number of devoted fans called “Fredheads”. He’s been touring for 42 years. He’s owned 11 buses. His songs have been covered by Alan Jackson, Toby Keith, and Todd Snider. That’s barely scratching the surface. Look for a full interview with Fred on kawarthaNOW.com soon.

Opening the show and joining Fred will be his talented and beautiful wife Tif Ginn.

This is alt-country songwriting at its finest folks. Tickets are $31, available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.

VIDEO: “Trucker’s Speed” by Fred Eaglesmith

 

Philip Sayce at the Market Hall in Peterborough on November 17

Attention all guitar heads! Welsh-born Philip Sayce, described as “the most underheralded guitar hero on the circuit,” performs at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Thursday, November 17th at 8 p.m.

The Toronto-based guitarist’s style is heavily influenced by his guitar heros including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Jeff Healey, and Mark Knopfler. At the age of 16, Sayce started playing at blues jam nights at Grossman’s Tavern in downtown Toronto, where legendary guitarist Jeff Healey heard him and invited him to join his band. He later went on to record and perform live with Melissa Etheridge. In 2013, he performed at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Festival at New York’s Madison Square Garden. In 2015, Sayce released Influence, his major label album debut, and scored a top 20 hit at rock radio in Canada with his rendition of Ten Years After’s “I’d Love To Change the World”.

Tickets are $25 plus fees and are available 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).

As a bonus, when you order a ticket for this show, you get a digital download of his forthcoming album, Scorched Earth: Volume 1.

VIDEO: “I’d Love To Change The World” by Ten Years After performed by Philip Sayce

 

De Temps Antan at the Market Hall in Peterborough on November 18

Quebec’s long and storied musical tradition comes to Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Friday, November 18th.

De Temps Antan will blow your mind as part of Folk Under the Clock’s continuing 30th season. Eric Beaudry, Andre Brunet, and Pierre-Luc Dupois are all former members of the world-famous Quebec band La Bottine Souriante. They perform high-energy tunes featuring fiddle, accordion, harmonica, guitar and more with a distinct Quebecois feel.

Dancing shoes highly recommended!

Assigned seating tickets are $35 plus fees ($25 for students) and available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Tickets for Row C and Tables 8 & 9 are available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

VIDEO: De Temps Antan promo

 

Tasseomancy at The Garnet in Peterborough on November 21

The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) has consistently been a venue for excellent music of all genres.

On Monday, November 21st, the experimental music of creepy and beautiful twin sisters Romy Lightman and Sari Lightman will fill The Garnet as Tasseomancy performs.

The Toronto-based duo combines the lyrical and vocal traditions of folk music with the experimental approaches of psychedelia, new wave, and new age music.

VIDEO: “Missoula” – Tasseomancy

 

The Stampeders at Showplace in Peterborough on November 24

Fans of Canadian classic rock will love the fact that The Stampeders are coming back to Peterborough on Thursday, November 24th at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469)

Their hits, including “Sweet City Woman”, “Wild Eyes” and “Carry Me”, will be ringing through town. You have to applaud a band that is still rocking after breaking onto the scene in the 1970s.

Tickets are $55, available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org

VIDEO: “Wild Eyes” – The Stampeders

 

Séan McCann at the Market Hall in Peterborough on November 26

Former Great Big Sea frontman Séan McCann makes a special appearance at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Saturday, November 26th at 8 p.m.

Presented by Market Hall and the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge as “an evening of song and story”, McCann’s appearance is the final stop in his 2016 Road to Recovery tour.

Since leaving the highly successful Great Big Sea in 2013, McCann has been reaching out to a whole new audience by speaking out and singing about mental health and his struggles with addiction. He talks about how his alcoholism was a way to deal with the trauma of childhood sexual abuse by his parish priest while he was growing up in Newfoundland (the same priest also introduced him to alcohol).

“I lived with a secret for 32 years and it almost killed me,” he says. “I know firsthand the value of talking about your problems and facing them, and not keeping them inside.”

Tickets are $35 ($43 for cabaret-style seating) and 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).

VIDEO: “You Know I Love You” – Séan McCann

VIDEO: Séan McCann Speaks

The Business Beat for October 31, 2016

By Stu Harrison -
Rhonda Barnet, VP Finance at Steelworks Design Inc., was recently selected as the first-ever female chair of the national board of directors of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (photo: Steelworks Design Inc.)

Rhonda Barnet

Congratulations to Rhonda Barnet on becoming the new Chair of the Board of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME), their first female chair in history.

She has served as a director on CME’s board since 2013 and is currently the VP of Finance at Steelworks Design Inc. in Peterborough.

Complete Retail Solutions Inc.

