Northumberland-based spa and beauty supplier L'Moor is hosting two hands-on courses for estheticians and nail technicians at Venture13 in Cobourg on March 3, 2025. "Perfecting P+ Gel Polish" and "Mastering JimmyGel" fulfill the 300-level course requirement for the Light Elegance University Bachelor's Degree. (Photo courtesy of L'Moor)
Picking up where college-level courses leave off, Northumberland-based L’Moor is providing spa and esthetic business owners with a local training opportunity to support their team’s professional development.
Through two half-day certificate courses focused on delivering long-lasting and safe manicures, both new and experienced estheticians and nail technicians can stay skilled and up to date.
Founded by Bonnie Annis and William Roderick, L’Moor is a Canadian supplier of spa products and equipment coming up on 19 years in business. The company supports estheticians and spa owners through education and mentorship, focusing on safe, healthy, and sustainable products and practices. Through their national and provincial sponsorship of skilled trade competitions, ongoing classes, and weekly education series Esthies and Their Besties, they’ve fostered a supportive community where industry professionals can connect, share insights, and grow their businesses.
On Monday, March 3, L’Moor is hosting two back-to-back courses at Venture13 (739 D’Arcy St., Cobourg) that include a combination of demonstrations, hands-on activities, one-on-one guidance, and a Q&A. Classes will be taught by Mackenzie Annis, esthetician and owner of Lilac Spa and Esthetics in Peterborough, who is one of only three certified Light Elegance (LE) Educators in Canada.
“It’s a huge deal to have this level of education locally,” says Bonnie. “Mackenzie is very good at educating and cares that students are successful.”
Mackenzie Annis, one of only three certified Light Elegance Educators in Canada, will be teaching the “Perfecting P+ Gel Polish” and “Mastering JimmyGel” classes at Venture13 in Cobourg on March 3, 2025. She is also owner of Lilac Spa and Esthetics in Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of L’Moor)
Running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., “LE314: Perfecting P+ Gel Polish” is focused on using the award-winning line of gel polish, where participants will learn the P+ Gel Polish system, master FastFile Fill techniques, and perfect their nail preparation skills.
The “LE 313: Mastering JimmyGel” workshop will run directly after from 1 to 5 p.m. and will cover the skills required to create manicures and extensions using the versatility of JimmyGel, a soak-off builder gel with brush-bottle application. The course will also explore different options for adding LE Colour and Glitter Gels, as well as the proper maintenance of JimmyGel for fills and complete product removal.
Both classes will include demonstrations of safe application processes using the LE products, which are all vegan and HEMA-free. Participants of either class will leave with a certificate as proof of meeting the 300-level class qualification required for completion of the LE University Bachelor’s Degree.
While each class is available individually at a rate of $179, participants can save $59 and get lunch included when they sign up for both classes at a cost of $299.
Know Your Locals™ is a branded editorial feature about locally owned independent businesses and locally operated organizations, and supported by them. If your business or organization is interested in being featured in a future “Know Your Locals” branded editorial, contact Jeannine Taylor at 705-742-6404 or jt@kawarthanow.com or visit our Advertise with kawarthaNOW page.
Bancroft's A Place for the Arts is calling on local artists to help revitalize the mural on the west side of the 23 Bridge Street building. With the blessing of the original mural's artist, Arne Roosman, the revitalization will be done throughout July and August 2025 and will include overlaying a collage of natural scenes to fill out two giant dragonflies and a firefly in the mural's foreground. (Photo: Megan Gallant / kawarthaNOW)
Calling all professional and hobbyist painters in Bancroft and area: A Place for the Arts (APFTA) wants to know what you love most about the region. The artist-run cooperative is seeking community artists to help revitalize a mural on the side of their building with natural scenes that show off the best the town has to offer.
“What we’re trying to bring back is pre-colonial history and nature, because that’s what Bancroft is actually about and how it grew,” says APFTA communications and marketing manager Gayle Crosmaz.
The mural in question is located at 23 Bridge Street on the west side of the building, visible alongside the York River when entering downtown Bancroft. Painted by renowned and award-winning local artist Arne Roosman in 2014, the 44-foot-long mural depicts the history of Bancroft and area since the arrival of settlers.
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Roosman was born in Estonia in 1932 and studied art in Sweden before coming to Canada in 1957, where he worked as a lithographer, book designer, and artist. When he retired in 1988, he and his wife moved to the Bancroft area, where Roosman continued to work as a freelance artist. Now 92, Roosman lives in Coe Hill.
The vibrant colours of Roosman’s mural have chipped and faded away in recent years, prompting building owner Burke Chamberlin to reach out to APFTA to gather up the group of artists to show the mural some love by repainting it, with Roosman’s blessing.
“Everyone’s going to have a different style of painting, so there’s no way that we could actually reproduce what was there — I don’t even know what was all there — so I had to come up with a different plan on how we could make it different on purpose,” says Crosmaz.
In 2014, renowned local artist Arne Roosman painted an 11-panel, 44-foot mural on the western side of the building at 23 Bridge Street in Bancroft. With his permission, A Place for the Arts is calling on regional professional and hobbyist artists to help revitalize the mural throughout July and August. (Photo courtesy of A Place for the Arts)
Crosmaz, a visual artist whose work travels to 12 countries across the globe and a former muralist who has previously organized projects of a similar calibre, has outlined the proposed redesign which consists of overlaying two giant dragon flies and a firefly as a basis for a collage.
