Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for the Kawarthas region for Monday (February 3).
The winter weather travel advisory is in effect for Peterborough County, Kawartha Lakes, and Haliburton County.
Snow will begin Monday morning and continue through the afternoon, with total snowfall accumulations of 5 to 10 cm expected.
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There is also a risk of freezing drizzle in the morning before the snow begins.
Expected reduced visibility in heavy snow. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow.
Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas.
June and Nathan Govier perform a scene from Trent Valley Archives Theatre's "Crossing Over," a fictionalized account of some of the settlers aboard the John Barry, the last of the nine Robinson settler transport ships that ultimately brought over 2,000 Irish settlers to the region. During the John Barry's perilous six-week journey across the Atlantic in 1825, passengers and crew experienced storms, seasickness, scarlet fever, family feuds, petty larceny, plots and counterplots, rotting potatoes, mutiny, and the lash. (Photo courtesy of Trent Valley Archives Theatre)
Trent Valley Archives Theatre (TVAT) is gearing up for the spring premiere of Crossing Over, a historical play commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Irish immigration to the Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes area in 1825.
The non-profit theatre company will be holding auditions in February and is also seeking additional sponsors and public donations to support the production, which runs for four performances from May 29 to 31 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. People are also encouraged to purchase tickets for the play, which are available now.
Written by Ed Schroeter and Gerry McBride, Crossing Over is a sequel to TVAT’s inaugural production last year, the sold-out Tide of Hope. The play is a fictionalized account of some of the settlers aboard the John Barry, the last of the nine Robinson settler transport ships that ultimately brought over 2,000 Irish settlers to the region.
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Crossing Over will be performed at 7:30 p.m. from May 29 to 31, with an additional 2 p.m. matinee performance on May 31. Tickets are $40 for assigned cabaret table seating or $30 for regular assigned seating and can be purchased by phoning the Market Hall at 705-749-1146, emailing boxoffice@markethall.com, or visiting markethall.org.
Proceeds from ticket sales will support the Trent Valley Archives (TVA), a non-profit charitable organization that houses an extensive and growing collection of local historical resources and makes them available to the public. The organization also encourages local and family history research, operates a facility, and raises awareness of local history through historical tours, events, publications, and presentations.
In December, TVAT announced that Peterborough resident Drew Mills — who performed as David in Tide of Hope — would be directing the play. An actor who has previously performed with the Anne Shirley Theatre Company, Cordwainer Productions, and St. James Players, Drew co-directed the St. James Players production of Shrek: The Musical in 2018, and was also involved in producing or directing their prior five spring shows.
Drew Mills is the director of Trent Valley Archives Theatre’s “Crossing Over,” with his mother Barbara the stage manager. Auditions for 16 volunteer actors to be cast in the production will be held on February 25 and 26, 2025 in the hall at at Right to Heal Peterborough. (Photos courtesy of Trent Valley Archives Theatre)
Crossing Over represents a comeback for Drew, who took a seven-year hiatus from directing after suffering four acquired brain injuries in 2018.
Making it a family affair, TVAT announced in January that Drew’s mother Barbara would be stage managing the play. She first became involved in Peterborough theatre 10 years ago when her son asked her for help backstage when he was directing Princess Whatsername for St. James Players. Since then, Barbara has stage managed several productions including Beauty and the Beast, All Shook Up, Evil Dead the Musical, and Twelve Angry Jurors.
Drew will be casting the roles for Crossing Over when TVAT holds auditions on February 25 and 26. There are a total of 16 roles in the play, including seven lead roles, three supporting roles, and six background roles. Volunteer actors of all ages and all levels of experience are encouraged to audition.
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The cast for the sequel is double the size of Tide of Hope because, according to Schroeter, Drew had the “brilliant idea to add background actors dressed as settlers and ship’s crew to recreate the experience of travelling on a sailing ship for the audience.” The background performers will have non-speaking roles and double as stage hands or singers.
“I really hope we get some settler descendants auditioning for the background actors at least,” adds Schroeter, referring to local residents whose ancestors were part of the Peter Robinson Irish immigration.
The auditions will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on February 25 and 26 in the hall at Right to Heal Peterborough, which is located at 441 Rubidge Street in Peterborough. According to Mills, volunteers do not need to do any advance preparation for the auditions — they just need to show up ready to read.
For those cast in the production, rehearsals will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday nights from April 15 to May 21 at the Right to Heal hall, and from May 26 to 28 at the Market Hall.
Trent Valley Archives board president Madison More and vice president Harry Huffman delivering posters for Trent Valley Archives Theatre’s “Crossing Over” to Sarah Joore, sales and marketing coordinator of The Gardens of Peterborough Retirement Residences, a platinum sponsor for the play along with kawarthaNOW. (Photo courtesy of Trent Valley Archives Theatre)
Meanwhile, TVAT is looking for additional sponsors for the play. Having sponsored Tide of Hope in 2024, both The Gardens of Peterborough Retirement Residences and kawarthaNOW are both returning as platinum sponsors of Crossing Over, with the Peterborough Canadian Irish Club providing community partner support.
