Past Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation president and CEO Debbie McGarry joins former executive director Jim Coghlan and current president and CEO Lesley Heighway at the Foundation's recent 40th anniversary celebration at the PRHC Learning Centre. (Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation)
The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with the help of 150 donors, PRHC Foundation volunteer and staff representatives, and PRHC employees, during a public event featuring guest speakers, the unveiling of new lifesaving medical equipment, and a cake cutting.
The PRHC Foundation was established in 1979 and works with generous donors to fund the equipment and technology that form the backbone of patient care at PRHC.
From patient stretchers, pain pumps and vital signs monitors, to CT scanners, MRI machines and hi-tech mammography equipment, donor dollars have given physicians the power to diagnose, treat and heal.
In the last decade alone, the PRHC Foundation has raised nearly $50 million, which has helped support the costs of medical equipment, capital projects, patient programs, and staff education. With regional programs for cardiac, vascular and cancer care, PRHC serves up to 600,000 people from across Peterborough County and beyond.
Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation president and CEO, said that their biggest challenge in planning the celebration was how to capture the staggering collective impact made by thousands of donors, volunteers and organizations over the years.
“For 40 years, PRHC Foundation donors have funded the tools and technology our expert professionals use to provide the very best, most compassionate patient care,” Heighway said. “They’ve launched groundbreaking fundraising campaigns, built and equipped a new hospital, and brought lifesaving treatment options to our region for the first time.”
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. No matter how big or small your donation, know that you are the foundation of patient care.”
Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation President & CEO Lesley Heighway thanks donors at the Foundation’s recent 40th anniversary celebration at the PRHC Learning Centre. (Photo: Bianca Nucaro / kawarthaNOW.com)
Heighway was joined by PRHC vice-president Brenda Weir, who shared that PRHC Foundation donors can be found in every positive transformation the hospital has undergone over the past four decades.
“You gave us the facility and technology we needed to provide world-class patient care to more patients closer to home, and to attract the best and brightest healthcare professionals to deliver it,” Weir said. “The scope of your impact is truly overwhelming.”
Long-time PRHC registered nurse and operating room manager Brenda Angione spoke on behalf of the hospital’s more than 2,000 nurses, allied professionals, and staff.
“As a nurse, I have a firsthand appreciation for the impact new equipment has on patient care. Because of your support, PRHC’s operating room has the equipment our physicians and specialists need to perform surgeries that are less traumatic for patients and allow them a better post-op experience.”
A case in point, Angione said, is gallbladder surgery which is now performed with minimally invasive surgery, followed by a shorter hospital stay and recovery, and reduced chance of infection.
PRHC registered nurse and operating room manager Brenda Angione thanks donors on behalf of the hospital’s more than 2,000 nurses, allied professionals, and staff. (Photo: Bianca Nucaro / kawarthaNOW.com)
“Removing the gall bladder happens through tiny incisions and the patient goes home the same day with less post-op pain,” Angione added.
During the two-hour event, guests were treated to an exhibit of some of the hospital’s newest donor-funded equipment.
Registered nurse Sarah Wood displayed a radiant warmer, used to care for vulnerable newborns in critical situations in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The infant radiant warmer is one of seven funded so far through community donations to the PRHC Foundation.
Registered nurse Sarah Wood displays an infant radiant heater warmer, used to care for vulnerable newborns in critical situations in the neonatal intensive care unit. Seven radiant heater warmer have been funded so far through community donations to the PRHC Foundation. (Photo: Bianca Nucaro / kawarthaNOW.com)
As Wood spoke on the positive impact the radiant warmers have on families, she showed its personalized and hi-tech features such as adjustable lighting and temperature, in-bed scale, rotating mattress, and easy access to the tiniest patients for staff and parents.
Jeff Dunlop, clinical practice lead at the Cardiac Catheterization Lab, offered an update on the new contrast dye injectors used in the Cath Lab.
During an angiogram, injectors are used to help diagnose coronary artery disease and treat it before it leads to a heart attack. The new injector technology helps control the dye amount going to the patient and prevents air bubbles from entering the artery. Cath Lab specialists perform more than 2,900 angiograms and angioplasties annually, Dunlop noted.
“These patients are the people you see at a Petes’ game, go to the cottage with us, and sit across from us at the dinner table,” he said.
This new contrast dye injector for the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) was funded by donors to the PRHC Foundation. (Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation)
“But it’s not just for the community — it’s people from across our region that donors are supporting as well,” Dunlop added. “We serve a large geographical area of up to 600,000 people, from the Durham region, north to Haliburton and southwest to Belleville, so the technology that donors fund helps us to provide excellent care closer to home.”
Charge technologist Brad Plain spoke on PRHC’s new nuclear medicine SPECT/CT technology, a diagnostic imaging “combo” used to identify masses such as tumours.
This investment represents the biggest technological leap forward in nuclear medicine in more than a decade, and is the first to be installed in Canada.
Images taken using radioactive compounds that have been injected, ingested or inhaled by the patient are combined with 360-degree CT (computerized tomography) images, giving the doctor both the structural information from the CT and the functional information from the SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) study needed to diagnose, stage, and localize lesions or disease.
This new SPECT/CT scanner at Petebrorough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), the first to be installed in Canada, was funded by donors to the PRHC Foundation. (Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation)
Dr. Rola Shaheen, chief of radiology and medical director of diagnostic imaging, and Jill Cummings, senior technologist with the Breast Assessment Centre, were also on hand to show donors their revolutionary new breast imaging equipment. It reduces anxiety and enhances comfort, allowing technologists to focus on precise positioning making the exam easier and faster.
The equipment was the result of a three-year campaign at the PRHC Foundation that included mammography innovation and reinvestment, with a goal of $1.9 million to purchase three new, full-field digital mammography machines.
Peterborough resident and breast cancer survivor Carol Mutton was pleased to see that the mammography machines are available locally and are more inviting for women to improve the screening rates so vital to cancer prevention.
“I had my treatments at the Women’s College Hospital in Sunnybrook because I was working in that area in Toronto,” Mutton said. “Now, I’m quite enthusiastic about having my care at this hospital. I had a mammogram not that long ago using the new equipment and it was excellent.”
Current Dragon Boat chair Michelle Thornton, past chair Carol Mutton, and incoming chair Gina Lee at the PRHC Foundation’s Celebration of Giving event in October 2018. (Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation)
Mutton is also a long-time member of the Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival team, Survivors Abreast. The team’s efforts were instrumental in helping generate the millions of dollars from past festivals that have supported the Breast Assessment Centre and cancer care at PRHC.
“Our dragon boat team is all breast cancer survivors, so for us it’s crucial to have leading-edge mammography. Many members of our team are now using that equipment. To know that I had a small part to play in helping bring in those donations is thrilling.”
In the end, the PRHC Foundation’s success in supporting great patient care closer to home comes down to the cumulative impact of generous community donors like Peterborough residents Lloyd and Angie George, who have donated to the hospital for the last 30 years.
“Healthcare is important to the community and even more important as we age,” said Lloyd, who attended the event with Angie and their daughter Patty Serota. “I’ve been admitted to the hospital five or six times for heart surgery, stomach surgery, and other things. My wife has been in the hospital for hip and knee replacement surgery as well. We’ve received great care.”
Angie George (left) and Lloyd George (right) have donated to PRHC Foundation for the last 30 years. They’ve also both been patients at the hospital and their daughter Patty Serota (centre), who works at the PRHC Gift Shop, is thankful for the great care they received, in part due to the generosity of donors like her parents. (Photo: Bianca Nucaro / kawarthaNOW.com)
Coincidentally, Serota herself works at PRHC — in the Gift Shop, where profits from sales are also used to fund equipment at the hospital.
“They have recovered very well with the supports in place after the surgeries, including follow-up appointments and physiotherapy,” Serota said. “It was comforting knowing, as a family member, they were getting great care to get them healthy again.”
For more information about the PRHC Foundation and how you can make great healthcare possible in our community, call 705-876-5000, email foundation@prhc.on.ca, or visit www.prhcfoundation.ca.
This story was created in partnership with the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation.
Monika Carmichael, dealer principal and general manager of Trent Valley Honda, was named Hall of Fame Chancellor by Junior Achievement - Peterborough, Lakeland, Muskoka (JA-PLM) during a gathering held Tuesday morning (September 17) at VentureNorth in downtown Peterborough. Carmichael, who replaces outgoing Chancellor Michael Skinner (left), will guide the 2020 Business Hall of Fame induction selection committee through its paces. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW.com)
Is there a businessperson in your community who has gone above and beyond to provide not only great service but encouraged and mentored others to thrive in business in the process?
