Since the 19th century, local boards of health have played a critical role in improving the health of local residents, such as municipal bylaws to prohibit the sale of unpasteurized milk and milk products. Pictured is the sale of "unsanitary" ice cream circa 1905. On February 9, 2019, Peterborough Public Health and the Peterborough Historical Society are hosting a one-day conference called "Back to the Future: 130 years of Public Health in the Kawarthas". (Photo: Archives of Ontario)
Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2019, Peterborough Public Health — in partnership with the Peterborough Historical Society — is hosting a one-day conference called “Back to the Future: 130 years of Public Health in the Kawarthas” on Saturday, February 9th.
The conference, which takes place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Peterborough Public Health’s offices at 185 King Street in downtown Peterborough, includes speakers from across Ontario presenting on a range of topics including polio and local vaccination programs, diabetes among Indigenous populations, milk pasteurization, public health nursing, drinking water protection, and the history of sanitation efforts.
“We really want to show residents how public health shapes our lives every day, where it started 130 years ago, and how a population health approach can help address some of the biggest issues we face today in our community,” says Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Peterborough’s Medical Officer of Health.
First established in 1889, Peterborough Public Health is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2019. (Graphic: Peterborough Public Health)
“With speakers representing various expertise, such as infectious diseases, Indigenous medicine, local history, nursing and the contributions of rural Women’s Institutes, we believe this event will leave participants better informed and inspired about what can happen when communities work together to improve health for all,” Salvaterra explains.
The keynote speaker will be Professor Kenton Kroker from Department of Science and Technology Studies at York University, who will present the topic “Inventing a Public for Ontario’s Public Health: 1882-85”. Other speakers include Indigenous elders, university professors, and public health leaders from across Ontario. See the full conference program below.
Early bird tickets are available now for $55 ($35 for students). After February 1st, tickets will be $60 ($40 for students). You can register online at eventbrite.ca or by calling 705-743-1000, ext. 264. The ticket price includes lunch, break refreshments, and access to all presentations.
A caricature (circa 1910) of Charles Hastings, Toronto’s Medical Health Officer, with commentary on his attempts to make Toronto cleaner and healthier: “I had no idea you needed cleaning up so badly”. (Photo: Archives of Ontario)
In Ontario, public health rose to prominence prior to Confederation as the sanitary reform movement gained traction in the 1800s. Driven by scientific discoveries that infectious diseases were caused by microbes, an increasing number of individuals and volunteer organizations began promoting hygiene. Typhoid (for example) was widely believed to develop spontaneously, but there was growing evidence it was actually caused by exposure to contaminated water or milk.
In 1834, the Legislature of Upper Canada passed legislation allowing local municipalities to establish boards of health “to guard against the introduction of malignant, contagious and infectious diseases.” Some cities and towns established local health boards, usually after a serious epidemic of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, or smallpox.
In 1873, six years after Confederation, Ontario passed its first Public Health Act. By 1886, 400 boards of health were operating across the province. In 1889, the Town of Peterborough passed a by-law on February 18, 1889 to create the first permanent Board of Health.
Part of a 1918 poster from the Ontario Provincial Board of Health issuing a warning to local health authorities about influenza. (Photo: Archives of Ontario)
Over the next 75 years, local boards of health were primarily responsible for improving the health of local residents. They identified that unpasteurized milk was killing children, and recommended the establishment of local bylaws mandating the pasteurization of milk. They also worked with municipalities to provide safe drinking water, treat sewage, make food safer, immunize school children, and control outbreaks.
On January 22, 1965, the City and County of Peterborough signed an agreement to establish a joint board of health and organization, the Peterborough County-City Health Unit, which was renamed Peterborough Public Health in 2016 (coinciding with the move from Hospital Drive to the current downtown Peterborough location).
The cover of the 1931 Health Almanac from the Public Health Nursing Branch of the Department of Health of Ontario. (Photo: Archives of Ontario)
Conference Program – Back to the Future
8:30 – 9:00 a.m.
Registration
9:00 – 9:15 a.m.
Land Acknowledgement: Dr. Rosana Salvaterra (Medical Officer of Health, Peterborough Public Health) Welcome to Treaty 20: Kathryn Wilson (Chair, Board of Health, Hiawatha First Nation) Opening remarks
9:15 – 11:30 a.m.
Presentations: Moderator Professor Kristi Buccieri (Trent University)
9:20 – 10:00 a.m.
“Building Public Health in Peterborough 1850-1920.” Dale Standen (Professor Emeritus Trent University)
10:00 – 10:40 a.m.
“Indigenous Healing and Medicine: the Case of Diabetes.” Edna Manitowabi (Elder Odawa/Ojibway from Wikwemikong; Head Woman, Eastern Doorway of the Three Fires Midewewin Lodge; Professor Emeritus, Indigenous Studies, Trent University)
10:40 – 11:00 a.m.
Break
11:00 – 11:40 a.m.
“The Role of Vaccines in the Eradication of Polio.” Dr. Garry Humphreys (Past Medical Officer of Health, Peterborough City and County)
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch
1:00 – 1:40 p.m.
Keynote Speaker; “Inventing a Public for Ontario’s Public Health, 1882-85.” Professor Kenton Kroker (Department of Science and Technology Studies, York University) Introduction by Professor Kevin Siena, Trent University.
1:40 – 4:00 p.m.
Presentations: Moderator Brittany Cadence (Manager, Communications a IT Services, Peterborough Public Health)
1:50 – 2:30 p.m.
“Great Lakes Governance, Environmental Protection and Public Health.” Professor Jamie Benidickson (Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa).
2:30 – 2:40 p.m.
Break
2:40 – 3:20 p.m.
“The Contribution of Nursing to Public Health.” Dr. Kirsten Woodend (Dean, Trent/Fleming School of Nursing)
3:20 – 4:00 p.m.
