The thunderstorms on Thursday (May 18) have knocked out power to more than 32,000 customers in cottage country, just before cottage season unofficially opens on the Victoria Day long weekend.
As of Friday (May 19), Hydro One reports 331 outages in a broad swath north of Toronto, from Parry Sound east to Ottawa.
Significant damage was caused to power lines by the strong winds that accompanied Thursday’s thunderstorms.
In the Kawarthas, the thunderstorms veered to the north, resulting in outages in areas around Minden, Apsley, and Bancroft.
Hydro One’s outage map on Friday, May 19th shows locations without power across cottage country. (Map: Hydro One)
Although hydro crews are working to restore power to affected customers, it is unknown when hydro will be fully restored.
Three businesses to help you make the most of cottage season: powersports and marine from Dunfords of Havelock, an easy and safe way to split kindling using The Kindling Maker, and (pictured) fishing and family fun at Southview Cottages on Rice Lake. (Photo: Southview Cottages)
The Victoria Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of cottage season. Whether you want to get out on the ATV and explore, easily and safely make some kindling for your campfire, or enjoy a cottage without the commitment, these three businesses will help you enjoy the best of the outdoors in the Kawarthas this summer.
Get some mud in your tires with Dunfords of Havelock
Forget the parking lot: Dunfords of Havelock lets you try out your ATV, UTV or 4x4 in real conditions before you buy it. (Photo: Dunfords of Havelock)
Deb Taylor shows off one of Dunfords of Havelock's many side by sides with shop dog and door greeter Barney. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Owner Murray Croteau kept the Dunfords name because of the business's great reputation throughout central Ontario. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Glenn Girard started working for Dunfords of Havelock in 1998. His service expertise is one reason people keep coming back. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Finding the perfect ATV or side by side isn’t just about the specs. It’s about getting out in the field, trying it out in real-world conditions, and knowing you’re dealing with people who know their products and will back them with great service.
Dunfords of Havelock (9323 County Rd. 30, Havelock, 705-778-3767) was established in 1970. The Dunford brothers started in the street bike business, but when ATVs came out their off road business boomed and they refocused. Dunfords was recently bought by Murray Croteau, who kept the Dunford name because of its great reputation.
They sell boats, jetskis, side by sides, snowmobiles, ATVs, trailers, FLOE docks, power equipment, parts, and accessories. They also have a repair shop with staff who will keep your motors running when you need them, and a storage facility to keep them safe and out of your way when you don’t. They carry products by Honda, Yamaha, G3, Suncatcher, Mirrocraft, Montego Bay, and Triton.
Deb Taylor has been working for Dunfords of Havelock since 2008. She says that having a staff that’s not too pushy is one of the keys to their success.
“I think what’s helped to build the Dunfords reputation is that our sales staff are not driven by making commission. It’s a team effort here to make a customer happy.”
Deb says that when you offer great service, people come back, and they tell their friends.
“We have been in the top 25 dealers for Honda in all of Canada, year after year after year. I think a big part of that reason is because we work as a team and because everybody gets a chance to demo what they think they want to buy.”
And that’s not just in the parking lot either. At Dunfords, you’re encouraged to try out your potential purchase in the conditions you’ll actually be using them in.
“You’ve got 90 acres to go out in — woods and field and pond and sand.”
Sales Manager Phil Higgins agrees.
“Part of what they talk about, generation after generation, is the Dunfords experience. Driving around the building once means nothing.”
That’s why Dunfords of Havelock offers the opportunity to try out your vehicle in real conditions.
“The farmer can ride around the edge of the field, and the trail rider can go out through the trails in the woods. We’ve got a track that simulates a racing or sports experience. And we don’t expect a test drive to last 30 seconds or a minute. We make sure they’ve got enough gas in the tank to spend 10, 15, 20 minutes if they need to.”
Dunfords of Havelock offers competitive financing options, with the highest five year rate topping out at 5.9%. There are also special deals for members of Ducks Unlimited and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters.
Dunfords of Havelock are open six days a week, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. You can find them online at www.dunfordsofhavelock.com and on Facebook and Twitter.
Throw away your axe and keep all your fingers with The Kindling Maker
Whether you heat or cook with wood, or just enjoy sitting around a campfire, The Kindling Maker makes it easy and safe for anyone to split kindling.
The idea
Charles Tyson has been a steel fabricator for 40 years. The idea to create The Kindling Maker began years ago when he made his first foot-powered splitter.
“It was 25 pounds, and a little difficult to use, but it worked. Improving the design has always been in the back of my mind.”
Fast forward to 2013 — after numerous prototypes, Charles designed a kindling maker that would split kindling easily.
“I wanted something that anybody could use.”
His wife tested his many prototypes, and he remembers the moment of truth.
“My wife placed the firewood on The Kindling Maker, and within minutes, had a pile of kindling.”
As well as the Wall Mount Kindling Maker, Charles Tyson offers the Portable Kindling Maker. It is designed to sit on a picnic table, but can be set on any flat surface or on the ground right beside your fire. It folds down in just a few seconds to store in your RV or vehicle. (Photo: Charles Tyson)
Splitting wood using leverage
Splitting wood into kindling doesn’t require a lot of force, and the blade doesn’t need to be very sharp. “It’s a matter of physics,” explains Charles. The Kindling Maker utilizes leverage.
Safety was Charles’ primary concern when designing The Kindling Maker. He remembers a trip to his uncle’s cottage on Kushog Lake when he was 7 years old.