Well, now is not the time to stay quiet.
Junior Achievement of Peterborough, Lakeland, Muskoka (JA-PLM) will soon begin accepting nominations for 2020 induction into its Business Hall of Fame. According to JA-PLM executive assistant Cody McIntyre, nominations open on Thursday, October 17th and will remain open until the end of November.
Nomination forms will be available at the JA-PLM office at VentureNorth, 270 George Street North (at King Street) in downtown Peterborough as well as online at www.jacanada.org/plm.
A crowd gathered at VentureNorth in downtwon Peterborough on Tuesday morning (September 17) as Junior Achievement – Peterborough, Lakeland, Muskoka (JA-PLM) announced that nominations for 2020 induction into the Business Hall of Fame will be accepted starting October 17. Included among the onlookers were several current inductees. The next induction, to be held May 28, 2020 at The Venue, will be the fifth annual. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW.com)
The fifth Business Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held Thursday, May 28, 2020 at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough). More details on that event will be available in early January when JA-PLM reveals the new inductees.
McIntyre adds that past nominees will automatically be up for consideration once again by the induction selection committee, although their nominators may be contacted to update information.
At a gathering held on Tuesday (September 17) in the VentureNorth lobby, nomination details were announced but that wasn’t the only JA-PLM business conducted, as Monika Carmichael, dealer principal and general manager of Trent Valley Honda, was named the new Hall of Fame Chancellor, replacing outgoing chancellor Michael Skinner.
In her role, Carmichael, a 2018 Business Hall of Fame inductee, will guide the selection committee through its paces.
“It’s truly an honour to be at the table with such an amazing and talented group, and to oversee the process,” said Carmichael, noting there’s no shortage of nominees awaiting the committee’s consideration.
“Look at the numbers last year with 40 nominees. That’s only going to grow with awareness.”
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As for own induction, Carmichael says it remains a point of pride for her.
“It’s such an honour. It’s so humbling. It has also been a source of inspiration. You want to prove yourself even more. You want to give more and strive to do better. Receiving isn’t natural but giving is what we aspire to, so it has been a real win-win that way. It has opened up an incredible source of information, connections and relationships which, in this community, is so important.”
Meanwhile, named to the position of Class President formerly held by Carmichael is Dana Empey of Carlson Wagonlit Stewart Travel. In that role, Empey will head up inductee engagement, participate in key JA-PLM events, and help promote next spring’s induction ceremony.
RBC Vice-President Commercial Scott Mancini (right) handed over a cheque for $61,000 to Junior Achievement – Peterborough, Lakeland, Muskoka board executive secretary John McNutt during a gathering held Tuesday (September 17) at at VentureNorth in downtown Peterborough. The money will go towards JA-PLM’s World of Choices program that exposes students to a variety of different occupations. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW.com)
In addition, John McNutt, executive secretary of the JA-PLM board, accepted financial contributions from RBC, represented by Vice-President Commercial Scott Mancini, and then from Mortlock Construction Vice-President Craig Mortlock.
RBC’s investment of $61,000 will go towards JA-PLM’s World of Choices program that exposes students in this catchment area and across the province to a variety of different occupations to consider pursuing
“RBC has a program entitled Future Launch, a decade-long commitment to help both public and private institutions and organizations build the Canadian youths’ skills through work experience, skills development and networking,” explained Mancini, adding, “The World of Choices program couldn’t be any better a fit with that endeavor.”
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Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Inductees
2016
Erica Cherney
Cameron Taylor
Charlotte and Robert Nicholls
Bill, Chester and Frank Fisher
Keith Brown
David Fife
James Stevenson
Ross Smith
2017
Jack McGee
Robert Young
Joseph James (JJ) Duffus
Isadore Black
Darrell Drain
Rhonda Barnett
John Bowes
Michael Skinner
2018
Alf and Jane Curtis
Paul Bennett
John A. McColl and James H. Turner
John James (Jack) Stewart
Sally Harding
Monika Carmichael
Robert Gauvreau
Paschal McCloskey
Carl Oake
2019
John Gillis
Michael Konopaski
Dr. Ramesh Makhija
Janet McLeod
Dave Smith
Scott Stewart and Dana Empey
Glenn Stuart
Mike and Shelby Watt
Robert Winslow
Scott Wood
Meanwhile, Mortlock, representing the Peterborough and District Construction Association alongside Brent Perry of Alf Curtis Home Improvements, handed over $5,000 from the association for JA-PLM initiatives aimed at increasing high school students’ interest in the skilled trades as an occupation consideration. He later noted that a serious shortage of skilled tradesmen across the province is being felt locally.
“We don’t just want the people that fall through the cracks to pursue this (skilled trades … we want all academic levels to pursue this as a career,” noted Mortlock.
“First, there’s a shortage and, second, there’s opportunity for entrepreneurship. We want to see JA expose this to as many youths as possible so the ones that are pre-programmed to be tradespeople, to work with their hands, aren’t dissuaded because of outside influences or a lack of exposure. So there’s work and there’s opportunity.”
Mortlock credited the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board with doing “an amazing job” promoting the trades. At Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School this past summer, students entering Grade 9 this fall were enrolled in a program that saw them build a Muskoka chair to earn a high school credit.
Established in 1955, Junior Achievement Canada has been inspiring and preparing youth to succeed by providing opportunities to learn financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness skills with engaging programs and the help of dedicated volunteers.
Since 2007, Junior Achievement Peterborough, Lakefield, Muskoka has served an area stretching from the Grey-Bruce Peninsula to the Ontario-Quebec border. That effort has been aided by a number of corporate and media sponsors, kawarthaNOW.com among them.
For more information Junior Achievement of Peterborough Lakefield Muskoka, visit www.jacanada.org/plm.
If you want to connect with nature and help protect natural spaces, Kawartha Land Trust is looking for volunteers for several land stewardship activities this fall, including an October 5th event on the McKim-Garsonnin Property in Pontypool where volunteers
will help staff pick the seeds of an endangered ecosystem to help in the future replanting of the grasses and wildflowers of our native prairies. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Land Trust)
Although summer is almost over, the work of volunteers with Kawartha Land Trust (KLT) continues into the fall — and the registered charity is looking for more volunteers as it continues to grow.
To protect important natural spaces in the Kawarthas, KLT accepts donations of land (or interests in land) to ensure they are cared for in perpetuity. The non-governmental organization is currently protecting 17 properties totalling 4,101 acres, and assists in the management of five additional properties.
Last year, more than 110 volunteers helped the organization carry out its mission to maintain protected lands in their natural state.
Listed below are some of the upcoming volunteer activities at KLT properties this fall — along with a few non-volunteer events to help you connect with nature.
If you aren’t able to volunteer, you can also help out KLT by participating in one of its upcoming public engagement sessions to help guide the future of the organization.
With new executive director John Kintare at the helm, KTL’s board of directors is developing the organization’s new strategic plan and is hosting a series of in-person consultation sessions in September.
“We have engaged an external consultant to facilitate a series of public engagement sessions over the coming weeks,” says board chair John Desbiens in a letter to supporters. “They are committed to fostering open, honest, and meaningful discussions. We especially invite you to attend the session that is closest to where you live or visit most.”
Kawartha Land Trust is hosting a series of pblic engagement sessions across the Kawarthas in September to help guide the future of the organization. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Land Trust)
The upcoming public engagement sessions are:
Lakefield – Wednesday, September 18th from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Marshland Centre (64 Hague Blvd., Lakefield)
North Kawartha – Wednesday, September 18th from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Wilson Park Community Centre (66 Northeys Bay Rd., Woodview)
Lindsay – Thursday, September 19th from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Kawartha Lakes Public Library (190 Kent St. W., Lindsay)
Peterborough – Friday, September 20th from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Heritage Room at The Mount Community Centre (1545 Monaghan Rd., Peterborough)
CANCELLED – Asphodel-Norwood – Tuesday, September 24th from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Westwood Public Library (350-302 Centre Ln., Hastings)
Bobcaygeon – Wednesday, September 25th from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Bobcaygeon Municipal Service Centre (123 East St. S,, Bobcaygeon)
Coboconk – Wednesday, September 25th from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at Coboconk Train Station (6699 Highway 35, Coboconk)
There are two additional sessions being planned, for Bethany & Manvers and Buckhorn. Email Shivaan Burke at sburke@kawarthalandtrust.org to receive notification of booking once confirmed.
