Josh and Ana Mourtzanos with their children and "Caleb the Honda," the family's Honda Odyssey minivan they donated to the Bancroft Community Transit (BCT) in December 2025 before the family moved out of the country. The non-profit rural transportation organization says the family's generous donation has made a huge difference as BCT continues to fundraise to replace several aging vehicles. (Photo courtesy of BCT)
It took Gwen Coish more than a month to find the right words when she took to Facebook to express her gratitude after a local family donated their Honda Odyssey minivan to Bancroft Community Transit (BCT).
The donated vehicle — lovingly named “Caleb the Honda” by the family — is not only supporting the work of the non-profit organization, but has also restored hope.
“It was really hard for me to just form any words,” says Coish, who is BCT’s director of operations. “It’s hard to express the thankfulness that we felt, and that I actually still feel in my heart that this donation has given us reprieve — a bridge of sorts — as we try to raise enough money to buy more vehicles.”
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BCT provides door-to-door transportation services using volunteer drivers. Founded in 2001, BCT’s original mandate was to provide non-urgent medical transit though, after years of evolution, the organization has also been operating a public transit system for North Hastings since 2017.
“At BCT, our focus has always been just to quietly transport people to their appointments. When we took on public transit, it really forced us out into the community so that people know who we are now,” Coish says. “As we try to continue the work, we need to continue to offer a connection to our local businesses to decrease the sense of isolation that people feel. Helping our seniors go out and about, meeting with their friends, having lunch, et cetera — all of that is part of our mission now.”
Coish has been with the organization since 2009 and says she has never seen BCT face the challenges they currently do after losing essential operational funding.
“I really haven’t experienced this wall that we’re up against — looking for funding, trying to fundraise, trying to replace vehicles,” she says. “There’s just a lack of funding for transportation and a lack of understanding on the part of our government partners as to what rural transportation is.”
In summer 2025, Bancroft Community Transit (BCT) launched the “Drive 4 Change” fundraising campaign with the goal of raising enough money to replace and upgrade their accessible vehicle fleet. “Buddy buckets” collecting spare change can be found at Wattle & Daub, the organization’s social enterprise café, as well as in other businesses across Bancroft. (Photo courtesy of BCT)
BCT currently operates with seven vehicles and, with the exception of one, they all need to be replaced. Coish says replacing an accessible van could cost in excess of $140,000.
“They’re all high mileage and their breakdowns are costly repairs, so it’s just been really taxing,” she says. “Last year along, we spent close to $20,000 in vehicle repairs. We can’t continue that.”
That’s why last summer, BCT launched the “Drive 4 Change” fundraising campaign with the goal of raising enough money to replace the vehicles. When Coish’s nephew Josh Mourtzanos and his wife Ana donated their family vehicle to the organization in December 2025, it meant one less vehicle to replace.
“Our mechanics said it’s in great shape, so we were very fortunate and very happy to hear that and know people were going to be safe. Safety is important but it’s also a comfortable vehicle to ride in,” Coish says. “It represents a lot of what we do in bringing hope and happiness and health and we’re caring for people. Everything is personified through this van, so it’s been an amazing addition.”
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As for the Mourtzanos family, Josh says that when he got a job opportunity that required moving to North Carolina from Wilberforce, the family hoped they would be able to afford to give their minivan away.
When the family was at Wattle & Daub, BCT’s social enterprise café in Bancroft, they decided to give Caleb a second life doing good for the community by donating it to BCT.
“What they’re doing there is really cool and a huge help to people that can’t get around,” Josh says. “I’m very grateful that it panned out the way that it did and really thankful to see that the vehicle is still able to help people out and also stay in the community, because we loved it out there.”
One of the volunteer drivers for Bancroft Community Transit (BCT) waves from “Caleb the Honda” on its first day of operation after the vehicle was donated to the non-profit organization by the Mourtzanos family. The donation of the minivan not only supports the organization’s transportation services, but it has given hope to BCT as it facing challenges to replace its aging vehicles. (Photo courtesy of BCT)
“I think it says a lot about who they are and their compassion for society and for our community,” Coish says of the Mourtzanos family. “The gift that they’ve given is going to make a difference for so many people — for seniors and individuals to be able to go to medical appointments that will improve their life — so it really does speak volumes for the heart of this family that have given us this gift.”
Even beyond the difference the donation makes to BCT’s financial burden, Coish says it has given hope to the organization during an otherwise challenging time.
“This young couple who selflessly donated this van so that we could continue our work — it really restored my belief that there’s more good than bad during this moment in time. As we continue to fundraise to try to purchase an accessible van, it’s changed my focus to show the positives in all that we do. We need to remember the good and I think Josh and Ana restored that part of me.”
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Coish adds the family’s donation is “more than just a gift of a vehicle.”
“They renewed our sense of purpose so that we can continue to fight for all the residents in North Hastings. It just reminds me that it takes a village, and we are so grateful for this donation.”
Organizers, sponsors, and some of the 60 nominees for the second annual Luminary Awards for Women in Business during a nominee announcement at the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce offices on February 11, 2026. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce announced the nominees for the second annual Luminary Awards for Women in Business during an event at the chamber’s offices on Wednesday (February 11).
The Luminary Awards are intended to celebrate the valuable contributions of women in the local business community, including those named in leadership positions as well as women who lead from behind the scenes.