“I was always itching to swing that axe. My uncle showed me a scar on his knee from when he was cutting kindling and missed, bringing the force of the sharp axe blade down on his knee. That always stayed with me.”
Charles is no stranger to wood-splitting accidents. When his own kids came along and the family started camping, he hit his own fingers a few times with the hatchet.
“I thought to myself, there must be a better way.”
Charles Tyson has been a steel fabricator for 40 years. His Little Kindling Maker is easy to use, fast, and very safe. You can screw it down to a work bench, sit it on a picnic table, or set it on any flat surface or on the ground right beside your fire. (Photo: Charles Tyson)
Fun and easy to use
Instead of being at risk of injury from the traditional methods such as an axe, The Kindling Maker is easy very safe and, as Charles’ customers can attest, an innovative solution to making kindling. Many of his customers come back to purchase units for their own family and friends.
“It’s really gratifying to get that repeat business, to know that The Kindling Maker is making splitting kindling safe and easy for everyone.”
In addition to the classic “Wall Mount Kindling Maker”, there’s also a “Portable Kindling Maker”, which is great for camping, and a “Little Kindling Maker”, that works on any sturdy surface or workbench.
Relax into cottage fun with Southview Cottages
Southview Cottages offers 52 cottages, 12 RV or campsites, 50 acres of land, and over 1,400 feet of shoreline. (Photo: Southview Cottages)
Fishing is a star attraction at Southview Cottages. Owner Sandy says that Rice Lake has the best fishing in Ontario. (Photo: Southview Cottages)
Cool off on Southview's sand beach, or enjoy your air conditioned cottage. There are plenty of ways to relax in comfort. (Photo: Southview Cottages)
Southview Cottage's new play area offers plenty of fun to keep the little ones happy and occupied while you relax. (Photo: Southview Cottages)
Looking for a cottage without the commitment? Southview Cottages (875 Southview Drive, Bailieboro, 705-939-6761) offers boating, fishing, swimming, and more on the beautiful shores of Rice Lake.
Part owner Sandy Brough says that you can’t help but relax at Southview Cottages.
“Our way of life here is enjoying each moment by the water’s edge — either by a campfire or out in a boat fishing.”
Sandy’s family bought the resort in 1974, and she is part of the third generation involved in the family business. The resort has 52 cottages, 12 RV or camp sites, 50 acres of land, and over 1,400 feet of shoreline.
World-renowned fishing
Southview Cottages was founded in 1945 as a fishing camp, and Sandy says that they still get guests from all over the world who come to fish.
“The old fishermen’s tale here is that ‘there’s more fish in Rice Lake per acre than any other lake in Ontario.’ Southview is great for the anglers looking to fish for large and small mouth bass, walleye, pan fish, catfish, and carp.”
Lots to do and see by the water
In addition to top rated fishing, Southview Cottages offers a heated pool and a sandy beach for swimming, as well as a sports court and a new playground for the kids.
Guests have free use of kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards and paddle boats. There’s also a boardwalk and 30 acres of nature trails to explore. Cottages are air conditioned, with large decks and barbecues for guests to use.
Sandy says that you will spend your trip surrounded with natural beauty.
“You can expect to wake up every morning watching the sunrise as you listen to the calming sounds of water and nature. We have an extraordinary view here, that brings our customers back year after year.”
Family time, not screen time
More than anything, Sandy says that Southview Cottages is a great place to spend quality time with your family.
“In this age of technology, it’s difficult to find time to unplug and make classic memories with your family. Southview’s focus is to create an atmosphere of country cottage living, with relaxation as the key to making the most out of your vacation.”
This summer Southview Cottages is offering specials throughout the season.
Their “Catch the Southview Experience” special offers a mid-week rate for the long weekends of Victoria, Memorial, and Labour Day. For their “Catch the Family Fun” special, they are offering 25% off a week stay for the week of June 24th and August 26th.
Peterborough's Faith Dickinson received the Diana Award, presented by Prince William and Prince Harry, for her "Cuddles for Cancer" charity. (Photo: Kensington Palace)
Today (May 18), 14-year-old Faith Dickinson of Peterborough was honoured with the inaugural Diana Award, presented to her by Prince William and Prince Harry.
The awards ceremony took place at St. James’s Palace in Westminster, where Faith was among 19 other young people from Britain and around the world who received the award.
The Diana Award is a charity legacy to the belief of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, that young people have the power to change the world. The award is supported by Prince William and Prince Harry and their team at the Royal Charities Forum of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.
Princess Diana died in a car crash 20 years ago this August.
The Diana Award entry for Faith Dickinson. (Graphic: The Diana Award)
Faith, a grade nine student at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School, was honoured for her “Cuddles for Cancer” charity.
She started the charity, which provides fleece blankets for people living with cancer, when she was nine years old. The charity will mark its fifth anniversary on July 1st — the day that would have been Princess Diana’s 56th birthday.
Here’s a photo of all of the 20 recipients of The Diana Award, along with Prince William and Prince Harry:
The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry are presenting a new award on behalf of The @DianaAward at St. James's Palace today. pic.twitter.com/PYvuqgzS1z
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 18, 2017
Faith had the opportunity to speak with Prince William:
Marley's Bar & Grill in Buckhorn opens for the season this weekend with performances by Washboard Hank on Friday and Saturday night. Marley's will have live music on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer.
