The team at Peterborough bio-tech startup Noblegen, which has secured $25 million in Series B financing led by Richardson Ventures Inc. and BDC. Noblegen co-founder, CEO, and chairman Adam Noble is pictured in the front row at the far left. (Photo: Noblegen)
Peterborough bio-tech startup Noblegen announced on Thursday (May 30) that it has secured $25 million in private investment financing.
The Series B financing, led by Richardson Ventures Inc. and BDC’s Cleantech Practice, follows a successful Series A funding round in 2016 and brings Noblegen’s total funding to date to $42.5 million.
“Noblegen is extremely excited to begin on its next stage of growth,” says Noblegen CEO and Chairman Adam Noble. “Both Richardson Ventures Inc. and BDC share our vision to transform the global ingredients market by producing raw materials that are both healthy for consumers and healthy for our planet.”
Noblegen makes nutritious and functional proteins, carbohydrates, and oils from a single microorganism called Euglena gracilis. The company’s proprietary fermentation technology enables it to produce these ingredients with minimal water and land use as well as a reduced carbon footprint compared to the manufacturing of traditional ingredients.
With this most recent round of financing, Noblegen plans to scale its production capabilities as well as to bring its ingredients to market in the U.S. in 2019.
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“Our vision is to be one of the most impactful brands of this decade, and we’re now in a position where we will be able to focus on meeting the needs of our customers and their consumers,” Noble says. “Our ingredients are incredibly versatile, so food and beverage manufacturers can develop products that are sustainably produced but don’t sacrifice the taste and functionality of traditional ingredients.”
The idea behind Noblegen came from a science fair project by Noble, who was studying how certain types of algae could be used to treat waste water, while he was in high school in Lakefield. Noblegen was founded in 2013.
The company currently employs more than 50 people at its Peterborough location and is planning to double the size of its workforce by the end of 2019.
For more information on Nobelgen, visit noblegen.com.
Lakefield native and Juno award winner Royal Wood will perform at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough on Thursday, June 20th. The show is a fundraiser for Christian Horizons and proceeds will support the needs of people who experience disabilities. (Publicity photo)
With June comes the beginning of summer, and longer days and warm nights herald the beginning of the outdoor live music season, including the Peterborough Musicfest free concert series. Peterborough and the Kawarthas are full of excellent music in June, and there’s no better time of year to get out and take it all in. Here are just a few of the great shows happening in the area:
The Pine Saps and The X-Pollinators at The Garnet in Peterborough on June 1
The month begins on Saturday, June 1st with a feel-good show featuring The Pine Saps and The X-Pollinators, a pair of bands of veteran musicians performing at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107).
The X-Pollinators (Curtis Driedger, Lachy Baro, Rodney Fuentes, David Berger, and Mark Paton) will musically travel all over the cultural map of the Americas and The Pine Saps (Andrew Bigg, David Berger, and Curtis Driedger) will perform toe-tapping gospel sounds. Both bands deliver a rootsy acoustic vibe that is sure to please.
The show begins nice and early at 7 p.m. and tickets are available at the door, for $10 or pay what you can.
VIDEO: The X Pollinators
WE Thursdays Concert Series at the Red Dog in Peterborough beginning with Lance Isaacs on June 6
Known for their own musical pursuits, The Weber Brothers are now also entering into the realm of promoting and assisting the careers of other artists. In June, Ryan and Sam Weber are presenting the WE Thursdays Concert Series, a month of concerts every Thursday night at The Historic Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W, Peterborough, 705-750-1710) featuring their talented friends.
The series kicks off on June 6th with local songster Lance Isaacs. On June 13th, it’s talented singer and keyboard player Tony Silvestri. The series continues on June 20th with songwriter Brock Zeman and superb sideman and guitar player Brock Hogan. And last but not least on June 27th will be Juno award winner and critically acclaimed bluesman Paul Reddick.
The shows begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door.
VIDEO: “Heart Shaped Box” by Nirvana performed by Lance Isaccs
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Busker Festival in downtown Cobourg on June 8
Get out and enjoy the Busker Festival in downtown Cobourg on Saturday, June 8th.
The free, family-friendly event features a variety of buskers entertaining from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
You can expect music, magic, dancing, and much more. Acts include Bex in Motion (a hula hoop fire show), magician Nathaniel Rankin, and “The Funner Waiter” John Parks.
The Busker Festival in downtown Cobourg on June 8, 2019 includes live music and a hula hoop fire show from Bex in Motion. (Graphic: Downtown Cobourg)
Red Dirt Skinners at the Bancroft Village Playhouse on June 8
Also on Saturday, June 8th, you can head to Bancroft for an exciting folk-roots show featuring the UK’s Red Dirt Skinners at the Bancroft Village Playhouse (5 Hastings St. S., Bancroft, 613-332-8014).
Described by Roots Music Canada as “The Pink Floyd of folk music,” Red Dirt Skinners is the multi-award winning husband-and-wife team of Rob and Sarah Skinner.
Lovely harmonies combined with Sarah’s soprano saxophone solos form their unique sound resulting in a highly entertaining and original show.
Tickets are $25 and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at www.boxofficebancroft.com
VIDEO: “Idabel Blues” – Red Dirt Skinners
Valdy at Showplace in Peterborough on June 9
Canadian folk legend Valdy returns to Peterborough to perform an “intimate” afternoon show at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) on Sunday, June 9th at 3 p.m.
Valdy is best known for his hit “Rock and Roll Song” and has been making music for over four decades,one of the original figures in Canadian folk music. The show will feature great tunes and excellent stories from a brilliant career.
Tickets are $35 ($30 for students and seniors) and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.
VIDEO: “A Good Song” – Valdy
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This Frontier Needs Heroes at The Garnet in Peterborough on June 12
If you love music with Americana tinges, witty lyrics, and simple yet pleasing production, you will want to check out This Frontier Needs Heroes on Wednesday, June 12th at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107).
This is the moniker of Brad Lauretti, who hails from Nashville, Tennessee. He will be performing solo and his tunes like “I Love Immigration” and “Colorado Camping Conspiracy” are sure to please. Check out his album Real Job and you will see what I mean. Great stuff!
