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businessNOW – October 15, 2018

By Bruce Head -
A nightime rendering of Ashburnham Realty's proposed new luxury condo development on Crescent Street on the shores of Little Lake in Peterborough. (Supplied image)
Every week, our managing editor collects business 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.

This week’s round-up of business news features Ashburnham Realty’s proposal for a new luxury condo development on Little Lake in Peterborough, the announcement of finalists for the Kawartha Chamber’s 2018 Business Awards of Excellence, a $2 million federal investment in science and research at Trent University, and funding to expand insects-as-food producer Entomo Farms.

Also featured are the opening of Shorelines Casino Peterborough and the temporary closure of Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs, the opening of Cork & Bean in downtown Peterborough, and Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Peterborough raising funds for women’s health at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

There are lots of events happening this week during Small Business Week, and new business events added this week include a Scotiabank Business Boot Camp on October 24th, an exit strategies workshop on October 25th, the Innovation Cluster’s “Power Breakfast: Gen Y – How Millennials Are Shaping The Future” on October 26th, and the application deadline for the Cubs’ Lair Entrepreneurship Competition on October 27th.

Ashburnham Realty proposes luxury condo development on Little Lake in Peterborough

Paul Bennett, president of Ashburnham Realty, is proposing a new condo development on Crescent Street in Peterborough.

The proposed building, which would be located on Little Lake near the Art Gallery of Peterborough, would consist of around 100 private residence and luxury rental suites.

Bennett has purchased a number of properties along Crescent Street for the development, which would need to be approved by city council.

The proposed building was designed by Michael Gallant of Lett Architects based on Bennett’s vision.

“The Ashburnham Crescent street development is responding to the growing desire for housing options that cater to a more urban lifestyle in a central location,” Gallant says. “The design is inspired by its proximity to Little Lake, with plans to reclaim a section of Crescent street to provide new public park space, trail connections, and the potential to naturalize the shoreline.”

Bennett says the development would help meet a known demand for high-end accommodation in Peterborough, but acknowledges it will not address the issue of apartment affordability.

“We are working with a local housing provider to create a cool affordable project close to the core,” he says. “We hope to announce this project and timing before Christmas.”

 

Kawartha Chamber announces finalists for 2018 Business Awards of Excellence

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism's 2018 business Awards of Excellence will be presented on November 8, 2018 at a gala event at Lakefield College School. (Photo: Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism)

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism’s 2018 business Awards of Excellence will be presented on November 8, 2018 at a gala event at Lakefield College School. (Photo: Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism)

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism has announced the finalists for its 2018 Business Awards of Excellence.

The Chamber received more than 80 nominations were received for the awards, which will be presented at the 19th Annual Awards of Excellence & Social Gala on Thursday, November 8th at Lakefield College School. Tickets can be purchased at kawarthachamber.ca or by calling 705-652-6963.

Commercial Development or Renovation (sponsored by BALL Real Estate Inc., Brokerage)

  • Jack’s Lake Lodge
  • Lock Stop Cafe
  • The Cozy Home
  • The Regency of Lakefield

Customer Service Excellence (sponsored by CIBC)

  • Happenstance Books & Yarns
  • Logan Tree Experts
  • The Regency of Lakefield
  • Village Pet Food & Supply

Entrepreneur Innovation (sponsored by Gastle Registered Patent Agents)

  • kawarthaNOW
  • Molly’s Acres
  • Thirteen Moons Wellness
  • Vetterview

Not-for-Profit Excellence (sponsored by Darling Insurance)

  • Community Care
  • Cuddles for Cancer
  • Peterborough Humane Society

Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Nexicom)

  • Happenstance Books & Yarns
  • Style Boutique
  • Trinkets & Treasures

Service Sector Excellence (sponsored by Herod Financial Services)

  • Kawartha Lakes Construction
  • Lakefield Herald
  • The Regency of Lakefield

Tourism/Hospitality Excellence (sponsored by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development)

  • Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival
  • Indian River Reptile Zoo
  • Lang Pioneer Village Museum

    • Outstanding Business Achievement (sponsored by County of Peterborough)

    • Lakefield Foodland
    • Nightingale
    • Salon Sorella & Day Spa

    In addition, awards will be presented at the gala for Young Professional (sponsored by Community Futures Peterborough), Special Recognition (sponsored by ISL Insurance Brokers), Citizen of the Year (sponsored by RBC). The finalists for these awards are not announced in advance.

     

    Federal government invests more than $2 million in science and research at Trent University

    On October 9, 2018, Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef announced more than $2 million in funding for science research at Trent University. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)
    On October 9, 2018, Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef announced more than $2 million in funding for science research at Trent University. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)

    Last Tuesday (October 9), on behalf of the federal Minister of Science and Sport Kirsty Duncan, Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef announced an investment of more than $2 million to support fundamental research at Trent University.

    “Canada is a world leader in science, and the investments we are making today in Trent University will ensure researchers and students are able to pursue their dreams and come up with solutions to some of our most pressing challenges,” Monsef said. “Our investments show that Canada is serious about science.”

    The funding is part of the more than $558 million in Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) investments announced the same day for institutions across Canada as part of the Government of Canada’s plan to provide nearly 4,300 researchers and students with the means to pursue world-leading discovery work.

    This year, the NSERC Discovery Grants program is providing more than $5 million in supplements for early-career researchers, ensuring the next generation of scientists, engineers and researchers will have the tools they need to flourish. At Trent University, that includes Dr. Christina Davy, who is studying the ecological effects of resource development on threatened wildlife, and Dr. Ian Power, who is researching carbon dioxide capture and storage in mining operations.

    “I’m delighted to see this round of funding support three of our newest researchers at the university, among many other distinguished faculty,” said Trent University president and vice-chancellor Dr. Leo Groarke. “This NSERC funding helps emphasize our long-standing leadership in the environment and supports Trent’s emerging strengths in health sciences and agriculture.”

     

    Insects-as-food producer Entomo Farms is expanding

    Entomo Farms co-founder and V.P. of Operations Darren Goldin. (Supplied photo)
    Entomo Farms co-founder and V.P. of Operations Darren Goldin. (Supplied photo)

    Entomo Farms in Norwood, North America’s largest human-grade edible insect farm, is expanding with funding secured through Community Futures Peterborough and the Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII).

    The funding will allow Entomo Farms, which is supplying cricket powder to the Loblaw’s supermarket chain, to continue their growth through automation, increasing scale and process improvements. The expansion will grow their current workforce by 38 per cent within the next year.

    The interest in insects as food is growing steadily as consumers increasingly seek out alternatives to meat for protein.

     

    Shorelines Casino Peterborough is now open and Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs is temporarily closed

    Shorelines Casino Peterborough at 1400 Crawford Drive in Peterborough opens today (October 15th).

    The 50,000-square-foot casino features 500 slot machines, 222 live dealer table games such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, a Racebook, a live entertainment area, and a restaurant. The casino will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with tables open daily from noon until 4 a.m.

    The new casino employs 300 people, including 180 new employees who were hired as a result of a job fair in May. The other positions have been filled by employees transferred from Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs in Fraserville.

    With the opening of Shorelines Casino Peterborough, Shorelines Slots will be temporarily closed for approximately two weeks while the gaming area is reconfigured for 150 slot machines. Both facilities are owned by Ontario Gaming East LP.

    According to statements from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, local staff will be recalled once Shorelines Slots reopens and no employees will be laid off as a result of the closure.

     

    Cork & Bean now open in downtown Peterborough

    Steve Francis, co-owner of Cork & Bean, which opened in downtown Peterborough on October 9, 2018. (Photo: Maryam Monsef / Facebook)
    Steve Francis, co-owner of Cork & Bean, which opened in downtown Peterborough on October 9, 2018. (Photo: Maryam Monsef / Facebook)

    Cork & Bean opened in downtown Peterborough last Tuesday (October 9).

    Steve Francis and Delia Senra, co-owners of the former Natas Cafe, opened their new venture with Lorn Scanlon, owner of the Cork & Bean in Oshawa, a popular destination where you can get coffee, wine, and craft beer all at one location.

    Cork & Bean is located at 382 George Street in downtown Peterborough, a building owned by Scanlon just north of The Olde Stone Brewery. The new location is three buildings north of the former location of Natas Cafe, which was damaged by water after a fire in an adjoining building in 2017.

    The new restaurant features the same coffee and treats that were available at Natas Cafe, but will also feature a licensed bar serving craft beers and fine wine. The location will also be hosting workshops and events.

     

    Shoppers Drug Mart raising funds for women’s heart health at Peterborough Regional Health Centre

    Make a donation at one of five Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Peterborough and proceeds will help purchase six new ECG machines at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. (Photo: PRHC Foundation)

    Make a donation at one of five Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Peterborough and proceeds will help purchase six new ECG machines at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. (Photo: PRHC Foundation)

    Five Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Peterborough are raising funds to support women’s heart health at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC).

    On now and continuing until Friday, November 2nd, the “Growing Women’s Health” campaign will encourage Shoppers Drug Mart customers to make a donation. Proceeds will be given to the PRHC Foundation to help fund six new Electrocardiograph (ECG) machines for PRHC that are needed in 2019.

    “Women often don’t think of heart disease as a women’s health issue,” says PRHC Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Katy Shufelt. “However, it is the leading cause of premature death for Canadian women. ECG machines are a critical noninvasive diagnostic tool that provides us with immediate diagnostic results that allow us to determine the best course of treatment.”

    ECG machines are used in many areas of the hospital, from diagnosis of heart attacks, arrhythmias or abnormal heart patterns, to the operating room and emergency department. PRHC performed a total of 43,358 ECGs last year.