First launched by the chamber in September 2024 with five categories, the awards were expanded for 2026 with two new categories: Building Belonging and Community Catalyst.
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A total of 60 women have been nominated in seven award categories, with some nominated in multiple categories for a total of 71 nominations: Barrier Buster – Employee (9 nominees), Community Catalyst (19 nominees), One to Watch – Employee (6 nominees), Building Belonging (7 nominees), Trailblazer – Entrepreneur (11 nominees), Emerging Entrepreneur (8 nominees), and Legacy (11 nominees).
The names of the nominees for the 2026 awards in each category are listed below in alphabetical order by surname.
The winners will be announced at an awards luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 7 in the Great Hall at Champlain College at Trent University. Early bird tickets will be available to purchase on March 3 at www.luminaryawards.ca.
Last year’s sold-out inaugural celebration drew more than 200 attendees and honoured five inspiring recipients: Sheena Howard, Jenisha Sanjit Arora, Rachel Stark, Tiffany Arcari, and Jeannine Taylor.
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Barrier Buster – Employee
Celebrating the achievements of a remarkable woman who has excelled in her field/place of employment, embraced new ideas, technologies or ways of working, and demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and perseverance when faced with adversity.
Jane Bischoff
Kayley Duggan
Ashley Flynn
Marsha Gaulton
Jordan Lyall
Nour Mazloum
Bridget McCluckie
Tori Silvera
Stephanie Wilson
Community Catalyst
Celebrating a woman whose leadership, collaboration, and vision have sparked positive change in the community. A Community Catalyst brings people together, builds partnerships, and drives meaningful progress on local priorities. Nominees can be paid staff or volunteers of a not-for-profit organization, or be an employee or owner of a business or enterprise.
Chelsey Carberry
Ashley Collins
Emma Featherstone
Michelle Ferreri
Sheridan Graham
Betty Halman-Plumley
Dana Hetherton
Tonya Kraan
Nour Mazloum
Kat McCartie
Amy Muir
Rebecca O’Rourke
Marcia Steeves
Meryn Steeves
Rosalea Terry
Lois Tuffin
Ashley Woollacott
Susan Zambonin
Abby Zotz
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One to Watch – Employee
Future leader known for innovative, meaningful contributions to their workplace, proven professional success, and outstanding potential for the future. Nominee may hold entry- to mid-level management positions in their workplace.
Allison Adam
Bethan Bates
Amanda Bedford
Lindsey Brodie
Michelle Nguyen
Rosalea Terry
Building Belonging
Celebrating a woman whose inclusive leadership and equity-driven innovation have reshaped how business is done—demonstrating that building for belonging is not just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic advantage. Nominees may focus on workplace culture, employee experience, and/or customer-facing innovation.
Mackenzie Annis
Marsha Gaulton
Akshana Katoch
Jennifer Lawson
Peggy Shaughnessy
Danielle Turpin
Patricia Wilson
Trailblazer – Entrepreneur
Celebrating a business owner who has created innovation and success through her leadership, vision, courage, and commitment.
Winter Barringer
Kinjal Shukla Clement
Lisa Couture
Leanne Crump
Ashley Flynn
Marsha Gaulton
Richa Grover
Catherine Hanrahan
Tracy Minnema
Rebecca O’Rourke
Danielle Turpin
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Emerging Entrepreneur
A business owner engaged in a new, successful, innovative, and inspiring business venture that shows outstanding potential for the future. Nominee must have been in business for a minimum of two years and no more than five years.
Kara Ainsworth
Ashley Flynn
Marsha Gaulton
Chasley Keepfer
Karen Kerr
Erin Shannon
Elena Thomas
Ashley Woollacott
Legacy
She has spent her successful business career inspiring others and giving back to her community. She strives for business excellence, and through realizing her vision, the nominee has provided opportunities for others for employment, growth, and philanthropy.
Judy Byrne
Monika Carmichael
Betty Halman-Plumley
Dr. Kristy Hiltz
Vanessa Oake Hogan
Dr. Jenny Ingram
Jenni Johnston
Cathy Olley
Anne Ryan
Susan Tung
Wendy Kelly
kawarthaNOW is proud to be the presenting media sponsor of the Luminary Awards.
The original version of this story has been updated to correct the number of nominees and nominations.
Community Futures Peterborough has announced a nine-part Entrepreneurship 101 workshop series for spring 2026, including two new workshops on SEO and e-commerce and employer obligations. (Photo: Community Futures Peterborough)
Community Futures Peterborough is expanding its free Entrepreneurship 101 workshop series this spring, with two brand new workshops in response to demand from local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Taking place over the lunch hour on Wednesdays from March to May, the nine-part series is designed for entrepreneurs at all stages of their business journey, from those exploring a business idea to established owners looking to grow their business or sharpen their entrepreneurial skill set.
After first launching the series with four workshops last February, Community Futures Peterborough expanded the series last fall with seven workshops that supported more than 120 entrepreneurs and small business owners.
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That was followed by a three-part condensed series in Peterborough County this year, with the final workshop in that series, “Funding and Cash Flow” with Braden Clark, taking place at Lakefield’s Marshland Centre the morning of Monday, February 23.
According to Community Futures Peterborough, the Entrepreneurship 101 series has grown quickly as more businesses across the region seek advisory and lending support. Since last April, the organization’s Business Advisory Centre has supported more than 340 businesses with over 440 in-depth one-on-one consultations.
