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Peterborough police investigating distribution of antisemitic pamphlets over Canada Day long weekend

For the third time since May, Peterborough police are investigating a hate/bias incident after receiving reports of antisemitic pamphlets being distributed in a Peterborough neighbourhood — this time over the Canada Day long weekend.

The antisemitic pamphlets were reported in the area of Parkhill Road West and Crowley Crescent and in the Medical Drive and Weller Street area. Police believe the pamphlets were distributed sometime during Saturday night into early Sunday morning.

Over the weekend of May 13 and 14, police first received reports of antisemitic pamphlets being delivered in neighbourhoods in the Lansdowne Street and George Street area, as well as in East City. Over the weekend of June 17 and 18, police also received reports of antisemitic pamphlets begin distributed in the Wolsely Street and Chemong Road area.

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In total, police have has received 19 reports from residents and have canvassed in the areas for video and further information.

“There is no room for hate in our community at any time,” says Peterborough police chief Stuart Betts in a media release. “The number one goal of the Peterborough Police Service is public safety, and the service is committed to this goal.”

Peterborough police have provided a map to show the community the approximate locations of the reports by month.

Peterborough police have created this map showing the city neighbourhoods where antisemitic pamphlets have been reported in May, June, and July 2023. (Police-supplied map)
Peterborough police have created this map showing the city neighbourhoods where antisemitic pamphlets have been reported in May, June, and July 2023. (Police-supplied map)
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On Tuesday (July 4), Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal issued a statement about the antisemitic pamphlets.

“I am saddened and disgusted to learn that antisemitic hate literature has been distributed in our community,” Leal says, adding he has been in contact with the police. “Racism and discrimination of any kind have no place in Peterborough. We stand with our city’s Jewish community and strongly condemn all forms of hate.”

Anyone with information about these incidents or any video is asked to call Peterborough police at 705-876-1122 ext. 555. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at stopcrimehere.ca.

Residents can also report hate/bias incidents through the Peterborough Police Service’s online reporting portal at peterboroughpolice.com/en/report/online-reporting.aspx.

Head to Keene on Sunday for Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show

Enthusiasts from across Ontario wlll be showcasing their antique and classic cars and vintage motorcycles at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene during the annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 9, 2023. (Photo: Hailey Doughty)

If you love vintage cars and motorcycles, head to Keene on Sunday (July 9) for Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s 26th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., enthusiasts from across Ontario will be showcasing their antique and classic cars and vintage motorcycles throughout the historic village, where you can vote for your favourite car and motorcycle. Over 25 trophies will be awarded, including the coveted People’s Choice and Lang’s Choice awards.

While the car and motorcycle show is a highlight of the day, Transportation Day has even more to offer. You can also learn more about how transportation has changed over the years and the roles various trades have played in the creation of transportation methods. Take a leisurely stroll to explore the village or hop on board a horse-drawn wagon ride.

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At the Transportation Barn, you can browse a variety of 19th-century modes of transportation including sleighs, wagons, and milk carts. Visit the VIA Rail display at the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building, where you can also enjoy music from the ’50s to ’80s with DJ Del and Jenny Jams.

An antique clock and timepiece collection will be on display in the Menie General Store, and you can watch a variety of historic demonstrations throughout the village including broom making, shingle making at the Shingle Mill, grinding at the Lang Grist Mill, and weaving demonstrations on the Jacquard loom.

For the kids, there will be school lessons on pioneer travel and transportation, old-fashioned school yard games, and a craft-making activity at the Ayotte Cabin.

During the annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 9, 2023 at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene, visit the Transportation Barn to browse a variety of 19th-century modes of transportation including sleighs, wagons, and milk carts. (Photo: Lang Pioneer Village Museum)
During the annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 9, 2023 at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene, visit the Transportation Barn to browse a variety of 19th-century modes of transportation including sleighs, wagons, and milk carts. (Photo: Lang Pioneer Village Museum)

Food options (for an additional fee) include a pancake breakfast in the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building while supplies last, freshly popped kettle corn from Ben’s Kettle Corn, BBQ items from the Keene Lions Club food truck, fresh Empire Cheese curds in the Cheese Factory, and refreshments and sweet treats at the Keene Hotel.

New this year, Haven Brewing Company will be selling traditional European beers in the beer garden.