“The Role of Women in Health Protection: Pasteurization of Milk and the Women’s Institute.” Dr. Rosana Salvaterra (Medical Officer of Health) in conversation with Beryl Harris (Selwyn Women’s Institute)
4:00 – 4:45 p.m.
Closing Address: “The Future of Local Public Health.” Dr. Peter Donnelly (Public Health Ontario).
5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Closing Ceremonies and Reception (Atrium)
Part of a 1986 flyer from the Ontario Ministry of Health warning about drinking unpasteurized milk. (Photo: Archives of Ontario)
Feeding chickadees is a favourite winter activity of GreenUP's Dawn Pond. Here one feeds from seeds placed on her toque. Watching and feeding birds is just one of several activities you can enjoy during the winter even if there's little or no snow on the ground. (Photo: Dylan Pond)
We are now officially more than two weeks into winter. Those who enjoy the snow may be disappointed with what this season has brought forth so far, while others may be relieved with the absence of shoveling, salting, and de-icing that are usual this time of year.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Karen Halley, GreenUP Communications & Marketing Specialist.
Whether you love or loathe the snow, it’s always a good idea to get outside for some fresh air, exercise, and vitamin N (for Nature)!
The benefits of being in nature are widely known with stress reduction being at the top of the list.
The Peterborough area is full of outdoor locations and activities that are free and fun for everyone. Here are some ideas to get you planning your winter weekends, with or without the snow.
Skating on the Trent Canal at the Peterborough Lift Lock is a popular winter activity. City staff regularly flood the rink to ensure almost perfect conditions for skating and hockey so, as long as the temperature is low enough (a green flag indicated skating is permitted), you’ll be able to skate. (Photo: Peterborough & The Kawarthas Tourism)
There’s nothing more locally iconic than skating along the Trent Severn Canal in front of Lock 21, a National Historic Site, and the world’s largest lift lock when it opened in 1904.
Last week, the temperatures dipped low enough for the canal to be open, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to glide along this beautiful outdoor rink along Ashburnham Drive in Peterborough. City staff regularly flood the rink to ensure almost perfect conditions for skating and hockey so, as long as the temperature is low enough, you’ll be able to skate.
Ice conditions at the Lift Lock are posted with a green or a red flag, which is updated daily throughout the winter.
If you prefer to stay off the ice, consider a hike. For many Peterborians, a trail lies just beyond the doorstep. Peterborough has so many inner-city trails that going for a walk or hike is easy!
Check out Jackson Park, Armour Hill, or walk along one of our many paved trails such as The Great Trail (formerly The Trans Canada Trail), The Rotary Trail, or the Parkway Trail.
“Living close to so many green spaces and trails means that we have nature close by; this time of year you can see the beautiful red stems of Red Osier Dogwood and the stunning colours of songbirds like blue jays and cardinals,” says GreenUP’s Jenn McCallum.
“Bring your camera along and enjoy some nature photography! During winter, I particularly enjoy the lovely monochrome landscapes of snow falling in Birch forest stands.”
Feeding chickadees can be a magical winter experience. When you see or hear chickadees in your backyard or while on a hike, simply hold out a handful of seeds and wait patiently for one to land. (Photo: Dylan Pond)
Even on a gray day, so many colours really stand out this time of year. If you’re bringing the kids along, try and count how many colours you can see while on your hike. Along with McCallum’s suggestions above, you can watch for the purple-ish colour of Eastern Hemlock tree bark, the steel blue feathers of a nuthatch, or the sweeping yellow branches of a willow.
If there is snow on the ground, you’ll also have the opportunity to see many tracks left behind by critters that are active all winter long. Kids love to identify footprints or to simply follow tracks to see where animals are scurrying off to. You can point out the difference between the footprints of ducks, songbirds, and squirrels and if you’re lucky, you may see the prints of a red fox or a snowshoe hare.
“My favourite winter activity is hand-feeding the chickadees,” says GreenUP’s Dawn Pond, “I love standing with seeds on my toque and waiting quietly for them to land on my head.”
Feeding the chickadees by hand can be a magical experience. Simply take some birdseed along with you on your hike. When you hear the familiar chickadee-dee-dee sound, hold out a mittenful of seeds alongside a tree branch and wait patiently for one to land.
“Take a friend and get your camera ready,” suggests Pond. “It’s so nice to have a photo keepsake of this special moment, especially after waiting so patiently for one to land.”
A great place to try feeding chickadees is at GreenUP Ecology Park, where many birds frequent the feeders that are stocked for winter feeding. You’re also likely to see cardinals, juncos, and nuthatches — and if you’re lucky you may spot the pileated woodpecker that has been frequenting the area.
Have you ever considered a night hike? With the sun setting around 5 p.m., there’s ample time to take a stroll after dark and enjoy the calm and quiet of the evening. Dusk brings a variety of different animals out of hiding so listen for owls, and watch for deer, both of which can been seen in and around the city.
Just be sure to be safe and be seen while out after dark; wear reflective clothing and bring a flashlight or headlamp so that others are able to see you.
Take advantage of a sunny day and give winter cycling a try. Trails in Peterborough are well maintained in winter, giving plenty of opportunity to cycle all year long. (Photo: Jaime Akiyama)
Want to try something new and adventurous along the trails? GreenUP’s Lindsay Stroud suggests taking a sunny day to try out winter cycling.
The local trails are well maintained in winter, offering a great opportunity to bundle up and bring out your bicycle. Riding your bike in the winter adds physical activity into your day, decreases the number of cars on the road, helps build connections to your community, and is a lot of fun.
“Bring some maple syrup along,” suggests GreenUP’s Matthew Walmsley. “Making maple taffy on ice is a great way to use up last year’s maple syrup stocks before the new batches arrive in late winter, and it is a sweet treat no matter what outdoor activity you choose.”
