Buffy Molleson with her children Ocean, 8, and Ashton, 9. The Molleson family has been selected as the first family to own one of two homes that Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region is building in Bobcaygeon this spring. (Supplied photo)
The Molleson family of Bobcaygeon will be moving into a brand new home later this year, thanks to Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region.
Buffy Molleson, along with her nine-year-old son Ashton and eight-year-old daughter Ocean, has been selected to own one of two homes Habitat for Humanity is building in Bobcaygeon this spring.
“I have always wanted to own my own home,” Buffy says. “I just never had what was needed to get a mortgage.”
As well as the financial challenges in finding a safe and affordable home, Buffy’s son Ashton has autism and developmental delays. The family’s current apartment is not accessible enough to meet his needs.
Not only will their new Habitat home be safe and affordable, it will include the necessary accessibility accommodations to meet Ashton’s needs.
“I have always wanted stability for my children,” Buffy says. “They have never had a backyard to play in. They have never been able to invite friends over. They have never had a birthday party at home.”
To qualify for Habitat for Humanity’s home ownership program, a family must demonstrate a need for affordable housing, express willingness to partner with Habitat, and demonstrate the ability to make monthly mortgage payments on their home.
A family must also agree to invest 500 “sweat equity” hours in their new home, and attend workshops on financial management and home maintenance to ensure they have the proper knowledge and skills to become successful long-term homeowners.
In exchange, Habitat for Humanity not only helps build the home, but provides a zero-interest geared-to-income mortgage, with no down payment required.
“Habitat offers families a hand-up, not a hand-out,” says Christina Skuce, director of philanthropy and communications with Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region. “Monthly mortgage payments are set at 25 per cent of a family’s gross income and go towards helping Habitat build more affordable housing.”
Habitat for Humanity relies on volunteer help to supply the labour to build homes, and community fundraising to offset the expense of materials, services, and land not provided through donations. Revenue from Habitat ReStores completely covers Habitat’s administration and revenue costs, so all donations go towards the building of the homes.
To volunteer or to donate, visit habitatpeterborough.ca. If you want, you can designate your donation to go towards a specific build, including the one in Bobcaygeon.
The two new homes will be ready for occupancy at 168 East Street North in Bobcaygeon in fall 2019. Habitat is searching for a second family for the second home to be built in Bobcaygeon, and is still accepting applications.
As for Buffy, she is excited to know that while her kids are watching their new home being built, they’ll also be watching the community come together.
“I am overwhelmed with appreciation and I am deeply grateful for this chance to better the lives of myself and my children,” she says.
Although there’s snow on the ground and it’s still kind of chilly, spring officially arrives today (Wednesday, March 20) at 5:58 p.m.
That’s the moment when the earth’s axis is perpendicular to the sun, so the sun’s rays shine directly on the equator — also known as the spring or vernal equinox.
From now on, the northern hemisphere will increasingly tilt towards the sun, and we’ll begin to get more hours of daylight than night.
There’s an equinox in the spring and another in the fall, the difference being whether the sun’s rays are crossing the equator into the northern hemisphere (spring) or into the southern hemisphere (fall).
Spring arrives in the northern hemisphere when the equator passes the centre of the sun’s disk and the earth’s axis is perpendicular to the sun. Daylight hours begin to increase until June, as the northern hemisphere increasingly tilts towards the sun. (Photo: NASA)
The word equinox comes from the Latin words for “equal” and “night”, but it doesn’t mean there are actually equal hours of day and night.
At sunrise and sunset, it’s still light even though the centre of the sun’s disk is below the horizon … so there are always a few more minutes of daylight than night on vernal equinox.
Daylight hours will continue to increase until the summer solstice — the longest day of the year and the official beginning of summer — which occurs this year on Friday, June 21 at 11:54 a.m.
Spring is celebrated with festivals around the world, including Holi (“festival of colours”) in India, the Chinese New Year, and Passover and Easter in western culture.
The next milestone of spring is Easter. This year, Easter Sunday falls on April 21st.
Easter began as a pagan festival in the celebrating the return of life in the northern hemisphere. After the advent of Christianity, it became associated with the resurrection of Christ. However, remnants of Easter’s pagan roots can be seen in the eggs and rabbits we associated with Easter — symbols of fertility.
We still almost another month to wait for Easter though. This year, Easter Sunday falls on April 21st. Generally, Easter is observed on the Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox.
Located 15 minutes north of Peterborough, the Village of Lakefield has a charming small-town feel with many of the amenities of big-city life, including eclectic boutique shops and salons along Queen Street (pictured). The village also has a rich cultural heritage, with some of Lakefield's most famous residents including Samuel Strickland, Catharine Parr Traill, Susanna Moodie, and Margaret Laurence. (Photo: Wikipedia)
Located south of Katchewanooka Lake on both sides of the Otonabee River on the Trent-Severn Waterway, the Village of Lakefield offers many of the amenities of big-city life in a quaint small-town setting with a rich cultural heritage.
Dubbed the gateway to cottage country in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, Lakefield’s history dates back to the early 19th century. The village was originally founded by Colonel Samuel Strickland (brother of the iconic 19th-century writers Catharine Parr Traill and Susanna Moodie) when he settled in the area in 1831. Before becoming known as Lakefield, the village was previously called Nelson’s, Herriot’s Falls, and then Selby.
This is part three of a three-part series on Canadian getaways in Peterborough & The Kawarthas.
Originally sustained by the saw mill industry, Lakefield is now a prosperous residential community supported by small business, especially retail and tourism, along with international companies including SGS Research and Savage Arms.
A 15-minute drive north of Peterborough, a two-hour drive from Toronto, and a three-hour drive Ottawa, Lakefield’s historic homes and heritage sites, vibrant downtown, and close proximity to many local attractions make it an ideal destination for your next Canadian getaway.
What to Do
Browse the charming boutique shops of Queen Street
Lakefield is known for its picturesque main street featuring many charming boutique shops that offer everything from fashion to yarn to gifts to gourmet chocolate.
Here are just five shops to explore, all within easy walking distance of each other.
Happenstance Books & Yarn (44 Queen St., 705-652-7535) has a unique combination of fiction and non-fiction books for all ages, and the finest in knitting and crochet yarns for whatever project you have in mind. Open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Happenstance Books & Yarn at 44 Queen Street in a painting by Lakefield artist Marilyn Goslin. (Photo: Happenstance Books & Yarn / Facebook)
The Chocolate Rabbit (11 Queen St., 705-652-8884) offers delicious handcrafted chocolate, free of preservatives and artificial ingredients, with all chocolate made daily on the premises (you can watch it being made). Make sure to also check out the variety of loose-leaf organic teas, including herbal, fruit, green, and black teas, as well as a wide range of tea accessories. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.
The Chocolate Rabbit at 11 Queen Street. (Photo: The Chocolate Rabbit)
Celtic Connection (25 Queen St,, 705-651-2012) celebrates the best of Celtic culture with handpicked apparel, gemstone jewellery, books on Celtic lore, and much more. Owner Mary McGillis also organizes the annual Fairy and Dragon Festival in June. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Celtic Connection at 25 Queen Street. (Photo: Celtic Connection)
Tragically Hipp Fashion Gallery (60 Queen St., 705-652-0666) is a boutique fashion shop offering affordable, everyday apparel and accessories for women who see themselves as unique and authentic. Make sure to check out their first-ever spring fashion show on April 11th at The Village Inn in Lakefield. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday (closed on Sunday).
The Stuff Store (49 Queen St., 705-651-4411) is a quirky and fun gift store offering home decor and housewares, toys, socks and slippers, games and puzzles, and pretty much all the other stuff you can imagine. You can even purchase a bottle of handmade “Woosta” (Stuff’s own Worcestershire sauce). Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Just a few of the unique gifts available at The Stuff Store at 49 Queen Street. (Photo: Stuff)
Pamper yourself with a pedicure or even a full spa day
After you finish shopping downtown, indulge yourself with a makeover at one of Lakefield’s two full-service salons and spas conveniently located on Queen Street.
Salon Sorella and Day Spa (42 Queen St., 705-652-0100) offers a range of salon services (including hair cutting, styling, colouring, tinting, and specialty services) and as spa services (including hand and foot care, waxing, massage, nail enhancement, makeup, skin treatment, and more). Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday).
Salon Sorella and Day Spa at 42 Queen Street. (Photo: Salon Sorella & Day Spa)
Sunshrine Day Spa & Salon (21 Queen St., 705-652–0155) offers hair styling and colouring as well as bridal services, body treatments, skin therapies, hand and foot care, hair removal, makeup, ear piercings, and more. Sunshrine also offers salon and spa services for men and kids too. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday (closed on Sunday).
Sunshrine Day Spa & Salon at 21 Queen Street. (Photo: Sunshrine Day Spa & Salon)
Throw a pot or two at The English Potter
Gail West moved to Canada from the United Kingdom in 2000 shortly after attaining her diploma for design studio ceramics, and eventually opened The English Potter (15 Burnham St., 705-957-4245), located just off of Queen Street.
The pottery studio not only displays Gail’s collection of her whimsical handmade pottery that you can purchase, but Gail also offers pottery and clay sculpture classes for all ages.
The English Potter offers pottery classes for all ages. (Photo: The English Potter)
Whether you’re a beginner who’s just getting started with pottery, or a serious hobbyist looking to refine your skills, Gail has a class suited to your individual needs.
The English Potter is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For class availability, call Gail or visit her website at www.englishpotter.com.
Walk the Lakefield Trail and take in some bird-watching
The Lakefield Trail. (Photo: Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism)
The Lakefield Trail is a 5.5 kilometre trail that meanders through the Village of Lakefield and connects to the Trans Canada Trail via the Peterborough County Rotary Trail (yes, you can walk all the way to Peterborough on the trail if you want).
All sections of the multi-use trail are fully accessible, with historical interpretive signs along the trail telling the story of Lakefield’s notable literary past and canoe-building heritage.
On the west side of the Otonabee River, as the trail follows the southern tip of Katchewanooka Lake, you can visit the Imagine the Marsh Conservation Area, where Doug Sadler Viewing Tower offers bird watchers an ideal lookout over the vast marshland area.
Make sweet memories at Maplefest
Try your hand at tapping a maple tree at McLean Berry Farm Maplefest on weekends in March. There are lots of fun activities for the entire family and, of course, maple syrup! (Photo: Michael Hurcomb)
What better way to shake off winter and get into the sweet spirit of springtime than with maple syrup?
On weekends in March, McLean Berry Farm (2191 16th Line, Lakefield) hosts Maplefest. This is a great event for the whole family, featuring wagon rides, pancakes with fresh maple syrup, farm animals, live music by local performers, visits to the sugar shack, tapping a maple tree, making maple toffee in the snow, and so much more.
Maplefest takes place at McLean Berry Farm (a 10-minute drive north of the Village of Lakefield) on March 16th and 17th, 23rd and 24th, and 30th and 31st from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $8 per person (toddlers under 24 months are free) or $30 for a family of four, and includes a hay ride. You can enjoy a pancake breakfast for an additional $7.99 (small) or $9.99 (large).