    Donations can be made by visiting any one of the following Shoppers Drug Mart locations until November 2nd: 1875 Lansdowne Street West, 741 Lansdowne Street West, 971 Chemong Road, 225 Charlotte Street, and 361 George Street.

    You can purchase a $1 leaf, a $5 butterfly, a $10 apple, or a a $50 bird. These are then proudly displayed in the store’s front window for the duration of the campaign, and all proceeds will go to the PRHC Foundation.

     

    Kawartha Lakes Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre hosts e-commerce seminar in Lindsay on October 16

    As part of Small Business Week, the Kawartha Lakes Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre is hosting an e-commerce seminar from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, October 16th in the Community Room at Lindsay Recreation Complex (133 Adelaide St. S., Lindsay).

    “Plan for Success: Top Tips for Starting Up An Online Store” will explore the important considerations when planning for your online store’s success.

    The seminar is free, but registration is requested at www.eventbrite.ca/e/top-tips-for-starting-up-an-online-store-tickets-50616724987.

     

    Rural Business Summit 2018 in Fraserville on October 16 and in Burleigh Falls on October 17

    Rural Business Summit

    As part of Small Business Week, Community Futures Peterborough and Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development are hosting a Rural Business Summit in two locations this October.

    The Rural Business Summit is for entrepreneurs, leaders, and movers and shakers who have big aspirations for their small communities in Peterborough & the Kawarthas.

    The Rural Business Summit in Fraseville takes place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 16th at Baxter Creek Golf Club (1702 Cedar Valley Rd, Fraserville), and in Burleigh Falls from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 17th at the Burleigh Falls Inn (4791 Ontario 28, Lakefield).

    On October 16th in Fraserville, the morning keynote speaker will be Danielle Rocheleau of Laridae Consulting with a presentation on “Building Opportunities in Rural Communities”. On October 17th in Burleigh Falls, the morning keynote speaker will be Erin Bury (named Marketing Magazine’s Top 30 Under 30) with a presentation on “The Blank Slate Effect: How to Use an Entrepreneurial Mindset to Win in Business”. (Note: due to unforeseen circumstances, Gregg McLachlan is no longer the morning keynote speaker at either summit).

    Both summits will include an afternoon panel discussion on Succession Planning with local experts Darryl Wade from Farm Life Financial, Matthew Savino from Savino HR Professionals, and Nicole Truman of Fox Law, as well as an opportunity for round table discussion with other rural business leaders from Peterborough & the Kawarthas, to explore challenges being faced by rural businesses, followed by a discussion of opportunities and objectives moving forward.

    Both events are free and include lunch, but seating is limited. Register in advance at ruralbizsummit-fraserville.eventbrite.ca or ruralbizsummit-burleigh.eventbrite.ca.

     

    Small Business Week Employee Retention and Engagement seminar in Haliburton on October 16

    As part of Small Business Week, the Haliburton County Development Corporation and Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce are hosting a seminar called “Getting the Most Out of Your Employees” from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, October 16th at Haliburton County Development Corporation (235 Highland St., Haliburton).

    Presented by management coach and consultant Greg Ostryhon, the seminar will provide participants with some innovative ideas to help owners and managers to increase productivity, reduce employee turnover, and increase profits for your business. Participants will leave with high-level tools and strategies they can apply to their businesses to allow for happier, more productive employees and a more smoothly run enterprise.

    Register at events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07efpgssjb857caadc.

     

    Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce hosts Small Business Week Breakfast in Lindsay on October 17

    The Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Small Business Week Breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, October 17th at Mackey’s Celebrations (35 Lindsay St. S., Lindsay).

    The guest speaker will be Dr. Brett Goodwin, Dean/Principal at the School of Environmental and Natural Resources Sciences at Fleming College, who will speak on the topic “Connecting Frost Campus with Your Business Community’. Dr. Goodwin will provide information about the Frost campus, their students, programs, and the connection between the college and the local business community.

    The breakfast costs $25 per person. Register at events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07efqc9eapecf5da1a&llr=kd7xv5vab.

     

    Peterborough DBIA Breakfast Network featuring John Kiru in Peterborough on October 17th

    John Kiru, Executive Director of the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas. (Photo: Tanja Tiziana)
    John Kiru, Executive Director of the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas. (Photo: Tanja Tiziana)

    This month’s Breakfast Network hosted by the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) takes place at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 17th at Empress Gardens (131 Charlotte St., Peterborough).

    John Kiru, Executive Director of the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas, is the guest speaker.

    Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. with the guest speaker at 8 a.m.

    The event is open to everyone, and tickets are $5 at the door.

     

    VCCS Employment Services hosts an employment law seminar in Lindsay on October 17

    As part of Small Business Week, VCCS Employment Services is hosting an employment law seminar from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 17th at their offices at 370 Kent St. W. in Lindsay.

    Following networking and refreshments, Mark Marson (Barrister & Solicitor with Hicks Morley) will speak on several topics including what employers need to know about Bill 148, liability insurance versus WSIB, navigating Ministry of Labour complaints and lawsuits, cannabis/vaping in the workplace, and termination with cause and without cause.

    The seminar costs $25 per person. To register, call 705-328-0180 or email dawn@vccs.work.

     

    Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce host social media photography session in Coboconk on October 17

    As part of Small Business Week, Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting “Make More Money: Increase your sales by taking better photos for social media” from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 17th at the Coboconk Train Station.

    In this two-hour session, you will learn how to take and select the best photos for the greatest impact. No experience necessary to attend. Bring your phone, existing pictures, and enthusiasm.

    For more information and to register, call 705-454-1110 or email jwilson@coboconknorland.ca.

     

    Peterborough Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards in Peterborough on October 17

    The 2018 Peterborough Business Excellence Awards takes place on Wednesday, October 17th at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough), with a reception at 6:30 p.m. and the awards ceremony at 7:30 p.m.

    Awards will be presented for Business Citizen of the Year, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Skilled Trades, Tourism, Retail, Professional Services, Customer First, Local Focus, Innovation / Research & Development, Commercial Development or Renovation, Marketing & Promotion, Environmental Practices, Health & Wellness, Not-for-Profit, Employer of the Year, Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year, Micro Business – Less than 5 employees, and Hospitality. Business Student Leadership Prizes and 4-under-40 Profiles will also be recognized.

    Tickets are $40+HST and include one complimentary beverage and light hors d’oeuvres.

    For tickets and a list of the finalists, visit www.excellencepeterborough.ca.

     

    Kawartha Lakes Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre hosts seminar on cyber-security and small business in Lindsay on October 18

    As part of Small Business Week, the Kawartha Lakes Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre is hosting a seminar on cyber-security and small business from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, October 18 in the lower level meeting room at Lindsay Library (190 Kent St. W., Lindsay).

    Facilitated by Graeme Barrie of Netmechanics.ca, the seminar will explore best practices for keeping a small business safe, secure, and backed up. You will learn more about cyber-security risks, how to cost-effectively protect your business, and when it’s time to involve a a cyber-security professional.

    The seminar is free, but registration is requested at www.eventbrite.ca/e/cyber-security-and-small-business-what-you-need-to-know–tickets-50780934141

     

    Small Business Week financial success seminar in Haliburton on October 18

    As part of Small Business Week, the Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting a seminar called “Roadmap to Financial Success” from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 18th at the Chamber’s offices (195 Highland St., Haliburton).

    Presented by Kyle Brewer of K. Brewer Financial, the workshop will provide participants with a review of the business cycles and an assessment of where they are at in the realm of the financial wellness. Participants will be given the opportunity to create their own customized roadmap to financial success that can be applied to their business operations.

    Register at events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07efpgtvbmd75c679e.

     

    Five speakers at multimedia channel workshop in Peterborough on October 18

    Peterborough's Multimedia Channel Workshop

    Sofie Andreou & Associates is hosting “Peterborough’s Multimedia Channel Workshop” from 2 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 18th in the boardroom at the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce (175 George St. N., Peterborough).

    The workshop — which covers radio, television, newspaper, and digital — features five speakers: Janet Di Bello, Broadcast and Digital Account Executive; Jeffery Jones, Peterborough Examiner Account Manager; Jeannine Taylor, Founder and Publisher of kawarthaNOW.com; Brenda O’Brien, General Sales Manager, Global News; and host Sofie Andreou.

    The workshop costs $59+HST. Register at www.sofieandreou.com/fall2018workshops.

     

    Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce hosts Small Business Week Social in Bobcaygeon on October 18

    The Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Small Business Week Social from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 18th at Kawartha Coffee Company (58 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon).

    The Chamber event will feature local business owners as guest speakers, light refreshments, and an opportunity to renew your Chamber membership for 2019.

    The event is free for 2019 Chamber members and $25 for non-members.

    To register, call 705-731-1107 or email kawarthamediums@gmail.com.

     

    Kawartha Lakes 2018 Innovation Day and Innovation Awards in Lindsay on October 19

    Culminating Small Business Week in the City of Kawartha Lakes, the Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corporation and Kawartha Lakes Business and Community Development Corporation are hosting the 2018 Innovation Day and Innovation Awards from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 19th at Lindsay Golf and Country Club (282 Lindsay St. S., Lindsay).

    The event begins with a presentation by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) on this year’s Small Business Week theme of “Digitize Now – Transform Your Business”. After a luncheon in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lindsay, the annual Small Business Innovation Awards will be presented, followed by a keynote address by MPP and Ontario Minister of Labour Laurie Scott.

    The cost is $20 per person. Register at www.eventbrite.ca/e/innovation-day-tickets-50742460064.

     

    Small Business Week website accessibility seminar in Haliburton on October 19

    As part of Small Business Week, the Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting a website accessibility seminar from noon to 1 p.m. on Friday, October 19 at the Chamber’s offices (195 Highland St., Haliburton).