The growing interest in business advisory services along with feedback from past workshop participants had led to a partnership with Scotiabank that will see two new workshops added to the spring series.
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“Appear First – Search Engine Optimization & E-Commerce” on April 8, delivered by e-commerce and Shopify expert Brendan Quigley, will introduce participants to building an online presence, improving search visibility, and boosting online sales.
“Employer Essentials – Understanding Your Obligations as an Employer” on April 22, delivered by staff of the Office of the Employer Advisor and Service Canada, will help business owners better understand their responsibilities when hiring staff.
In addition to these two new workshops, the other seven workshops in the spring series are “Spark Tank – Brainstorm and Validate Business Ideas” on March 4, “Launch Pad – Business Planning” on March 11, “Brand Lab – Marketing and Branding” on March 25, “Funding Fuel – Explore Funding and Financing” on April 1, “Staff Smart – Hiring Your First Employee” on April 15, “Money Map – Cash Flow Forecasting” on April 29, and “Protect It – Intellectual Property for Small Businesses” on May 6.
All the workshops will be held in the lower-level boardroom at the Venture North building at 270 George Street North in downtown Peterborough. There is no cost to participate, but space is limited and early registration is encouraged at cfpeterborough.ca.
Whether you’re coupled up, going out with the gals or guys, or celebrating being single this Valentine’s Day, you can enjoy a little bit of late-night spice courtesy of Peterborough AIDS Resource Network (PARN).
From 7 p.m. until midnight on Saturday (February 14), the organization will be hosting the Electric City Sex & Wellness Expo at the Healthy Planet Arena in Peterborough.
Hosted in partnership with Lynda’s Love Lace & Lingerie, the pay-what-you-can event is oriented towards adults interested in sexual health and wellness.
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“Being a community service organization, we’ve been doing a lot of great stuff for a long time, so this is a great opportunity for the organization to show it’s evolved and connect with the broader audience on the matters that matter for folks today,” says PARN executive director Dane Record. “It’s about getting back out to the community to have some really engaging conversations, but conversations in a far different style than folks may be accustomed to.”
Record says bringing sex-positive spaces to the community is “vital” in today’s landscape, given the amount of information — and misinformation — people of all ages have access to.
“With tech being what it is, and we can’t shy away from AI, we want to make sure that when folks are coming through and connecting with PARN and other events and folks, they’re receiving the factual information, the updates, and (are learning) what’s actually going on in regard to sexual health, and just being able to have a happy and healthy sexual experience,” he says.
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The theme of the Electric City Sex & Wellness Expo is “Love Positive Women,” a campaign from the Women and HIV/AIDS Initiative (WHAI) which collaborates with PARN and other organizations to supports cis and trans women, two-spirit, and non-binary people in Ontario. The campaign happens every year between February 1 and 14 to raise awareness about women and girls living with HIV.
“While there’s been a great amount of tech and tool updates, there’s still no cure (for HIV),” Record says. “Even though it’s far more manageable today that it was when the organization started back in 1990, there is an impact without being on treatment, being able to achieve a suppressed viral load, and continuing with activities and behaviours that may pose a vulnerable risk.”
“We want to make sure that folks are able to be informed and continue doing what they’re doing safely.”
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At the expo, there will be vendor booths allowing drop-in visitors to browse and purchase toys, lingerie, and other intimacy, self-care, and wellness products. There will be expert-led workshops and opportunities to learn from and connect with community organizations including PARN, Acceptance Clinic, the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, and more.
“The important thing is that the patrons coming in are coming in with a curiosity, and they’re coming out learning even one other piece of information that they can utilize for themselves and also share with their respective community,” says Record.
Record promises the expo will be one full of “edutainment,” including a DJ spinning through the night, performers, and education sessions with “real and raw conversations.”
“Folks can come in, learn a thing or two about who we are and what we do, but more so they will be in a healthier, common, fun, sex-positive space where they can actually and absolutely be themselves and be authentic in their own skin and their own space,” Record says.
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Though La Mesita will be on site cooking up tacos, Record assures there will be no alcohol served or sold at the expo.
“We just want folks to feel welcome all the way through,” he says. “One doesn’t need to be inebriated to have a good time. It’s also a prime opportunity to remove a potential trigger in doing this type of work.”
Hoping to make the event a recurring one, Record says PARN is already underway planning for 2027 and hopes to receive lots of feedback following this year’s event.
“We want the community to feel meaningfully included and highly valuable, and we want them to let us know what they want. Any way that we can involve the broader community, we are all for it.” he says. “And when we can partner with other organizations to lift all the boats, it means that we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing as a community. So, we’re looking forward and certainly looking ahead.”
Three Oshawa teens are facing multiple charges after a violent carjacking in Peterborough late Sunday night (February 8).
At around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, Peterborough police responded to a call in the Middlefield Road and Milford Drive area.
After arriving, officers learned the owner of the vehicle had just arrived home when another vehicle with three male teens stopped at the end of her driveway.
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Two of the teens got out and demanded the victim turn over her keys. When the woman attempted to flee into her house, the teens followed her and forced the keys from her hand.
Both vehicles then fled the area, heading toward Highway 115.
Officers received word that the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) had attempted to stop the vehicles near Highway 7A, but both vehicles fled police.