Tickets are $10 at the door (or pay what you can) and the show begins around 8 p.m.
VIDEO: “Long Gone” – This Frontier Needs Heroes
Bruce McGregor Trio with Andy Sparling at the Concert Hall at Victoria Hall in Cobourg on June 18
With its breezy and warm days, June feels like a month made for jazz. Head to downtown in Cobourg on Tuesday, June 18th for a performance by The Bruce McGregor Trio, part of the Jazz in the Afternoon series at The Concert Hall at Victoria Hall (55 King St. W., Cobourg, 905-372-2210).
The trio, featuring Bruce McGregor on piano, Daryl Knox on drums, and Howard Baer on bass, will be accompanied by Andy Sparling on trombone for a show called “Swing Gold from The Jazz Trombone”. You’ll hear smooth sounds from the days of the Big Bands and beyond.
The show begins at 2 p.m. and tickets are $18+HST for general admission seating. Advance tickets are available online.
Tanya Wills performing with The Bruce McGregor Trio (Bruce McGregor, Daryl Knox, Howard Baer) in Cobourg on May 28, 2019. (Photo: Tanya Wills / Facebook)
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Royal Wood at the Market Hall in Peterborough on June 20
Royal Wood is a stalwart of the Canadian music scene and the Lakefield-raised musician returns to Peterborough to perform at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 20th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146).
His original pop and folk-rock songs featuring piano and guitar ring as true as any great ones out there. Royal is a two-time Juno Award winner and his latest record California Nights has been critically acclaimed since its release last year. The album musically sits in the classic styles of Tin Pan Alley and Laurel Canyon.
This show is a fundraiser for Christian Horizons and proceeds will support the needs of people who experience disabilities.
Tickets are $55 for a regular assigned seating and $60 for an assisgned cabaret table seat. Lots of good seats are still available for this show at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.
VIDEO: “Make Up Your Mind” – Royal Wood
The Ring Fingers at Academy Theatre in Lindsay on June 27
Expect an evening of eclectic music at the Academy Theatre (2 Lindsay St. S., Lindsay, 705-324-9111) on Thursday, June 27th as The Ring Fingers bring a mix of country-style ballads, toe tappers, and favourites from jazz to folk, classical to the blues with interpretations of classic songs.
Along with some original tunes, Stacy Anderson and Marc Novoselec will perform their interpretations of Joni Mitchell, Tragically Hip, Cole Porter, Burt Bacharach, Leonard Cohen, The Beatles, and more. There will be something for everybody.
The concert will take place upstairs in the Guild Room, with seating limited to 50 people.
The show begins at 7 p.m. and costs $20 plus service charges. Tickets available at the Box Office, by phone at 705-324-9111, or online at www.academytheatre.ca.
The Ring Fingers are Stacy Anderson and Marc Novoselec. (Photo: The Ring Fingers)
City and Colour at Del Crary Park in Peterborough on June 29
Peterborough MusicFest’s 2019 season opens in style on Saturday, June 29th at Del Crary Park in downtown Peterborough with City and Colour performing a solo acoustic show.
The stage name of Dallas Green, City and Colour is an indie alt-rocker who has earned three Juno Awards over the years and has topped charts across the country.
As always, Peterborough Musicfest shows are free thanks to sponsors. The concert begins at 8 p.m.
Tip: Musicfest sponsor kawarthaNOW.com will be giving away VIP seats to this and all other Musicfest concerts this summer. You are guaranteed a chair near to the stage for the best view. For your chance to win, sign up for our weekly e-news at k-n.ca/subscribe.
Despite continued warnings from police, people are still falling prey to the gift card scam.
In May, a 67-year-old Peterborough woman was scammed out of a total of $13,000 when she responded to a phone call from a man posing as a bank employee.
On May 1st, she received her first phone call from the scammer, who told the victim her bank account had been compromised, her funds frozen, and that she would have to forward money to him to access her accounts.
He then instructed her to go to different local convenience stores and purchase Google Play gift cards, and then provide him with their identification numbers.
On May 1st, she went to three different convenience stores in Peterborough, purchasing $7,000 worth of Google Play gift cards.
The next day, the scammer phoned the victim again and instructed her to purchase more gift cards. The victim purchased an additional $6,000 in Google Play gift cards from three more convenience stores.
The Peterborough Police Service reminds residents to use extreme caution when receiving a phone call, email, or text from a person stating you owe money or that your accounts have been frozen and that paying in gift cards will resolve the issue.
When in doubt, hang up and contact your bank or call a trusted family member or friend and ask them about the call. However, no legitimate bank or other business will ever ask you to pay for anything using gift cards.
To report a scam in which you have handed over money or personal information, call the Peterborough Police Service at 705-876-1122 or report it online.
To report an unsuccessful scam phone call, please call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre toll free at 1-888-495-8501 or visit their online fraud-reporting system.
This certified Water Wise garden in Peterborough's East City features many common Water Wise elements including the use of ground cover, the lack of lawn, and drought-tolerant plants. In this week's column, GreenUP shares the the best tips on how you can create a low-maintenance and thriving garden this year. (Photo: Karen Halley)
Gardening is the act of curating a natural space by manipulating and influencing living things to realize our ecological design dreams. It becomes beautiful art when done with grace and respect for the natural ecosystem.
When designing a garden, we cannot ignore that we are working with a living system. Unlike painting on a canvas, we do not have total control over it. The plants will grow, move, die, and thrive in response to their environment.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Dawn Pond, GreenUP Downtown Vibrancy Project Coordinator.
“Pure and simple design resists the passing of time,” explains Julie Moore-Cantieni of Modern Landscape Designers, a regular guest with the CHEX TV’s Let it Grow series. “When I design a garden, my inspiration comes from Mother Nature. I try to imitate her so that the design becomes one with nature.”
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“From my perspective, it is about producing a sense of place that is expressed through a thoughtful, spatial composition,” Moore-Cantieni says. “The power of relationship between the space and its elements must address the comfort of people by conveying meaning, without forgetting the importance of the site practicality, as well as the ecological aspect of sustainability.”