“We are grateful to our returning sponsors and donors,” say TVAT co-producers Greg and Mary Conchelos in a media release. “TVA receives no consistent funding from any level of government and relies on income generated from donations, memberships, local history tours, fireside chats, and Trent Valley Archives Theatre productions to keep the not-for-profit organization thriving.”
Although Crossing Over has a volunteer cast and crew, there are additional upfront costs in mounting the production that will reduce the amount of money that can be raised through ticket sales, unless they can be offset through sponsorships and donations.
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Sponsorships are available at the platinum, gold, silver, or bronze level, with sponsors recognized in promotional materials and the playbill. For more information on sponsorships and benefits, read the sponsorship flyer at bit.ly/TVASponsorships.
The public can also donate to the production, with donations of $20 or more receiving a charitable tax receipt. Donors will also have the option of being recognized in the playbill, on the TVA website, and in a special TVA e-newsletter.
Peterborough County held a successful first session of its new economic development program "The Local Advantage" at the Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre on January 21, 2025.
The next session will be held at the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre on February 12. (Photos: Peterborough County / Facebook)
Peterborough County is gearing up for another session to support the region’s business community, with the expansion of “The Local Advantage” economic development initiative to Cavan Monaghan Township.
The county said after a successful launch in Asphodel-Norwood Township on January 21, it will host the second in-person session on Wednesday, February 12 from 8:30 a.m. to noon in the meeting room of the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre, located at 986 County Rd. 10 in Millbrook.
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“This series isn’t just another program; it’s a response to what businesses in Peterborough County have been asking for,” the county noted in a media release. “Since bringing economic development and tourism in-house, Peterborough County has been listening. We’ve heard the challenges. We’ve seen the opportunities. And we’re stepping up to provide real, accessible resources that local businesses need to thrive.”
From funding opportunities to one-on-one business consultations, The Local Advantage series is designed to bring experts into the heart of the community. At the February 12 session, businesses can connect with Peterborough County’s economic development and tourism teams, Cavan Monaghan’s economic development team, and Community Futures Peterborough.
The offering aims to help business owners access the insights, support, and partnerships that can help fuel their next phase of growth. Attendees can meet with specialists, explore the full range of business resources, and discuss specific goals.
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“The biggest hope is that Peterborough County businesses feel supported and know they have access to a team that wants to see them succeed,” Rhonda Keenan, Peterborough County’s general manager of economic development, recently told kawarthaNOW.
“If they have a question, are excited about an opportunity, or are facing a challenge that is impacting their business, they have a team that they can reach out to. The county wants local businesses to know what resources are available to them, and how these products and services can benefit them.”
Those who wish to attend the February 12 session, which is presented in an open-house format, can simply drop in during the morning. There is no need to register for the event.
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Cavan Monaghan Mayor Matthew Graham said the county’s initiative is a welcome one.
“As our local community continues to grow and the economy changes, it is imperative that our business community have the resources they need to respond to the changing environment,” Graham said in a statement.
As part of Peterborough County’s broader “hub and spoke” model, the Cavan Monaghan sessions are “a vital spoke in the wheel,” complementing the county’s central hub, the release noted. The interconnected approach is designed with the goal of ensuring that businesses in all parts of the county receive the same high-quality support, regardless of location.
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“Our Peterborough County Economic Development team is dedicated to connecting business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, connections, and resources they need to succeed,” said Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark. “We look forward to expanding this monthly Local Advantage series and offering additional business services through our hub and spoke model across Peterborough County.”
The Local Advantage in Cavan Monaghan Township will continue every second Wednesday of the month in the meeting room at the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre.
Tracy Minnema checks out the inventory at her Keene business A River of Yarn, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2025. Located at 353 Kents Bay Road on the Otonabee River, the destination yarn shop and studio offers high-quality and affordable yarn, including top brands like Schoppel Zauberperlen and Fibra Natura, and also hosts regular workshops. (Photo courtesy of A River of Yarn)
A River of Yarn in Keene is celebrating 10 years as a destination yarn studio by offering discounts and savings on high-quality items.
Though she opened A River of Yarn 10 years ago, owner Tracy Minnema has been a fibre artist since she began crocheting at five years old and knitting at nine years old. Her lifelong passion led the Peterborough native to study Fashion Merchandising at Fleming College, working in Toronto for a few years, then returning to Queen’s University to obtain her teaching qualification in Technical Education. Tracy spent 30 years teaching Family Studies, clothing, and fashion at the secondary school level, and eventually opened her yarn studio.