“It’ll be from a bug’s eye view if you were laying in the grass looking up at the mural,” Crosmaz explains. “Two-thirds of the mural is going to remain as a ghosting background because that is the past and then the foreground is nature coming back in full force.”
“Because (the current pieces are) faded with the sun, we’re going to revarnish the area that we’ve saved so that they will be protected, but it pushes it into the background, giving it a nice backdrop for the new mural that’s laid on top of it. So it’s a collage in the shapes of leaves, flowers, and bugs.”
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The design has been broken down into more than 100 segments for artists in the community to paint various scenes that either depict pre-colonial history or the natural aspects they love most about the region.
The leaves and grass area will have the scenes depicted in natural colours of greens, golds, and reds, while the dragonflies will be in cooler tones and the firefly will be in warmer tones to stand out in the foreground of the mural.
In the middle, the firefly will be reserved for Algonquin First Nations artists to create representations of Algonquin teachings through their Wàwàtesi (firefly) Cultural Discovery Project, an ongoing series of experiences that introduce Algonquin culture and art to those who live in the region.
Born in Estonia in 1932, Arne Roosman studied art in Sweden before coming to Canada in 1957, where he worked as a lithographer, book designer, and artist. When he retired in 1988, he and his wife moved to the Bancroft area, where Roosman continued to work as a freelance artist. Now 92, Roosman lives in Coe Hill. (Photo courtesy of Apsley Autumn Studio Tour)
Following the success of student art shows at APFTA, artists at the North Hastings High School have also been invited to paint segments of the new mural.
“Professionals, non-professionals, hobbyist — everyone can come,” Crosmaz says. “If you’re not confident, you can pick a small square, and if you’re real confident, you can pick a big one. It’s open to everybody.”
Throughout March, a “prototype” of the mural will be available in the Annex Gallery at APFTA for artists to assess and select the segment or segments they would like to work on.
“We have guidelines and when we take people’s names and contact information, they’ll indicate what they want to paint — whether it’s a black bear, an eagle’s nest, or whatever else they decide — so we get a good diversity of perspectives of the area and what they love about it,” Crosmaz says. “It’s going to be like a tourist guide.”
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With the cost of supplies having already been raised through donations and community sponsors, the painting will take place this summer throughout July and August.
Half of the mural’s 11 four-by-eight-foot panels will be worked on throughout July, while the remainder will be revitalized throughout August.
Artists will work indoors in the Annex Gallery, with the building’s barn doors opened to the street so pedestrians and passers-by can see the project taking form. Crosmaz is also hoping to recruit a cinematographer to film the project and potentially use the clips to create a documentary at the end of the summer.
A Place for the Arts has launched a new project to revitalize a 10-year-old mural at 23 Bridge Street in Bancroft. Painted by renowned local artist Arne Roosman, many portions of the mural are now faded and chipped. The project calls on local artists to revarnish the older areas while painting new scenes, with a focus on nature, on top. (Photo: Megan Gallant / kawarthaNOW)
Upon completion, there will be a plaque situated beside the mural with the names of sponsors and those who lent their time and talents for its rejuvenation.
“People can find their family member or friends and know where they painted their little scene,” says Crosmaz.
She plans to organize a celebratory party in September for the reveal and installation of the new mural.
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“It’s bringing attention to our little corner of Bancroft,” Crosmaz says.
“It’s such a through street — everybody’s coming off (Highway) 28 or 62 and going somewhere else — and a lot of people don’t even know that we even exist. We’re creating a long-term event that will bring people to the area, so they will come back.”
Painted in 2014 by renowned local artist Arne Roosman, the mural at the west side of the building at 23 Bridge Street in Bancroft depicts a timeline of post-colonial history in the region. The proposed design of the revitalization project will see two giant dragonflies and a firefly overlaid on top of the original design, which depicts Bancroft and area history over the past 200 years. (kawarthaNOW collages of photos courtesy of A Place for the Arts)
On February 12, 2025, Yamaha Financial Services presented Northumberland County with a $12,732.32 cheque for the Northumberland County Forest as part of the 2024 Stay Outdoors grant program. The funds will support the installation of fencing, gates, and signage to help protect environmentally sensitive areas as well as the planting of 160 native species to restore damaged ecosystems. (Photo: Northumberland County)
From planting 160 native species to installing fencing, gates, and signage to help protect environmentally sensitive areas, the Northumberland County Forest will receive a boost to its ecosystem this year thanks to a recent grant.
County staff and others gathered at the McDonald Trailhead in the Northumberland County Forest on February 12 with representatives from Yamaha Financial Services to accept a $12,732.32 cheque as part of the 2024 Stay Outdoors grant program.
The funding will support the installation of 121.92 metres of fencing, two gates, and 20 regulatory signs to protect environmentally sensitive areas in the county forest. These additions will help safeguard species such as the endangered mottled duskywing butterfly and monarch butterflies, noted the county in a media release.
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Additionally, the project will include planting 160 native species to restore damaged ecosystems. The county will also launch a campaign to promote environmental stewardship among trail users.
“It was wonderful to work with Yamaha on this,” Kate Campbell, Northumberland County’s director of communications and information technology, told kawarthaNOW.
She said the spring should lend itself for installing the fencing and the planting will occur in either the spring or fall, depending on supply and availability.
“We are grateful for this grant, which will support conservation efforts in the Northumberland County Forest,” said Todd Farrell, county natural heritage manager, in a statement. “Improvements made thanks to this investment will help ensure the long-term health of this natural asset.”