Land stewardship activities
In 2018, more than 110 volunteers helped Kawartha Land Trust carry out its mission to protect donated lands in perpetuity. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Land Trust)
Here are upcoming opportunities to volunteer with KLT. For more information and to register, visit kawarthalandtrust.org.
Restoration Site Prep & Soil Transfer – Thursday, September 19th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Help KLT staff in transferring and spreading soil onto the riparian zone of Horseshoe Pond. The event takes place beside Emily Lake between Lindsay and Bobcaygeon (email pwilson@kawarthalandtrust.org for the exact meeting location).
Prairie Seed Collecting – Saturday, October 5th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Help KLT staff pick the seeds of an endangered ecosystem to help in the future replanting of the grasses and wildflowers of our native prairies. This event takes place at the Ballyduff Trails on the McKim-Garsonnin Property (851 Ballyduff Rd., Pontypool).
Buckthorn Removal & Site Prep – Sunday, October 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Heop KLT staff remove invasive European Buckthorn from areas that KLT is working to restore and will be planting native species in later this fall. If you are a certified chainsaw operator, this will be an asset. The event takes place beside Emily Lake between Lindsay and Bobcaygeon (email pwilson@kawarthalandtrust.org for the exact meeting location).
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Riparian Zone Planting – Saturday October 12th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Help KLT staff plant native riparian zone plants, shrubs, and trees to help stabilize a constructed pond and increase biodiversity. Volunteers will also help with planting along an agricultural field to reduce run off into the newly created pond. The event takes place beside Emily Lake between Lindsay and Bobcaygeon (email pwilson@kawarthalandtrust.org for the exact meeting location).
Battle of the Buckthorn – Saturday, October 12th and Friday, October 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In this two-day event, volunteers will remove the invasive European Buckthorn shrub from John Earle Chase Memorial Park.
Native Tree Transplanting – Sunday, October 22nd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Help KLT staff transplant previously planted conifers to help provide more space for them to spread out and grow. Volunteers may also get the opportunity to assist in removing some invasive species. The event takes place beside Emily Lake between Lindsay and Bobcaygeon (email pwilson@kawarthalandtrust.org for the exact meeting location).
Island Pond Planting – Sunday, October 25th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Help KLT staff plant native trees and shrubs to help stabilize the banks of a constructed pond and to mitigate erosion. Planting native trees and shrubs will help to increase the biodiversity of the are and prevent invasive species from inhabiting the disturbed areas surrounding the pond. The event takes place beside Emily Lake between Lindsay and Bobcaygeon (email pwilson@kawarthalandtrust.org for the exact meeting location).
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Nature connection events
Kawartha Land Trust offers regular events where the public can explore some of the properties the organization is protecting. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Land Trust)
If you’re not interested or unavailable to volunteer with KLT but still want to connect with nature, check out these upcoming public events. For more information and to register, visit kawarthalandtrust.org.
Fleetwood Hills Hike – Sunday, September 22nd from 2 to 4 p.m.
Fleetwood Creek is one of the most natural parts of our region. Join KLT and explore the hogsback trail with an expert naturalist to learn about the wildlife corridors and ecology of this special region.
The hike takes place at Hogsback in Omemee (the exact location will be provided once you register).
Pine Ridge Open Gate – Saturday, September 28th from 2 to 4 p.m.
Join KLT for an afternoon of adventure and take advantage of this unique opportunity to tour this property not normally open to the public. Pine Ridge is protected via conservation easement agreement, protecting the giant pre-settlement white pine and beautiful rolling hills on this private property.
The event takes place at Pine Ridge (Hartley), near Emily Provincial Park (the exact location will be provided once you register).
KLT’s annual “Thanks.giving” – Thursday, October 10th from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
Join KLT at South Pond Farms at 4:30 p.m. for an interpretive nature walk on the neighbouring KLT-protected Ballyduff Trails and stay for the social hour at 6 p.m., which includes light refreshments, remarks from KLT executive director John Kintare, and entertainment by musicians Mike Graham with Dennis Pendrith.
For more information about Kawartha Land Trust, including volunteering and donating, visit kawarthalandtrust.org.
This story was created in partnership with Kawartha Land Trust.
Dooher's Bakery in Campbellford, known for delicious baked goods including its famous cream-filled crueller, was named "Sweetest Bakery in Canada" in an online contest in 2018. The family-owned bakery is defending its title this year in the same contest, sponsored by Michigan-based Dawn Food Products, with a grand prize valued at almost $7,000. (Photo: Dooher's Bakery / Facebook)
businessNOW™ is the most comprehensive weekly round-up of business and organizational news and events from Peterborough and across the Kawarthas.
Every week, our managing editor collects news and events related to businesses and organizations from across the Kawarthas. If you’d like us to promote your news or event in businessNOW, please email business@kawarthanow.com.
This week’s business and organizational news includes Dooher’s Bakery in Campbellford defending its title as “Sweetest Bakery in Canada”, Publican House Brewery and Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. taking home 2019 Ontario Brewing Awards, Stewart Tours donating $6,375 to Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation, Swish Maintenance winning the Balpex Member of the Year Award for the second year in a row, and TD Canada Trust and Otonabee Conservation planting 250 new trees and shrubs in Millbrook.
New regional business events added this week include the Innovation Cluster’s hands-on seminar on cyber security in Peterborough on October 2nd and the Peterborough Chamber’s 2019 Business Excellence Awards in Peterborough on October 16th.
Dooher’s Bakery in Campbellford defending its title as “Sweetest Bakery in Canada”
Dooher’s Bakery won the grand prize in the inaugural “Sweetest Bakery in Canada” content in 2018, and is defending its title again this year. Pictured is a representative from contest sponsor Dawn Food Products (left) presenting the award plaque to owner Cory Dooher (second from left) and her parents Peter and Christine. (Photo: Dooher’s Bakery / Facebook)
Dooher’s Bakery (61 Bridge St. E., Campbellford) is in the running again for the “Sweetest Bakery in Canada” contest, sponsored by Michigan-based Dawn Food Products, Inc.
The family-run bakery took home the grand prize in the inaugural contest last year. This year, as of the date of this story, Dooher’s is currently in second place, both nationally and in Ontario, with Belleville Bakery in the lead.
The national grand prize winner will receive a prize package valued at $6,721, which includes a trip to Dawn’s innovation studio to participate in a workshop with Dawn’s executive pastry chef. There will also be seven winners, one from each province or region, in the categories sweetest donut shop, sweetest cake/cupcake shop, and sweetest full line bakery (this is the category Dooher’s is in).
Customers line up outside Dooher’s Bakery in Campbellford, one of the most popular bakeries in the Kawarthas. (Photo: Dooher’s Bakery / Facebook)
Dooher’s was founded in 1949 by Muriel and Harry Dooher, and is currently operated by the founders’ granddaughter Cory Dooher. Using special family recipes, the bakery produces sweet rolls, pastries, squares, pies, short breads, muffins, donuts, cookies, and more.
In addition to Dooher’s, there are three other Kawarthas bakeries in the competition. Doo Doo’s Bakery (187 County Rd. 28, Bailieboro) is the leading contender in Ontario in the sweetest donut shop category. The Kawartha Buttertart Factory & Bakery (895 Water St., Warsaw) and Memories (33057 Highway 62, Maynooth) are also in the contest.
Online and text message voting in the contest began on July 1st and continues until midnight on Monday, September 30th. You can vote for your favourite bakery once a day at sweetestbakeryincanada.com.
If you want to help Dooher’s edge out Belleville and hold onto its title as Canada’s sweetest bakery, you can vote directly online at sweetestbakeryincanada.com/bakery/doohers-bakery/ or by texting SBC5039 to 393939.
Publican House Brewery and Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. take home 2019 Ontario Brewing Awards
Samantha Brown, Derek Murray, Kevin Buckle, and Kevin Picken of Publican House Brewery at the 2019 Ontario Brewing Awards, where the Peterborough brewery took home a gold medal and two silver medals. (Photo: Ontario Brewing Awards)
Both Publican House Brewery (300 Charlotte St, Peterborough) and Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. (17 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon and 649 The Parkway, Peterborough) have won medals at the 2019 Ontario Brewing Awards ceremony held in Toronto last Thursday (September 12).
Medal winners in each of the 30 categories were evaluated by a team of Beer Judge Certification Program judges.