19th-century writer Catharine Parr Traill at “Westove”, her home in Lakefield from 1860 until her death in 1899. (Photo: Traill Family Collection, National Archives of Canada)
The Village of Lakefield has a rich literary heritage, with two of Canada’s most important 19th-century writers — sisters Catharine Parr Traill and Susanna Moodie — having lived in the area, as well as one of Canada’s most esteemed and beloved writers, the novelist and short-story writer Margaret Laurence.
Born in England almost two years apart, Susanna and Catharine Parr Strickland eventually married, respectively, John Moodie and Thomas Traill. In 1832, both families emigrated to Canada where they settled on adjacent bush farms along the eastern shore of Lake Katchewanooka just north of Lakefield, with the help of their brother Samuel Strickland.
Their experiences as pioneers led to Catharine Parr Traill’s book The Backwoods of Canada (1836) and Susanna Moodie’s book Roughing It in the Bush (1852).
Installation of a plaque at “Westove” in October 1958. Among the attendees were Anne Traill and Anne Atwood, grand-daughters of Catharine Parr Traill, and (second from left) Robertson Davies. (Photo: Traill Family Collection, National Archives of Canada)
In 1840, Susanna Moodie and her husband moved to Belleville, but she returned to the Lakefield area for a month each summer to visit her sister.
A historical plaque near the farm of Susanna Moodie in Douro. (Photo: Douro Historical Committee)
The prior year, the Traills sold their farm and then lived at various locations in Peterborough County until Thomas Traill died in 1859. Following her husband’s death, Catharine had a cottage built in Lakefield with the help of her brother Samuel.
She called it “Westove”, after her husband’s home in the Orkney Islands in Scotland. Except for short absences to visit family and friends, it was Catharine’s home from 1860 until her death in 1899.
Located at 16 Smith Street in Lakefield, it is now a private residence with a historical plaque located beside the home.
One of Canada’s most esteemed literary figures, Margaret Laurence, spent the last 13 years of her life in Lakefield. She is best known for her iconic books The Stone Angel (1964), A Jest of God (1966), and The Diviners (1974).
Called the “First Lady of Lakefield”, Laurence lived at 8 Regent Street in Lakefield from 1974 until her death there in 1987. She also had a cottage on the Otonabee River near Peterborough, where she wrote The Diviners during the summers of 1971 to 1973.
One of Canada’s most respected and beloved authors, Margaret Laurence lived in Lakefield from 1974 until her death in 1987. Here she is pictured on her 60th birthday, five months before her death. (Photo: David Laurence)
Laurence’s Lakefield home is located near Christ Church (62 Queen St.), a small stone church built in 1853 under the leadership of Samuel Strickland. It now houses the Christ Church Community Museum, which displays important historical artifacts and displays including the Strickland family history and information about Susanna Moodie, Catharine Parr Traill, Margaret Laurence, and 19th-century writer and poet Isabella Valancy Crawford, who also lived in Lakefield.
Christ Church Community Museum is only open to the public in the summer, when Lakefield also hosts the annual Lakefield Literary Festival. The 25th anniversary festival takes place in 2019 from July 13th to 14th.
Where To Stay
The Village Inn
The Village Inn at 39 Queen Street. (Photo: The Village Inn)
Located at 39 Queen Street, The Village Inn is an award-winning boutique-style hotel offering modern amenities in an atmosphere of country charm.
With 26 rooms and two luxury suites, its central location in the heart of downtown makes The Village Inn the perfect place to stay as you explore everything Lakefield has to offer. Continental breakfast is included with your stay.
The Village Inn has recently renovated most of its rooms, just in time for its 15th anniversary in 2019. During March and April, you can book one night and receive a 10 per cent discount, or book two nights or more and receive a 20 per cent discount.
For reservations, call 705-652-1910 or toll free at 1-800-827-5678. For more information, email info@villageinn.ca or visit www.villageinn.ca.
Wee Butt ‘n’ Ben
Wee Butt ‘n’ Ben at 58 Bridge Street. (Photo: Wee Butt ‘n’ Ben)
If you’re looking for a Scottish bed-and-breakfast experience, you’ll want to stay at the historic Wee Butt ‘n’ Ben, located at 58 Bridge Street.
Operated by Sadie Baillie and Jimmy Smith, Wee Butt ‘n’ Ben offers three comfortable bedrooms — named Heather, Rose, and Bracken — as well as a first-rate Scottish breakfast to get your day off to a hearty start.
All rooms feature queen-size beds, chairs, lamps, and clocks. A separate full washroom, and a one-and-a-half-piece washroom, are shared by the three rooms.
Canoe & Paddle Pub at 18 Bridge Street. (Photo: TripAdvisor)
For a classic English pub experience, check out the Canoe & Paddle Pub (18 Bridge St.).
A favourite with locals, the Canoe & Paddle offers classic English pub fare (including Yorkshire pudding, toad-in-the-hole, bangers and mash, beer-bttered fish and chips) and 14 craft beers on tap, along with bottled beer, wines, and cocktails.
There’s also live music featuring local performers two or three nights a week.
The Canoe & Paddle is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday to Wednesday and Sunday, and 11 a.m. to midnight Thursday to Saturday.
The Nutty Bean Cafe at 33 Queen Street. (Photo: The Nutty Bean Cafe)
For breakfast or a quick lunch, stop by The Nutty Bean Cafe (33 Queen St.), another favourite with the locals.
The Nutty Bean offers fresh-baked scones, muffins, cookies and butter tarts in the morning and a selection of sandwiches with house-made soup and market salads throughout the day, with organic fair-trade and shade-grown coffee available by the cup or beans by the bag.
The Nutty Bean supports local suppliers, purchasing from local farmers, cheesemakers, and butchers whenever possible.
The Nutty Bean Cafe is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday (closed Mondays). For more information, call 705-652-9721, email cafe@thenuttybeancafe.com, or visit thenuttybeancafe.com.
Juno award-winning indigenous DJ crew A Tribe Called Red (Ehren "Bear Witness" Thomas and Tim "2oolman" Hill) will be performing a free concert at the newly named Peterborough Subaru main stage at Nicholls Oval Park on Saturday, August 17th as part of the 2019 Peterborough Folk Festival. (Photo: Matt Barnes Photography)
Some exciting changes are in store for the 30th anniversary of the Peterborough Folk Festival this summer.
Festival board chair Malcolm Byard and vice-chair and artistic director Ryan Kemp made several announcements today (March 19) at Peterborough Subaru’s showroom on Chemong Road, the first being that the volunteer-run festival is now being sponsored by Peterborough Subaru.
Peterborough Subaru is contributing $10,000 to this year’s festival. In exchange, the festival’s main stage at Nicholls Oval Park will be known as the “Peterborough Subaru Stage” in 2019.
Peterborough Folk Festival board vice chair and artistic director Ryan Kemp (right) announces a partnership with Peterborough Subaru at the car dealership’s showroom on Chemong Road on March 19, 2019. Peterborough Subaru is sponsoring the 2019 Peterborough Folk Festival, which takes place for four days from August 15th to 18th. The main stage at Nicholls Oval Park in East City will be called the “Peterborough Subaru Stage”. Also pictured are Peterborough Subaru sales and marketing specialist Phillip Jolicoeur (left) and Peterborough Folk Festival board chair Malcolm Byard. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
“Peterborough Subaru is excited to be in partnership with the Peterborough Folk Festival,” says Phillip Jolicoeur, sales and marketing specialist at Peterborough Subaru. “We are honoured to be celebrating our 35th anniversary servicing the Peterborough community, and showing our appreciation by supporting an incredible diverse music festival for our community in its 30th year.”
In addition to the new partnership with Peterborough Subaru, Kemp and Byard announced the City of Peterborough has recommended the festival receive annual funding under the city’s Service Grant program — a move the city had rejected in previous years.
Peterborough Folk Festival board chair Malcolm Byard (left) and vice chair and artistic director Ryan Kemp (right) with Phillip Jolicoeur, sales and marketing specialist at Peterborough Subaru, during the announcement on March 19, 2019 at the car dealership’s showroom on Chemong Road that Peterborough Subaru is sponsoring the 2019 summer festival. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
Normally, not-for-profit community organizations like the festival have to apply for funding every year under the city’s Community Investment Grants program. In 2018, the festival received $15,000 under that program.
This year, the city has approved the festival being moved to the Service Grant Program. Under that program, the festival will receive $21,450 in 2019 but, more importantly, they don’t need to re-apply for the funds every year — grants are provided annually, which provides the festival with additional financial stability.
“This is huge for the festival as it will signal to provincial and federal granting agencies that the City of Peterborough recognizes the importance of the festival,” Kemp says. “The support from the city has been amazing and this new secured funding will go a long way in the continued success of the festival for years to come.”
Between the new partnership with Peterborough Subaru and the increased city funding, the festival will be expanding to four days in 2019.
As in previous years, there will be a weekend of free concerts at Nicholls Oval Park in East City, set for August 17th and 18th this year. Once again there will be artisans and crafters, food vendors, workshops, a children’s village with kid-oriented activities and performances, and a licensed beer pavilion.
A ticketed kick-off show will take place at the Market Hall on Friday, August 16th. The performer for the ticketed concert has yet to be announced, but Kemp did make two significant performer announcements.
VIDEO: “Stadium Pow Wow” – A Tribe Called Red featuring Black Bear
Ground-breaking indigenous DJ collective A Tribe Called Red (ATCR) will be performing on the Peterborough Subaru main stage at Nicholls Oval Park on Saturday, August 17th, and beloved children’s entertainer and Juno award-winner Fred Penner will return to the festival to perform on the Peterborough Subaru main stage on Saturday, August 18th.
ATCR’s unique sound is a fusion of indigenous, hip hop, and electronic music. They released their self-titled debut album in 2012, which was included in the Washington Post’s list of 10 best pop albums of 2012.
The band garnered mainstream recognition when they became the first indigenous group to win the Breakthrough Group of the Year award at the 2014 Juno Awards.
Tim “2oolman” Hill and Ehren “Bear Witness” Thomas of A Tribe Called Red. (Photo: Timothy Nguyen Photography)
Their 2016 album We Are the Halluci Nation won the Album of the Year at the Canadian Independent Music Awards, and they won Group of the Year at the 2018 Juno Awards.
They last performed in Peterborough in March 2017 at a sold-out show at the Red Dog.
“It’s an honour to have A Tribe Called Red perform this year as we celebrate our 30th anniversary,” Kemp says. “This is definitely going to be a memorable year.”
As part of the 2019 Peterborough Folk Festival, children’s entertainer Fred Penner will perform on the Peterborough Subaru main stage at Nicholls Oval Park on Saturday, August 18th. (Photo: Kendra Hope)
It’s already been a memorable year so far for the festival, having held a successful Peterborough Winter Folk Festival earlier this month, featuring 30 artists over seven days at six venues. On March 25th, the festival presented acclaimed musician Bahamas at Showplace Performance Centre. The stage name for Toronto-based guitarist and songwriter Afie Jurvanen, Bahamas just picked up the 2019 Adult Alternative Album Juno for his latest record Earthtones, which was also nominated for a 2019 Grammy.
A humpback whale feeding off the coast of Cape Town in a scene from "Our Planet", a new Netflix docuseries narrated by Sir David Attenborough. Filmed in 4K in more than 50 countries, it premieres on Netflix Canada on April 5, 2019. (Photo: Netflix)
For the past few months now, Netflix Canada has been dominated by its original series and films and the trend continues in April.