Just how do we incorporate nature’s lessons while we create works of art in our gardens, all while fitting in the season’s other joys like bike riding, camping, and relaxing at the beach?
Our advice to everyone is to keep things simple.
Many of us aspire to keep our gardens simple and “low maintenance” but, in reality, we can rarely achieve a low-maintenance garden because no garden is “no maintenance”. Plants are often described as low maintenance, but once they are in their new home in your garden, they may experience growing pains.
Many rain gardens incorporate a bowl-shape that allow water to collect in the garden and absorb into the soil. This distinct feature can be seen during the installation of this rain garden on Elias Avenue in Peterborough. (Photo: Karen Halley)
Whether you are a beginner or seasoned gardener, it can feel intimidating to take on the challenge of building a new garden or expanding the one you have. If your goal is to not just build a garden but also create an ecologically thriving space, the intimidation factor can double.
Let’s follow the age-old saying “Right plant, right place”, as even low-maintenance plants have preferred growing conditions.
Here are a few tips to help you create easy, artful, eco-friendly gardens:
Choose native plants
Native plants will not only make your garden more resilient to the local climate, but they will help conserve water as native species need less watering than the typically thirstier tropical plants.
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Include more perennials and fewer annuals
Annuals are much more demanding when it comes to watering, which makes them higher maintenance and less water wise.
If you do want to include annual blooms in your garden beds, try sowing some wildflower seeds like calendula, cosmos, or bachelor’s buttons.
Once established, these species do not require as much water and will give you long-lasting blooms, just like the traditional annual species.
Plant for the sun conditions
When you are buying a new plant or researching a plant online you will notice that they are often categorized by their sunlight requirements.
Some common categories include full sun, partial sun, partial shade, or full shade.
What do all these terms mean? Think of them as a sliding scale of sunshine requirements:
Full sun: six hours or more of sunlight exposure daily
Partial sun: four to six hours of sunlight exposure daily
Partial shade: two to four hours of sunlight exposure daily
Full shade: less than two hours of sunlight exposure daily
This weekend, make a point of checking the sun exposure in your garden and be sure to check the location every few hours throughout the day. Create a sun map by sketching out your yard, and track how the sun casts shadows on your yard by outlining the shaded areas at regular increments. This will help you decide where you can plant full sun, part shade, or full shade plants in your yard.
Tegan Moss has completely eliminated municipal water use by being a Water Wise gardener in the front yard of her Sherbrooke Street home. Moss plants native drought-tolerant species such as milkweed, has reduced the amount of her lawn space while increasing the amount of garden space, uses mulch to retain water, and waters only with rain collected in a rain barrel. (Photo: Heather Ray)
Go with the flow
Unlike paved surfaces, garden soil naturally encourages the water cycle by naturally filtering water. Water is an essential part of life and a vital ingredient for a healthy and thriving garden. Unfortunately, a natural water supply can be unpredictable. The droughts and floods that we experience throughout the season can result in inconsistent watering in our gardens.
Water also flows with the topography of the land and is not equally available in all areas. Our gardens and yards are not immune to the ebb and flow of water movement in our region. However, knowing the land and how water moves along it can help you create and care for gardens that have been planted with the knowledge that the water conditions are right for that species.
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Dan Cooper, co-author of Gardening from a Hammock, a how-to book on creating low-maintenance gardens, is a strong advocate for choosing resilient plant species for your garden conditions.
“With climate change we will be experiencing more severe and more frequent extreme weather events like flooding and extended droughts,” Cooper writes, “so dealing with heavy rain falls, drought in our gardens, and the loss of habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators will become more important issues in our lives. Installing a rain garden is a good solution to water runoff from roofs and driveways and will help keep excess water out of our storm sewers and water treatment facilities.”
Rain gardens
Peterborough residents David Marshall and Barbara Moffat next to a rain garden they installed in their back yard after being inspired by a GreenUP Ready For Rain Workshop. They have transformed their entire property by installing many water-wise features including rain barrels, a smart irrigation system, and by de-lawning the entire property to replace grass with native plants and wildflowers. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Rain gardens are sunken gardens designed to collect and soak up rainwater. They are most effective in places that collect runoff from impermeable surfaces like under the roof of your home or the area around your driveway. Rain gardens look just like regular gardens, however the species planted in them are chosen for their ability to thrive in the variable water conditions.
Rain gardens also help to protect our lakes and rivers from urban pollution. Rain often washes pollutants from impermeable surfaces into our waterways, but a rain garden directs these pollutants into the soil for filtering, which restores the natural water cycle and simultaneously provides the plants in the garden with enough water for growth.
While flooding is a concern for many residents, drought is often an issue that plants face in the height of our Peterborough summers. It can be difficult to make sure our plants are amply hydrated during times of drought, especially as we try to conserve our water usage.
Water-wise and pollinator gardens
The Water Wise program at GreenUP encourages us to conserve water in the yard by adapting how we water and what we plant.
The rule of thumb is that native plants are better adapted to our climate, as they have evolved to thrive in our local conditions, whereas plants that are native to other places in the world, that have adapted to different climates, often struggle in our region and therefore require more assistance from us.
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“Drought-tolerant plants will also become more important to gardeners who are coping with extended droughts and water restrictions,” Cooper writes. “My favourite drought-tolerant plants are some of our prairie natives, like blazing star (Liatris spicata), eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana), prairie smoke (Geum triflorum), and red barrenwort (Epimedium rubrum). These species are also great for butterflies and other insects.”
Drought-tolerant water-wise gardens and flood-resistant rain gardens can both also provide food, water, and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators.
Pollinator gardens usually include:
Native plants (as these provide the best food source for the native pollinators)
Water source (such as a pond, wetland, or small pebble-filled water dish)
Messy areas (leaving a pile of sticks or plant material will provide shelter for many pollinators)
Blooms (having flowers available throughout most of the season provides a steady supply of food for pollinator)
Pesticide free (gardens that provide an environment free of pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides will support pollinators)
This boulevard garden has been recognized in the GreenUP Water Wise Landscaping Recognition Program. Planting a boulevard garden is a beautiful way to transform a space that can otherwise be an uninspiring piece of your property. Planting gardens instead of grass can mean less watering, more rain absorption, less flooding, more pollinators, and enhanced beauty in your front yard. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Whether you prefer tending to your plants or would rather your garden be somewhat self sufficient, knowing your yard and planting the right plant in the right place can help you grow a healthy beautiful garden that supports native pollinators and conserves water.