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, May 18 to Wednesday, May 24.
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.
Thursday, May 25 3-6pm: RC4G Rock Block Social Jam; 8pm - Peterborough Poetry Slam
Friday, May 26 9pn - Low Dérive, The Costanzas, Coach Bombay, The Corporate Life, Seyton ($6)
Saturday, May 28 National Drone Day (experimental/ambient music)
Sticks Sports Pub
500 George St. S., Peterborough
(705) 775-7845
Saturday, May 20
2-5pm - Cameron von Criegern
Sweet Bottoms Cafe
19 Colborne St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-7506
Saturday, May 20
7-10pm - Open Mic
Turtle John's Pub & Restaurant
64 John St., Port Hope
(905) 885-7200
Coming Soon
Saturday, July 1 2-5pm - Canada Day ft Garage Dog
The Venue
286 George Street North, Peterborough
(705) 876-0008
Coming Soon
Friday, May 26 A Phantom Returns ft Peter Karre fundraiser for StageCoach Peterborough ($25 or $100 VIP Ticket, available at www.peterkarrieusa.com/peterborough)
White House Hotel
173 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 741-2444
Friday, May 19
5-9pm - Northern Soul
Saturday, May 20
5-9pm - Northern Soul
Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort
1045 Settlers Line, Keene
(705) 295-4591
Coming Soon
Tuesday, June 6 7:30pm - Tuned Up Tuesdays ft Mayhemingways (no cover)
George, a muskrat who was deliberately injured and abandoned, has succumbed to his injuries. Police are now investigating the incident and seeking the public's help. (Photo: Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue)
Update (Friday, May 19)
OPP investigators have identified the three youths involved in this incident and have ruled out any criminal behaviour.
The police investigation has revealed that the local area youths had discovered the injured muskrat at the shoreline earlier in the day and taken it home where they (and a parent) attempted to contact the local animal shelter.
After having no success, and on the advice of that parent, they returned the animal back to the shoreline in a box lined with a towel, in the hopes its mother would find it and nurse it back to health.
Police are not ruling out that the injuries sustained by the muskrat are a result of a confrontation with another animal. The police have deemed the investigation complete, pending new information that would cause further police involvement.
Original story
The Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are seeking the public’s help in identifying three people suspected of deliberately injuring a muskrat, which has since died from its injuries.
On Monday (May 15) at around 7 p.m., a woman fishing on Plank Road in Gores Landing at Rice Lake noticed three teenagers exiting a car at the boat launch area, one of them carrying a “Huggies” diaper box. One of the teens placed the box near the water’s edge at Rice Lake and the teens then left the area, laughing.
When the woman investigated and opened the container, she found a muskrat, not moving and obviously injured. The woman called the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, who directed her to Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue wildlife rehabilitation centre.
Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue took the muskrat, who they named “George”, into their care. Staff determined the muskrat was suffering from serious injuries: the sides of his mouth had been cut, his teeth were broken, and he had significant damage to his left eye. They set up a crowdfunding campaign to offset the cost of veterinarian bills; to date, the campaign has raised over $3,300.
Unfortunately, on Wednesday (May 17), George succumbed to his injuries.
An x-ray of George the muskrat, who had extensive injuries. George died on May 17. (Photo: Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue)
On May 17th, the OPP Northumberland Detachment entered into an investigation of the incident. Police have provided more details about the alleged perpetrators. The three teenagers are two females and one male, all between 16 and 18 years old. They were driving a mid-sized four-door blue sedan.
Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the three teenagers in the vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to call the Cobourg OPP Detachment at 905-372-5421 or toll free 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call the Peterborough/Northumberland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-847 7 (TIPS) where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000 and not have to appear in court.
Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue will be using the funds collected through their GoFundMe campaign to pay for George’s veterinary bills as well as a detailed autopsy. His remains will be sent off to the Ontario Veterinary College located in Guelph. In honour of George and animal welfare, Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue will be building a specific rehabilitation enclosure for semi-aquatic mammals that come into their care for rehabilitation.
Update (May 18 at 8 p.m.) – Environment Canada has ended the severe thunderstorm watch for the Kawarthas region.
Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch today (May 18) for the entire Kawarthas region, including:
Apsley – Woodview – Northern Peterborough County
Fenelon Falls – Balsam Lake Park – Northern Kawartha Lakes
Lindsay – Southern Kawartha Lakes
Peterborough City – Lakefield – Southern Peterborough County
Belleville – Quinte West – Eastern Northumberland County
Cobourg – Colborne – Western Northumberland County
Bancroft – Hastings Highlands – Denbigh
Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail, and heavy rain.
The thunderstorms are expected to develop ahead of or along a cold front this afternoon or evening.
Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees, and blow large vehicles off the road. Severe thunderstorms can also produce tornadoes, as well as lightning (which kills and injures Canadians every year).
Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall.
The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.
GreenUP Staff and volunteers will be on hand to help you make veggie, annual and perennial, shrub and tree choices for your garden at the Annual Ecology Park Plant Sale this Sunday, May 21st noon to 4 p.m. (Photo: Karen Halley)
Have you visited GreenUP Ecology Park yet this season? This time of year, Ecology Park is springing alive with a host of display gardens and naturalized areas, a native plant nursery, children’s programs, the garden market, skill-building workshops, and hands-on displays.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Karen Halley, GreenUP Communications & Marketing Specialist.