Located at 353 Kents Bay Road and reflected in its descriptive name, A River of Yarn backs onto the Otonabee River, making it accessible by both foot and by watercraft while offering a serene garden space for visitors to work on their projects with a view. For those unable to make it to the studio in person, A River of Yarn offers an online store with shipping across Canada and the U.S. and free delivery to Peterborough.
At A River of Yarn, fibre enthusiasts will find luxury yarns at competitive and affordable prices that you can’t find anywhere else, including wools, silks, linens, cottons, and more. Alongside high-quality yarn brands like Schoppel, Fibra Natura, and Sueño yarns by HiKoo, A River of Yarn supplies Addi needles and hooks, books, leaflets and digital patterns, as well as project bags hand-sewn by Minnema herself.
A River of Yarn owner Tracy Minnema has been a fibre artist since she began crocheting at five years old and knitting at nine years old. Prior to opening her destination yarn shop and studio in Keene 10 years ago, she studied Fashion Merchandising at Fleming College, later obtaining her teaching qualification in Technical Education at Queen’s University, and then teaching Family Studies, clothing, and fashion at the secondary school level. (Photo courtesy of A River of Yarn)
In the spacious studio space, which is complete with a small kitchen area for snacks and coffee, Minnema combines her passion for yarn with her experience as an educator by offering a place for local crafters to learn about fibre arts. Every Thursday evening, the studio turns into a social drop-in where guests can connect with other knitters and crocheters while working on their own individual projects.
On Saturday mornings, Minnema also hosts regular learn to knit and learn to crochet classes as well as other workshops, which are often held outdoors in the summer. She can also be booked to host workshops for knitting or crochet guilds and groups.
In honour of A River of Yarn’s 10-year anniversary, Minnema will be celebrating throughout the month of April with numerous sales, yarn tasting events, trunk shows, and scheduled classes. The month of festivities will end with a tent sale on Local Yarn Store Day, held on Saturday, April 26 this year.
A River of Yarn is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m., and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hours may vary, so check the website at ariverofyarn.ca/pages/calendar-of-classes, where you can also keep up to date on class offerings.
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.
New Stages Theatre's Brand New Stages Festival, running from February 25 to March 2, features four plays at the Market Hall (left to right, top and bottom): "Fireside Munsch" adapted and performed by M. John Kennedy, "Magic Lies: An Evening with W.O. Mitchell" by Orm and Barbara Mitchell performed by Martin Julien, "Suddenly 50" written and performed by Nicolle Nattrass, and "Clown Fish" written and performed by Paul Tedeschini. The festival also features four theatre-related training workshops and five late-night events at the Theatre On King. (kawarthaNOW collage of supplied photos)
New Stages Theatre has announced the details of its second annual Brand New Stages Festival, taking place in downtown Peterborough at the end of February, with tickets now on sale.
The week-long festival, which showcases new, emerging, and re-emerging theatre shows and artists, comes a year after the successful inaugural festival.
“Last year’s festival was such a success with the community, with three sold-out plays in six days, that we’ve leaned into it with even more programming and festival events for this year,” says Mark Wallace, artistic director of New Stages, who has enlisted the help of Kate Suhr as festival producer.
Taking place from February 25 to March 2, the festival features four plays at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, four theatre-related training workshops at The Theatre On King, and five late-night events at The Theatre On King, including a unique jazz and visual art performance, a panel discussion on solo performance, a storytelling open stage, a concert, and a staged reading.
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“The focus remains on making the festival affordable and accessible to a range of ages and interests, with tickets ranging from pay what you can to a maximum cost of $22 plus venue fees,” Wallace notes.
In addition, a festival pass for all four of the plays at Market Hall is available for $80 (inclusive of venue fees), and individual tickets for each play are discounted by 50 per cent for arts workers, students, children, and the underwaged.
More information about the festival is available at www.newstages.ca, with tickets and passes for the Market Hall shows available at markethall.org and registration and tickets for the workshops and late-night events at The Theatre On King available at ttok.ca.
Below is the complete lineup by date for the 2025 Brand New Stages Festival.
Tuesday, February 25
“Expressive Body” with Dreda Blow
4 – 6 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
Dance-theatre artist Dreda Blow will explore the expressive capacity of our bodies through dance improvisation techniques, games, and creative play. Absolutely no dance experience is necessary. This workshop is fun, gentle, and adaptable to all physical abilities. Space is limited. Participants must be 14+. The cost is $25 ($20 for New Stages subscribers, students, arts workers, under-employed).
“Fireside Munsch”
7 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
Experience a theatrical re-telling of classic Robert Munsch stories like “Paperbag Princess” and “Mortimer”, adapted and performed by M. John Kennedy and directed by Dahlia Katz. “Fireside Munsch” is a high-energy, high-quality one-person show that has been performed all over the province and was nominated for eight Dora Mavor Moore Awards in Toronto. Tickets are $22 plus fee ($11 plus fee for arts workers, students, children, and the underwaged), with a $80 festival pass available for all four plays at the Market Hall.
