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New Stages Peterborough brings a classic Christmas film to life on the Market Hall stage

By Bruce Head -
New Stages Peterborough is presenting "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough for six performances from December 13 to 17, 2023. Set in a 1940s radio station before a live "studio" audience, actors (from left to right) Kerry Griffin, Megan Murphy, M. John Kennedy, Ordena Stephens-Thompson, and Brad Brackenridge will play all the characters from the movie and also create all of the sound effects. (Photo: Andy Carroll)

Five professional actors will bring Frank Capra’s classic 1946 Christmas film to when New Stages Peterborough presents It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough for six performances from December 13 to 17.

The Market Hall stage will be transformed into a 1940s radio station, with the Market Hall audience as a live “studio” audience, while actors M. John Kennedy, Ordena Stephens-Thompson, Megan Murphy, Kerry Griffin, and Brad Brackenridge will play all the characters from the movie and also create all of the sound effects.

The family-friendly play was inspired by the film’s screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Jo Swerling, and Capra himself, who also directed and produced the film. The screenplay was based on the short story and booklet The Greatest Gift self-published by Philip Van Doren Stern in 1943, which itself was loosely based on Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella A Christmas Carol.

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Originally filmed in black and white, It’s a Wonderful Life stars James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who has sacrificed his personal dreams to run the family business Bailey Building and Loan — a type of financial institution similar to a credit union that made home loans more broadly accessible from the 1830s to the 1930s. After the business suffers a devastating financial loss on Christmas Eve, a despondent George considers taking his own life. Clarence Odbody, a guardian angel attempting to earn his wings, intervenes to show George all the lives he had touched and what the world would be like had he not existed.

“Bringing Frank Capra’s classic film to the stage began almost twenty years ago when longtime friend and teacher Frances Kondziela asked me to pen an adaptation for her high school ensemble,” playwright Joe Landry said in 2006. “After the premiere of this original incarnation, the piece was produced by TheatreWorks in New Milford, Connecticut, and was then chosen for its first professional production at the legendary Westport Country Playhouse.”

As that original full-scale production literally attempted to replicate the film on stage, its costs skyrocketed and the production was dropped. That’s when the concept of staging the production as a live radio play set in the same time period as the original film was born.

"It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" was written by Joe Landry after an attempt to stage a full-scale production of Frank Capra's classic 1946 Christmas film proved too costly. The radio play version premiered in 1996 and has since been produced around the world, largely through word of mouth alone, to critical acclaim. (Photo: Colin Eastland)
“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” was written by Joe Landry after an attempt to stage a full-scale production of Frank Capra’s classic 1946 Christmas film proved too costly. The radio play version premiered in 1996 and has since been produced around the world, largely through word of mouth alone, to critical acclaim. (Photo: Colin Eastland)

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play premiered in 1996 at Stamford Center for the Arts in Stamford, Connecticut.

Since then, the play has been produced around the world, largely through word of mouth alone, to critical acclaim — including by one of the only surviving cast members of the original film who says the famous line, “Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.”

“I have seen the radio show performed many times and this was the best one I have ever seen,” said Karolyn Grimes, who played six-year-old Zuzu Bailey. “You have found the true magic from this story.”

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Although It’s a Wonderful Life is now considered one of the greatest films of all time, it bombed at the box office when it premiered and received mixed reviews, despite being nominated for five Academy Awards in 1947, including best actor, best picture, and best director.

“The weakness of this picture, from this reviewer’s point of view, is the sentimentality of it — its illusory concept of life,” wrote Bosley Crowther in The New York Times on December 23, 1946. “Mr. Capra’s nice people are charming, his small town is a quite beguiling place and his pattern for solving problems is most optimistic and facile. But somehow they all resemble theatrical attitudes rather than average realities.”

For the next three decades, It’s a Wonderful Life remained relatively forgotten. Then, in 1974, the film’s copyright expired and it fell into the public domain. This meant the film could be broadcast on television without licensing or royalty fees — which it was, year after year during the holiday season, soon becoming a tradition for many families. Capra, who passed away in 1991, said it was his favourite of the films he directed and that he screened it for his own family every Christmas.

Donna Reed and James Stewart (middle) in a scene from Frank Capra's classic 1946 Christmas film "It's a Wonderful Life." In New Stages Peterborough's production of "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play," five actors will perform all the characters from the film as well as sound effects. (Photo: RKO Radio Pictures)
Donna Reed and James Stewart (middle) in a scene from Frank Capra’s classic 1946 Christmas film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” In New Stages Peterborough’s production of “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” five actors will perform all the characters from the film as well as sound effects. (Photo: RKO Radio Pictures)

The New Stages production of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play stars eight-time Dora Mavor Moore Award actor M. John Kennedy (The Tilco Strike, Give ‘Em Hell, Fireside Munsch) as George Bailey, two-time Dora-nominated actress Ordena Stephens-Thompson (‘Da Kink in My Hair, Fairview, Harlem Duet, Sweat) as Mary Hatch and other characters, Megan Murphy (The Verandah Society, Murphy’s Law) as Violet Bick and other characters, Kerry Griffin (SlapHappy, Second City, Bad Dog Theatre Co., Globus Theatre) as Henry F. Potter and other characters, and Brad Brackenridge (comedic and dramatic actor, puppeteer, and theatre artist) as Clarence the Angel and other characters.

The play is directed by the New Stage’s artistic director Mark Wallace, a two-time Dora nominee and a 2003 recipient, with Toronto’s Gabriel Vaillant as music director and pianist, Korin Cormier as costume designer, Sean Harris and Patricia Thorne as set and lighting designers, and Esther Vincent as stage manager.

Recommended for audience members over eight years of age, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play opens on Wednesday, December 13th and runs until Sunday, December 17th, with 7 p.m. evening performances from Wednesday until Saturday and 2 p.m. matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday.

New Stages artistic director Mark Wallace (third from left, wearing the Christmas hat) is directing "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" for six performances at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough from December 13 to 17, 2023. Actors (from left to right) Brad Brackenridge, Ordena Stephens-Thompson, M. John Kennedy, Megan Murphy, and Kerry Griffin will play all the characters from the movie and also create all of the sound effects. (Photo: Andy Carroll)
New Stages artistic director Mark Wallace (third from left, wearing the Christmas hat) is directing “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” for six performances at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough from December 13 to 17, 2023. Actors (from left to right) Brad Brackenridge, Ordena Stephens-Thompson, M. John Kennedy, Megan Murphy, and Kerry Griffin will play all the characters from the movie and also create all of the sound effects. (Photo: Andy Carroll)

General admission tickets are $40 ($20 for students, arts workers, and those who are underemployed) and are available in person at the Market Hall box office (140 Charlotte St, Peterborough), by phone at 705-775-1503, or online at markethall.org. A 25 per cent discount is available for group sales of 10 or more tickets.