Complete Retail Solutions Inc. accepting a best of show award at the Grocery Innovations Canada trade show (supplied photo)
Complete Retail Solutions Inc. accepting a best of show award at the Grocery Innovations Canada trade show (supplied photo)

Pan-Oston is the driving force behind a collaborative initiative that brings together four local Peterborough companies under a collective sales initiative called Complete Retail Solutions Inc. (CRS).

The companies are: Optifi, which measures brand impressions in high traffic venues; Woodarts, whose millwork can be found everywhere from the LCBO to the National Library; TechnLite, which provides LED large screen signage; and Pan-Oston, a leader in manufacturing checkouts and commercial display fixtures. The Complete Retail Solutions alliance has attracted Southern CaseArts, a US-based specialty manufacturer of refrigerated and hot food display ceases.

The CRS initiative was introduced at the Grocery Innovations Canada trade show where they met with instant success, receiving a Best of Show award and attracting a lot of attention. Congratulations to everyone on this fantastic local collaboration.

Lakefield Foodland

Ross Bletsoe of Lakefield Foodland (photo: Cayuga Displays / YouTube)
Ross Bletsoe of Lakefield Foodland (photo: Cayuga Displays / YouTube)

That same show saw Lakefield Foodland awarded the Top Independent Grocer of the Year Award in the small surface category.

Congratulations to Ross and Carol and Ian and Sarah Bletsoe of Lakefield Foodland.

Marianne Beacon

Marianne Beacon is the owner of Elderberry Herbals and the Elderberry Clinic in Peterborough (photo: Elderberry Herbals)
Marianne Beacon is the owner of Elderberry Herbals and the Elderberry Clinic in Peterborough (photo: Elderberry Herbals)

Congratulations to Marianne Beacon of Elderberry Clinic, who was recently named President of the Ontario Herbalist Association.

Peterborough Chamber of Commerce Business Summit

Peter Lawler of the Business Development Bank of Canada will deliver the breakfast keynote at the Peterborough Chamber Business Summit (photo: Camilla Pucholt)
Peter Lawler of the Business Development Bank of Canada will deliver the breakfast keynote at the Peterborough Chamber Business Summit (photo: Camilla Pucholt)

The Chamber of Commerce Business Summit takes place next Thursday (November 10th).

The theme is “scaling up” and attendees can choose from four workshops and enjoy two keynote speakers. There’s also a new feature called speed consulting where attendees can get 10 minutes of one-on-one with a local business expert.

For more information, visit www.peterboroughchamber.ca.

Maude Barlow

Political activist, author, and policy critic Maude Barlow (photo: Wolfgang Schmidt)
Political activist, author, and policy critic Maude Barlow (photo: Wolfgang Schmidt)

Maude Barlow, Chair of the Council of Canadians, will be speaking on Canada’s water crisis tomorrow (November 1st) from 7 to 10 p.m. at Adam Scott Collegiate in Peterborough.

For more information, call Roy Brady at 705-745-2446.

Electric City Hacks

More than 350 students are expected to attend Trent University's first-ever hackathon, Electric City Hacks, from November 4th to 6th (logo: Ana Djurkovic)
More than 350 students are expected to attend Trent University’s first-ever hackathon, Electric City Hacks, from November 4th to 6th (logo: Ana Djurkovic)

The Innovation Cluster and Blackberry present Electric City Hacks this weekend (November 4th to 6th) at Trent University.

At Trent University’s first-ever hackathon, 350 student thinkers from across Canada will demonstrate their skills and innovations.

For more information, visit 2016.echacks.xyz.

Tri-Association Manufacturing Conference

Dr. Roger Firestein of the International Center for Studies in Creativity will give a keynote on innovation and collaboration at the Tri-Association Manufacturing Conference (publicity photo)
Dr. Roger Firestein of the International Center for Studies in Creativity will give a keynote on innovation and collaboration at the Tri-Association Manufacturing Conference (publicity photo)

The annual Tri-Association Manufacturing Conference takes place next Tuesday (November 8) at the Cobourg Best Western.

The conference provides local manufacturers with a day of professional development.

Details are available at www.thekma.ca.

It’s not enough to simply roll out the welcome mat

By Paul Rellinger -
Excellence in customer service is even more important in the age of social media. Kathleen Seymour is owner and operator of the Kawartha Coffee Co. in downtown Bobcaygeon, which received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence in 2015 because of consistently great reviews from customers. Business owners and employees can take a free online course in customer service excellence thanks to regional tourism organization RTO8. (Photo courtesy of RTO8)

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

Whether you agree with Maya Angelou’s oft-quoted take on the end result of positive human interaction, evidence shows it takes as little as seven seconds to make a first impression. And when it comes to customer service in the age of social media, first impressions can have immediate and lasting benefits (or consequences) for your business.

