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Your guide to the 2018 Ontario general election in the Kawarthas

By kawarthaNOW -

The Ontario legislature was formally dissolved yesterday (May 8) and the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario will issue a writ today naming Thursday, June 7th as the date of the 2018 Ontario general election.

After the writ drops, the election campaign will officially begin, including rules in place for election spending and fundraising.

The party leaders — including Liberal Premier Kathleen Wynne, PC leader Doug Ford, NDP leader Andrea Horwath, and Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner — are already hitting the campaign trail today.

You can expect to see signs popping up on lawns and at the sides of roads, ads from the major parties online and on television and radio, visits from the party leaders supporting the local candidates, and local candidates at your door seeking your support.

As of May 9th, the PCs continue to lead in the polls with 40 per cent support (enough to form a majority government), followed by the NDP at 29 per cent, with the Liberals trailing at 26 per cent. However, recent polling also suggests nearly half of Ontario voters haven’t fully made up their minds and most voters aren’t happy with any of the current leaders.

Here’s your guide to the provincial election in the Kawarthas:

New and changed provincial electoral districts in the Kawarthas

When the writ drops today for the election, Ontario’s previous 107 electoral districts will change to 124 for the 2018 general election, with some district boundaries also changing.

The changes were made in provincial legislation in 2015 to match federal election riding boundary changes and to reflect Ontario’s growing population.

In the Kawarthas, the previous Peterborough district is now called Peterborough—Kawartha, with Trent Lakes and North Kawartha townships moving from Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock into the new district and Otonabee-South Monaghan and Asphodel-Norwood townships moving to the new Northumberland—Peterborough South riding.

The new Northumberland—Peterborough South district was creating from the previous Peterborough, Northumberland—Quinte West, Durham, and Prince Edward—Hastings districts. The new Hastings—Lennox and Addington distrct was created from Lanark—Frontenac—Lennox and Addington and Prince Edward—Hastings districts.

Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock is now smaller, with with Trent Lakes and North Kawartha townships moving to Peterborough—Kawartha.

Maps of the districts from Elections Ontario are provided below, but if you are still unsure of your electoral district, you can visit eregistration.elections.on.ca/en/election/search and enter your postal code.

Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock

Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock electoral district

Peterborough—Kawartha

Peterborough-Kawartha electoral district

Northumberland—Peterborough South

Northumberland-Peterborough South electoral district

Hastings—Lennox and Addington

Hastings-Lennox and Addington electoral district

 

Provincial candidates in the Kawarthas

Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal, PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green candidate Gianne Broughton are among those vying to become Peterborough-Kawartha's next Member of Provincial Parliament.
Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal, PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green candidate Gianne Broughton are among those vying to become Peterborough—Kawartha’s next Member of Provincial Parliament.

Here are the declared candidates and party affliations for the electorial districts in the Kawarthas.

Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock

  • Laurie Scott — Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario (incumbent)
  • Brooklynne Cramp-Waldinsperge — Liberal Party of Ontario
  • Zachary Miller — New Democratic Party of Ontario
  • Gene Balfour — Ontario Libertarian Party
  • Thomas Rhyno — Independent

Peterborough—Kawartha

  • Jeff Leal — Liberal Party of Ontario (incumbent)
  • Dave Smith — Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Sean Conway — New Democratic Party of Ontario
  • Gianne Broughton — Green Party of Ontario
  • Jacob Currier — Ontario Libertarian Party
  • Rod Roddick — Trillium Party of Ontario
  • Bob Abrahams — Independent

Northumberland—Peterborough South

  • Lou Rinaldi — Liberal Party of Ontario (incumbent)
  • David Piccini — Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Jana Papuckoski — New Democratic Party of Ontario
  • Jeff Wheeldon — Green Party of Ontario
  • John O’Keefe — Ontario Libertarian Party
  • Derek Sharp — Trillium Party of Ontario

Hastings—Lennox and Addington

  • Daryl Kramp — Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Tim Rigby — Liberal Party of Ontario
  • Nate Smelle — New Democratic Party of Ontario
  • Sari Watson — Green Party of Ontario
  • Greg Scholfield — Ontario Libertarian Party
  • Lonnie Herrington — Trillium Party of Ontario
  • Grant Dewar — Independent

A earlier version of this story incorrectly identified Daryl Kramp as the incumbent candidate for Hastings—Lennox and Addington. There is no incumbent candidate as this is a new riding created in 2015.

 

Upcoming all-candidate meetings and debates in the Kawarthas

Here’s a list of upcoming provincial candidate meetings and debates in the Kawarthas. All events are free and open to the public.