GreenUP Ecology Park is an award winning, five-acre showcase of sustainable landscape ideas and resources. It is located in Peterborough’s East City at 1899 Ashburnham Drive, next to Beavermead Park, and has everything you need to be a good steward of the land in your care.
If you are looking for an ecological adventure for the whole family this long weekend, then you will want to visit Ecology Park this Sunday, May 21st from noon to 4 p.m. for the Annual Ecology Park Plant Sale.
This is GreenUP’s biggest sale of the year and the official opening of the GreenUP Ecology Park’s Garden Market. The Garden Market carries quality veggies, seedlings, and a large variety of wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees, which thrive in our region of Ontario. Planting native and locally adapted species in our gardens restores health and diversity to outdoor spaces.
In the Peterborough area, we are fortunate to have a unique variety of native plants to choose from. Did you know that this region has historically contained woodland, wetland, and prairie ecosystems? Of course, not all native plants will survive in all areas of Peterborough County. Some are suited to wet areas, woodlands, clay soils, or sandy sites.
Peterborough is situated near the edge of the Canadian Shield, which is an area that has been scoured by glaciation, with thin acidic soils underlain with a granite base. The more southern areas of Peterborough County are very different with deeper, alkaline soils underlain with limestone. Becoming familiar with your backyard soil types, and the native plants that thrive there is an enjoyable and satisfying way to build health and vitality in your yard, and to attract wildlife.
Many native and wild plants make beautiful additions to your garden and are also an important part of local ecosystems, providing habitat for wildlife and pollinators like Monarch Butterflies, as seen here at GreenUP Ecology Park. The Ecology Park Garden Market features over 150 species of native and edible plants, shrubs, and trees to select from. (Photo: Samantha Stephens)
Many native and wild plants are not only beautiful; they are also an important part of the ecosystems, providing habitat for wildlife and pollinators. Native plants foster a balanced ecosystem providing food and shelter for local birds and butterflies that depend on wild plants for survival.
Attracting wildlife also means that you are bringing important natural services to your garden. Birds and toads are natural predators who help to control pests like slugs and grubs, while butterflies and bees pollinate flowers and veggies, and also improve enjoyment and beauty in your yard.
Ecology Park carries a huge selection of native and locally adapted plants, many from locally collected seed. View our catalogue of species online at greenup.on.ca for a list of prices and descriptions of species that are available throughout the Garden Market season.
Volunteers will be helping at the Ecology Park Plant Sale with bulk leaf compost, cedar mulch, straw bales, and wood chips for sale. Remember to bring your own containers. The bulk sales are self-loading, with a 20 bucket limit per person per visit. (Photo: Karen Halley)
The GreenUP Ecology Park Plant Sale will also have native and edible trees and shrubs for sale, as well as bulk leaf compost, cedar mulch, straw bales, wood chips, and more. Remember to bring your own containers for leaf compost and cedar mulch. The bulk sales are self-loading, with a 20 bucket limit per person per visit.
The sale will feature many annuals and veggies grown by Thomas A Stewart Secondary School’s horticulture program. All tree purchases over $100 will receive a free water bag, as supported by Peterborough Utilities Group.
This year, you can also attend the free workshop, Rain Gardening 101 with GreenUP Water Programs Manager, Heather Ray. This 20-minute workshop will be offered at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.
The Children’s Garden and cedar maze are are areas of wonder and natural discovery for kids of all ages. This Sunday form noon to 4 p.m., the gardens officially open and will be set up with puppets, animal costumes, games, and interactive displays. (Photo: Karen Halley)
Visitors can also learn about GreenUP Ecology Park’s five-year revitalization fundraising plan while children enjoy the cedar maze and the Children’s Garden, which will be set up with puppets, animal costumes, games, and interactive displays.
Visit with the Peterborough Pollinators and register your garden for the 150 pollinator garden challenge. Bring a picnic and explore the park, or enjoy a delicious wood-fired C’est Chaud Pizza for lunch while you’re there.
Parking for GreenUP Ecology Park is available at the Beavermead Park parking lot via Marsdale Drive. After the Plant Sale, The Ecology Park Garden Market will be open each week on Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., until October 26th. For more information about GreenUP Ecology Park, The Garden Market, and the Annual Plant Sale, visit greenup.on.ca.
4th Line Theatre's new play "Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind" by David S. Craig tells the story of a Canadian heavy bomber pilot serving with No. 6 Group RCAF of Bomber Command during the Second World War. Pictured are the aircrew and groundcrew of No. 428 Squadron (also known as the "Ghost Squadron", one of the No. 6 Group RCAF squadrons) with their Avro Lancaster, which flew the squadron's 2000th sortie, a raid on Bremen in Germany. (Photo: Library and Archives Canada)
This July, 4th Line Theatre in Millbrook is kicking off its 26th season with the world premiere of a new historical play recognizing Canada’s greatest contributions to victory in the Second World War: No. 6 Group RCAF of Bomber Command.
Written by award-winning playwright David S. Craig, Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind tells the story of Peter Benton, a Canadian heavy bomber pilot who flew sorties over Germany during World War II (WWII).
At its peak in the early 1940s, No. 6 Group Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) comprised 15 heavy bomber squadrons that operated in Europe out of airfields in Yorkshire, England. The squadrons in No. 6 Group raided U-boat bases in France and conducted night bombing raids on industrial complexes and urban centres in Germany. In all, No. 6 Group flew 40,822 sorties and dropped 126,122 tons of bombs — and lost 814 aircraft and 4,203 airmen in the process.