For family viewing, there’s the new docuseries Our Planet (Apr. 5), shot it 4K in more than 50 countries and narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
If you enjoyed the interactive series Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, Netflix is premiering the family-friendly interactive adventure You vs. Wild (Apr. 10), where you make key decisions to help survival instructor Bear Grylls complete his missions in the harshest environments on Earth.
VIDEO: You vs. Wild
There’s also No Good Nick (Apr. 15), where a family finds their lives turned upside down when a young street-smart grifter appears on their doorstep, claiming she’s a distant relative.
Original Netflix films include: Suzzanna: Buried Alive (Apr. 3), about a murdered pregnant woman whose spirit seeks revenge against her increasingly terrified killers; Unicorn Store (Apr. 5), where a twenty-something dreamer receives an invitation that would fulfill her childhood dreams; The Perfect Date (Apr. 12), about a guy who creates an app where anyone can pay him to play the perfect stand-in boyfriend for any occasion; and The Silence (Apr. 12), about a family seeking refuge from terrifying creatures who hunt their prey by sound (A Quiet Place, anyone?).
Original Netflix series premiering in April include: zombie apocalypse thriller Black Summer (Apr. 11); Huge in France (Apr. 12), about a French comedian who moves to LA to be with his son and must learn to live without the celebrity perks he was accustomed to in France; Special (Apr. 12), about a young gay man with mild cerebral palsy who decides to go after the live he wants; and Street Food (Apr. 26), which explores the rich culture of street food around the world.
VIDEO: Black Summer
Returning Netflix series include season three of Star (Apr. 4), Chilling Adventures of Sabrina: Part 2 (Apr. 5), season eight of Spirit Riding Free (Apr. 5), “Caligula: The Mad Emperor”, season three of Roman Empire (Apr. 5), season six of Trolls: The Beat Goes On! (Apr. 9), season five of Cuckoo (Apr. 19), and season two of The Protector (Apr. 26).
For Hollywood movies, there’s Annie, Boyz n the Hood, Fifty Shades Darker, the 1998 version of Les Misérables, Resident Evil: Extinction, Snatched, and Spirit (all on Apr. 1), Billy Elliot and Hulk (both on Apr. 3), Colette (Apr. 12), Happy Feet Two (Apr. 15), the 1994 version of Little Women (Apr. 28), and the 2017 blockbuster Wonder Woman (Apr. 29).
VIDEO: New to Netflix Canada in April
Here’s the complete list of everything coming to Netflix Canada in April, along with what’s leaving.
Coming in April (no release date specified)
Chambers (Netflix original) – A young heart attack survivor becomes consumed by the mystery surrounding the heart that saved her life. However, the closer she gets to uncovering the truth about her donor’s sudden death, the more she starts taking on the characteristics of the deceased — some of which are troublingly sinister.
Monday, April 1st
ULTRAMAN (Netflix anime) – With aliens once again threatening Earth, young Shinjiro must now don the metallic ultra-suit to become Ultraman — like his father before him.
Annie
Boyz n the Hood
Fifty Shades Darker
Les Misérables (1998)
Memoirs of a Geisha
Monty Python Best Bits (mostly): Season 1
Monty Python: The Meaning of Live
Resident Evil: Extinction
Snatched
Split
Tuesday, April 2nd
Kevin Hart: Irresponsible (Netflix original) – Kevin Hart brings his sold-out comedy tour, Kevin Hart: Irresponsible, to a global audience for his first original Netflix standup special. The one-hour special was filmed in front of a sold-out live audience of over 15,000 people at the O2 Arena in London, England. Hart touches upon his friends, family, travel, … and a year filled with Irresponsible behavior.
Sleepless
Wednesday, April 3rd
Billy Elliot
Hulk
Suzzanna: Buried Alive (Netflix film) – After a pregnant woman is murdered, her spirit seeks revenge against her increasingly terrified killers, who are determined to finish her off for good.
Thursday, April 4th
Pope Francis: A Man of His Word
Star: Season 3
Friday, April 5th
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina: Part 2 (Netflix original) – Part 2 finds Sabrina exploring her darker side, curious to learn more about her heritage, while struggling to maintain her friendships in the mortal world. Romantically, Sabrina is caught in an unholy love triangle with between sexy warlock Nicholas Scratch and salt-of-the-Earth mortal Harvey Kinkle. Meanwhile, The Dark Lord, Madame Satan, and Father Blackwood continue to conjure chaos in the Spellman household and the town of Greendale. And they aren’t the only ones trying to raise hell. Everything is in question…relationships, identity, true intentions…when the devil’s work is at hand.
Our Planet (Netflix original) – Exhilarating visuals and stunning footage of rarely-seen animals mix with somber truths about humanity’s impact on the planet’s habitats and species.
Persona: Collection (Netflix original) – An eclectic exploration of different personas in a collection of four short films directed by critically acclaimed Korean directors.
Roman Empire: Caligula: The Mad Emperor (Netflix original) – Once beloved by the troops and people alike, Caligula shocks Rome by ruling with the cruel depravity and debauchery that make him infamous.
Spirit Riding Free: Season 8 (Netflix original) – Big changes lie ahead for Lucky and her friends in an eventful final season — from new babies at home to a faraway boarding school.
Tijuana (Netflix original) – When a prominent politician is murdered in cold blood, intrepid local journalists risk their lives to uncover the truth.
Unicorn Store (Netflix film) – Kit (Brie Larson), a twenty-something dreamer, receives an invitation that would fulfill her childhood dreams.
Monday, April 8th
The Oath
Tuesday, April 9th
Trolls: The Beat Goes On!: Season 6 (Netflix original) – The trolls face a day without a holiday, Biggie accidentally starts a fun-tastic new dance craze, and Guy turns a camping trip into a “glamping” trip.
Wednesday, April 10th
You vs. Wild (Netflix original) – In this interactive adventure series, you’ll make key decisions to help Bear Grylls survive, thrive and complete missions in the harshest environments on Earth.
Thursday, April 11th
Black Summer (Netflix original) – In the dark, early days of a zombie apocalypse, complete strangers band together to find the strength they need to survive and get back to loved ones.
Friday, April 12th
A Land Imagined (Netflix film) – A cop in Singapore investigates the disappearance of a Chinese migrant construction worker who spent sleepless nights playing a mysterious video game.
Colette
Huge in France (Netflix original) – After moving to LA to reconnect with his son, comedian Gad Elmaleh must learn to live without the celebrity perks he’s accustomed to in France.
Mighty Little Bheem (Netflix original) – An innocent toddler’s boundless curiosity — and extraordinary might — lead to mischief and adventure in his small Indian town.
The Perfect Date (Netflix film) – To save up for college, Brooks Rattigan creates an app where anyone can pay him to play the perfect stand-in boyfriend for any occasion.
The Silence (Netflix film) – When the world is under attack from terrifying creatures who hunt their human prey by sound, 16-year old Ally Andrews (Kiernan Shipka), who lost her hearing at 13, and her family seek refuge in a remote haven. But they discover a sinister cult who are eager to exploit Ally’s heightened senses. The Silence is directed by John R. Leonetti (Annabelle) and stars Stanley Tucci, Kiernan Shipka, Miranda Otto, John Corbett, Kate Trotter and Kyle Breitkopf.
Special (Netflix original) – A young gay man with cerebral palsy branches out from his insular existence in hopes of finally going after the life he wants.
What They Had
Who Would You Take to a Deserted Island? (Netflix film) – On their last night together, four longtime flatmates’ lives are suddenly upended when a secret is revealed during the course of an evening celebration.
Monday, April 15th
Happy Feet Two
Luis Miguel – The Series: Season 1
No Good Nick (Netflix original) – A family finds their lives turned upside down when a young, street-smart grifter appears on their doorstep, claiming she’s a distant relative.
Tuesday, April 16th
Super Monsters Furever Friends (Netflix original) – On the first night of spring, the Super Monsters and their families gather for food, fun and games in the park — and meet their adorable monster pets!
Thursday, April 18th
My First First Love (Netflix original) – Due to various personal reasons, a group of Yun Tae-o’s friends move into his house, where they experience love, friendship, and everything in between.
Friday, April 19th
A Fortunate Man (Netflix film) – A gifted engineer flees his austere roots to pursue wealth and success among Copenhagen’s elite, but the pride propelling him threatens to be his ruin.
Brené Brown: The Call to Courage (Netflix original) – Best-selling author Brené Brown discusses what it takes to choose courage over comfort in a culture defined by scarcity, fear and uncertainty.
Cuckoo: Season 5 (Netflix original) – Ken thinks he’s hit the big time when he discovers a wealthy half sister he never knew he had, but her fortunes and his hopes are soon reversed.
Music Teacher (Netflix film) – Burned by his past, an emotionally troubled, small-town music teacher risks everything he has to reconnect with a now-famous former student.
Rilakkuma and Kaoru (Netflix anime) – Karoru leads a mundane life, but she gets to go home and find comfort in Rilakkuma, her endearingly lazy roommate who happens to be a fuzzy toy bear.
Samantha!: Season 2 (Netflix original) – The series follows the story of a former child star from the 80s, Samantha! (Emanuelle Araújo) who desperately clings to the fringes of celebrity. Together with her husband Wound (Douglas Silva) and their children Cindy (Sabrina Nonato), and Brandon (Cauã Gonçalves), she delights with hare-brained schemes to launch herself back into the spotlight.
Someone Great (Netflix film) – Aspiring music journalist Jenny (Gina Rodriguez) has just landed her dream job at an iconic magazine and is about to move to San Francisco. Rather than do long distance, her boyfriend of nine years (Lakeith Stanfield) decides to call it quits. To nurse her broken heart, Jenny gathers up her two best friends Erin (DeWanda Wise) and Blair (Brittany Snow) for one outrageous last adventure in New York City. From writer/director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson (creator of MTV’s Sweet/Vicious).
Saturday, April 20th
Grass is Greener (Netflix original) – It lit up jazz and hip-hop — and ignited a war on drugs steeped in racial injustice. Experts explore America’s complicated relationship with weed.
Weed the People
Monday, April 22nd
Pinky Malinky: Part 2 (Netflix original) – Pinky Malinky is on a roll! Catch up on this joyful hot dog boy’s continuing adventures as he spreads fun and positivity with best friends Babs and JJ.
Selection Day (Netflix original, new episodes) – Manjunath Kumar, fourteen, knows he is good at cricket — if not as good as his elder brother Radha. He knows that he fears and resents his domineering and cricket-obsessed father, admires his brilliantly talented sibling and is fascinated by the world of CSI and by curious and interesting scientific facts. But there are many things about himself and about the world that he doesn’t know. When Manju begins to get to know Radha’s great rival, a boy as privileged and confident as Manju is not, everything in Manju’s world begins to change and he is faced with decisions that will change both his sense of self and of the world around him.
Tuesday, April 23rd
I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson (Netflix original) – In this new sketch show, Tim Robinson and guests spend each segment driving someone to the point of needing — or desperately wanting — to leave.
Wednesday, April 24th
Bonding (Netflix original) – A New York City grad student moonlighting as a dominatrix enlists her gay BFF from high school to be her assistant.
