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nightlifeNOW – July 21 to 27

Al Black & The Steady Trio will be performing at Moody's Bar & Grill in Millbrook the afternoon of Saturday, July 23. (Photo via Al Black on Facebook)

Every Thursday, we publish live music events at pubs and restaurants in Peterborough and the greater Kawarthas region based on information that venues provide to us directly or post on their website or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, July 21 to Wednesday, July 27.

If you’re a pub or restaurant owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, please email our nightlifeNOW editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com. For concerts and live music events at other venues, check out our Concerts & Live Music page.

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Arthur's Pub

930 Burnham St., Cobourg
(905) 372-2105

Thursday, July 21

8-10pm - Open mic w/ Bruce Longman

Friday, July 22

8-10pm - Brian Ferris

Saturday, July 23

8-10pm - Darren Bailey

Coming Soon

Thursday, July 28
8-10pm - Open mic w/ Bruce Longman

Friday, July 29
8-10pm - Davey Boy

Saturday, July 20
8-10pm - Bruce Longman

Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub

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

Coming Soon

Friday, July 29
6-9 pm - David Byrski & Brad Purchase

Beamish House Pub

27 John St., Port Hope
905-885-8702

Sunday, July 24

4-7pm - Dave Mowat and Clayton Yates

Black Horse Pub

452 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 742-0633

Thursday, July 21

7-10pm - Jazz Night

Friday, July 22

5-8pm - Hillary Dumoulin; 9pm - Rick & Gailie

Saturday, July 23

5-8pm - Joslynn Burford & Joan Lamore; 9pm - Gunslingers

Sunday, July 24

4-7pm - Jamie Shea

Monday, July 25

6-9pm - Rick & Gailie's Crash & Burn

Tuesday, July 26

7-10pm - Open stage

Wednesday, July 27

6-9pm - Irish Millie

Coming Soon

Friday, July 29
3-6pm - James Higgins; 9pm - Peter and The Wolves

Saturday, July 30
Live music TBA

Sunday, July 31
4-7pm - Hillary Dumoulin

Wednesday, August 3
6-9pm - Northern Creatures

Canoe & Paddle

18 Bridge St., Lakefield
(705) 651-1111

Saturday, July 23

7pm - Tami J Wilde

The Cow & Sow Eatery

38 Colborne St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-5111

Friday, July 22

6-9pm - Sean Jamieson

Coming Soon

Friday, July 29
6-9pm - Jesse Byers

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Crook & Coffer

231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
705-876-0505

Thursday, July 21

7:30pm - Live music TBA

Saturday, July 23

7:30pm - Brennon Wasson

Daisy's Dockside Patio at Bonnie View Inn

2713 Kashagawigamog Lake Rd., Haliburton
800-461-0347

Wednesday, July 27

5:30-8:30pm - Dan O'Neil & Jeff Moulton

Coming Soon

Wednesday, August 3
5:30-8:30pm - Nick Russell & Jeff Knights

Dominion Hotel

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

Saturday, July 23

7:30pm - Chris Davis Band

Tuesday, July 26

5pm - Tiki Tuesday w/ Jeff Moulton ($10)

Wednesday, July 27

7pm - Eric Casper

Coming Soon

Saturday, July 30
7:30pm - Bill Black

Tuesday, August 2
5pm - Tiki Tuesday w/ Bill Nadeau and his Digital Backup Band ($10)

Ganaraska Hotel

30 Ontario St., Port Hope
(905) 885-9254

Saturday, July 23

2-6pm - Marty and the Mojos

Gordon Best Theatre

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

Thursday, July 21

8pm - Apollo Ghosts, Martian Broadcloak, and Effigy Girl ($12 in advance at www.bestptbo.com/upcomingevents/apollo-ghosts-martian-broadcloak-and-earthen-dolls-live-gbt or PWYC at door)

Coming Soon

Sunday, August 7
7:30pm - Flamenco Vivo! music and dance ($25 in advance at www.bestptbo.com/upcomingevents/flamenco-vivo)

Saturday, August 27
8pm - Dee's Fresh Air Fantasy Album Release Party ($15 in advance at www.bestptbo.com/upcomingevents/dee-fresh-air-fantasy-album-release-party)

Thursday, September 1
8:30pm - The Everything Bagel ($10 at the door or PWYC or in advance at www.bestptbo.com/upcomingevents/the-everything-bagel)

Graz Restobar

38 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon
705-738-6343

Sunday, July 24

3pm - Sonny and Cloudy.

Haliburton Highlands Brewing

1067 Garden Gate Dr., Haliburton
705-754-2739

Friday, July 22

7-9pm - Woody Woodburn

Saturday, July 23

7-9pm - Woody Woodburn

Sunday, July 24

2-4pm - Loney, Love & Love

Coming Soon

Friday, July 29
7-9pm - The Emburys

Saturday, July 30
7-9pm - Carl Dixon

Sunday, July 31
2-4pm - Laura Keating

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Huck's Bar and Lakeside Restaurant

17 Fire Route 82B, Buckhorn
705- 931-4455

Friday, July 22

5-8pm - Wylie Harold

Saturday, July 23

5-8pm - High Waters Trio

Coming Soon

Friday, July 29
5-8pm - Brandon Agnew

Saturday, July 30
5-8pm - Irish Millie

Jethro's Bar + Stage

137 Hunter St. W., Peterborough

Thursday, July 21

6-8pm - Chris Collins; 9pm - The Union

Friday, July 22

6-8pm - Runaway Twain; 8-10pm - David Newberry; 10pm - Jesse Corrigan & The Neustadt Sound

Saturday, July 23

6-8pm - Angie Hilts; 9pm - Michael C Duguay and the TMI String Band w/ Weird Lines & Jose Contreras

Tuesday, July 26

8-10pm - Comedy open mic w/ host Shawn J. Thompson

Wednesday, July 27

6-8pm - Burton, Glasspool, Davis; 9pm - Undercover Wednesdays w/ Matt Holtby

Coming Soon

Thursday, July 28
6-8pm - Live music TBA; 9pm - The Union

Friday, July 29
6-8pm - Peter Graham Band; 9pm - Ace of Wands w/ guest SJ Riley

Saturday, July 30
6-8pm - Brandon Agnew; 9pm - Brandon Humphrey & Hilary Dumoulin

Kelly's Homelike Inn

205 3rd Street, Cobourg
905-372-3234

Saturday, July 23

4-8pm - The Spirits

The Lunchbox - Takeout Restaurant

8965 Highway 45, Roseneath
249-487-0024

Saturday, July 23

12-4pm - Cale Crowe

Coming Soon

Saturday, July 30
12-4pm - Joe McCauley

McThirsty's Pint

166 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 743-2220

Thursday, July 21

8pm - Owen Wright

Memories Tea Room and Bakery

33057 Highway 62, Maynooth
613-412-9700

Sunday, July 24

2-4pm - Music on the Lawn (weather permitting, bring your own lawn chair)

Moody's Bar & Grill

3 Tupper St., Millbrook
(705) 932-6663

Saturday, July 23

2-5pm - Al Black & The Steady Trio

VIDEO: Al Black and The Steady Trio

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Oasis Bar & Grill

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

Sunday, July 24

6-9pm - PHLO

The Publican House

300 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 874-5743

Thursday, July 21

7-9pm - Joel Parkes

Friday, July 22

7-9pm - House Brand Trio

Coming Soon

Thursday, July 28
7-9pm - JJ Thompson

Friday, July 29
7-9pm - The Boogie Time Ramblers

Red Dog Tavern

189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 741-6400

Friday, July 22

9pm - Misfits in Action

Saturday, July 23

9pm - 420Klick, Pound Banga, Roney

Wednesday, July 27

9pm - Open mic hosted by Samara Johnson

Coming Soon

Thursday, July 28
9pm - NERiMA, Roach, Rikashay, BUSM

Saturday, July 30
8pm - Those Dam Beavers

Wednesday, August 3
8pm - Five Alarm Funk, rescheduled from March 18 ($20 in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/36526/)

Saturday, August 13
9pm - The Maximum Chill, Propter Hawk, Burning Bridges ($10 at door)

Friday, September 9
9pm - Anvil w/ Big Motor Gasoline ($25 in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/41148/)

Friday, September 23
8pm - Elliott Brood ($20 in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/36984/)

Riverside Inn & Gazebo

150 George St, Peterborough
705-740-6564

Thursday, July 21

6-10pm - Pangea Project

Friday, July 22

6-10pm - Acoustically Hip

Sunday, July 24

1-4pm - Donny Woods Band

Scenery Drive Restaurant

6193 County Road 45, Baltimore
905-349-2217

Coming Soon

Saturday, July 23
5-8pm - Greg Hannah

Sideways Bar & Grill

18-22 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 947-2333

Tuesday, July 26

7:30-10:30pm - Karaoke

Silver Bean Cafe (unlicensed)

130 King St. (Millennium Park), Peterborough
705-749-0535

Coming Soon

Sunday, August 7
12-2pm - The Wild Cards

Sunday, August 14
12-2pm - Taylor Abrahamse

Sticks Sports Pub

500 George St. S., Peterborough
(705) 775-7845

Friday, July 22

6-9pm - Tami J Wilde

That Little Pub

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

Wednesday, July 27

7-10pm - Live music TBA

The Thirsty Goose

63 Walton St., Port Hope

Friday, July 22

8pm-12am - Bruce Longman

Saturday, July 23

8pm-12am - Dan Farrell

The Venue

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

Coming Soon

Friday, September 16 (rescheduled from May 12)
7pm - Bif Naked ($35 in advance at www.eventbrite.ca/e/310846118107)

Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort

1045 Settlers Line, Keene
(705) 295-4591

Tuesday, July 26

6:30pm - Tuned Up Tuesdays - Emily Burgess & Marcus Browne

Coming Soon

Tuesday, August 2
6:30pm - Tuned Up Tuesdays - Melissa Payne

Northumberland County’s Roseneath Carousel featured on new Canada Post stamp

The Roseneath Carousel in Northumberland County is one of five of Canada's vintage carousels featured in a new stamp set issued by Canada Post. (Photo courtesy of Canada Post)

Canada Post has issued a stamp featuring the famous Roseneath Carousel, located in Alnwick/Haldimand Township in Northumberland County.