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Launched in 2022, the Yamaha Financial Services Stay Outdoors program provides funding to Canadian registered charities and not-for-profit organizations to support conservation efforts, protect environmentally sensitive areas from illegal or inadvertent off-highway vehicle use, improve access to natural spaces, and promote the responsible use of trails, roads, and waterways for motorized recreation.
“Northumberland County’s project is a great example of how responsible land use and motorsports can coexist,” said David Bezerra, president of Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation – Canada. “By prioritizing environmental stewardship, it reinforces Yamaha Financial Services’ mission to support sustainable outdoor recreation while protecting the natural spaces we all enjoy.”
The project will help protect the forest while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors, the county added.
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Northumberland County Forest is intended to offer residents and visitors a place to appreciate plants and wildlife while preserving forest ecosystems and providing ecological benefits to Northumberland County.
The forest features over 118 kilometres of trails, including around 54 kilometres of single-track and double-track trails that are open for for ATVs and off-road motorcycles from May 16 to September 30.
The county’s forest services also manages annual timber harvesting in the forest, as well as invasive species, weed and forest conservation (tree) bylaw enforcement.
For more information about the county forest and its trail network, visit northumberland.ca/forest.
Peterborough Musicians Benevolent Association (PMBA) board members look on as pianist Rob Phillips announces a donation of $50,000 from supporter Lynn Morris at the February 15, 2025 PMBA blues jam at The Social in downtown Peterborough. Morris died two days later after a lengthy battle with cancer. (Photo: Andy Carroll)
The Peterborough Musicians Benevolent Association (PMBA) has received the largest donation in its history, but has done so with the heaviest of hearts.
Lynn Morris, a fervent and passionate supporter of Peterborough musicians who was a familiar face at live music events in the city, died last Monday (February 17) following a lengthy battle with cancer. She was 67.
Two days earlier, at the monthly PMBA blues jam fundraiser at The Social, headlining act Rob Phillips, cheque in hand, announced that Morris had gifted $50,000 to the association.
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To put that in perspective, the PMBA, which provides financial assistance to musicians in need, raised just more than $8,500 during the period from its January 2014 inception until August 2016.
Peterborough real estate agent Jo Pillon, a member of the PMBA’s founding board, says Morris was in palliative care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre on the day her donation was announced. Pillon recorded the announcement at PMBA with her phone and shared it with Morris.
“She hearted it, so I know she saw it,” says Pillon. “The show was dedicated to Lynn. He (Phillips) brought up the cheque, donated it to us, and talked a little bit about the PMBA and what we do. I recorded the whole thing and sent it to Lynn.”
Lynn Morris with American blues guitarist and singer Junior Watson at the 2010 Beaches Jazzfest in Toronto. Morris was a longtime fan of blues music as well as a fervent supporter of Peterborough musicians. (Photo: Lynn Morris / Facebook)
“I spent two hours with her earlier on the day of the show,” adds Pillon. “We had a really good visit. I felt good about being able to say goodbye to her.”
“She was a fighter, for sure, but during her recovery from chemotherapy and radiation treatments, she fell at home and broke her hip. She was hospitalized again for hip surgery. She rallied from that and, even though it was difficult for her, she still came out to PMBA events, sometimes on her own.”
Morris asked Pillon to organize her celebration of life and she’s in the process of doing just that, with help from Al Black and Phillips. Details are still being worked out but it will held Sunday, April 13 at The Social and, yes, local musicians will be featured at the event.
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“She was adamant she didn’t want to have it while she was still with us,” says Pillon, adding “I’m honoured that she entrusted me with organizing her celebration of life.”
“About two months ago, I took Lynn to The Social to meet with (co-owner) Cole (Akey) and look at the menu. She picked out what she wanted. I expect a fair number of people will come out that day.”
As a lasting tribute to Morris, Pillon says an award presented annually by the PMBA to the Peterborough Folk Festival’s Emerging Artist will be renamed the Lynn Morris Memorial Award.
Lynn Morris, who passed away on February 17, 2025 at the age of 67 after a lengthy battle with cancer, pictured with her partner Al Kirkcaldy at Kitchener Bluesfest in an undated photo. Kirkcaldy also passed away from cancer in 2009. (Photo: Lynn Morris / Facebook)
Morris’ love of music, and those who perform it, was rooted in her relationship with the late Al Kirkcaldy. He produced and hosted Blue in the Face on Trent Radio for 15 years, and brought a number of top blues acts to Peterborough before he died of cancer in February 2009.
Binding Pillon’s more than 30 years of friendship with Morris was the fact that she too lost her partner prematurely, when singer and keyboardist Phil ‘Mr. Deluxe’ Marshall died suddenly in December 2013.
Wanting to keep alive Marshall’s tradition of helping musicians in need, she approached Don McBride, Norm Kastner, former Pig’s Ear Tavern owner John Punter, and Black to help her establish the PMBA. Debuting in January 2014, the monthly jam was initially held at the Pig’s Ear before moving, first to Dr. J’s BBQ and Brews, and most recently to The Social.
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Morris was also a regular patron of the weekly Sunday Blues Jam at Jethro’s on Hunter Street West. In November 2023, she was quoted in a feature article on the jam published by kawarthaNOW.
“It’s the calibre of the entertainment that brings me out,” she said, adding “You never know who’s going to show up.”
As for Pillon, she is sad that her friend is gone but knows Morris be there in spirit at her celebration of life.
“She was a strong personality — she knew what she wanted and she knew what she liked, and she wasn’t afraid to tell people. I’m going to miss her.”