Publican House Brewery took home a gold medal in the American Brown Ale category for their Henry’s Irish Ale (the brew had previously won a silver award at the 2017 awards). They also won silver in the Kölsch category for their flagship Pub House Ale and another silver in the Experimental Beer category for their seasonal Brut Ale.
Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. took home silver in the Belgian Ale category for their Bobcaygeon Firefly Belgian White and bronze in the New England IPA category for Bobcaygeon Northern Lights Hazy IPA.
Stewart Tours donates $6,375 to Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation
Stewart Tours (now Blowes & Stewart Travel Group Ltd.) with a cheque for $6,375 for the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation. (Photo courtesy of Blowes & Stewart Travel Group Ltd.)
Local travel agency Stewart Tours (232 Brock St., Peterborough) has donated $6,375 to Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation.
The donation was made last Thursday (September 12) on the occasion of the final flight to New York City in the Stewart Tours 2019 Peterborough Departures program, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Peterborough Airport and marking the 45th year in business for G. Stewart Travel Services, Ltd. (which recently merged with Blowes Travel and Cruise Centres of Stratford to form Blowes & Stewart Travel Group Ltd.).
“We are grateful to Stewart Tours and all of the travellers enjoying this wonderful trip to New York City,” said Lesley Heighway, president and CEO of PRHC Foundation which recently celebrated its own 40th anniversary.
“This generous donation will help our doctors and nurses have access to the very best tools and technology that support innovative, compassionate, world class care for patients from across our region.”
Swish Maintenance wins Balpex Member of the Year Award for second year in a row
Swish Maintenance celebrating its second consecutive Balpex Member of the Year Award. (Photo: Swish Maintenance)
Peterborough-based sanitation and maintenance supply company Swish Maintenance has won the Balpex 2019 Member of the Year in the cleaning and hygiene category.
This is the second consecutive year that Swish Maintenance has won the award.
Balpex is a not-for-profit collective buying group for independent Canadian distributors and has more than 50 members, including Swish. Voted on by Balpex members, the Member of the Year award is based on criteria including the ability to commercialize new product innovations and professional sales support from representatives.
“It is rewarding to be compared to our peers and recognized for this award by our vendors,” says Swish CEO Andre Peters. “This is a tribute to our general managers, sales, branch, and head office teams who work with vendors to bring our brand to life,.”
Established in 1956 in Peterborough, the Swish Group of Companies is a family-owned business and a distributor of sanitation solutions through 15 locations in Canada and the United States.
TD Canada Trust and Otonabee Conservation plant 250 new trees and shrubs in Millbrook
More than 50 volunteers, including TD Canada Trust employees and their families, planted 250 native trees and shrubs in Millbrook as part of the TD Tree Days initiative. (Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation)
Last Saturday (September 14), more than 50 volunteers planted 250 new native trees and shrubs in Millbrook, along the shoreline of the Millpond at Medd’s Mountain and along the Station Trail.
The native species — which included eastern white cedar, speckled alder, dogwood, elderberry, nannyberry, and willow — will support natural diversity and wildlife habitat.
Otonabee Conservation staff were on site to provide technical support and share information about the value of trees within the natural environment.
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The planting was part of TD Tree Days, in partnership with TD Canada Trust. Through the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, TD Tree Days — which aims to plant one million trees by 2030 in communities across the country — provides TD employees and their families and friends, along with the community, the opportunity to volunteer and help build healthy and vibrant communities.
“The day was a great success,” says Erin McLeod, an employee with TD Canada Trust employee and volunteer site leader. “TD and so many community volunteers had a great time and did an amazing job, which speaks well of the commitment of TD staff, their families, and municipal support from the Township of Cavan Monaghan to improving the local environment and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities through TD Tree Days.”
Since 2010, almost 400,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted across Canada under the TD Tree Days program. Millbrook is one of more than 100 sites across Canada where TD Tree Days is planting trees and shrubs this fall.
Peterborough DBIA breakfast network with Su Ditta in Peterborough on September 18
Su Ditta, executive director of Electric City Culture Council (EC3), at the Peterborough Arts Awards. (Photo: EC3)
The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is hosting its next breakfast network meeting from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 18th at Empress Gardens (131 Charlotte St., Peterborough).
Guest speaker Su Ditta, executive director of Electric City Culture Council (EC3), will bring an illustrated talk offering a behind the scenes look at the arts scene in Peterborough and its impact on our social, economic, and cultural vitality.
Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. with the guest speaker at 8 a.m.
The event is open to everyone. Tickets are $5 at the door.
Peterborough Chamber hosts digital marketing seminar in Peterborough on September 18
The next Peterborough Chamber of Commerce Lunch Box Learning seminar takes place from 12 to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18th at the Chamber’s boardroom (175 George St. N., Peterborough).
Toby Macleod of Stradegy.ca will speak about implementing your business’s digital marketing strategy.
The seminar is free to attend for members of the Chamber and members of the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough. Bring your own lunch.
Kawartha Chamber hosts Business After Hours in Apsley on September 19
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting its next Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, September 19th in Apsley.
Stops so far include Anstruther Marina (Highway 28 & McFadden Rd.), Four Seasons on Wellington (next to Apsley Home Hardware), and North Kawartha Community Centre (340 McFadden Rd.).
Bobcaygeon Chamber hosts Stoney Lake evening cruise for members in Woodview on September 23
The Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting an evening cruise for its members from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, September 23rd at Stoney Lake Cruises (610 Julian Viamede Rd., Woodview).
Network with fellow members while enjoying the spectacular scenery of Stoney Lake from Stoney Lake Cruises’ Spirit of the Kawarthas.
Snacks will be provided and a cash bar will be available.
Community Futures Peterborough hosts financial workshop in Peterborough on September 24
Community Futures Peterborough is hosting “Financial Foundations”, a workshop from 8:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 24th in the boardroom at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough).
At this workshop, entrepreneurs and those interested in starting a business will learn about federal and provincial funding, local resources available, and how to enter the Company Startup Plus program. Keynote speaker Marie Dietrich, partner at Grant Thorton, will discuss the top five common mistakes young companies make.
Diversity and inclusion in the workplace information session in Lindsay on September 26
The Workforce Development Board/Local Employment Planning Council, in partnership with the Lindsay DBIA and the Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce, is hosting an information session on diversity and inclusion in the workplace from 8 to 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 26th at Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lindsay (134 Angeline St. S., Lindsay).
The free session will feature guest speaker Lindsay Kretschmer, executive director of the Toronto Aboriginal Support Services Council. Her areas of expertise include Indigenous social justice issues and well being, provincial and federal negotiations, program and training development, research and evaluation, policy and advocacy, and capacity and partnership building.
A webinar will be available for those unavailable to attend in person (details will be provided upon registration).
FLEX Fitness and AW Media Consulting host fall refresh women’s networking event in Lindsay on September 26
Cathy Steffler of FLEX Fitness and Ashley Webster of AW Media Consulting are hosting a fall refresh women’s networking event from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 26th at FLEX Fitness (66 William St. N., Lindsay).
The event features networking and conversation with like-minded business women along with wine and chocolate. Ashley Webster owner of AW Media Consulting will provide a 45-minute hands-on social media workshop focused on Instagram and Facebook, covering social media best practices, handling negative comments and reviews, social media advertising, building your brand online, and technical tips.
FLEX Fitness is a child-friendly space with a play area, so children are welcome.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce presents “Scaling Up Small Business” in Peterborough on September 27
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce is presenting “Scaling Up Small Business”, a regional panel discussion and report launch event, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, September 27th at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough).
The event will bring together private and public sector stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges related to growing a business in Ontario. Ontario Associate Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction Prabmeet Sarkaria will make remarks, followed by a keynote presentation by Diane Richard, Director of Product Development, Charlotte Products. A panel discussion moderated by Derek Newton (Assistant Vice President, Innovation Partnerships and Entrepreneurship, University of Toronto) will feature Rhonda Keenan (President and CEO, Peterborough and the Kawarthas Economic Development), Dylan Trepanier ( CEO, Alexander Optical), and John Porter (President and CEO, BarterPay).
Local business organizations host members-only all-candidates debate on economic growth and development in Peterborough on September 30
Local business organizations are hosting a members-only all-candidates debate on economic growth and development from 5:30 to 10 p.m. on Monday, September 30th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough).
This event is hosted by the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area, Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of Realtors, Peterborough and the Kawarthas Homebuilders Association, Kawartha Manufacturers’ Association, Women’s Business Network of Peterborough, and the Peterborough and District Construction Association.