The Roseneath Carousel stamp is one of a set celebrating five of Canada’s vintage carousels, each known for elaborately carved and beautifully painted animals.

Dating back to the 12th century, carousels were originally used as a military training game. By the mid-19th century, they had evolved into the beloved fairground ride that remains a nostalgic staple of amusement parks to this day.

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Located at the Roseneath Fairgrounds at 9109 County Road 45, the Roseneath Carousel is one of the oldest operating carousels in North America. It is the only Canadian carousel to have received the U.S. National Carousel Association’s Historic Carousel Award in 2010.

It was built in 1906 in Abilene, Kansas by C.W. Parker, well known for manufacturing amusement rides, as a portable carnival carousel. It travelled to fairs and amusement parks, landing in Brantford, Ontario where it was eventually dismantled.

In 1932, the Roseneath Agricultural Society purchased the carousel for $675 and installed it at its current location on the Roseneath Fairgrounds. From 1932 until 1985, the carousel was maintained by local trades people, with local high school students repainting the horses as required.

located at the Roseneath Fairgrounds at 9109 County Road 45, the Roseneath Carousel is one of the oldest operating carousels in North America.  It is the only Canadian carousel to have received the U.S. National Carousel Association's Historic Carousel Award in 2010. (Photo: Roseneath Agricultural Society)
located at the Roseneath Fairgrounds at 9109 County Road 45, the Roseneath Carousel is one of the oldest operating carousels in North America. It is the only Canadian carousel to have received the U.S. National Carousel Association’s Historic Carousel Award in 2010. (Photo: Roseneath Agricultural Society)

By 1985, the carousel no longer met Ontario’s safety standards and was shut down due to disrepair. In 1987, a group of Roseneath Agricultural Society members launched a $400,000 fundraising campaign to restore the carousel to its original museum quality yet rideable condition. The restored Roseneath Carousel was officially reopened to the public on July 17, 1993.

Featuring 40 basswood horses and two metal boats, the carousel is balanced from a centre post and is powered by a five-horsepower electric motor, which drives a series of belts and clutches to move the carousel at around four miles per hour. Music is supplied by a 125 Wulitzer military band organ, complete with paper rolls, built in 1934.

The carousel operates from 1 to 3 p.m. every Sunday from the Victoria Day weekend to the Thanksgiving weekend, as well as during the annual Roseneath Fair and the Roseneath Agricultural Society’s annual car, truck, and tractor show ‘n’ shine.

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Along with the Roseneath Carousel, the Canada Post stamp set also features the Lakeside Park Carousel in St. Catharines, Ontario, the Bowness Carousel in Calgary, Alberta, the C.W. Parker Carousel No. 119 in Burnaby, British Columbia, and the Le Galopant carousel in Montréal, Quebec.

The stamps were designed by Paprika and feature illustrations by René Milot. The stamp issue includes a booklet of 10 permanent domestic rate stamps (with the booklet designed in the style of traditional circus and midway advertising posters), a souvenir sheet of five stamps, an official first day cover, and a set of five postcards.

Stamps and collectibles are available at canadapost.ca and postal outlets across Canada. For more information about the Roseneath Carousel, visit www.roseneathcarousel.com.

Canada Post's vintage carousel stamp set also includes postcards of each of the five featured carousels, including Northumberland County's Roseneath Carousel (Photo courtesy of Canada Post)
Canada Post’s vintage carousel stamp set also includes postcards of each of the five featured carousels, including Northumberland County’s Roseneath Carousel (Photo courtesy of Canada Post)

New farm stand at Edwin Binney’s Community Garden in Lindsay offers affordable, fresh produce

Since it was launched in 2019, Edwin Binney's Community Garden in Lindsay has grown over 17 tons of produce, with the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes donating most of the harvest to local organizations and food banks to help combat food insecurity in the region. (Photo courtesy of United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes)

Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton residents will soon have the chance to purchase affordable, fresh produce grown in Edwin Binney’s Community Garden in Lindsay.

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday (July 26), the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes will be running a farm stand at 50 Mary Street West in Lindsay featuring a selection of freshly harvested veggies, fruits, and herbs.

The Edwin Binney’s Community Garden Farm Stand will run every Tuesday during growing season from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., or while stock lasts.

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The farm stand will offer a variable pricing model, allowing shoppers to pay below-market, at-market, or above-market values depending on their budget.

“With rising rates of inflation affecting the majority of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton residents, it is important that we offer affordable solutions that also help our projects grow to serve greater numbers of people in our community,” reads a United Way media release.

“We know that community members with means will gladly pay a little extra to help support purchasing by those in dire need. United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes remains committed to alleviating the stress and hardship caused by food insecurity, now more than ever.”

Beginning July 26, 2022, the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes will offer a weekly farm stand on Tuesdays Edwin Binney's Community Garden in Lindsay, where residents can buy produce grown in the garden. (Graphic courtesy of United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes)
Beginning July 26, 2022, the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes will offer a weekly farm stand on Tuesdays Edwin Binney’s Community Garden in Lindsay, where residents can buy produce grown in the garden. (Graphic courtesy of United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes)

Edwin Binney’s Community Garden comprises 30,000 square feet of Crayola Canada’s previously unused land that the United Way and Fleming College developed into a fully operational community garden in 2019. Since then, the garden has grown over 17 tons of produce, with most of the harvest donated to local organizations and food banks to help combat food insecurity in the region.

The farm stand will only accept cash payment for the time being, with extra donations at point of purchase appreciated. The United Way will invest all proceeds from farm stand sales into development and maintenance of Edwin Binney’s Community Garden.

Shoppers will need to bring their own bags. Weekly offerings at the Edwin Binney’s Community Garden Farm Stand will be posted on the United Way’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter in advance of each week’s Tuesday market.

Find solace by connecting with nature this summer

A dragonhunter dragonfly (Hagenius brevistylus) in the Kawarthas. At 8.4cm long, this species is much larger than any other clubtail dragonfly in North America. Adults feed on smaller varieties of dragonflies. Dragonflies grow from nymphs that live in the water, and species like this require healthy ecosystems connecting the water, land, and air to thrive. (Photo: Leif Einarson)

Just over six months ago, in December, I shared a column about reflection and connection at the turning point between seasons, between years.

Here we are, half a year later, and once again I have a sense that so much of how things were then is unrecognizable to how things are now.

When life feels like it is changing too quickly (or not quickly enough), when horrible things beyond our control are happening, we can connect with community and nature to find support, solace, and a foundation for healing and making things better.

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Bringing intention to your time in nature is a highly effective way to enhance the mental and emotional benefits of that time.

A 2020 study published by the American Psychological Association compared two groups of adults. Both groups were asked to take 15-minute walks every day for eight weeks. The first group was given no instructions about how to take those walks, but the second group was told to be intentional about finding “awe” or “wonder” in their natural surroundings.

As a result, that second group demonstrated “greater joy” and “measurably broader smiles” than the first group. The second group also demonstrated “greater decreases in daily distress over time” as well as greater increases in positive emotions and feelings of social connection.

Here are a few ways I enjoy connecting with nature in the summertime.

 

Treat your senses

A native sweat bee foraging in the Kawarthas. Native bees are highly effective pollinators. Three quarters of our food depends on pollinators. We need to appreciate and protect native pollinator habitat at all times of year. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
A native sweat bee foraging in the Kawarthas. Native bees are highly effective pollinators. Three quarters of our food depends on pollinators. We need to appreciate and protect native pollinator habitat
at all times of year. (Photo: Leif Einarson)

In his book Nature’s Year in the Kawarthas: A Guide to the Unfolding Seasons, Drew Monkman describes July as “a treat for all our senses. The warm, humid air is often replete with the sweet smell of milkweed flowers, while the fragrance of flowering basswood trees draws bees and other insects by the thousands. Our palates, too, are well-served in July as strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, and the first sweet corn ripen.”