If you’re unsure about identifying a species you see, or if you want to learn more about your nature sightings, download the iNaturalist App for access to resources from across the globe, all at your fingertips on your mobile device.
For more outdoor activity ideas, pick up a copy of The Big Book of Nature Activities by local naturalists Drew Monkman and Jacob Rodenburg. It is brimming with fantastic nature-based activities, all laid out by season. It is available at the GreenUP Store at 378 Aylmer Street North in downtown Peterborough.
Danielle McIver (left) and Lori McKee (right) of the Women's Business Network of Peterborough celebrate the organization's donation of $22,486.15 to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton with Donna Masters (second from left) and Ria Nicholson (second from right) at the Holiday Inn in downtown Peterborough on January 9, 2019. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
The Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN) has donated $22,486.15 to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton — surpassing last year’s donation by more than $2,000.
The funds were raised through the networking organization’s annual holiday gala held in December at the Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront.
For more than 30 years, WBN has supported the YWCA Crossroads Shelter, a service that protects local women and their children from violence and abuse while providing them with the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
“We feel strongly about giving back to our community and supporting our local YWCA’s Safe Night’s Sleep Program this year,” says WBN Program Director Lori McKee. “We are thrilled that we surpassed last year’s donation of $20,000 and that the money raised will help mothers and their children experience warm and secure nights.”
WBN revealed the final donation amount tonight (January 9) at its monthly members’ meeting at the Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront, where McKee and WBN Program Director Danielle McIver presented a cheque to Donna Masters, YWCA Director of Philanthropy and Communications, and Ria Nicholson, YWCA Associate for Fundraising Events.
“This is further proof that we are indeed surrounded by a genuinely supportive community,” McKee says. “We are grateful for the generosity of our WBN members, guests, volunteers and local businesses for making this event a huge success. Thank you for all your hard work and support that has allowed us to reach our fundraising goal.”
The funds raised from the WBN Holiday Gala will support the YWCA’s Safe Night’s Sleep Program at Crossroads Shelter, which provides emergency shelter, meals, counselling and personal care supplies for women and children. Last year, YWCA Crossroads Shelter and Haliburton Emergency Rural SafeSpace provided 8,159 safe nights for women and children.
“The need for safety is ongoing,” Masters says. “Continued support helps change lives in Peterborough and Haliburton by sustaining a broad range of YWCA programs and services for women and their children. Together, we can continue to provide a path to safety and the opportunity for a fresh start.”
According to a report released by the Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses on December 6, 2018, 48 women were killed last year as a result of intimate partner violence in Ontario.
Kawarthas residents Heeley Rae Balanga, Wendy Allan, and Sandra Finn all died in 2018 as a result of acts of violence committed by men. YWCA’s Safe Night’s Sleep Program provides women and their children a safe haven while providing them with the resources they need to rebuild their lives. (Photos via Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses)
Three of those 48 victims were from the Kawarthas region: 35-year-old Heeley Rae Balanga of Kawartha Lakes, who was found dead after a fire in her home on May 29th (a 44-year-old man was charged with first-degree murder and arson); 51-year-old Wendy Allan of Lindsay, who was shot to death by her husband on August 19th in her home (her husband then committed suicide); and 71-year-old Sandra Finn of Peterborough, who was shot to death by her husband on August 22nd in a Home Depot parking lot (Terrance Finn was charged with first-degree murder).
One safe night at YWCA Crossroads Shelter costs $45.96, typically beyond what government funding provides, and includes everything from the physical safety of a private room and 24-hour support, to nutritious meals, linens, clothing, and personal care items.
WBN is a networking channel for women who wish to enhance and expand their business contacts and grow their businesses. Formed in 1961 as the Peterborough Chapter of the Canadian Advertising and Sales Association, the network has evolved into a dynamic and growing membership of women with diverse backgrounds and careers who meet to share their knowledge and experience and promote their businesses.
DBIA executive director Terry Guiel and owners Jennifer Avis and Stephanie Hayes of Hello, Baby!, where the winning Holiday Shopping Passport belonging to Avis Moores of Omemee was drawn on January 9, 2019. Moores will receive $1,500 in downtown money that she can redeem at participating businesses in downtown Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
Avis Moores of Omemee has won the Holiday Shopping Passport grand prize — $1,500 in downtown money — from the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA).
The winning passport was drawn earlier today (January 9) at Hello, Baby! at 241 Charlotte Street.
Moores, who shopped all over the downtown this holiday season, will pick up her prize on Friday at Simply Delicious Bistro and Bakery at 197 Charlotte Street.
Avis Moores of Omemee (second from left) won the grand prize for Downtown Peterborough’s annual Holiday Shopping Passport program and picked up her prize of $1,500 in downtown money on January 11 at Simply Delicious at 197 Charlotte Street. Also pictured are Joel Wiebe of the Peterborough DBIA and Anita Morris and Barb Collins. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
“Congratulations Avis on winning the grand prize,” says DBIA executive director Terry Guiel. “Thanks to everyone who supported their local downtown businesses this holiday season. The success of this program shows how enthusiastic this community is when it comes to shopping local.”
The awarding of the grand prize represents the end of this year’s Holiday Shopping Passport program, which began on November 12th.
Under the program, shoppers in downtown Peterborough were rewarded by receiving a stamp for every $10 they spent at a participating location. Each completed passport (20 stamps) was entered into a draw, including three early bird draws of $500 in downtown money (which can be redeemed at participating businesses in downtown Peterborough).
With its many kilometres of groomed trails, Kawartha Nordic Ski Club in the Township of North Kawartha is a popular destination for both Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. The trails are a brief drive from both Burleigh Falls Inn and Viamede Resort (which also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the adjacent Stony Lake Trails), making it an ideal activity for your next Canadian winter getaway. (Photo: Kawartha Nordic Ski Club)
Located in the heart of Peterborough & the Kawarthas, the Township of North Kawartha is an excellent destination for your next winter getaway.