Admission costs $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors 60 and older, and $7 for children and youth ages five to 14, with free admission for children under five. Family admission is also available for $40 and includes two adults and up to four children and youth. Visitors may purchase admission at the gates or in advance online.

Over 25 awards, including Best Motorcycle in Show, are available to be won during Lang Pioneer Village Museum's 26th annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 9, 2023 in Keene. (Photo: Lang Pioneer Village Museum)
Over 25 awards, including Best Motorcycle in Show, are available to be won during Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s 26th annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 9, 2023 in Keene. (Photo: Lang Pioneer Village Museum)
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If you’re a classic car or motorcycle enthusiast and want to display your vehicle, participant registration runs from 8 a.m. to noon. Space is limited and is available on a first-come first-served basis. The $10 registration fee includes admission into the village. The first 200 vehicles to enter will receive a complimentary dash plaque as a souvenir of their participation.

To purchase advance admission or for more information, including information for demonstrators, visit langpioneervillage.ca/plan-your-visit/events/car-show/.

Other special events at Lang Pioneer Village Museum this summer include Village by Lantern Light on Saturday, August 12th and a Corn Roast on Sunday, August 27th. Outside of special events, the museum’s summer hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays until September 3.

Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough is seeking a new general manager

Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough is seeking a new general manager to lead the region's premier mid-sized venue for the performing arts. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)

Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough is seeking a new general manager who is ready to “hit the ground running,” with the deadline to apply July 14.

Located at 290 George Street North, Showplace has been the region’s premier mid-sized venue for the performing arts since 1996. Showplace is an independent, incorporated not-for-profit organization and registered charity governed by a board of directors.

With a 632-seat mainstage theatre including a large stage, orchestra pit, and green room as well as a lower-level multi-purpose room with a seating capacity of 100, Showplace offers arts-related and community facility rentals for musical performances, dramatic productions, recitals, and meetings. A licensed foyer is on the main level with another licensed bar in the multi-purpose room. Showplace also provides a box office service with tickets available both on site and online.

Showplace Performance Centre recently replaced all the seats in its 632-seat mainstage theatre, which includes a large stage, orchestra pit, and green room. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)
Showplace Performance Centre recently replaced all the seats in its 632-seat mainstage theatre, which includes a large stage, orchestra pit, and green room. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)

Showplace has an annual operating budget of around $870,000 a year, including a service grant from the City of Peterborough, with facility rentals as its primary source of revenue.

The general manager, who leads Showplace’s team of two full-time and seven part-time staff and supports the organization’s 150 volunteers, is responsible for the operational leadership and overall management of the facility, directly supervising the front-of-house manager, the box office manager, the technical director, and the bookkeeper.

Reporting to the board of directors through the chairperson, the general manager’s responsibilities include programming and facility rentals, financial management, facility management, human resources, marketing and promotion, planning, and board relations.

Along with its 632-seat mainstage theatre, Showplace Performance Centre has a flexible lower-level multi-purpose room with a seating capacity of 100, perfect for meetings and more intimate performances. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)
Along with its 632-seat mainstage theatre, Showplace Performance Centre has a flexible lower-level multi-purpose room with a seating capacity of 100, perfect for meetings and more intimate performances. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)

Showplace is looking for candidates with a minimum of three years’ experience in a performing arts facility either as a general manager, an assistant general manager, or a facility manager, and with a minimum of three years of arts management experience in the not-for-profit sector. Candidates must have a post-secondary diploma or undergraduate degree in arts administration or business administration or the equivalent. A valid driver’s license and Smart Serve training are assets.

The ideal candidate is an experienced performance venue leader looking to build a legacy who is ready to “hit the ground running.” A team-oriented leader with strong organizational, analytical, planning, and grant-writing skills, the ideal candidate will be a great communicator who is personable and approachable, as well as a nimble problem-solver and creative thinker who is decisive and accountable and operates with integrity.

Candidates should be willing to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as required.

Showplace Performance Centre has a licensed foyer is on the main level (pictured) with another licensed bar in the lower-level multi-purpose room. Showplace also provides a box office service with tickets available both on site and online.  (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)
Showplace Performance Centre has a licensed foyer is on the main level (pictured) with another licensed bar in the lower-level multi-purpose room. Showplace also provides a box office service with tickets available both on site and online. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)

Showplace has recently undertaken major renovations including brand new seats in the mainstage theatre, a new marquee, and new HVAC units. The organization has also just launched a year long consultant-led strategic planning process that will include an environmental scan, operational review, business continuity plan, and audience development review.