VIDEO: “Fireside Munsch” trailer
“Brushstrokes & Jazz” with Rob Phillips, Carling Stephen, and a mystery artist
9 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
“Brushstrokes & Jazz” is an unforgettable evening where the worlds of live music and visual art beautifully converge. As Rob Phillips and Carling Stephen fill the room with soulful jazz melodies and captivating rhythms, an acclaimed painter (to be announced) creates a masterpiece right before your eyes, inspired by the music. A unique way to witness two art forms influencing each other and evolving together. Space is limited. Cost is pay what you can ($15 to $20 suggested).
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Wednesday, February 26
“Creating a Solo Show”
8 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
Have you wondered about creating a one-person show of your own? What are the challenges and joys of making your own solo show? As an audience, what do you enjoy, or maybe not enjoy about them? This panel discussion features experienced playwrights and creators from the Brand New Stages Festival and beyond, talking about their craft. Come with questions, leave with a wealth of insights. Space is limited. The cost is pay what you can ($10 suggested).
Thursday, February 27
“Take 5! Wellbeing for Theatre Artists” with Nicolle Nattrass
4 – 6 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
Led by Suddenly 50 writer and performer Nicolle Nattrass, this workshop is designed to address the unique challenges faced by theatre artists (including production and administration). It will provide a safe space for participants to look at their own challenges and stressors in the broader environment, as well as exploring five different tools to enhance and maintain mental well-being. This workshop fosters community and strengthens support systems for all. Space is limited. Participants must be 14+. The cost is $25 ($20 for New Stages subscribers, students, arts workers, under-employed).
“Magic Lies: An Evening with W.O. Mitchell”
7 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
A fond remembrance by Orm and Barbara Mitchell of the life and work of beloved Canadian writer W.O. Mitchell, Orm’s father. A delightful and enriching staged reading full of tall tales, Canadiana, and lots of humour and wit, performed by Martin Julien and directed by Mark Wallace with musical accompaniment by Rob Phillips. Recommended ages: 12+. Tickets are $22 plus fee ($11 plus fee for arts workers, students, children, and the underwaged), with a $80 festival pass available for all four plays at the Market Hall.
Barbara and Orm Mitchell wrote “Magic Lies: An Evening with W.O. Mitchell” in memory of Orm’s father, the iconic Canadian writer best known for his 1947 novel “Who Has Seen the Wind” that portrays life on the Canadian Prairies in the 1930s from the point of view of a small boy. (Supplied photo)
“StorySLAM” hosted by Megan Murphy and Mandy Roveda
9 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
Your chance to share a true, personal story that connects, inspires, makes us laugh, or moves us forward, StorySLAM is an open invitation for anyone who has a story to tell, and for anyone who just wants to enjoy an evening of communal storytelling. Each storyteller will have five minutes to share a personal story based on the theme “Breaking the Rules”. Stories must be true and from your own experience. No notes or props allowed. Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or have never spoken on stage before, all are welcome to participate. Space is limited. The cost is pay what you can ($10 suggested).
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Friday, February 28
“Auditioning for Theatre Schools” with M. John Kennedy
4 – 6 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
Are you considering going to a college or university to study acting? Do you have to audition to get in? Do you know what they are looking for? This workshop is for anyone getting ready for a theatre school audition, or anyone wanting to work on their auditioning and acting skills. Learn practical skills and what questions to ask that will make your acting more believable and interesting. It is recommended that you prepare a memorized monologue to work on (ideally from a full-length contemporary play that you have read), but if you don’t have one prepared, don’t let that stop you from attending to learn more about the auditioning process. Space is limited. Participants must be 14+. The cost is $25 ($20 for New Stages subscribers, students, arts workers, under-employed).
“Suddenly 50” by Nicolle Nattrass
7 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
“Suddenly 50” is a funny and authentic staged reading about Nicolle, a BC woman who is grappling with a mid-life crisis as she enters “season 50” of her incredible life, written and performed by Nicolle Nattrass and directed by T.J. Dawe. Part of the Brand New Stages festival. Recommended ages: 14+. Tickets are $22 plus fee ($11 plus fee for arts workers, students, children, and the underwaged), with a $80 festival pass available for all four plays at the Market Hall.
Nicolle Nattrass is BC-based actor, director, playwright, and dramaturg who has written 11 plays, including three solo shows of which “Suddenly 50” is her latest. (Supplied photo)
“A Soulful Night” with Beau Dixon
9 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
Singer-songwriter, musician, and actor Beau Dixon takes the stage for an intimate, soulful concert performance. He will weave stories through music, blending blues, soul, and heartfelt ballads. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, this night promises to be a celebration of life, love, and the power of music to connect us all. Space is limited. The cost is pay what you can ($15 to $20 suggested).