If you are interested in learning more about environmentally conscious gardening join us on Saturday as we plant a 787-square-metre garden in downtown Peterborough at 100 Water St. Email dawn.pond@greenup.on.ca to sign up. Join us and spend the day planting and learning about rain gardens while planting native species.
For further information about the Water Wise program, contact GreenUP Water Programs Manager Heather Ray at heather.ray@greenup.on.ca or visit greenup.on.ca/water-wise for more Water Wise tips, tricks, and inspiration.
Local events marking International Trails Day 2019 on Saturday, June 1st will be held in Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes and, on Sunday, June 2nd, Otonabee Conservation is hosting a celebration of trails at Harold Town Conservation Area where you can try out demonstration mountain bikes courtesy of Fontaine Source for Sports, Wild Rock Outfitters, and Shimano. (Photo: Otonabee Conservation)
For International Trails Day on Saturday (June 1), several events are taking place this weekend in the Kawarthas.
Started by the American Hiking Society in 1992, International Trails Day celebrates trails, their development and use, and the healthy lifestyle they encourage.
It falls on the first Saturday of June every year.
International Trails Day takes place on the first Saturday of June every year.
Here are some of the events celebrating International Trails Day in the Kawarthas this year:
At Mill Pond Forest Trails (187 County Road 40, Norwood), a celebration takes place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hosted by the Township of Asphodel-Norwood Trails Committee, the free event will feature geocaching, a scavenger hunt, guided tours, and a sawmill demonstration.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the County of Peterborough is hosting a scenic walk (or cycle) along the River Road Trail, the section of the Rotary Greenway Trail that runs from Trent University in the south to Lakefield in the north.
Also from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kawartha Land Trust and Wild Rock Outfitters are hosting a guided walk of the Chase trails at John Earle Chase Memorial Park (Anchor Bay Rd., Ennismore), one of Kawartha Land Trust’s protected properties. The walks will take place at 10 a.m. and again at 12 p.m.
From 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Green Trails Alliance is hosting a celebration at the Auk’s Lodge courtyard at the Fleming College Frost Campus (200 Albert St. S., Lindsay).
Al MacPherson will guide people on a leisurely two-kilometre interpretive walk along the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail and ecologist Melissa Rose will host a citizen science walk. There will be an escorted two-kilometre bike ride for beginners and a 25-kilometre ride with Kawartha Cycling, who will also be offering a bike safety and check, along with organizational displays and trail demonstrations. From noon to 1:30 p.m., there will be a barbecue for a nominal fee.
International Trails Day extends to Sunday (June 2) with a celebration of trails at Harold Town Conservation Area (2611 Old Norwood Rd., Peterborough) running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hosted by Otonabee Conservation, Fontaine Source for Sports, Wild Rock Outfitters, Shimano, and Peterborough Public Health, the event will feature self-guided trail rides along more than 10 kilometres of trails with demonstration Norco, Trek, Shimano, and Cannondale mountain bikes available to try courtesy of Fontaine Source for Sports, Wild Rock Outfitters, and Shimano. Barbecue refreshments will also be available.
If you prefer to celebrate International Trails Day on your own, there are lots of trails to choose from in the area. In Peterborough, there’s the Parkway Trail, the Rotary Greenway Trail, the Willowcreek Trail, the Crawford Rail Trail, trails at the Trent University Wildlife Sanctuary, and more.
For a longer hike or bike ride, you can tackle The Great Trail (previously called the Trans Canada Trail), which offers a rural route from Peterborough west towards Omemee and Lindsay (the Kawarthas Trans Canada Trail), and east towards Hastings.
Common Loon American Pale Ale is a flagship brew of the Bobcaygeon Brewing Company. Like most other craft breweries in the Kawarthas, the brewery's co-founder and president Richard Wood is cautiously optimistic that beer sales in convenience stores will benefit his brewery. (Photo: Bobcaygeon Brewing Company)
As the Province heads towards a showdown with The Beer Store over its intention to allow corner stores to sell beer and wine, craft brewery owners and managers in Peterborough and across the Kawarthas are watching with interest.
Ontario’s Progressive Conservative government tabled legislation on Monday (May 27) that would terminate its current contract with The Beer Store, paving the way for its plan to allow corner stores to sell beer and wine.
This is the Ford government’s latest step in its plan to expand options for the sale and consumption of beverage alcohol in Ontario. Previously announced changes include allowing alcohol to be served at 9 a.m. (instead of 11 a.m.) seven days a week, letting people consume alcohol in parks and public areas (subject to municipal by-laws), allowing casinos to advertise and serve free alcohol, and permitting tailgating parties at sporting events.
The Beer Store at 570 Lansdowne Street in Peterborough. (Photo: Google Maps)
The 10-year contract with The Beer Store, signed by the previous Liberal government, has already permitted the expansion of beer and wine sales to hundreds of Ontario grocery stores. To further expand beer and wine sales to include corner stores and big box stores, the Ford government intends to break that contract.
The Beer Store is primarily owned by Labatt, Molson, and Sleeman and operates 445 outlets across Ontario. While all the three breweries were originally Canadian companies, they are now all foreign owned.
Lawyers representing The Beer Store’s majority owners claim breaking the contract will result in the loss of thousands of jobs, cost Ontario taxpayers millions of dollars in penalties, and lead to higher prices for consumers. They have also threatened legal action should the Province proceed with its plan to break the agreement in place.
A Brewers’ Retail store in Hamilton in 1959. The pre-cursor to The Beer Store, Brewers’ Retail was founded in 1927 at the end of prohibition in Ontario. The provincial government wanted to appease temperance advocates and agreed that beer would be sold through a single network of stores. As the government did not want to operate this network itself, brewers were allowed to organize the Brewers Warehousing Company Ltd., which later became Brewers’ Retail and then The Beer Store. (Photo: Hamilton Historical Collection)
As that situation plays out, local craft beer breweries in the Kawarthas are paying attention.