The Nogojiwanong Indigenous Fringe Festival (NIFF) is accepting applications from Indigenous visual artists to have their work displayed during the 2025 festival running from June 19 to 22 at the Peterborough Theatre Guild. Both Indigenous artists who may not have exhibited before or established artists who have new work to show are encouraged to apply. Pictured is a work by Nuin-Tara Wilson ᓄᐃᓐᑕᕋ Star Daughter Woman, a Cree artist residing in Nogojiwanong/Peterborough. (Photo: Sadleir House / Instagram)
Organizers of the 2025 Nogojiwanong Indigenous Fringe Festival (NIFF) are expanding the festival’s canvas to include the work of visual artists.
NIFF has announced it is opening the fringe festival’s roster to submissions from Indigenous visual artists this year.
With its move from Trent University to the Peterborough Theatre Guild, NIFF — considered to be the only Indigenous fringe festival in the world — will have access to a space that is regularly used for art exhibits. Organizers recognized an opportunity to bring Indigenous visual art to NIFF in addition to the line-up of performing artists.
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“Our hope is that we will encourage Indigenous artists who may not have exhibited before, or who have new work to show, to apply,” NIFF’s general manager Lee Bolton told kawarthaNOW.
“As with all things fringe, the selection will be made by lottery, so everyone has an equal chance. We have room for a number of pieces of various sizes and any subject matter suitable for a general public, as long as they are in a format we can hang on a wall.”
Since 2021, NIFF has been bringing Indigenous performing artists to Peterborough. Now, Indigenous visual artists are also invited to apply to exhibit their work via the NIFF website at www.indigenousfringefest.ca.
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Selected artists will be invited to hang their work in the public areas of NIFF’s space at the Peterborough Theatre Guild. Each artist may submit several pieces. Applications are now open and will close on March 31.
“Each year at NIFF we showcase Indigenous performance across all genres, and we also provide space for Indigenous vendors to highlight their creations,” NIFF artistic director Joeann Argue said in a media release.
“This year we are excited to expand our offerings to include visual artists, adding yet another layer of Indigenous artistry to the festival.”
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NIFF 2025 will feature four days of performances and activities from June 19 to 22 at the Guild’s location at 364 Rogers St. in Peterborough’s East City.
Additional, general information about NIFF is available on the festival’s website. A full schedule, including all special events, family activities and vendors, will be available in April. Ticket sales will start in May.
“There are so many amazing Indigenous visual artists, and adding their work to the amazing performances we get every year will give the people who come to NIFF a deeper and broader experience,” Bolton said about her hopes for the festival overall.
To encourage the exploration of creative expression, the Art Gallery of Peterborough offers educational arts programming for people of all ages and skill levels, all led by established educators and artists from within the local community. From the Art Start! program for young children to the portfolio development program for teens and the art camp for adults, there are many programs exploring a range of art practices scheduled in 2025. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
There is no limit to who can engage with the arts. Whether you’re young or old, experienced or a beginner, doing it professionally or just for fun, the Art Gallery of Peterborough has educational programming to inspire your creative pursuits.
Following the success of its 50th anniversary last year, the non-profit public art gallery has been adding new educational art programs that foster the exploration of creative expression for everyone while celebrating the arts in the Peterborough and Kawarthas region.
“Since the pandemic and the experience of being shut down and having to move online, a lot of these programs have been refreshed with our recommitment to showing how important and vital the visual arts culture is,” says Art Gallery of Peterborough director Celeste Scopelites. “We have a nice complement of programs that have evolved over the last couple of years.”
Each of the instructors for the educational programs offered by the Art Gallery of Peterborough are experienced artists and educators in the region. Coming from a range of different professional backgrounds and experience in different disciplines and mediums, they foster a supportive environment for beginner artists to learn and express themselves through art. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
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According to Scopelites, arts education has been an integral component of the gallery since it was founded.
“The experience of being with art in a gallery space is something that makes our programs truly unique,” she says.
Registration fees for each of the educational programs go towards the costs of running them, including purchasing supplies and paying the instructors, who are established educators and artists from within the local community.
“They are known within our communities and bring something special through their art practice,” says acting education programming coordinator Dorothea Hines. “They have a very special impact in their community because they focus on community engagement in development and appreciation through their art practices or through their art teaching practices.”
The Art Gallery of Peterborough’s new monthly Art Start! program encourages children ages 4 to 6 to learn to be creative and express themselves. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
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The Art Gallery of Peterborough is expanding this appreciation for the arts to young children with the all-new Art Start! program for children ages 4 to 6. A companion to the Saturday Art Club for children ages 7 to 11, the monthly program focuses on developing creativity and enthusiasm for art making from a young age.
“It introduces children to various techniques that they can do as they get older,” says Hines. “It’s one way to focus on creatively thinking outside of the box, but also to develop a strong sense of self in exploring their identity.”
The half-day “Fun with Shapes” Art Start! workshop on Saturday, February 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. will be led by printmaker and fibre artist Julia Szabo, who will help children explore basic shapes through drawing and cutting. The participants will create fun collages using different materials, developing their fine motor skills and creativity.
Other upcoming workshops will be on puppet making (March 29), sensory art (April 26), sea-themed art (May 31), and printmaking (June 28). The fee for each half-day workshop is $33 per child.
“The workshops encourage exploration using a creative spirit,” Scopelites explains. “Art can be an entry point into different areas like graphic arts and architecture, science, and ecology. Encouraging a comfort level with the different mediums when children are young helps feed into all these other avenues.”