August is often also a hot and sultry joy for the senses. Crickets and cicadas start to sing. Turtle nests hatch. Goldenrod glows. The air fills with the buzz of native bees and the silent glory of butterflies as though we were in a second spring.

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I feel like there’s a sense of lingering trauma or betrayal from that traumatic derecho storm this spring. A slight after-taste of bitterness returns when I hear a gentle roll of thunder or smell a storm in the air.

I have found solace in celebrating the ongoing vibrancy and growth all around me this summer. I find connection and community at farmers’ markets. I enjoy creating a “smell cocktail” with the scents and sights of summer, as Jacob Rodenburg suggests in his new book The Book of Nature Connection.

 

Wander with intention

An ant and a sweat bee enjoy the pollen of a milkweed plant. Milkweed plants bloom in the summer and fill the air with sweet fragrances that attract pollinators of all sorts. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
An ant and a sweat bee enjoy the pollen of a milkweed plant. Milkweed plants bloom in the summer and fill the air with sweet fragrances that attract pollinators of all sorts. (Photo: Leif Einarson)

Wandering is not the same thing as being lost or wasting time without a goal. You can find many meaningful things — including yourself — if you make a point of wandering without a set destination. Wandering can happen with intention.

I enjoy wandering because it reinforces joy and meaning in the journey, not only the destination. Wandering in this way allows me to increase my appreciation for what can be discovered and noticed along the way.

Some of my most favourite spots have been discovered during aimless wanders.

 

Connect with feathered friends

A female ruby-throated hummingbird at a feeder in the Kawarthas. These tiny birds lay eggs the size of jelly beans and during their annual migration they cross the Gulf of Mexico, travelling 800 km over water non-stop in about 18 to 22 hours. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
A female ruby-throated hummingbird at a feeder in the Kawarthas. These tiny birds lay eggs the size of jelly beans and during their annual migration they cross the Gulf of Mexico, travelling 800 km over water non-stop in about 18 to 22 hours. (Photo: Leif Einarson)

The spring’s birdsongs may be behind us, but summer is a unique time to connect with feathered friends.

Swallows — my favourite bird — are common in summer if you look on telephone wires or fences near farms and open fields or lakes and ponds. These nimble birds migrate to South America and — like so many other animals — depend on our collective efforts across national borders to protect habitat and reduce the use of harmful pesticides.

I love watching these elegant little birds with their forked tails speed along close to the ground. It’s a fun challenge to keep your eyes following just one swallow during its remarkable aerial maneuvers.

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If you are close to a hummingbird feeder or pollinator garden, you can enjoy the tiny bursts of colour and speed of these amazing tiny birds. Did you know that hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backwards?

Ruby-throated are the most common hummingbirds in Ontario. You can identify them by a bright green back and crown, with grey-white underside. Males have an iridescent red throat. If you’re in a good spot, you may get to hear multiple males exchanging territorial chirps and you might even see some aerial duels.

 

Live streaming

Can you spot the female snapping turtle in this photo of the section of Jackson Creek just upstream from the concrete bridge in Peterborough's Jackson Creek Park? Beloved by many, Jackson Creek is full of life and also at risk if we do not protect it from sources in Loggerhead Marsh and Lily Lake to its mouth at the Otonabee River near the Depave Paradise garden GreenUP created in 2018. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
Can you spot the female snapping turtle in this photo of the section of Jackson Creek just upstream from the concrete bridge in Peterborough’s Jackson Creek Park? Beloved by many, Jackson Creek is full of life and also at risk if we do not protect it from sources in Loggerhead Marsh and Lily Lake to its mouth at the Otonabee River near the Depave Paradise garden GreenUP
created in 2018. (Photo: Leif Einarson)

No, I am not talking about social media. Turn that off.

I’m talking about enjoying one of the many creeks, rivers, or lakes in the Peterborough area. This region has an abundance of fresh water, and we take that for granted. There is so much to be gained in terms of physical and mental wellness simply by spending a few moments near a water body. Water truly is essential to life and quality of life.

Summer is a great time to peer into that magical world under the surface tension. Lose yourself watching fish, invertebrates, and amphibians, or just watch the patterns of light and shadow at play.

Yearning for a guide to the finest amphibia, the streams of your dreams, and the flora you’ll adore? GreenUP is proud to support the Creek Week Walking Guide by Peterborough Currents.

When it comes to protecting our shared watershed, Otonabee Conservation is your resource in the Peterborough region for information about how to change your behaviour in response to drought or flood conditions. Visit www.ontonabeeconservation.com to find out more.

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We’ve been through a lot in the past year. It’s ok to not be ok. I hope some time connecting with nature and community brings you happiness and good health.

A personal crisis can come about suddenly and unexpectedly but also as a natural part of the life cycle. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs help, the Four County Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 705-745-6484 or toll-free 1-866-995-9933.

The Four County Crisis Line provides free, confidential mental health crisis intervention support over the phone, for people 16 years and over.

‘Wishful Seeing’ brings 1850s-style murder mystery to Millbrook’s 4th Line Theatre in August

Tavaree Daniel-Simms as James Small and Robert Winslow as preacher Thaddeus Lewis perform a scene from 4th Line Theatre's production of "Wishful Seeing", an adaptation by Maja Ardal of Janet Kellough's novel of the same name, during a media event on July 20, 2022. The play premieres at Winslow Farm in Millbrook on August 2 and runs Tuesdays to Saturdays until August 27. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

When trying to lure audiences back after two years of pandemic-related hibernation, it’s not a bad idea to keep doing what you’ve done so well.

The soundness of that approach hasn’t been lost on 4th Line Theatre and, as a result, the company has picked up right where it left off in 2019, presenting original, local history-infused productions on its rustic and enchanting Winslow Farm stage just outside of Millbrook off Zion Line.

For the second production of its milestone 30th summer season, 4th Line Theatre will stage the world premiere of Wishful Seeing, playwright Maja Ardal’s adaptation of Janet Kellough’s novel of the same name.

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Directed by 4th Line managing artistic director Kim Blackwell, the 1850s-era murder mystery opens August 2 and continues Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6 p.m. until closing on August 27.

Set in 1853, the play’s storyline revolves around saddlebag preacher Thaddeus Lewis who stumbles upon a murder mystery on Rice Lake. Featuring a most colourful cast of characters, it’s set against the backdrop of pre-Confederation Canada. Think Murdoch Mysteries, CBC’s very popular television series, and you get the general idea.

During a media preview held Wednesday (July 20), Blackwell noted Wishful Seeing “checks a lot of boxes … for this theatre, for its mission, and its mandate” — that being the development and presentation of original theatre pieces that bring Ontario small-town stories (and history) back to life.

Megan Murphy, Naomi Duvall, and Conor Ling perform a scene from 4th Line Theatre's production of "Wishful Seeing", an adaptation by Maja Ardal of Janet Kellough's novel of the same name, during a media event on July 20, 2022.  (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
Megan Murphy, Naomi Duvall, and Conor Ling perform a scene from 4th Line Theatre’s production of “Wishful Seeing”, an adaptation by Maja Ardal of Janet Kellough’s novel of the same name, during a media event on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

“My mom gave me the book in July 2016,” recalls Blackwell of her introduction to Kellough’s novel.

“In late August, I was at the cottage and I read it. I thought ‘This is a perfect play for 4th Line. It’s a murder mystery. There’s the historical story of the Cobourg-to-Peterborough railroad and there’s this murder on Spook Island on Rice Lake.’ I sent a message to her (Janet). She got back to me in 15 or 20 minutes on a Sunday morning and said she’s interested.”

Once publisher Dundurn Press gave its blessing, Ardal did her thing and did it very well, not surprisingly according to Blackwell.

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"Wishful Seeing" director Kim Blackwell speaks with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre's Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
“Wishful Seeing” director Kim Blackwell speaks with kawarthaNOW’s Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

“What she does beautifully is adapt source material, but adds spins of her own while staying very true to the source material,” Blackwell says, recalling “the beautiful job” Ardal did on The Hero of Hunter Street, her 2016 4th Line-staged play that chronicled events at the time of the 1916 Quaker Oats explosion and fire in Peterborough.

As for Wishful Seeing, “it’s an incredibly technical piece,” says Blackwell, noting elements such as fight scenes, original music, choreography, and “extraordinary” sets and props.

“I always think my shows are going to be simple. On the face of it, when an audience comes to see them, they probably look simple. But to create a world, to draw an audience into Cobourg in 1853, there are so many moving parts. It’s like a humongous machine and I’m sort of oiling parts to make sure things are moving.”

4th Line Theatre founder Robert Winslow, who plays preacher Thaddeus Lewis in "Wishful Seeing," speaks with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre's Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
4th Line Theatre founder Robert Winslow, who plays preacher Thaddeus Lewis in “Wishful Seeing,” speaks with kawarthaNOW’s Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

Blackwell has been “oiling parts” with 4th Line Theatre for a long time, this summer marking her 28th season with the company for which she has directed more than 25 productions, 14 of them world premieres. Along with founder and creative director Robert Winslow, Blackwell remains the face and voice of the outdoor theatre company that debuted in 1992 with Winslow’s The Cavan Blazers.