Venture13 hosts TechXpo Cybersecurity Challenge in Cobourg on October 5
The TechXpo Cybersecurity Challenge takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Saturday, October 5th at Venture13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre (739 D’Arcy St., Cobourg).
This event is part of the global CyberLympics, sponsored by SiberX, Durham College AI-Hub, and Venture13. The purpose of the event is to encourage developers to bring forward innovative ideas for cybersecurity applications that are technically feasible and commercially viable.
Teams will have one day to advance their concepts and pitch them to a panel of experts. Mentors and advisors will be available to help teams rapidly iterate their concepts and prepare a pitch presentation to the judges. The winner of the TechXpo Cybersecurity Challenge and the $1,000 cash team prize will be announced at the Cyberlympics finale at Durham College on October 26th, 2019.
TechXpo is sponsored by Venture13 VentureZone Members Eagle Aerospace and ConnexHealth Inc. and the Cobourg Police Service.
Venture13 presents Fireside Chat on Technology Adaptation and Healthcare in Cobourg on October 7
Venture13 is presenting its next Fireside Chat, on the topic “Technology Adaptation and Healthcare”, from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, October 7th in the Innovation Commons at Venture13 (739 D’Arcy St., Cobourg)
Sponsored by ConnexHealth, the free event features a keynote by Dr. Mukesh Bhargava (Chief of Staff, Northumberland Hills Hospital) and a panel discussion led by practitioners, innovators, and policy leaders, moderated by Rhonda Cunningham (Director, Northumberland CFDC and Executive Director, Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation).
Business & Entrepreneurship Conference Northumberland in Cobourg on October 10
The second annual Business & Entrepreneurship Conference Northumberland takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 10th at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre (930 Burnham St., Cobourg).
Presented by Northumberland County, Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland, Destination Ontario, and Kawarthas Northumberland, the one-day high-level business growth conference is designed to educate, motivate, and promote collaboration.
Keynote speakers include Ron Tsang on the topic “Influential Communication for Entrepreneurs” and Andrew Patrico on the topic “How to Cost and Price Your Products and Services Profitably”.
The cost is $45+HST, which includes breakfast and lunch.
Kawartha Chamber hosts Awards of Excellence and Social Gala in Lakefield on October 10
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting its 20th Annual Awards of Excellence and Social Gala from 6:30 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, October 10th at Lakefield College School (4391 County Rd. 29, Lakefield).
There will be a silent and live auction, light hor d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and a social hour for networking in Upper Hadden Hall before the presentation of the awards in the Bryan Jones Theatre.
Peterborough Chamber hosts 2019 Business Excellence Awards in Peterborough on October 16
Awards in 20 categories will be presented at the 2019 Business Excellence Awards at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Peterborough Chamber of Commerce)
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 2019 Business Excellence Awards at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16th at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough).
Awards will be presented in 20 categories, including Business Citizen of the Year.
The event begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m. on the Nexicom Studio followed by the awards ceremony at 7:30 p.m. in the Erica Cherney Theatre.
Tickets are $50+HST, available at excellencepeterborough.ca/tickets. Your tickets includes one complimentary beverage and light hors d’oeuvres catered by The Imperial Tandoor.
For more business-related events in the Kawarthas, check out our Business Events column.
One person is dead following a fiery crash on Highway 7 about 25 kilometres east of Peterborough on Sunday night (September 15).
At around 8 p.m., Peterborough County OPP and emergency crews responded to a collision between Asphodel 3rd Line and 4th Line, just east of the Indian River Reptile Zoo.
Police report that a vehicle being driven west on Highway 7 left the highway and then crossed over into oncoming traffic, colliding with an eastbound vehicle and causing both to catch on fire.
The driver of the westbound vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the eastbound vehicle was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The two drivers were the only occupants of each vehicle.
Highway 7 was closed overnight until 6:30 a.m. on Monday morning while police documented the scene.
The body of the driver killed in the collision was transported to the Ontario Forensic Pathology Unit at the Forensic Services and Coroner’s Complex in Toronto for a post-mortem examination. Police have not yet released the name of the victim.
Police continue to investigate the cause of the collision.
J.P. Baldwin and Jennifer Gruer star in the Peterborough Theatre Guild production of Richard Alfireri's "Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks". The comedy, about a formidable widow who hires an acerbic dance instructor to give her dance lessons, runs from September 20 to October 5, 2019 at the Guild Hall in Peterborough. (Photo: Lynn Braun)
On Friday, September 20th, the Peterborough Theatre Guild opens its 2019-2020 season with Richard Alfireri’s Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks.
Peterborough Theatre Guild presents Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks
When: September 20 and 21, 26 – 28, October 3 – 5, 2019 at 8 p.m.; September 22 and 29, 2019 at 2 p.m. Where: Guild Hall (364 Rogers St., Peterborough) How much: $25 adults, $22 seniors, $15 students
Written by Richard Alfireri. Directed by Bea Quarrie. Choreographed by J.P. Baldwin. Starring Jennifer Gruer and J.P. Baldwin. Presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. Tickets available by calling the box office at 705-745-4211 (if not open leave a message) or online at theatreguild.org.
Directed by Bea Quarrie and produced by Ina Stenner, with assistance by Sharon McLeod and Lyn Braun, the Guild’s production of the international hit play stars Jennifer Gruer as Lily Harrison and J.P. Baldwin as Michael Minetti in what has been described as a touching and warm comedy.
Originally staged in 2001 at Los Angeles’ Giffen Playhouse, starring Uta Hagen as Lily and David Hyde Pierce as Michael, Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks made its Broadway debut in 2003 with Polly Bergen and Mark Hamill in the lead roles. Although the show had a relatively short run on Broadway (it closed prematurely due to Bergen’s health problems), the play has become a critical and audience favourite on stages throughout the world. It was also adapted into a 2014 film starring Gena Rowlands and Cheyenne Jackson.
“It’s really funny and at the same time touching,” director Bea Quarrie says of the play. “A lot of comedies that have boxed sets and multiple black outs really turn me off, so I choose to avoid them like the plague. But this one has something special about it — the writing is really strong, and it also has something to say. A lot of comedies are good for a good yuk, and you walk away without caring of what it’s about; I don’t enjoy them anymore. I wanted to do a comedy that says something.”
“It speaks politically as well as emotionally,” agrees J.P. Baldwin, who is also the show’s choreographer. “On the political stage, what it says still resonates — unfortunately.”
“Maybe more so now than when it was written, ” Bea adds. “Especially in the United States, but in Canada we’re not that far behind. It speaks on a human level about who we are, as human beings trying to reach out and be inclusive, while still being able to laugh. J.P. and Jennifer take my breath away because they are making those connections.”
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Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks is about Lily, a widow who has relocated to Florida, who hires former Broadway dance instructor Michael for a series of dance lessons in her home — one lesson per week for six weeks. Michael, having been forced out of his life as a Broadway chorus boy, is bitter about his new career as a private dance instructor and the first lesson does not go well.
However, over the six weeks, Michael and Lily develop a powerful connection based around their strong personalities and by working through their own recent life changes and losses.
“Lily is a delightful character,” says Jennifer Gruer. “She’s complex in that she’s had a previous life that was conservative and stifled. Now she is on her own and has an opportunity to expand and explore who she is, and Michael gives her that opportunity. He challenges her in every way, but she’s open enough to be challenged.”
VIDEO: Jennifer Gruer and J.P. Baldwin rehearsing for “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks”
“She’s feisty and quick witted for an old gal,” Jennifer adds. “I think she loves life but is feeling more and more that her life is running out, so she has to make the most of it.”
The Guild production of Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks is the fourth time that J.P. Baldwin has played the role of Michael. He first performed the role in Bobcaygeon’s Globus Theatre production in 2010, and reprised the role at the Orillia Opera House in 2012, and later in Gravenhurst in 2014.
“For most shows, the day after it closes, I mostly can’t tell you what my lines are because I need to learn the next show,” J.P. says. “But for this show — I think because of its exceptional writing, its message, and the fact that out of all the roles I’ve played I really connect with Michael — it resonates very deeply with me. It stays with me.”
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Having performed the role so many times, J.P. provides some insight into his character.
“Michael grew up in Florida but made his way to New York because he wanted to be somebody and wanted to perform,” J.P. explains. “He was a born performer, so he had a fairly long career on Broadway as a dancer. He probably was good, but he couldn’t sing or act very well so he got pigeon-holed as a dancer and became a staple in the chorus, which frustrates him.”