Friday, April 26th
The Protector: Season 2 (Netflix original) – Facing formidable odds against the resurgent Immortals, Hakan and the Loyal Ones must forestall sinister plans to destroy the city — and all humans.
ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads (Netflix original) – Robert Johnson was one of the most influential blues guitarists ever. Even before his early death, fans wondered if he’d made a pact with the Devil.
She-Ra and the Princesses of Power: Season 2 (Netflix original) – Adora and the Princess Alliance train to get stronger, but Catra and the Horde are on the move. As Hordak pushes for victory, She-Ra faces a new test.
Street Food (Netflix original) – From the creators of Chef’s Table, Street Food takes viewers to some of the world’s most vibrant cities to explore the rich culture of street food all over the globe. The first season explores nine countries in Asia, from the hawker stalls of Singapore to the food carts of India, the stories of perseverance and culture bring life to the cuisine of each city.
Yankee (Netflix original) – A young man from Texas crosses the border into Mexico and becomes an infamous drug lord.
Sunday, April 28th
Little Women (1994)
Monday, April 29th
Burning
Wonder Woman
Tuesday, April 30th
Anthony Jeselnik: Fire in the Maternity Ward (Netflix original) – Everyone knows there is no topic Anthony Jeselnik can’t conquer, and he doesn’t disappoint in his second Netflix original comedy special Anthony Jeselnik: Fire in the Maternity Ward. Following his 2015 special Thoughts and Prayers, the comedian’s critical and biting style weaves through societal taboos without hesitation.
Baki: Part 2 (Netflix anime) – A convict himself, bounty hunter Biscuit Oliva is dispatched to Tokyo to apprehend the escaped inmates and thwart them from unleashing further chaos.
Ingress: The Animation (Netflix anime) – After scientists discover a mysterious substance that can influence human minds, two factions wage an all-out battle to control its awesome power.
Rebecca and Hannah are ready to serve you at '76 Sips, the new beverage bar at the Lansdowne Street location of Joanne's Place Health Foods. The beverage bar opened on March 18, 2019. (Photo: Joanne's Place)
This week’s round-up of regional business news includes the opening of ’76 Sips at Joanne’s Place Health Foods in Peterborough, the nominees for the 2019 Women in Business and Judy Heffernan Awards, the closing of Green Earth stores in Peterborough and Lindsay, the Innovation Cluster Peterborough & The Kawartha eyeing an expansion into Lindsay, Peterborough sending water purification equipment to Brazil, and the extension of the deadline to apply for the ignite100 entrepreneurial competition.
Every week, our managing editor collects business-related news and events from across the Kawarthas. If you’d like us to promote your business news or event in businessNOW, please email business@kawarthanow.com.
Also featured is new ownership for the Golden Wheel Chinese Restaurant in Peterborough, Electric City Vegans offering a plant-based brunch at Dreams of Beans in downtown Peterborough, the opening of a new indoor playground in Peterborough called Kidz Playland, the appointment of entertainment lawyer and television producer Stephen Stohn as chancellor of Trent University, and the announcement of the nominees for the Port Hope Chamber’s Business Excellence Awards.
New regional events added this week include the Peterborough DBIA’s breakfast network meeting with Mayor Diane Therrien on March 20th, the Innovation Cluster’s launch of the H2O Makerspace on March 21st in Peterborough, and the Bears’ Lair entrepreneurial competition semi-finalist showcase on March 26th in Peterborough.
New beverage bar ’76 Sips now open at Joanne’s Place Health Foods in Peterborough
’76 Sips at the Lansdowne Street location of Joanne’s Place Health Foods in Peterborough, which opened on March 18, 2019, offers healthy smoothies along with organic teas, coffee, and baked goods. (Photo: Joanne’s Place)
’76 Sips, the new beverage bar at Joanne’s Place Health Foods (1260 Lansdowne St., Peterborough) officially opened today (March 18).
The beverage bar, which was created after the recent renovation at the Lansdowne Street store, is named after the year that Joanne’s Place was founded (1976). ’76 Sips offers healthy smoothies, organic teas, coffee, and baked goods from Lily’s Kitchen Co. in Omemee.
’76 Sips is also following eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Cups used for hot beverages are biodegradable, and cups used for cold beverages are recyclable. They use paper straws (reusable straws are available for purchase) and do not over-package any products. To encourage people to bring their own reusable cup or mug, Joanne’s Place is offering 50 JP Rewards when you do so.
Nominees announced for 2019 Women in Business and Judy Heffernan Awards
Gwyneth James of Cody & James Chartered Professional Accountants (middle) was named the Business Woman of the Year at the 2016 Peterborough Examiner Women in Business Awards, with Bridget Leslie of My Left Breast (left) and Betty Halman-Plumley of Investors Group (right) as finalists. Now known as the Women in Business Award, the award is being presented in 2019, along with the Judy Heffernan Award, by the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough. (Supplied photo)
The nominees have been announced for the 2019 Women in Business and Judy Heffernan Awards.
The awards will be presented by the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough at a dinner on Tuesday, April 9th at the Personal Touch Banquet Hall (1135 Lansdowne St. W.,).
The nominees for the Women In Business Award are (alphabetically by surname):
Sofie Andreou (Sofie Andreou & Associates)
Karen Auger (BDO Canada)
Rhonda Barnet (Steelworks Design)
Marlaine Bennett (Bennett’s Home Furnishings)
Leslie Bridget (My Left Breast)
Tina Bromley (Tiny Greens Plant Café)
Monika Carmichael (Trent Valley Honda)
Colleen Carruthers (T-R Group)
Darlene Cook (Peterborough Housing Corporation)
Vanessa Dinesen (Dinesen Financial)
Jennifer Garland (The Mane Intent)
Shannon Gray (Sugar Me Right!)
Vanessa Oake Hogan (Century 21 United Realty Brokerage)
Karen Irvine (A Taste of the Kawarthas Magazine)
Jenni Johnston (Art School of Peterborough)
Teresa Kaszuba (The Morning Show on Global Peterborough/CHEX)
Theresa Longo (Theresa Longo Brands.)
Jay Lough Hayes (RE/MAX Rough River Realty Ltd.)
Ann Marie Maly (Bruce Maly Plumbing and Drain Services)
Erin McLean (McLean Berry Farm)
Tracey Ormond (That’s a Wrap Catering)
Louise Racine (Thirteen Moons)
Jennifer Scates (Central Smith Creamery)
Leslie Scott (Walton Wood Farm)
Catia Skinner (Mega Experience)
Martha Sullivan (Sullivan Law Ptbo)
Christine Teixeira (Accountability Financial)
Shelby Leonard Watt (SOS Save Our Soles)
Sheneese Wilkins (Mink Magic Beauty Bar)
The nominees for the Judy Heffernan Award are (alphabetically by surname):
Kim Appleton
Anne Arnold
Rhonda Bernet
Colleen Carruthers
Diana Carter
Susan Dunkley
Michelle Ferreri
Jennifer Garland
Theresa Longo
Tracey Ormond
Grace Reynolds
Peggy Shaughnessy
Jeannine Taylor
Sheneese Wilkins
Tickets for the awards dinner are available at a cost of $65 for WBN members or $75 for non-members (tables are also available). For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.womensbusinessnetwork.net/awards-event/.
Green Earth stores in Peterborough’s Lansdowne Place Mall and Lindsay Square to close
Green Earth stores at Lansdowne Place Mall in Peterborough and Lindsay Square in Lindsay are closing.
Canadian retail has taken yet another hit.
Last Wednesday (March 13), Ontario-based Green Earth announced it is going out of business.
The gift retailer has filed for bankruptcy protection, citing reduced mall traffic and growing online competition as the reasons.
Green Earth has 29 locations in Ontario. In the Kawarthas, Green Earth operates stores at Lansdowne Place Mall in Peterborough and Lindsay Square in Lindsay.
With more than $16 million of inventory, plus fixtures and equipment, liquidation sales are now underway, with discounts of 40 to 80 per cent on all merchandise.
Previous retail operations that have announced closures include Payless Shoesource and Home Outfitters.
Innovation Cluster Peterborough & The Kawartha eyes expansion in Lindsay
Innovation Cluster president & CEO Mike Skinner will be making a presentation to City of Kawartha Lakes council on March 19, 2019, which will include information about the impact of the work of the Innovation Cluster in Kawartha Lakes. (Photo: Innovation Cluster)
Michael Skinner, president and CEO of the Innovation Cluster Peterborough & The Kawarthas, will be making a presentation to City of Kawartha Lakes council at its meeting on Tuesday (March 19).
Skinner will be providing background on the work of the Innovation Cluster along with its economic impact, jobs created, and startup companies supported. He will also be proposing an expansion of the not-for-profit economic development organization into the City of Kawartha Lakes.
“One of these future aspirations would be to work towards having a physical location in the Lindsay area to support multiple startups in an incubation program,” he writes in his deputation request to council.
“We believe by having a physical space in that area will help us to better reach new and current startups growing out of that space. Having this physical location will increase awareness (awareness to residents as well as bring awareness to that the Innovation Cluster supports entrepreneurs in Kawartha Lakes) and ease commuting for entrepreneurs.”
The idea would be to establish an office in Lindsay, similar to business incubator in Peterborough, out of which clients could work.
Peterborough sends water purification equipment to Brazil
Through a collaboration between local Peterborough business Prima IP, the Brazilian Consulate of Toronto and the Brazil Canada Chamber of Commerce (BCCC), and the Innovation Cluster Peterborough & the Kawarthas, Peterborough is sending water purification technology to Brazil in response to the January 25th disaster when an iron ore mine’s tailings dam burst. (Photo: Innovation Cluster)
Peterborough is sending water purification equipment to a rural area of Brazil that was devastated in January.
After the dam of the Corrego do Feijao iron ore mine in southeastern Brazil burst on January 25th, 182 people were killed with at least 100 others missing. A consequence of the tragedy was also a desperate lack of potable water in surrounding areas.
Through a collaboration between local Peterborough business Prima IP, the Brazilian Consulate of Toronto and the Brazil Canada Chamber of Commerce (BCCC), and the Innovation Cluster Peterborough & the Kawarthas, state-of-art water purification technology and equipment will be sent to the devastated region. The equipment is expected to produce fully drinkable water at a rate of nearly 10,000 litres a day.
After learning of the tragedy, Prima IP founder Marcelo Konig Sarkis contacted the Innovation Cluster and the Brazilian Consulate in Toronto.
“I saw the reports of the dam breach and felt I had to do something,” Sarkis says. “I thought of the water technology focus of the Cluster and reached out to Michael Skinner, the Brazilian Consulate in Toronto and the BCCC.”
“We just wanted to know how we could help in the wake of such a disaster and the Innovation Cluster’s access to water purification technology turned out to be the answer they were looking for,” adds Skinner, noting that the cluster’s water innovation specialist John Gillis was integral in getting the equipment ready for transport and set up in Brazil.
The gravity-fed stand-alone water purification unit, weighing less than 13 kilograms and standing about 1.5 meters tall, has a proven track record in some of the most forbidding places in the world.
Deadline to apply for ignite100 entrepreneurial competition extended to March 22
The deadline to apply for the ignite100 entrepreneurial competition has been extended to 5 p.m. on Friday, March 22nd.