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Saturday, March 1
“Clown Fish” by Paul Tedeschini
7 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
In this immersive theatre experience that transports you to another world, BC-based writer, clown, and sound designer Paul Tedeschini takes the insular and isolating experience of grief and anxiety and transforms it into a love story. Written and performed by Tedeschini and directed by T.J. Dawe. Recommended ages: 14+. Tickets are $22 plus fee ($11 plus fee for arts workers, students, children, and the underwaged), with a $80 festival pass available for all four plays at the Market Hall.
VIDEO: “Clown Fish” trailer
“Venus in Fur” by David Ives
9 p.m. at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
A staged reading of the acclaimed contemporary play, directed by Dahlia Katz and featuring Erynn Brook and M. John Kennedy. Playwright-director Thomas auditions enigmatic actress Vanda for the lead role in his adaptation of “Venus in Furs”, a novel about power and sadomasochism. As the audition unfolds, Vanda proves to be unexpectedly perfect for the role, blurring the lines between performance and reality while reversing the power dynamic between her and Thomas. The play becomes a tense battle of gender, dominance, and submission, culminating in an ambiguous and electrifying conclusion. Content advisory: 18+ for sexual content, coarse language, mild violence. Space is limited. Tickets are $22 ($11 for arts workers, students, and the underemployed).
Sunday, March 2
“Intro to Mask Play” with Mark Wallace
10 a.m. – noon at The Theatre On King (171 King St., Peterborough)
When you put on a theatrical mask, it can transform you by unlocking physicality and emotion that you might keep hidden away. In this intro to mask play, participants will learn about how, when, and why different kinds of masks are used in theatrical performance and training. You will have the chance to experience mask play and the physical and vocal work needed to make masks come to life. The objective is for you to push your boundaries as a performer, to transform your everyday self, to play freely, to laugh and to learn. Space is limited. No experience necessary. Participants must be 14+. The cost is $25 ($20 for New Stages subscribers, students, arts workers, under-employed).
kawarthaNOW is proud to be media sponsor of New Stages Theatre Company’s 2024-25 season.
Peterborough author, writing coach, and founder of Open Sky Stories, Erica Richmond leads a presentation all about the power of writing and sharing stories for students at Keith Wightman Public School in Peterborough. The author of the Pixie series and the co-author of the Mail Art Stories Project, Richmond is available to be booked as a speaker for a variety of engagements and audiences. In a tailored approach, she uses interactive presentations, readings from her books, and her own experiences to encourage people to approach writing from a place of safety rather than a place of fear. (Photo courtesy of Erica Richmond)
You can inspire your class, workplace, or community group to unlock their creative potential with the help of Erica Richmond. The Peterborough author, instructor, and writing coach is available to be booked for tailored speaking engagements focused on the power of stories.
Through her community Open Sky Stories, Richmond guides writers on their creative journeys through workshops, coaching, writing groups, and story sharing.
The author of the popular Pixie series (Pixie and the Bees and Pixie and the Fox), which follows a lovable character navigating complex and challenges feelings, Richmond is also the co-author of the Mail Art Stories Project and is currently working on a project of creative nonfiction called Yelling at Dead People.
Richmond’s speaking engagements do not focus on how to write a story, but rather why we write stories and the power that can be found in both writing and sharing them. She encourages her audience to do so by approaching it from a place of safety, rather than a place of fear. She shares her strategies for defeating imposter syndrome, knowing the importance of a rough first draft, overcoming writer’s block, ignoring the anxiety of sharing work, and believing that words matter.
“It doesn’t matter what that story is, we have to write from a place of safety to be confident putting pen to paper,” she says.
Richmond has presented for both children and adults in schools and libraries, at writing conferences, for women’s empowerment facilitation sessions, online, and for vulnerable populations. Tailoring her presentations to meet the needs of the group, she uses interactive components, including book readings, breakout groups, and writing prompts.
Peterborough author and Open Sky Stories founder Erica Richmond has opened registration for her upcoming “Progress in Writing” three-month online writing group for an investment of $350. Open to writers of all skill levels, the group will meet twice monthly for connection with an intimate group of like-minded creatives, structured and interactive learning, insight from peers, and accountability in writing. The group begins on February 13, 2025. (Photo: Jordan Lyall Photography)
No matter the event, she will share anecdotes and her own personal experiences in writing about her mental health in the Pixie series, and in writing about grief for her current work-in-progress, to show how she herself has found safety in putting pen to paper.
“Sharing my experience opens up conversations, because that’s what stories do,” she says.
Richmond is also accepting registration for her Writers in Progress three-month writing group, which kicks off Thursday, February 13th, for an investment of $350. Open to both beginners and experienced writers, the intimate group will meet twice per month for structured and interactive learning, discussions, feedback on work, and accountability.
Though she will be leading the sessions, Richmond will also be working on her own project alongside the participants.
“It’s a place to share this love and desire to write, which is huge because we often think we’re alone in anything creative,” she says.