This is the first of a three-part series on Canadian winter getaways in Peterborough & the Kawarthas.
From Burleigh Falls in the south — where the Canadian Shield begins — to Apsley in the north, North Kawartha can offer you a peaceful break, a family vacation, or a romantic retreat, with lots of opportunities for winter activities in the Kawarthas wilderness including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
A two to three hour drive from either Toronto or Ottawa (and just 45 to 60 minutes northeast of the City of Peterborough), accommodations and activities in North Kawartha are all conveniently accessible from provincial Highway 28, so you can head out for a day of snowshoeing and then return to your room to warm up next to the fire with a hot cup of cocoa.
Where to Stay
Burleigh Falls Inn
Burleigh Falls Inn, located on Highway 28 just north of the majestic Burleigh Falls, offers special winter getaway packages. (Photo: Burleigh Falls Inn)
Located on Highway 28 just north of the majestic Burleigh Falls, where the waters narrow as they descend from Lovesick Lake to Stony Lake, Burleigh Falls Inn offers panoramic sunrise views over Stony Lake and glorious sunsets over the dams of Lovesick Lake.
A popular summer destination, Burleigh Falls Inn is open year-round and is a wonderful location for your winter retreat, especially for couples who want to escape for some romance or to enjoy some fun in the snow.
Burleigh Falls Inn is just a short walk from the chute at Burleigh Falls, where the waters of Lovesick Lake and Stony Lake meet. (Photo: Rick Harris / Flickr)
The mid-week Date Night package offers your choice of overnight accommodation (a Lakeside Motel Cabin or Main Inn Room with fireplace), a welcome basket of treats and sparkling wine, and breakfast for two.
The Burleigh Bundle package offers your choice of overnight accommodation (Lakeside Motel Cabin, Main Inn Room, or Main Inn Suite) with in-room charcuterie and select craft beer, a daily breakfast, a Kawartha Nordic ski and snowshoe pass, a snowman kit, board games, a three-course dinner, and more.
And, if you have a dog, they have a few rooms available just for you and your pooch.
Burleigh Falls Inn has the perfect cozy room for your romantic winter getaway. (Photo: Burleigh Falls Inn)
Burleigh Falls Inn is located at 4791 Highway 28 in North Kawartha. For reservations, call 705-654-3441 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Viamede Resort is a full-service resort located on 2,000 feet of Stony Lake shoreline just south of Woodview. (Photo: Viamede Resort)
Located on 2,000 feet of Stony Lake shoreline just south of Woodview, Viamede Resort is a full-service resort destination with 50 guest rooms and pet-friendly cottages offering great lake views.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a romantic couple’s getaway, Viamede Resort has a package tailored just for you. Here are just two of the winter packages available:
The Après Ski package is designed for couples who want all the fun of a ski chalet but without having to go outside. You can cozy up by the resort’s main fireplace, while enjoying panoramic views of Stony Lake and indulging in all-day coffee, tea, and cookies.
Have a swim in the heated pool, savour forest-to-table dining, and keep yourself entertained with the resort’s library of books, movies, and board games.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a romantic couple’s getaway, Viamede Resort has a package tailored just for you. (Photo: Viamede Resort)
The Romantic package includes a lakefront guest room for two nights, a candle-lit five-course dinner for two at the Mount Julian fine dining restaurant, Ontario wine and candles and a gift in your room on arrival, and a semi-private wine, whisky, or beer tasting session.
If you do want to head outside for some fresh air and exercise, hiking trails, a skating rink, and cross-country ski trails are also available.
Viamede Resort is located at 595 Mount Julian-Viamede Road in Woodview. For reservations, call 705-654-3344 or 1-800-461-1946. For all available packages and pricing, visit viamede.com or email info@viamede.com. You can also follow Viamede on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
What To Do
Skiing and snowshoeing at Kawartha Nordic Ski Club
Kawartha Nordic Ski Club offers 46 km of classic skiing trails, 27 km of skate skiing trails, 9 km of snowshoeing trails, and 2 km of lit night skiing trails. (Photo: Kawartha Nordic Ski Club)
Located on Nordic Ski Lane west of Highway 28 north of Woodview, the popular Kawartha Nordic Ski Club offers groomed ski trails, including 46 km of classic skiing, 27 km of skate skiing, 9 km of snowshoeing, and 2 km of lit night skiing.
The trails wind through beautiful Canadian Shield terrain and feature a main chalet and four picturesque trail-side cabins equipped with wood stoves and first-aid equipment.
Kawartha Nordic Ski Club has a main chalet and four picturesque trail-side cabins equipped with wood stoves and first-aid equipment. Feeding birds out of your hands is optional. (Photo: Kawartha Nordic Ski Club)
You can purchase day and evening passes from the rental shop in the parking lot next to the trail head, which also offers rental equipment (credit, debit or cash are accepted during business hours) and where staff are available to provide advice and guidance.
Lessons are also available, including lessons for your little ones — from “Bunnyrabbits” (age 4) to “Track Attack” (ages 10 to 12) — as well as private, semi-private, and group lessons for adults.
Founded in 1976 by a group of avid cross country skiers in Peterborough, Kawartha Nordic Ski Club is a not-for-profit organization, governed by a volunteer board of directors, and operated by numerous volunteers.
The snowshoe trails at Kawartha Nordic Ski Club are specifically designed to pass by many picturesque features of the landscape. (Photo: Peterborough & The Kawarthas Tourism)
For more information including prices and trail conditions, visit kawarthanordic.ca.
You can also follow Kawartha Nordic Ski Club on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Note that dogs are not allowed on the trails.