Launched earlier this year by Community Futures Peterborough (CFP), the competition’s grand prize is a repayable loan of $100,000, with no payments in the first year and no interest for the first three years (CFP will pay the interest for the first 36 months).
Eight semi-finalists will be selected by March 30th and will make their pitch to a panel at a live competition on May 2nd. Three finalists will then make a private presentation to the Board of Directors at CFP on June 18th, with the winner announced at the CFP’s annual general meeting on June 27th.
New to the competition is the announcement that the top eight semi-finalists will also have first access to the funds available through the new 2019 Innovation Contribution Program.
For more information and to apply, visit ignite100.ca.
Golden Wheel Chinese Restaurant in Peterborough under new ownership
Susan Tung with Tina, one of the new owners of the Golden Wheel Chinese Restaurant in Peterborough. (Photo: Golden Wheel / Facebook)
Last Tuesday (March 12), Susan Tung announced on Facebook that her family has sold Golden Wheel Chinese Restaurant (6725 Highway 7, Peterborough).
Susan’s parents Mei and Patrick have retired and sold the business a few months ago to a new family. The father of one of the new owners has worked in the restaurant since 2016.
The Tung family originally opened their Chinese restaurant in 1992, and then a few years later purchased the adjacent property, a country bar called the Honky Tonk, to expand the restaurant.
They sold the restaurant in 2013 and then repurchased it again in 2016, when they began to offer line dancing, live music, and more.
Susan says she will continue to be involved with the management of the restaurant, including event bookings and marketing, as the new owners get up to speed.
Electric City Vegans offers plant-based brunch at Dreams of Beans in downtown Peterborough
One of the dishes available from Electric City Vegans at the weekly Sunday brunch at Dreams of Beans. (Photo: Connor Clarkin)
Electric City Vegans, operated by Chef Connor Clarkin and his wife Tash, is now offering a plant-based brunch at Dreams of Beans Cafe (138 Hunter St. W., Peterborough).
The brunch menu is available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays, and features vegan versions of scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, waffles, a breakfast sandwich, and more.
For more information, visit Electric City Vegans on Facebook or Instagram.
New indoor playground Kidz Playland hosts its grand opening on March 21 in Peterborough
Kidz Playland in Peterborough features slides, obstacles, trampolines, ball pits, ball machines, and an interactive smart board. (Photo: Kidz Playland)
Kidz Playland, a new indoor playground for children, is hosting its grand opening at 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 21st.
Located at 660 The Kingsway, the business is co-owned by Ayub and Makkieha Tabibi and their daughter Farzana Seddiqi and son-in-law Ali Seddiqi.
Kidz Playland offers a 5,000 square-foot play area featuring slides, obstacles, trampolines, ball pits, ball machines, and an interactive smart board.
A single day pass for children (toddlers and older) is $10.99+HST from Monday to Thursday, and $11.99+HST from Friday to Sunday and on holidays. Infants are free when accompanied by a paid sibling ($4.99+HST otherwise). Admission is free for up to two adults per group ($5+HST for additional adults).
The first 30 children during the grand opening will receive a free one-hour admission pass and goody bags. The grand opening will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. with city councillor Lesley Parnell and Meagan LaPlante, executive director of YES Shelter for Youth and Families, to which Kids Playland will be donated 50 per cent of ticket sales during the grand opening.
Kids Playland is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Entertainment lawyer and television producer Stephen Stohn appointed chancellor of Trent University
Trent University alumnus Stephen Stohn will be the 12th chancellor of Trent University. (Supplied photo)
Stephen Stohn, best known as the executive producer of the teen drama series Degrassi, will be the 12th chancellor of Trent University.
The American-born 70-year-old entertainment lawyer, award-winning producer, songwriter and author is a Trent alumnus. He began attending Trent in 1966, when he helped found Trent’s student newspaper Arthur as well as Trent Radio. He graduated from Trent in 1969 with a B.A. in philosophy and economics.
Stohn is only the second alumnus to hold the position of chancellor in the institution’s 55-year history.
He is a long-time supporter of the university, including gifting $1 million for the new student centre. In 2015, he served as alumni-in-residence, participating and mentoring Trent students in workshops and seminars. The same year, he was awarded an honorary degree from Trent.
Currently the president of Skystone Media Inc. and its related companies, Stohn has been the executive producer of numerous television series including Degrassi, Instant Star, Open Heart, and The L.A. Complex. In addition, Stohn served for nearly 20 years as executive producer and then chair of the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences who organize the Juno Awards, Canada’s music awards show.
As an attorney, he has represented some of Canada’s most talented and successful artists, and has been an active lobbyist for the reform of Canada’s copyright laws.
In 2011, Stohn was inducted into the Canadian Music & Broadcast Industry Hall of Fame, nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award, and won a Peabody Award.
Stohn will be installed as chancellor at convocation ceremonies to be held on Friday, June 7, 2019.
Port Hope Chamber announces nominees for 2018 Business Excellence Awards
The Port Hope and District Chamber of Commerce has announced the nominees for its 22nd annual Business Excellence Awards.
The awards will be announced on Saturday, April 27th at the Dalewood Golf Course in Cobourg.
Here is the complete list of nominees by category:
Customer First
93.3 My FM & 107.9 Classic Rock
Coffee Public
Elliot Insurance
Lauria Hyundai
Lauria Volkswagen
Northumberland Tirecraft
Port Hope Health Centre
Primitive Designs
Queenies Bake Shop
Wellington Suites
Next Big Thing – Innovation/New Business
Frosted Flour
Olympus Burger
The Ecig Flavourium
The Men’s Room
The Schnitzel Shack
Toe Beans Cat Cafe
People’s Choice
Avery Dental
Primitive Designs
Snapd Northumberland West
The Ecig Flavourium
Thirsty Goose
Small Business
Frosted Flour
James Sculthorpe Ltd.
R. Brooking Tree Service
Simplify Solutions
The Schnitzel Shack
Thrill of the Find
Hospitality & Tourism
Dreamer’s Cafe
Haute Goat
lnuite FineArt
Olympus Burger
Primitive Designs
Summerhill Manor
Young Professional
Elise Hermen
George Kallonakis
John O’Keefe
John Racine
Stephen Henderson
Not for Profit / Service Club
Air Cadet League of Canada – 718 Yukon
Capitol Theatre
Ganaraska Regional Conservation Authority
Navy League of Canada Northumberland
Northumberland Community Counselling Centre
Manufacturing & Skilled Trades
Henderson Construction
Arcadis Canada Inc.
Esco
Trade Tech Industries
Ganaraska Grain
City of Kawartha Lakes Age Friendly Steering Committee hosting information sessions on age-friendly business in Lindsay on March 18
The Age Friendly Steering Committee of the City of Kawartha Lakes is hosting an information session on age-friendly business from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, March 18th at Between the Bread Eatery and Market (17 William St. S., Lindsay).
The session is free and open to all business owners and staff who are interested in learning how to make their business more age friendly. There will be a light breakfast during the presentation, and take-away resources will be available.
Peterborough DBIA breakfast network meeting with Mayor Diane Therrien on March 20
Peterborough Mayor Diane Therrien. (Photo: NV Media Productions for kawarthaNOW.com)
The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA)’s next breakfast network meeting takes place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20th at Empress Gardens (131 Charlotte St., Peterborough).
Peterborough Mayor Diane Therrien will be the guest speaker.
Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. with the guest speaker at 8 a.m.
Tickets are $5 at the door, and the meeting is open to everyone.
Kawartha Chamber hosts Business Owners Sharing Solutions (B.O.S.S.) in Bridgenorth on March 20
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting its first Business Owners Sharing Solutions (B.O.S.S.) of 2019 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20th at Bridgenorth Community Hall (836 Charles St. Bridgenorth).
The topic will be “Generating Sales with Social Media & Online Marketing” and will feature panellists Heather Watson of acorn30, Matt Stimpson of We Design Group, and Mallory Graham of Rosey’s Trading Post.
The session will be moderated by Madeleine Hurrell, Economic Development Officer at Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development’s Business Advisory Centre.
Peterborough Chamber hosts seminar on building a leadership team on March 20 in Peterborough
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce’s next Lunch Box Learning session takes place from 12 to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20th in the chamber’s boardroom (175 George St. N., Peterborough).
Dennis Geelen of Lindsay-based business consulting firm Zero In will present on the topic “Building a Cohesive Leadership Team”.
Lunch Box Learning is free to attend for Chamber members and members of the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough. Bring your own lunch.
Innovation Cluster launches H2O Makerspace on March 21 in Peterborough
In celebration of World Water Day, the Innovation Cluster will be launching its “H2O Makerspace: Powered by Franklin Empire Inc.” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 21st at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough).
Geographer, entrepreneur, and storyteller Jennifer Pate will deliver a keynote presentation sharing her stories and discussing how pollution is affecting our bodies of water. Pate’s research has explored experiences of ‘environmental subjects’ in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, film as an emancipatory pedagogy for environmental education, and geographies of health &and biological identity.
The event begins with Pate’s keynote, following at 11 a.m. by the launch of H2O Makerspace and at 11:30 a.m. with a trade show featuring various clean tech companies throughout the region and tutorials of clean tech equipment. Coffee and baked goods will be served.
Nomination deadline for Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards is March 22
The nomination deadline for the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Business Excellence Awards is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 22nd.
Nominations are being accepted in the following nine categories: Excellence In Business (Retail-Based Business), Excellence In Business (Service-Based Business), Pride And Progress, Customer Experience Award (Service Business), Customer Experience Award (Retail Business), Community Impact, Non-Profit Organization, and the Chair’s Award.
The awards will be presented at a ceremony on April 27th in Hastings. For rules and regulations and an online nomination form, visit trenthillschamber.ca/business-awards/.
Application deadline for April trade show for heritage tradespeople and contractors in Peterborough is March 22
The application deadline to apply for the the second annual trade show for heritage tradespeople and contractors in Peterborough has been extended to Friday, March 22nd.
The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee is hosting the trade show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 27th at St. James United Church (221 Romaine St., Peterborough). The goal of the trade show is to connect contractors and tradespeople with experience working on heritage buildings with owners of heritage properties in the City of Peterborough.
Tradespeople with relevant experience are encouraged to fill out an application form online at www.peterborough.ca or at the Heritage Preservation Office at 210 Wolfe Street.
A space at the event will cost $15. Tradespeople must be able to demonstrate that they have experience working with heritage buildings and that their work complies with the standards and guidelines for the conservation of historic places in Canada.
Submit completed forms by email to heritage@peterborough.ca or return paper copies to the Heritage Preservation Office.
Peterborough Chamber hosts annual general meeting on March 26 in Peterborough
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 130th annual general meeting from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26th at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough)
Guest speakers include Ashley Challinor, vice-president of policy with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, and Trevin Stratton, chief economist with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber members will be asked to approve the chamber’s audited financial statements and the actions of the chamber’s board for 2018.
The cost for the event, which includes lunch, is $30+HST for members and $40+HST for non-members. For mroe information and to register by March 19th, visit www.peterboroughchamber.ca.
Bears’ Lair entrepreneurial competition hosts semi-finalist showcase on March 26 in Peterborough
The Bears’ Lair entrepreneurial competition is hosting its semi-finalist showcase from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26 at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough).