    Presented by Loran Upton of Scotiabank, the workshop will provide participants with a holistic review of web accessibility issues, increase awareness of the need to be accessible online, and provide some assessment tests for participants to check their own websites.

    Register at events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07efpgv0yx2e479849.

     

    Application deadline for Pitch It! entrepreneurial competition for Trent University and Fleming College students is October 19

    Pitch It!

    The application deadline for the the fourth annual Pitch It! competition for aspiring entrepreneurs from Trent University and Fleming College students is midnight on Friday, October 19th.

    Up to five finalists will be invited to pitch their ideas before a panel of industry judges at Trent University’s Symons campus in a Dragons’ Den style competition. Participating students can win $500, meet other like-minded entrepreneurs, and receive help to bring their innovative idea to market.

    For more information and to apply, visit www.innovationcluster.ca/2017/09/pitch-it-2018/.

    The top 10 finalists will be announced on November 8th, and the final pitch competition (which is open to the public) takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, November 15th. The event will showcase three contestants from the following business categories pitching an idea: Clean & Agriculture Technology, Trades and Retail Business and Information Technology / Media & Gaming. FastStart has also added a new category allowing high school students to compete for a prize.

     

    Women’s Expo Peterborough on October 24

    Women's Expo Peterborough

    The first-ever Women’s Expo Peterborough. a business-to-business trade show and networking event, takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24th at the Peterborough Naval Association (24 Whitlaw St., Peterborough)

    The expo will include 25 booth vendors representing all types of women business owners including lawyers, naturopathic practitioner, social media specialists, massage therapists, retail, financial, psychologists, farmers, and more.

    There will also be two stations where people can be seated to view a presentation from the exhibitors and ask questions about the products and strategies discussed.

    Admission is free with a donation to the YWCA Crossroads Shelter.

     

    Scotiabank presents Business Boot Camp on October 24

    Scotiabank is presenting a business boot camp from 7 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24th at its office at 111 Hunter St. W., Peterborough.

    The event will feature accountant Robert Gauvreau, lawyer John Mesec, and experts from Scotia Wealth Management.

    Attendees are encouraged to bring in questions to ask during one-on-one sessions.

     

    Innovation Cluster presents exit strategies workshop in Peterborough on October 25

    Hands-ON Exit Strategies

    The Innovation Cluster’s next “Hands-ON” workshop will be on exit strategies and takes place from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 24th at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough).

    Nicole Stephenson, partner with Stikeman Keeley Spiegel LLP, will talk about exit strategies for entrepreneurs, including initial public offerings, mergers or acquisitions, and reverse takeovers. Stephenson, a corporate and securities lawyer in Toronto, has extensive experience working with emerging growth companies across North America to implement their exit strategies.

    This workshop will be held in the large boardroom on the ground floor of VentureNorth. The event is free to attend, but registration is requested at www.eventbrite.com/e/hands-on-exit-strategies-tickets-49178315666.

     

    Innovation Cluster hosts “Power Breakfast: Gen Y – How Millennials Are Shaping The Future” on October 26

    The Innovation Cluster is hosting “Power Breakfast: Gen Y – How Millennials Are Shaping The Future” from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, October 26th in the Garden Court at the Holiday Inn Waterfront (150 George St. N., Peterborough).

    Presented by Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII), the breakfast will feature Dr. Kate Withers, Business Development Manager for Central Ontario from Ontario Centres of Excellence, and three local entrepreneurs: Dylan Trepanier (Alexander Optical), Bianca Nucaro (NV Media Productions), and Mercedez Nucaro-Viteri (NV Media Productions).

    The event is free, but seating is limited and you must register in advance at www.eventbrite.com/e/power-breakfast-gen-y-how-millennials-are-shaping-the-future-tickets-49179200312.

     

    Application deadline for Cubs’ Lair Entrepreneurship Competition is October 27

    Young entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas will pitch their business to a panel of judges at the Gordon Best Theatre in downtown Peterborough on November 22, 2018 during the fourth annual Cubs' Lair entrepreneurship competition, with a prize package valued up to $10,00. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)
    Young entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas will pitch their business to a panel of judges at the Gordon Best Theatre in downtown Peterborough on November 22, 2018 during the fourth annual Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurship competition, with a prize package valued up to $10,000. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)

    The application deadline for the 2018 Cubs’ Lair Entrepreneurship Competition is Saturday, October 27th.

    An initiative of FastStart Peterborough, the Innovation Cluster, and the Trent Youth Entrepreneurship Society, Cubs’ Lair gives entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 29 the chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes, including office space and equipment, coaching and mentoring, social media promotion, and more.

    After applying online, participants will attend a series of three mandatory workshops at the Innovation Cluster that will help them build skills in creating a business model canvas, financing, marketing, and preparing their pitch to a panel of judges.

    The top five finalists will be announced on Friday, November 9th, with the final pitch event takeing place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 22nd at the Gordon Best Theatre in downtown Peterborough. A panel of established business professionals will test competitors’ knowledge of how they will grow the business and judge the best pitch.

    For more information, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit www.innovationcluster.ca/programs/cubslair/.

     

    Kawartha Chamber Awards of Excellence and Social Gala in Lakefield on November 8

    Kawartha Chamber 19th Annual Awards of Excellence and Social Gala,

    The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting its 2018 Awards of Excellence and Social Gala at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 8th at Lakefield College School (4391 County Rd. 29, Lakefield).

    Unlike previous years, the format for this year’s presentation will be a social gala format, with a reception taking place at Upper Hadden Hall followed by the awards presentatins in the Bryan Jones Theatre.

    There will be both silent and live auction items, light hor d’oeuvres, cash bar, music from Rhythm & Grace, and time for socialization and networking before the awards.

    Tickets are $40 per person, which includes the hor d’oeuvres and one drink ticket.

    Register at business.kawarthachamber.ca/events/details/awards-of-excellence-social-gala-7165.

     

    Application deadline for Win This Space 2019 entrepreneurial competition is November 16

    The Win This Space entrepreneurial competition is returning for its third year in 2019. (Photo: Peterborough DBIA)
    The Win This Space entrepreneurial competition is returning for its third year in 2019. (Photo: Peterborough DBIA)

    Entrepreneurs have until Friday, November 16th to put together a video application and submit it to the 2019 Win This Space competition, an initiative of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area in partnership with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development, Community Futures Peterborough, and Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs.

    The top 10 finalists will take several workshops to fine-tune their business plans before a winner is chosen on March 5th by a panel of judges.

    The winner will then have their choice of available participating downtown locations free for one year. To cover rent payments, several sponsors are adopting a month and contributing $2,000 toward each month’s lease.

    Visit winthisspace.com for the rules and regulations and application instructions.

    Police release photos of two suspects in Fenelon Falls thefts

    By kawarthaNOW -
    Kawartha Lakes OPP are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the GMC Sierra pick-up truck and two suspects, the female driver and male passenger, shown in these photos. (Supplied photos)

    Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying two people and a vehicle that eluded police and are suspected to be involved in a series of thefts from Fenelon Falls over the weekend.

    On Sunday morning (October 14), officers with the City of Kawartha Lakes Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were on patrol in the Bobcaygeon observed a pickup truck that matched the description of a vehicle connected to multiple thefts in Fenelon Falls on Saturday.

    Officers attempted to stop the truck using standard emergency lights and equipment, but the driver of the truck failed to comply with the roadside stop and instead increased speed and headed north towards the Village of Kinmount.

    In a joint effort, OPP officers from the Haliburton Highlands and City of Kawartha Lakes detachments attempted to safely stop the truck to identify the female driver and the male passenger.

    An OPP helicopter was also called to assist road officers with tracking the location of the truck. Two OPP vehicles were damaged while trying to stop the fleeing truck. One unit sustained tire damage after it ran over a spike belt and the second was involved in a minor collision with the suspect vehicle.

    The suspect vehicle, which eluded police, was last observed north of Fenelon Falls.

    Police are seeking a black, mid-2000s GMC Sierra extended cab step side pickup truck, with a blue tarp covering the back portion of the cab. The truck will likely have collision damage to the left rear box panel on the driver’s side.

    Through further investigation, police have obtained and released photos of the two suspects, the female driver and male passenger.

    Anyone having information on this crime is asked to contact the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Information can also be reported anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or by visiting the Kawartha Lakes-Haliburton Crime Stoppers websie at www.khcs.ca and submitting an anonymous tip online.

    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef’s busy week ends with an issue-ranging chat

    By Paul Rellinger -
    Minister of Status of Women Maryam Monsef with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the 2017 announcement of the Women Deliver Conference, to be held in 2019 in Vancouver. The Peterborough-Kawartha MP sat down with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger on October 12, 2018 for a chat on a range of issues. (Photo: Women Deliver)

    With the third anniversary of her tenure as Peterborough-Kawartha MP fast approaching, Maryam Monsef’s excitement for the difference she feels she can make is as clear as the day she was elected.

    Speaking over lunch Friday (October 12) at the Speak Easy Café in downtown Peterborough, the 33-year-old Liberal Cabinet member — she was appointed Minister of Status of Women in January 2017 — touched on several topics while making clear her intention to seek re-election next year.

    “We’ve accomplished a lot together but we still have a lot more work to do … I’m up for the task,” said Monsef, noting she will allow her name to again stand for nomination as the local federal Liberal candidate.

    Not surprisingly, much of Monsef’s optimism for what’s ahead, and her clear pride in what has transpired, is rooted in the empowerment of women and young girls across the country. To that end, last Thursday (October 11) she was immersed in International Day of the Girl events here in the riding.

    First marked in 2012, the United Nations-declared observance supports more opportunity for girls and increases awareness of gender equality on a global scale. Locally, the day saw Monsef attend both Westmount Public School and Thomas A. Stewart Second School for town hall-style assemblies, as well as host a roundtable at her Bethune Street office with a group of girls ranging in age from 6 to 14 years old.