Brenda Wood knows full well the huge role a positive first impression — and what follows — makes in ensuring a memorable experience for both residents and visitors. Brenda is executive director of Peterborough-based Regional Tourism Organization 8 (RTO8), a not-for-profit entity funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Sport whose purpose is to support a competitive and sustainable tourism industry, attract visitors, generate economic activity, and create jobs within the region that encompasses Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough and the Kawarthas, and Northumberland County.

As such, she’s urging her organization’s tourism partners to take full advantage of a free online customer service training program offered through the Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC) in partnership with Peterborough and the Kawarthas Tourism, Explore Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland Tourism, and the Province of Ontario.

“Customer service is key in helping us secure more visitors to our region,” Brenda explains. “We’re competing for visitor dollars with every other area in Ontario and across Canada.”

The interactive online course, called Service Excellence Dynamics, is customized for the Kawarthas Northumberland region and only takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. The course is available 24/7, and you can return where you left off if you get pulled away for any reason. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a certificate you can proudly display in your business.

“Everyone coming into your establishment is basically a media contact,” Brenda says. “If they have a great experience, they’re going to get on their social media account and let people know about it. If we can increase our customer service skills, then we’re going to be more competitive. If a customer receives superior service, it’s the foundation of everything they experience.”

The online Service Excellence Dynamics course is free, available 24/7, and takes as little as 30 minutes to complete. Brenda Wood, executive director of RTO8, says anyone who works with the general public will benefit from taking the course. (Graphic: RTO8)
The online Service Excellence Dynamics course is free, available 24/7, and takes as little as 30 minutes to complete. Brenda Wood, executive director of RTO8, says anyone who works with the general public will benefit from taking the course. (Graphic: RTO8)

With 600 certificates to be awarded, the Service Excellence Dynamics course has been available at rto8.com/opportunities/education/ since May and will continue to be available until the end of March 2017. It focuses on the “three Ps” of effective customer service — Professional, Proficient, and Proactive — under five headings: The Moment of Truth (initial interaction), Behaviour Guidelines, Communicating Effectively, Service Process, and Overcoming Servicing Challenges.

Excellent customer service is vital to the success of any business, be it tourism-related or otherwise. Customer service can have a huge impact on your bottom line, can make or break your reputation, and is critical to competing effectively. As well, numerous studies have shown that customers are willing to pay more for a better customer experience. With great service assured, they will come back.

Happy customers are more likely to recommend businesses to family and friends using social media and online travel review websites like TripAdvisor. One family that booked rooms at Saucy Willow Inn in Coboconk for their parents' 50th wedding anniversary commented "Chris and Cathy were very friendly and fun hosts. They serve the most amazing breakfasts!... we will definitely return." (Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor)
Happy customers are more likely to recommend businesses to family and friends using social media and online travel review websites like TripAdvisor. One family that booked rooms at Saucy Willow Inn in Coboconk for their parents’ 50th wedding anniversary commented “Chris and Cathy were very friendly and fun hosts. They serve the most amazing breakfasts!… we will definitely return.” (Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor)

Catharine Kersteman, who owns and operates Saucy Willow Inn in Coboconk with her husband Chris, certainly knows all this. Back in May, when the course first became available, Catharine jumped on the opportunity.

“Customer service is at the core of my business,” she says. “We get comments on TripAdvisor like ‘Catharine and Chris were great’ or ‘Catharine and Chris were there when we needed them’. That’s important for any business. When I’m the customer, if I don’t get good customer service, I’m not going back.”

Catharine says the training was “very easy … a piece of cake” to complete. She adds that, while she has no employees, if she did she would make sure all took the course.

“Owners and managers know about customer service, but are their employees carrying through?” she asks.

In her effort to spread word of the course’s availability, Brenda has reached out to Fleming College’s tourism and hospitality and culinary arts programs as well as the Labour Employment Development Council and local chambers of commerce and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs). Then there’s her organizations own database of some 1,300 operators.

Manager Cameron Hughes with satsified customers at The Waddell, a boutique hotel in Port Hope (photo courtesy of RTO8)
Manager Cameron Hughes with satsified customers at The Waddell, a boutique hotel in Port Hope (photo courtesy of RTO8)

“It’s not just tourism and hospitality professionals who can benefit,” Brenda points out. “It’s the people at gas stations, restaurants, attractions, accommodations, and retail stores as well — anyone who’s working with the general public.”

Brenda adds that, even if business owners and employees have already taken customer training, they would benefit from a 30-minute refresher course. Or they may have hired new staff who don’t understand customer service is a priority, and the online course is something they can complete easily and quickly.

“If you haven’t focused on customer service, this is a little tool with a big impact,” she says. “Refresh yourself, introduce new staff to it, and have them complete it so everyone is on the same page — offering top-level customer service.”