For more information about New Stages’ 2023-24 season, visit www.newstages.ca.

 

The original version of this story has been updated with cast photos. kawarthaNOW is proud to be media sponsor of New Stages Theatre Company’s 2023-24 season.

At Five Counties Children’s Centre, there’s plenty of gratitude to go around every day

By Five Counties Children's Centre -
Five Counties Children's Centre CEO Scott Pepin hands the puck over to Five Counties alumnus Nick Scarr, who prepares to do the ceremonial puck drop before the Cobourg Cougars home game on November 20, 2023, which helped raise funds for the charitable organization serving children with special needs in the greater Kawarthas region. During his time at Five Counties, the centre's augmentative communication team set up Nick with a tablet to help him better communicate. (Photo courtesy of Five Counties)
Every month, Five Counties Children’s Centre provides a story about the work of the charitable organization. This month’s story is by CEO Scott Pepin.

While many of us take advantage of Black Friday sales, the Tuesday afterwards is worth buying into as well.

Giving Tuesday (November 28) is all about giving back, whether it’s making someone smile, assisting someone in need, making a donation, or being generous with our time and talents.

At Five Counties Children’s Centre, we have plenty to give and be grateful for every day. It’s obvious in seeing a child walk for the first time or hearing the giggle of a child greeting their therapist as they get ready for their visit.

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I experienced a grateful moment at our Cougars for Kids night in Cobourg on Monday (November 20), when I had the good fortune of joining Five Counties alumnus Nick Scarr at centre ice for the pre-game puck drop before the Cobourg Cougars hockey game.

Nick is a huge Cougars fan and was thrilled to do the honour. It’s fitting that, during his time at Five Counties, our augmentative communication team set up Nick with a tablet to help him better communicate. He now uses it to text, email, and cheer on Cougars players.

There’s more to appreciate in Cobourg. Our field of dreams — the Northumberland Backyard Project — behind our centre site in Cobourg is a step closer to reality thanks to generous community support. This fall, we started the grading, drainage, landscaping, and fencing that’s needed to start the transformation of the backyard.

We want to create a safe, fully accessible outdoor area that provides space and options for treatment, recreation, cultural awareness, and outdoor education program. We hope to share more good news about the backyard project very soon, as we aim to complete it in 2024.

VIDEO: Northumberland Backyard Project – From a Field of Dreams to Reality

In Peterborough, we’ve had incredible news with a generous donation from a retired couple. Dr. James and Mrs. Sheila Ryan have gifted $227,000 to Five Counties to help us attack wait lists for kids’ treatment.

The couple worked in a hospital setting — James as a doctor and Sheila as a pediatric/orthopedic nurse — so they know of what they speak when they say: “Prompt treatment can bring amazing results.” We estimate the Ryans’ donation will benefit more than 280 children in our region.

There’s an art to saying ‘thank you’, and that was on full display this past June at our centre in Lindsay when we welcomed six-year-old Gordon and his family for the unveiling of our new Five Counties ‘thank you’ card. Gordon’s crayon-coloured dinosaur picture graces the cover of the card, with a short description on the back about the aspiring young artist.

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Gordon is a former Five Counties client, who was born with a rare genetic condition called Aarskog-Scott syndrome that can cause many anatomical changes. Early on, Gordon’s parents noticed how he had difficulty reaching for objects and supporting his weight with his hands due to how they were developing.

From birth, Gordon also had crooked feet which raised concerns about how this could affect his walking. At Five Counties, Gordon was assessed to see what supports were needed, and he subsequently received assistance from an occupational therapist and physiotherapist.

“Thankfully we knew who to call — Five Counties,” notes Gordon’s mom Sarah.

Six-year-old Gordon is joined by his parents Len and Sarah in displaying his artwork that graces the cover of Five Counties' new "thank you" cards given to its donors, volunteers, and supporters. Gord, who was born with a rare genetic condition called Aarskog-Scott syndrome, was assessed at Five Counties to see what supports he needed and subsequently received assistance from an occupational therapist and physiotherapist. (Photo courtesy of Five Counties)
Six-year-old Gordon is joined by his parents Len and Sarah in displaying his artwork that graces the cover of Five Counties’ new “thank you” cards given to its donors, volunteers, and supporters. Gord, who was born with a rare genetic condition called Aarskog-Scott syndrome, was assessed at Five Counties to see what supports he needed and subsequently received assistance from an occupational therapist and physiotherapist. (Photo courtesy of Five Counties)

We know how thankful families are to get support at Five Counties. Inspiring stories like Gordon’s and Nick’s speak to the life-changing work and impact we have in our community.

The support shown to us from groups and individuals, like the Ryans, allow us to go above and beyond. Consider that last year, treatment provided to one out of every eight children seen at Five Counties was paid for through fundraising events and donations.

At Five Counties, we know every act of generosity counts — any day of the year.

VIDEO: Investing in Our Kids Thank you to the Ryans!

Peterborough Theatre Guild brings beloved literary characters to life in ‘The Enchanted Bookshop’

By Bruce Head -
Cast and crew on the set for the Peterborough Theatre Guild's production of "The Enchanted Bookshop" by Todd Wallinger, which runs for eight performances from December 1 to 10, 2023. The family-friendly comic fantasy takes place in a used bookstore where literary characters come to life at night. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Theatre Guild)

For the third production of its 2023-24 season, the Peterborough Theatre Guild is staging the family play The Enchanted Bookshop by Todd Wallinger with eight performances from December 1 to 10 including weekend matinees.

A comic fantasy, The Enchanted Bookshop is set in a used bookstore called A Likely Story, where something magical happens at night: beloved literary characters leave the pages of their books and come to life — unbeknownst to Margie, the bookstore’s cat-loving, kind-hearted, and eternally optimistic owner who struggles to find customers to buy her books.

Worried about Margie and her bookstore, six of the literary characters who have come to life — The Wizard of Oz’s Dorothy Gale (and her little dog too), Robin Hood, Pollyanna, Sherlock Holmes, Heidi, and Tom Sawyer — wish they could help her, but there are two rules to the magic that brought them to life: they aren’t allowed to leave the bookstore and they aren’t allowed to let humans see them, or else they’ll disappear back into their books forever.

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After a mysterious lady in red hides a locked book containing a stolen necklace in the bookstore, two threatening but rather inept jewel smugglers soon come looking for it, leaving the book characters with a dilemma. Should they risk their real-life existence by warning Margie, or is there some other way they can protect her without being seen?