    Peterborough-Kawartha MP and Minister of Status of Women Maryam Monsef speaks to a student assembly at Westmount Public School in Peterborough on October 11, 2018 during International Day of the Girl. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)
    Peterborough-Kawartha MP and Minister of Status of Women Maryam Monsef speaks to a student assembly at Westmount Public School in Peterborough on October 11, 2018 during International Day of the Girl. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)

    “When we asked them ‘What does it mean to be a girl?’, a lot of their responses were about how important it is for them to be seen, to be heard, to be recognized, for there to be fairness … that girls can do the things that boys can do,” noted Monsef.

    “We would do well to listen to girls and include boys in the conversation. Our girls are confident, they’re compassionate and they want to get things done. Theirs is the smartest generation to have ever lived; the most powerful generation. I tell them this over and over again.

    “They have access to this (points to her cell phone). The world is at their fingertips. They make a world of difference when they’re supported. That’s inspiring to me. That’s hopeful for me. They give me great ideas and they’re a reminder of how important it is to work with them.”

    Noting how important is that young girls have mentors, Monsef is taking action in that regard, organizing and hosting the inaugural Peterborough-Kawartha Women’s Leadership Awards on Saturday, October 27th at 7:30 p.m. at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough.

    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef, pictured at the Lakefield Literary Festival, is presenting the inaugural Peterborough-Kawartha Women's Leadership Awards at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on October 27, 2018. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)
    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef, pictured at the Lakefield Literary Festival, is presenting the inaugural Peterborough-Kawartha Women’s Leadership Awards at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on October 27, 2018. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)

    Awards presented will highlight nominees’ achievements in such areas as entrepreneurship, environmental stewardship and poverty eradication, with one receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award. While nominees won’t be revealed until the event, kawarthaNOW.com founder and publisher Jeannine Taylor is among them. Of particular note, each nominee, as well as audience members, are asked to bring a youth along.

    “The purpose of the awards is to recognize and highlight the work of great women in our community so that little girls and little boys hear and see role models to whom they can look up to,” said Monsef, adding, “We know one of the best ways to make great leaders is to showcase leaders they can relate to.”

    Referencing her own experience, Monsef said role models were pivotal in making her aim higher.

    “Whatever I’ve achieved in my life, whatever opportunities and doors opened for me, whatever challenges I’ve had, they have brought me to this moment in time,” she said.

    “None of that would have been possible without the support of mentors and champions who genuinely cared about me; who took the time to invest in me and pick me up when I had fallen and encouraged me to pursue big ideas and big dreams and to help me make them happen. I come to this work with an understanding of the responsibility I have to pave the path for others in the same way that it was done for me.

    “I also recognize that I’m part of the movement that is much bigger than me. A movement that existed long before I got here and will exist long after I’m gone. The more boys and girls and gender diversity are part of that movement, the more we all try to lead by example, the better our world is. It’s a responsibility I do take seriously.”

    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef visiting with former Liberal MP and MPP Peter Adams, who passed away on September 28, 2018 at age 82 following a lengthy battle with cancer. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)
    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef visiting with former Liberal MP and MPP Peter Adams, who passed away on September 28, 2018 at age 82 following a lengthy battle with cancer. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)

    On Saturday (October 13), Monsef was in a packed St. John’s Anglican Church, honouring the memory of one of her most influential mentors: former Peterborough MP Peter Adams, who died on September 28th at age 82 following a battle with cancer.

    “He was my MP, he was my friend, he was my mentor, and then he was my constituent,” she said, no shortage of awe in her voice.

    “I first met Peter at Confederation Park. I was in high school at PCVS and was outside with some friends. He was in his hot pink shorts, jogging as so many of us remember him. He stopped and came and talked to us. He took the time to give us young people the time of the day and answer questions.

    “When I got elected, we stayed connected. Who wouldn’t want that kind of guidance? Who wouldn’t want a great mind to help you navigate the learning curve? We have a similar Canadian story. We both came to Peterborough as immigrants, Trent is a part of both our stories, he tried to save PCVS and that fight was a big part of my political journey. We both appreciate and love a community that’s given us so much. But he did more than just love it. He served with all his heart. His legacy is profound and we’re all better because of him.”

    In what proved to be a very busy week for Monsef, she dropped by Trent University last Tuesday (October 9) to announce $2.4 million in funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) to support research on topics ranging from Alzheimer’s resistant memories to the ecological impacts of human landscape use.

    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef visiting a lab at Trent University on October 9, 2018 following the announcement on October 9, 2018 of $2.4 million in federal funding for science research at the university. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)
    Peterborough-Kawartha MP Maryam Monsef visiting a lab at Trent University on October 9, 2018 following the announcement on October 9, 2018 of $2.4 million in federal funding for science research at the university. (Photo: Office of Maryam Monsef)

    “Great ideas come from small communities,” said Monsef. “Any investment in research is good but for a community like ours that depends on Trent doing well, it’s good for our economy. It’s part of the $120 million worth of investments that I’ve been proud to see come to our community since I got elected.”

    “These dollars don’t just show up on their own. There is a lot of competition for them. It takes smart collaborations between myself and my team and, most important, the effort and persistence of the people putting the applications (for funding) together.”

    Looking ahead, two developments coming to fruition on the near horizon — the legalization of recreational marijuana this Wednesday (October 17) and the election of a new Peterborough city council on Monday, October 22nd — are catching Monsef’s attention.

    “This (marijuana legalization) is important for our communities because our kids will be safer, and our communities will be safer, because the money will no longer go to fund organized crime,” said Monsef.

    “The evidence is overwhelmingly clear. The current approach on prohibition is not working. Canada’s kids have access and use marijuana more than most developed countries. Our kids are already getting this stuff unfortunately. Not only that but the stuff they’re buying from criminal organizations is untested. We don’t know the safety of the stuff they’re buying.”

    “With regulation and legalization comes strict rules. It’s actually going to be harder for kids to buy this stuff. It’s actually going to be a much greater penalty for selling to young people or selling it around areas where young people congregate. I know no one in our community wants our kids to pay criminals for a substance that no one can trust.”

    As for the municipal election, Monsef is particularly pleased that a number of women are seeking election, including mayoral candidate Dianne Therrien. It was just four years ago that Monsef — a political neophyte — made her own bid for the mayor’s chair, losing by just 1,331 votes to incumbent Daryl Bennett.

    If Monsef has a preference for who will lead the City of Peterborough politically over the next four years, she isn’t saying but the inference is clear.

    “Just 18 per cent of mayors in Canada are women,” she pointed out.

    “I’m absolutely following it (the election). Whoever gets elected will have a seat around that table and have a voice that will determine the future of the city. It will also determine the way we work together to achieve desired outcomes for everyone.”

    Husband-and-wife duo Raine Maida and Chantal Kreviazuk are making sweet music together

    By Josh Fewings -
    Canadian musical couple Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida are bringing their musical collaboration "Moon vs. Sun" to Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on October 23, 2018. (Publicity photo)

    One of Canada’s most influential musical couples, Raine Maida and Chantal Kreviazuk are bringing their latest musical collaboration, Moon vs. Sun, to the main stage at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough on Tuesday, October 23rd.

    Showplace presents
    Moon vs. Sun – Raine Maida & Chantal Kreviazuk

    When: Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 8 p.m.
    Where: Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough)
    How much: $53

    Tickets available at the Showplace Box Office, by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org.

    The Winnipeg-born Kreviazuk is a singer-songwriter, pianist, and actress who released her critically acclaimed full-length debut album, Under These Rocks and Stones, in 1996. Since then, she has released five more studio albums, earning five Juno Award nominations and winning Best Female Artist and Best Pop Album in 2000 for Colour Moving And Still.

    Maida is best known as the lead singer and primary songwriter for the rock band Our Lady Peace, which has garnered 25 Juno Award nominations, winning Rock Album of the Year in 1988 for Clumsy and again in 2003 for Gravity.

    Maida, who was born in Weston, Ontario, also embarked on a solo career in 2006. (He changed his given name from Michael to Raine in 1991 to avoid confusion with fellow Our Lady Peace member Michael Turner).

    Married in 1999, Kreviazuk and Maida are also recognized for their social activist work both in Canada and internationally. They support War Child Canada, and received the 2014 Allan Waters Humanitarian Award that recognizes outstanding Canadian artists whose contributions have positively enhanced the social fabric of Canada. In 2014, the couple was jointly appointed to the Order of Canada.

    VIDEO: “I Love It When You Make Me Beg” – Moon vs. Sun

    Along with pursuing their own musical careers, the couple has been co-writing songs for other artists since they’ve been together, including Kelly Clarkson, Drake, Gwen Stefani, Avril Lavigne, and Carrie Underwood. In 2014, Kreviazuk and Maida co-wrote a tune called “I Love It When You Make Me Beg”, which inspired them to carry on further with a collaborative musical project.

    “It was one of those incredible moments,” Kreviazuk says in a phone interview. “A late night in the studio and a song was born. It was a watershed moment for us. We both felt like, ‘Wow, this is really special!’ And we need to actually go and do this.”

    The couple decided to write more songs together, to be performed together, and Moon vs. Sun was born.

    To work on the tunes, the two musicians agreed they should get away somewhere and they ended up in the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, just south of Newfoundland. This would seem to be a perfect way to spur creativity and to cement some songs — however, Kreviazuk and Maida have three young boys who remained in Canada.