Bears’ Lair is an annual competition for up-and-coming entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Six finalists in two categories (Goods and Services and Innovation) will be selected to pitch their business to a panel of judges and the local community for a chance to win a cash prize.
The competition’s semi-finalists will showcase their businesses in hopes of competing in the top six at the final pitch event on April 30th.
Kawartha Chamber hosts Business After Hours in Peterborough on March 26
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting its first Business After Hours of 2019 from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26th at The Canadian Canoe Museum (910 Monaghan Rd, Peterborough).
The evening features networking, learning about some of the non-profit organizations in the area, and exploring The Canadian Canoe Museum. Non-profits with small displays at the event will include Abbeyfield House Society of Lakefield, Camp Kawartha, Community Care, Cuddles for Cancer, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, Indian River Reptile Zoo, Peterborough Humane Society, and the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation.
To register for the free event, visit a href=”http://business.kawarthachamber.ca/events/register/10128″ rel=”noopener” title=”Business After Hours Registration – kawarthachamber.ca” target=”_blank”>business.kawarthachamber.ca/events/register/10128.
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development hosts inaugural Business & Entrepreneurship Conference in Peterborough on March 28
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development is bringing together business owners from across Peterborough & the Kawarthas for the inaugural Business & Entrepreneurship Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 28th at the Peterborough Golf & Country Club (1030 Armour Rd., Peterborough).
This is a must-attend event for entrepreneurs looking to learn from industry thought leaders, network with like-minded professionals to develop partnerships and collaboration, and grow and improve their business. Keynote speakers are Nikki Pett on the topic “Relationship Marketing” and Darrell Keezer on the topic “Digital Disruption”, with special guest speaker George Anastasopoulos.
There will be an afternoon panel on customer service in the digital age features local business people include Katie Dempsey of Blind Ambition, Bob Gauvreau of Gauvreau & Associates, Mike Watt of Providence/S.O.S./Flavour Fashion, Scott Murison of Wild Rock, and Nicole Truman of Fox Law.
The conference registration also includes the opportunity to participate in the “Headshot Photo Booth”, where business owners can get a professional photo taken.
Tickets are $55+HST ($40+HST for members of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce) and include breakfast and lunch.
This event is being presented with the support of Kawarthas Northumberland, Canada Business Ontario, and the Peterborough Region Angel Network.
Northumberland Chamber hosts 2018 Business Achievement Awards in Cobourg on March 29
The Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Business Achievement Awards from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, March 29th at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn and Convention Centre (930 Burnham St., Cobourg).
The annual awards recognize excellence and honour high achievers in the local business community.
Tickets for the gala, which includes a multi-course dinner, are $90+HST. Purchase tickets by March 25th by phone at 905-372-5831 or online at nccofc.ca/events/register/1364
Peterborough Emergency Management and Safety Forum on April 4 and 5
The Peterborough Emergency Management and Safety Forum is taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 4th and Friday, April 5th at Stonehouse Hall (2195 Lansdowne St. Peterborough).
This two-day event is an opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field of emergency management and safety planning and execution. The forum will cover incident management and mitigation, emergency planning and responses, public safety, business continuity planning, interoperability in times of crisis or serious event, and coordinated collaborative response.
There will be guest speakers from Orlando, Florida speaking on lessons learned from the Pulse Night Club shooting, Peterborough Police Chief Scott Gilbert speaking on the 2018 Toronto van incident, Sgt. Kerry Schmidt of the O.P.P. speaking on communications and the media in a crisis, Tom McKay (President of the International Society of Crime Prevention Practitioners), and an expert panel on cyber security.
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism hosts second annual Rural Tourism Symposium on April 11 in Keene
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism is hosting the second annual Rural Tourism Symposium from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 11th in the Agriculture Heritage Building at Lang Pioneer Village Museum (104 Lang Rd., Keene).
This symposium for tourism industry professionals will include a keynote presentation from Lisa LaVecchia, president and CEO of Destination Ontario, as well as presentations by: Beth Potter, president and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario; Trevor Benson, director of food tourism innovation with Culinary Tourism Alliance; Jewel Cunningham, director of Ontario Waterways with Parks Canada; and David Robinson of Destination Canada.
There will also be a tourism town hall by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, one of a series presented by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, Destination Canada, and local industry partners.
The cost of $125, which includes a continental breakfast and a market-style lunch. For more information and to register, visit ruraltourism.biz.
For more business-related events in the Kawarthas, check out our Business Events column.
The Peterborough Symphony Orchestra presents "Oh, to be in England!" at Showplace Performance Centre on April 6, 2019, with works by Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan Williams. British-Canadian violinist and PSO concertmaster Phoebe Tsang will feature as soloist in Vaughan Williams' poignant 'The Lark Ascending'. (Photo: Sullivan Hismans)
“Oh, to be in England / Now that April’s there”
– Home-Thoughts, From Abroad by Robert Browning
On Saturday, April 6th, the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra (PSO) presents “Oh, to be in England!” at Showplace Performance Centre, performing works by Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan Williams and featuring violinist and PSO concertmaster Phoebe Tsang and soprano and local star Melody Thomas. The concert is sponsored by Scotiabank.
Tickets are available now for the PSO’s “Oh, to be in England!” on April 6, 2019 at Showplace. Ticket holders can find out more about the program at the pre-concert Meet the Maestro chat starting at 6:40 p.m.
Experience the traditions of Elizabethan court through Britten’s “Gloriana” Suite. Then walk the land back to early 20th-century England guided by the heartrending sounds of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending featuring PSO Concertmaster Phoebe Tsang, and his Symphony No. 3 “Pastoral” featuring soprano Melody Thomas.
Based on Lytton Strachey’s 1928 book Elizabeth and Essex: A Tragic History, the opera Gloriana depicts the tempestuous relationship between “Gloriana” — the name given by the 16th-century poet Edmund Spenser to his character representing Queen Elizabeth I in his poem “The Faerie Queene” — and the charming and ambitious Earl of Essex, who was finally ordered executed by the queen for treason.
Evoking the rhythms and harmonies of court and dance music of the late 1500s and early 1600s, the “Gloriana” Suite is brisk and exhilarating, evocative, melodic, and fully dramatic in its final Gloriana Moritura.
It is “brilliantly theatrical music,” says PSO Music Director and Conductor Michael Newnham.
English composer Benjamin Britten (pictured in 1968) wrote his brisk and theatrical “Gloriana” Suite in 1953, but was inspired by court and dance music of the 1500s and 1600s. (Photo: Hans Wild)
Complementing the theatrical flavour of the Suite are two beautifully reflective works by Vaughan Williams. Inspired by George Meredith’s 122-line poem of the same name, Maestro Newnham describes Vaughan Williams’ poignant The Lark Ascending as “a lyrical poem in music for violin (the lark) and orchestra (the human observer).
“It is where two beings which share our world, but are fundamentally different from one another, very briefly share a moment of dialogue, but then continue on their different paths. Written on the eve of war in 1914, the music seems to encapsulate rural England, on the verge of disappearing forever, as like the lark into the cloudless sky.”
“I am very excited to have PSO Concertmaster Phoebe Tsang as our soloist for this timeless work,” he adds.
The 2018/19 concert season is British-Canadian violinist Phoebe Tsang’s second season as Concertmaster of the PSO. (Photo: Claudia Hung)
Phoebe Tsang is a British-Canadian violinist, poet, author, composer and librettist whose artistic practice focuses on interdisciplinary collaboration, and improvisation as a vehicle for composition and performance.
Her libretti have been commissioned by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Canadian Sinfonietta, Talisker Players, and Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra.
This is Phoebe’s second season as Concertmaster with the PSO.
In The Lark Ascending, a symphonic poem (or tone poem), Vaughan Williams takes the extra step of supplementing the title’s image of a bird ascending skyward by writing on the flyleaf of the score excerpts from the Meredith poem.
When asked about the kind of considerations given to the excerpts when performing the piece, Phoebe states: “The beauty and lyricism of the music resonates so wonderfully with the poetry. It’s impossible not to be inspired by the relationship between words and music here. One need look no further than the music itself to appreciate its meaning — in the words of the composer himself: ‘Of course music has a meaning, but I think that can only be expressed in terms of music.'”
English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams (pictured in 1917) was inspired to write his “Pastoral” Symphony after his service in World War I. His “The Lark Ascending” was written just prior to the war. (Photo: RVW Society)
After his service in World War I, Vaughan Williams composed his “Pastoral” Symphony, which Maestro Newnham describes as one of the greatest symphonies of the 20th century.
“I am very happy and honoured to be given the chance to present this work with the PSO,” he says.
While titled “Pastoral,” this piece reinterprets the bucolic ideal. Williams himself described it as thus: “It’s really wartime music — a great deal of it incubated when I used to go up night after night in the ambulance wagon at Ecoivres and we went up a steep hill and there was wonderful Corot-like landscape in the sunset. It’s not really lambkins frisking at all, as most people take for granted.”
This is clearly referenced in the long trumpet cadenza in the second movement, inspired by the sound of a bugler who played in that evening landscape.
“This music was composed in memory to the many victims and casualties of war,” Maestro Newnham says. “It is an eloquent and profound ode to peace.”
Soprano Melody Thomas joins the PSO for this work in a small but very significant role: singing a wordless vocal that frames the final movement.
Melody has an Honours Bachelor of Music from the University of Toronto and an Opera Diploma from Wilfrid Laurier University. She currently teaches voice lessons at Lakefield College School. Having sung numerous times with the PSO she is excited to be back and singing in this piece.
Local soprano Melody Thomas returns to the PSO to perform the stunning wordless vocal in the April 6 performance of Ralph Vaughan Williams’s “Pastoral” Symphony. (Photo courtesy of Melody Thomas)
“My opera debut was singing Vaughan Williams’ Riders to the Sea,” says Melody, “and here I am getting the opportunity to learn more beautiful Vaughan Williams!”
Concert ticket holders are invited to attend “Meet the Maestro,” a popular ‘behind-the-music’ pre-concert talk with Maestro Newnham at 6:40 p.m. in the Showplace theatre.
Concert tickets for “Oh, to be in England!” are $49, $39, or $20 for adults, and $10 for students. Tickets are available at the Showplace box office (290 George St. N, Peterborough), by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at showplace.org.
VIDEO: “The Lark Ascending” – violinist Janine Jansen with the BBC Symphony Orchestra
Members of the organizing committee (Sofie Andreou, Amy Simpson, Tracey Ormond) for the 2019 Women In Business and Judy Heffernan Awards announced the 44 nominees on Facebook Live on March 16, 2019. Andreou, Simpson, and Ormond will be the hosts for the awards ceremony on April 9, 2019.
The nominees have been announced for the 2019 Women In Business Award and Judy Heffernan Award, presented by the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough.
Organizing committee members Sofie Andreou, Tracey Ormond, and Amy Simpson shared the list of nominees on Facebook Live on Saturday afternoon (March 16), shortly after nominations closed.
Thirty women have been nominated for the Women In Business Award, which will recognize a woman who demonstrates business leadership that has led to job creation, innovation, and increased business acumen. It will also recognize the recipient’s impact on the community at large, including fundraising, volunteering, and other contributions.