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A short time later, OPP advised police had located and stopped the two vehicles in the Highway 401 westbound lanes near Port Hope and the three suspects had been taken into custody.
One 18-year-old and two 19-year-olds, all of Oshawa, have each been charged with robbery with violence, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and flight from a peace officer.
The three accused men were held in custody for a court appearance on Monday (February 9).
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the Kawarthas region for snow on Tuesday (February 10).
The special weather statement, which was originally in effect for northern Peterborough County, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands, has been expanded to include southern Peterborough County.
An area of moderate to heavy snow will pass through portions of northeastern and southern Ontario on Tuesday.
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Snowfall amounts of 5 to 10 cm are expected, with reduced visibility at times in heavy snow.
The snow will begin Tuesday morning and last through the afternoon, and possibly into the evening for areas farther east.
Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Allow extra time for travel.
The original version of this story has been updated with the latest forecast from Environment Canada.
encoreNOW for February 9, 2026 features (from left to right, top and bottom) "The Psychic" at Lindsay Little Theatre, Miss Emily at The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, Russell deCarle at the Stone Hall Sessions in Havelock, Ladom Ensemble at Performing Arts Lakefield, Peterborough Performs VI at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough, and the opening event of New Stages Theatre's Brand New Stages festival at The Theatre On King in Peterborough. (kawarthaNOW collage)
encoreNOW is a bi-weekly column by Paul Rellinger where he features upcoming music, theatre, film, and performing arts events and news from across the Kawarthas.
This week, Paul highlights Lindsay Little Theatre’s staging of The Psychic, Miss Emily at the Canadian Canoe Museum, Russell deCarle at Havelock’s Stone Hall, Performing Arts Lakefield’s welcoming of Ladom Ensemble, the return of the Peterborough Performs benefit concert for United Way Peterborough & District to Showplace, and the opening of New Stages Theatre’s Brand New Stages festival in downtown Peterborough.
Lindsay Little Theatre delivers a little murder with its mystery
Directed by Glenn Ottaway, the Lindsay Little Theatre production of “The Psychic” stars (left to right, top and bottom) William J McGinn as Adam, Tarina Koty as Laura, Reilly Smith as Roy, Carolyn MacLean as Rita, Ian MacLean as Johnny, and Anthony Lee as Norris. (kawarthaNOW collage of Lindsay Little Theatre photos)
Who doesn’t like a good mystery? Toss in a murder for good measure and you’re really onto something.
Lindsay Little Theatre is banking on our hankering for a fun whodunit, bringing Sam Bobrick’s The Psychic to its George Street venue.
Opening this Friday (February 13), Bobrick’s play follows the chaotic life of Adam Webster, a down-on-his-luck writer who, in desperation to pay his rent, hangs a sign in his apartment window that advertises psychic reading for $25.
That sign draws the interest of a variety of characters — the lovely and conflicted Laura Benson and her shady husband Roy, Roy’s mistress Rita Malone, a gangster named Johnny Bubbles, and ace detective Norris Coslow all take notice. What follows are series of twists that serve to entangle Adam in a mystery with murder at its centre.
Directed by Glenn Ottaway, the Lindsay Little Theatre production stars William J McGinn as Adam, Tarina Koty as Laura, Reilly Smith as Roy, Carolyn MacLean as Rita, Ian MacLean as Johnny, and Anthony Lee as Norris.
The Psychic premiered in March 2010 at the Falcon Theatre in Burbank, California. One of more than 40 plays penned by Chicago-born Bobrick, The Psychic won him the 2011 Mystery Writers of America Edgar Allen Poe Award for Best Play. No one-trick pony, Bobrick has numerous television writing credits, created the hit teen series Saved By The Bell and, as a songwriter, seen his music recorded by some heavyweights, Elvis Presley among them.
For more than 50 years, Lindsay Little Theatre has brought season after season of theatrical treats to the town. Volunteer-run, the not-for-profit company has provided a vital stage for local talent and a wholly affordable night out for its dedicated audience.
Curtain for The Psychic is 7 p.m. on February 13, 14, 20 and 21, with 2 p.m. matinee performances on February 15 and 22. Tickets cost $25 and are available at www.lindsaylittletheatre.com.
Blues sensation Miss Emily Canadian Canoe Museum-bound
VIDEO: “Glory” – Miss Emily
When The Canadian Canoe Museum announced its inaugural Music in the Museum concert series last March, executive director Carolyn Hyslop described it as “an extension” of the museum’s bid to better position itself as “a community hub — an energetic space where people can connect, learn, share stories and make memories.”
Last May, the museum welcomed Juno Award-winning roots musician Old Man Luedecke, followed, in December, by the indie folk group Great Lake Swimmers. Both concerts were held in the museum’s atrium, a lovely space that is home to the Silver Bean Café.
Confident it’s on to a good thing, the museum is bringing the series back for 2026, with Miss Emily headlining a Valentine’s Day concert this Saturday (February 14).
The Kingston-based musician is a tour de force on the Canadian blues landscape. Resumé highlights are many, including three Maple Blues Awards as Female Vocalist of the Year, and a 2021 Juno nomination for Blues Album of the Year for Live At The Isabel.