    Kreviazuk and Maida wrote the songs for the upcoming "Moon vs. Sun" album on the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, just south of Newfoundland. It was a difficult decision for the married couple, whose three young children remained behind in Canada so the couple could write without distraction. (Publicity photo)
    Kreviazuk and Maida wrote the songs for the upcoming “Moon vs. Sun” album on the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, just south of Newfoundland. It was a difficult decision for the married couple, whose three young children remained behind in Canada so the couple could write without distraction. (Publicity photo)

    Kreviazuk says that being so far away from their sons was really difficult, but ultimately the songs that came from that time were worth it. To her, the songs and that time away now have a deeper meaning.

    “It’ll be a gift to us every time we get to go out and play [those songs] together,” she says.

    Maida agrees, saying the trip was essential in building their repertoire, despite missing their children.

    “We were torn,” he admits. “But some of the music that was made there and written there is really profound for what Moon versus Sun is going to be moving forward.”

    Kreviazuk and Maida were essentially left to songwriting in a small hotel room far from home. They decided to film the process of working on the songs, a documentary that will accompany the album release. Maida suggests that the documentary will be an interesting look into the process and the struggles that can accompany songwriting, especially with a loved one.

    “We just never had time,” he says. “We’d go into the studio to write and we’d hear our kids fighting or other things, and we’d literally never get things done. So the film highlights us leaving home to work on it, and the process we went through to build those songs.”

    VIDEO: Moon vs. Sun Music Teaser

    Musically, Moon Vs. Sun is quite different from their own previous work. Kreviazuk describes it as a maturing approach, as they both departed a little bit from older versions of themselves.

    “It was a bit like hitting a reset button for both of us,” she explains. “We get to be who we are now, and we get to explore our influences that we have become curious about and inspired by in recent years.”

    For Maida, who has been in the rock world for a majority of his musical life, this is a great opportunity to let the songs breathe.

    “I love that there’s a lot of space,” he says. “It’s essentially acoustic instrumentations, which creates a lot of dynamics and space, whereas {Our Lady Peace) is a lot more full blast.”

    While the concert at Showplace will be centered upon the new record, a lot of their back catalog will also appear in the show.

    “We do amazing version of each other’s songs and the new material is really inspiring and we enjoy playing it,” Kreviazuk explains.

    Instrumentally, the couple will be joined by a cellist and a drummer, and there will also be a full light and video show.

    The Moon vs. Sun concert takes place at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 23rd at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough). Tickets are $53 and are available in person at the Showplace Box Office, by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org.

    Section of Jackson Creek Trail to be closed this fall for bridge replacement

    By kawarthaNOW -
    The four-kilometre Jackson Creek Trail in the heart of Peterborough is a popular destination for local residents. Otonabee Conservation is conducting tree removal and bridge restoration work along the trail in October 2018. (Photo: Otonabee Conservation)

    If you’re one of the many Peterborough residents who walk, run or cycle along the popular Jackson Creek Trail, you’ll want to be aware of some work being done along the trail this fall.

    Otonabee Conversation is advising of a couple of projects taking place along the trail, one of which will result in a partial closure of the trail at the end of October.

    The first project, which begins on Tuesday, October 16th, involves the removal of trees on Jackson Creek that are preventing Otonabee Conservation from properly monitoring watershed conditions, followed by the planting of replacement trees.

    The trees that will be removed are interfering with the operation of a hydrometeorological monitoring station, according to a media release from Otonabee Conversation.

    “The station provides data and information about precipitation, stream flow, and water levels within the Jackson Creek subwatershed,” explains Dan Marinigh, Chief Administrative Officer for Otonabee Conservation. “This data and information is critical to our watershed management program, specifically in the forecasting of high water levels and early warning of floods as well as the monitoring of low water and drought conditions.”

    The conservation authority has been issued a permit to remove the selected trees in accordance with the City of Peterborough’s Tree and Woodland Conservation By-law. The work will be done by Logan Tree Experts, and should be completed by Friday, October 19th. The tree removal will not prevent recreational use of Jackson Creek Trail, but trail users should exercise caution while the work is being done.

    Otonabee Conversation will be planting 52 new trees to replace the ones that have been removed.

    “A mix of Eastern White Cedar and Poplar will be planted with the help of local high school students,” Marinigh says. “The planting project will be completed by the end of October.”

    The second project involves the replacement of one of the four bridges that span Jackson Creek along the length of the four-kilometre trail. The most westerly bridge, known as #2017, is being replaced because of the deteriorating abutments and wing walls that support the bridge. Because of its poor condition, the bridge has been closed to vehicular traffic since 2014.

    The work will involve the installation of erosion control measures, removal of the existing bridge and footings, construction of new bridge footings, and placement of the new bridge. Drain Bros. Excavating Limited will be doing the work, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 29th.

    Bridge #2017, located near Ackison Road along the Jackson Creek Trail, is being replaced this fall. While the bridge is being replaced, beginning on October 29, 2018, the trail will be closed for one kilometre between Bridge #2017 and Bridge #2009. (Map: Otonabee Conservation)
    Bridge #2017, located near Ackison Road along the Jackson Creek Trail, is being replaced this fall. While the bridge is being replaced, beginning on October 29, 2018, the trail will be closed for one kilometre between Bridge #2017 and Bridge #2009. (Map: Otonabee Conservation)

    While the bridge work is underway, a one-kilometre portion of Jackson Creek Trail between Ackison Road and bridge #2009 (commonly known as the orange bridge) will be closed to trail users.

    “We realize that the trail closure may be an inconvenience, but it is necessary in order to keep everyone safe during the construction period,” Marinigh says.

    Signs indicating the closure of the trail within the designated area and suggested detours will be installed by Saturday, October 13th. No information is available on how long the bridge replacement work will take.

    The replacement of bridge #2017 is part of a larger initiative over the next few years for trail maintenance. Some locations along the length of the trail require replacement of culverts and an application of new crushed stone, and the other three bridges need rehabilitation work.

    “Given the subdivision developments that are planned or underway directly north and south of the Jackson Creek Trail, the trail will see an increase in use in the coming years,” Marinigh says. “In order to meet the growing demand for recreational use of the trail, installation of the new bridge is timely, and additional repairs in other locations along the trail will need to be undertaken over the next few years.”

    Otonabee Conversation estimates the total cost of the bridge and trail repairs will be $400,000. While the Trans Canada Trail provided a grant for the engineering and design of the new bridge #2017 (the Jackson Creek Trail is designated as part of The Great Trail, formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail), Otonabee Conversation will be funding the rest of the work over the next five years.

    The conservation authority says that anyone who wishes to make a charitable financial gift to support the Jackson Creek Trail improvements can do so online at www.otonabeeconservation.com or by visiting the Otonabee Conservation office located at 250 Milroy Drive in Peterborough.

    nightlifeNOW – October 11 to 17

    By kawarthaNOW -
    Toronto fingerstyle guitarist and singer-songwriter Po' Boy Jeffreys (aka Jeffrey Dodman) returns to Peterborough to perform his country blues, folk, and ragtime with Dayna Pirso at a special Sunday evening show at the Black Horse in downtown Peterborough on Sunday, October 14th. (Photo: Les Dodman)

    Every Thursday, we publish live music and performance events at pubs and clubs in Peterborough and The Kawarthas based on information that venues provide to us directly or post on their website or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, October 11 to Wednesday, October 17.

    If you’re a pub or club owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, please email our Nightlife Editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com.

    ARIA
    Arlington Pub
    Arthur's Pub
    Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub
    Black Horse Pub
    Boathouse Cafe at Golden Beach Resort
    Boiling Over's Coffee Vault
    The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg
    Champs Sports Bar
    Chemong Lodge
    The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse
    Coach & Horses Pub
    The Cow & Sow Eatery
    Dominion Hotel
    Dreams of Beans
    Frank's Pasta and Grill
    Ganaraska Hotel
    The Garnet
    Golden Wheel Restaurant
    Gordon Best Theatre
    Hot Belly Mama's
    Junction Nightclub
    Marley's Bar & Grill
    McGillicafey's Pub & Eatery
    McThirsty's Pint
    Moody's Bar & Grill
    Oasis Bar & Grill
    Pastry Peddler
    Publican House Brewery
    Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
    Red Dog Tavern
    Riley's
    Sapphire Room
    The Social
    Southside Pizzeria
    The Trend
    The Twisted Wheel
    The Venue
    White House Hotel

    ARIA

    331 George St. N., Peterborough
    (705) 743-0333

    Thursday, October 11

    9pm - NoNeon & Never Jaded present NoNeon Peterborough w/ Hunter Siegel, Botnek, Chuurch, Pray First

    Friday, October 12

    10pm - Tequilafest

    Saturday, October 13

    10pm - House Party

    Arlington Pub

    32990 Highway 62, Maynooth
    (613) 338-2080

    Saturday, October 13

    8pm - Oktoberfest 2018 ft Washboard Hank and Reverend Ken ($10)

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 20
    9pm - Mayhemingways w/ Little Fire

    Arthur's Pub

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

    Thursday, October 11

    8pm - Karaoke night

    Friday, October 12

    8-11pm - Shawn Nelson

    Saturday, October 13

    8-11pm - Shawn Nelson

    Sunday, October 14

    4:30-8pm - Celtic Afternoon with Dan Clancey

    Monday, October 15

    7-9pm - Rob Phillips

    Tuesday, October 16

    7:30pm - Beatles Tribute w/ Don Owen & Bruce Longman

    Wednesday, October 17

    8pm - Open mic

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 19
    8-11pm - Shaun Savoy

    Saturday, October 20
    8-11pm - Bruce Longman

    Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub

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

    Coming Soon

    Friday, November 30
    9pm - Knuckel Hed ($5)

    Black Horse Pub

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

    Thursday, October 11

    7:30-11:30pm - 5th Anniversary Party - Jazz and Blues w/ Marsala Lukianchuk and the Rob Phillips Trio