The Service Excellence Dynamics course is available now at rto8.com/opportunities/education/. Registration is easy and free, and it takes as little as 30 minutes to complete.

For more information about Regional Tourism Organization 8, and its objectives and services, visit rto8.com.

Bras Around the Building collects 7,000 bras and raises $16,500 for breast cancer research

By kawarthaNOW -
Donna Chamberlain, who alone collected 1,953 bras, with My Left Breast owner Bridget Leslie in front of the Country 105/Energy 99.7 building in downtown Peterborough (photo: Eva Fisher)

91.9 BOB FM, Energy 99.7, Country 105, and Shorelines Slots At Kawartha Downs have wrapped up the 6th annual “Bras Around the Building” campaign.

With the support of the community, the campaign collected 7,000 bras in Lindsay and Peterborough. And thanks to a generous contribution of $8,000 from Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs, along with other monetary donations from local businesses, organizations, and individuals, the 2016 Bras Around the Building Campaign has raised over $16,500.

The funds will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society for breast cancer research, bringing the total raised by the campaign over the past six years to more than $100,000.

The 91.9 BOB FM building in Lindsay was also decorated with donated bras (photo: Bras Around the Building)
The 91.9 BOB FM building in Lindsay was also decorated with donated bras (photo: Bras Around the Building)

For the past month, women in Peterborough, Lindsay, and the Kawarthas have been donating their gently used bras, and many local women and businesses also took up collections from family and friends for the campaign.

One of the big heroes of the day was Donna Chamberlain, who alone collected 1,953 bras. Denise Vallee and Associates donated collected 133 bras and donated $1,250. My Left Breast collected 265 bras and gave a $400 donation.

“I think it’s our fifth year being involved with Bras Around the Building,” says owner Bridget Leslie. “We were excited to help to exceed their goal of raising $100,000 over the six years that this fundraiser has been going on for. We’d like to thank our customers and the community for all of their support.”

Denise Vallee and Associates raised $1,250 in donations and collected 133 bras (photo: Eva Fisher)
Denise Vallee and Associates raised $1,250 in donations and collected 133 bras (photo: Eva Fisher)

The collected bras are currently wrapped around the BOB FM building at 249 Kent Street West in Lindsay and the Country 105/Energy 99.7 building at 59 George Street North in downtown Peterborough. MC Tree Service and the Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service helped place the bras on the building, and McDonald’s fed the volunteers.

The public is encouraged to take some pictures over the weekend. The bras will remain on display until 9 a.m. on Monday, October 31st. They will then be dry cleaned courtesy of Rocky’s Cleaners in Peterborough and Cintas Uniform Services in Lindsay and delivered, courtesy of Brinks Peterborough, to Seeds of Hope as part of their relief efforts in Haiti and the Honduras.

Members of the organizing committee: Bridget Leslie, Vince Bierworth, Susan Dunkley, Allison Payne, and Denise Vallee. Not pictured: Anne Arnold, Mel Hannah, and Arlene Godby. (Photo: Eva Fisher)
Members of the organizing committee: Bridget Leslie, Vince Bierworth, Susan Dunkley, Allison Payne, and Denise Vallee. Not pictured: Anne Arnold, Mel Hannah, and Arlene Godby. (Photo: Eva Fisher)

Puppies flown into Peterborough ready to find their forever homes

By kawarthaNOW -
One of the 58 dogs flown in on October 7 from the community of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug at Big Trout Lake. The dogs are now available for adoption. (Photo: Peterborough Human Society)

The puppies flown into Peterborough Airport from a remote northern Ontario community a few weeks ago will be available for adoption beginning next week.

Adoptions will be on a first-come first-served basis on Monday, October 31st through the Peterborough Humane Society (385 Lansdowne Street East, Peterborough, 705-745-7676) and on Wednesday, November 2nd at the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes (111 McLaughlin Rd, Lindsay, 705-878-4618). Viewings at the Peterborough Humane Society begin at 10 a.m. on Monday.

On October 7th, a North Star Air plane carrying 58 dogs from the community of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (Big Trout Lake), located about 500 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, arrived at the Peterborough Airport.

North Star Air partnered with the Ontario SPCA's Provincial Animal Transfer Team and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug to assist with the transfer. (Photo: Ross Davis)
North Star Air partnered with the Ontario SPCA’s Provincial Animal Transfer Team and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug to assist with the transfer. (Photo: Ross Davis)

North Star Air has taken a key leadership role in the north to help address the pet overpopulation issue in remote fly-in only communities. Committed to playing an active role in making a positive difference within First Nation communities, the Thunder Bay-based airline partnered with the Ontario SPCA’s Provincial Animal Transfer Team and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug to assist with the transfer.