Wishful Seeing marks Winslow’s return to a principal role after a few years’ absence. Blackwell says he “was born to play” the part of preacher Lewis.

“I’m enjoying the process but it has been quite awhile,” says Winslow, dressed in full black preacher garb on an insanely hot day.

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“I find these types of characters kind of interesting,” Winslow says. “This particular man (Lewis) preached into his seventies. One of the challenges of playing a religious character is you have to find that faith within yourself.”

“In these times, you assume no one believes in God — that everybody’s into science and that sort of thing — but that’s not necessarily true. There are a lot of people who still have faith.”

As for the cast, it’s heavy on the side of local actors, among them Megan Murphy who, with singer-songwriter Kate Suhr, brought The Verandah Society In Residence to the farm last summer for a limited run. Wishful Seeing marks her 4th Line summer play debut — a big check mark on her bucket list, she says.

Megan Murphy, who plays Constance Small in 4th Line Theatre's production of "Wishful Seeing," speaks with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre's Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
Megan Murphy, who plays Constance Small in 4th Line Theatre’s production of “Wishful Seeing,” speaks with kawarthaNOW’s Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

“I play Constance Small … I’m kind of the town biddy,” Murphy says. “Gossip is currency and I like to have the most currency. I want to be on my way up in the world, but there’s that interesting combination where gossip travels fast and it can be simple or it can ruin people. There’s a little bit of power there. I’m the 1850s’ Facebook.”

“My first love was Anne of Green Gables — I thought I was Anne. Now, for the first time, I’m in that period and I get to wear these things (hoop skirts and corsets). This is so much fun. I get to play for a living. I’m a giant overgrown child. It’s amazing.”

Equally thrilled to be in the mix is Kate Bemrose, who is making her 4th Line debut. The recent Lakefield College School graduate has appeared in numerous locally staged musicals — she was also a competitive dancer with Premiere Studio of Dance — and was involved with 4th Line’s 2021 Young Company. In Wishful Seeing, she plays Martha Renwell, the granddaughter of preacher Lewis.

Kate Bemrose, who is making her 4th Line Theatre debut as Martha Renwell in "Wishful Seeing," speaks with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre's Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
Kate Bemrose, who is making her 4th Line Theatre debut as Martha Renwell in “Wishful Seeing,” speaks with kawarthaNOW’s Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

“She (Renwell) is young and full of energy — kind of a feminist and very modern for the times,” Bemrose says of her character, adding “I love that she’s forward thinking and progressive.”

“I fell in love with musical theatre because it’s a combination of all the different things, but I never dived deeper into the acting portion. I’m so excited to do that this summer. Kim (Blackwell) and Marjie (Chud), the assistant director, have taught me so much, even in just the last two weeks. I’m excited to learn more. I try to be like a sponge and soak everything up.”

Meanwhile, JD (Jack) Nicholsen, who portrays George Howell, is no stranger to 4th Line audiences. An award-winning actor whose career spans 30-plus years, he has appeared in five previous 4th Line productions, adding to an impressive resumé that also includes a 1991 Juno Award as a member of The Leslie Spit Treeo.

JD (Jack) Nicholsen,  who plays George Howell in 4th Line Theatre's production of "Wishful Seeing," speaks with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre's Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
JD (Jack) Nicholsen, who plays George Howell in 4th Line Theatre’s production of “Wishful Seeing,” speaks with kawarthaNOW’s Paul Rellinger during a media event for the play at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

“I play the father of Caroline and the husband of Ellen Howell (portrayed by Peterborough-based actor Kait Dueck),” he notes. “Ellen is the woman that Thaddeus Lewis takes a shine to and helps. I play the husband who has nefarious undetermined activities that he’s involved with. He’s not a bad guy, but he is a bit of shady character.”

“I’ve never done a murder mystery. It’s a fun script, and Kim (Blackwell) is very detailed. She’s always talking about your intention and your reaction.”

“What I really admire is what she achieves in the short period of time she is given. It’s a big cast — 18 people — and there are more than 40 different scenes. That’s a lot to navigate. She’s got a great visual sense; a great rhythmic sense. Her direction is always very clear and concise. She never confuses you.”

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Sponsored by Trinity College School and IG Wealth Management, Wishful Seeing also stars visiting actors Tavaree Daniel-Simms and Conor Ling. Other actors in the cast include Naomi Duvall, Hilary Wear, Ryan Tobin, and Mark and Justin Hiscox. Musical direction is by Justin Hiscox, with choreography by Madison Sheward, fight direction by Edward Belanger, and costume design by Korin Cormier.

Performance dates for Wishful Seeing are Tuesdays to Saturdays from August 2 to 6, 9 to 13, 16 to 20, and 23 to 27 with curtain at 6 p.m. Previews take place on August 2 and 3, with opening night on Thursday, August 4. Tickets are $42.50 for adults and $36.50 youth.

For more information and to order tickets for Wishful Seeing, visit www.4thlinetheatre.on.ca. You can also order tickets by calling 705-932-4445 (toll free at 1-800-814-0055) or in person at the 4th Line Theatre box office at 4 Tupper Street in Millbrook starting July 2.

"Wishful Seeing" director Kim Blackwell (third from left) with actors Robert Winslow, Conor Ling, Megan Murphy, Tavaree Daniel-Simms, and Naomi Duvall during a media event at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)
“Wishful Seeing” director Kim Blackwell (third from left) with actors Robert Winslow, Conor Ling, Megan Murphy, Tavaree Daniel-Simms, and Naomi Duvall during a media event at 4th Line Theatre’s Winslow Farm in Millbrook on July 20, 2022. (Photo: Heather Doughty / kawarthaNOW)

Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for entire Kawarthas region Wednesday afternoon and evening

A thunderstorm over Bobcaygeon in Kawartha Lakes in May 2022. (Photo: Jay Callaghan / CalTek Design)

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the entire Kawarthas region for Wednesday afternoon and evening (July 20).

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail.

The severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Peterborough County, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings County.

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Thunderstorms are expected to affect the area beginning late Wednesday afternoon. The main hazard will be damaging wind gusts up to 100 km/h, with the possibility of nickel-sized hail.

There is some uncertainty as to how far east the risk of severe weather will continue on Wednesday evening.

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

The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.

What’s new on Netflix Canada in August 2022

The new Netflix fantasy drama series The Sandman, based on the comic book by award-winning writer Neil Gaiman and starring Tom Sturridge as the titular character Dream, premiers on August 5, 2022. (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 August.

The Sandman, a new Netflix fantasy drama series based on the comic book by award-winning writer Neil Gaiman (American Gods, Coraline), stars Tom Sturridge as the titular character Dream with Gwendoline Christie, Vivienne Acheampong, Boyd Holbrook, Charles Dance, Asim Chaudhry, and Sanjeev Bhaskar in supporting roles. Gaiman has promised fans the show is a faithful adaptation of the comics in both spirit and storyline, but it will be set in the present day, 30 years later than when the comics take place. The Sandman premieres on Friday, August 5th.

Another new Netflix series is Mo, a comedy created by and starring comedian Mohammed Amer based on his own life. Co-created by Ramy Youssef, the series tells the story of Mo Najjar (Amer), a Palestinian refugee whose mother, sister, and older brother flee to Houston while trying for U.S. citizenship. In Texas, Mo straddles the line between two cultures, three languages. and a pending asylum request while hustling to support his Palestinian family. Mo debuts on Wednesday, August 24th.

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Other new Netflix series include Partner Track (no release date specified), Instant Dream Home and Iron Chef Brazil (both on Aug. 10), Echoes (Aug. 19), Chad and JT Go Deep (Aug. 23), Lost Ollie and Queer Eye: Brazil, Selling The OC, and Under Fire (all on Aug. 24), and Drive Hard: The Maloof Way (Aug. 26).

The third and final season of the Netflix fantasy horror drama series Locke & Key sees the Locke family uncovers more magic as they face a demonic new foe who’s dead-set on possessing the keys. The final season premieres on Wednesday, August 10th. Other returning Netflix series include season two of Indian Matchmaking (Aug. 10), season three of Never Have I Ever (Aug. 12), season four of Glow Up (Aug. 19), season two of History 101 (Aug. 25), and season three of I Am A Killer (Aug. 30).

The Netflix action horror comedy film Day Shift stars Jamie Foxx as a hard-working blue collar dad who just wants to provide a good life for his quick-witted daughter, but his mundane San Fernando Valley pool cleaning job is a front for his real source of income: hunting and killing vampires as part of an international union of vampire hunters. Day Shift debuts on Friday, August 12th.

VIDEO: “The Sandman” trailer

There’s also the Netflix films Carter (Aug. 5), a Korean action thriller about a man with missing memories who sets off on a hostage rescue mission rife with danger while being directed by a mysterious voice from a device in his ear, and Me Time (Aug. 26), about a stay-at-home dad (Kevin Hart) who finds himself with some “me time” for the first time in years while his wife and kids are away, and then reconnects with his former best friend (Mark Wahlberg) for a wild weekend that nearly upends his life.