“This play is an incredible tribute to the men and women who served, most of whom are no longer with us,” says 4th Line Theatre’s Managing Artistic Director Kim Blackwell. “And for their families, who work tirelessly to ensure the sacrifice is not forgotten, Bombers allows them to honour their family members.”
Playwright David S. Craig (right), who wrote “Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind”, receiving the Barbara Hamilton Memorial Award for Excellence in the Performing Arts at the 2014 Doras. (Photo: Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts)
Playwright David S. Craig, who has written 29 dramatic works that have won multiple theatre awards, has been working on Bombers for more than 30 years. In 1985, he began interviewing veterans of WWII and inviting former air crew members and women who served in the RCAF to share their stories of the war and life in Bomber Command. He is thrilled that his vision is being brought to the stage at 4th Line Theatre this summer.
“There is no other theatre in Canada where a play this epic could be staged,” Craig says. “Bombers has a large cast, epic musical numbers, and action-packed scenes of bombing runs over Europe. 4th Line is the perfect place to realize such an ambitious piece.”
RCAF No. 6 Group aircrew walking to their Handley Page Halifax bomber in October 1944. (Photo: Department of National Defence PL-3394)
Bombers will star 4th Line Theatre founder Robert Winslow, returning to the stage after a year-long hiatus, as the present-day Peter Benton. The play also stars Michael Cox as the young Peter Benton, Colin Doyle, Erin Humphry, Shaina Silver-Baird, and Deb Williams.
The ensemble cast features 30 actors playing more than 60 characters. Veteran actors include Lucas DeLuca, Kait Dueck, Rob Fortin, Matt Gilbert, Justin Hiscox, Mark Hiscox, Ken Houston, Kelsey Powell and Andrei Preda, apprentice actors include Justin Laurie and Frances Loiselle, and community volunteers include Madeleine Bryenton, Brady Carveth, Liam Davidson, Mike Davidson, Angelina Haines, Abby Hatherly, Emily Jones, Ethan King, Sarah Livingston, Emma Meinhardt, Peter Spasov, Phil Stott, and Samuelle Weatherdon.
Robert Winslow, Michael Cox, and Shaina Silver-Baird are three actors in a cast of more than 30 in “Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind”. (Supplied photos)
The creative team includes Glenn Davidson (set design), Karyn McCallum (costume design), Justin Hiscox (musical direction, original music, and arrangements), Monica Dottor (choreography), and Esther Vincent (sound design). The stage management team include: Fiona Jones, Alanna Wrenshall, and apprentice Christine Mepstead.
The staging of this play at 4th Line Theatre in 2017 — the sesquicentennial year of Canada’s Confederation — encourages us to remember this part of our history and the sacrifices that Canadians have made.
When Canada entered WWII on September 10, 1939, the RCAF was our country’s smallest military service. By the end of the war, Canada had the fourth-largest air force of the Allied powers. Out of a population of 11 million at the time, more than one million Canadian men and women served in the military during WWII, with a quarter of these serving in the RCAF — many of them with Bomber Command.
Crew members of No. 428 and No. 434 Squadrons RCAF being briefed before a night mission to Essen, Germany in October 1944. (Photo: Department of National Defence PL-33941)
Serving on a bomber crew was one of the riskiest roles for men in uniform in WWII. Typically, a seven-man crew flew night sorties in a four-engined heavy bomber like the Handley Page Halifax or the Avro Lancaster (some of which were manufactured in Ontario). Take-offs were often tense, with the aircraft roaring down the runway loaded with tons of bombs and more than 6,000 litres of highly flammable aviation gasoline.
At high altitudes, the crew faced sub-zero temperatures which sometimes froze their oxygen masks. During sorties, the bombers encountered German fighter planes patrolling the night skies over Europe as well as powerful searchlights targetting the bombers and flak batteries filling the sky with shrapnel.
If a plane was damaged it was difficult for the crew to escape and, if they managed to survive being shot down over over enemy territory, they would become prisoners of war.
“Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind” director David Ferry’s own father served in Bomber Command during the Second World War. (Supplied photo)
Indeed, that was the fate of the father of David Ferry, who is directing Bombers. The renowned and award-winning Canadian director’s father served in Bomber Command, was shot down over Europe, and spent time in a German prisoner of war camp.
While women did not serve in combat, they also played a significant role in Bomber Command. Members of the RCAF Women’s Division were stationed in England during WWII and performed important support work on the ground, such as being coding technicians, operating radios, and plotting aircraft positions. Civilian women were also essential factory workers, building the bombs and planes used during the war.
Bombers not only honours the contribution and sacrifice of the men and women of Bomber Command during WWII, but the play also asks us to reflect on the price of freedom.
VIDEO: The Avro Lancaster 1941
Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind runs from Tuesdays to Saturdays from July 4th to July 29th at the Winslow Farm (779 Zion Line, Millbrook), with an additional performance on Monday, July 24th. Previews will be held on July 4th and 5th with opening night on Thursday, July 6th.
Single tickets are $38 for adults and $32 for youth. Subscription tickets (which include one ticket to Bombers: Reaping The Whirlwind in July and one ticket to The History of Drinking in Cavan in August) are $66 for adults and $56 for youth.