With one exception, those contacted by kawarthaNOW.com see the allowance of beer sales in convenience stores as a possible good thing for their individual enterprises, as well as the craft beer industry as a whole.
Church-Key Brewing Company in Campbellford
“As a citizen, I’m very concerned that we’re going to be on the hook for the $150 million penalty,” says John Graham, founder and president of Church-Key Brewing Company in Campbellford.
“This current government is all about cutting costs. Spending $150 million for ego reasons doesn’t seem like a smart fiscal thing to do.”
Church-Key beer products, available in LCBO outlets and select grocery stores, are not currently carried by The Beer Store.
Two of the flagship brews of Church-Key Brewing Company in Campbellford. Founder and president John Graham has no love for The Beer Store, but thinks breaking the contract is not good for the taxpayer. Based on his experience with selling in grocery stores, he is skeptical that availability of craft beer in convenience stores will result in significantly more sales, since there is so much competition in the craft beer space. (Photo via foodism.to)
“I’ve chosen from the beginning not to be in The Beer Store because of their foreign ownership,” says Graham.
“In the same way I don’t want to give them $150 million, I don’t want to give them even a small piece (of our business). They’re our largest competitor, they are foreign owned, they’re not an entity that wants to see me do well, and I don’t want to fund them in any way.”
That aside, Graham says while his brewery saw “a bump” with the allowance of beer sales by grocery stores, “there’s been no real upswing. There are a lot more players now than there used to be. Having more places to buy beer doesn’t mean more beer sold.”
According to the Ontario government, craft beer sales account for less than two per cent of sales at The Beer Store, but they make up over 10 per cent of sales at the LCBO and over 15 per cent at grocery stories.
Graham sees a benefit to having his brewery’s product sold through the LCBO.
“LCBO stores are dedicated to maintaining the integrity of their system and remove the risks of serving to minors and having old code beer on their shelves,” he explains. “They really have just one job and they’re fairly good at it.”
“I don’t think, based on pure numbers, you can guarantee that a thousand convenience stores would do an equally good job. For the most part, it (beer) is going to be lumped in as just another thing for the convenience stores to sell.”
While Graham is far from convinced that there’s any upside to the selling of his product by convenience stores, representatives of other craft beer breweries in the Kawarthas share enthusiasm over the prospect of increased availability of their products.
Bobcaygeon Brewing Company
Three of the brews produced by Bobcaygeon Brewing Company, which will be opening a retail store and tap room in Peterborough this summer in the former Beard Free Brewing location. (Photo: Bobcaygeon Brewing Company)
“Anything that’s good for the consumer is good for craft breweries,” says Richard Wood, co-founder and president of Bobcaygeon Brewing Company.
“There’s still a lot for us to learn regarding what changes are coming. We don’t know if every convenience store is going to be licensed or just some, like the grocery store system we have now.”
“Having more shelf space available to us is a good thing. It allows us to get our product into more people’s hands and makes it easier for the consumer.”
“Looking at what’s happened in other provinces, and in the U.S. and other countries, it’s good to see some changes coming. We’re excited.”
Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.
Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. flagship brews (Fenelon Vienna Lager and Fenelon Red Ale) are already sold in select LCBO outlets and grocery stores. (Photo: Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.)
Mathew Renda, general manager of Fenelon Falls Brewing Co., agrees increased access to its products is a positive thing.
“Ontario is a little behind the times and and we need to catch up,” Renda says. “This is a great step in the right direction to provide better access to our product.”
“Better access draws more attention to our brand. Not only our brand, but also the brands brewed within our area. The Kawarthas has great breweries but, unless you’re from the Kawarthas or within a relatively close distance, you don’t have access to that beer. With beer and wine going into convenience stores, and into more grocery stores and big box stores, access is increased.”
“We’re sitting back and seeing how things go. It could go one of two ways. We stay with the monopoly that we have now, or people have better access to our beer.”
Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. flagship brews (Fenelon Vienna Lager and Fenelon Red Ale) are already sold in select LCBO outlets and grocery stores, and the company will soon be opening its new brewery, retail bottle shop, and taproom in Fenelon Falls.
Publican House Brewery in Peterborough
Publican House Brewery produces a range of brews, including Paddler’s Ale, a portion of the sales of which the Peterborough craft brewery donates to The Canadian Canoe Museum. Co-founder and president Marty Laskaris says says the ramifications for his brewery are dependent on what convenience store sales ultimately look like. (Photo: Publican House Brewery)
At Peterborough-based Publican House Brewery, co-founder and president Marty Laskaris is cautiously optimistic. Like Renda, he says the ramifications for his brewery are dependent on what convenience store sales ultimately look like.
“At this point we just don’t know how this is going to manifest itself in terms of the rules and regulations, and what it will mean to us logistically as a little craft brewery,” says Laskaris.
“There are thousands of convenience stores in Ontario. Is it going to be a limited number? Is it only going to be a certain size and format (of stores)? Certain neighbourhoods? Logistically it remains to be seen if it will be a great opportunity for us or an okay opportunity for us.”
“Anytime I can get one of our beers on a shelf so someone can see it is another promotional opportunity and another opportunity for someone to grab one of ours, have it, and say ‘Hey, this is really good beer. I think I should buy more of this.'”
“What the government did yesterday (Monday) is a first step in what appears might be a process. Tabling legislation to break the contract … who knows where that’s going to go and what that will do for plans of putting beer and wine in corner stores.”
Laskaris adds that if convenience stores are given the green light to sell Publican House’s product, that will present a new challenge.
“Our challenge is our capacity. I don’t want to sell our beer (in convenience stores) and then not be able to meet the demand. I don’t want to fail miserably in that regard and affect the brand’s reputation.”