Arriving in Peterborough on the heels of the release of her latest album, The Medicine produced by Grammy winner Colin Linden, Miss Emily’s powerful voice will no doubt soar in the acoustics-friendly atrium space where she’ll be joined by multi-instrumentalist Benni Vander. Together, they’ll deliver a mix of originals and covers “celebrating love in all its forms” on Cupid’s big day.
Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. concert cost $50 and are available at canoemuseum.ca.
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That’s what the doctor ordered for the mood I’m in
Russell deCarle kicks off Havelock’s Stone Hall Session series
VIDEO: “Tanqueray” – Russell deCarle
Once home to a beloved annual showcase of country music, Havelock remains well worth a visit for local live music fans courtesy of Pineapple Productions’ Stone Hall Sessions.
On Sunday, February 22, former Prairie Oyster frontman Russell deCarle will headline at Stone Hall, kicking off a 10-concert series continuing into late November with performances by the likes of Al Lerman, Washboard Hank and Reverend Ken, Zachary Lucky, and Rick Fines, to name a few.
deCarle is yet another great example of a Canadian musician who has fashioned a very active and successful career after enjoying years of success with a band. More than 50 years ago, the singer and then bass player hooked up with guitarists Keith Glass and Dennis Delorme to form Prairie Oyster, a union that lasted four years before each went their separate ways.
Reunited in 1982 with the addition of fiddler John Allen, keyboardist Joan Besen, and drummer Bruce Moffat, Prairie Oyster subsequently hit its stride commercially, recording eight albums that spawned 10 hit singles, and collecting six Juno Awards and 11 Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs) on its way to its 2008 induction into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
Celebrated for his rich baritone voice, masterful songwriting, and reverence for classic country, swing and honky-tonk music, deCarle is no stranger to these parts, his previous appearances consistently selling out. That should tell us something of what to expect on February 22.
Tickets to deCarle’s 2 p.m. concert cost $20 in advance or $30 (cash only) at the door. A better deal, though, is the $150 season pass. Advance tickets and season passes are available at at universe.com/shs0222.
Performing Arts Lakefield welcomes Ladom Ensemble quartet
VIDEO: ” Prokofiev – Dance of the Knights” – Ladom Ensemble
Since its inception in 1981, Performing Arts Lakefield has made a lovely year-after-year habit of presenting very talented musical, theatrical, comedic, and dance artists that we typically might not be exposed to.
That tradition will continue on Sunday, February 22 when Ladom Ensemble performs at Lakefield United Church, Performing Arts Lakefield’s home since 2024 after years at Lakefield College School.
Ladom Ensemble was founded close to 20 years ago by a pair of music students at the University of Toronto. It grew into a quartet of classically trained musicians Pouya Hamidi (one of the two founders), percussionist Adam Campbell, accordionist Michael Bridge, and cellist Beth Silver.
A mini-orchestra of sorts, Ladom Ensemble performs a brand of acoustic fusion drawn from western classical, klezmer, rock, tango, east coast, traditional and classical Persian influences. The quartet has released three albums, with 2025’s Sofreh Tisch the latest, and continues to perform across Canada. Their Lakefield appearance marks Performing Arts Lakefield’s third concert of its four-show 2025-26 season.
General admission tickets to Ladom Ensemble’s 3 p.m. concert are $40 ($15 for students) and are available online at www.performingartslakefield.org, in person at Happenstance Books and Yarns in downtown Lakefield, or at the door.
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Peterborough Performs VI raising vital dollars for the unhoused
VIDEO: “Message of Love” – Rick & Gailie’s Peterborough All-Star Band (2023)
When it comes to getting bang for your entertainment buck, Peterborough Performs has proven to have few peers on the local cultural landscape.
Since its debut in March 2020, the local music showcase has raised close to $150,000 for United Way-supported shelters and agencies providing relief for the unhoused. Now all roads are leading to the sixth coming of the fundraiser, with Peterborough Performs VI: Musicians United To End Homelessness returning to Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough on Thursday, February 26 from 7 to 11 p.m.
As has been the case since day one, the abundant talent of local musicians remains at the heart of the event, with 14 acts booked to perform on two stages simultaneously — the David Goyette Stage in the Erica Cherney Theatre and the much more intimate Cogeco Studio on the venue’s lower level. The general admission ticket gives attendees the flexibility to enjoy performances in both rooms at their leisure, or stay put in either room. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
On the main stage, emceed by Ella Bates, Rick and Gailie’s Peterborough All-Star Band will kick things off, followed, in order, by The Hippie Chicks and Company, VANCAMP, The Detention Club, The Weber Brothers Band, and Sarah Jayne Riley.
Meanwhile, in the lounge, Mark Beatty will be followed by Georgia Rose, Tom Eastland, Alyssa Morrissey and Kyler Tapscott, Jacques Graveline, Lagan & Derelict, and Dan Hick and Lucy Ferrill, before Maggie Sabyan and Mike McCurdy close things out.
Of note, a virtual auction featuring close to 50 items up for grabs goes live February 12 at www.uwpeterborough.ca and closes the night of the event, which is again supported by a number of sponsors, kawarthaNOW among them as returning digital media sponsor.
Tickets cost $50, but the better deal is two tickets for $40. Visit www.showplace.org to order or drop by the Showplace box office.