Tickets can be purchased by phone at 705-932-4445, online at 4thlinetheatre.on.ca, or at 4th Line Theatre’s Box Office at 4 Tupper Street in Millbrook or at the Peterborough Museum and Archives at 300 Hunter Street E. (Museum Drive) in Peterborough.
B.O.S.S. Human Resources/Hiring Seminar – Thursday, May 25th
Matthew Savino of Savino Human Resources Partners partnered with Workforce Development Board to prepare the Recruiting for Small-to-Medium Employers User Guide.
Sign up today to participate in his hands on workshop, moderated by Matthew, and hear from a panel of Chamber members who will discuss their own experiences with hiring.
This workshop will cover best practices and tips for preparing a job description, posting, screening applicants, interviewing, checking references, on-boarding new staff, grant programs and more.
The next B.O.S.S seminar takes place on May 25 at the Lakefield Legion
Awards of Excellence Gala Committee
Time to begin planning this year’s Awards of Excellence Gala. Interested in helping out? The Committee expects to meet once or twice before summer and two or three times in the fall.
Contact the Chamber office at info@kawarthachamber.ca or 705-652-6963 if you can contribute some time.
The Chamber is looking for help planning this year’s Awards of Excellence Gala
Is Rural Education Important to You?
Voice your opinion on Ontario’s Rural Education Strategy. Complete an online short survey or, if you have more time, read the Discussion Paper and submit your answers to the questions throughout the Paper (or other ideas) via email. Closing date for both is Friday, June 9th.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce Responds to Ontario’s Proposed Labour and Employment Standards Reform
Changes would discourage investment, eliminate jobs and diminish economic opportunities in Ontario, especially among small business owners
The Kawartha Chamber, in partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has sent a letter to Premier Kathleen Wynne warning against potential changes to Ontario’s Labour Relations Act (LRA) and the Employment Standards Act (ESA), including the introduction of a $15 minimum wage. The letter is cautioning that these reforms may have unintended consequences impacting job creation and competitiveness, as well as discouraging investment in the province.
The potential reforms are coming at a time when costs for consumers and the cost of doing business is high and putting Ontario at a competitive disadvantage. Ontario has experienced slower growth in GDP and job creation than in the past, and drastic reforms to labour and employment run the risk of causing serious damage to the future prosperity of the province. Read more.
Make Your Voice Heard! OCC Spring Survey
Complete the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s (OCC) annual spring survey. This is an easy way to make your voice heard. Your survey responses directly impact the work of the OCC and directly impact what government understands about Ontario’s businesses and economy.
Help the OCC advocate for you, it will only take five minutes! Take the OCC’s Spring Survey at www.occ.ca/surveys
Jodie has been personal training for 15 years. She loves creating new workouts and continues to challenge her clients every day. It is truly her passion. It shows!
Jodie comes to you. Book conveniently online. Personal Workouts designed just for you and your needs. In group sessions or one on one. Virtually online or in the place of your choosing (home, work, park).
10 Year Anniversary Celebration at Trinkets and Treasures
Trinkets and Treasures in Lakefield is celebrating its 10th anniversary on Thursday, May 18th (Photo: Trinkets and Treasures)
Join Trinkets and Treasures on Thursday, May 18th from 6 to 8 p.m. for their 10 Year Anniversary Celebration! Drop in for goodies, drinks, special one night promotions, giveaways, door prizes, and cake.
Congratulations to Rachel and Trinkets and Treasures staff on this milestone!
Lakefield Youth Unlimited Yard Sale May 20th
Lakefield Youth Unlimited
A Yard Sale is being held at Selwyn Outreach Centre to support Lakefield Youth Unlimted on Saturday, May 20th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Donate your treasures and make a difference! Drop off items on Friday, May 19th from 2 to 8 p.m. Also needed: bake sale items, volunteers for drop off day, and volunteers for sale day.
On Friday, May 19th from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 20th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., please come out to the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) Annual Garage Sale. You never know what special treasures you may find!
The annual May long weekend garage sale continues to be one of the very largest fundraising events for LAWS. Please come out to LAWS (2887 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield) to support all of the animals that receive love and medical care at our shelter!
All money raised at this event goes directly to animal care and treatment.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum Celebrating 50 Years
Lang Pioneer Village Museum is celebrating 50 years this season! The Museum, which was established by the County of Peterborough as a centennial project opened its doors for the first time in August of 1967.
The Museum’s 50th season is set to begin on Tuesday, May 23rd. The Village will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for spring tours until Father’s Day, when the daily summer season kicks off with the 21st Annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show. Read more.
WannaCry Ransomware & MS17-010
If you’ve been watching the news over this past weekend you know that a massive “ransomware” virus has been infecting Windows computers around the globe. It has been dubbed “WannaCry”.
There was a security patch released by Microsoft in March of 2017 to the general public through Windows Updates that patched the security hole in Windows computers that this virus used to gain access. Unfortunately, some people don’t keep up to date with Windows Updates.
Let’s Get Digital has written a utility that you can use to check whether you’re vulnerable to this type of virus attack and also provides you with the ability to download the patch directly from Microsoft should you need to. Learn more by visiting www.letsgetdigital.ca/wannacry.
ReLeaf Selwyn 150 Deadline Extended
In celebration of Canada’s 150th Anniversary, Selwyn Township residents can apply to receive one of the 150 Maple Trees available.
The deadline for ReLeaf Selwyn 150 applications has been extended to Friday, May 26th.