Skiing and snowshoeing on Stony Lake Trails
If you’re staying at Viamede Resort, you’ll have easy access to the nine kilometres of Stony Lake Trails, which offer views of limestone cliffs and cuts, significant outcrops of the Canadian Shield, and scenic Stony Lake. (Photo: Viamede Resort)
Stony Lake Trails is a 9-km network of public trails on a mix of land owned by Viamede Resort, Kawartha Land Trust, and various private land owners.
The three major loops — the blue trails (3.5 km), yellow (2 km), and red (3.5 km) — are ideal for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
On the trails, you see the unique geology that makes the Stony Lake area both ecologically significant and beautiful, including limestone cliffs and cuts, significant outcrops of the Canadian Shield, and scenic views of Stony Lake. There are benches at resting areas and lots of opportunities to view wildlife.
Stony Lake Trails are accessible from Viamede Resort and from a parking lot located at 105 Reids Road at the Ingleton-Wells Property owned by Kawartha Land Trust.
Skiing and snowshoeing at Kawartha Highlands Signature Site Park
Located north of Burleigh Falls and Woodview, Kawartha Highlands Signature Site Park is the largest park in southern Ontario after Algonquin Provincial Park.
The 375-square-km area of the park offers lots of opportunities for the avid snowshoer to experience untouched wilderness and nature.
VIDEO: Winter at Kawartha Highlands Signature Site Park
If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even try winter camping (you must obtain a permit online at reservations.ontarioparks.com or by calling 1-888-668-7275).
Kawartha Highlands Signature Site Park is accessible via Highway 28, Highway 36, and Highway 507. For more information, visit ontarioparks.com/park/kawarthahighlands.
Antiquing at East of Eden
Drop by East of Eden in Woodview to find unique vintage and antique items. (Photo: East of Eden)
If you prefer shopping over skiing or snowshoeing, you’ll want to drop in to East of Eden, located at 6401 Highway #28 in Woodview. You can’t miss their location at Northey’s Bay Road, with several antique vehicles out front.
East of Eden consists of two shops (a clapboard church built in 1905 and a log building) filled to the brim with something for all tastes, including Canadiana furniture, pottery and china, quilts and textiles, books, and much more — all authentic antique or vintage only.
East of Eden is open most weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by chance or appointment (call ahead at check 705-957-4273).
For more information, follow East of Eden on Facebook and Instagram.
Dark Winter’s Feast at Viamede Resort – January 18, 2019
Dark Winter’s Feast will be held in this historic chapel, located on the Viamede Resort grounds. (Photo: Viamede Resort)
The Dark Winter’s Feast at Viamede Resort (595 Mount Julian-Viamede Rd., Woodview) is a culinary interpretation of food gone by, set in the resort’s 19th-century chapel.
This unique dining experience will take you back to 1877 by offering a hearty feast using traditional foods and methods, served family style. Keeping with the historic theme, the chapel will be heated by fire and lit by candles.
The Dark Winter’s Feast takes place on Friday, January 18th and costs $95 for dinner and drinks. For tickets, call 1-800-461-1946 (you can also book a room at Viamede if you prefer to stay over).
Apsley Lions Club Winter Carnival – January 26, 2019
Every year on the fourth Saturday in January, the Apsley Lions Club hosts a Winter Carnival at the North Kawartha Community Centre (340 McFadden Rd. Apsley).
The family-oriented festival begins at 9 a.m. and runs throughout the day, featuring indoor and outdoor events including face painting, a food booth, clowns, animals, science activities, an open mic, a snow sculpture contest, a lasagna dinner, hockey tournaments, and more.
Kawartha Nordic Skiathlon – February 10, 2019
A fun introductory race experience for skiers of all ages and abilities, the Kawartha Nordic Skiathlon takes place on Sunday, February 10th at Kawartha Nordic Ski Club (Nordic Ski Lane, north of Woodview).
The popular Swiss Bear in Apsley offers classic and European fare, including their signature schnitzel, as well as treats including butter tarts, fruit tarts, and pecan pie and fresh-ground French roast coffee, espresso, and cappuccino. (Photo: Swiss Bear Restaurant & Bakery)
With a perennially packed parking lot, The Swiss Bear Restaurant & Bakery on Highway 28 in Apsley is highly rated year round by cottagers and snow enthusiasts alike. Their famous brunch menu is second only to their signature schnitzel.
The Swiss Bear is owned and operated by the Sigrist family under the leadership of Chef Robert, who was raised in Switzerland where he studied culinary arts and apprenticed with Moevenpick Restaurant in Geneva. The restaurant’s unique menu offers European and classic fare as well as treats including butter tarts, fruit tarts, and pecan pie and fresh-ground French roast coffee, espresso, and cappuccino.
Winter hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday (brunch only).
The Swiss Bear is located at 10330 Highway 28, on the west side the highway between the north and south entrances to Apsley. For more information and to view the menu, visit swissbear.ca. You can also follow The Swiss Bear on Facebook.
The Grill at Burleigh Falls Inn
The Grill at Burleigh Falls Inn offers a bistro-inspired menu. (Photo: Burleigh Falls Inn)
The Grill at Burleigh Falls Inn (4791 Highway 28, Burleigh Falls) offers a bistro-inspired menu prepared by Chef Alexander Gillis, featuring appetizers, sandwiches, pasta, and mains, as well as a weekend breakfast menu.
Winter hours are 12 to 8 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, with breakfast served from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Mount Julian is a nine-table fine dining restaurant at Viamede Resort. During the winter, it’s open for dinner on Saturdays only; reservations are required. (Photo: Viamede Resort)
Mount Julian at Viamede Resort (595 Mount Julian-Viamede Rd., Woodview) is a nine-table fine dining restaurant nestled in the forest at Viamede.
The restaurant offers five, seven, or nine course tasting menus and a selection of more than 100 fine wines. Chef Alexander Barron carefully creates every dish with seasonal ingredients sourced from Viamede’s own farm and forests as well as from local farmers.