This full-time permanent position has an annual salary of $60,000 to $70,000, with salary and benefits package negotiable. To apply, email a single PDF containing both your cover letter and resume to jobs@showplace.org no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, July 14th. The PDF file should be named with your surname and first name (i.e., SurnameFirstname.pdf).

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted, and they will receive a detailed job description. Candidates are asked to refrain from follow-up inquiries regarding application status. All applications are considered confidential. Showplace in an equal opportunity employer. If you need accommodation to participate in the application process, let Showplace know in your email when submitting your application.

Located at 290 George Street North in downtown Peterborough, Showplace Performance Centre has been the region's premier mid-sized venue for the performing arts since 1996. Showplace is an independent, incorporated not-for-profit organization and registered charity governed by a board of directors. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)
Located at 290 George Street North in downtown Peterborough, Showplace Performance Centre has been the region’s premier mid-sized venue for the performing arts since 1996. Showplace is an independent, incorporated not-for-profit organization and registered charity governed by a board of directors. (Photo courtesy of Showplace Performance Centre)

 

This branded editorial was created in partnership with Showplace Performance Centre. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.

Heat warning in effect for Kawarthas region beginning Tuesday

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the entire Kawarthas region beginning Tuesday (July 4).

The heat warning is in effect for Peterborough County, Kawarthas Lakes, Northumberland County, Hastings Highlands, and southern Haliburton County.

A two- or three-day hot and humid event is expected to begin on Tuesday and last into Wednesday or possibly Thursday for eastern regions.

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Maximum temperatures will be the high twenties to low thirties, with humidex values in the high thirties to low forties. Minimum temperatures overnight, in the high teens to low twenties, will bring little relief.

These hot and humid conditions will begin to end from west to east Wednesday night.

Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high risk category.

Extreme heat affects everyone. Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.

Travel back to the 1970s at Fenelon Falls’ new Instagrammable retro record shop

Husband-and-wife duo Cody Valliant and Maggie McCallum are taking customers back in time with EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls. The store sells used and new vinyl records from both big names and indie artists in a vibrant and welcoming space. But the retro store offers more than vinyl, as the space hosts regular live performance from local musicians, and offers venders selling everything from clothing, jewellery, accessories, décor, artwork, and even hot sauce. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)

A new record shop in Fenelon Falls is taking visitors back in time to an age of big hair, groovy bellbottoms, and soulfully good music. Not only is EastEnd Electric Records the new go-to spot for used and new records, it’s also a ’70s photo op, performance stage, and celebration of independent artists.

Even from the outside of the building, the vibrant orange brick and rainbow logo tell customers that EastEnd Electric Records is not like any other music store. Described by co-owner Cody Valliant as an “Instagrammable, experiential, destination record shop,” with swanky blue walls adorned with movie posters and a ceiling tiled with album covers, EastEnd Electric Records is a retro blast from the past.

“We really have a fondness for retro culture and design,” explains Vaillant, who also works as a sound operator for The Grove Theatre in Fenelon Falls. “Before we moved here, our apartment was virtually a one-to-one re-creation of what you see in the shop — the same colours, the same design elements, some of the same furniture and artwork. And we decided to bring our living room to the community and invite people to come in and sit down, have a coffee, enjoy a show, and browse a great selection of both new and used records, including independent and unsigned acts.”

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Vaillant owns the space alongside his wife, Maggie McCallum, a graphic designer from Janetville. The couple met in Toronto and bonded over their shared passion.

“We’re both huge music fans,” explains McCallum. “He’s a musician and I’ve always loved ’70s and ’80s music and it just kind of grew from there, and we wanted to create a space where people can buy all this great music that we grew up with.”

Living costs encouraged the couple to alter their original plan of opening the store in Toronto. They were looking to buy a house in the Kawarthas when their real estate agent casually mentioned an available commercial space in the village of Fenelon Falls that was being used for storage. The couple took a chance and began planning EastEnd Electric Records the very next day.