Other new Netflix films include Wedding Season (Aug. 4), 13: The Musical (Aug. 12), Look Both Ways (Aug. 17), The Next 365 Days (Aug. 19), That’s Amor (Aug. 25), and I Came By (Aug. 31).

Netflix documentaries include Clusterf**k: Woodstock ’99 (Aug. 3), an exploration of why the 1999 revival of the 1969 festival of peace and music instead delivered three days of rage, riots, and real harm, and Running with the Devil: The Wild World of John McAfee (Aug. 24), the story of the inventor of one of the most successful (and most hated) pieces of software of all time: McAfee Anti-Virus.

VIDEO: “Day Shift” trailer

Other new documentaries include I Just Killed My Dad (Aug. 9), Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story (Aug. 11), volume two of the sports documentary series Untold (new episodes weekly beginning Aug. 16), and Inside the Mind of a Cat (Aug. 18).

Highlights of theatrically released films coming to Netflix are Christopher Nolan’s 2020 science fiction action thriller Tenet on Monday, August 1st, and the 2020 superhero film Wonder Woman 1984 on Monday, August 15th. Other theatrically released films include The Addams Family, Addams Family Values, Downsizing, The Italian Job, and We Were Soldiers (all on Aug. 1), Clara and Made In Italy (both on Aug. 7) and Homefront (Aug. 17),

VIDEO: New to Netflix Canada in August 2022

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

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Coming soon (no release date specified)

  • Delhi Crime: Season 2 (Netflix series) – When a chain of distinctly grisly murders suggests the return of a feared criminal gang, DCP Vartika heads the case under media and public pressure.
  • Partner Track (Netflix series) – Ingrid Yun fights to make partner — and keep her moral compass — at an elite New York City law firm while balancing love, friendships and family duties.

 

Monday, August 1

  • Big Tree City (Netflix family) – A team of animal heroes with special skills and speedy vehicles work together to keep Big Tree City safe and solve the town’s trickiest problems.
  • The Addams Family
  • Addams Family Values
  • Country Strong
  • Downsizing
  • Good Burger
  • The Italian Job
  • LEGO Friends: Heartlake Stories: Limited Series
  • Movie 43
  • Nocturnal Animals
  • Red Dawn (2012)
  • Tenet
  • We Were Soldiers
  • Young Adult
  • The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet

 

Tuesday, August 2

  • Ricardo Quevedo: Tomorrow Will Be Worse (Netflix comedy special) – From road rage to couples fighting during the pandemic, comic Ricardo Quevedo examines the absurdity of the situations that try our patience.

 

Wednesday, August 3

  • Buba (Netflix film) – When a small-town con artist joins the local mafia with his manipulative brother, his obsession with balancing his karma gets hilariously brutal.
  • Clusterf**k: Woodstock ’99 (Netflix documentary) – Woodstock 1969 promised peace and music, but its ’99 revival delivered three days of rage, riots and real harm. Why did it go so horribly wrong?
  • Don’t Blame Karma! (Netflix film) – When her model sister and high-school crush start dating, fashion designer Sara must decide whether her alleged bad luck is the real culprit behind this.
  • Good Morning, Verônica: Season 2 (Netflix series) – Presumed to be dead, Verônica works to unravel the mysteries of the religious cult that fuels abuse and corruption within the government.

 

Thursday, August 4

  • Lady Tamara (Netflix series) – The glamorous life of socialite Tamara Falcó takes center stage in this reality series as she balances work, play and her famous family.
  • Kakegurui Twin (Netflix anime) – Determined to climb up the social ladder, Mary Saotome invests everything she has into what her elite high school values most: high stakes gambling.
  • Super Giant Robot Brothers (Netflix family) – Once the squabbling stops, the battling begins! Robot siblings Shiny and Thunder and their whiz inventor must defend Earth when space monsters attack.
  • Wedding Season (Netflix film) – Under parental pressure to find spouses, Asha and Ravi pretend to date during a summer of weddings — but their ruse goes awry when feelings turn real.

 

Friday, August 5

  • Carter (Netflix film) – A man wakes up missing his memories. Directed by a mysterious voice from a device in his ear, he sets off on a hostage rescue mission rife with danger.
  • Darlings (Netflix film) – Badru hopes her volatile husband will reform if he stops drinking. But when his rage goes too far, she and her mom boldly, albeit clumsily, seek revenge.
  • Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie (Netflix film) – The teen turtles and their mystic ninja powers are put to the ultimate test when ruthless creatures from another universe look to unleash extreme chaos.
  • The Sandman (Netflix series) – After years of imprisonment, Morpheus — the King of Dreams — embarks on a journey across worlds to find what was stolen from him and restore his power.

 

Saturday, August 6

  • Reclaim (Netflix film) – Shouldering all of her family’s responsibilities, a mother scrambles to find a bigger apartment for her suddenly crowded household.

 

Sunday, August 7

  • Clara
  • Made In Italy

 

Monday, August 8

  • Code Name: Emperor (Netflix film) – An intelligence agent tasked with incriminating a squeaky-clean politician must decide if there are still some lines he won’t cross.
  • Team Zenko Go: Season 2 (Netflix family) – Runaway robo-dogs, sleepwalking uncles and troublesome tots! These kid heroes in hiding are finding more ways to help around the town of Harmony Harbor.

 

Tuesday, August 9

  • I Just Killed My Dad (Netflix documentary) – An unprecedented documentary series that tells the unbelievable, never-been-told-before true story of the Templet family. Anthony Templet shot his father and never denied it. But why he did it is a complex question with profound implications that go far beyond one family. This three-episode documentary series explores the psyche of Anthony leading up to the events of June 3, 2019 and the journey of his mental and emotional aftermath.
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Wednesday, August 10

  • Bank Robbers: The Last Great Heist (Netflix documentary) – Through candid interviews, the perpetrators of Argentina’s most notorious bank heist detail how — and why — they carried out the radical 2006 operation.
  • Heartsong (Netflix film) – While serenading a wedding that quickly implodes, a nomadic musician falls for the bride, who runs afoul of her family. Now he has to save her life.
  • Indian Matchmaking: Season 2 (Netflix series) – Sima Taparia, everyone’s favorite matchmaker, returns for another season of helping eligible, eccentric and eager clients find their future spouses.
  • Instant Dream Home (Netflix series) – A team of rapid-fire renovators takes big risks and makes painstaking plans to transform families’ homes from top to bottom in just 12 hours.
  • Iron Chef Brazil (Netflix series) – Welcome to Iron Chef Brazil! In this cooking competition, rising culinary talents battle Brazil’s greatest chefs for a chance to be named Iron Legend.
  • Locke & Key: Season 3 (Netflix series) – In the thrilling final chapter of the series, the Locke family uncovers more magic as they face a demonic new foe who’s dead-set on possessing the keys.
  • School Tales The Series (Netflix series) – Unspeakable horrors roam the halls of high school in this anthology featuring ghost stories directed by seasoned Thai horror directors.

 

Thursday, August 11

  • DOTA: Dragon’s Blood: Book 3 (Netflix anime) – The time has come for brave warriors to conquer an indomitable foe. But can the ultimate sacrifice bring lasting peace — to all possible worlds?
  • Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story (Netflix documentary) – A raw and immersive feature film that follows competitive skateboarding icon Leo Baker in the lead up to the 2020 Olympics. As he faces the sharpening stakes and intensifying disconnect between how the world sees him and who he knows himself to be, the pressure to keep on the course or be true to himself comes to a career and life-defining turning point. Stay on Board is Leo’s journey balancing the gendered world of sports, transition, society, and skate culture, which ultimately leads him to the punkest thing imaginable.

 

Friday, August 12

  • 13: The Musical (Netflix film) – After moving from New York to Indiana in the wake of his parents’ divorce, a clever middle schooler is determined to throw the best bar mitzvah ever.
  • A Model Family (Netflix series) – After unwittingly stealing money from a cartel, a cash-strapped professor finds the only way to save his broken family is by working as a drug courier.
  • Day Shift (Netflix film) – Jamie Foxx stars as a hard working blue collar dad who just wants to provide a good life for his quick-witted daughter, but his mundane San Fernando Valley pool cleaning job is a front for his real source of income, hunting and killing vampires as part of an international Union of vampire hunters.
  • Never Have I Ever: Season 3 (Netflix series) – Devi and her friends may finally be single no more. But they’re about to learn that relationships come with a lot of self-discovery — and all the drama.