Double bill opens New Stages Peterborough’s third annual Brand New Stages Festival
New Stages Peterborough’s third annual Brand New Stages Festival opens on February 25, 2026 with a double bill of staged readings at The Theatre On King in downtown Peterborough, including Ryan Pepper’s “I Started Collecting Teacups After Grandma Died” followed by “Are We Sleeping?” by Peterborough’s own Esther Vincent. (kawarthaNOW collage of photos supplied by New Stages)
What was floated as a trial balloon in 2024 has blossomed into a regular offering courtesy of New Stages Theatre Peterborough.
Under the leadership of artistic director Mark Wallace, the first Brand New Stages Festival was held that year and proved to be a big hit with audiences. Now the festival is back for a third year from February 24 to March 1 at two downtown Peterborough venues, with five performances at The Theatre On King (TTOK) and three mainstage shows at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre.
The festival opens Tuesday, February 24 with a double bill at TTOK featuring staged readings of Ryan Pepper’s I Started Collecting Teacups After Grandma Died, followed by Are We Sleeping?, written and directed by Peterborough’s own Esther Vincent.
Billed as “an interprovincial love affair told through poetic dialogue, friendly banter and the occasional croaking of frogs,” Ryan Pepper’s play starts as an ode to family heirlooms that becomes a remembrance of a great romance with a Quebec separatist. Directed by Mark Wallace, the performance stars Colin Doyle and Andy Trithardt.
Vincent’s script, meanwhile, centres around Florence (Dianne Latchford), a renowned botanist who no longer remembers her life’s work or recognizes her children. While siblings Andrew and Maggie (Mark Wallace and Megan Murphy) navigate the heartbreaking realities of caregiving, Florence drifts between clarity and confusion of dementia. When all is said and done, the play asks its audience “to find grace in small kindnesses and love where memories falter.”
In addition to the opening double-bill, other TTOK events include StorySLAM hosted by Megan Murphy at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, Kennel by Katherine Cullen at 7 p.m. on Friday, February 27, and Picture Day by Madeleine Brown on Saturday, February 28.
The three mainstage shows at the Market Hall include staged readings of Michele Rimi and Micheal St. John Smith’s The Cull at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 26 and 12 Dinners by Steve Ross on Sunday, March 1 and, for the kids and the young at heart, M. John Kennedy’s performance of Munsch Goes Wild at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 1.
The full seven-event festival schedule and ticket links are available at www.newstages.ca/
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Encore
At the beautifully done Celebration of Life for Ann Farquharson held in late November at Market Hall, most were no doubt moved by the powerful singing voice of Carling Stephen. Further, I’m betting more than a few weren’t all that familiar with her talent, if at all, but left wishing they had made it their business to catch her performing before then. Well, that opportunity is afforded each and every Thursday night at the Black Horse, where she pairs up with Rob Phillips for the pub’s long-running Jazz and Blues Night. The duo takes to the stage February 12, 19, and 26. If you’ve never been, make it a point to drop in. Trust me — you won’t be anywhere near disappointed.
Trent Valley Archives Theatre is holding auditions later this month for The Kid From Simcoe Street, its latest fundraising history play which will have its world premiere in June at Market Hall. Auditions will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on February 23 and 24 in Room 5 at Activity Haven Seniors Centre, 180 Barnardo Avenue. The production is being directed by Drew Mills. No preparation is required, but hopefuls should come ready to read. Walk-ins are welcome, but those planning to give it their best shot are encouraged to register in advance at forms.gle/C8ZWk47s28FKPSAu9.
The Haliburton Highlands detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is located at 12598 Highway 35 in Minden. (Photo: OPP)
High school students in Haliburton County who are interested in pursuing a career in policing can take part in an upcoming youth in policing academy.
The Haliburton Highlands detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is hosting a five-week program beginning on March 25 for students in Grades 9 to 12 who reside in the Haliburton Highlands area.
“If you’re considering a future in policing or simply want to learn more about the profession and what the OPP has to offer, this academy could be the perfect opportunity for you,” reads a media release from Haliburton Highlands OPP.
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According to the OPP, participants in the interactive program will gain “hands-on insight” into a variety of policing areas, including general patrol duties, major criminal investigations, canine services, emergency response, forensic identification, and impaired driving investigations
The youth in policing academy will be hosted at the Haliburton Highlands OPP detachment at 12598 Highway 35 in Minden on Wednesday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. from March 25 until April 29.
Applications forms are available at the Haliburton Highlands OPP Detachment or at the front desk of Haliburton Highlands Secondary School (5358 Haliburton County Road 21, Haliburton) and can be submitted at either location. The application deadline is March 9 and successful applicants will be notified by email.
Brody Klages is the Electrical Team Lead at Peterborough's Quickmill, which has grown into one of the world's leading manufacturers of large-scale machining centers over the past 40 years. With the U.S. currently its most important export market, Quickmill is pursuing a diversified growth strategy and has been invited by the federal government to join a select group of Canadian export-ready companies for the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico from February 15 to 20, 2026. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
For many Canadian manufacturers, the disruptions to traditional trade relationships have contributed to a year filled with turbulence, volatility, and economic uncertainty.
For Peterborough’s Quickmill, which has grown into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of large-scale machining centers over the past 40 years, the disruptions pose a challenge because the U.S. is their most important export market.
To meet the challenge, Quickmill is pursuing a diversified growth strategy that has already seen the company deliver solutions for a wide range of existing customers while simultaneously expanding into new markets. That includes Quickmill being one of a select group of Canadian export-ready companies chosen by the federal government to join the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico in February.