Located at 14 Oak Street in Fenelon Falls, EastEnd Electric Records is a new vintage record store that offers an "Instagrammable" space for music lovers and independent artists. The store is also a venue for regular live performances from local musicians and provides vendor space for other local creatives. Customers can even pick up vintage clothing curated by co-owner Maggie McCallum herself.  (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)
Located at 14 Oak Street in Fenelon Falls, EastEnd Electric Records is a new vintage record store that offers an “Instagrammable” space for music lovers and independent artists. The store is also a venue for regular live performances from local musicians and provides vendor space for other local creatives. Customers can even pick up vintage clothing curated by co-owner Maggie McCallum herself. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)

Though vinyl records might seem outdated in the age of Spotify and Apple Music, the couple explains that there’s a surprisingly big demand for the medium right now.

“I think people are kind of getting sick of the disconnect with the digital world these days,” McCallum says. “They’re looking towards that nostalgia of having that physical element to music, and even just being in a record store — it’s just that warm feeling that people seem to like so much.”

“Not to mention the draw of the aesthetic and the lifestyle that it brings to your home,” adds Valliant, sharing that music is a form of self-expression and a way to get to know each other.

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“They’re really discovering that ownership of a physical item (is more personal than the) ethereal idea of ownership that just exists in a cloud somewhere,” Valliant notes. “They’re making connections with the artwork, with the physical item itself. They’re learning the subtleties of each of their personal albums. Even on a bad copy of a good album, you’ll remember where that little click or pop is. It’ll become yours.”

The couple adds that in the short time EastEnd Electric Records has been open, they’ve enjoyed seeing and helping their customers branch out from their interests and discover new music.

“A lot of the youth are coming in looking for newer acts and newer albums, which we do carry,” explains Valliant. “But in that process, they get exposed to a lot of other genres like the older classic rock, country — even some punk rock or electronic. And I see their interests picking up again and they may come in and buy Boygenius or Kendrick Lamar, but then they end up taking a look at Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath.”

Inside EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls, customers can find a wide selection of used, new, and bootleg vinyl records. Co-owners Cody Valliant and Maggie McCallum explain that vinyl records have grown in popularity over the past few years as people want to get back the personal connection that comes from having their own physical copy of music. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)
Inside EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls, customers can find a wide selection of used, new, and bootleg vinyl records. Co-owners Cody Valliant and Maggie McCallum explain that vinyl records have grown in popularity over the past few years as people want to get back the personal connection that comes from having their own physical copy of music. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)

For those who may be unfamiliar with the vinyl medium, the store has listening corners where customers can jive while getting tutorials on how to use the equipment.

“We want to have a safe space where people can ask those questions and not feel silly for asking, especially women,” McCallum points out.

Customers can also get their groove on with regular live performances from local, independent artists right inside EastEnd Electric Records. Upcoming Saturday afternoon concerts include Rory Taillon (July 15), Cassie Noble with Kalyna Rakel and Dan Gurman (August 5), and The Soviet Influence (August 26). The all-ages alcohol-free shows all start at 2 p.m. and cost $10 at the door.

VIDEO: Po’Boy Jeffreys & Calamity Jane perform at EastEnd Electric Records

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But the shop’s support for the independent arts extends beyond music, as the couple rents out vender space to a range of small businesses. Between the rows of classic vinyl albums, customers will find “inappropriate home décor” from Subversive Sisters, scrap metal artwork of band logos, handmade jewellery, magazines, and even hot sauce. The store also sells CDs from local and indie artists who don’t yet have their music on vinyl.

“We are both independent artists so we both know how hard it is to make a go of that in a professional way,” explains Valliant, saying they are always on the search for new vendors.

29 Sparrows Leather Company has even created custom leather record mats and tote bags that are sold exclusively at EastEnd Electric Records. Customers can also find collections of vintage clothing, including some pieces that have been handmade by McCallum herself.

For those who may be unfamiliar with the vinyl medium, EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls has listening corners where customers can play records while getting tutorials on how to use the equipment. The store also offers T-shirts, tote bags, hats, patches, buttons, and more. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)
For those who may be unfamiliar with the vinyl medium, EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls has listening corners where customers can play records while getting tutorials on how to use the equipment. The store also offers T-shirts, tote bags, hats, patches, buttons, and more. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)
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Though McCallum and Valliant only began on their business venture, they already have plans to grow. Valliant explains that down the road a few years, he hopes to bring in an audio system that could record the store’s performers direct to vinyl.