In this play that celebrates the joy of reading, additional famous literary characters also make an appearance, including Fagin from Oliver’s Twist, the Queen of Hearts, Long John Silver, Doctor Dolittle, Anne of Green Gables, the Wicked Witch of the West, Hopalong Cassidy, and Frankenstein’s monster.

The Enchanted Bookshop was written in 2017 by American playwright Todd Wallinger, who fell in love with theatre as a child but went on to become an electrical engineer before deciding to follow his dreams and return to the theatre. In 2005, he launched a children’s theatre company in Colorado where he discovered writing plays was his true calling. Since then, the award-winning playwright has published 25 plays that have been produced more than 2,500 times in 23 countries.

"The Enchanted Bookshop" was written in 2017 by Todd Wallinger, an award-winning American playwright who has published 25 plays that have been produced more than 2,500 times in 23 countries. (Photo: Todd Wallinger)
“The Enchanted Bookshop” was written in 2017 by Todd Wallinger, an award-winning American playwright who has published 25 plays that have been produced more than 2,500 times in 23 countries. (Photo: Todd Wallinger)

“The Enchanted Bookshop is my favourite play because I think it’s my most personal play,” Wallinger told Jeremy Johnson of Pioneer Drama Service, which has published most of his plays.

“When I was writing it, there had been some other plays that have book characters coming alive, but I just had to write this one because it just had so much personal meaning to me. Growing up, I was such a big reader. I loved books, and when I read it all came alive for me.”

“Now that I’m an adult, I just don’t see kids reading so much — I understand why, with so many other entertainment options out there. I wanted to write something that really shared that love of books with a new generation. I wanted to write something to show how powerful books can be for inspiring our imagination and really helping each of us become more human.”

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Directed by Sarah Rogers and produced by Marion Griffin with Hayley Griffin-Montgomery, the Peterborough Theatre Guild production features a cast of both adults and children. It stars Emma Cartwright as bookstore owner Margie, Maeve O’Neill as Dorothy, Edward Sweeney as Robin Hood, Cailleach Beaton as Pollyanna, Stewart Grainger as Sherlock Holmes, Skye Beaton as Heidi, Darragh O’Connell as Tom Sawyer, and Keith Goranson and Jill Lipsett as jewel smugglers Fingers and Eddie.

The cast also features Isabella Russell as Margie’s cat Bombalurina, Rylie Milwain as Toto, Olyvia Foster and Hannah Lipsett as mother-and-daughter bookstore customers Mom and Tammy, Mridul Harbhajanka as the Lady in Red, Emily Beamish as Officer Ketchum, Ashley Gosselin as the Book Fairy, Mark Caravaggio as Fagin, Saoirse MacQuarrie as the Queen of Hearts, Aaron Black as Long John Silver, Jim Mills as Doctor Dolittle, Anna Mcintyre as Anne of Green Gables, Miranda Moorcroft as the Wicked Witch of the West, Vienna Black as Hopalong Cassidy, and Mark Caravaggio as Frankenstein’s monster.

The production’s crew and creative team includes stage managers Hayley Griffin-Montgomery and Saoirse MacQuarrie, musical director Christina Wheeler-Moorcroft, choreographer Bryanna Ostrander, and set designer Hayley Griffin-Montgomery, with set construction by Hayley Griffin-Montgomery and Phil Griffin-Montgomery and set dressing and painting by Shirley Bankey, Sharon Pearsall, Hayley Griffin-Montgomery, and Bella Joore.

Directed by Sarah Rogers and produced by Marion Griffin with Hayley Griffin-Montgomery, the Peterborough Theatre Guild production of the family comedy "The Enchanted Bookshop" features a cast of both adults and children. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Theatre Guild)
Directed by Sarah Rogers and produced by Marion Griffin with Hayley Griffin-Montgomery, the Peterborough Theatre Guild production of the family comedy “The Enchanted Bookshop” features a cast of both adults and children. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Theatre Guild)

Props are by Bella Joore, Christian Joore, and Sarah Joore, sound and light design by Andrew Duncan and Abbey Duncan with sound and light operators Amy Willshaw, Mark Gray, and John Robinson, costume design by Elaine Day and Gwen Hope, and makeup design by Shelley Moody with makeup by Bryanna Ostrander, Terry Lucy-MacNeil, Kate O’Connell, and Hayley Griffin-Montgomery. Siobhan MacQuarrie is the production’s photographer.

The Enchanted Bookshop opens on Friday, December 1st at 7:30 p.m., with other evening performances from Tuesday, December 5th to Thursday, December 7th and 2 p.m. matinee performances on Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd and Saturday, December 9th and Sunday, December 10th. All performances take place at the Guild Hall at 364 Rogers Street in Peterborough’s East City.

Tickets are $15 and are available online at peterboroughtheatreguild.com or by calling the box office at any time at 705-745-4211 (if the box office is not open when you call, leave a message and they will call you back).

The Peterborough Theatre Guild's production of "The Enchanted Bookshop" opens on Friday, December 1st at 7:30 p.m., with other evening performances from Tuesday, December 5th to Thursday, December 7th and 2 p.m. matinee performances on Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd and on Saturday, December 9th and Sunday, December 10th. (Artwork: Colton DeKnock)
The Peterborough Theatre Guild’s production of “The Enchanted Bookshop” opens on Friday, December 1st at 7:30 p.m., with other evening performances from Tuesday, December 5th to Thursday, December 7th and 2 p.m. matinee performances on Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd and on Saturday, December 9th and Sunday, December 10th. (Artwork: Colton DeKnock)

 

kawarthaNOW is proud to be a media sponsor of the Peterborough Theatre Guild’s 2023-24 season.

One year on, Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal talks housing crunch, cross-border land servicing, and need for a ‘course correction budget’

By Paul Rellinger -
Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal speaks to the crowd at the annual Mayor's Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023. Hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, the event also featured an update from Martin Imbleau, the newly minted CEO of VIA HFR (High Frequency Rail), on the planned high frequency rail corridor between Toronto and Quebec City. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

One spoke of moving Peterborough forward, the other spoke of moving Ontarians more efficiently, and both spoke of the their vision and determination to make both of those things happen.

Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal and Martin Imbleau, the newly minted CEO of VIA HFR (High Frequency Rail), shared the podium at the annual Mayor’s Breakfast held early Tuesday (November 21) at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club.

Hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, the breakfast event saw a packed room of local business leaders and politicians, Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark among the latter, listen as both speakers updated the current status of their respective portfolios while providing a peek of what’s ahead.

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While the gathering was held to mark Mayor Leal’s first year in office, Imbleau’s address created an initial, and palpable, sense of excitement.