“He’s honest. He believes that manners are affectations left over from the aristocracy, and we are not the aristocracy, so he doesn’t understand why he shouldn’t be able to say or do the things he wants. The lines blur sometimes between him and me, so hopefully I bring some truth to this role.”
“That’s critical for both roles,” adds Bea. “I don’t think you have a play if the actors are not speaking their characters’ truth to each other — the sparks won’t fly. The truth won’t be there if we manufacture it, trying to manipulate the audience instead of giving them a slice of reality they can handle.”
Of course, with the play being about six dance lessons, it involves a fair amount of dancing including swing, the cha cha, the fox trot, and the tango. But, with life imitating art, J.P. — who has worked as a ballroom dance instructor — choreographed the show, which meant he was teaching Jennifer all of the dances.
J.P. Baldwin, who has worked as a ballroom dance instructor, choreographed the play and taught his co-star Jennifer Gruer to dance, just as his character does in “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks”, running from September 20 to October 5, 2019 at the Guild Hall in Peterborough. (Photo: Lynn Braun)
“The dancing is delightful and fun,” says Jennifer. “I’m not a trained dancer, but I love to move and dance. J.P. is a great instructor, both in life and in character.”
“Jennifer picks up choreography very quickly,” J.P. adds. “As a dance instructor, it’s delightful to be able to work with that.”
A show about two unlikely people at turning points in their lives who find friendship, loyalty, and compassion via dance, Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks is the perfect beginning to Peterborough Theatre Guild’s new season.
Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks opens at 8 p.m. on Friday, September 20th and Saturday, September 21st, and runs Thursdays to Saturdays until October 5th, with 2 p.m. matinees on Sunday, September 22nd and Sunday, September 29th. Tickets are $25 ($22 for seniors, $15 for students) and are available by calling the box office at 705-745-4211 (if not open leave a message) or online at theatreguild.org.
The set of Peterborough Theatre Guild’s production of “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks” on opening night at the Guild Hall in Peterborough. (Photo: Esther Vincent)
$1,000 a month to rent a beautiful four-bedroom house in a west-end Peterborough neighbourhood? That's the claim of a fake rental listing on Prop2Go.com for Jennifer Moher's home, which is actually for sale. Fraudsters copied the text and photos from the MLS listing intending to dupe unsuspecting people into paying a deposit in a growing scam that exploits both online anonymity and the desperation for affordable rental properties. Moher's parents Anne and Mark Lawless had a similar experience when they were selling their townhouse: they discovered a fake rental listing for their property on Craigslist, followed by people showing up at their door expecting to move in. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer Moher)
Imagine your surprise if you, a homeowner, opened your front door to a stranger who, with a rental agreement in hand, has arrived to move in.
A growing scam has made that a reality in Peterborough.
According to Andrew Galvin, a broker with RE/MAX Eastern Realty Inc., it’s a scam that has “boomed” in recent years, with at least six of his listings having been targeted.
How the scam works is as ridiculously simple as it is devious.
People searching online for rental accommodation come across listings featuring details and photos of available properties. If interested, they are directed to sign a rental agreement and provide a deposit, typically covering first and last month’s rent. It all appears perfectly legitimate.
There’s one small problem though — the homes listed are not actually for rent. They are for sale, the details and photos replicated from MLS listings that are legitimate. Those who enter an agreement to rent discover they have been duped way too late, with any deposit they have paid long gone.
Anne and Mark Lawless recently sold their Peterborough townhouse. Prior to its legitimate sale, they found a rental listing for their property on Craigslist.
“Two people showed up at our townhouse — two young people from Ottawa — and said ‘So, is this the house for rent?'” recounts Anne.
“My husband was like ‘Uh, no.’ They showed him the ad and the emails that were sent back and forth. Then I went on Craigslist and found it. I emailed Craigslist twice asking them to remove the ad immediately. I never heard back, but the ad was taken off.”
How to spot a rental scam
The rent is far lower than other comparable rental properties.
You are told you can’t see the rental in person, for whatever reason.
You are offered a rental/lease without having to provide any background information to the landlord.
The landlord claims to be out of the country.
You are asked to send money without ever having met anyone or having seen the rental.
The rental listing photos have an MLS watermark (R for REALTOR) — which means the property is for sale, not rent.
Anne adds that, about two weeks later, her neighbour informed them that someone came to her door and asked for the key to their townhouse, saying they were renting the property.
“They were told that the key was next door (to our house),” she says, adding that the defrauded renter “actually had his mail forwarded to our townhouse. He obviously sent in the down payment .. I think it was $700.”
“Then the people that bought our townhouse called us and said ‘I just wanted to mention that a young girl came to my door saying she had rented this townhouse and was moving in.’ That’s three people who showed up and two of them obviously paid the $700 (deposit).”
In a strange coincidence, the Lawless’s daughter, Jennifer Moher, whose southwest Peterborough home is listed for sale, has had a similar experience. She came across her property listed for rent on the website Prop2Go.com.
“They took everything from my proper listing for sale and copied it, word for word, took the photos too, and made it to look like it’s a rental property,” she says.
“I sent an email (through the website) for more information about my property. I got an email back from someone named Michael Fish, which is obviously a made-up name. He wrote the house is still available for rent. I responded saying I’m interested in moving forward with things and they said they would send me a rental agreement.”
The fake rental listing on Prop2Go.com for Jennifer Moher’s home. Prop2go.com is a website based out of Saint John, New Brunswick that allows users to upload apartment rental and real estate listings. Fraudulent listings have appeared on this website, as well as similar listing websites such as Craigslist and Kijii. Prop2go.com CEO Jason Richard has stated his company will remove fraudulent listings when they are notified of them. (Screenshot)
Moher checked out Prop2Go’s Facebook page where she says she found “a whole bunch of shitty reviews. I Googled them too and a lot of stuff came up about it being a scam. No one has covered this locally. No one is talking about it. People need to know.”
Galvin couldn’t agree more.
“I’ve informed the police, I’ve informed sellers. It’s really difficult to get to the bottom of who’s doing it and how to stop them.”
He adds that his assistant has fielded “lots of calls” on the matter.
“People are standing in the driveway (of homes listed for sale) with $1,000 gone and they are there to sign a lease, because someone told them that they would meet them there on a certain day at a certain time. No one shows up, and they’ve already sent their money away.”
kawarthaNOW reached out to Detective Constable Keith Calderwood of the Peterborough Police Service, who investigates fraud cases, but he was unavailable for comment. However, Mark Lawless says he has been told by police that while it’s a growing scam, there’s nothing police can do, adding he was told to “be careful when you open your door to someone.”
“(The defrauded person) spent money, so right off the bat they’re feeling they’ve been ripped off; you want to be very careful when people feel that way,” says Mark.
Mark and Anne, along with Moher and Galvin, are in agreement a scam such as this is thriving because of the shortage of rental properties on the market, not just in Peterborough but in communities across the province.
“People are desperate to find places and desperate people do stupid things — they’re falling for this,” reasons Galvin.
His advice is sound and timeless: “Don’t do anything online with people you don’t know. If you’re going to rent something, set up an appointment to meet at the house rather than sending money to someone you don’t know online.”
How to avoid falling for a rental scam
When you find an online listing you are interested in, visit the actual address to confirm it is actually for rent.
Insist on seeing the rental property in person with the landlord present.
Search for the address online to ensure it’s not a duplicate listing.
Never send money to a person whose identity you haven’t confirmed.
Listen to your gut: if it seems fishy or too good to be true, it probably is.
“They’re stealing photos from our MLS, from our website, and saying ‘Here’s a house for rent.’,” he adds.
“There are some awful good scammers out there with really believable websites. Unless you meet with someone face to face and they unlock the door to show you the apartment or house, you’re crazy to do otherwise.”
“Most landlords would be glad to meet with people before they rent to them. They’re going to have an appointment or a showing time.”
Moher concurs.
“People need to do their research,” she says. “There are certain rules you should follow. Never give people money without actually meeting in person or going to see a property. You would think that is self-explanatory, a no-brainer, but unfortunately people are getting screwed over.”
And, if the rent seems too good to be true, it probably is, as Moher points out when referring to the fake listing for her property.
“It’s for an entire four-bedroom house, a beautiful house, for $1,000 per month,” she says. “There are desperate people that are going to fall for that.”
The Cobourg Police Service is seeking missing person 15-year-old Mia Beer, as there is concern for her well being.
Update
Mia Beer was located with two hours of being reported missing on September 13, 2019.