“We want to help smaller artists that otherwise couldn’t afford such things,” Valliant says. “I’d like to use this stage as a ground to show that they’re talented artists and that there is interest in them. It’s kind of our way of shaping that local culture and music.”

EastEnd Electric Records is located at 14 Oak Street in Fenelon Falls. To browse and shop online, visit eastendelectricrecords.com. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls also offers regular live performances from local artists on a groovy stage inside the store. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)
EastEnd Electric Records in Fenelon Falls also offers regular live performances from local artists on a groovy stage inside the store. (Photo courtesy of EastEnd Electric Records)

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it: Dwayne Gretzky returns to play Peterborough Musicfest for the fourth time

Toronto music collective Dwayne Gretzky returns to Peterborough Musicfest for the fourth time to perform unique covers of classic hit songs in Del Crary Park on on July 5, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Musicfest)

If the past 12 years has taught us anything about Dwayne Gretzky, it’s that there isn’t a stage the Toronto-based pop-rock time machine doesn’t love to be on.

For Peterborough Musicfest, that feeling is mutual as ‘Canada’s reigning champs of nostalgia’ prepare to make a fourth festival appearance — their third since 2018 — at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5th.

Playing anywhere and everywhere, and at all points in between, Dwayne Gretzky has garnered a huge following by breathing exhilarating new life into classic hits, its repertoire comprised of 700-plus songs and counting.

Drawing upon a shared love of the music that has defined decades past, each member brings to the table not only extraordinary talent but also a selfless willingness to allow any one of their number to grab the spotlight.

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Formed on a whim by friends, Dwayne Gretzky began with a residency at Toronto’s famed Dakota Tavern, followed by a regular gig at The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern, another of the big city’s live music landmarks. Word quickly spread and more gigs followed, both in and beyond Toronto.

In an October 2019 interview with Jamie Lawlis of Spill Magazine, Lindsay-raised original member Nick Rose noted that while each band member has had his or her own creative projects on the go since, Dwayne Gretzky “is this fun thing … we all come together in the sense of it being more our day job.”

“It sort of pays the bills and it’s the thing we spent a lot of time and energy on, but it’s important that everyone in the band have their own creative outlets, whether it’s writing and arranging music and so on.”

VIDEO: “Listen To The Music” by The Doobie Brothers – Dwayne Gretzky

A typical set list, explains Rose, features “music that was in our parents’ record collection, everything from Fleetwood Mac to Paul Simon to The Bee Gees.” As the years passed, the band set its sights on performing music from more recent decades.

In 2019, Dwayne Gretkzy released its debut self-titled album, the tracks ranging from The Beatles’ “Please Please Me” to ELO’s “Livin’ Thing” to The Cars’ “Just What I Needed.”

While the pandemic put a halt to live performances, it provided an opportunity to take things to a new level. On New Year’s Eve in 2020, and again in 2021, the band livestreamed a marathon performance via YouTube from its rehearsal space in Toronto.

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What was a best-kept secret was no longer so and the phone has rang incessantly since.

“We started out doing Van Morrison, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen,” notes Rose. “We started with the roots rock artists that we love. We just try to push the envelope and try different things — Don’t Stop (by Fleetwood Mac) and Bohemian Rhapsody from Queen, to Whitney Houston, to Toto, and wild ’80s stuff that is difficult to pull off. That forced us to challenge ourselves.”

While Dwayne Gretzky is often labelled a cover or tribute band, that description does a grave injustice to the band’s unique interpretations of classic songs — a process that often sees slower chord arrangements at its core.

VIDEO: “Once In A Lifetime” by Talking Heads performed by Dwayne Gretzy

“That’s all very deliberate,” explains Rose. “We feel very fortunate that we stumbled into this something that there’s a demand for, and we do it well within the confines of being a cover band.”

In an April 2013 interview with Sara Harowitz for She Does The City, band members Allie Hughes and Robyn Hatch note that, the band’s sound aside, the dynamic is the game changer.

“It’s fun ’cause it’s all your best friends,” says Hatch, with Hughes adding, “It’s the best hang ever … We all get along really well.”