Relatively new to his post — he most recently served as president and CEO of the Montreal Port Authority — Imbleau laid out where the development of a high frequency rail corridor between Toronto and Quebec City is currently at and what’s now ahead.

“I came here today for one reason, to start a relationship between you and I, but more fundamentally between us all in a vision that has been too long discussed — a Toronto-Quebec City fast and efficient electric railway corridor,” said Imbleau.

“While unfulfilled promises of the past might have led to skepticism, I stand here with a renewed sense of momentum. Why? Because we have reached two significant milestones.”

“A new corporation that I lead was just created to realize the vision. We’ve also selected three qualified international teams (Cadence, Intercity Rail Developers, and Partenaires Ferroviaires QCONNECTION Rail Partners) that will engage in a competitive request for proposals. By the end of 2024, one of those teams will be our partner to co-develop this monumental project.”

Martin Imbleau, CEO of VIA HFR (High Frequency Rail), provides an update on the planned high frequency rail corridor between Toronto and Quebec City during the annual Mayor's Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023 hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)
Martin Imbleau, CEO of VIA HFR (High Frequency Rail), provides an update on the planned high frequency rail corridor between Toronto and Quebec City during the annual Mayor’s Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023 hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

Before revealing what he could about the planned high frequency rail corridor, Imbleau paid homage to the late Tony Smith, who served as chair of the chamber’s board of directors and, as such, was a passionate advocate for passenger service linking Peterborough with points east and west.

“Tony said a train service, like the one we’re suggesting, will be a game changer for the (Peterborough) community,” said Imbleau. “An entrepreneur and an innovator, Tony rallied troops to support our train project because he knew that this vision was about more than a train. It was an infrastructure (project) that would not only carry people but would also bring opportunities … significant opportunities. He knew very well that this train would not only enhance transportation but that it would also carry dreams of a better tomorrow for Peterborough.”

After summarizing the benefits the high frequency rail corridor will have for communities along its 1,000-kilometre-plus passenger rail-dedicated track, such as heightened job activity during the construction process, reduced commuter times, a reduced carbon footprint, and new residential development, Imbleau outlined next steps.

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“By next fall, the (federal) government will select a winning team,” Imbleau said. “From then on, our team will work with the private partner that was selected to scope the project in a progressive design deal approach. This type of public-private partnership allows us to work through the complexity of this important project together, enabling us to better assess the scope, the cost, and the calendar. It will take some time, for sure, but we will do it the right way.”

As for his motivation for taking on “the new adventure” of leading VIA HFR, Imbleau said he didn’t leave his prior position “to work on an abstract concept.”

“When I close my eyes and I see myself in 2040 and 2050, I just can’t imagine seeing millions more cars on congested costly highways. We need to act now for the future generations. We need to develop a transportation service that Canadians will pick over driving that is the smarter, more eco-friendly choice.”

Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal (right) speaks with VIA HFR CEO Martin Imbleau (back to camera) prior to both men delivering remarks during the annual Mayor's Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023 hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)
Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal (right) speaks with VIA HFR CEO Martin Imbleau (back to camera) prior to both men delivering remarks during the annual Mayor’s Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023 hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

With the assurance that a project that has seen so many starts and stops is moving forward with renewed vigour ringing in their ears, the breakfast audience was then treated to a state-of-the-union-like address from Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal.

In his comments, the former Peterborough MPP and provincial cabinet minister touched on the progress realized since he was elected mayor in October 2023, citing in particular the adoption of Peterborough’s inaugural strategic plan, the appointment of new CAO Jasbir Raina, the initial steps toward Service Peterborough “one-stop shopping” for residents and businesses interacting with municipal government, the introduction of curbside organic waste collection, and the establishment of the modular bridge housing community for 50 people experiencing homelessness.

“These units will help some of the most vulnerable people in our community,” said Mayor Leal. “I’ve often said, and I’ll repeat it here, people experiencing homelessness is the toughest policy issue that I’ve ever faced in my time in public life. There’s no playbook to follow.”

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While much has been accomplished, said Mayor Leal, there remain major challenges on the horizon — challenges, he says, that must be met and overcome.

“Peterborough has an acute shortage of housing,” acknowledged Mayor Leal, noting the city’s vacancy rate of 1.1 per cent makes it the fourth tightest housing market in Canada while average rent is the 10th most expensive in the country.

“The lack of housing is one of the things I hear most about from residents and businesses,” said Mayor Leal. “The province has given us a target of 4,700 (new) housing units by 2031. I’ve committed to that target, but the city is only one part of the solution.”

“Our municipal services corporation is exploring opportunities to develop around 700 units over the next 10 years. But for the most part, the city’s role is the granting of approvals, not to build buildings themselves. We need a cooperative, collaborative, and constructive relationship with the private sector.”

As Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce CEO and president Sarah Budd listens, Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal speaks during a question-and-answer session during the annual Mayor's Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023 hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
As Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce CEO and president Sarah Budd listens, Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal speaks during a question-and-answer session during the annual Mayor’s Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023 hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)

Noting that Peterborough’s tax base is comprised of 80 per cent residential and 20 per cent commercial/industrial, Mayor Leal said that “isn’t a healthy ratio.”

“We need to grow our employment land tax base to create new opportunities for residents and to ensure the financial health of our community,” he said. “We need to maintain infrastructure and services as we grow.”

“I’m eager to engage our neighbours who want to work together to create productive win-win mutually beneficial solutions. I know we’ve not been able to come together as a region over the past couple of decades for the benefit of our residents and communities. There’s a long history of disappointments on all sides. I want to move forward and I want to move forward together.”

To that end, Mayor Leal pledged that if a neighbouring township has a proposal for the city to extend services to their land in exchange for a share of tax revenue, “I’ll be happy any day to discuss that.”

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Mayor Leal clarified that the city’s official plan has been amended in the past to allow for cross-border servicing, adding “We can and will amend the city’s official plan on a case-by-case basis for economic growth for all.”

Finally, speaking to the draft 2024 city budget and its proposed property tax increase of close to 10 per cent, Mayor Leal said he intends “to reduce that number” but warns “Whatever number we end up with will be a shock to residents.”

“We need to take action now. This is a course correction budget to avoid a series of double-digit increases down the road. We can’t keep kicking the can down the road. There are no more dents that can be kicked in. The tab is due. This budget will deliver results.”

“I hear from people all the time about what it’s like to drive down George and Water streets. These roads are an embarrassment to me and they should be an embarrassment to you. The budget will redevelop those roads in 2024.”