During the Saturday Art Club, children aged 7 to 11 explore a range of arts and disciplines under the guidance of experienced local artists and educators. Upcoming projects include designing a mosaic, creating optical illusion art, learning to sculpt with clay, and capturing nature on canvas through landscape painting. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
For older children, upcoming Saturday Art Club workshops will explore mosaics (March 22), optical illusion art (April 19), clay sculptures (May 24), and landscape painting (June 21). As with the Art Start! program, the fee for each half-day workshop is $33 per child.
The Art Gallery of Peterborough is also continuing to offer its PA Day Program, featuring half-day workshops that explore a range of techniques and media for children ages 7 to 11. The next workshop is scheduled for Friday, March 7, when multi-disciplinary artist Alexandra Box will guide participants in using potatoes for relief printing and create patterns on paper and fabric.
“It’s a great example of how you can use just everyday materials that are more or less accessible, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money on it to develop it into a printing project,” says Hines.
Other PA Day Program workshops take place on April 11 and June 27. The fee for each half-day workshop is $33 per child.
In addition to hosting educational programming on PA days in alignment with the Ontario curriculum, the Art Gallery of Peterborough is hosting the March Break Camp from March 10 to 14, 2025. Throughout the week, children will explore a range of art practices under the guidance of artist and educator Lesley Givens, and the week will conclude with an exhibit of the completed projects. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
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For children who want to try it all, the Art Gallery of Peterborough is hosting its annual March Break Art Camp for children ages 7 to 11. Each afternoon from March 10 to 14, participants will learn about different artists and create artwork inspired by their artistic practices, styles, and techniques. The cost for the week is $165 per child.
This year’s March Break Art Camp will be led by Lesley Givens, a longtime teacher with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board who specializes in both individual art making techniques and communal artmaking techniques. At the end of the week, the camp participants will display their work and invite their family and friends to see all that they have accomplished.
“There is a lot of one-on-one time, and we have volunteers and program assistants so there is support and, if you need a hand, someone will come and help,” Hines says about the intimate group size. “By the end of the week, they’re actually quite a tight-knit group.”
The March Break Art Camp will be led by Lesley Givens (left), a longtime teacher with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board who specializes in both individual art making techniques and communal artmaking techniques. Ceramic and printmaking artist Alexandra Box (right) is one of the practising artists who will be leading the Portfolio Development for Teens program. (Photos courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
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For children ages 11 to 14 who are looking to get into a secondary school art program, the Art Gallery of Peterborough offers the Portfolio Development for Teens program. Running twice per year, the new four-week course will help participants develop skills and techniques that boost their creativity, while emphasizing the importance of experimentation and taking risks.
Course leaders for the spring session, which kicks off on Thursday, April 24, include ceramic and printmaking artist Alexandra Box, letterpress artist Jeffrey Macklin, and multidisciplinary artist Justine-Marie Williams. The program runs every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. until May 15, at a cost of $132 per participant.
“This is a program that’s led by practising artists who know about the application process and what a good portfolio looks like at the high school level and at a post-secondary level,” says Hines.
The opening reception for “Figuring Identity”, an exhibition of work from participants in the 2024 Youth Art Mentorship Program. The program is led by Dr. Spencer J. Harrison (back right), an educator with OCAD University whose paintings and installation-based artworks have been exhibited internationally. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
Senior high school students who are looking to prepare their applications for post-secondary arts programs can apply for the Art Gallery of Peterborough’s intensive Youth Art Mentorship Program.
Selected youth artists will receive training in visual arts and creative administration, developing valuable skills as professional artists that can also lead to related careers such as animation, industrial design, and architecture.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Spencer J. Harrison, an educator with OCAD University whose paintings and installation-based artworks have been exhibited internationally, and with assistance from professional jurors, participants will create work for a public exhibition at the gallery.
Applications for the Youth Art Mentorship Program typically open in November each year. There is no cost to apply.
The monthly Adult Art Camp offers adults the opportunity to explore their inner creative child in a fun, social, and supportive environment. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Peterborough)
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Of course, young people can’t have all the creative fun, which is why the Art Gallery of Peterborough has launched the all-new monthly Adult Art Camp, which offers a casual and supportive environment on Thursday evenings where participants explore a new art form every month. No skills or previous experience are needed.
“It’s for adults who are not professional artists, but they want to develop technique, learn, and explore in a very relaxed, social way,” says Hines.
Upcoming workshops include eco printing (March 20), mixed media – collage and paint (April 17), sculpture – clay creations (May 22), and abstract watercolours (June 19). The cost for each workshop is $50, with materials and refreshments provided.
“People are enjoying being together with each other and it enhances and amplifies that learning experience when you see what your neighbour is doing at the next table,” Scopelites says. “We’ve received positive feedback about these art camps and we’re looking forward to continuing them.”
For more information about the educational programs and activities available at the Art Gallery of Peterborough and to register for upcoming workshops, visit agp.on.ca/learn/programs/.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with the Art Gallery of Peterborough. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) was the beneficiary of a recent fundraiser that saw volunteers from the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) student fraternity camp out in the parking lot of the Venture North building in downtown Peterborough from February 7 to 9, 2025, raising over $2,700 for affordable housing efforts. (Photo: TKE Peterborough)
Peterborough post-secondary students who recently braved the elements of a Canadian winter and hunkered down outdoors for 48 hours have helped raise more than $2,700 in support of area affordable housing efforts.
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) was the recipient of the proceeds from the 14th annual event that saw volunteers from the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) student fraternity camp out in the parking lot of the Venture North building in Peterborough from February 7 to 9.