“And it’s so informative, as a music writer, learning new songs,” Hughes explains. “You learn so much about writing good music. I know there are some musicians who are like ‘A cover band?’ but all of us have no shame. It’s a lot tougher than people think. These are pop songs but a lot goes into them.”

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In a July 2018 interview with The Pop Break, Rose explains what he loves about being in Dwayne Gretzky.

“We’re very fortunate that we get to do this as a full time gig — play our favourite songs with our best buds,” he says. “We’ve got a really great group of people in this band and I’m very grateful for that. They’re all a bunch of sweethearts and there is never a shortage of dumb jokes to go around.”

Dwayne Gretzky is being presented on Invest In Musicfest Night that will provide attendees the opportunity to make a donation, of any amount, with all proceeds going toward the signing of premier artists for future concerts. That initiative aside, as has been the case since 1987, admission to all Musicfest concerts is free, and will remain so, thanks in no small way to the generous support of all levels of government and some 100 sponsors including kawarthaNOW.

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Peterborough Musicfest is presenting 15 free-admission concerts during its 36th season, each staged on Wednesday and Saturday nights until August 19th, and supported by more than 100 sponsors, kawarthaNOW among them.

Overseen by general manager Tracey Randall and staff, a board of directors, and numerous volunteers, Peterborough Musicfest’s stated mission remains “to provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community.”

For more information on this concert or the entire 2023 season, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca or phone the Peterborough Musicfest office at 705-755-1111.

 

kawarthaNOW is proud to be a headline sponsor of Peterborough Musicfest’s 2023 season.

Severe thunderstorm watch for part of Kawarthas region Saturday afternoon and evening

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for part of the Kawarthas region for Saturday afternoon and evening (July 1).

The severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for all of Peterborough County, Northumberland County, and Hastings Highlands. Currently, Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County are not included in the watch.

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts up to 90 km/h, nickel to toonie size hail, and heavy rain with torrential downpours.

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Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!

Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.

Instagram inspiration for Canada Day in the Kawarthas

What could be more quintessentially Canadian than this photo posted by Kawarthas photographer Fred Thornhill on Instagram in July 2021? (Photo: Fred Thornhill @kawarthavisions / Instagram)

What does the Canadian flag mean to you?

There is no doubt that the Canadian flag has been surrounded with controversy since it was first conceived in 1963, when Canada began the process of creating its own flag to replace the British Union Jack. When Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson proposed a flag designed around the maple leaf, it quickly became a divisive issue for Canadians.

Pearson’s preferred design of three maple leaves was ultimately rejected in favour of a design proposed by historian George Stanley that featured a single maple leaf flanked by red bars. A lengthy and ugly parliamentary debate on the design began in June 1964 and continued for six months until Pearson finally forced a vote. The new flag was inaugurated on February 15, 1965, a date that has been commemorated as National Flag of Canada Day since 1996.

Over the past few years, the flag has also been used by special interest groups that have co-opted it for their promotional use. The flag is not a promotional or marketing symbol — it is the ensign of our country. It belongs to all the people, not just a few. Please display and fly your flag proudly this year.

We think that there is nothing better than seeing the Canadian flag in the wild — our natural wild, The Kawarthas. So I’ve picked out some of my personal past faves and gathered them for your viewing pleasure. I hope you enjoy and wish you a Happy Canada Day!

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#1. Bass Lake on Canada Day by Fred Thornhill @kawarthavisions

Posted July 2, 2021

 

#2. The most Canadian stack of firewood by Kirk Hillsley @kirkhillsley

Posted November 28, 2022

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#3. Canadian flag rainbow by Tedward @rustydawg55555

Posted June 4, 2019

 

#4. Proud to be Canadian by Barry Killen @theburleighridge_beareh

Posted July 21, 2018

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#5. Sunset before the Canada Day long weekend by Barry Killen @theburleighridge_beareh

Posted June 29, 2019

 

#6. A land of trees, water, peace and tranquility by Caroline Goodenough @goodenough.images

Posted July 1, 2020

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#7. True north strong and free by Style And Grace @sarah_styleandgrace

Posted July 1, 2019

 

#8. Boaters on Pigeon Lake, Bobcaygeon by Andrea McClure @andrea_mcclure

Posted July 1, 2020

 

#9. Home sweet home by Fred Thornhill @kawarthavisions

Posted July 24, 2022

One person dead in two-vehicle collision on Highway 35 south of Coboconk

The Canada Day long weekend has begun in tragedy after one person died in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 35 south of Coboconk on Friday afternoon (June 30).