With Mexico a global hub for advanced manufacturing, there is plenty of potential for Quickmill’s gantry-style CNC machines, which are crafted in Peterborough for demanding and repetitive work across industries including oil and gas, aerospace, mining, HVAC, defence, and more.
“While always mindful of geopolitics, Quickmill and our customers are focused on business,” says Quickmill President and CEO Chad Watson. “We are reinforcing our value proposition with core customers, finding new applications for our machines, introducing cutting-edge technology, and developing new export markets.”
Maintaining strong U.S. customer relationships
Quickmill President and CEO Chad Watson says the Peterborough-based manufacturer is pursuing a diversified growth strategy that not only includes reinforcing its value proposition with core customers, including those in the U.S., but finding new applications for its machines, introducing cutting-edge technology, and developing new export markets including Mexico. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
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Although Quickmill is actively exploring new markets like Mexico and the Middle East, the company continues to provide the U.S. market with the high-quality customer service that Quickmill is known for. With three sales representatives working in specific areas across the country, Quickmill maintains face-to-face and personalized relationships that include on-site service, technical supports, upgrades, and much more.
Available for codesign and customization, Quickmill’s CUSMA-compliant machines ensure U.S. customers benefit from the advantages of working with a manufacturer in the Eastern time zone and having efficient transportation connections. These benefits have contributed to Quickmill’s strong and growing reputation in the U.S.
“Our customers are Quickmill ambassadors,” says Quickmill Regional Sales Manager Phil Green. “Not only do they offer testimonials and referrals, but they open their doors for demonstrations.”
According to Quickmill Regional Sales Manager Phil Green, the company’s existing customers are its best ambassadors, offering testimonials, referrals, and on-site demonstrations. In the U.S., Quickmill’s clients benefit not only from the reliability and longevity of the company’s CUSMA-compliant machines, but the advantages of working with a manufacturer in the Eastern time zone and having efficient transportation connections. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
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As an example, Green describes a recent collaboration with a Virginia customer who was considering upgrading a 25-year-old Quickmill machine to a newer model.
The customer saw a similar machine in action by visiting a Pennsylvania facility, who was a client of Green’s colleague Mark Williams.
“My client got to see a new Annihilator operating in a production environment, speak directly with operators and owners, and witness the machine’s power and efficiency,” says Green. “It gives prospective buyers confidence by seeing first-hand what our machines can do, and it gives them confidence in us.”
Advancing innovation with friction stir welding
Quickmill Engineering Manager Rob McArthur says Quickmill is developing machinery ideally suited for friction stir welding capabilities, with the company’s machines uniquely designed with the capacity to friction stir weld steel sheets and thick pieces of aluminum up to two inches. The technology, which can be used for applications in aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and other defence projects, gives Quickmill a competitive advantage. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
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Quickmill also continues to evolve and introduce new technologies, building upon the high-quality drilling, milling and innovative engineered solutions customers have relied on for decades.
This includes developing machinery that is ideally suited for friction stir welding capabilities. In this solid-state welding process, the inert gas, electric arc and welding rod are replaced with non-consumable tools that generate frictional heat between the rotating tool and the workpiece, causing the metal material to plasticize and mix. This produces stronger bonds, eliminates porosity and cracks, and reduces distortion.
“Friction stir welding is about careful heat control. It generates a tremendous amount of force,” says Quickmill Engineering Manager Rob McArthur. “You need a matching counterforce, enormous axial strength, and stability — especially over long distances. Quickmill machines are designed from the ground up to handle these loads and deliver clean and consistent welds every single time.”
VIDEO: FANUC-Controlled Friction Stir Welding Machine Helps Advance US Manufacturing
Though the transformative process is traditionally used for softer metals like aluminum and thinner sheets, Quickmill’s machines are uniquely designed with the capacity to friction stir weld steel sheets and thick pieces of aluminum up to two inches.
“Friction stir welding integration is a clear competitive advantage for Quickmill,” says McArthur. “It can be one of many tools integrated, so a single machine can drill, tap, mill, and weld.”
The applications for these purpose-built machines are vast, including aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and other defence projects.
Supporting the federal government’s major infrastructure projects like high-speed rail
Spain’s Alta Velocidad Española (AVE) high-speed rail service was launched between Madrid and Sevilla in 1992 and now covers over 4,000 kilometres. Canada’s proposed Alto high-speed rail network will span 1,000 kilometres from Toronto to Quebec City and will require over 4,000 kilometres of steel rails alongside massive quantities of other materials. Quickmill’s innovative technology is ideally suited to leverage opportunities arising from the federal government’s major infrastructure projects like Alto that will rely on Canadian manufacturing. (Photo: Renfe)
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Quickmill’s innovative technology is ideally suited to leverage opportunities arising from the federal government’s Buy Canadian Policy, and major infrastructure projects that will rely on Canadian manufacturing.
“We follow the major projects discussion carefully,” says Watson. “From pipeline to ports, from small modular reactors to major bridge infrastructure, Quickmill can be a Canadian supply chain partner for these historic Canadian investments.”
Given that friction stir welding technology is becoming popular for aluminum rail car production and customers have used Quickmill’s machine centers to produce rail cars and track components, the company is an ideal partner to contribute to Alto’s high speed rail project, a development that will also directly impact the company’s home in Peterborough and The Kawarthas.