Pie Eyed Monk Brewery in Lindsay
Aaron Young of Pie Eyed Monk Brewery believes the sale of beer in convenience stores will provide more exposure for the range of brews the Lindsay craft brewery produces. (Photo: Jennifer Bridle)
Meanwhile, Aaron Young, the general manager of the recently opened Pie Eyed Monk Brewery in Lindsay, notes the name of the game for him is the prospect of more exposure for the brewery’s products.
“Ontario is very much behind the ball as far as accessibility to products,” says Young. “The more exposure we can get on the marketability side of things the better.”
“I don’t know what all the ins and outs of this are yet, but I’m going to guess your mom-and-pop corner stores are not going to charge for shelving space or, if they do, it’s probably going to be substantially less (than The Beer Store, the LCBO and grocery stores), unless the government also controls that.”
'Against the Grain', a work by legally blind and partially colour blind artist Lynda Todd. A show of her latest paintings will be on display at Paul's Art and Frame Gallery in June, with an opening reception on Saturday, June 8th. (Photo courtesy of the artist)
In June, we have new shows as well as quite a few interactive workshops and events happening in the area.
There’s the ninth annual Artathon at the Art School of Peterborough, an evening children’s program at the Peterborough Museum & Archives, new work by visually impaired artist Lynda Todd at Paul’s Frame & Art Gallery, a show by Peterborough expatriates Gillian Turnham and Michael Morritt at Acme Art & Sailboat Co. during the First Friday art crawl, a multimedia group show at Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio, and textile-based classes as Madderhouse Textile Studios.
In other news, congratulations are in order to the recipients of the second annual Peterborough Arts Awards!
The 9th Annual Artathon is happening at the Art School of Peterborough on June 1
The Art School of Peterborough’s 9th annual Artathon takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 1st, duringh the Taste of Downtown event on Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough, presented by the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area.
This is an endurance event for artists of all ages and disciplines! The challenge is to work for six hours straight and help raise some funds for the Art School of Peterborough. Participating artists include Dorothy Cruickshank, Rob Niezen, Lisa Martini Dunk, Jenni Johnston, Janet McGillis, and more.
If you want to give it a try, contact the Art School to register and get friends, family, and whoever you can to sponsor your art-making marathon! If you can’t take part or attend, you can sponsor one of the participating artists online at artschoolptbo.org/9th-annual-art-athon/.
The Art School of Peterborough is located at 174A Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough.
Peterborough Museum & Archives hosts ‘Kids Only – Discovery After Dark!’ on June 1
A mastodon skeleton from “Ice Age Mammals”, a travelling exhibit from the Canadian Museum of Nature on loan to the Peterborough Museum & Archives until September. (Photo: Anthony Scullion / Canadian Museum of Nature)
In conjunction with the Peterborough Museum & Archives latest exhibit, ‘Ice Age Mammals’ (on loan from the Canadian Museum of Nature), ‘Kids Only – Discovery After Dark!’ offers a fun creative and educational evening where children ages four to six will explore and learn about archaeology and the ice age.
Fossil digging, casting, and scavenger hunts are a few of the activities planned for the evening. Children will see real specimens at the museum, as well as large murals on fabric panels by Yukon Paleoartist George ‘Rinaldino’ Teichmann.
This program takes place on Saturday, June 1st from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Advance registration is required by calling 705-743-5180, and the cost is $20 per child.
The “Ice Age Mammals” exhibit is also worth a look during regular hours. It will on display until Sunday, September 8th.
The Peterborough Museum & Archives is located at 300 Hunter Street East in Peterborough. Regular hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $10 suggested per family. For more information, visit peterboroughmuseumandarchives.ca.
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Paul’s Frame & Art Gallery features Lynda Todd’s ‘From Dark to Discovery’
Lynda Todd’s ‘From Dark to Discovery’ exhibit is on display at Paul’s Art & Frame Gallery in Peterborough during June. (Photo courtesy of the artist)
Lynda Todd is both legally blind and partially colour blind, but has nonetheless come into her own as an artist by experimenting with paint pouring techniques.
He pieces are colourful and full of texture. In her latest series of larger-scale work entitled ‘From Dark to Discovery’, on display at Paul’s Art & Frame Gallery, she has brought her painting to a new level.
“Born into a family of artisans, I always had an affinity to art, although did not take myself seriously as an artist as I was born legally blind and mostly colour blind,” she writes. “On the encouragement of Valerie Kent of Cavan Art Gallery, I started acrylic abstract pouring. My desire to explore and express creativity has resulted in unique colour choices, melded with an interesting use of texture. This way of working blends strongly with my desire to communicate my visual world.”
The exhibit (and sale) runs from Saturday, June 1st to Sunday, June 30th, with an opening reception from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 8th. Drop in, meet Lynda, and see her latest pieces in person.
To see more of Lynda’s previous work visit her online at www.lyndatodd.com.
Paul’s Art & Frame Gallery is located at 588 Monaghan Road in Peterborough. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday (closed on Sunday and Monday). There is an accessible entrance at the back of the building.
Acme Art & Sailboat Co. presents ‘Sevilliana’ by Gillian Turnham and Michael Morritt on June 7
Gillian Turnham and Michael Morrit return to Peterborough from Spain for an exhibit entitled ‘Sevilliana – Work Made in Spain’ at Acme Art & Sailboat Co. (Poster: Joe Stable)
During the First Friday art crawl on June 7th, Acme Art & Sailboat Co. will feature ‘Sevilliana’, work made in Spain by dynamic duo Gillian Turnham and Michael Morritt, as well as new work by Joe Stable in the Copper Closet.
Gilliam and Michael are Peterborough expatriates who moved to Spain in 2017. Gillian works in metal wood and stone to create intricate sculptural work, and Michael is an acclaimed editor, filmmaker, and photographer.
Gillian will be presenting new captivating pattern works and Michael will be presenting portraits of trees as well as a series on the Semana Santa parades in Andalucía.
Drop in to the opening reception on June 7th and say hello to Gilliam and Michael, who are visiting from Spain and will be in attendance.