 

Monday, August 15

  • Deepa & Anoop (Netflix family) – Joined by her color-changing pet elephant, a joyful little girl creates music, merriment and mischief at her Indian family’s Mango Manor hotel.
  • Wonder Woman 1984

 

Tuesday, August 16

  • Untold: Volume 2 (Netflix documentary, new episodes weekly) – The critically acclaimed series returns with a four-week docuseries event that once again brings fresh eyes to epic tales from the wide world of sports. From football to basketball and streetball to sailing, these stories aren’t the ones you’ve heard before, even if you think you have. Premiering weekly, each film kicks off at a pivotal moment and then delves deep into what happened beyond the headlines, as told by those who lived it, to reveal the grit, resilience, heartbreak, triumph, violence, comedy and pathos beneath the sweat. Volume 2 begins with Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist (2 Parts), telling the story of All-American football standout Manti Te’o who, born into a Hawaiian paradise, leads a simple life summed up in just three words: faith, family, football. College football’s golden boy could do no wrong, but when tragedy strikes, the increased scrutiny of his online relationship causes a media maelstrom that threatens his future and legacy. Featuring in-depth interviews with Manti Te’o and the person behind the online identity, Ronaiah ‘Naya’ Tuiasosopo. Directed by Ryan Duffy and Tony Vainuku.

 

Wednesday, August 17

  • High Heat (Netflix series) – When clues to his brother’s murder lead Poncho to a fire brigade, he joins it to investigate further and finds romance, family… and a serial killer.
  • Homefront
  • Look Both Ways (Netflix film) – On the night of her college graduation, Natalie’s life splits into parallel realities after she takes a pregnancy test. What will life and love bring?
  • Royalteen (Netflix film) – A teenager struggles to keep her scandal-ridden past and a big secret from getting out when she strikes up an unlikely romance with the crown prince.
  • Unsuspicious (Netflix series) – Conned by the same playboy, three women and their families go to his mansion to get answers — and must stay for an investigation when he’s found dead.

 

Thursday, August 18

  • He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Season 3 (Netflix family) – With Skeletor intent on controlling the universe, He-Man and his heroic squad must fulfill their destinies. The epic battle for ultimate power is on!
  • Inside the Mind of a Cat (Netflix documentary) – Cat experts dive into the mind of the feline to reveal the true capabilities of the pouncing pet in this captivating and cuddly documentary.
  • Tekken: Bloodline (Netflix anime) – After losing his home to a powerful enemy, a hot-tempered fighter trains under his zealous grandfather while awaiting his chance for revenge.

 

Friday, August 19

  • The Cuphead Show! Part 2 (Netflix family) – Follow the misadventures of the impulsive Cuphead and his easily swayed brother Mugman in this animated series based on the hit video game.
  • Echoes (Netflix series) – Identical twins Leni and Gina have secretly swapped lives since they were children. But their world is thrown into disarray when one sister goes missing.
  • The Girl in the Mirror (Alma) (Netflix series) – After losing her memory in a bizarre accident that kills most of her classmates, Alma tries to unravel what happened that day — and regain her identity.
  • Glow Up: Season 4 (Netflix series) – Ten new contestants test the limits of their creativity as they tackle a variety of challenges in hopes of becoming the next big name in makeup.
  • Kleo (Netflix series) – After the fall of the Berlin Wall, a former East German spy resolves to find out who betrayed her and why — and use her lethal skills to exact revenge.
  • The Next 365 Days (Netflix film)
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Saturday, August 20

  • Fullmetal Alchemist The Revenge of Scar (Netflix film) – In this sequel to the first feature film, the Elric brothers meet their toughest opponent yet — a lone serial killer with a large scar on his forehead.

 

Tuesday, August 23

  • Chad and JT Go Deep (Netflix series) – Best bros Chad and JT set out to spread positivity through community activism and chill vibes in this raucous prank comedy series.
  • Untold: The Rise and Fall of AND1 (Netflix documentary, new episodes weekly) – Born out of the playgrounds of New York City, the “And 1 Mixtape Tour” took streetball to the masses, challenging convention and picking up a team of basketball misfits along the way. “The Rise and Fall of AND1” traces the journey of how three young friends with a dream of bringing greater acclaim to the game they loved, connected with the underground artform of streetball, and ended up flipping the billion-dollar basketball industry on its head. AND1 co-founders along with streetball legends The Professor, Hot Sauce, Skip 2 My Lou, The Main Event, Shane the Dribbling Machine and more reflect on their experience and the brand’s journey. Directed by Kevin Wilson Jr.

 

Wednesday, August 24

  • Lost Ollie (Netflix series) – A toy searches the countryside for the young boy who lost him in this family series inspired by the book “Ollie’s Odyssey.”
  • Mo (Netflix series) – In Texas, Mo straddles the line between two cultures, three languages and a pending asylum request while hustling to support his Palestinian family.
  • Queer Eye: Brazil (Netflix series) – The uplifting makeover series hits Brazil with a new Fab Five and more courageous journeys of transformation — along with lots of tears and laughs.
  • Running with the Devil: The Wild World of John McAfee (Netflix documentary) – He’s the original computer genius gone rogue, inventor of one of the most successful (and most hated) pieces of software of all time: McAfee Anti-Virus. At his peak, John McAfee was worth $100 million. But when his neighbour was murdered, McAfee went on the run – and invited a film crew with him. With access to hundreds of hours of never-before-broadcast footage of McAfee as he was pursued by the authorities, this is the definitive story of a larger-than-life character, a man who ran for President, escaped from prison multiple times, and claimed to have hacked the world.
  • Selling The OC (Netflix series) – The Oppenheim Group expands to Orange County, where an all-new real estate team shows off lavish oceanfront listings and big personalities make waves.
  • Under Fire (Netflix series) – At East Bank Station, a close-knit team of firefighters must balance a dangerous, high-stress job, personal challenges and professional setbacks.
  • Watch Out, We’re Mad (Netflix film) – In this reboot of the 1970s Bud Spencer and Terence Hill film, two brothers estranged for 25 years reunite to reclaim their father’s beloved dune buggy.

 

Thursday, August 25

  • Angry Birds: Summer Madness: Season 3 (Netflix family) – Teen birds Red, Chuck, Bomb and Stella are crashing through Camp Splinterwood with their fellow feathered campers for a summer of high-flying hijinks!
  • History 101: Season 2 (Netflix documentary) – The bite-size history lessons return, this time to investigate psychedelic drugs, weaponized lasers and even bottled water.
  • Rilakkuma’s Theme Park Adventure (Netflix anime) – Cuddly bear Rilakkuma and his lovable friends have a day full of adventure at a sweets-themed amusement park that’s about to close its doors forever.
  • That’s Amor (Netflix film) – After her job and relationship implode on the same day, Sofia starts from scratch — and meets a dashing Spanish chef who might be her missing ingredient.

 

Friday, August 26

  • Drive Hard: The Maloof Way (Netflix series) – Legendary racer Sammy Maloof and his family of racers and stunt drivers build the world’s baddest cars to make sure their clients take the checkered flag on race day. And when the racing dust settles, the Maloofs pull back the curtain on professional stunt driving as they practice and execute the most action-packed feats imaginable.
  • Loving Adults (Netflix film) – The thin line between love and hate turns deadly when a wife discovers her husband’s affair — and they both take extreme measures to get what they want.
  • Ludik (Netflix series) – To save a kidnapped family member, an enterprising furniture tycoon must use his secret diamond smuggling operation to transport guns across the border.
  • Me Time (Netflix film) – When a stay-at-home dad finds himself with some “me time” for the first time in years while his wife and kids are away, he reconnects with his former best friend for a wild weekend that nearly upends his life.
  • Seoul Vibe (Netflix film) – In the days leading up to the 1988 Seoul Olympics, a ragtag team of drivers and mechanics go undercover to dismantle a massive money-laundering ring.

 

Monday, August 29

  • Under Her Control (Netflix film) – An ambitious young woman enters into an unusual arrangement with her charismatic boss. By the time doubts creep in, it may be too late to back out.
  • Mighty Express: Season 7 (Netflix family) – Nate, Flicker and the rest of the trains raise the rails for more thrilling deliveries, special missions and lighthearted lessons on the track.

 

Tuesday, August 30

  • I Am A Killer: Season 3 (Netflix documentary) – While serving hard time for murder, inmates recount their crimes and reflect on how their actions destroyed lives — including their own.
  • Untold: Operation Flagrant Foul (Netflix documentary, new episodes weekly) – In the summer of 2007, news broke that an NBA referee was being investigated for gambling on his own games, igniting a media storm and sending the NBA, FBI and sports fans into crisis. That referee was Tim Donaghy and the story didn’t just start and end with him, but wound its way from the small town bookies of the Philadelphia suburbs to lining the pockets of the notorious New York crime families and worldwide sports gambling underworld. For the first time, all three co-conspirators discuss their involvement and, unsurprisingly, their stories don’t all line-up. Featuring revealing sit-down interviews with Tim Donaghy, Tommy Martino, Jimmy “The Sheep” Battista plus FBI agent Phil Scala, Donaghy’s lawyer John Lauro, Donaghy’s ex-wife Kim Strupp Donaghy, and more. Directed by David Terry Fine.

 

Wednesday, August 31

  • Club América vs Club América (Netflix documentary) – This docuseries depths into the past and present of America, the most winning and controversial soccer club in Mexico.
  • Family Secrets (Netflix series) – A couple’s wedding day threatens to turn disastrous when they begin to unravel a web of secrets and lies that connects their two families.
  • I Came By (Netflix film) – A graffiti artist who targets homes of the elite uncovers a twisted secret in a hidden basement — triggering events that put his loved ones in danger.