According to Quickmill Regional Sales Manager Mark Williams, the company could be a Canadian supply chain partner for the Canadian government major infrastructure projects, including by custom engineering a solution to machine Alto’s rails and track components, using more powerful motors, multiple spindles, and large platforms. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
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One of the nation’s largest infrastructure investments in recent history, Alto will span 1,000 kilometres from Toronto to Quebec City, including a stop in Peterborough, with trains reaching speeds of 300 km/h or more.
According to Alto and its private developer partner Cadence, building Canada’s first high-speed rail network will require over 4,000 kilometres of steel rails alongside massive quantities of structural beams, catenaries, and other core materials.
“Many specifications, like the carbon and manganese content in the steel rails are yet to be determined,” says Quickmill Regional Sales Manager Mark Williams. “But based on our U.S. experience, we can custom engineer a solution to machine Alto’s rails and track components, using more powerful motors, multiple spindles, and large platforms.”
Expanding into Mexico’s advanced manufacturing market
With Quickmill making expansion into Mexico a priority, Quickmill Sales Director Lee Brown has visited the country four times in the past year and attended industry trade shows like FABTECH Mexico and Tecma. The company will focus on the Monterrey region in Neuvo Leon, which is known as the industrial engine of Mexico and a leader in heavy equipment manufacturing. (Photo courtesy of Quickmill)
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As well as strengthening its markets in Canada and the U.S., Quickmill is making expansion into Mexico, the third country in the CUSMA agreement, a priority. The company will focus on the Monterrey region in Neuvo Leon, which is known as the industrial engine of Mexico and a leader in heavy equipment manufacturing.
“We believe there is a great match between Quickmill’s machining solutions and the needs of Mexican manufacturers and machine shops,” says Lee Brown, Quickmill Sales Director, who has visited Mexico four times in the past year and attended industry trade shows like FABTECH Mexico and Tecma.
Quickmill received support from the National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) to test assumptions about customer demand in Mexico. This led to Quickmill developing a Spanish version of the company website and being promoted by Mexican industrial trade publications.
“The NRC-IRAP project shortened our learning curve,” says Brown. “We have adapted after gaining insights on the use of Spanish versus English in marketing, answered service and training questions, and discovering the prevalence of WhatsApp in business dealings in Mexico.”
Dominic LeBlanc, Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy, during a December 2025 visit to Mexico City where he met with senior government and business leaders to strengthen Canada–Mexico trade and diplomatic relations. Quickmill is one of a select group of export-ready Canadian companies that will join Minister LeBlanc for the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico from February 15 to 20, 2026. (Photo: Canada’s International Trade – Global Affairs Canada)
Quickmill’s Mexican expansion strategy has already proven fruitful, with the company invited to join the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico from February 15 to 20.
Led by the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy, the high-profile event in Mexico City and Monterrey will provide Quickmill with networking opportunities with international business leaders, support in finding new partners, and insight into the country’s unique business landscape.
“As an export-focused Canadian manufacturer, Quickmill’s inclusion in the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico presents opportunities to grow our operations here in Peterborough and generate new wealth for the country,” says Watson. “We feel incredibly grateful and privileged for the invitation to participate.”
Positioning for long-term and diversified growth in Canada
View of CNC drilling and milling machines being assembled at Quickmill’s Peterborough facility. With the company expanding into new markets like Mexico to diversify its growth strategy, Quickmill is also exploring options to expand its production capacity to build more and larger machines. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
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While expanding into new markets like Mexico will help balance U.S. exports, Quickmill’s growth strategy is not just about overcoming short-term trade challenges.
Instead, it strategically positions the company for long-term and diversified growth that is grounded in its founding principles: delivering high-quality and reliable products, providing exceptional service and support, and creating innovative custom-engineered solutions tailored to each customer’s needs.
To prepare for potential growth, Quickmill is exploring options to expand its production facilities to build more and larger machines. It is also actively hiring for manufacturing and customer support roles.
Quickmill is supported by expert sales, engineering, manufacturing, and service teams that work together to supply the company’s customers with the best in large-scale industrial machining solutions. Pictured are Regional Sales Manager Phil Green, Mechanical Designer Simon Peacock, Service Coordinator/Office Administrator Erin Ham, CNC Service Technician Dave Guilbeault, and Mechanical Assembler Al Hill. Poised for growth, Quickmill is actively hiring for manufacturing and customer support roles in February 2026. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
This branded editorial was created in partnership with Quickmill. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
If you’re thinking of running as a candidate in this fall’s municipal election, the City of Peterborough and the townships of Peterborough County are hosting a free information session in downtown Peterborough at the end of March.
“So, You Want to Run for Council – Candidate 101 Information Session” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre is designed for anyone interested in running for municipal council, as well as their spouses or partners, and anyone interested in learning more about the roles and responsibilities of municipal council members.
The two-hour session will be led by Nigel Bellchamber, an experienced municipal governance trainer who has worked with elected officials and senior staff across Ontario since 2002.
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The session will cover municipal powers, roles and responsibilities, strong mayor powers, the public’s role in local government, the difference between governance and administration, and municipal conflict of interest and other personal responsibilities.
Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions, meet others, and learn about the expectations and realities of public office. The session is not a forum to debate political issues and will not deal with the technical aspects of running a campaign.
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