In the winter, Mount Julian is open on Saturdays by reservation only (call 1-800-461-1946). For more information, visit viamede.com/eat/mount-julian/.
1885 at Viamede Resort
1885 at Viamede Resort offers a casual dining experience for guests of the resort. If you’re not staying at the resort, you’ll need to make reservations. (Photo: Viamede Resort)
The 1885 restaurant at Viamede Resort (595 Mount Julian-Viamede Rd., Woodview) provides a casual dining experience featuring fireside couches, board games, darts, ping pong, and foosball.
1885 offers a breakfast menu (including vegetarian and low-fat options) and a seasonal lunch and dinner menu (including a kid-friendly menu) and is open from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. for breakfast, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch, and 5 to 9 p.m. for dinner.
Reservations are required if you’re not a guest of Viamede Resort (call 1-800-461-1946).
Peterborough Petes players in their pink jerseys at the 2018 Pink In The Rink game. This year's 10th anniverary game takes place on Saturday, February 2nd when the Petes take on the Oshawa Generals at the Peterborough Memorial Centre. (Photo: Pink In The Rink / Facebook)
The Peterborough Petes have announced the details of the 10th anniversary of Pink In The Rink game on Saturday, February 2nd when the Petes face off against the Oshawa Generals.
Again this year, a special Pink In The Rink jersey has been designed to honour those affected by cancer. For a donation of $20 to the Canadian Cancer Society, fans were able to add the name of someone with cancer to be printed on the jerseys.
During a live auction after the February 2nd game, fans will have the opportunity to bid on and purchase commemorative jerseys worn by players during the game.
The 2019 Pink In The Rink jersey design includes the names of people who have battled or are fighting cancer. (Illustration courtesy of Peterborough Petes)
Other game night fundraising activities will include a silent auction, a chuck-a-ball contest, and t-shirt sales.
This year’s campaign, which culminates with the February 2nd game, has a fundraising goal of $65,000.
In October, former Peterborough Petes and NHLers Steve Larmer and Cameron Mann were named as this year’s honourary campaign chairs. Each is seeking to raise $2,500 as part of the campaign (to donate, you can visit the Canadian Cancer Society’s fundraising pages for both Larmer and Mann).
As part of the campaign, Petes players will participate in two upcoming celebrity server nights on Wednesday, January 9th from 5 to 8 p.m. at Kelsey’s (1209 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough) restaurant and on Friday, January 11th from 5 to 8 p.m. at Montana’s (870 The Parkway, Peterborough).
Cameron Supryka (#3), Shawn Spearing (#7), Erik ?ermák (#10), Chris Paquette (#12), Nick Robertson (#16), Declan Chisholm (#20), Ryan Merkley (#25), Brady Hinz (#27), Max Grondin (#28), and Hunter Jones (#29) will be at Kelsey’s, and Cole Fraser (#2), Austin Osmanski (#6), Matt McNamara (#8), Zach Gallant (#11), Nick Isaacson (#15), Adam Timleck (#18), Semyon Der-Arguchintsev (#19), Cameron Butler (#21), Chad Denault (#22), John Parker-Jones (#26), and Tye Austin (#30) will be at Montana’s (subject to change).
The players will be signing autographs, acting as celebrity servers, and selling 2019 Pink in the Rink t-shirts for $10.
Since 2010, Pink In The Rink has raised more than $617,000 for women’s cancer research through the Canadian Cancer Society Peterborough & District — making it the top fundraising event in the Ontario Hockey League.
The Northumberland Fire & Frost Festival, taking place at Cobourg's Dalewood Golf Course on February 16th and 17th, is a celebration of craft beer, cider, food, music, and winter fun. (Photo: William Street Beer Company)
This month, food writer Eva Fisher sips by the fire at the Northumberland Fire & Frost Festival, has a gyro with homemade tzatziki at Messini’s Gyros & Grill, plans for a plant-based pop-up dinner at Dreams of Beans, and checks in at the grand opening of Nateure’s Plate.
New Northumberland Fire & Frost Festival toasts winter
The inaugural Northumberland Fire & Frost Festival takes place on Family Day weekend at Dalewood Golf Course in Cobourg.
Winter can be hard to appreciate, but add some skis or snowshoes, a warm snowsuit, a glass of great beer, good food, music, and a toasty bonfire, and you might start to think more warmly about the cold weather.
The first-ever Northumberland Fire & Frost Festival is coming to Dalewood Golf Club (7465 Dale Rd, Cobourg, 905-885-8409) on February 16th and 17th, 2019.
The family-friendly event is a collaboration between William Street Beer Company, Dalewood Golf Club, and Green Canoe Outfitters.
Sean Walpole, president of the William Street Beer Company, says that the festival is an opportunity for people to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
“More than anything else it’s a celebration of the rustic outdoor winter setting in the Northumberland Hills. Dalewood Golf Course is such a spectacular property year round.”
The event also comes at a quiet time for festival-goers.
“Microbreweries are inundated with festival events seven or eight months of the year,” Sean says.
By hosting a festival in the winter, Sean saw an opportunity to create a festival at a time when many beer enthusiasts have an open schedule. That, and the beer stays cold.
Green Canoe Outfitters will provide cross-country skis and snowshoes so that guests can enjoy the groomed trails at Dalewood Golf Course. (Photo: Green Canoe Outfitters)
Sean adds that the involvement of Green Canoe Outfitters “brings in this whole other element of structured organized outdoor activities that are totally family friendly and awesome.”
William Street Craft Beer Company is one of the beverage providers at the Northumberland Fire & Frost Festival. (Photo: William Street Craft Beer Company)
Trails are being cleared and marked for snowshoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing. Rentals will be available on site, or people can bring their own equipment.
The beverage providers for the event will be William Street Beer Company and Empire Cider. In addition to their regular offerings, William Street is planning a few surprise beverages themed especially for the occasion, and Empire Cider will offer warm mulled cider.