You can also sample the rest of the Friday Friday festivities in downtown Peterborough from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Friday June 7th. For more information about First Friday, follow First Friday Peterborough on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio presents ‘Multimedia Extravaganza’
‘Hidden Garden’ by Lorraine Staples, one of the artists taking part in the “Multimedia Extravaganza” group show at Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio in June. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio)
‘Multimedia Extravaganza’ at the Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio is a group show featuring the work of seven very different artists: Jann Teng, Tristan Teng, Carolyn Anstee, Jodie Hames, Lorraine Staples, Daniel Marlatt, and Carolyn Boyer.
Their materials range from metal, wood, and ceramics to floral and abstract painting.
See the work in person and meet the artists during the opening reception from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 2nd.
Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio is a not-for-profit artist’s co-operative, located at 420 O’Connell Road in Peterborough. Hours of operation are Wednesday to Sunday from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. The gallery is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.kawarthaartists.org.
Artspace holds is annual general meeting on June 18
Alice Williams’ exhibit ‘Star Song’ at Artspace in January and February 2019. Williams recently received the 2019 Peterborough Arts Award for Outstanding Senior Artist. (Photo: Matthew Hayes)
Artspace welcomes all members of the public to attend the organization’s annual general meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18th.
This is an excellent opportunity to find out what happens at Artspace, specifically in 2018, and to get involved if you are interested.
The meeting is open to all, but only members in good standing will be eligible to vote and run for a position on the board. Memberships can be purchased or renewed online at artspace-arc.org/product/artspace-membership/ or in person at Artspace.
Artspace is located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough and offers barrier-free access (to all but Gallery 2) and free admission during regular open hours: Tuesday to Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Parking is available in the municipal lot on Hunter Street between Aylmer and George. For more information, call 705-748-3883 or visit artspace-arc.org.
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Madderhouse Textile Studios offering introductory sewing course and wet-felted jewellery workshop with local makers
‘Machine Sewing 101’ with instructor Kathryn Bahu runs on Wednesday in June at Madderhouse Textile Studios in downtown Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Madderhouse Textile Studios)
If you aren’t yet familiar with Peterborough’s newest textile studio, Madderhouse Textile Studios is fully set up for silkscreening and is currently offering a number of introductory courses.
The latest upcoming workshops are not silkscreening but ‘Machine Sewing 101’ with Kathryn Bahu (Wednesdays in June at 6 p.m. from June 5th to June 26th) and ‘Wet-Felted Jewellery’ with Christianna Ferguson (Sunday, June 9th from 10 a.m to 4 p.m.)/
Madderhouse Textile Studios is accessed through Watson & Lou, located upstairs at 383 Water Street in downtown Peterborough. For more information about the studio or to register for an upcoming workshop, find them online at www.madderhouse.com or email leslie@madderhouse.com.
Second annual Peterborough Arts Awards awarded in recognition of artists and arts supporters
The recipients of the second annual Peterborough Arts Awards: Charlie Werger (Beth McMaster accepting on his behalf), Nimkii Osawamick, Beau Dixon and Patti Shaughnessy (Lisa Dixon accepting on Beau’s behalf), Alice Williams, Hilary Wear, and Ryan Kerr. The awards were presented at The Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts in Peterborough on May 24, 2019. (Photo: Bianca Nucaro-Viteri / kawarthaNOW.com)
On Friday, May 24th, the Electric City Culture Council presented the second annual Peterborough Arts Awards or outstanding achievement in the arts at The Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts at McDonnel St. Activity Centre in Peterborough.
The 2019 award winners were Charlie Werger (Arts Champion), Nimkii Osawamick (Outstanding Emerging Artist), Beau Dixon and Patti Shaughnessy (sharing the Outstanding Mid-Career Artist Award), Alice Williams (Outstanding Senior Artist), Hilary Wear (Outstanding Achievement By An Indigenous Artist), and Ryan Kerr (Arts Catalyst).
Each winner received a $2,000 cash award, sponsored by local businesses and individuals who have each made a five-year commitment to the awards. Outstanding Emerging Artist is sponsored by Tim and Shelley Barrie of Merit II Realty Limited. Outstanding Mid-Career Artist is sponsored by Betty and Bill Morris, Outstanding Senior Artist is sponsored by Paul Hickey of Outpost379 (previously known as BrandHealth), Outstanding Achievement by an Indigenous Artist is sponsored by LLF Lawyers, Arts Champion is sponsored by Paul Bennett/Ashburnham Realty, and Arts Catalyst is sponsored by Kate and Alex Ramsay.
In addition to the Peterborough Arts Awards, EC3 presented the Bierk Art Fund Bursary Awards to two graduating high school students. Alexina St.Pierre-Farrow and Payton Urbach each received a $1,000 bursary for their post-secondary education in the visual arts.
Congratulations to all the winners and the finalists!
On Saturday, June 1st, the 2019 Taste of Downtown features food from 24 local restaurants, a beer and wine garden, live music from local performers, children's activities, and a sidewalk sale on Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
Taste of Downtown — a family-friendly event featuring local food and drink, live music, and shopping — returns to Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough on Saturday, June 1st from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Taste of Downtown takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 1, 2019 on Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough. (Poster courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
There will be delicious cuisine from 24 local restaurants, beverages in the beer and wine garden hosted by The Venue and Publican House Brewery, and local live music sponsored by Shorelines Casino Peterborough.
“Taste of Downtown is your chance to find your new favourite restaurant,” says Terry Guiel, executive director of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA).
For the kids, there will be a bouncy castle, face painting by Faces by Two, a fun photo mural, live art by the Art School of Peterborough, and a visit from George King of Downtown.
You can also get some shopping done as the businesses along Charlotte Street will put on a giant sidewalk sale with special deals.
The restaurants participating in this year’s Taste of Downtown are:
Caribbean Sizzle
Cosmic Charlie’s
Curry Mantra
Curry Village
Dodrio
DR J’s BBQ & Brews
Empress Gardens
Hobart’s Steakhouse
Hunter Street Tavern
Island Cream Caribbean Cuisine
Jasmine Thai Cuisine
La Hacienda
La Mesita
McThirsty’s Pint
Nateure’s Plate
Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market
Publican House Brewery
Simply Delicious Bistr& Bakery
The Boardwalk Board Game Lounge
The Pin
The Turnbull Café
The Venue Peterborough
Village of Thai
Wild Wing
This year’s musical performers are Hillary Dumoulin from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Jerry Jerome steel drum band from 1:15 to 3:15 p.m., and Bobby Watson from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
“We’re ready to kick off the summer season this Saturday on Charlotte Street with lots of great food, entertainment, and shopping,” Guiel says.