Related story

58 dogs fly in to the Peterborough Airport to find forever homes

“It takes many partners to successfully transfer so many dogs, particularly when we’re working with remote northern Ontario communities,” says Andrew Fraser, Executive Director of the Peterborough Humane Society. “North Star Air’s support as our airline carrier was key and gave these puppies a second chance by giving them a temporary set of wings to find their forever homes.”

The Provincial Animal Transfer Team was established by the Ontario SPCA and is made up of volunteers and organizations from all across Ontario, working to help move animals across the province to shelters where they can find new homes.

A team of volunteers, including veterinarians and veterinary technicians, triaged the 58 dogs after they arrived at the Peterborough Airport. (Photo: Ross Davis)
A team of volunteers, including veterinarians and veterinary technicians, triaged the 58 dogs after they arrived at the Peterborough Airport. (Photo: Ross Davis)

After North Star Air’s yellow and black Basler BT-67 plane landed on the tarmac at the Peterborough Airport, the dogs were unloaded and brought into a hangar where they were triaged by a team of volunteers, including veterinarians and veterinary technicians.

Once cleared for further transport, the dogs were brought to the Peterborough Humane Society, the North Bay & District Humane Society, the Welland & District Humane Society, the Sarnia & District Humane Society, the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes and the Quinte Humane Society to be placed into their adoption programs.

“One of our goals at North Star Air is helping the communities and people in the north,” says Mary-Ellen Thomas, Commercial, PR, Sales & Marketing of North Star Air Ltd. “There are many of our partner communities where the pet overpopulation presents a real problem. The Basler BT -7 is one of the perfect fits for this program as it has the room for the dogs to safely be transported out of the communities.”

Hydro One offers to buy Peterborough Distribution Inc. for $105 million

By kawarthaNOW -
Hydro One is offering $105 million in cash to buy Peterborough Distribution Inc. (photo: Peterborough Utilities Group)

City of Peterborough Holdings Inc. is recommending the City of Peterborough accept an offer from Hydro One and sell Peterborough Distribution Inc. (PDI), the city’s regulated electricity distribution company.

According to a media release from the city’s private corporation that owns Peterborough Distribution Inc. (PDI), the Hydro One offer includes:

  • A cash offer of $105 million for PDI
  • Stable electricity distribution rates for Peterborough
  • Job protection for PDI employees
  • Creation of a new Hydro One Operations Centre and Fleet Maintenance Garage in Peterborough, with the addition of 30 new jobs while keeping 70 existing Hydro One jobs based in Peterborough
  • Guarantees for customer service quality.
Related story

City of Peterborough launching community consultation on potential Hydro One sale

“This is a strong financial deal for the City of Peterborough,” says John Stephenson, President and Chief Executive Officer of City of Peterborough Holdings Inc. “Our board of directors has conducted a careful and thorough review of the Hydro One offer.”

The board was unanimous in its recommendation to the City of Peterborough to sell PDI to Hydro One.

Stephenson says he’s confident will benefit ratepayers by lowering electricity distribution rates and locking in distribution rate stability for at least 10 years.

Details about the offer are available on the newly launched Peterborough Utilities Group website at poweringourfuture.ca.

The media release from City of Peterborough Holdings Inc. doesn’t indicate when the board decided to recommend Hydro One’s offer be accepted. However, the newly launched Peterborough Utilities Group website contains all the information about the offer, and today’s announcement appears to be coordinated with the October 25th announcement from the City of Peterborough about a community consultation process on the Hydro One offer beginning October 31st.

nightlifeNOW – October 27 to November 2

By kawarthaNOW -
Ryan and Sam of The Weber Brothers, who are performing with their band at The Arlington in Maynooth on Friday, October 28 (photo: Linda McIlwain / kawarthaNOW)

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, October 27 to Wednesday, November 2.

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
The Cat & The Fiddle Lindsay
Catalina's
The Ceilie (Trent University student pub)
Chemong Lodge
The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse
Coach & Horses Pub
Dobro Restaurant & Bar
Dominion Hotel
Embers Grill House
Frank's Pasta and Grill
The Garnet
Gordon Best Theatre
Junction Nightclub
McThirsty's Pint
The Mill Restaurant and Pub
Oasis Bar & Grill
Pastry Peddler
Pattie House Smokin' Barbecue
Pig's Ear Tavern
Pitchers Place
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
Red Dog Tavern
Riley's Olde Town Pub
Shots
Southside Pizzeria
The Spill
Tank House
The Venue
White House Hotel
Winchester Arms

7oh5

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

Thursday, October 27

10pm - Suicide Squad Halloween Party

Saturday, October 29

8pm - Hallowe'en Haunt for United Way ft DJ Bones ($10 in advance, $12 at door)