It was a full house for the annual Mayor's Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023. Hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, the event featured an update from VIA HFR CEO Martin Imbleau (pictured at podium) and from Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)
It was a full house for the annual Mayor’s Breakfast at the Peterborough Golf Country and Club on November 21, 2023. Hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, the event featured an update from VIA HFR CEO Martin Imbleau (pictured at podium) and from Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

For her part, County Warden Clark was particularly interested in Mayor Leal’s comments concerning the cross-border servicing of city-neighbouring land.

“Christmas is getting close, so I’ll equate it to the turkey — we’ve got the carcass on the table but we’ve got to put some meat on the bones,” said Warden Clark.

“The city is looking for employment lands. How can we work together? He has said annexation is off the table. The municipalities that border the city were very glad to hear that. How we can make this work with a different model rather than annexation is a good start.”

Tractor-trailer jackknifed on Highway 28 north of Apsley Tuesday afternoon due to icy road conditions

By kawarthaNOW -
A tractor-trailer jackknifed on Highway 28 north of Apsley on November 21, 2023 due to icy road conditions. (OPP photo)

With a winter weather travel advisory in effect for the northern Kawarthas region for Tuesday (November 21), police are advising people to slow down and drive safely after a tractor-trailer jackknifed on Highway 28 north of Apsley.

Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) report an influx of calls related to dangerous road conditions due to roads becoming icy.

On Tuesday afternoon, a tractor-trailer that jackknifed as a result of icy road conditions has blocked Highway 28 north of Mill Lake Road. Emergency crews are working to clear the vehicle from the road.

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Officers have reported that Highway 28 anywhere north of Burleigh Falls is experiencing icy conditions. Peterborough County’s roads department has been advised of the situation.

“Peterborough County OPP would like to advise the public to use caution when travelling today and drive according to conditions,” reads a media release.

“With the current temperatures as well as precipitation icy conditions are expected. Be prepared to have your drive take longer and, if you don’t need to be on the roads, then please stay home.”

What’s new on Netflix Canada in December 2023

By kawarthaNOW -
In the psychological thriller "Leave the World Behind" coming to Netflix on December 8, 2023, Myha'la, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, and Julia Roberts must work together to save their families when a cyberattack threatens the world. (Photo: Netflix)

Every month, kawarthaNOW is the only local media source to bring you a list of what’s coming to Netflix Canada. Here are a few highlights of what’s coming to Netflix in December.

Leave the World Behind is a psychological thriller written, directed, and produced by Sam Esmail based on the 2020 novel of the same name by Rumaan Alam. Amanda and Clay Sandford (Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke) have rented a house on Long Island for a family vacation. After a cyberattack causes a blackout, the home’s owners (Mahershala Ali and Myha’la) return. As the threat grows, both families must decide how best to survive the potential crisis, all while grappling with their own place in this collapsing world. After a limited release in theatres on November 22, Leave the World Behind comes to Netflix on Friday, December 8th.

VIDEO: “Leave the World Behind” trailer

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Another film scheduled for a limited theatrical release on November 22 before premiering on Netflix is the biographical drama Maestro, which chronicles the lifelong relationship between famed American composer Leonard Bernstein (Bradley Cooper) and his wife Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan).

Directed by Cooper based on a screenplay he wrote with Josh Singer and produced with Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg, the film also features Matt Bomer, Maya Hawke, and Sarah Silverman in supporting roles. It will be released on Netflix on Wednesday, December 20th.

VIDEO: “Maestro” trailer

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For science fiction fans, the epic space opera Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire comes to Netflix on Friday, December 22nd after a limited theatrical release on December 15. Directed by Zack Snyder based on a story he created, the film is set in in a universe controlled by the corrupt government of the Motherworld and its Imperium army, who threaten the peaceful settlement on the moon of Veldt.

One of the settlers is Kora, a former member of the Imperium seeking redemption for her past, who soon tasks herself to recruit warriors from across the galaxy to make a stand against the Motherworld’s forces before they return to the planet. The film features an ensemble cast including Sofia Boutella, Charlie Hunnam, Michiel Huisman, Djimon Hounsou, Doona Bae, Ray Fisher, Cleopatra Coleman, Jena Malone, Fra Fee, Ed Skrein, and Anthony Hopkins.

VIDEO: “Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire” trailer

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Already released in selected theatres, the dark comedy-drama May December tells the story of a married couple (Julianne Moore and Charles Melton) who buckles under the pressure when an actress (Natalie Portman) arrives to do research for a role she is going to play in a film about their notorious past.

The film was loosely inspired by the true story of Mary Kay Letourneau, a 34-year-old American teacher who was convicted of sex offences after having an affair with her 12-year-old student beginning in 1996. She had two children with him while he was still under age and they were married for 14 years after she served a six-year prison term. May December comes to Netflix on Friday, December 1st.

VIDEO: “May December” trailer

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Also coming to Netflix in December is the second part of the sixth and final season of The Crown (Dec. 14), in which Queen Elizabeth II reflects on her life and legacy and paves the way for her successors Charles and William, and the new Netflix series Berlin (Dec. 29), a spin-off of the popular Spanish heist crime drama series Money Heist, that follows the character Berlin (Pedro Alonso) and a masterful gang who gather in Paris to plan one of his most ambitious robberies ever.

On Christmas Day, Netflix will release Ricky Gervais: Armageddon, a stand-up special from the star of The Office, Extras, and Afterlife. In the show, recorded at the London Palladium earlier this year as part of the comedian’s latest stand-up tour, Gervais will riff on the end of humanity, political correctness, family weddings, funerals, and artificial intelligence. “For the next 2000 years, people will remember the 25th December as the day Armageddon was released on Netflix,” Gervais says.

VIDEO: New on Netflix Canada in December 2023

Here’s the complete list of everything coming to Netflix Canada in December by date, along with what’s leaving.

 

Friday, December 1

  • May December (Netflix film) – Twenty years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, a married couple buckles under the pressure when an actress arrives to do research for a film about their past.
  • Sweet Home: Season 2 (Netflix series) – Who’s knocking? A monster, a human, or a hybrid…? The stakes are higher than ever as the lines begin to blur, and nobody is safe from infection.
  • Bad Boys II
  • Chronicle
  • Confess, Fletch
  • The Craft
  • How the Grinch Stole Christmas
  • It’s Complicated
  • Julie & Julia
  • Office Christmas Party
  • Pride & Prejudice
  • Shrek
  • Transplant: Seasons 1-3

 

Sunday, December 3

  • Welcome to Samdal-ri (Netflix series)

 

Monday, December 4

  • Dew Drop Diaries: Season 2 (Netflix family) – Whoosh, here we go! Athena, Phoebe and Eden return to help their kids solve everyday problems with glitter, grit and a great attitude.