The event will take place rain or shine (as of the date of this story, the weather forecast for Saturday is sunny and warm).
The Pact for a Green New Deal is holding a town hall in Peterborough on May 30, 2019. The grassroots initiative endorsed by 95 organizations and 75 individuals is demanding Canada cut emissions in half by 2030. Another town hall is scheduled in Port Hope on June 20, 2019. (Photo: Robert van Waarden / Survival Media)
On Thursday (May 30), The Pact for a Green New Deal is hosting a town hall in Peterborough.
So far, almost 90 people have officially registered for the event, which takes place at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity United Church (360 Reid St., Peterborough).
If the phrase “Green New Deal” sounds familiar, that’s because it’s the name of a proposed package of reforms in the U.S., championed earlier this year by Democratic US Congressional representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ed Markey and aimed at achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in 10 years.
The name refers to the New Deal, a set of social and economic reforms and public works projects undertaken by President Franklin D. Roosevelt between 1933 and 1936 in response to the crisis of the Great Depression.
VIDEO: Green New Deal
The Pact for a Green New Deal is a made-in-Canada, non-partisan grassroots initiative, established on May 6th by a coalition of organizations and individuals across the country.
“We are a coalition of workers, artists, Indigenous leaders, scientists, youth, and people directly impacted by climate catastrophe — from cities and towns, businesses and communities, working beyond our political differences and in solidarity with Indigenous peoples — who want to ensure a safe world for our children and all generations after that,” states The Pact for a Green New Deal website at greennewdealcanada.ca.
There are now 95 organizations that have endorsed the pact, including the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, CUPE Ontario, Climate Action Network, and Greenpeace Canada, along with 75 individuals, including musicians K.D. Lang, Neil Young, Basia Bulat, and Joel Plaskett, actors Evangeline Lilly, William Shatner, Pamela Anderson, and Cobie Smulders, scientist David Suzuki, and writer Naomi Klein.
While the climate crisis has been in the news for many years — with increasing droughts, floods, forest fires, and extreme weather events affecting more and more people — the past seven months in particular have seen a substantial change in the public perception of the crisis and mobilization demanding that political leaders take action.
In October 2018, the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change issued a report warning we only have 12 years left to limit climate change catastrophe, and calling for urgent changes to reduce the risk of extreme heat, drought, floods, and poverty.
In January, Swedish teenager and activist Greta Thunberg delivered her famous stirring speech at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos.
There is increasing public demand for political action on the climate crisis, including by young people largely thanks to the efforts of Swedish teenager and activist Greta Thunberg, who is featured on the May 2019 cover of Time magazine. (Photo: TIME)
“I don’t want you to be hopeful,” she told world leaders. “I want you to panic. I want you to feel the fear I feel every day. And then I want you to act. I want you to act as you would in a crisis. I want you to act as if the house was on fire — because it is”.
Thunberg also prompted an estimated 1.4 million students in 112 countries around the world, including in Canada and here in the Kawarthas, to join her in striking and protesting against inaction in the climate crisis. For her efforts at inspiring young people to take action (known as “the Greta Thunberg effect”), Thunberg has since been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and is featured on the cover of this month’s Time magazine.
Earlier this month, on the same day The Pact for a Green New Deal was launched, the United Nations released a dire report warning that nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history, and the rate of species extinctions is accelerating.
According to the report, global heating is one of the five culprits for the alarming decline in biodiversity, along with human-caused changes in land and sea use, direct exploitation of species, pollution, and invasive alien species.
Inspired by Quebec’s The Pact for Transition (Le pacte pour la Transition), a climate change pledge that has been signed by more than 270,000 people, The Pact for a Green New Deal “demands we cut emissions in half by 2030, protect critical cultural and biological diversity, create a million jobs, and address the multiple crises we face through a holistic and far reaching plan that respects the constitutionally enshrined and internationally recognized rights of Indigenous peoples.”
The Pact for a Green New Deal is holding town halls across Canada in May and June, bringing together people from all walks of life at a grassroots level to discuss and inform a vision for climate change action. In addition to the Peterborough event, there’s also a Green New Deal Town Hall taking place at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 20th at Port Hope High School (130 Highland Dr., Port Hope).
For more information on The Pact for a Green New Deal, and to sign up to take action to create a Green New Deal, visit greennewdealcanada.ca.
Unifor, the largest union representing school bus drivers in Ontario, will be in Peterborough on May 28, 2019 to protest the process for awarding school bus contracts in Ontario. (Photo: Unifor)
The largest union representing school bus drivers in Ontario will be in Peterborough on Tuesday (May 28) to protest the way school bus contracts are awarded in Ontario.
In a media release, Unifor claims the process for awarding school bus contracts creates driver shortages and instability.
“There are fundamental issues with the way that school bus contracts are awarded and administered across the province,” states Unifor’s Ontario regional director Naureen Rizvi.
“If the government fails to address this problem, the chaos that drivers, students, parents, and school boards have experienced over the past few years will continue as contracts are flipped from operator to operator leading to decreased safety standards, low wages, and insufficient staffing to cover routes.”
According to the media release, the protest will depart from Pickering at 8 a.m. on Tuesday and will arrive at Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (885 Clonsilla Ave, Peterborough) at 10:30 a.m. The protest will then proceed to the office of Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith (Unit 4, 1123 Water St., Peterborough).
“Drivers are a very important part of the education system and should not be taken for granted,” says Unifor Local 4268 president Debbie Montgomery. “As frontline workers our drivers are warning the government and the public about an ongoing crisis in the industry that is and will continue to negatively impact the children of Ontario.”
Earlier this month, school bus drivers represented by Unifor who work at Stock Transportation in Toronto ratified a new three-year collective agreement, avoiding a strike that would have affected more than 8,000 students.
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