Called “TKE in a Box,” the event involved male students from Peterborough’s Trent University and Fleming College spreading the word about the need for affordable housing and collecting money for Habitat PKR while they spent the two days outside in the city’s downtown core.
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“The TKE fundraiser was really fantastic,” Holly O’Connor, Habitat for Humanity PKR’s communications and marketing manager, told kawarthaNOW.
“It was definitely a chilly one for the volunteers, but that didn’t stop them at all. The community engagement was incredible — so many people took the time to stop by, ask questions, and learn more about Habitat’s mission.”
O’Connor popped by towards the end of the event and said, despite the freezing temperatures, the campers were still full of energy.
“It’s so inspiring to see young people stepping up for affordable housing, especially when they’re balancing school, work, and everything else. It really shows how much Trent and Fleming students see Peterborough as their home through the way they want to give back in meaningful ways,” O’Connor added.
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The endeavour raised a total of $2,786.75 for Habitat PKR.
“For the past 13 years, TKE in a Box has been a tradition for our fraternity, bringing us together with the community to raise both awareness and funds for local charities in Peterborough,” said TKE chapter president Benjamin Hofmann in a media release issued prior to the event.
“As the housing crisis continues to impact so many in Peterborough, it’s vital to support organizations like Habitat for Humanity PKR that provide affordable housing for families and individuals in need of stability.”
Over the years, TKE in a Box has supported various local organizations, including One City Peterborough and One Roof. This year marks the fourth consecutive year it has partnered with Habitat PKR.
Proceeds from the TKE in a Box fundraiser specifically support Habitat for Humanity PKR’s efforts to provide individuals and families with opportunities for affordable homeownership and housing across the Peterborough and Kawartha Region.
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One upcoming initiative includes a multi-unit condo project that could provide up to 41 affordable homeownership opportunities for local families and individuals, including seniors and single parents.
Habitat for Humanity PKR provides local families and individuals with a “hand-up” into affordable homeownership, with no down payment and geared-to-income mortgage payments.
The organization strives to help homeowners “achieve the stability, strength, and self-reliance they need to build better lives and are empowered to overcome the barriers that so often stand between their families and healthier, more financially stable futures,” according to its website.
The annual "Blue Valentine" show is a tribute by local musicians to the music of the late Peterborough singer-songwriter Willie P. Bennett. This year, "Blue Valentines" will also honour of the music of the late Peterborough singer-songwriters Cris Cuddy and Joe Hall. Emceed by "Washboard Hank" Fisher, the show runs on Saturday afternoon at Jethro's Bar + Stage in downtown Peterborough. (kawarthaNOW collage)
Every Thursday, kawarthaNOW publishes live music events at pubs and restaurants in Peterborough and the greater Kawarthas region based on information that musicians provide directly or that venues post on their websites or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, February 20 to Wednesday, February 26.
If you’re a musician or venue owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, email our nightlifeNOW editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com. For concerts and live music events at other venues, check out our Concerts & Live Music page.
With the exception of karaoke, we only list events with performing musicians. Venues may also host other events during the week (e.g., dancing, DJs, comedy shows).
Friday, February 28 7:30-10:30pm - Shuga w/ Rob Darling & Steven Van Trans of Bootleg XXX (no cover)
Saturday, March 15 8pm-12am - Bootleg XXX ($10)
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Jethro's Bar + Stage
137 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
705-931-0617
Thursday, February 20
9pm-12am - Jeanne Truax & Friends w/ Kayla Howran
Friday, February 21
6-8pm - Carpe Noctem; 8-10pm - The Rose Coloured Glasses; 10pm - Live music TBA
Saturday, February 22
2-5pm - Blue Valentines (tribute to Willie P. Bennett, Chris Cuddy, and Joe Hall); 6-8pm - Newberry Family Variety Hour(s); 8-10pm - Peter Graham; 10pm-12am - Tapes In Motion "Holy Socialites" release show
VIDEO: "Blackie And The Rodeo King" - Willie P. Bennett (1977)
VIDEO: "Rock on" - Cris Cuddy
VIDEO: Nos Hablos Telephones - Joe Hall & The Continental Drift
Sunday, February 23
3-6pm - Blues jam w/ Al Black
The John at Sadleir House
751 George St. N., Peterborough
705-742-3686
Coming Soon
Friday, March 28 7:30-8:30pm - Open mic; 8:30pm - Yackbard w/ Harrison Ford F-150 and Bouquet ($10 in advance at https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/51263/ or PWYC, with proceeds to support families in Gaza)
Wednesday, March 5 5:30-9pm - PMBA Deluxe Live's "Intimate Live" series ft Russell deCarle w/ Steve Briggs ($50, includes pizza and show, available via e-transfer to )
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
(705) 741-1078
Saturday, February 8
8pm - High Waters Band
Rolling Grape Vineyard
260 County Rd 2, Bailieboro
705-991-5876
Sunday, February 23
3-6pm - Brad Renaud
Royal Crown Pub & Grill
4 King St. E., Colborne
905-355-1900
Saturday, February 22
8pm - Michael Tremblay (no cover)
Springville Tap n' Grill
2714 Brown Line, Peterborough
(705) 876-9994
Saturday, February 22
7pm - Karaoke
Sticks Sports Pub
500 George St. S., Peterborough
(705) 775-7845
Saturday, February 22
3-6pm - Maxwell McWilliams w/ Jack Freeman on piano (no cover)
Tap & Tonic Pub & Bistro
18-22 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 947-2333
Thursday, February 20
7-10pm - Justin Cooper
The Thirsty Goose
63 Walton St., Port Hope
Friday, February 21
8pm-12am - Brian Bracken
Saturday, February 22
8pm-12am - Harry Hannah
The Venue
286 George Street North, Peterborough
(705) 876-0008
On January 30, 2025, the City of Peterborough announced it had hired Darryl Julott as the city's new director of economic development. Julott will lead the city's new new economic development division. (Supplied photo)
In November of last year, when the City of Peterborough invited applications for the position of the city’s new economic development director, Mayor Jeff Leal characterized the pending hiring as one of the most important the municipality will ever make.