Dalewood Golf Club will offer a sit-down brunch for families to enjoy early in the day, but will bring a special menu of portable food outdoors for the latter part of the festival.
The music lineup includes Cale Crowe, Rory Taillon, The Valhounds, and Cleopatrick.
Messini’s Gyros and Grill offers Mediterranean flavour on Charlotte Street
Messini’s Gyros and Grill offers a full European menu, including chicken, pork, and lamb and beef gyros. (Photo: Messini’s Gyros and Grill)
Ruben Muthu has opened a new gyros restaurant in downtown Peterborough. Messini’s Gyros and Grill (228 Charlotte St, Peterborough, 705-748-0123) opened on December 18th, 2018.
“In Peterborough, nobody’s doing gyros like these,” Ruben explains. “That’s the reason we’re doing this here.”
So what goes into a Messini’s gyro?
I tried the beef and lamb gyros, but they also offer chicken or pork. The pita was perfectly grilled and stuffed with lots of meat, french fries, homemade garlicky tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, and onion.
In addition to gyros, Messini’s Gyros and Grill serves salads, stir fries, salmon and steaks, as well as poutine and pasta.
The restaurant offers a broad mix of European and Canadian food, made to order in an open kitchen, which Ruben says offers diners a chance to see how their food is made.
“We don’t want to hide anything. People know what they’re eating.”
This isn’t the first restaurant Ruben has been involved in. He is also a partner at Jack’s Family Restaurant in Norwood, Lakefield, and Peterborough. His 20 years in the restaurant business have taught him that location, quality, and value are key to bringing in the customers.
“It’s now getting busy for us. It’s a good location, good dining, and low prices.”
You can find Messini’s Gyros and Grill online at www.messinis.ca.
Pop Up Dinner with an air of mystery at Dreams of Beans
Chef Conner Clarkin has curated a three-course plant-based menu for a refined pop-up dining experience at Dreams of Beans Cafe. (Photo: Conner Clarkin)
Chef Conner Clarkin doesn’t give away his secrets. He has curated a mystery three-course plant-based dinner menu for Pop Up Dinner, a one-night only event hosted by Dreams of Beans Cafe (138 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-742-2406) on Saturday, January 26th beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Without providing specifics, Conner describes the menu as plant-based and refined. He is offering an innovative fine dining menu, developed during his three and a half years as a vegan.
“I want to show people that you can do cool stuff with just plants.”
Limited tickets for the Pop Up Dinner are available at Dreams of Beans Cafe or online. (Photo: Conner Clarkin)
There will be a virgin cocktail to accompany the meal, and Conner’s wife Tasha will create a dessert. The couple shares the Instagram handle @electriccityvegans.
Conner currently works at Camp Kawartha, but has previously worked at Food Forest and the Monaghan Cafe (he also performs in local indie punk band Heartless Romantics).
The dinner costs $40 per person. Tickets for Pop Up Dinner are available now at Dreams of Beans or online at www.ticketscene.ca/events/22844/.
Nateure’s Plate Grand Opening Celebration
Nateure’s Plate launches its full menu at their grand opening celebration on January 8th. (Photo: Nateure’s Plate)
New vegan restaurant Nateure’s Plate (182 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-874-1215) is hosting a grand opening celebration on January 8th from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Your first chance to check out their new expanded menu, the grand opening will feature classic pub food specials, chicken wings, and beer or a burger and a beer, with a twist — the entire menu is plant based.
The restaurant’s focus is vegan comfort food: macaroni and cheese, fish and chips, chicken parmesan and more … all made hearty, delicious, and vegan.
Nateure’s Plate is owned by siblings Danielle and Nate White. Vegan Sweet Home, which provides baked goods, is owned and operated by Courtney Vanden Anker.
The City of Peterborough is receiving $1,868,784 this year in gas tax funding to improve public transit. Six other municipalities in the Kawarthas will also receive a portion of gas tax funding. (Photo: Brianna Salmon, GreenUP)
Earlier today (January 8), Ontario Minister of Transportation Jeff Yurek announced the annual distribution of public transit funding from Ontario’s gas tax program.
The government is distributing $364 million to 107 municipalities across the province, including more than $3 million to seven municipalities in the Kawarthas. Of that amount, the City of Peterborough receives almost $1.9 million, with the City of Kawartha Lakes receiving the next largest amount at over $574,000.
Funding for Ontario’s gas tax program is determined by the number of litres of gasoline sold in the province. The program provides municipalities with two cents per litre of provincial gas tax revenues. The share each municipality receives is based on a formula of 70 per cent ridership and 30 per cent population.
Toronto is receiving the bulk of the gas tax funding at $185 million, followed by Ottawa with $37 million, Mississauga with $19 million, and York Region with $16 million. Brampton will receive $13 million, and Hamilton and Waterloo Region will each receive $11 million.
Municipalities receiving gas tax funding must use these funds towards their public transit capital and/or operating expenditures, at their own discretion. This can include upgrading transit infrastructure, increasing accessibility, purchasing transit vehicles, adding more routes, and extending hours of service.
Here is the breakdown of the share of gas tax funding for municipalities in the Kawarthas:
"The Woman Who Loves Giraffes", a biographical documentary in which Canadian biologist Dr. Anne Innis Dagg re-traces the steps of her groundbreaking 1956 journey to South Africa to study giraffes in the wild, is one of the 70 films screening at the 2019 ReFrame Film Festival in downtown Peterborough. The film will be shown on Saturday, January 26th at Showplace Performance Centre. Dr. Dagg, pictured here feeding giraffes at Chicago's Brookfield Zoo, will be attending the ReFrame screening. (Photo: Elaisa Vargas)
The complete schedule of films screening at the 2019 ReFrame Film Festival is now available at reframefilmfestival.ca.
You can also view the complete schedule on kawarthaNOW.com, the official media sponsor of ReFrame 2019.