 

Tuesday, December 5

  • The F Word
  • Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
  • Stavros Halkias: Fat Rascal (Netflix comedy) – Acerbic comic Stavros Halkias skewers tech culture, air travel, sex — and himself — in this raunchy, rollicking and irreverent stand-up set.
  • Top Chef: Seasons 6 and 12

 

Wednesday, December 6

  • Blood Coast (Netflix series) – As a vicious drug dealer tries to overtake Marseille, a rogue police captain and his daredevil team welcome a new recruit with an agenda of her own.
  • Christmas as Usual (Netflix film) – To celebrate their engagement, Thea takes Jashan home — but his Indian roots and her family’s Norwegian traditions clash in a chaotic Christmas.

 

Thursday, December 7

  • Analog Squad (Netflix series) – After learning of his estranged father’s sickness, a scheming middle-aged man assembles a fake family to reunite with him for one last time.
  • The Archies (Netflix film) – Set in 1960s India, Archie and the gang navigate romance, friendship, and the future of Riverdale as developers threaten to destroy a beloved park.
  • Hilda: Season 3 (Netflix family) – A trip to see her great-aunt sparks Hilda’s interest in fairies. But the young explorer may have a stronger connection to the creatures than she thinks.
  • I Hate Christmas: Season 2 (Netflix series) – It’s that time of year again, but now Gianna is in love and ready to embrace the Christmas spirit — even if new issues arise and threaten it.
  • High Tides (Netflix series) – Over a tense summer on the Belgian coast, a wealthy friend group faces adulthood’s harsh realities while grappling with love and societal expectations.
  • My Life With the Walter Boys (Netflix series) – When a tragedy disrupts her life, a teen moves in with her guardian’s big family in a small town and learns new lessons about love, hope and friendship.
  • Naga (Netflix film) – Teenage Cindy has high aspirations: to conquer the world. But first, she must survive high school — and high society — in her hometown of San Pedro.
  • World War II: From the Frontlines (Netflix documentary) – Through vividly enhanced archival footage and voices from all sides of the conflict, this docuseries brings WWII to life like never before.

 

Friday, December 8

  • Blood Vessel (Netflix film) – Brought together by chance, six people fleeing a town devastated by oil pollution stow away on a mysterious ship — not realizing the dangers that await.
  • Leave the World Behind (Netflix film) – A family’s getaway to a luxurious rental home takes an ominous turn when a cyberattack knocks out their devices — and two strangers appear at their door.
  • Women on the Edge (Netflix film) – After meeting in an anger-control group, two women set out to expose a sketchy plastic surgeon, resulting in an empowering journey — and friendship.

 

Monday, December 11

  • 21 Jump Street

 

Tuesday, December 12

  • Kevin Hart & Chris Rock: Headliners Only (Netflix documentary) – From back in the day to the top of their game, Kevin Hart and Chris Rock offer an unparalleled, behind-the-scenes look at their friendship and careers.
  • Single’s Inferno: Season 3 (Netflix series) – A new set of singles embark on a journey of love on a remote island — navigating drama, passion and everything in between for a chance at Paradise.
  • Talk to Me
  • Under Pressure: The U.S. Women’s World Cup Team (Netflix documentary) – In this docuseries, the U.S. women’s national soccer team pursues their third consecutive title amid trials and triumphs at the 2023 FIFA World Cup.

 

Wednesday, December 13

  • 1670 (Netflix series) – A quirky nobleman navigates family feuds and clashes with peasants in his misguided quest to become Poland’s most famous figure In this satirical comedy.
  • Car Masters: Rust to Riches: Season 5 (Netflix series) – New faces join the Gotham Garage gang as they prepare to bring their business to the next level — but it’ll take a lot of hard work and creativity.
  • Holiday in the Vineyards
  • The Influencer (Netflix series) – After a social media stunt goes wrong, an influencer is forced to rebuild her reputation while navigating a cutthroat online scene.
  • Se Eu Fosse: Luísa Sonza (Netflix documentary) – Brazil’s most polarizing pop singer opens up in this docuseries about her love life, career, controversies and the creation of a new album.

 

Thursday, December 14

  • As the Crow Flies: Season 2 (Netflix series) – Asli and Lale must break from the norm and face fresh challenges as they continue to fight for their survival in a cutthroat media industry.
  • The Crown: Season 6 Part 2 (Netflix series) – With the Commonwealth irrevocably changed, Queen Elizabeth II reflects on her life and legacy, and paves the way for her successors Charles and William.
  • The Devil’s Advocate
  • Yu Yu Hakusho (Netflix series) – After a selfless act costs him his life, teen delinquent Yusuke Urameshi is chosen as a “Spirit Detective” to investigate cases involving rogue yokai.

 

Friday, December 15

  • Archer: Season 14
  • Carol & The End of The World (Netflix series) – With a mysterious planet hurtling towards Earth, extinction is imminent for the people of the world. While most feel liberated to pursue their wildest dreams, one quiet and always uncomfortable woman stands alone — lost among the hedonistic masses.
  • Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget (Netflix film) – A fearless band of chickens flock together to save their own kind from an unsettling new threat: a nearby farm that’s cooking up something suspicious.
  • Face to Face with ETA: Conversations with a Terrorist (Netflix documentary) – Josu Urrutikoetxea, also known as Josu Ternera, gives an exhaustive interview to journalist Jordi Évole about his involvement in the terrorist group ETA.
  • Familia (Netflix film) – As a family discusses the future of their idyllic olive farm over a meal, the complexity of their relationships emerges through laughs and confessions.
  • Get Santa
  • PAW Patrol: Season 10
  • Yoh’ Christmas (Netflix series) – Single, 30 and under pressure, Thando lies to her family that she has a boyfriend. Now she has 24 days to bring one home for Christmas. Can she do it?

 

Tuesday, December 19

  • Children Ruin Everything: Seasons 1-2
  • The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills: Seasons 1-2
  • Trevor Noah: Where Was I (Netflix comedy) – Returning to Netflix for his fourth original comedy special, Trevor Noah shares his hilarious experiences from his recent travels around the world, ranging from foreign national anthems to varying cultural norms.

 

Wednesday, December 20

  • Cindy la Regia: The High School Years (Netflix series) – Teenage Cindy has high aspirations: to conquer the world. But first, she must survive high school — and high society — in her hometown of San Pedro.
  • Inception
  • Love is Blind Brazil: After the Altar (Netflix series) – Drama, closure and rekindled flames collide as cast members from past seasons of “Love is Blind Brazil” come together in this special reunion episode.
  • Maestro (Netflix film) – Maestro is a towering and fearless love story chronicling the lifelong relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein. A love letter to life and art, Maestro at its core is an emotionally epic portrayal of family and love.
  • Taming of the Shrewd 2 (Netflix film)

 

Thursday, December 21

  • Flipping Out: Seasons 4-5
  • Like Flowers in Sand (Netflix series) – Supa Team 4: Season 2 (Netflix film) – While Mr. Magedzee searches for a cleaner, greener power source, Supa Team 4 searches for the evil Chusi. Will they all find what they’re looking for?