Fourteen women have been nominated for the Judy Heffernan Award, which will recognize a female entrepreneur, mentor, or student who embodies the late Judy Heffernan’s legacy of humbly helping others succeed. Heffernan was a well-respected leader of the local business community who passed away in 2013 at the age of 61 after a brief battle with cancer. She was widely known as a tireless promoter of the entrepreneurial dreams and passions of women both young and old.
A list of all the nominees for both awards is provided below.
The awards will be presented at a dinner on Tuesday, April 9th at the Personal Touch Banquet Hall (1135 Lansdowne St. W.,), formerly known as the Parkway Place Banquet Hall. Andreou and Ormond (who have both also been nominated for the Women in Business Award) will be the evening’s hosts, along with Amy Simpson.
Tickets are now available for the awards dinner, which which will include a keynote speech by Rhonda Barnet, the Chief Operating Officer of Steelworks Design, an engineering and custom automation firm she co-founded with her husband Don Barnet. She is also a past Chair of the National Board of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, the first female chair in that organization’s history.
Tickets for the awards dinner are available at a cost of $65 for WBN members or $75 for non-members (tables are also available). For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.womensbusinessnetwork.net/awards-event/.
Women In Business Award nominees (alphabetical by surname)
Sofie Andreou (Sofie Andreou & Associates)
Karen Auger (BDO Canada)
Rhonda Barnet (Steelworks Design)
Marlaine Bennett (Bennett’s Home Furnishings)
Leslie Bridget (My Left Breast)
Tina Bromley (Tiny Greens Plant Café)
Monika Carmichael (Trent Valley Honda)
Colleen Carruthers (T-R Group)
Darlene Cook (Peterborough Housing Corporation)
Vanessa Dinesen (Dinesen Financial)
Jennifer Garland (The Mane Intent)
Shannon Gray (Sugar Me Right!)
Vanessa Oake Hogan (Century 21 United Realty Brokerage)
Karen Irvine (A Taste of the Kawarthas Magazine)
Jenni Johnston (Art School of Peterborough)
Teresa Kaszuba (The Morning Show on Global Peterborough/CHEX)
Theresa Longo (Theresa Longo Brands.)
Jay Lough Hayes (RE/MAX Rough River Realty Ltd.)
Ann Marie Maly (Bruce Maly Plumbing and Drain Services)
Erin McLean (McLean Berry Farm)
Tracey Ormond (That’s a Wrap Catering)
Louise Racine (Thirteen Moons)
Jennifer Scates (Central Smith Creamery)
Leslie Scott (Walton Wood Farm)
Catia Skinner (Mega Experience)
Martha Sullivan (Sullivan Law Ptbo)
Christine Teixeira (Accountability Financial)
Shelby Leonard Watt (SOS Save Our Soles)
Sheneese Wilkins (Mink Magic Beauty Bar)
Judy Heffernan Award nominees (alphabetical by surname)
Kim Appleton
Anne Arnold
Rhonda Barnet
Colleen Carruthers
Diana Carter
Susan Dunkley
Michelle Ferreri
Jennifer Garland
Theresa Longo
Tracey Ormond
Grace Reynolds
Peggy Shaughnessy
Jeannine Taylor
Sheneese Wilkins
Past Award Recipients
Women In Business Award
2018 – No award*
2017 – No award*
2016 – Gwyneth James, Cody & James Chartered Professional Accountants
2015 – Amy Simpson, MicroAge
2014 – Kerri Davies, Canadian Mental Health Association HKPR
2013 – Kyla Gutsche, Cosmetic Transformations
2012 – Sally Harding, Nightingale Nursing
2011 – Sheridan Graham, The County of Peterborough
2010 – Jean Grant, The Toy Shop
2009 – Kathy Windrem, BDO Canada
2008 – Mary LaRocque, Marlin Travel
2007 – Tina Johnston, Fandango Spa
2006 – Kim Paget, Paget Dental
2005 – Jeannine Taylor, Kawartha Now
2004 – Helen Hamilton, Costume King
2003 – Gail Courneyea, Angels of Flight
Judy Heffernan Award
2018 – No award*
2017 – No award*
2016 – Louise Racine
2015 – Sofie Andreou
*Both the Women in Business Award (previously known as the Business Woman of the Year Award) and the Judy Heffernan Award (previously known as the Judy Heffernan Memorial Award) were organized by the Peterborough Examiner until 2016. The Women’s Business Network of Peterborough assumed responsibility for both awards in 2019.
0ne of the most nominated and award-winning female vocalists in Canadian country music history, Lisa Brokop will be performing her Legendary Ladies of Country show on April 1, 2019 at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough, joined by Canadian country music artists Patricia Conroy and Amanda Wilkinson. (Photo: Erick Anderson)
For all the success she has achieved as a country music recording artist, Lisa Brokop remains fully cognizant of the fact that she owes much to those women who blazed a trail long before her.
Showplace presents Lisa Brokop: Legendary Ladies of Country
When: Monday, April 1, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough) How much: $35
Featuring Amanda Wilkinson and Patricia Conroy. Tickets are available in person at the Showplace box office (290 George St. N., Peterborough), by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org.
In conversation with the Surrey, BC native, Brokop frequently refers to country music legends such as Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, and Patsy Cline with clear reverence. In particular, Brokop speaks to “the stories” that country music, via its early luminaries, shared with the masses.
“I’m drawn to that just like everyone else … that’s what brought me to country music to begin with,” says Brokop.
“They didn’t have the technology we have now. It was just plain and simple. You had to be good, and you had to have heart and soul. And they did.”
On Monday, April 1st at Showplace Performance Centre, Brokop’s admiration for country music’s early pioneers will be clearly evident as she brings her Legendary Ladies of Country show to Peterborough, joined by fellow country music artists Amanda Wilkinson and Patricia Conroy.
Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. performance cost $35 at the box office, available by calling 705-742-7469 or online at www.showplace.org.
“I can’t wait,” says Brokop from Nashville, her home for more than 25 years now.
“I’ve done the show before but I’ve never done it with the two gals (Wilkinson and Conroy). We’re pretty excited about it. We all love traditional classic country music and we love all those legendary ladies. We’re going to be singing some of our favourites and will tell some stories and have some laughs. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
VIDEO: “Sweet Dreams” by Don Gibson performed by Lisa Brokop
In paying tribute to country music’s early crooners — she has also toured a show titled The Patsy Cline Project — Brokop is relying on country music fans’ loyalty to the genre, which she says is clearly evident. Combined with the nostalgia factor, a show such as this is a no-brainer.
“It’s fun to do my own songs but I love watching the audience and hearing their reaction to the classic songs,” says Brokop.
“Sometimes you’ll see someone look over to the person beside them and you know they’re remembering a moment. Maybe they danced to it or it was a special time or whatever. It really brings a neat energy to the room and takes people back.”
“With country music, I think it’s the simplicity of it; the raw realness of the music, the lyrical content. People are like ‘Oh, I was at so-and-so’s house that night I heard that song’ or ‘I was going through a break-up’…those kinds of things that really make people connect. Or maybe it’s the tone of the voice, like Tammy Wynette’s voice. That tone she had that was so deep and raw and real. You could just tell that she lived what she was singing about.”
VIDEO: “Walkin’ after Midnight” by Alan Block and Donn Hecht performed by Lisa Brokop
For the Peterborough show, Brokop will also sing a selection of her own hit songs — an impressive catalogue in the making since 1990 when, at age 17, she recorded her Canadian top 10 debut single “Daddy, Sing To Me”.
What followed were eight studio albums, more than a dozen top 40 radio hits, and certified gold record sales. As one would expect with such a pedigree, critical acclaim brought her numerous industry accolades and nominations while high-charting subsequent singles — including such as “Give Me A Ring Sometime”, “How Do I Let Go?”, “What’s Not To Love”, “Better Off Broken”, and “Something Undeniable” — cemented her position as one of Canada’s top country music exports.
“I’ve heard a lot of artists say they didn’t choose the music, it chose them,” says Brokop, whose earliest stage experience saw her perform as a child alongside her accordion-playing mother.
“I loved singing from the time I was just a tiny little kid, like while I was in the bathtub. I wouldn’t sing for anybody when I was really young, but my mom would put a recorder outside the bathroom door and record me. I just loved it. That was my happy place … on my swing set, swinging and singing. That was my thing.
“I was about seven and I sang O Canada! for a group of people at a campsite. I was scared to death. I wasn’t going to do it and someone talked me into it. I did it and then my voice cracked at the very end. I was devastated. I started to cry but then the people applauded.
“I think from that moment I was like ‘It’s okay .. you can make a little mistake.’ It could have gone either way but they loved it. That was sort of my open door. Then I found out Nashville is the place where country music singers went and from then on it was like ‘That’s where I’m going to go.’ I was going to be a singer. I was driven.”
VIDEO: “How Do I Let Go” – Lisa Brokop
Not hurting matters was her musical emergence in the early to mid 1990s — a time when female country singers again dominated the radio charts and album sales tracking lists, their huge popularity buoyed by near-constant video play. Brokop says she was “lucky enough” to be part of that renaissance.
“I had success on radio at an early age. Back when I first started recording, there wasn’t a lot of Canadian content on the radio so they were kind of desperate. They had to play a certain amount. That helped boost some of my spins. I also had great support from my parents.
“A lot of blessings came to me and I’m grateful I can still go out and play. Sometimes people are lucky to get a few years and that’s it. I’m still able to do it, which is a good thing because I don’t really have any other education. This is it. I’m a singer and musician.”
VIDEO: “Break It” – Lisa Brokop
At age 45, it’s now all about balance for Brokop.
“I love performing. I love songwriting. I love being at home with my daughter. I don’t want to be on the road 365 days a year. My daughter needs me to be here to pick her up from school and those kinds of regular things. And then having time to write songs. The older you get you start to realize what you want in life and what you don’t need. You prioritize things a little bit differently.”
Brokop notes the current state of country music is shifting.
“We’ve had several years of a lot of guys out there doing the real country thing. In some ways, that’s been really great but it seems that people want to go back a little more of the classic-sounding music. I think people are missing the realness of that.
“People want to feel things. We need real stuff. We have beating hearts that need to be filled. They want to laugh; they want to cry. I think people long for something deeper and honest. Life is hard. Everybody is going through something. Music is a great thing for that.”
Brokop acknowledges that her being comfortable paying tribute to the music of others is a sign of her evolution as a singer.
“It could be maturity … let’s go with that,” she laughs.
“When I was first starting out, I wanted to do my own music and try to find my place but I think, with time, I’ve felt it’s okay to honour others that came first and were part of the reason why I got into the music business and were so influential to me.”
VIDEO: “November Trees” – Lisa Brokop
Hoping to issue a country Christmas classics album later this year, and perhaps put together a Christmas tour, Brokop is clearly in a very good place — a place she remains humble to occupy.
“Sometimes, right before I go on stage and it’s a sold-out show, I just stand there and think ‘Is this for me?’ I just feel like regular little old Lisa Brokop. It’s a kind of a pinch-me moment. I hope I always feel that. Some people view me as a superstar. I’m not. I’m just a regular person. I love to sing. I’ve been given some gifts and I like to use them.”