For more information about Open Sky Stories and to keep up to date on events, visit openskystories.com. Follow Open Sky Stories on Instagram and Facebook.
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.
Some of the bowls available at YWCA Peterborough Haliburton's "Empty Bowls" fundraiser in 2024. The 21st annual event, where attendees can select a bowl handcrafted by local artisans and enjoy lunch, returns to The Venue in downtown Peterborough on February 21, 2025, with proceeds support One City Peterborough and Kawartha Food Share. (Photo: YWCA Peterborough Haliburton)
The soup’s on to fight food insecurity in Peterborough.
YWCA Peterborough Haliburton has announced the launch of its 21st annual “Empty Bowls” fundraiser, which takes place on Friday, February 21 at The Venue at 86 George St. N. in downtown Peterborough.
The lunch-time event aims to raise money and boost awareness about food insecurity in the community.
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“This event is so important for the growing number of people in our community who struggle to meet basic nutritional needs,” Tina Thornton, director of philanthropy for YWCA Peterborough Haliburton, told kawarthaNOW.
“With rising costs of food and shelter, we know there is work to do at all levels of government to address the issues. The generosity of participants will help fill current gaps and empty bellies. Community-based food action programs develop relationships based on dignity while increasing access to nutritious food and referrals to other community initiatives.”
Empty Bowls will once again feature a variety of local participating restaurants providing a selection of food options. The ticket price includes one lunch meal to enjoy on-site and a one-of-a-kind ceramic bowl, hand-crafted and donated by local artisans.
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Proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will support two non-profit organizations dedicated to supporting those experiencing food insecurity: One City Peterborough and Kawartha Food Share.
“We’re so proud to support fellow non-profit organizations like One City and Kawartha Food Share, who are doing incredible work to help keep women and families fed around our community,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA Peterborough Haliburton’s executive director, in a media release.
Doors will open at 11:30 a.m. for “early bird” VIP ticket holders. VIP tickets are $75 each and include the top selection of lunch options and bowls. Doors then open at noon for general admission ticket holders. General admission tickets are $60 a piece.
YWCA Peterborough Haliburton is giving a shout-out to its 2025 Empty Bowls sponsors, including presenting sponsor Cornerstone Family Dentistry, location sponsor The Venue, brolw partner Kawartha Potters Guild, and all participating restaurants.
“We look forward to raising awareness and funding for food action programs, showcasing the beautiful bowls created and donated by members of the Kawartha Potters Guild, highlighting some amazing local restaurants, and connecting with friends, new and old, who are part of Peterborough’s strongly beating social justice heart,” Thornton said.
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Empty Bowls is a grassroots movement by artists and crafts people in cities around the world to care for and feed the hungry in their communities. Annual events support food-related charitable organizations, raising millions of dollars to help end hunger and address food insecurity.
Empty Bowls first came to Peterborough in 2003 when Karen Hjort-Jensen, then the YWCA’s director of housing, brought forward the concept and began the partnership with the Kawartha Potters Guild that remains to this day.
YWCA Peterborough Haliburton provides safety, resources, and support to help women and children safely escape violent situations, build upon their existing strength, and move forward in their lives. As a member of YWCA Canada, the local organization is part of a global movement dedicated to ending gender-based violence in all its forms.
Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Peterborough County and Kawartha Lakes overnight on Friday (January 21) into Saturday morning.
A cold front will move from north to south over the region Friday evening. Minimum temperatures near -20°C combined with northerly winds up to 20 kilometres per hour will give wind chill values near -30°C for several hours on Saturday morning.
While temperatures will remain cold on Saturday throughout the day and overnight, wind chill values will begin to improve Saturday afternoon as winds decrease.
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Peterborough Public Health has also issued a frostbite alert for the area.
Extreme cold puts everyone at risk. Watch for cold-related symptoms which include shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness, and colour change in fingers and toes.
Dress warmly in layers that you can remove if you get too warm (the outer layer should be wind resistant) and cover up exposed skin, as frostbite can develop within minutes, especially with wind chill.
Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks to warm up. Remember: if it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside.
Community Futures Peterborough executive director Devon Girard (right) with loans manager Braden Clark and financial administrator and program officer Abby Keenan meeting in the Business Advisory Centre's new advisory suite in the renovated basement level of Venture North in downtown Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough)
Peterborough entrepreneurs and small business owners are being invited to pull up a chair in a new space created by Community Futures Peterborough.
Home of the Business Advisory Centre, Community Futures Peterborough has announced the official launch of an advisory suite located in the renovated basement level of the Venture North building in downtown Peterborough.
According to a media release, the expansion marks the non-profit organization’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, providing enhanced business resources, and creating a vibrant hub for local economic growth.
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“Our goal is more entrepreneurs and business owners feel there is a space they can feel comfortable to ask questions and receive advice that will help them start or grow their business,” Devon Girard, executive director of Community Futures Peterborough, told kawarthaNOW.