The two-vehicle collision resulted in the death of one driver, according to Kawartha Lakes Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

The driver of the other vehicle was transported via ambulance to a local area hospital with unknown injuries.

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Highway 35 is currently closed between Somerville Concession 3 and Somerville Concession 5 while police investigate and document the scene.

Police expect the highway will remain closed for several hours into Friday evening.

Anyone who may have witnessed or has video/dash camera footage of the collision and has not spoken with police is asked to contact the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP Detachment at 1-888-310-1122.

The Beach Report for June 30 to July 6, 2023

Victoria Park Beach in Cobourg. (Photo: Town of Cobourg)

Every Friday during swimming season, we post The Beach Report™ — our weekly report of the results of water quality testing at beaches in the greater Kawarthas region< and update it throughout the week as conditions change.

As of Thursday, July 6, the following beaches are unsafe for swimming:

  • Norwood Beach at Mill Pond – Peterborough County
  • Beach Park – Bobcaygeon – Kawartha Lakes
  • Harwood Waterfront & Dock – Hamilton Township – Northumberland County
  • Hastings Waterfront North – Trent Hills – Northumberland County
  • West Beach – Port Hope – Northumberland County
  • Wicklow Beach – Alnwick-Haldimand – – Northumberland County
  • Centennial Park, Deseronto – Bay of Quinte – Hastings County and Prince Edward County
  • Tweed Park – Stoco Lake – Hastings County and Prince Edward County
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Below are the complete results of water quality testing at beaches in the City and County of Peterborough, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, Northumberland County, and Hastings County and Prince Edward County.

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

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

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health provides weekly testing results for beaches in Hastings County and Prince Edward County.

During the summer, local health units sample water at area beaches and test for bacteria such as E. coli to determine if the water quality at a beach is safe for public use. Popular beaches, like the beach at Roger's Cove in Peterborough's East City, are tested every business day while most other beaches are tested weekly. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)
During the summer, local health units sample water at area beaches and test for bacteria such as E. coli to determine if the water quality at a beach is safe for public use. Popular beaches, like the beach at Roger’s Cove in Peterborough’s East City, are tested every business day while most other beaches are tested weekly. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)

Important note

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

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

While we strive to update this story with the current conditions, you should confirm the most recent test results by visiting the local health unit websites at Peterborough Public Health, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit. and Hastings Prince Edward Public Health. As noted above, the beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead are tested every business day so the results listed below may not be current.

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Peterborough City/County

City of Peterborough Beaches (sampled each business day)

Beavermead Park (2011 Ashburnham Drive, Peterborough) – sample date 5 July – SAFE

Rogers Cove (131 Maria Street, Peterborough) – sample date 5 July – SAFE

Peterborough County Beaches (sampled weekly)

Buckhorn Beach (12 John Street, Buckhorn, Municipality of Trent Lakes) – sample date 4 July – SAFE

Crowe’s Line Beach (240 Crowe’s Line Road, Trent Lakes) – sample date 4 July – SAFE

Douro North Park (251 Douro Second Line, Township of Douro – Dummer) – sample date 5 July – SAFE

Ennismore Waterfront Park (1053 Ennis Road, Ennismore) – sample date 29 June – SAFE

Henry’s Gumming (150 Chemong Street S, Curve Lake) – sample date 4 July – SAFE

Hiawatha Park (1 Lakeshore Road, Hiawatha) – sample date 5 July – SAFE

Jones Beach (908 Jones Beach Road, Bridgenorth) – sample date 29 June – SAFE

Lakefield Park (100 Hague Boulevard, Lakefield) – sample date 29 June – SAFE

Lime Kiln Park (150 Whetung Street E, Curve Lake) – sample date 4 July – SAFE

Norwood Beach at Mill Pond (12 Belmont Street, Norwood) – sample date 5 July – UNSAFE

Sandy Beach (1239 Lakehurst Road, Municipality of Trent Lakes) – sample date 4 July – SAFE

Selwyn Beach Conservation Area (2251 Birch Island Road, Selwyn) – sample date 27 June – SAFE

Squirrel Creek Conservation Area (2445 Wallace Point Road, South Monaghan) – sample date 5 July – SAFE