A printed 56-page festival program will also soon be available.
The 15th annual festival will show 70 acclaimed social justice and environmental documentaries, including 10 by local filmmakers. The films will be screened at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, Showplace Performance Centre, and The Venue.
For the first time, local films will headline the opening and closing screenings of the festival.
The festival officially opens at 7:30 p.m. of Thursday, January 24th with a screening at Showplace of Youth Unstoppable, a feature film about the youth environmental movement by Slater Jewell-Kemker, who went to high school in Peterborough. Tickets for opening night are sold separately and cost $15 per person ($10 for festival passholders).
The festival closes at 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 27th with a screening at Showplace of Last Beer at the Pig’s Ear, a feature film about the now-closed legendary Peterborough tavern directed by local filmmaker Peter Blow.
After 152 years, the Pig’s Ear Tavern in downtown Peterborough closed in April 2017. “Last Beer at the Pig’s Ear”, a documentary about the legendary tavern directed by local filmmaker Peter Blow, closes out the ReFrame Film Festival on Sunday, January 27th at Showplace Performance Centre. (Photo: Wayne Eardley)
In between are almost 70 documentaries, half of which are feature-length films. A few highlights include:
Anthropocene: The Human Epoch (a documentary about human impact on Earth’s geological history by world-renowned photographer Edward Burtynsky and award-winning filmmakers Jennifer Baichwal and Nicholas de Pencier) at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, January 25th at Showplace.
The Woman Who Loves Giraffes, a biographical documentary in which Canadian biologist Dr. Anne Innis Dagg re-traces the steps of her groundbreaking 1956 journey to South Africa to study giraffes in the wild, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 26th at Showplace. Dr. Dagg will be attending the screening.
Fahrenheit 11/9 (Michael Moore’s look at Donald Trump’s ascension to the US presidency on November 9, 2016) at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 26th at the Market Hall.
Other special presentations at this year’s festival include:
Postings from Home — a family slideshow that discusses family, motherhood, the environment, and disability — that filmmaker Kelly O’Brien will perform live at 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, January 26th at the Market Hall.
Biidaaban: First Light, an interactive virtual reality project by celebrated Anishinaabe filmmaker Lisa Jackson and the National Film Board, will be shown from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 26th and Sunday, January 27th in the lobby of VentureNorth (270 George St., Peterborough). Rooted in the realm of Indigenous futurism, Biidaaban is a time-jump into a highly realistic — and radically different — Toronto of tomorrow.
Toronto filmmaker and mother of three Kelly O’Brien will perform her multimedia show “Postings from Home”, consisting of projected photos she has posted on Facebook and live voice narration, at ReFrame nn Saturday, January 26th at the Market Hall. (Photo: Kelly O’Brien)
ReFrame also includes panel discussions and artist talks, as well as food from local vendors. And The Theatre on King (171 King St., Peterborough) will be hosting weekend evening events, beginning with Drag Karaoke with Haus of Accounting at 9 p.m. on Friday, January 25th.
Festival passes are $60 ($50 for students and the underwaged), and include access to all films from Friday to Sunday. Single-day passes are also available for $25 each. Tickets for opening night on Thursday are sold separately and cost $15 per person ($10 for festival passholders).
Tickets and passes are available online at reframe.tickit.ca. They can also be purchased in person (cash only) in Peterborough at the GreenUP Store (378 Aylmer St. N., 705-745-3238) and Watson & Lou (383 Water St., 705-775-7568), in Lakefield at Happenstance Books & Yarns (44 Queen St., 705-652-7535) and in Millbrook at Pastry Peddler (17 King St. E., 705-932-7333).
Susan Ferley is the new Artistic Director and Mike Forrester is the new Managing Director of the Cameco Capitol Arts Centre in Port Hope. (Photos courtesy of Capitol Theatre)
The Cameco Capitol Arts Centre in Port Hope, commonly called the Capitol Theatre, has two new people at the helm.
On January 4, 2019, board chair Olga Cwiek announced the hiring of Susan Ferley as Artistic Director and Mike Forrester as Managing Director.
Ferley recently returned from London, England, where she spent a year studying actor training and coaching at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Prior to that, she was artistic director at the Grand Theatre in London, Ontario, from 2001 to 2016 — the longest-serving artistic director in that theatre’s history. During her time at the theatre, she helped eliminate a million-dollar deficit on a $4-million budget, and directed some of the theatre’s most notable productions.
She also served as artistic director at The Globe Theatre in Regina, Saskatchewan from 1990 to 1998, and was on the Board of Directors of the Canada Council for the Arts from 1998 to 2001.
“I am excited to begin this new adventure, and together with the Capitol’s board, staff and volunteers, building on the strengths of this beautiful and historically significant theatre,” Ferley says. “I love the beauty of Port Hope — an exquisite setting for this jewel of a theatre, and I am looking forward to becoming an active member of the community.”
Ferley will assume her new position at the Capitol in mid-February.
Mike Forrester will be relocating with his family from Vancouver, where he served as executive director of the Coastal Jazz & Blues Society from 2014 to 2017. The society stages the annual TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival, is the largest music event in British Columbia, with an annual budget of more than $4 million.
A French horn player, Forrester is a former vice president of marketing and development with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and a former vice president of Livent. He is also a past resident of Cobourg, where he worked in local radio.
“I am thrilled to join the staff, board and volunteers of the Capitol Theatre for the next chapter in the storied history of the venue,” Forrester says.
Forrester will assume his new position at the Capitol on January 14tth.
For the past five years, the role of artistic director at the Capitol was held by Antonio Sarmiento, who also functioned as general manager.
In October 2018, following a third-party assessment of the theatre’s five-year strategic plan, the theatre’s board decided to create two new positions: artistic director and managing director. Rather than apply for either position, Sarmiento chose to resign effective December 31, 2018.
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