“We want people to feel comfortable walking through our door and, when they leave our suite, to feel they received confidence and advice to pursue and achieve their business goals.”
The advisory suite is a fully furnished professional space designed to meet the evolving needs of entrepreneurs in Peterborough city and county, the release states. It features a state-of-the-art meeting room, a 360-degree camera device for integrated meetings and virtual workshops, a collaborative workspace, and a dedicated confidential advisory area.
Community Futures Peterborough executive director Devon Girard (left) with Business Advisory Centre manager Rose Terry (right) and business advisor Lindsey Irwin. The new advisory suite in the renovated basement level of Venture North in downtown Peterborough provides Terry and Irwin with dedicated space to provide business advisory support. (Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough)
“The new advisory suite at the Business Advisory Centre will be more than just a meeting space — it’s a haven for creativity, ingenuity, and problem-solving,” noted Business Advisory Centre manager Rose Terry.
“Here, we are dedicated to walking alongside entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, whether starting, growing, or scaling their businesses. This unique expansion of our offices at Venture North are designed to inspire and motivate. It will act as a resource hub with the support needed to turn visions into reality.”
In 2024, Community Futures Peterborough assumed responsibility for the Business Advisory Centre — which is funded by the Ontario government with operational funding from the city and county of Peterborough — from the now-defunct Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development.
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Since then, the Community Futures office has been “bursting at the seams,” according to the release, driven by increased demand from those interested in business support services as well as the addition of two new staff members and multiple programs.
The organization says the expansion will alleviate space constraints and increase its capacity to support local entrepreneurs. The suite also provides Terry, along with Business Advisory Centre business advisor Lindsey Irwin, with dedicated space to provide business advisory support.
“It enhances our ability to offer one-on-one guidance and creates a dedicated workshop space allowing for increased collaboration among local business owners,” Girard said.
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Community Futures Peterborough says the suite has been designed in a way “to foster connectivity and accessibility, offering an ideal venue for small workshops, meetings, and mentoring sessions.”
“We’ve been inundated with business owners, each with unique ideas, hopes, and dreams for their businesses,” Irwin says. “This space gives them the chance to speak freely and confidentially, fostering genuine conversations and meaningful support.”
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Community Futures Peterborough has been providing financing and business advisory support for entrepreneurs in the city and county of Peterborough since 1985, investing more than $42 million in over 1,300 small businesses that have created or maintained more than 4,300 jobs in the city and county.
After studying ecosystem management at Fleming College, Rebecca Jackson discovered a passion for fishing and an interest in conservation and is now a supply chain lead at Lucky Strike Bait Works in Peterborough. Connections Kawartha, a new program from the Kawartha Manufacturers Association, is breaking down misperceptions around careers in manufacturing by sharing stories about local youth who have found success in an industry that can align with their passions and interests. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Manufacturers Association)
In tenth grade, Macalister Burke was introduced to the world of computer-aided design (CAD) and robotics, and it changed his career trajectory.
Now in his final semester of Grade 12, he has completed a co-op placement at a local start-up, has started studying robotics and 3D modelling, and will continue to compete with the Fenelon Falls Secondary School robotics team.
All this development began with a connection made through Connections Kawartha, a new program from the Kawartha Manufacturers Association (KMA) that matched Burke’s interests with the leadership team at Cormor, a newly established innovative 3D construction printing company based in Peterborough.
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Through Connections Kawartha, KMA is breaking down misperceptions about employment opportunities in manufacturing by showcasing meaningful, viable, and rewarding careers in the industry. With the Instagram account @connections.kawartha as the method of delivery, the program’s goal is to foster connections by spotlighting local stories with insight from industry leaders and the emerging employees working in the sector.
“There’s a good part of the new generation that have no idea what manufacturing supply chain is and have a really wrong perception of it,” says Diane Richard, founder of Diatom Professional Consulting and a resource to the KMA board of directors.
“We started Connections Kawartha to get true insights from the owners and plant managers around who is successful, what capabilities they’re looking for, who gets promoted, and what the career path looks like. Then, we’re sharing stories of youth in the community under 30 years old who all followed a different path (in the industry).”
Grade 12 student Macalister Burke is a member of the Fenelon Falls Secondary School Falcon Automation Team. An introduction to computer-aided design and robotics in Grade 10 led him on a new career path that included a co-op placement at Cormor, a new local 3D construction printing company based in Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Manufacturers Association)
Founded in 1990, KMA is an advocacy group bringing the leaders of individual manufacturing companies in the Kawarthas together to provide networking, create and promote opportunities, and share concerns that lead to policy. Often working to address industry problems, KMA has identified a potential concern about the number of long-time employees currently in the local workforce who will soon be leaving the industry.
“There’s a huge number of (people with) manufacturing expertise that will retire, so there’s that real angst of what are employers going to do as, at the same time, we are not getting the pipeline of new people into these roles at all,” Richard says.