    Friday, October 12

    5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Pop Machine

    Saturday, October 13

    5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Game of Tones

    Sunday, October 14

    3pm - Tom Eastland Triage; 7pm - Po' Boy Jeffreys with Dayna Pirso

    VIDEO: "Saturday Night Rub" with Po' Boy Jefferys and Dayna Pirso

    Monday, October 15

    7-11pm - Crash and Burn w/ Rick & Gailie

    Tuesday, October 16

    7pm - The Randy Hill Band w/ Sean Hully

    Wednesday, October 17

    7pm - Nicholas Campbell & Friends

    Coming Soon

    Thursday, October 18
    7:30-11:30pm - Jazz and Blues w/ Marsala Lukianchuk and the Rob Phillips Trio

    Friday, October 19
    5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Broken Harmony

    Saturday, October 20
    5pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - 4 Lanes Wide

    Sunday, October 21
    3pm - 3/4 House Brand

    Boathouse Cafe at Golden Beach Resort

    7100 County Rd.18, Roseneath
    (905) 342-5366

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, November 10
    6-9pm - Morgan Rider

    Boiling Over's Coffee Vault

    148 Kent St. W., Lindsay
    (705) 878-8884

    Friday, October 12

    7pm - Looking For Heather Unplugged

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 19
    6-9pm - Open Mic Night hosted by Gerald Van Halteren

    Friday, October 26
    6-9pm - Marion Drexler Trio

    The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg

    38 Covert St., Cobourg
    (905) 377-9029

    Friday, October 12

    7pm - Cindy & Scott

    Champs Sports Bar

    203 Simcoe St., Peterborough
    (705) 742-3431

    Thursdays

    7pm - Open mic

    Chemong Lodge

    764 Hunter St., Bridgenorth
    (705) 292-8435

    Thursdays

    5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

    Fridays

    5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

    Wednesdays

    5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

    The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse

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

    Wednesday, October 17

    8pm - Whiskey Wednesday w/ Ken Tizzard

    Coach & Horses Pub

    16 York St. S., Lindsay
    (705) 328-0006

    Thursdays

    10pm - Open Mic w/ Gerald Vanhalteren

    Fridays

    9:30pm - Karaoke Night w/ DJ. Ross

    Wednesdays

    7-11pm - Live music

    The Cow & Sow Eatery

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

    Saturday, October 13

    8pm - Live On The Line

    Dominion Hotel

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

    Wednesday, October 17

    7:30pm - Poets in the Pub

    Dreams of Beans

    138 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
    (705) 742-2406

    Wednesday, October 17

    8pm - Jazz Night with Marsala Lukianchuk & The Imports

    Frank's Pasta and Grill

    426 King St. E., Cobourg
    (905) 372-2727

    Friday, October 12

    9pm-12am - Karaoke; 12am - DJ

    Saturday, October 13

    8pm - The Spirits; 11:30pm - DJ

    Wednesday, October 17

    8-11pm - Open Mic

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 20
    8pm - Steve Bebee and The Heebee Jeebees; 11:30pm - DJ

    Ganaraska Hotel

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

    Saturday, October 13

    2pm & 10pm - Night Quarters

    Wednesday, October 17

    8pm - Comedy Night - 'Tokin Around' Celebrating Legalization of Pot ft Paul Haywood w/ Ian Sirota and Neil Griffin ($20, in advance at https://tokinaround.eventbrite.ca)

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 20
    2pm & 10pm - The Nomads

    The Garnet

    231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
    (705) 874-0107

    Thursday, October 11

    CANCELLED - 9pm - Pat Maloney

    Friday, October 12

    5-7pm - Forselli Friday ft Andrew Stoeten; 9pm - Ford Pier and NQ Arbuckle (solo)

    Saturday, October 13

    Stephen Stanley (Lowest Of The Low), Chris Bennett

    Sunday, October 14

    9pm - Brighter Green w/ The Wrong Brothers ($10)

    Monday, October 15

    9pm - The Faps w/ Peace Sand Rest ($10)

    Tuesday, October 16

    9pm - Sarah Siddiqui and Emma Cook ($10)

    Wednesday, October 17

    9:30pm - Rap Club 7: ft garbageface, Danger Grove, Awards, Mean Joe Tunes ($8)

    Coming Soon

    Thursday, October 18
    9pm - Collette Savard and The Savants

    Friday, October 19
    5-7pm - Forselli Friday ft Josh Fewings; 8pm - Deeps w/ Ben Rough ($8 or PWYC)

    Saturday, October 20
    Aye Teeth, Beef Boys, Flesh Rag

    Golden Wheel Restaurant

    6725 Highway 7, Peterborough
    (705) 749-6838

    Thursday, October 11

    7-9pm - Pop Country Line Dancing Lessons w/ Tina O'Rourke (beginner plus to intermediate, $7)

    Wednesday, October 17

    7-9pm - Line Dancing Lessons w/ Marlene Maskell ($7 per person, all levels welcome)

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 27
    7pm - Halloween Party ft Rye Street ($25 or $10 for show only at 8pm)

    Gordon Best Theatre

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

    Friday, October 12

    8pm - Peace Sand Rest Album Release w/ Hungry Lake, Martian Broadcloack, Velvet Bison, Deathsticks ($8 at door, $15 includes CD)

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 26
    8pm - Rock the $#@%! Halloween Bash ft Black Night Satellite, Jagged, Strange w/ costume contest, photo booth, & more ($10)

    Hot Belly Mama's

    378 George St. N., Peterborough
    (705) 745-3544

    Thursday, October 11

    6-8pm - The Quickshifters

    Sunday, October 14

    1-4pm - Jazz jam

    Junction Nightclub

    253 George St. N., Peterborough
    (705) 743-0550

    Friday, October 12

    10pm - Y2K Flashback w/ DJ Bill Porter (no cover)

    Saturday, October 13

    10pm - Glow Party

    Marley's Bar & Grill

    17 Fire Route 82 Catalina Bay, Buckhorn
    (705) 868-2545

    Friday, October 12

    7-10pm - Chris Culgin

    Saturday, October 13

    7-10pm - Bobby Watson

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 19
    7-10pm - Blue Hazel

    Saturday, October 19
    7-10pm - Richard Kyle of the Tragically Hits

    McGillicafey's Pub & Eatery

    13 Bridge St.. N., Hastings
    (705) 696-3600

    Thursday, October 11

    7-11pm - Karaoke w/ Jefrey Danger

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 27
    9pm - Halloween Party ft Detour, costume contest, and more

    McThirsty's Pint

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

    Thursdays

    9pm - Live music with JJ Thompson

    Fridays

    10pm - Live music with Brian Haddlesey

    Saturdays

    10pm - Live music with Brian Haddlesey

    Sundays

    8pm - Open stage hosted by Ryan Van Loon

    Mondays

    9:30pm - Trivia Night hosted by Cam Green

    Tuesdays

    9pm - Vintage Tuesdays ft Brendan Lawless

    Wednesdays

    9pm - Live music

    Moody's Bar & Grill

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

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 27
    2-5pm - Alan Black & The Steady Band (no cover)

    Oasis Bar & Grill

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

    Sundays

    5:30pm - PHLO

    Pastry Peddler

    17 King St., Millbrook
    (705) 932-7333

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 26
    7pm - Jory Nash ($20)

    Saturday, October 27
    5:30pm and 7:45pm - Dinner Night ft Jennifer & John Miller

    Publican House Brewery

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

    Friday, October 12

    8-10pm - Danny Bronson

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 20
    4-11pm - 10th Anniversary Celebration ft Ace and The Kid & Cale Crow ($10/person at door)

    Puck' N Pint Sports Pub

    871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
    (705) 741-1078

    Fridays

    8pm - Open mic hosted by Andy McDonald

    Tuesdays

    8pm - Open mic hosted by Bobby Watson

    Red Dog Tavern

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

    Friday, October 12

    The Crooked, Say Ritual, Tijuana Jesus

    Saturday, October 13

    10pm - Classified ($30 or $89 VIP, in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/21742/)

    Tuesday, October 16

    9pm - Open mic w/ Matt Diamond (sign up at 8pm)

    Wednesday, October 17

    7pm - The Fame, Splice, Basketball Knees

    Coming Soon

    Thursday, October 18
    9pm - Red Dog Laughs ft local amateur comics and special guests from Toronto ($10)

    Friday, October 19
    10pm - The Silver Hearts

    Wednesday, October 24
    10pm - The Lazys w/ The Standstills

    Thursday, October 24
    9pm - Excuses Excuses, Rebelle, MJ & The Beetus, Sonorous ($10)

    Friday, October 26
    9pm - Halloween Bash '18 w/ Marion Cinder & Throne to the Wolves ($10 cover, 2 for $15)

    Saturday, November 3
    9pm - Dub Trinity

    Thursday, November 8
    10pm - Jesse Roper ($10, in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/21861/)

    Thursday, November 15
    10pm - Ria Mae ($20, in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/21846/)

    Friday, November 16
    10pm - The Kents ($10 in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/21990/

    Saturday, November 17
    8pm - Ken Tizzard "A Good Dog Is Lost" CD Release Show ($15)

    Riley's

    257 George St. N., Peterborough
    (705) 750-1445

    Thursdays

    Travis Berlinbach

    Fridays

    Travis Berlinbach

    Saturdays

    Josh Gontier

    Sundays

    Josh Gontier

    Mondays

    Josh Gontier

    Tuesdays

    Josh Gontier & Cale Gontier

    Wednesdays

    Guest performers

    Sapphire Room

    137 Hunter St., Peterborough
    (705) 749-0409

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, October 27
    9:30pm - Glitchz: Dance/electronic music ft DJ molly millions, rob hailman, reign boi