 

Friday, December 22

  • Gyeongseong Creature: Season 1 Part 1 (Netflix series) – Gyeongseong, 1945. In Seoul’s grim era under colonial rule, an entrepreneur and a sleuth fight for survival and face a monster born out of human greed.
  • Rebel Moon — Part One: A Child of Fire (Netflix film) – When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, a mysterious stranger living among its villagers becomes their best hope for survival.
  • Sing 2

 

Saturday, December 23

  • Pretty Woman

 

Sunday, December 24

  • A Vampire in the Family (Netflix film) – When a fainthearted ex-soccer player learns his brother-in-law is a vampire with world domination plans, he must gather his courage and save the day.
  • The Manny (Netflix series) – A high-powered executive hires a rancher in a panic to care for her kids. Little does she know, he’ll challenge her views of gender roles — and of love.

 

Monday, December 25

  • Ricky Gervais: Armageddon (Netflix comedy) – The BAFTA and Golden Globe-winning mind behind The Office, Extras, and Afterlife takes the stage for a provocative new stand-up special, riffing on the end of humanity, political correctness, family weddings, funerals, and artificial intelligence.

 

Tuesday, December 26

  • Thank You, I’m Sorry (Netflix film) – Suddenly alone during the late stages of her pregnancy, Sara receives an unexpected lifeline when Linda, her estranged older sister, arrives.

 

Wednesday, December 27

  • Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare (Netflix documentary) – The brutal conditions of an infamous wilderness therapy camp — and the alleged abuse of the troubled teens who attended — are exposed in this gripping tell-all documentary.

 

Thursday, December 28

  • Pokémon Concierge (Netflix family)

 

Friday, December 29

  • Berlin (Netflix series) – Back to his golden age before the events of “Money Heist,” Berlin and a masterful gang gather in Paris to plan one of his most ambitious robberies ever.

 

Sunday, December 31

  • Blanche: Season 1
  • Blippi Wonders: Season 3
  • The Millionaire Matchmaker: Seasons 3-4

 

Leaving Netflix Canada in December

Sunday, December 17

  • Lethal Weapon 2
  • Lethal Weapon 3
  • Lethal Weapon 4

Wednesday, December 27

  • Da Kath & Kim Code
  • Kath & Kimderella
  • Kath and Kim: Kountdown Specials
  • Kath and Kim: Seasons 1-4
  • Kath and Kim: The Souvenir Editions

Sunday, December 31

  • 13 Going on 30
  • Bridesmaids
  • John Wick: Chapter 2
  • The Royals: Seasons 1-4
  • Titanic
  • World War Z

 

All titles and dates are subject to change.

36-year-old Peterborough man arrested for four separate robberies in a week

By kawarthaNOW -

Police have arrested a 36-year-old Peterborough man in connection with four separate robberies in a single week.

The first robbery happened at around 12:50 a.m. last Monday (November 13), when officers were called to a business in the Hunter Street and Burnham Street area after it was reported two men had entered the store and took cigarettes and lottery tickets before fleeing.

Later that day at around 12:57 p.m., police received an online report about a man who entered a store in the King Street and Bethune Street and forcefully took cigarettes from behind the counter before fleeing.

On Thursday at around 6:45 p.m., officers were called to a business in the Parkhill Road and Water Street area where they learned that a man had taken the automatic coin register and brandished a knife at employees when they tried to stop him.

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On Friday at around 2:15 a.m., officers were notified about a man who had entered a store in the Sherbrooke Street and Denure Street area and fled with up to 80 packages of cigarettes.

Through investigation, police determined the same suspect was involved in all four incidents. At around 3:45 p.m. on Friday, an officer on general patrol in the area of Dublin Street and Aylmer Street spotted the suspect and took him into custody.

A 36-year-old Peterborough man has been charged with four counts of robbery with theft, failure to comply with a release order, and failure to comply with probation. The man had been bound by a release order and a probation order with the condition to not possess any weapons as defined by the criminal code.

The accused man was held in custody and appeared in court on November 18.

Police are continuing to search for a second suspect in the first robbery.

Where to harvest your own locally grown Christmas trees in the greater Kawarthas region

By kawarthaNOW -
Barrett's Tree Farm, located at 3141 Williamson Road North in Cobourg, is one of eight tree farms located in the greater Kawarthas regions where you can harvest your own Christmas tree in 2023. There are an additional three farms located just outside the Kawarthas in Bowmanville, Courtice and Hampton. (Photo: Barrett's Tree Farm)

This year there are 11 tree farms in and just outside the greater Kawarthas region where you can harvest your own locally grown Christmas tree.

In the Kawarthas, you can visit Murray Tree Farm in Apsley, Oscar’s Tree Farm in Campbellcroft, Oake Family Tree Farm in Cavan-Monaghan Township, Barrett’s Christmas Tree Farm in Cobourg, Little Lake Christmas Trees in Colborne, J&D Christmas Trees in Colborne, Dawson Tree Farm in Millbrook, and Potash Creek Farms in Omemee.

Just outside the Kawarthas, you can harvest your own tree at Powell’s Trees in Bowmanville, Prestonvale Tree Farms in Courtice, and Hope’s Tree Farm in Hampton.

Last season, Blackstone Christmas Tree Farm in Blackstone and Kol Tree Farms in Roseneath both closed permanently.

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With the dry spells and hot weather across the country this summer, some local tree farmers have reported a difficult year for farming trees.

The lack of growth has affected the opening hours of some of the farms, including Little Lake Christmas Trees, which is running by appointment only this year.

“I would love to have more people on the farm, but our trees just didn’t grow very much,” says owner David Smyth. “Rather than have people show up and not find the tree they want or show up and cut a tree that isn’t quite ready for harvest, it’s easier to have people call first and tell me what they’re looking for. If I can find one, that’s great, and if not, I can suggest other local farms.”

Little Lake Christmas Trees at 182 Bailey Drive in Colborne is open by appointment only on weekends due to a lack of tree growth, which has been common in the region in 2023 due to dry spells and prolonged summer weather. (Photo: Little Lake Christmas Trees)
Little Lake Christmas Trees at 182 Bailey Drive in Colborne is open by appointment only on weekends due to a lack of tree growth, which has been common in the region in 2023 due to dry spells and prolonged summer weather. (Photo: Little Lake Christmas Trees)

Dan Hope of Hope’s Christmas Tree Farm expresses a similar sentiment, adding that the dry seasons aren’t as manageable for the small-scale farms in the region.