She explains that one of the barriers of attracting young people is a negative perception associated with how the manufacuring industry describes career opportunities. As an example, she points to the language commonly used in industry, highlighting how using terms like “skilled trades” for jobs requiring licensed skills, or those that require post-secondary education such as electronics and welding, implies that other jobs are “unskilled.”
“These are technicians who are very, very highly skilled,” she says. “Years ago, top graduates of university went into manufacturing but, over time, these are not seen as the preeminent jobs in society. I don’t know what happened, but (the jobs) haven’t really changed.”
She adds that young people may not see “general labour” as a desirable career path, despite the fact that an entry-level position in manufacturing is no different, for example, than a software technician who might begin in customer service before ascending the career ladder.
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For his part, Burke explored a number of skill developmental opportunities as a co-op student over the course of a semester. In his Connections Kawartha feature with KMA, he shared that, in working with a start-up like Cormor, he was exposed to many aspects of running the company and worked directly with the team leaders to learn about their roles.
“I have helped create manuals, compiled data on test prints, learned how to develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), and been challenged in areas I have never been challenged in before,” he wrote to KMA, noting he has learned a lot about the industry and himself. “I discovered that I enjoy getting down and dirty and engaging in physical work.”
Richard says that having a range of different opportunities in manufacturing mean students are still able to explore whatever interests them when it comes to post-secondary education, without having to make career decisions in the eleventh grade.
“Take whatever you’re interested in, whatever you want to learn — whether it be business or science or anything else — because the majority of roles in the industry come as completely agnostic to those skill sets,” says Richard. “People get there from all over.”
With the theme “Yes, in my backyard,” the new Connections Kawartha program from the Kawartha Manufacturers Association aims to encourage young people to think about manufacturing supply chain employment opportunities right here in the Kawarthas, such as at Central Smith Creamery in Selwyn. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Manufacturers Association)
One of the other young people featured through Connections Kawartha, Rebecca Jackson is an example of how pursuing a seemingly unrelated career path can still lead to a job in manufacturing.
After studying as an Ecosystem Management Technician at Fleming College, she discovered a passion for fishing and an interest in conservation. When she passed by the Lucky Strike Bait Works building in Peterborough one day, she decided to email the company to ask about job openings.
“I shared my passion for the environment and fishing, and it led to an incredible opportunity,” Jackson shared in her Connections Kawartha feature.
Now a supply chain resource at Lucky Strike Bait Works, she enjoys networking with customers and participating in conservation events — showing how a job in manufacturing can still align with personal passions and interests.
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Jackson Gougeon is another young person who shared his story with Connections Kawartha. Although he was originally interested in pursuing a career as an athletic therapist, he became interested in manufacturing while taking welding and auto shop classes in high school.
That led him to begin working as a labourer at TS Manufacturing in Lindsay, assisting with machine assembly, fabricating components, and helping around the shop. Realizing how much he loved working directly with his hands, he then asked the company for a millwright apprenticeship.
He now enjoys greater responsibilities, including including building machines independently, tackling more complex tasks, and assisting in the installation and startup of equipment sold to customers.
Although Jackson Gougeon was originally interested in pursuing a career as an athletic therapist, he became interested in manufacturing while taking welding and auto shop classes in high school. He began working as a labourer at TS Manufacturing in Lindsay and, realizing how much he enjoyed working with his hands, asked the company for a millwright apprenticeship. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Manufacturers Association)
In addition to spotlighting these stories of young adults finding their way into the manufacturing industry, Connections Kawartha highlights the perspectives of employers, who share what they are looking for from those they hire.
“We screen the manufacturers, so they have to be a highly viable, growing, successful business that predominantly promote from within,” Richard says. “They are good employers, the HR professionals are outstanding, and they have a formal development approach.”
Playing off the NIMBY acronym, the theme of Connections Kawartha is “Yes, in my backyard,” to encourage those entering the workforce to see the opportunities that exist within their own region.
“Yes, I could get a career; yes, there is a college here; yes, there’s a university; yes, there’s all kinds of clubs — and it’s all in my backyard, even if I don’t know it,” says Richard. “We have these initiatives to get people in and working together as one.”
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Richard adds that careers in manufacturing provide transferable skills, which means youth don’t have to stick to one company throughout their career should they want to explore other opportunities.
“When we develop somebody in one company, we’re developing them for the community,” Richard points out.
With the help of Connections Kawartha, students like Burke can see a future for themselves in the manufacturing industry.
“My time with Cormor has made me more excited about the possibility of continuing to work with them this summer,” he shared with KMA. “I look forward to diving deeper into the manufacturing world and getting more experience in both CAD and hands-on aspects of manufacturing at the post-secondary level.”
To learn more about Connections Kawartha, follow @connections.kawartha on Instagram. Those who are interested or have questions are encouraged to send a direct message through Instagram.
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