Warsaw Caves Conservation Area (289 Caves Road, Warsaw, Township of Douro – Dummer) – sample date 5 July – SAFE

Peterborough County Beaches (sampled monthly)

Belmont Lake (376 Mile of Memories Road, Belmont) – sample date 8 June – SAFE

Chandos Beach (2800 County Road/Highway 620, North Kawartha) – sample date 1 June – SAFE

Kasshabog Lake (431 Peninsula Road, Havelock) – sample date 1 June – SAFE

Quarry Bay (1986 Northey’s Bay Road, Woodview) – sample date 1 June – SAFE

White’s Beach (26 Clearview Drive, Trent Lakes) – sample date 2 June – SAFE

 

City of Kawartha Lakes

Beach Park – Bobcaygeon – sample date June 26 – UNSAFE

Birch Point – Fenelon Falls – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Blanchards Road Beach – Bexley – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Bond Street – Fenelon Falls – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Burnt River Beach – Somerville – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Centennial Park West – Eldon – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Centennial Beach – Verulam – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Centennial Verulam Parkette – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Four Mile Lake Beach – Somerville – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Head Lake Beach – Laxton – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Norland Bathing Area – Laxton – sample date June 22 – SAFE

Omemee Beach – Emily/Omemee – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Riverview Beach Park – Bobycaygeon – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Sturgeon Point Beach – Fenelon Falls – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Valentia/Sandbar Beach – Valentia – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Verulam Recreational Park – Verulam – sample date June 26 – SAFE

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Haliburton County

Bissett Beach – Minden Hills – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Dorset Parkette – Algonquin Highlands – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Eagle Lake Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Elvin Johnson Park – Algonquin Highlands – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Forsters Beach – Minden Hills – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Glamour Lake Beach – Highlands East – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Gooderham Lake Beach – Highlands East – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Haliburton Lake Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Horseshoe Beach – Minden Hills – sample date June 19 – SAFE

Paudash Lake Beach – Highlands East – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Pine Lake Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 21 – SAFE

Rotary Head Lake Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Rotary Park Lagoon – Minden Hills – sample date June 29 SAFE

Rotary Park Main – Minden Hills – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Sandy Cove Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Sandy Point Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 27 – SAFE

Slipper Beach – Dysart et al – sample date June 19 – SAFE

Twelve Mile Lake Beach – Minden Hills – sample date June 19 – SAFE

Wilbermere Lake Beach – Highlands East – sample date June 27 – SAFE

 

Northumberland County

Caldwell Street Beach – Port Hope – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Crowe Bridge Park – Trent Hills – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Harwood Waterfront & Dock – Hamilton Township – sample date June 26 – UNSAFE

Hastings Waterfront North – Trent Hills – sample date June 26 – UNSAFE

Hastings Waterfront South – Trent Hills – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Little Lake – Cramahe – sample date June 26 – SAFE

East Beach – Port Hope – sample date June 26 – SAFE

West Beach – Port Hope – sample date June 26 – UNSAFE

Sandy Bay Beach – Alnwick-Haldimand – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Victoria Park – Cobourg – sample date June 26 – SAFE

Wicklow Beach – Alnwick-Haldimand – sample date June 26 – UNSAFE

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Hastings County and Prince Edward County

Booster Park Beach – Crowe Lake – SAFE

Centennial Park, Deseronto – Bay of Quinte – UNSAFE

Centennial Park, Northport – Bay of Quinte – SAFE

Diamond Lake Beach – Diamond Lake – SAFE

Echo Beach – Papineau Lake – SAFE

Fosters Lake Beach – Fosters Lake – SAFE

Frankford Park – Trent River – SAFE

Hinterland Beach – Kaminiskeg Lake – SAFE

Kingsford Conservation Area – Salmon River – SAFE

L’Amable Lake Dam – L’Amable Lake – SAFE

Legion Park, Marmora – Crowe River – SAFE

Moira Lake Park – Moira Lake – SAFE

Riverside Park – York River – SAFE

Roblin Lake Park – Roblin Lake – SAFE

Steenburgh Lake – SAFE

Tweed Park – Stoco Lake – UNSAFE

Wellington Beach – Wellington Bay – SAFE

Wollaston Lake Beach – Wollaston Lake – SAFE

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