That there were a whole lot of people watching what would transpire was a given. Earlier in the year, city councillors endorsed a staff recommendation to end its longstanding funding of Peterborough and Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED), bringing to an abrupt end that agency’s 25-year provision of economic development and tourism services on behalf of both the city and county.
Those employed at PKED lost their jobs as business leaders and stakeholders questioned the move, all while fretting over what direction things would go as the city prepared to take on economic development in-house, creating the need for a new division and its associated director position.
In late January, clarity was provided when the city announced that Darryl Julott had been hired as Peterborough’s economic development director.
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In his first local media interview since starting his new job last Monday (February 10), Julott tells kawarthaNOW that he’s aware of the public scrutiny that preceded his hiring, and the prospect that the jury will be out for some time yet as he settles into his new role.
That said, if he’s feeling any pressure above and beyond that typically associated with starting a new job in a new place, he’s not letting it get in the way of his getting off to a good start.
“Challenge is just another word for opportunity,” says Julott, downplaying any added pressure he may feel.
“The challenges we’re going to face, from a transitional standpoint and also moving economic development forward, are opportunities. That’s how I’m focused on things and how everything is going to be positioned.”
“A big part of my work for the first six days, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, is to make sure I’m out in the community — I’m meeting with people. Whether that’s a regular person, a business leader, a community stakeholder, a volunteer … making sure they feel that they’re supported, they have the ability to connect with the team, and they have the ability to share their thoughts and opinions.”
“Any transition presents its challenges, but our goal is to get to here, and here are the things we’re going to do get here. Our goal is to make sure they’re communicated with; to make sure we’re sharing what we’re working on and that people have an idea of what’s going on. That will be a big part of the plan over the next 30 days — really looking at our communication strategy around economic development.”
Darryl Julott (back right), the City of Peterborough’s new economic development director, introduces himself to city council at the general committee meeting on February 18, 2025. (kawarthaNOW screenshot of City of Peterborough video)
Julott arrives in Peterborough from Clarington, where he served as an economic development officer for three months. Prior to that, he worked for 12 years as a senior manager with Toronto-based Digital Main Street, a federally and provincially funded service and program that helps “main street” businesses achieve digital transformation.
Julott says experience gained in both roles has well prepared him for his new tasks.
“I was very fortunate and blessed to work with almost every single municipal economic development department across Ontario,” he notes. “Not only was I able to deliver Digital Main Street program, but I was able to deliver projects in collaboration with the City of Toronto around business retention and expansion and site selection. I learned a lot from a lot of people.”
“This is the first time economic development has been in-house for the City of Peterborough in quite a while. I think my kind of non-traditional exposure to the economic development world has prepared me quite well for this.”
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Putting his name forth for his new position, says Julott, was based on his belief that there is a unique opportunity in Peterborough “to reimagine the future of the city, and how we take that from an economic development standpoint … how we bring expertise in-house and continue to drive that forward.”
“It’s a city with a ton of passion. For the people that live here, that are from here, and even for the people that have moved away who are from here, it’s a place that’s home. Having grown up in a suburb of Scarborough, where people were equally as passionate, that resonates with me.
“And from a professional standpoint, the chance to really dive in and help shape the future of the city, and collaborate with other city departments, and with the county, the Chamber, the DBIA, Community Futures and others — that has me excited to dive in and just get going.”
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While at it for just a short time, Julott has already formed some thoughts on priorities as seen through an economic development lens. He says securing serviceable employment land — long a huge challenge — is “absolutely a priority for the whole municipality.”
“We’re committed to making sure we have the appropriate amount of employment land. That includes looking at the land the OP (Official Plan) indicates within our boundaries. It includes being open to cross-border servicing discussions (with Peterborough County). We’re turning over every possible stone to make sure we’re looking at every opportunity. Top to bottom, the city is committed to this issue. It’s something we’re going to drive forward.”
“What I’m focused on right now is meeting with as many businesses, stakeholders, and community leaders as possible, ensuring a diverse perspective and opinion base is well represented, with the overarching goal of the design and launch of a full-fledged economic development strategy.”
“Also ensuring that we have just as much of a focus on investment attraction, tied to that (employment) land question, as we do on business retention. How are we supporting existing businesses, and ensuring they not only stay but they’re growing and thriving?”
“I call this day six-and-a-half, so we’re still getting into the weeds but, at a high level, that’s generally where the focus is right now.”
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Julott adds there is “the elephant in the room” looming over all this: “This kind of taboo word that starts with a T — tariffs.” How their potential imposition plays out could potentially throw a wrench in the works.
While that creates some uncertainty, Julott points to one factor that Peterborough and the surrounding region has always had on its positive side of the ledger. For all its challenges, this remains a desirable place to live and work for those looking for a change in lifestyle and pace.
“It was what, an hour-and-a-half ago, that the prime minister announced the high-speed train is going to stop in Peterborough. There’s a reason the train will stop in Peterborough. I think that signifies to players that Peterborough is a place that they should consider investing in, consider growing their business in, and consider living in.”