She was last seen in the area of Cobourg Collegiate Institute at 335 King Street East in Cobourg at approximately 10:45 a.m. on Friday (September 13).
Beer is approximately 92 lbs., 5″2 tall, Caucasian, with brown wavy shoulder-length hair. She was last seen wearing light blue ripped jeans, and yellow tank top with maroon sweater, and running shoes.
If anyone knows of her whereabouts, contact the Cobourg Police immediately at 905-372-6821.
Iconic Canadian rock band Lighthouse is performing at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough on October 10, 2019 as part of the band's 50th anniversary tour. Front row: Paul Hoffert, Doug Moore, Dan Clancy, Ralph Cole, and Don Paulton; middle row: Jamie Prokop (son of founding member Skip Prokop); back row: Russ Little, Chris Howells, Simon Wallis, and Steve Kennedy. (Photo courtesy of Hoffert Communications)
The ultimate Canadian rock music success story would have never been written had Paul Hoffert and Skip Prokop hopped aboard different flights in 1968 for their return home to Toronto from New York City.
Showplace Presents Lighthouse – 50th Anniversary Tour
When: Thursday, October 10, 2019 at 7 p.m. Where: Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough) How much: $43
Advance tickets are available in person at the Showplace box office, by phone at 705-742-7469, and online.
Hoffert was in The Big Apple for an off-Broadway show he had composed music for. Prokop, meanwhile, was playing a gig with his band The Paupers.
“I was in the audience and, at intermission, he (Prokop) actually recognized me and said hello,” recalls Hoffert, noting Prokop made the connection from seeing Hoffert perform in Toronto jazz clubs.
“The next morning he happened to be sitting next to me on an Air Canada flight back to Toronto. He was leaving The Paupers.”
“He was going to be putting together Janis Joplin’s new band, but was having some problems with the personnel. He wasn’t sure if it was going to work out. So he told me about this idea he had for a band with horns and strings.”
Lighthouse in a 1972 promotional photo. Seated front from left: Larry Smith, Skip Prokop, Dick Armin, Paul Hoffert, and Ralph Cole; standing rear from left: Don diNovo, John Naslen, Bob McBride, and Howard Shore. (Photo: John Rowlands)
On Thursday, October 10th at Showplace Performance Centre, Lighthouse will take to the stage for its 50th anniversary tour — an astounding half-century after the ‘fusion’ band made its performance debut.
Prokop’s idea was clearly a sound one.
“We chatted about the fact that The Beatles had to stop touring because all the records they were making had piccolo trumpets and symphony orchestras and everything, and they could not replicate what they had on their albums when they toured,” says Hoffert who, 50 years on, is still with the band as its keyboardist.
“We thought wouldn’t it be great if you had a band that had all the musical assets, all the musical resources, to do those fun kind of arrangements in the studio, and then go out and play that music just the way you recorded it?”
Lighthouse founding members Paul Hoffert and Skip Prokop with manager Vinnie Fuscoe at Expo ’70 Japan. (Photo courtesy of Hoffert Communications)
The course set, Hoffert and Prokop brought together top-flight musician friends, recorded a demo, and took it to New York City where the band was signed by MGM Records — the combination of a rock rhythm section combined with jazz horns and classical strings clearly worth exploring.
“We had a big American record deal before we actually had a band,” laughs Hoffert, adding, “We just had an idea and a bunch of guys who were in the studio and recorded some tunes.”
With manager Vinnie Fusco in the mix — he overturned the MGM deal and signed Lighthouse to RCA Victor — the 13-member band featuring Hoffert on the keyboard and Prokop on drums and lead vocals took to the stage at The Rockpile in Toronto on May 14, 1969.
Lighthouse founding members Skip Prokop (centre) and Paul Hoffert (right) with jazz legend Duke Ellington in the Green Room before the first Lighthouse concert at The Rockpile in Toronto on May 14, 1969. The Duke introduced the band, starting with “I’m beginning to see the Light … house”. (Photo courtesy of Hoffert Communications)
“Duke Ellington was performing with his orchestra in Toronto,” recounts Hoffert. “His promo guy offered him a limo to take him to airport after his show. Along the way he said ‘We have to make a stop. There’s this really great band. You’ll really like them.'”
“Skip and I were in the dressing room and in walks Duke Ellington. He said ‘I don’t have much time. Can I introduce you guys?’ and we said ‘Uh, ya.'”
To promote the band, manager Fusco went hard at it, singing the praises of Lighthouse’s unique orchestral rock sound. He secured the band big-time gigs, including appearances at Carnegie Hall, and the Monterey and Newport jazz festivals. A free concert at Toronto City Hall drew an estimated 25,000 people. Word was spreading and fast.
Lighthouse turned down an invitation to perform at Woodstock in 1969, but the following year they played the even bigger Isle of Wight Festival in England, sharing the stage with the likes of Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, The Who, The Moody Blues, Joni Mitchell, and many more. From left: Keith Jollimore, Howard Shore, Pete Pantaluk, Bruce Cassidy, Larry Smith, Paul Hoffert, Bob McBride, manager Vinnie Fusco standing at back, Louis Yachnin, Skip Prokop, Ralph Cole, Don DiNovo, Paul Armin, and Dick Armin. (Photo courtesy of Hoffert Communications)
“Rock ‘n’ roll music was transitioning from the early Elvis Presley kind of rock-a-billy stuff to what we now called classic rock ‘n’ roll with a heavier rhythm section,” says Hoffert. “Young people all over North America were loving that kind of music and getting into it.”
“But in high school, which is where a lot of people develop their musical tastes, you have band instruments. You weren’t given electric guitars and basses and stuff to make rock ‘n’ roll music. Everybody was playing in the school band … wind instruments, brass instruments. They couldn’t participate in the rock ‘n’ roll thing because the music that was coming out didn’t have those instruments.”
“There seemed to be a real opportunity to make music that was rock ‘n’ roll but could include those people. That would give us a bigger audience.”
VIDEO: “One Fine Morning” – Lighthouse (Massey Hall, 1972)
Lighthouse did just that and that audience indeed grew. The band’s first three albums — Lighthouse, Suite Feeling, and Peacing It All Together — sold well enough, but 1971’s One Fine Morning and Thoughts Of Movin’ On took Lighthouse into a different stratosphere. Both albums were certified platinum and, in One Fine Morning, the band had its highest internationally charting single to date to go along with the top 10 placing of “Hats Off To The Stranger” from the same album.
A year later, Sunny Days, with its title track single, kept the momentum going. A string of subsequent singles, such as “Pretty Lady”, cemented the band’s place in Canadian rock music history.
“Our first three albums were not very successful commercially because they featured more of jazz solos and stuff … the songs were like four to six minutes long,” says Hoffert.
“Top 40 radio played songs that were two and a half minutes long. Our shortest song was four to five minutes long. We couldn’t get airplay. The one thing we changed, that all of those hit songs had in common, was that was they fit the AM radio stations’ format and had a lot more featured vocals than long instrumentals. Of those four, there was one rogue, One Fine Morning, which was four and a half minutes long. It didn’t hit number one but it got into the top ten.”
Industry accolades in those early years were many and significant, including Best Canadian Group of Year honours at the 1972, 1973, and 1974 Juno Awards.
VIDEO: “Take It Slow” – Lighthouse (circa 1972)
Citing a “friendly rivalry” between Lighthouse and equally horn-heavy bands Blood, Sweat and Tears and Chicago, Hoffert says Lighthouse stood apart due to its infusion of strings as an integral part of its sound.
According to Hoffert, Lighthouse’s current members, with just two exceptions, have been with the band at least 28 years. Prokop died in August 2017 — his son Jamie is the current drummer. Former lead vocalist Bob McBride, who won a Juno Award in 1973 for Outstanding Male Performance, passed in 1998.
Other band members have come and gone, others have also passed, but the band’s trademark sound remains as fresh as the day it first sprang forth.
Paul Hoffert, Bob McBride (standing), Skip Prokop, and engineer Phil Sheridan at Thunder Sound Recording Studio circa 1972. McBride passed away in 1998, and Prokop passed away in 2017. (Photo: John Rowlands)
As for Lighthouse’s longevity, Hoffert says the band’s culture has proven to be the tie that binds. And then there’s this thing called respect.
“A band is kind of like a family … you’re going to have fall-outs or disagreements,” he points out. “The only way to stop that is to have musical respect for each other. We’ve never lost that.”