    The Social

    295 George St. N., Peterborough
    (705) 874-6724

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 19
    9pm - Punch Douglas

    Saturday, November 3
    10pm - Steve Waters & Cartwright Boundary Band

    Friday, November 9
    9pm - Greg Williams

    Southside Pizzeria

    25 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough
    (705) 748-6120

    Fridays

    9am-12pm - Open mic hosted by Jim Russel

    Tuesdays

    9am-12pm - Open mic hosted by Art Lajambe

    The Trend

    110 London St., Peterborough
    (705) 750-1265

    Coming Soon

    Wednesday, October 31
    7-10pm - Trent Music Society presents Open Mic Night

    The Twisted Wheel

    379 Water St., Peterborough

    Thursday, October 11

    7-10pm - Washboard Hank's Backroom Bazaar ft Chester Babcock (Rob Fortin, Susan Newman and John Hoffman)

    Saturday, October 13

    9pm - Trash! '90s Night ft DJ Johnny w/ guests

    The Venue

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

    Tuesday, October 16

    8pm - Merkules w/ Caspian, Evil Ebenezer, Lil Windex, & more ($35 or $100 VIP, in advance www.ephin.com/products/merkules-peterborough-on-oct-16th-19?variant=12409371918416)

    Coming Soon

    Saturday, November 10
    7:30pm - Cold Creek County charity concert w/ Big City Lights & Rob Donaldson Band ($25-$50 in advance at https://cabinmedia.ca/coldcreekcounty)

    Saturday, November 17
    8:30pm - Sebastian Bach (SOLD OUT)

    Monday, November 19
    8:30pm - Sebastian Bach ($40, available at www.ticketscene.ca/events/21940/)

    White House Hotel

    173 Charlotte St., Peterborough
    (705) 741-2444

    Friday, October 12

    5-9pm - Christine Atrill Band

    Saturday, October 13

    5-9pm - Christine Atrill Band

    Coming Soon

    Friday, October 19
    5-9pm - Steve Waters & Cartwright Boundary Band

    Saturday, October 20
    5-9pm - Steve Waters & Cartwright Boundary Band

    New Peterborough casino to officially open on October 15

    By kawarthaNOW -
    Shorelines Casino Peterborough, located at 1400 Crawford Drive in Peterborough, will officially open at 5 p.m. on October 15, 2018. (Illustration: Great Canadian Gaming Corporation)

    Shorelines Casino Peterborough (1400 Crawford Dr., Peterborough) is scheduled to open at 5 p.m. on Monday, October 15th.

    “As we get ready to open our doors and offer an unparalleled gaming and entertainment experience to our guests, we want to recognize the efforts of all the local businesses and trades personnel who worked on this project,” says general manager Bryan Buchanan in a media release from Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, which operates the casino.

    “Hiring local talent was very important to us and together we have constructed an exceptional facility.”

    The new casino employs 300 people, including 180 new employees who were hired as a result of a job fair in May. The other positions have been filled by employees transferred from Shorelines Slots at Kawartha Downs in Fraserville.

    The 50,000-square-foot casino will feature 500 slot machines, 22 live dealer table games such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, a racebook, and a live entertainment area.

    The casino will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with tables open daily from noon until 4 a.m. The casino’s Windward Restaurant and Lounge offers casual dining with The Buffet offering a selection of daily themed buffets.

    The grand opening celebration will begin on October 15th at 5 p.m. and include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live entertainment, and a special commemorative gift for the first 2,500 guests.

    Shorelines Casino Peterborough is owned and operated by the Ontario Gaming East LP, in which Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is the majority shareholder and lead operator. It was selected at the successful proponent by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation to operate gaming facilities in the East Gaming Bundle, including the new casino in Peterborough. The Peterborough casino is the second to open in Ontario since 2006.

    For more information, visit shorelinescasinos.com/peterborough/.

    Popular Crayola Sale for the United Way takes place this Saturday in Lindsay

    By kawarthaNOW -
    The 30th Annual Crayola Sale, a fundraiser for the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes, takes place on the morning of Saturday, October 13, 2018, at the Lindsay Exhibition Fairgrounds and is open to the public. (Photo: United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes)

    The annual Crayola Sale, a fundraiser for the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes, returns for its 30th year from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday, October 13th in the main building at the Lindsay Exhibition Fairgrounds.

    The popular sale takes place every year on the weekend following Thanksgiving.

    The sale is cash only, and people are asked to bring their own bags.
    The sale is cash only, and people are asked to bring their own bags.

    Crayola’s Canadian headquarters are located in Lindsay, and the team at Crayola Canada has donated more than $1,000,000 to the United Way from the past 29 years of the sale. Crayola employees also volunteer their time to help set up and run the sale, along with the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes and other community volunteers.

    Many people come to the sale every year to purchase Crayola products, whether for holiday gifts or for classroom supplies. Some purchase the products for mission trips to Mexico and Cuba or even Zimbabwe.

    “United Way offers support to such a wide variety of people in a wide variety of ways especially the most vulnerable within our community,” says one Crayola employee. “It’s good to know I contribute a tiny bit towards that.”

    The sale is open to the public. All purchases at the sale must be made in cash, and please bring your own bag.

    The United Way is grateful for their partnership with Crayola Canada and has recently launched a new project with Crayola and Fleming College. In 2019, 30,000 square feet of unused land on the lot adjacent to the Crayola building will be transformed into a community garden.

    Some of the funds raised at this year’s Crayola Sale will go towards the community garden project, which will have the capacity to provide fresh produce to hundreds of people in the City of Kawartha Lakes.

    Tip the Crayon went on a tour of Lindsay last week, stopping off at various locations including the Kawartha Lakes Police Service, to promote the annual Crayola Sale fundraiser for the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes. (Photo: United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes)
    Tip the Crayon went on a tour of Lindsay last week, stopping off at various locations including the Kawartha Lakes Police Service, to promote the annual Crayola Sale fundraiser for the United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes. (Photo: United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes)

    Music and comedy … and demons and blood .. return to the Market Hall in Peterborough

    By Sam Tweedle -
    The cast of "Evil Dead The Musical" during a preview performance. The gory musical comedy returns to the Market Hall in downtown Peterborough for four performances from October 11 to 13. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

    C’mon, c’mon and do the Necronomicon … again!

    After a successful sell-out run last October, Killer Tree Productions returns to the Market Hall in downtown Peterborough with another round of Evil Dead The Musical for four performances from Thursday, October 11th to Saturday, October 13th.

    Directed by Caitlin O’Connor and produced by Barb Mills, Evil Dead The Musical is an audience favorite and a perfect way to kick off the Halloween season.

    In 2003, George Reinblatt (pictured) wrote the book and lyrics for "Evil Dead The Musical" and co-wrote the music with Christopher Bond, Frank Cipolla, and Melissa Morris. Since then, the musical has been performed Off-Broadway and at 300 productions all over the world.
    In 2003, George Reinblatt (pictured) wrote the book and lyrics for “Evil Dead The Musical” and co-wrote the music with Christopher Bond, Frank Cipolla, and Melissa Morris. Since then, the musical has been performed Off-Broadway and at 300 productions all over the world.
    Killer Tree Productions presents
    Evil Dead The Musical

    When: Thursday, October 11 – Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 8 p.m.; Friday, Octber 12, 2018 at 11:59 p.m.
    Where: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
    How much: $28 in advance ($18 for students, $38 for Splatter Zone) or $33 at the door

    Book and lyrics by George Reinblatt. Music by Christopher Bond, Frank Cipolla, Melissa Morris, and George Reinblat. Directed by Caitlin O’Connor and produced by Barb Mills. Starring Andrew Little, Sophie Robinson, Brandon Humphery, Hilary Dumoulin, Megan O’Sullivan, Meisha Brown, Addison Wylie, Brendan Remmelgas, Taylor Beatty, Robyn Kruk, Caitlin O’Connor, and Adam Dusume. Advance tickets available in person at the Market Hall box office, by phone at 705-749-1146, or online at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org. Parental advisory for explicit content.

    An unlikely international hit originating from the Canadian stage, Evil Dead The Musical has created a strong fan following all its own, much like the films that inspired it. A musical comedy retelling of Sam Raimi’s classic horror films The Evil Dead (1981) and Evil Dead II (1987), starring Bruce Campbell as anti-hero Ash Williams, the stage show was originally developed as a class project by four Queen’s University theatre students (Christopher Bond, Frank Cipolla, Melissa Morris, and George Reinblatt) who brought the show to Toronto’s Randolph Theatre (formerly the Bathurst Street Theatre) in 2003.

    After a successful debut, the musical moved to the Montreal Comedy Festival where it became a festival favorite. Word of mouth brought Evil Dead to New York in 2006 where it opened Off Broadway, giving it international exposure. Today, the show’s popularity continues with theatre companies throughout the world producing this fan and furious show.

    What makes Evil Dead The Musical resonate with fans of the films is the fact that, although it is a musical comedy, it stays absolutely true to the source material from the Evil Dead films.

    Five college students — Ash Williams (Andrew Little), his girlfriend Linda (Sophie Robinson), best friend Scotty (Brandon Humphery), party girl Cheryl (Hilary Dumoulin), and Ash’s sister Shelly (Megan O’Sullivan) — go for a spring break trip to an isolated cabin in the wood where they discover a tape recorder owned by the cabin’s missing inhabitant, Professor Knosby (Adam Dusome). When they play the tape, they hear Knosby reciting passages from the fabled Necronomicon Ex-Mortis (a.k.a. “The Book of the Dead”).