Community members at the Peterborough Public Library for the 2024 International Women's Day community event organized by the Kawartha World Issues Centre and the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre. This year's free community event takes place from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the library, following a rally and march that begins at 11:30 a.m. at Peterborough City Hall. The community event will include speakers, panellists, resources, performances, a kids' corner, and more. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha World Issues Centre)
The Kawartha World Issues Centre (KWIC) and the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) are partnering once again to host an accessible and free International Women’s Day event in Nogojiwanong/Peterborough.
As in years past, the organizations are organizing two inclusive events on Saturday, March 8, beginning with a rally and march in downtown Peterborough at 11:30 a.m. followed by a community event at the Peterborough Public Library from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. that will feature speakers, panellists, activities, learning opportunities, and lots of connection.
“As organizations that work within gender equity, we want to bring that action to the forefront and get people thinking about and participating in creating change within the community and beyond,” says Sarah Forrest, KWIC program and outreach coordinator.
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While the genesis of International Women’s Day dates back to at least the early 1900s, the United Nations first began commemorating it in 1975 with the UN General Assembly officially formalizing the day in 1977. Celebrated around the world, the day is intended to honour the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while also advocating for gender equality.
That goal is even more prominent with this year’s International Women’s Day theme of “Accelerate Action,” which emphasizes the need to take swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality by addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres. According to data from the World Economic Forum, at the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158 — 133 years from now — to achieve full gender parity.
Jocelyn Enright, prevention education and community engagement coordinator at the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, says the local event will be both a celebration and a call to action.
“We want to celebrate a lot of local folks who are doing a lot of great work supporting women and supporting gender equality, while also recognizing that there’s so much work to be done,” Enright explains. “It’s about having a mission around what we’re going to do to change that.”
The artwork for this year’s International Women’s Day celebration was created by Nuin-Tara Wilson (Star Daughter Woman), a Cree artist in Nogojiwanong. (Poster courtesy of Kawartha World Issues Centre)
Enright adds that she was excited about the theme given that accelerating action has always been the goal of their annual International Women’s Day events.
“With this event, we’re not just bringing people together to hang out for a bit and then saying ‘see you next year’. We’re trying to give people tools and things that they can do to make changes,” she says, noting the community event will include new voices, art projects, petitions, and other resources that will spread knowledge.
“We’re trying to provide participants with actual actions that they can take, because we’re past the point of just talking about the fact that there’s still so many issues to equality. We want to get to the point where people have the tools so that they can actually work towards making change.”
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The day will begin at 11:30 a.m. at Peterborough City Hall at 500 George Street North with an International Women’s Day declaration to be read by Mayor Jeff Leal. Other special guests who will be performing include Peterborough’s most recent poet laureate Ziysah von Bieberstein, the Raging Grannies, Janet McCue, and Mshkiki Gitigaan Kwe (Kate Brennan), among others.
Participants are encouraged to come with homemade signs and their voices ready to chant.
“It will be just so exciting to see so many people outside City Hall,” Enright says. “It’s a great way for people to feel together, especially for folks that maybe don’t feel like they have a chance to voice their concerns.”
The New Canadians Centre was one of many community organizations that came out to show their support for the 2024 International Women’s Day rally at Peterborough City Hall. Nogojiwanong/Peterborough organized by the Kawartha World Issues Centre and the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre. For the 2025 event, which takes place on Saturday, March 8 with a rally and march at city hall followed by a community event at the Peterborough Public Library, groups are encouraged to come together under the theme of “Accelerate Action” for gender equality. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha World Issues Centre)
Participants will then march to the Peterborough Public Library at 345 Aylmer Street North, where a community event will take place in The Friends of the Library Community Room. Starting at 1:30 p.m., the afternoon will kick off with music from singer-songwriter Missy Knott and an opening prayer from Elder Alice Olsen Williams, both from Curve Lake First Nation.
The event will also include a kids’ corner with activities, as well as refreshments, and displays from local organizations. Musician Jill Staveley will moderate a panel with participation from local experts of varying backgrounds and perspectives, including Laura Bodin, Tashvi Menghi, and Fabiola Contreras Carrasco.
The afternoon will wrap up at 4:30 p.m. with a closing poem by Sarah Lewis, a spoken word artist from Curve Lake First Nation who was Peterborough’s inaugural poet laureate.
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Enright says the International Women’s Day celebration is an inclusive event, welcoming everyone who is interested in taking action to move towards gender equality.
“We’re connecting with people who are women-identifying or non-binary,” she says. “There are a lot of people in the community who do this work, but we’re really trying to get to people who don’t always get the opportunity to talk on a larger scale.”
“We’ve also been really trying to get more youth involvement, because it’s super important to bring in this new generation of folks who are going to be continuing to do this work.”
Organizers and speakers at the Peterborough Public Library for the 2024 International Women’s Day community event organized by the Kawartha World Issues Centre and the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre. This year’s free community event takes place from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the library, following a rally and march that begins at 11:30 a.m. at Peterborough City Hall. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha World Issues Centre)
Last year’s International Women’s Day rally and march saw more than 150 people participating, and both Forrest and Enright agree the number continues to grow each year.
“I hope people leave feeling like they’ve gotten to know members of the community better,” says Enright. “I really hope people leave with some ideas on how they can start making even small changes or actions in their own life and how we can accelerate action towards gender equality.”
kawarthaNOW is proud to be a media sponsor of the Kawartha World Issues Centre and Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre International Women’s Day celebration.
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