“We’ve never had a disagreement on the musical direction because those discussions are never about ‘Why can’t I have the solo?’ It’s ‘What’s going to work best for the band?’ We’ve always been able to have a good consensus. That’s been key to keeping the band together and keeping the really great musicians that we have.”
Along with being a musician, Lighthouse founding member Paul Hoffert is a bestselling author, accomplished media music composer, university professor, and recipient of the Order of Canada. (Photo courtesy of Hoffert Communications)
On a personal level, Hoffert, at age 75, hasn’t lost his passion for playing live and, in particular, playing with his “family”. A bestselling author, accomplished media music composer, and university professor, the 2004 Order of Canada recipient has had but one focus the last 10 years: playing music, be it with Lighthouse or his jazz group.
“The first time I thought I would retire was when Lighthouse split up many years ago. I thought ‘Okay, I have a little bit of money. I have a hobby … ten tropical fish tanks.’ After two weeks, I was totally bored and I started doing other things.”
“It’s not who I am to not be inquisitive and curious. Through all the various seemingly unrelated things that I’ve done, the thread that has run through it all is I have a very inquisitive mind. I like to do new things. I like innovation. I like to break new ground.”
The Lighthouse family spans the generations: Lighthouse co-founder and original drummer Skip Prokop (left) passed away in 2017; his son Jamie Prokop is now the band’s drummer. (Photos courtesy of Hoffert Communications)
“I think of my life as I’m riding on a train that has a lot of stops,” Hoffert adds. “Sometimes you get off at a station to see what might be there. Very frequently you’ll open some doors and behind those doors are things you think you can be passionate about. Find those things you have passion for, and spend as much time as you can doing them.”
Fifty years after breaking new ground with his friend and longtime bandmate Brokop, Hoffert’s passion for stepping on stage and taking up his oh-so-familiar perch behind his keyboard hasn’t lessened in the least.
VIDEO: “Sunny Days” – Lighthouse (2012)
“We take pride in the quality of the music. We like it when people come back stage and say ‘Oh my goodness, you guys are so tight. You sound like you’ve been playing together a long time.’ Well, we have.”
Lighthouse performs at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough) at 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 10th. Tickets are $43 and are available in person at the Showplace box office, by phone at 705-742-7469, and online.
Local blues singer Jane Archer, pictured here with Brandon Humphrey at the "Love for Lydia" benefit concert at Showplace Performance Centre in 2015, performs with her band The Heart of Blues (Liam Archer, Brandon Humphrey, Tony Silvestri, and Andy Pryde) at the Black Horse in downtown Peterborough on Friday, September 13th. (Photo: Linda McIlwain / kawarthaNOW.com)
Every Thursday, we publish live music and performance events at pubs and clubs in Peterborough and The Kawarthas based on information that venues provide to us directly or post on their website or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, September 12 to Wednesday, September 18.
If you’re a pub or club owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, please email our Nightlife Editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com.
Saturday, October 12 9pm - James Clayton w/ Mary-Kate Edwards ($10)
Saturday, November 16 8-10pm - Emily Burgess & The Emburys "Never-Ending Fling" album release ($15 at door only)
Hot Belly Mama's
378 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 745-3544
Thursday, September 12
6-8pm - Live music
Coming Soon
Wednesday, September 23 7-10pm - Black Suit Devil
Junction Nightclub
253 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-0550
Friday, September 13
10pm - Nothing But the 90s hosted by DJ Bill Porter (no cover)
Coming Soon
Thursday, September 19 10pm - Wejam Ptbo, Peterborough Pride, & TCSA presents One Jungle ft house music by DJs Teebs, Shadlesky and Cody Mc ($5 in advance at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4332090, $10 at door)
Lock 27 Tap and Grill
2824 River Ave., Youngs Point
705-652-6000
Coming Soon
Saturday, September 28 2-6pm - Closing Season Party ft Ryan/Williams
Marley's Bar & Grill
17 Fire Route 82 Catalina Bay, Buckhorn
(705) 868-2545
Saturday, September 14
7pm - Sonny and Cloudy's final show
McGillicafey's Pub & Eatery
13 Bridge St.. N., Hastings
(705) 696-3600
Coming Soon
Friday, September 27 8pm - Cindy & Scott
McThirsty's Pint
166 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 743-2220
Thursdays
9pm - Live music hosted by Tony Silvestri and Greg Caven
Fridays
10pm - Live music with Brian Haddlesey
Saturdays
10pm - Live music with Brian Haddlesey
Sundays
8pm - Open stage hosted by Ryan Van Loon
Mondays
9:30pm - Trivia Night hosted by Cam Green
Wednesdays
9pm - Live music hosted by Kevin Foster
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Moody's Bar & Grill
3 Tupper St., Millbrook
(705) 932-6663
Coming Soon
Thursday, September 19 8pm - Weber Brothers Productions presents September Songwriters Sampler ft Tony Silvestri, Lance Isaacs, Tom Eastland (no cover, donations to musicians appreciated)
Saturday, September 21 2-5pm - Jazz, Pop and Soul ft Carin Redman w/ Rob Phillips, Howard Baer, and Curtis Conkwright (no cover, donations to musicians appreciated)
Murphy's Lockside Pub & Patio
3 May St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-1100
Tuesday, September 17
7-10pm - Halfway to St. Patrick's Day ft North Country Express & Jason Lynn
Next Door
197 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(647) 270-9609
Friday, September 13
9pm - Sly Violet
Coming Soon
Friday, September 20 9pm - Dylan Ireland
Oasis Bar & Grill
31 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-6634
Sundays
5:30pm - PHLO
Pappas Billiards
407 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 742-9010
Thursdays
7-10pm - Open Mic
Saturdays
1-3pm - Shipwrecked Saturdays w/ Jacques Graveline
Publican House Brewery
300 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 874-5743
Friday, September 13
6-9pm - Joe Bulger
Saturday, September 14
6-9pm - Rob Phillips
Sunday, September 15
3-6pm - Ace and The Kid
Coming Soon
Friday, September 20 6-9pm - Shai Peer
Saturday, September 21 6-9pm - House Brand
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
(705) 741-1078
Friday, September 13
7:30pm - Rod MacDonald, Dave Clark, Andy McDonald, Denton McConnell
Red Dog Tavern
189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 741-6400
Friday, September 13
10pm - Ian Kurz and friends (no cover)
Tuesday, September 17
9pm - Open mic
Coming Soon
Thursday, September 19 8pm - The Weber Brothers WE Thursdays Concert Series ft Nigel Wearne ($10); 10:30pm - Five Alarm Funk ($15, advance tickets at www.ticketscene.ca/events/25389/)
7:30-11pm - Peterborough Poetry Slam Pride Spoken Word Spectacular Double Feature and Open Mic ft Wes Ryan and Dixie Que
Sideways Bar & Grill
18-22 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 947-2333
Coming Soon
Friday, October 18 8:30pm - Ken Tizzard and Music For Goats
The Social
295 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 874-6724
Thursday, September 12
8pm - Yuk Yuk's Stand Up Comedy Series ft Jeff Paul, Marito Lopez, Jarrett Campbell ($10, $5 with student card)
Southside Pizzeria
25 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough
(705) 748-6120
Coming Soon
Saturday, October 26 9pm - In The Act Of Violence, After Sin, Price To Die & Doug Helle ($10 at door)
The Thirsty Goose
63 Walton St., Port Hope
Thursday, September 12
7pm - Bruce Longman
Friday, September 13
8pm - Cindy & Scott
Saturday, September 14
8pm - Steve O'Donoghue
The Twisted Wheel
379 Water St., Peterborough
Friday, September 13
9:30pm - Garbageface, Light Organ, Human Music Team, DJ Molly Millions ($10)
Sunday, September 15
9pm - Movie Night ft "Beetlejuice" (1988)
Wednesday, September 18
10pm - Karaoke w/ Cheyenne and friends
Coming Soon
Friday, October 4 2-5pm - Town Brewery Presents: Niall, Tijuana Jesus & The Effens ($10 at door)
The Venue
286 George Street North, Peterborough
(705) 876-0008
Saturday, September 14
6pm - PTBOStrong presents Warming Room benefit ft zumba and salsa dancing, Wes Ryan and Jon Hedderwick, Alphabreff, Kerry Jayne, Hillary Dumoulin, Tonya Bosch Band (by donation at door)
kawarthaNOW.com offers two enews options to help readers stay in the know. Our VIP enews is delivered weekly every Wednesday morning and includes exclusive giveaways, and our news digest is delivered daily every morning. You can subscribe to one or both.
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