“Things are different for me now. I’m not looking to have the number one slot on the radio. I’m just doing what I do, which is really fun.”
Meanwhile, for any aspiring singers Brokop offers advice culled from personal experience.
“Know who you are and know what you stand for and what you believe in,” she says.
“The world will get in there and take over and all of a sudden you’ll be doing all these things you didn’t realize you said ‘Yes’ to and things can get out of control very fast. I think, in a lot of ways, the universe works it out for you. I’m a big believer in prayer and lifting it up and I think, with faith, that really does guide things.”
Amanda Wilkinson and Patricia Conroy
By Bruce Head
For her Legendary Ladies of Country show, Brokop will be sharing the stage with country musicians Amanda Wilkinson and Patricia Conroy.
Amanda Wilkinson. (Publicity photo)
Amanda Wilkinson was born in Belleville in 1982 and raised in Trenton. After her father Steve lost his job at a nuclear power plant, he decided to pursue his passion for music and formed The Wilkinsons with daughter Amanda and her brother Tyler. The family moved to Nashville and released their first album, Nothing But Love, on Giant Records in 1998.
It reached No. 16 on the Billboard Top Country Albums charts and the first single, “26 Cents”, was certified gold in both the United States and Canada. In 2007, The Wilkinsons won Independent Group of the Year at the Canadian Country Music Awards. In all, The Wilkinsons received nine Canadian Country Music Awards, one Juno Award, and two Grammy nominations before disbanding in 2009.
VIDEO: “Livin On The Outside” – Small Town Pistols with Amanda Wilkinson
In 2004, Amanda began performing on her own, and released her self-titled debut in 2005, leading to nominations for Single of the Year, CMT Video of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year at the Canadian Country Music Awards in 2006. After The Wilkinsons disbanded, she and her brother Tyler formed a new country group called Small Town Pistols in 2012, releasing a self-titled album in 2013 that was nominated for a Juno Award in 2014.
Patricia Conroy. (Publicity photo)
Patricia Conroy was born in Montreal in 1964 and raised in a strong musical environment, influenced by her mother’s Maritime country background and her father’s Irish roots. Surrounded by Celtic and country music, she began piano and voice lessons and performed in the family band.
Influenced by the sounds of Emmylou Harris, The Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and Jackson Browne, she moved to Vancouver in British Columbia where her band won $10,000 contest in the late 1980s, which allowed her to record demos of some of her original material.
This led to a record deal with Warner Music Canada. Her debut album, Blue Angel, was released in 1990, with two singles, “This Time” and “Take Me With You”, both reaching the top 10 in Canada.
Between 1992 and 2007, Conroy released four more studio records, earning her seven Canadian Country Music Awards and nine British Columbia Country Music Awards. As well as performing, Conroy has been focused on songwriting, with her songs recorded by many Canadian artists including The Rankin Family, Jimmy Rankin, Michelle Wright, Emerson Drive, Small Town Pistols, Tebey, Chad Brownlee, as well as American artists such as Steel Magnolia and Reba McEntire.
Dani McDonald as Salli Bowles, Conner Clarkin as the Emcee, and Daze Francis as Cliff Bradshaw in a promotional photo for the Anne Shirley Theatre Company production of the classic musical "Cabaret", which runs from March 15 to 23, 2019 at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre. (Photo: Ash Naylor Photography)
Anne Shirley Theatre Company (ASTC) presents
Cabaret
When: Friday, March 15 & Saturday, March 16, 2019 at 8 p.m.; Friday, March 22 & Saturday, March 23, 2019 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 16 & Saturday, March 23, 2019 at 2 p.m. Where: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St. E, Peterborough) How much: $20 adults, $15 students/seniors/underwaged and arts workers, $25 cabaret seating
Directed by Liam Parker and starring Conner Clarkin, Daze Francis, Eddy Sweeney, Caitlin Currie, Dani McDonald, Mark Hiscox, Khora Tatyana, Mary Grace Murphy, and more. Presented by arrangement with Tams-Witmark. Advance tickets are available at the Market Hall box office, by phone at 705-749-1146, or online at markethall.org. Advance tickets also available at the ASTC office at Trent University.
On Friday, March 15th, the Anne Shirley Theatre Company (ASTC) transforms Peterborough’s Market Hall into 1931 Berlin with the classic Broadway musical favourite Cabaret.
Directed by Liam Parker and featuring a cast of Trent University students and ASTC alumni, Cabaret presents all the lavish sensuality of German nightlife with all of its charisma, sexuality, and romance, paired with the bleakness of the rise of the Nazi regime in all its horror.
A bold choice for ASTC, Cabaret proves to be a good one, and the student theatre company brings all they have to the stage, creating one of their best musicals in years.
One of the best-loved musicals in the history of theatre, Cabaret found its roots in a 1939 novel called Goodbye to Berlin by English author Christopher Ishwood, which was adapted into a stage show in 1951 titled I am a Camera by playwright John Van Druten.
Based on this unlikely source material for a Broadway musical, Cabaret was created by the team of Joe Maskeroff, Fred Ebb, and John Kander.
Opening at New York’s Broadhurst Theater in November 1966, Cabaret pushed every social and ethical boundary to its limit, but become an instant hit with both audiences and critics, making a sweep that year at the Tony Awards winning a total of eight awards, including Best Musical. The original Broadway run would continue until September 1969 for more than 1,100 performances.
Cabaret would reach an even wider audience in 1972 when director Bob Fosse brought the show to the big screen (although in an altered state) starring Liza Minnelli. Like the stage show before it, Cabaret became the big winner that year at the Oscars, winning seven Academy Awards but losing Best Picture award to The Godfather (still today, Cabaret holds the record for having the most Oscars for a film that did not also win Best Picture).
“Cabaret” runs for six performances from March 15th to 23rd at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Ash Naylor Photography)
Although it is beloved by many of my friends and colleagues, I have never seen Cabaret and, until now, had no idea of the plot or premise of the show. I don’t know how this show escaped my cultural radar, but sometimes we just see everything at our own pace.
Thus, as a total Cabaret virgin, I was able to watch the ASTC production with new eyes, and without comparing it to any other previous version. The result had me falling into the drama and tragedy of 1931 Berlin for the very first time, and falling in love with the mirth and music of this powerful stage show.
Cabaret welcomes the audience to the legendary Kit Kat Klub, where the German girls are sexy and the German boys are too hot to handle. You are greeted by charismatic Emcee (Connor Clarkin), who welcomes you to Berlin and acts as your guide through the sights, sounds, and sex the German nights have to offer.
At the centre of the drama is Cliff Bradshaw (Daze Francis), a failed American novelist who comes to Berlin on December 31st, 1930 to find inspiration in the crumbling city. Befriending personable Berliner Ernst Ludwig (Eddy Sweeney) on the train, Cliff rents a room from landlady Fraulein Schnieder (Caitlin Currie) and finds himself at the Kit Kat Klub on New Year’s Eve, where he encounters spunky British performer Salli Bowles (Dani McDonald).
However, before he can sober up and unpack, Cliff’s world turns upside down with Salli suddenly moves in with him and the pair begin an unlikely romance.
While the plot revolves around Cliff and Salli, a more powerful emotional story emerges in the subplot featuring Schnieder and her suitor Herr Schultz (Mark Hiscox). As the two fall into a sweet courtship, their romance is torn apart by the changing political landscape, where the emergence of the Nazis threatens to crush everything, from unlikely lovers to the gaiety of the Berlin cabaret.
Daze Francis as Cliff Bradshaw and Dani McDonald as Salli Bowles in in a promotional photo for the Anne Shirley Theatre Company production of “Cabaret”. (Photo: Ash Naylor Photography)
The ASTC production of Cabaret is well cast, with Daze bringing a meek sensitivity to Cliff and Dani giving a spritely performance as Salli. The pair gives strong performances, becoming the audience’s anchor for the deeper political backdrop of the show.
But it is Caitlin and Mark who really pull the dramatic punches as middle-aged couple Schnieder and Schultz. Their romance begins so awkwardly beautiful with the gift of a pineapple, and Schneider’s loneliness paired with Schultz’s gentlemanly mannerisms bring a sweetness to the story. But it is a sweetness that is doomed, ushering in the bleak reality of 1930s Germany. Caitlin and Mark are such strong character actors, and they steal the show within every dramatic scene and musical number they perform.
As compelling as the story is, Cabaret is all about the Kit Kat Klub and the seedy romanticism of 1930s Berlin. ASTC’s production team creates a provocative spectacle of appropriate sexual deviance and, no matter how far they push the envelope, they always seem to keep to the spirit of the show. The girls are beautiful, the boys are cool, and everything goes at the cabaret. The big chorus numbers such as “Wilkommen”, “Don’t Tell Mama”, and “Money” are among the performance highlights.
Conner Clarkin (shown here in a promotional photo) is both charming and charismatic and delightful to watch as the androgynous Emcee. (Photo: Ash Naylor Photography)
The true shining star of Cabaret is the Emcee performed by Connor Clarkin. Despite knowing nearly nothing about Cabaret going into the show, even I knew about the reputation and the importance of the Emcee and Connor pulls off this complicated role.
Played with a perfect androgynous flare, Connor is both charming and charismatic and delightful to watch. However, when the cabaret is over, he is also able to deliver deep and powerful emotional punches, and during his final moments of his performance I could feel a tear streaming down by face. I’ve seen Connor in a number of shows now, but his performance as the Emcee is the performance of a lifetime.
Further applause goes to Eddy Sweeney as Ernst Ludwig, as well as the beautiful Khora Tatyana as Cliff and Salli’s neighbor Fraulein Kost. Both give charming and funny performances in the first act, which get more sinister as the show goes on.
I also want to give a big shout out to singer Mary Grace Murphy who gives the most outstanding musical performances of the night when she performs on stage with Justin Hiscox’s great orchestra. A fantastic musical performer, Mary Grace adds another layer of musical excellence to this fantastic performance.
The cast of Anne Shirley Theatre Company production’s of “Cabaret”. (Photo: Ash Naylor Photography)
As a show that is so beloved by audiences, Cabaret was a daunting show for ATSC to take on, especially since it will be compared to every previous version. I can say, as someone who has never Cabaret before, that ASTC’s production of Cabaret has sent me on my own journey to discover this haunting and beautiful musical in all its forms.
I was delighted by the Kit Kat performers, drawn in by the romance, challenged by the politics, and deeply moved by the ending. If nothing else, ASTC’s production has made a Cabaret fan out of me. Cabaret is truly the best musical that ASTC has put on for a number of years. If you love musicals, enjoy local theatre, or just love Cabaret, please come out and support this show.
I want to congratulate the ASTC for having their best season in the time that I have been covering their shows for kawarthaNOW. I have truly enjoyed the ASTC season this year and look forward to seeing what you bring to the table in 2020. I want to see more shows that are as enjoyable and engaging as Cabaret and The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon. Whatever they did this year, they really got it right.
Cabaret runs for six performances — March 15th and 16th and March 22nd and 23 at 8 p.m., with 2 p.m. matinees on March 15th and 23th — at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. Tickets are $25 for cabaret seating, $20 for adults, and $15 for students, seniors, arts workers, and the underwaged. Advance tickets also available at the ASTC office at Trent University.
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