    Five college students on spring break (Hillary Dumoulin as Shelly, Sophie Robinson as Linda, Meg O'Sullivan as Cheryl, Andrew Little as Ash, and Brandon Humphrey as Scott) stay in an old cabin in the woods, where they awaken demons. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
    Five college students on spring break (Hillary Dumoulin as Shelly, Sophie Robinson as Linda, Meg O’Sullivan as Cheryl, Andrew Little as Ash, and Brandon Humphrey as Scott) stay in an old cabin in the woods, where they awaken demons. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

    The incantations open up a floodgate of evil and what was supposed to be a fun holiday filled with friendship, togetherness, and premarital sex turns into a fight for survival as Ash and his friends battle for their souls against a Deadite army of Kandarian demons.

    Based on the Sam Raimi films, "Evil Dead The Musical" tells the story of a group of college students who inadvertently awaken people-possessing demons, with bloody results.
    Based on the Sam Raimi films, “Evil Dead The Musical” tells the story of a group of college students who inadvertently awaken people-possessing demons, with bloody results.

    While this is all happening, on the other side of the woods the plotline from Evil Dead II is taking place. Professor Knosby’s daughter Annie (Meisha Brown) and her fiancé Ed (Addison Wylie) meet a wacky hillbilly named Jake (Brandon Remmelgas) who guides them through the evil forest filled with killer trees to the cursed cabin in search for Annie’s missing father — not knowing that a bloodbath is taking place at their destination.

    Filled with big laughs and memorable musical numbers, Evil Dead The Musical also has romance, debauchery, good times, and demon killing. You’ll laugh, sing, and even get covered in Deadite blood!

    What makes Evil Dead The Musical interesting is that it is both a parody of the films and the entire musical theatre genre itself. Audiences already know what they are getting into, and the show doesn’t try to be anything other than campy and over-the-top, filled with stupid puns and silly sight gags that poke fun at its own ridiculousness.

    Although Evil Dead The Musical is a show that you can enjoy over and over again (this is my fifth time seeing it), I was interested to see where Killer Tree Productions would take the production a year after their first go around. While last year’s show was tons of fun and got a great reaction from the audience, in many ways the company was still in its infancy and trying to find its legs.

    With Killer Tree having a year to live with the show, as well as some dynamic recasting featuring some familiar faces, I came looking for something familiar but also something completely new. What I found was a production better and bolder than last year’s. Killer Tree Productions is standing strong, and if you loved Evil Dead The Musical last year, you’ve seen nothing yet!

    Megan O'Sullivan as Cheryl with "the trees" (Taylor Beatty, Robyn Kruk, and Caitlin O'Connor) during a preview performance of "Evil Dead The Musical". (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
    Megan O’Sullivan as Cheryl with “the trees” (Taylor Beatty, Robyn Kruk, and Caitlin O’Connor) during a preview performance of “Evil Dead The Musical”. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

    Over the past year, Andrew Little’s roles seem to veer towards the macabre. Beyond his performance in Evil Dead last year, he also played Dracula and Lurch in The Addams Family. So it’s great to see Andrew back on stage recreating the role of Ash Williams. Andrew embodies the spirit of Bruce Campbell’s Ash, bringing all of the good-natured bravado to the stage. Having known the part now for a year, Andrew’s performance is very tight this time around and he seems much more focused on stage. It’s a fun role for an excellent actor.

    The performer I was most interested in seeing was Sophie Robinson, who takes over the role of Linda this year. I first noticed Sophie in The Anne Shirley Theatre Company’s 2015 production of Sweeney Todd, and she quickly became a favourite of mine. However, I didn’t see Sophie in very many leading roles after Sweeney Todd. Sophie makes the perfect romantic lead with her big voice and sweet demeanor.

    “Housewares Employee”, her duet with Andrew, is not only one of the highlights of the show, but also showcases Sophie’s comedic side that I had never seen before. I hope that we’ll finally get to see more of Sophie on the local stage again. She is a star.

    Meg O'Sullivan puts her own show-stopping spin on audience favourite Cheryl, the primarily foil to Andrew Little's Ash Williams. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
    Meg O’Sullivan puts her own show-stopping spin on audience favourite Cheryl, the primarily foil to Andrew Little’s Ash Williams. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

    I knew the most difficult recasting for the current production of Evil Dead The Musical would be that of Ash’s sister Cheryl. Last year, singer Lindsay Barr dominated the stage with her performance as Cheryl. This year, Meg O’Sullivan takes over the role in another long overdue return to the local stage. Meg doesn’t recreate Lindsay’s performance; instead, she finds her own take on Cheryl.

    Cheryl is actually a fantastic role to showcase all the aspects of Meg’s talents. Not only is it a role that demands a great deal of comic timing, it allows Meg to showcase her talents as a singer, a dancer, and a leading player. It’s a big role for someone with big talent, and Meg once again makes Cheryl the audience favourite.

    A special shout out goes to Brendan Remmelgas in the role of Jake. I’ve seen Brendan in a number of productions over the years, but Jake is possibly the greatest character he has ever taken on. He makes the character his own, and puts a completely different spin on him than the traditional Jake in other productions. Brendan is just hilarious with his foul-mouthed side remarks, and his performance of “Good Old Reliable Jake” is one of the biggest moments of the entire show.

    Brandon Remmelgas takes centre stage to perform the song 'Good Old Reliable Jake' as Addison Wylie as Ed and Meisha Brown as Annie look on. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
    Brandon Remmelgas takes centre stage to perform the song ‘Good Old Reliable Jake’ as Addison Wylie as Ed and Meisha Brown as Annie look on. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

    The ensemble cast in this year’s Evil Dead The Musical is tight: Brandon Humphery’s off-colour jokes almost seem funny due to his perfectly delivered lines; Hillary Dumoulin creates her own personal spin on Shelly; Meisha Brown recreates a voluptuous Annie; and Addison Wylie says so much without saying anything at all in the role of Ed.

    But Evil Dead The Musical is also fun for its unique production values. One of the favourite elements of the show are the ridiculous trees, this year played by Taylor Beatty, Robyn Kruk, and Caitlin O’Connor, who get much more stage time this year.

    I’m also always a sucker for the singing macramé moose head, created by Sky Wylie and voiced by Addison Wylie. When that moose gets going I just can’t contain myself. I think its one of the funniest things ever.

    Sophie Robinson and Andrew Little perform "Housewares Employee". Also pictured is the demon-possessesd talking macrame moose created by Sky Wylie and performed by Addison Wylie. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
    Sophie Robinson and Andrew Little perform “Housewares Employee”. Also pictured is the demon-possessesd talking macrame moose created by Sky Wylie and performed by Addison Wylie. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)

    And that’s the joy of this show: it’s just very funny stuff. It’s the kind of humour that I can get behind, and I find myself laughing every time.

    Most audience members going into Evil Dead The Musical know this going in, but be warned that there is a “splatter zone” where audience members sitting in the first dozen rows will be doused with stage blood. It’s one of the most popular features of the show. The company does encourage people to wear white to get the full effect of the blood bath.

    Evil Dead The Musical is always a fun show, but this year Killer Tree Productions really has the show down pat. Filled with big performances, great songs, and lots of laughs, Evil Dead The Musical is a perfect Halloween tradition.

    Evil Dead The Musical runs from Thursday October 11th to Saturday October 13th. Shows start at 8 pm, with a special midnight show on Friday October 12th. Tickets are $28 for regular admission, $38 for the Splatter Zone, $18 for students and $33 at the door the evening of the shows and are available in person at the Market Hall box office, by phone at 705-749-1146, or online at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.

    "There will be blood ...". Directed by Caitlin O'Connor and produced by Barb Mills, "Evil Dead The Musical" stars Andrew Little, Sophie Robinson, Brandon Humphery, Hilary Dumoulin, Megan O'Sullivan, Meisha Brown, Addison Wylie, Brendan Remmelgas, Taylor Beatty, Robyn Kruk, Caitlin O'Connor, and Adam Dusume. (Photo: Killer Tree Productions / Facebook)
    “There will be blood …”. Directed by Caitlin O’Connor and produced by Barb Mills, “Evil Dead The Musical” stars Andrew Little, Sophie Robinson, Brandon Humphery, Hilary Dumoulin, Megan O’Sullivan, Meisha Brown, Addison Wylie, Brendan Remmelgas, Taylor Beatty, Robyn Kruk, Caitlin O’Connor, and Adam Dusume. (Photo: Killer Tree Productions / Facebook)

    International student in Peterborough victim of new phone scam

    By kawarthaNOW -

    The Peterborough Police Service is warning residents about a new scam circulating in the area that targets international post-secondary students into paying a fake “Welcome to Canada” tax.

    In late September, an international student living in Peterborough received an automated phone call advising he needed to pay a “Welcome to Canada Tax.” A person then came onto the call and told the student there is a Canadian law saying he had to pay a $2,500 tax for coming into the county and, if he did not pay the tax, he would be arrested.

    The student then received a second call from someone impersonating a Peterborough police officer who told the student he had two hours to pay the tax or be arrested. The student provided the fake officer with his Social Insurance Number.

    The student then withdrew the $2,500 from his bank account and went to a local bitcoin machine in Peterborough where he entered the QR code he was given and transferred the money to the scammers.

    The phony officer told the student he would call back, but the student did not receive any further phone calls.

    Police are reminding international students that this phone call is a scam, and not to respond to the caller or transfer any money to persons they do not know.

    It is also important not to provide any personal or banking information over the phone without first verifying the caller’s identity.

    When in doubt, hang up and call a trusted family member, friend, staff at your school, or call the police.

    The Peterborough Police Service continues to partner with both post-secondary institutions and local school boards in Peterborough, along with the New Canadians Centre, to provide education and awareness to students and new residents.

    If you have been the victim of a scam (meaning you have handed over money), report the incident to the Peterborough Police Service at 705-876-1122 or online at crimereporting.peterboroughpolice.ca.

    To report receiving a scam phone call or message, call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or visit www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

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