Monday, October 31

10pm - DJ Drama Diablo Halloween Night

Coming Soon

Saturday, November 26
10pm - Beats n' Booty S-Ka-Paid Album Release Party ($10, 19+)

ARIA

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

Saturday, October 29

10pm - Zombies ($5)

Arlington Pub

32990 Highway 62, Maynooth
(613) 338-2080

Friday, October 28

9pm - The Weber Brothers ($10)

VIDEO: "I Still Believe" - The Weber Brothers

Saturday, October 29

9pm - Halloween Party w/ DJ Kloudliner

Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub

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

Friday, October 28

9pm - Dave Byrski

Saturday, October 29

9pm - Haunting Halloween Bash w/ karaoke, prizes for best costumes (19+, no cover)

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, October 27

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

Friday, October 28

5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Doug Dynasty

Saturday, October 29

5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Four Lanes Wide

Sunday, October 30

3pm - Odd Man Rush

Monday, October 31

7pm - Halloween Party w/ Rick & Gailie (prizes for best costume)

Tuesday, November 1

7:30pm - Open Mic w/ Randy Hill

Wednesday, November 2

8pm - Student night ft Dickie & The Boys w/ guest bands

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

Friday, October 28

9pm - Chris Culgan Band

The Cat & The Fiddle Lindsay

49 William St. N., Lindsay
(705) 878-4312

Saturday, October 29

8pm - Halloween Party ft The Harry Peterson Band, prizes for best costume

Coming Soon

Saturday, November 12
8pm - 9th Anniversary Party ft The Bomb Retro '80s

Catalina's

131 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-5972

Sunday, October 30

3-6pm - Halloween Matinee ft Mayhemingways & Willie Stratton (all ages, $10 in advance, $15 at door)

Coming Soon

Friday, November 4
9pm - A Night of Honky-Tonk with Nudie and James McKenty

Sunday, November 6
2pm - Red Room Quartet

The Ceilie (Trent University student pub)

1600 West Bank Dr., Peterborough
(705) 748-1011

Coming Soon

Wednesday, November 9
2-6pm - Trent Student Psychology Society presents Meet the Professors

Chemong Lodge

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

Thursdays

5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

Fridays

5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse

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

Thursday, October 27

9pm - Benj Rowland w/ Ray on the Radio

Friday, October 28

9pm - Shawn Dore

Saturday, October 29

9pm - Pub Halloween ft Mick Manning, Peter Thorn & friends, awards for best costumes

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

Friday, October 28

9pm - Halloween Karaoke w/ DJ Ross, prize for best costume

Saturday, October 29

8pm - Halloween Costume Party w/ U Jimmy, prize for best costume

Wednesdays

7-11pm - Live music

Coming Soon

Saturday, November 5
5:30-9pm - Newfoundland Night 2016 in support of A Place Called Home ft music by John Turner ($30, at http://www.apch.ca/events/nl)

Dobro Restaurant & Bar

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

Thursday, October 2

10pm - Robin Hawkins Band (no cover)

Friday, October 28

10pm - Halloween Weekend Costume Party ft Howard Ross and The Full Count Band (no cover)

Saturday, October 29

10pm - Halloween Weekend Costume Party ft Kevin Carley Band with Graham Earl, Shea Bailey and Don Fernley (no cover)

Wednesdays

Open stage

Coming Soon

Friday, November 18 & Saturday, November 19
Monkey Junk "Time to Roll" CD Release ($20)

Dominion Hotel

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

Saturday, October 29

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

Coming Soon

Friday, November 4
8:30pm - Open mic

Saturday, November 5
2pm - Kitchen Party Music Jam (free, musicians and fans welcome)

Embers Grill House

38 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon
(705) 738-6343

Wednesday, November 2

Open Mic Night w/ host Richard Kyle

Frank's Pasta and Grill

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

Thursdays

5-8pm - Live music

Fridays

9pm-12am - Karaoke Night

Saturday, October 29

8pm - Halloween Party ft Reefer Jones w/ prizes for best costume; 10pm - DJ Chrome

Sundays

4-8pm - Kids Karaoke

Tuesdays

7pm & 8pm - Salsa Classes beginners & intermediate ($10/lesson)