“It was really good early in the year, with fresh new growth in May and June, but that prolonged hot spell we had in the early fall and late summer was tough,” he says. “We’re a small, family-run business, so we don’t have irrigation systems. It’s tough for us to keep up with six weeks without water.”

For tree farm addresses, hours, available tree species, prices, and websites, check out the following map:

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View a larger version of this map.

 

Why buy a grown-in-Ontario Christmas tree?

Located at 400 Grassy Road in Omemee, Potash Creek Farm is open on Saturday and Sunday for pre-cut and cut-your-own Balsam Fir. (Photo: Potash Creek Farm)
Located at 400 Grassy Road in Omemee, Potash Creek Farm is open on Saturday and Sunday for pre-cut and cut-your-own Balsam Fir. (Photo: Potash Creek Farm)

Besides helping the local economy (more than 600 Christmas tree farms in Ontario generate around $12 million), farm-grown natural Christmas tree have other benefits.

Christmas trees are one of the most environmentally friendly crops. It takes up to 10 years to grow each tree and, during this time, the trees remove carbon dioxide and airborne pollutants from the atmosphere (up to 13 tons per acre!) and provide protective havens for a wide variety of birds and mammals. It’s also a sustainable crop — for every tree that’s harvested, at least three seedlings are planted in its place.

Buying a tree from a nearby local farm is also more environmentally friendly than buying one shipped in from another part of the country, such as Quebec or the East Coast.

Natural Christmas trees are also 100 per cent recyclable and biodegradable. Most municipalities — including those in the Kawarthas region — collect discarded natural Christmas trees and chip them for use as mulching materials.

Discarded natural trees can also be used as bird feeders, wood products can be made from their stems, or they can be used as wildlife cover in fish ponds and woodlots.

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Common types of Christmas trees

A tree farmer prunes Balsam Fir trees, one of the most popular Christmas trees in Canada. (Photo: Blake Wile)
A tree farmer prunes Balsam Fir trees, one of the most popular Christmas trees in Canada. (Photo: Blake Wile)

If you do decide to harvest your own tree this year (or buy a pre-cut one), here’s a quick primer on the most common tree species available:

Balsam Fir – The Balsam Fir holds its dark-green needles well and is a good choice if the decorated tree will be left standing for a longer period of time. Balsam fir branches work well for lighter Christmas ornaments, and the tree has a strong fragrance.

Scots Pine (Scotch Pine) – The Scots Pine is a thick and hardy tree. It resists drying and holds its needles well over the holidays. However, the needles are tough and very pointy.

Fraser Fir – A Christmas tree that’s become very popular in recent years, the Fraser Fir is known for holding its attractive dark blue-green needles and its pleasant scent. Fraser Firs are generally more expensive than other trees as the species has a much longer growing cycle.

Norway Spruce – The traditional Christmas tree in Britain, the Norway spruce is attractive but has a tendency to drop its needles, particularly towards the end of the holidays — especially if the tree is not cut fresh and kept properly watered.

White Spruce – The dense foliage and symmetrical proportions of the White Spruce make it a very beautiful Christmas tree. The tree has a strong scent and its strong slender twigs hold ornaments well. However, the White Spruce is very thirsty and must be watered regularly to prevent it from losing its needles.

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Caring for your tree

Oake Family Tree Farm at 2474 Sherbrooke Street West in Cavan-Monaghan Township offers pre-cut Balsam Fir and Fraser Fir and cut-your-own Blue Spruce. (Photo: Oake Family Tree Farm)
Oake Family Tree Farm at 2474 Sherbrooke Street West in Cavan-Monaghan Township offers pre-cut Balsam Fir and Fraser Fir and cut-your-own Blue Spruce. (Photo: Oake Family Tree Farm)

After you get your tree, follow these tips to keep it fresh and safe:

  1. If you aren’t setting up the tree immediately, store it outdoors. Keep it in a protected area, away from the wind and sun, to help the tree retain its moisture (an unheated garage is ideal, particularly to keep the tree free of snow). If you plan to store it outside for several days, make a straight cut across the butt end of the tree about one inch from the end, place the butt end in a container of water, and store the tree upright.
  2. When you bring the tree into the house for decorating, make another fresh cut across the trunk, about an inch from the original cut.
  3. Trees can drink up to four litres of water per day, so be sure to use a large stand that can hold that much water. Check the water level daily and supply fresh water as needed. Don’t allow the water level to drop below the bottom of the tree, as a seal will form on the bottom and the tree will stop absorbing water (you’ll have to make a new cut).
  4. Use only fresh water. Don’t add sugar, molasses, bleach, honey, floral preservatives, or other substances to the tree’s water. Experts agree these additives do nothing to maintain the freshness of the tree.
  5. Place your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, television sets, and other sources of heat. Turn off the tree lights when you leave and before you retire at night. Under no circumstances should you use lighted candles on a Christmas tree.
  6. A well-maintained tree should normally remain fresh at least three to four weeks before drying to an unacceptable level. Test the dryness of the tree by running your fingers across the needles. If they break easily or fall off in your hand, the tree is dry and should be discarded.

Winter weather travel advisory in effect for northern Kawarthas region Tuesday afternoon

By kawarthaNOW -

Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for the northern Kawarthas region beginning Tuesday afternoon (November 21).

The winter weather travel advisory is in effect for northern Peterborough County, northern Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands.

Total snowfall amounts of 4 to 8 cm are expected beginning Tuesday afternoon, with peak snowfall rates of 2 cm per hour. Snowfall accumulations could be limited due to warm surface temperatures.

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Snow will begin to switch to rain later Tuesday evening and into the overnight hours, although in areas over higher terrain the precipitation will likely remain as snow.

Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.

Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.

Police seeking suspect in two gas thefts on Highway 401 in Port Hope

By kawarthaNOW -
The suspect in two gas thefts from a business on Highway 401 in Port Hope on September 25 and November 6, 2023. (Police-supplied photos)

Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in two gas thefts from a business on Highway 401 in Port Hope.

Thefts of gas on September 25 and November 6 were reported to Northumberland Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

The suspect in the thefts was driving a white Honda Pilot.

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Police are continuing to investigate the thefts.

Anyone who has information about the suspect’s identity or has any further information about the incidents is asked to call the Northumberland OPP at 905-372-5421 or the non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122.

If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your information online at stopcrimehere.ca. You will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.

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