 

Leaving Netflix Canada in August

Sunday, August 14

  • Prison Break: Seasons 1-5

Wednesday, August 24

  • Wheel of Fortune: Season 35-37

Wednesday, August 31

  • Chicago Fire: Seasons 1-4

 

All titles and dates are subject to change.

Renaissance on Hunter road murals in downtown Peterborough are now complete

Nuin-Tara Morin (Stardaughterwoman) and assistant Chris Boyd wrapping up the road mural "Nothing Out of Reach" on Sunday, July 17 as part of the City of Peterborough's 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)

During July, artists have been hard at work transforming temporary sidewalk spaces into public artwork in downtown Peterborough. Four road murals at four different locations along a section of Hunter Street have been completed.

Now in its second year, Renaissance on Hunter is a public art initiative coordinated through the City of Peterborough public art program in partnership with the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) and Peterborough GreenUP.

In the spring, the city invited local artists to submit proposals for two distinct but related public art projects: The Road Mural Project and The Artists’ Garden Project. Collectively named Renaissance on Hunter, the projects are installed on four sites on Hunter Street between George and Aylmer streets.

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The four Renaissance on Hunter sites. (Map: City of Peterborough Public Art Program)
The four Renaissance on Hunter sites. (Map: City of Peterborough Public Art Program)

Sites 1 and 2 are located on either side of the entrance to the parking garage on the south side of Hunter, and sites 3 and 4 are located on either side of the entrance to the Chambers Street parking lot.

Site 1 features the mural “Odoonabii” by Aaron Robitaille and the gardens “Urban Farm” by GreenUP.

Site 2 features the mural “Glacial Formation” by Josh Morley and the gardens “Dog Park” by Krista Ouellette.

Site 3 features the mural “Flight of the Pollinators” by Brooklin Holbrough and the gardens “Avian Dreams” by Cathy Ogrodnik.

Site 4 features the mural “Nothing Out of Reach” by Nuin-Tara Morin (Stardaughterwoman) and the gardens “Three Sisters Garden” by the DBIA.

The "Nothing Out of Reach" road mural was completed by artist Nuin-Tara Morin (Stardaughterwoman) and assistant Chris Boyd  on Sunday, July 17 as part of the City of Peterborough's 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The “Nothing Out of Reach” road mural was completed by artist Nuin-Tara Morin (Stardaughterwoman) and assistant Chris Boyd on Sunday, July 17 as part of the City of Peterborough’s 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The "Glacial Formation" road mural by Josh Morley, assisted by Luke Morley, was completed on Sunday, July 10 as part of the City of Peterborough's 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative.  (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The “Glacial Formation” road mural by Josh Morley, assisted by Luke Morley, was completed on Sunday, July 10 as part of the City of Peterborough’s 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The "Flight of the Pollinators" road mural by Brooklin Holbrough and Bethany Davis was completed on Thursday, July 14 as part of the City of Peterborough's 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative.  (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The “Flight of the Pollinators” road mural by Brooklin Holbrough and Bethany Davis was completed on Thursday, July 14 as part of the City of Peterborough’s 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The "Odoonabii" road mural by Aaron Robitaille was completed on Monday, July 18 as part of the City of Peterborough's 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative.  (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
The “Odoonabii” road mural by Aaron Robitaille was completed on Monday, July 18 as part of the City of Peterborough’s 2022 Renaissance on Hunter initiative. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)

The four sites are located in the temporary sidewalk spaces created by temporary changes to the downtown intended to create more pedestrian and patio spaces for the patio season. Hunter Street between George and Aylmer streets has temporarily become a one-lane, one-way street westbound to create additional patio and pedestrian spaces.

In other parts of the downtown, participating businesses create additional patio space by using the on-street parking area that is adjacent to their business. In partnership with the city, the DBIA maintains the plants in planter boxes placed alongside decorative fencing for the new patio and pedestrian spaces.

Along with the road murals, artists have installed creative gardens in the planter boxes.

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In June, artist Cathy Ogrodnik completed her Renaissance on Hunter garden installation "Avian Dreams". The artist has had to repair the installation several times since due to vandalism. (Photos: Cathy Ogrodnik)
In June, artist Cathy Ogrodnik completed her Renaissance on Hunter garden installation “Avian Dreams”. The artist has had to repair the installation several times since due to vandalism. (Photos: Cathy Ogrodnik)
In June, artist Krista Ouellette completed her Renaissance on Hunter garden installation "Dog Park".  (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)
In June, artist Krista Ouellette completed her Renaissance on Hunter garden installation “Dog Park”. (Photo: City of Peterborough Public Art Program / Facebook)

For more information about the City of Peterborough’s Public Art Program, visit peterborough.ca/publicart.

KNosh News – July 2022

Travis Berlenbach's Trip Taco in Peterborough offers tacos inspired by cuisines around the world. There's also Bill's Biggie, a Peterborough-inspired taco that comes stuffed in a cheese quesadilla. (Photo: Trip Taco)

This month, food writer Eva Fisher takes a trip around the taco bar with Trip Taco in Peterborough, talks to Tammy Thurston about Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop’s move to Fenelon Falls, orders delivery with Papa’s Pizzaland’s upcoming Norwood location, and grabs an early morning coffee with Burleigh Beanz near Burleigh Falls.

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Trip Taco brings a world of possibilities to the tortilla in a new building

Trip Taco's new kitchen is located at 1794 Chemong Road in Peterborough, the same location as the previous food truck operation. (Photo: Trip Taco)
Trip Taco’s new kitchen is located at 1794 Chemong Road in Peterborough, the same location as the previous food truck operation. (Photo: Trip Taco)

Tacos meet world cuisine at Trip Taco (1794 Chemong Rd., Peterborough), a north-end taco stop owned by Travis Berlenbach.

Trip Taco opened in 2020 as a food truck, but they recently held a grand opening to celebrate the launch of their new kitchen, which was built in an outbuilding already existing on the property of their Chemong Road location. This new setup will allow the taco truck to go mobile and cater events.

The name Trip Taco references a menu that can feel like a trip around the world: the Turong Den is Vietnamese inspired, with braised pork, pickled cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and cabbage. The Jamaican Jerk is topped with jerk sauce, pineapple salsa, crema, and cilantro. There are options inspired by Greece, the U.S., and Peterborough, Ontario, as well as a classic Mexican Carnitas taco topped with pickled red cabbage, house crema, and cilantro.

Trip Taco's Turong Den is inspired by Vietnamese cuisine and features slow cooked pork with hoisin, sriracha, pickled cabbage and carrots topped with cilantro and optional jalapeno. (Photo: Trip Taco)
Trip Taco’s Turong Den is inspired by Vietnamese cuisine and features slow cooked pork with hoisin, sriracha, pickled cabbage and carrots topped with cilantro and optional jalapeno. (Photo: Trip Taco)

Travis has worked as a cook for 27 years, and has learned from chefs specializing in a variety of cuisines.

“I worked mostly in fine dining restaurants with some incredible chefs with various backgrounds from around the world: a Chinese chef, a French chef, Italian, Mexican, Spanish…”

Travis’s first foray into reinventing the taco was the Big Tac: two all-beef tacos with special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and toasted sesame seeds inspired, of course, by the Big Mac.

Travis Berlenbach poses with his daughter at the takeout window of Trip Taco, a north-end Peterborough taco joint that specializes in tacos inspired by world cuisine. (Photo: Trip Taco)
Travis Berlenbach poses with his daughter at the takeout window of Trip Taco, a north-end Peterborough taco joint that specializes in tacos inspired by world cuisine. (Photo: Trip Taco)

“The Big Mac taco started me thinking outside the box,” Travis recalls. “It was my first restaurant and I kind of had a boring menu at first. But then I thought, ‘Why am I doing that? I can do whatever I want.’ And then I started thinking about all of the cooks and chefs I worked with over the years, and I started thinking about all of the flavours I love, so I started doing stuff that was inspired from around the world.”

Trip Taco is open from 11:30 a.m. to 7 pm Tuesday to Friday, noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. On Sundays you can often enjoy your tacos with a side of live music.

You can follow Trip Taco on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop reconnects with small-town roots in Fenelon Falls

Thurston's Family Butcher Shop opened on July 2nd  at 17 Colborne Stree in Fenelon Falls. The Thurston family has been in the business for 36 years with previous locations in Dunsford and Lindsay. (Photo: Fenelon Falls Facebook page)
Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop opened on July 2nd at 17 Colborne Stree in Fenelon Falls. The Thurston family has been in the business for 36 years with previous locations in Dunsford and Lindsay. (Photo: Fenelon Falls Facebook page)

After 36 years in the business, the Thurston family opened their new butcher shop on July 2nd in Fenelon Falls at 17 Colborne Street.

Tammy Thurston, who manages and co-owns Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop with her parents Len and Patti, says the move allows the Thurston family to focus their business and do what they love the most.

“We found that we couldn’t do — or my parents especially couldn’t do — the full process butcher shop any more. It’s a lot of physical work. So we decided also that we wanted to find a small town that represented what we’ve represented for years.”

Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop began as a small-town business, so moving to Fenelon Falls was a natural next step.

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“We started in Dunsford and moved to Lindsay and we found that Fenelon didn’t have a butcher shop here and everybody said it was really needed,” Tammy says, adding Fenelon Falls has since accepted them with open arms. “Everybody’s so welcoming.”

Thurston’s offers a variety of meat cuts and some specialty offerings including eight different flavours of meat pie, meat trays, charcuterie boards, and more. Tammy credits staff member Dave Moore with most of the from-scratch items, such as sausage, hamburger patties, and sausage patties.

“He’s been with us for 18 years and he’s a major part of the business that we’ve built.”

Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop also makes it a priority to offer products from other local families in business.

“Our main focus is we carry as much local as possible,” Tammy says. :We have local honey companies, local barbecue sauces, and when we say local they’re literally other families like us that, some of them are as far away as Brighton area but they are all people that we’ve met along the way in these 36 years of doing business.”

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In addition to meat, honey and sauces Thurston’s Family Butcher partners with local bakers who make wedding cakes, birthday cakes and specialty cookies. You can also order cheesecakes from Cake by the Lake. The shop also plans to bring back their delivery service by partnering with Food Transit.

The Thurston family is currently planning a grand opening event for the shop, with the date to be determined.

Thurston’s Family Butcher Shop is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 705-887-7773.

 

Papa’s Pizzaland to open a new Norwood location

Papa's Pizzaland's new Norwood location will feature their full menu of specialty and classic pizza, including their Chicken Parmesan pizza with garlic butter base, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, chicken, Italian herbs, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. (Photo: Papa's Pizzaland)
Papa’s Pizzaland’s new Norwood location will feature their full menu of specialty and classic pizza, including their Chicken Parmesan pizza with garlic butter base, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, chicken, Italian herbs, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. (Photo: Papa’s Pizzaland)

Beginning this August, Papa’s Pizzaland will offer their delicious specialty pizzas in a new Norwood location at 4294 Highway 7.

Customer service and media manager William O’Brien (brother of owner Jessica O’Brien)says that their goal is to finish renovations and open on Monday, August 1st.

The delivery area will include Norwood, Madoc, Hastings, Douro, Warsaw, and everywhere in-between.

The menu will be similar to other Papa’s Pizzaland locations, with a variety of specialties. William’s picks are the Chilli Cheesesteak, the Chicken Parmesan Pizza, and the Barbecue Chicken Pizza.

“It’s a classic — you can’t beat it,” he says.

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Papa’s Pizzaland is known for offering pizza fundraisers, when a portion of proceeds from the nightly special go to support community causes. A recent fundraiser at the Peterborough location (2695 Marsdale Dr. #2, 705-874-9898) raised $1,000 for Kaawaate East City Public School in Peterborough

In addition to Peterborough and upcoming Norwood locations, Papa’s Pizzaland has restaurants in Cobourg, Courtice, Port Perry, Port Hope, Newcastle. and Bowmanville.

You can order online for delivery or pick-up at papaspizzaland.meemup.com.

 

Wake up early with Burleigh Beanz near Burleigh Falls

Burleigh Beanz recently opened in a rustic cabin just outside of Burleigh Falls to serve early risers and coffee lovers in the area. The coffee starts pouring at 6 a.m. (Photo: Burleigh Beanz)
Burleigh Beanz recently opened in a rustic cabin just outside of Burleigh Falls to serve early risers and coffee lovers in the area. The coffee starts pouring at 6 a.m. (Photo: Burleigh Beanz)

Early morning is a beautiful time at the cottage but, if you haven’t had your morning cup of coffee, you might not think so. Shawn Englefield is the owner of Burleigh Beanz (4699 Highway 28, Lakefield, 289-600-0295), a new coffee shop that starts service early at 6 a.m. for Burleigh Falls area residents and cottagers.

Shawn saw the opportunity for a business like this when he himself was looking for an early morning coffee in the area.

“I decided to open Burleigh Beanz because there is no local coffee shop open before 10 a.m.,” he says. “Myself being an early riser, I searched for a local coffee shop in the general area open at 6 a.m. and found nothing.”

In addition to coffee, Burleigh Beanz sells snacks and a variety of artisan crafts and gifts. (Photo: Burleigh Beanz)
In addition to coffee, Burleigh Beanz sells snacks and a variety of artisan crafts and gifts. (Photo: Burleigh Beanz)

Located in a rustic cabin, Burleigh Beanz sells regular coffee, a flavour of the day and decaffeinated, with a variety of milk and creamers available. You can also purchase flavoured and regular teas, as well as a variety of snack treats including hay stacks, rice krispie squares, and butter tarts.

This is Shawn’s first time owning his own business, but he has experience in retail management.

“I have ran other retailer businesses for a number of years and I love interacting with people and meeting new faces.”

In addition to coffee and food, Burleigh Beanz carries a selection of artisanal gift items including local and custom acrylic and water colour paintings, lava rock and stone jewelry, blown glass jewelry, and pyrography wood work.

Burleigh Beanz is open from 6 a.m. to noon Wednesday to Sunday. You can also find them on Facebook.

Peterborough city council votes to allow demolition of former Montreal House

Now home to Dr. J's restaurant, the building at the corner of Aylmer and King streets in downtown Peterborough was formerly the Montreal House, with the original structure dating back to as early as 1858. (Photo: kawarthaNOW via Peterborough's Architectural Heritage, 1978)

Despite a recommendation from the city’s heritage committee, Peterborough city council voted during a general committee meeting on Monday (July 18) to remove the former Montreal House from the city’s heritage register and to not designate it as a heritage building.

Based on a recommendation in a report from city staff, council’s decision means property developer Ashburnham Realty can proceed with its request to demolish the building for the commercial and residential development at the corner of King and Aylmer, part of the city’s Louis Street urban park development.

Originally called the Montreal House, the building at 282 Aylmer Street North was constructed in the 1850s and later became a residence for French Canadian lumbermen working the forests north of Peterborough under the ownership of a French Canadian named Joseph Brault. By the early 20th century, the Montreal House was under ownership of an English Canadian and its residents broadened to include workers in the major industries such as Canadian General Electric that had arrived in the city.

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Later it became a men’s only drinking establishment. By the late 20th century, the Montreal House was known as a venue for emerging bands and hosted numerous acts that have since found local and national renown. In 2014, it became the location of Dr. J’s BBQ & Brews restaurant.

Ashburnham Realty purchased the property in 2020 with the intention of developing the residential and commercial building at the corner of King and Aylmer. Originally, the plans were to maintain the existing building or reconstruct it as part of the new development but maintain the restaurant. However, in May, Ashburnham Realty owner Paul Bennett submitted a request to the city to demolish the building.

Under the Ontario Heritage Act, city council must consult with its heritage committee before making a decision about a building on the heritage register. On June 23, Bennett and Lett Architects Inc. design principal Michael Gallant made a presentation to the Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee.

A conceptual rendering of Ashburnham Realty's commercial and residential development in the City of Peterborough's Louis Street urban park development if the former Montreal House building is demolished, looking northwest from King Street and Louis Street, with a five-storey podium including a restaurant and eight-storey apartment building behind it. (kawarthaNOW screenshot of Lett Architects Inc. presentation)
A conceptual rendering of Ashburnham Realty’s commercial and residential development in the City of Peterborough’s Louis Street urban park development if the former Montreal House building is demolished, looking northwest from King Street and Louis Street, with a five-storey podium including a restaurant and eight-storey apartment building behind it. (kawarthaNOW screenshot of Lett Architects Inc. presentation)

During the presentation, Gallant explained the building could no longer be incorporated into the design for the commercial and residential development, mainly because of flood plain requirements and the need for the finished floor elevation to be above existing grades. Bennett said the building had to be demolished for the development to proceed.

Although committee members recognized the potential value to the community of the development — which will include 75 below-market-rate units subsidized through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation as well as washrooms, a change room area, and storage space to support the urban park — they ultimately recommended to city council the building receive a heritage designation because of its heritage value.

At its July 18th general committee meeting, council considered a report from Sandra Clancy, the city’s chief administrative officer, that recommended the building not receive a heritage designation.

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“The recommendation to not designate the Montreal House under the Ontario Heritage Act will allow this development to move forward in a way that will provide much needed affordable housing to our community, enhance the streetscape, protect the investment made at the urban park by providing the necessary facilities and mitigate impacts to the floodplain,” the report reads.

“It is staff’s recommendation that the Montreal House, located at 282 Aylmer Street North, not be designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, 1990. The approval of this recommendation would permit the demolition of the Heritage Listed building.”

“The demolition of this building would facilitate the construction of an 8-storey mixed use building with 75 residential units. The residential units will be composed of below market rent units through a partnership with CMHC. Given the timelines associated with the CMHC funding, Ashburnham Realty requires a commitment from the City to move forward with the public-private partnership by the end of July 2022.”

Council voted to accept the staff recommendation, with councillors Dean Pappas and Stephen Wright voting against it and councillor Kemi Akapo abstaining from the vote because of a pecuniary interest.

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