In celebration of Canada’s 150th Anniversary, Selwyn Township residents can apply to receive one of the 150 Maple Trees available.
Only Township of Selwyn residents or community groups may apply and all maple trees must be properly planted within five metres of the public boulevard on private property or on public lands (Township permission required).
Golf Fore Care in support of Community Care is taking place Saturday, May 27th at Tamarac Golf & Country Club.
This annual fundraiser benefits seniors and people with physical challenges served by Community Care Peterborough. Shotgun start is at 8 a.m. for the 18-hole scramble format. Cost is $100.
For more information, call 705-652-8655 or 705-292-8708.
3rd Annual All-Ways Apsley Motorcycle Rendezvous Set For June 3rd
The annual All-Ways Apsley Motorcycle Rendezvous taks place on Saturday, June 3rd
Riders from all over the province come to the All-Ways Apsley Motorcycle Rendezvous to mingle, enjoy great food, and participate in games and contests. The annual event takes place on Saturday, June 3rd at the North Kawartha Community Centre (NHCC) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..
A guided tour begins and ends at the NHCC from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m. Jason Thorne, free-style motocross rider, will be on hand throughout the day with shows at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Open to all ages and admission is free!
Upcoming Events
Cruise Night at Craftworks at the Barn – May 18th
Selwyn Public Library Book Sale – Bridgenorth – May 19th
Lakefield Horticultural Society Plant Sale – May 20th
Selwyn Public Library Book Sale – Lakefield – May 20th
Selwyn Public Library Book Sale – Bridgenorth – May 20th
Spring Craft Show at the Buckhorn Community Centre – May 20th & 21st
Spring Art Show at Whetung Ojibwa Centre – May 21st
For more information about the businesses and events listed above, please visit the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism website at kawarthachamber.ca.
All photos supplied by Kawartha Chamber of Commerce except where noted.
The Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour is the biggest of its kind in Ontario, with over 50 participating bakeries. At an event at the Silver Bean Cafe launching the fifth year of the tour, Elle and Olivia sample the Goose Butter Tart from Ste. Anne's Spa and the Nanaimo Bar Butter Tart from the Magic Rolling Pin. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
What better way to celebrate Canada’s 150th than enjoying a quintessentially Canadian dessert?
This year, the Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour is getting a patriotic makeover with the new “Canadiana Collection” of butter tarts. Each bakery has been encouraged to develop a new flavour that showcases their Canadian pride.
Earlier today (May 16), the new flavours were launched to the world at an event at the Silver Bean Cafe, where the tarts were paddled in by canoe and ceremoniously handed to Stu Harrison, General Manager of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce. The flavours are available now on the Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour.
The tarts were ceremoniously paddled in by staff from the Canadian Canoe Museum, who handed them off to Stu Harrison, General Manager of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Brenda Wood, Executive Director of Kawarthas Northumberland, says that they thought a Canadiana-themed collection would inject more life into the already booming Butter Tart Tour.
“The butter tart tour has a life of it’s own, but we wanted to bring something new into it to get people energized about it, and we thought, what better way than to tie it in with Canada’s 150th.”
Bakers throughout the Kawarthas are making Canadiana theme butter tarts to celebrate Canada’s 150th. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)Geoff Kirkland of Firefly Bakery stuck to the Canadiana theme by using local products in their tarts tarts, including a tart made with Empire Cheese Curds in the crust. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Geoff Kirkland from Firefly Bakery (2281 McCracken’s Landing Road, Lakefield, 705-977-3308) used local products to capture the Canadian spirit.
“We tried to really focus on ensuring that we’re using lots of local products in the tarts. They’re not just Canadian, they’re also a celebration of what the Kawarthas has to offer.”
Firefly Bakery is offering a Maple Icewine butter tart made with wine from Kawartha Country Wines and an Apple Pie Butter tart made with Empire cheese curds.
Both are made with butter from Kawartha Dairy.
Diane Rogers of Doo Doo’s Bakery (187 County Rd. 28, Bailieboro, 705-939-1394) presented the Bailieboro Baconator, the Double Double, the Stompin Tom, made with maple whiskey.
“Those were the things that were really near and dear to my heart that were Canadian. Bacon, whiskey, and coffee.”
Diane Rogers of Doo Doo’s brought bacon to the butter tart with her Bailieboro Baconator. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Janet Healey of Baked 4U (1837 Lansdowne St. #9a, Peterborough, 705-874-1695) created four Canadiana-themed tarts.
“I love trying to pair different foods together. It just makes me excited, I love creating things.”
Janet Healey of Baked 4U made butter tarts in homage to Justin Trudeau and Rick Mercer. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Two of her tarts were homages to famous Canadians: the Trudeau and the Rick Mercer. She is hoping that she will get the chance to serve the tarts to the men who inspired them.
“I’d love it if they came to try them.”
Here are some of the many Canadiana-themed butter tarts available to try on the Butter Tart Tour:
The Cavan Blazer
Bakery: The Pastry Peddler (17 King St E, Millbrook, 705-932-7333)
This butter tart is made with caramelized apples and cinnamon cream cheese, then topped with caramel drizzle and a white chocolate maple leaf. Deanna Bell-Hall named the tart as an homage to local history and to the play put on by the 4th Line Theatre. “It’s sort of rebellious like the Cavan Blazers were.”