Wednesdays

8-11pm - Open Mic

Coming Soon

Saturday, November 5
8pm - David Bowie Tribute Night; 11pm - DJ Chrome

The Garnet

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

Thursday, October 27

Jesse and The Dandelions, Hello Holiday

Friday, October 28

Monique Barry, Brennon Wasson

Saturday, October 29

Halloween Party

Sunday, October 30

Show and Tell Poetry Series: Keyboards

Tuesday, November 1

Thunderclap

Wednesday, November 2

Laura Tremblay

Coming Soon

Thursday, November 3
Sean Conway and Postmodern Cowboys Tour Launch

Friday, November 4
Damnable Man, Clara Engel, ELMS

Saturday, November 5
Common Holly, Prime Junk

Sunday, November 6
Scott Somerville

Gordon Best Theatre

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

Coming Soon

Friday, November 4
7pm - Peterborough Folk Fest presents Birds Of Chicago ($15 general admission, tickets at www.peterboroughfolkfest.com)

Saturday, November 5
7pm - The Wooden Sky ($20, tickets at www.thegordonbest.ca)

Saturday November 12
7pm - Kevin Kane of Grapes Of Wrath & Bryan Potvin of The Northern Pikes ($20, tickets at www.thegordonbest.ca)

Saturday, November 19
7pm - Hillary Dumoulin CD Release w/ Broken Harmony ($15, available at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16421/)

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

Tuesday, November 29
7pm - Plants And Animals ($15)

Friday, December 2
8pm - Tommy Youngsteen ($20 at www.thegordonbest.ca)

Junction Nightclub

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

Friday, October 28

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

Saturday, October 29

10pm - Peterborough Horror Story Halloween Costume Party, $1000 in giveaways for best costumes

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, October 27

7pm - Invisible Sideman

Coming Soon

Thursday, November 3
7pm - Mulligan Thyme

Oasis Bar & Grill

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

Thursdays

6:30pm - Live music

Sundays

5:30pm - PHLO

Wednesdays

6:30pm - Live music

Pastry Peddler

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

Friday, October 28

5:30 & 7:45pm - Jazz Dinner Weekend ft. Bernardo Padron & Mark Sepic ($40 per person)

Saturday, October 29

5:30 & 7:45pm - Jazz Dinner Weekend ft. Bernardo Padron & Mark Sepic ($40 per person)

Pattie House Smokin' Barbecue

6675 Highway 35, Coboconk
(705) 454-8100

Saturday, October 29

10pm - Halloween Dance Party w/ DJ and prizes for best costumes

Pig's Ear Tavern

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

Fridays

Pingo

Saturday, October 29

9pm - Gagner (costumes encouraged)

Mondays

Pool Night

Tuesdays

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

Wednesdays

Humpday Karaoinke

Coming Soon

Saturday, November 5
10pm - Nick Ferrio w/ Hurtin' for Certain ($3)

Pitchers Place

8642 Lander Rd (Gores Landing), Cobourg
(905) 342-2832

Thursday, October 27

6-9pm - Folk Thursdays ft Kim Doolittle and Clayton Yates ($7)

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

Thursday, October 27

10pm - TUNS w/ Young Rivals ($10 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16089/)

Friday, October 28

8pm - Bobby Watson CD Release w/ Greg Wells (no cover)

Saturday, October 29

10pm - Express and Co.

Tuesdays

10pm - Open mic w/ Matt Diamond

Coming Soon

Thursday, November 3
Lauren Mann

Saturday, November 5
8pm - The Sadies w/ Union City ($15 in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16294/, $20 at door)

Friday, November 11
9pm - The Balconies

Thursday, November 17
10pm - Bif Naked ($25 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16296/)

Friday, November 25
10:30pm - Adam Gontier acoustic ($20 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16445/)

Saturday, November 26
Plaid on Flannel

Thursday, December 8
10pm - PUP ($12 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16330/)

Friday, December 16
10:30pm - A Tribe Called Red ($25 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16440/)

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

Shots

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

Saturday, October 29

10pm - Stranger Shots Halloween Party ft DJs and Dancing (no cover)

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

The Spill

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

Thursday, October 27

7:30- 9:30pm - Peterborough Poetry Slam and the Trent Writers Society "Lay Down Your Words" Writing Workshop ($5 or PWYC)

Friday, October 28

9pm - Television Rd w/ Native Other, Bolete, Stunspore ($10 or $5 with a costume)

Saturday, October 29

3pm - Bobby Dove Album Launch w/ Megan Nash, Bears in Hazenmore ($10 at door); 8pm - Super Funk Band Of Awesome

Sunday, October 30

Garbageface Special

Monday, October 31

Spooky Dice Spectacular

Coming Soon

Friday, November 4
9pm - Kitty Pitt, The Brain, Deathsticks (all ages, $5 or PWYC)

Sunday, November 6
9pm - Viva Non, Olias (all ages, $8 or PWYC)

Tank House

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

Friday, October 28

5:30pm - High Waters Band; 8:30pm - Retro Rewind Monster Mash w/ DJ Bob

Saturday, October 29

3pm - The Cadillacs; 9pm - Halloween Party ft Superfreak

Tuesday, October 25

5:30-9:30pm - Jade Eagleson

Coming Soon

Friday, November 4
5:30pm - The Cadillacs

Saturday, November 5
3pm - Tami J. Wilde

The Venue

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

Coming Soon

Thursday, November 17
Handbags for Hospice ($50 or $100)

White House Hotel

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

Thursdays

7pm - Red Hot Poker Tour (registration opens at 6pm)

Mondays

7pm - Red Hot Poker Tour (registration opens at 6pm)

Wednesdays

7pm - Red Hot Poker Tour (registration opens at 6pm)

Winchester Arms

299 Ridout St., Port Hope
(905) 885-9393

Tuesdays

7pm - Trivia night

Leon’s Peterborough benefits from going green

By GreenUP -
Tom Reburn Jr., owner and operator of Leon's Peterborough, accessed lighting upgrade incentives in the amount of $4,120 with an ongoing estimated savings of $430 per month, and $5,000 annually, with newly installed energy efficient LED lighting (photo: Peterborough Distribution Inc.)

With over 60 years of experience, Leon’s is one of the largest furniture retailers in Peterborough. In addition to prioritizing excellent customer service, Leon’s is also taking steps to become a more sustainable corporate citizen.

This year, Tom Reburn Jr., owner and operator of Leon’s Furniture, participated in the Save on Energy Retrofit Program from Peterborough Distribution Inc. (PDI) and received financial incentives to make the building more energy efficient.

Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Amy Bowen, GreenUP Green Business Peterborough Network Lead and Troy Weiss, Peterborough Distribution Inc.

To access these financial incentives, businesses need an application representative. Tom explains that incentives became easily accessible with the help of Lancer Electric, a local electrical contracting company that helped him access these programs.

“Nathan from Lancer Electric had recommended changing the lights for some time,” he says. “The electrician did all of the paperwork to get the Retrofit Program rebate. It was very easy to participate.”

Once the energy efficiency project was pre-approved by PDI, Leon’s received an incentive amount of $4,120 off of the original project cost of $18,830 — or 22% of the total cost.

With this money, Tom was able to install new energy-efficient lighting. This switch will yield 50,888 kWh in savings per year, which in turn will save Leon’s an estimated $430 a month and over $5,000 annually.

And this new efficient lighting will have paid for itself in just under three years — far shorter than the lifetime of the lights, which last an estimated 35,000 to 50,000 hours.

In addition to saving money, upgrading to longer-lasting LEDs will cut maintenance costs and display retail products in a better light. For a furniture store, having lighting that enhances product display is important for effectively showcasing merchandise to customers.

A better lit shopping space also creates a more comfortable working environment for staff. Combined, these positive outcomes of the energy efficient project ultimately encourage better sales.

To become part of the Retrofit Program, businesses must get pre-approval of their application. The application includes the project cost quote and the equipment specifications to ensure energy savings and the quality of the replacement product.

Pre-approval allows business customers to embark on their upgrade project knowing the approved incentive amount and the return on investment timeline. Once a business has been pre-approved by PDI, the project can be completed and the rebate is issued to the customer.

Depending on the amount of energy consumption saved from the project, the business could receive up to 50% of their projects costs back.

Leon’s is one of many local businesses who are taking advantage of these incentive programs; they are part of a global movement to make businesses more energy efficient.

Businesses interested in being more sustainable can do so at a local level, in the Peterborough area. This month saw the PBX event at Camp Kawartha. The event hosted green businesses in our local region, and was a great opportunity for the business
community, employers, consumers, and community agencies to make valuable connections.

Over 70 people participated in the event on October 4th. Host Jacob Rodenburg set up team building outdoor activities including high ropes, axe and knife throwing, and teamwork challenges for the business community to participate in.

This event showcased the Green Business Peterborough program, providing information on previous businesses that have accessed incentive programs, such as Peterborough Square and Home Depot. Other vendors included PDI, TRACKS, Sustainable Peterborough, Random Acts of Green, By the Bushel, Kawartha Land Trust, Flanaghan & Sun, Torbram Electric, ORCA, and the Chamber, all of which support green business initiatives.

These business-to-business connections are important to establish, as they encourage support between local businesses invested in similar causes. Sharing sustainability stories facilitates communication about how corporate citizens can be environmentally mindful, while increasingly productivity.

Sustainability is a community effort. Connecting business owners to each other and recognizing green businesses in our community encourages future sustainability projects and fosters an understanding of both the environmental and financial benefits of retrofitting buildings.

The Green Business Peterborough program is a partnership between GreenUP, the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, and PDI. If you’re considering facility upgrades, GreenUP can act as the application representative on your retrofitting application.

To learn more about the Green Business Peterborough program, please visit www.greenbusinesspeterborough.ca.

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