The Pastry Peddler created the Cavan Blazer butter tart, made with cinnamon cream cheese, caramel drizzle and a white chocolate maple leaf. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
Maple Ice Wine Butter Tart
Bakery: Firefly Bakery
This decadent tart is made with Maple Ice Wine from Kawartha Country Wines. Wine and butter tarts, need I say more?
Cheddar Apple Pie Tart
Bakery: Firefly Bakery
This butter tart is beautifully presented, with tart sliced apples and a crust that contains Empire cheese curds, which Geoff Kirkland of Firefly Bakery points out are a Canadian staple. “You can’t go to a gas station in Ontario without buying some cheese curds.”
The Goose Butter Tart
Bakery: Ste. Anne’s Spa (1009 Massey Rd., Grafton, 905-349-2493)
This tart is made with maple syrup infused with Ste. Anne’s Feathery Pear Tea, a blend of green and white tea with apple chunks, pears and daisy petals. *Gluten Free
The Ste. Anne’s Butter Tart
Bakery: Ste. Anne’s Spa
This tart contains candied rhubarb and strawberries for a tart and sweet filling. The crust is infused with rose petal extract from the spa’s own gardens. *Gluten Free
The crust of the gluten-free Ste. Anne’s Butter Tart in infused with rose petal extract. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
The Grafton Butter Tart
Bakery: Ste. Anne’s Spa
This tart contains apples caramelized with maple syrup and old goat cheddar. *Gluten Free
The Stompin’ Tom
Bakery: Doo Doo’s Bakery
This tart, made as an homage to the Canadian music legend, is made with maple whiskey.
The Bailieboro Baconator
Bakery: Doo Doo’s Bakery
This sweet and salty tart is made with the most Canadian of meats and a good quantity of maple syrup.
The Large Double Double
Bakery: Doo Doo’s Bakery
For those who can’t pass a Tim Horton’s without hitting the drive through, this tart has a beautiful coffee flavour.
The Lumberjack
Bakery: The Whistle Stop (141 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-740-2036)
Make a fashion statement with your butter tart with the Lumberjack. This tart is made with Grandma O’Reilly’s traditional recipe, but the top is patterned with plaid.
Love plaid? The Whistle Stop’s Lumberjack butter tart is a Canadian fashion statement in a dessert. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
The S’more Butter Tart
Bakery: The Dutch Oven (7 King St. W., Cobourg, 905-372-2263)
With a graham cracker crust, butter tart filling, dark chocolate ganache and a toasted marshmallow on each tart, The Dutch Oven has created a tart that tastes like the most decadent campfire fare.
The Marie Dressler
Bakery: The Dutch Oven
Made to honour the famous Cobourg-born actress, this tart features strawberries mashed with Canadian Ice Wine, cream cheese and butter tart filling, then topped with white chocolate ganache.
The Dutch Oven in Cobourg offers both The S’more Butter Tart, a decadent version of the famous campfire treat, and The Marie Dressler, a strawberry tart made to honour the famous Cobourg-born actress. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
The Nanaimo Bar Butter Tart
Bakery: The Magic Rolling Pin (302 King St., Peterborough, 705-745-6556)
This tart is the love child of a butter tart and a nanaimo bar, topped with custard icing and a drizzle of chocolate.
These traditional tarts are made according to Mrs. Waldron’s recipe. It honours the role of Canadian moms like Mrs. Waldron in our history.
Mrs. Waldron’s Butter Tart from Quaker Oats Farm are traditional tarts made according to Mrs. Waldron’s recipe. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
The Rick Mercer
Bakery: Baked4U
Baker Janet Healey Googled Rick Mercer’s favourite treat to make this tart honouring one of her favourite Canadian television personalities. Apparently he enjoys Tunnock’s caramel bars.
The Trudeau
Bakery: Baked4U
What butter tart would Justin Trudeau eat? Janet Healey of Baked4U is betting he’d choose something as healthy as possible. This butter tart combines nuts, apples, raisins and coconut with butter tart filling.
The Crosswind
Bakery: Baked4U
This tart is made with butter tart filling and a decadent layer of cheesecake made with locally produced Crosswind Farm goat cheese.
The Cortland
Bakery: Baked4U
This tart combines apple pie filling with butter tart filling for a tart that might be the ultimate comfort food.
Canadian Farmhouse Butter Tart
Bakery: South Pond Farms (1020 Gray Rd., Pontypool, 705-277-1649)
This tart is traditional and elegant, made with honey and maple syrup from South Pond Farms.
The Buckwheat
Bakery: South Pond Farms
Maple syrup, Square Nail bacon and Crosswind Farms chèvre come together in this tart envisioned by Chef Kevin McKenna. *Gluten Free
South Pond Farms combined bacon and fresh chèvre in their gluten-free tarts. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW)
The Beaver Dam Tart
Bakery: The Kawartha Buttertart Factory (895 Water St., Warsaw, 705-313-4190)
Baker Cathy Smith reimagined a haystack cookie as a beaver dam. “We sit right on the beautiful Indian River, so we see lots of these out there.” She put it on top of one of her decadent original butter tarts for a Canadiana treat.
The Coffee Crisp
Bakery: The Kawartha Buttertart Factory
Coffee Crisp bars are only available in Canada, and this tart features crumbly coffee crisp over a classic Kawartha Buttertart Factory tart.
The Canada 1-5-0
Bakery: The Kawartha Buttertart Factory
A plain butter tart with red and white Canada flag notions and a drizzle of dark chocolate. Because eating butter tarts is a great way to showcase your national pride.
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