Peterborough—Kawartha

  • Thursday, May 10th – The Buckhorn Rate Payers are hosting an an all-candidates meeting at 7 p.m. at the Buckhorn Community Centre (1782 Lakehurst Rd., Buckhorn).
  • Monday, May 14th – Peterborough Public Health is hosting an all-candidates meeting on health and social issues from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Peterborough Public Health (185 King St., Peterborough). All locally registered candidates who are running for provincial election have been invited to participate. The meeting will be moderated by Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough Public Health.
  • Tuesday, May 15th – Electric City Culture Council and Artspace are hosting an all-candidates debate on the arts at 8 p.m. at Artspace (378 Aylmer St. N., Peterborough). All of the candidates have confirmed with the exception of the independent candidate Bob Abrahams. Each candidate will have up to three minutes to speak about their party platform and key arts and culture issues, and to respond to five critical questions about arts advocacy: the lower income levels of local artists, investment in the Ontario Arts Council, arts education in our schools, and the cultural impact of responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. There will also be a question-and-answer period for the audience. The discussion will be moderated by Julia Harrison, President of the Reframe Film Festival.
  • Wednesday, May 16th – Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of Realtors (PKAR) and the Peterborough & The Kawarthas Home Builders Association are hosting an all-candidates meeting on housing, home ownershiop, and small business from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Peterborough Lions Community Centre (347 Burnham St. Peterborough). The panel discussion wil be moderated by 2018 PKAR president Kristi Doyle.
  • Thursday, May 17th – The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is also hosting an all-candidates meeting on issues affecting the business community from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Peterborough Waterfront (150 George St. N., Peterborough). Sandra Dueck of the CHamber will be moderating.
  • Tuesday, May 22nd – For Our Grandchildren and Leap Manifesto Peterborough are hosting an all-candidates meeting on climate change and sustainability from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 22nd at at Trinity United Church (360 Reid St., Peterborough. The meeting will focus on letting the candidates hear what their constituents feel on the issues, with the candidates responding at the end. Background information and questions have been sent to all provincial candidates in the areas of economic opportunities for the Peterborough area, natural spaces and biodiversity, agriculture and food, CO2 reduction, and a question from our youth community.
  • Wednesday, May 23rd – The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is hosting an all-candidates meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 23rd at the Lakefield Legion (10 Nicholls St., Lakefield). David Goyette will be moderating. The meeting will feature a question-and-answer session moderated by David Goyette.
  • Thursday, May 24th – The Youth Political Activist Coalition is hosting an “Action Against Poverty” community town hall from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Kenner Collegiate (633 Monaghan Rd. S., Peterborough). The town hall will cover issues related to housing, food security, employment, education, basic income, and health care. Jeaf Leal, Sean Conway, Gianne Broughton, and Jacob Currier have confirmed they will attend. Dave Smith has declined, and Rob Roddick has yet to confirm. Marion Burton will be attending to represent the Peterborough Labour Council. The event will be moderated by Morgan Carl.
  • CANCELLED – Monday, May 28th – The Peterborough Sales & Ad Club is hosting a debate between the NDP, Liberal, and Conservative party candidates for Peterborough—Kawartha at 7 p.m. at Holiday Inn – Waterfront (150 George St. N., Peterborough). Vince Bierworth of Country 105 and Energy 99.7 will moderate the debate. The debate will be preceded by a dinner at 6 p.m. for Sales & Ad Club members and guests only (doors open at 5:30 p.m.).
  • Thursday, May 31st – The Trent University Faculty Association, CUPE 3908, and Peterborough District Labour Council are hosting an all-candidates meeting on labour issues from 6 to 8 p.m. at McDonnel Street Activity Centre (577 McDonnel St., Peterborough, K9H 2Y1). Refreshments will be provided.

Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock

  • Wednesday, May 16th – The Lindsay Chamber of Commerce is hosting an all-candidates meeting at 7 p.m. at Mackey’s Celebrations (35 Lindsay St. N., Lindsay). Each candidate will make opening remarks followed by a question and answer session, moderated by Ward Levine (Treasurer, RTO-ERO, District 18).
  • Monday, May 28th – The Halbiruton Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting an all-candidates meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. at Pinestone Resort (4252 Haliburton County Rd. 21, Haliburton).

Northumberland—Peterborough South

  • Thursday, May 10th – Local health organizations are hosting an all-candidates meeting on health issues from at 6 p.m. at Ganaraska Trails Public School (34 Percival St., Port Hope. There will be a meet and greet with the candidates at 6 p.m. followed by a discussion at 6:45 p.m. moderated by Lynda Kay.
  • Tuesday, May 15th – The Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce is hosting an all-candidates meeting from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Campbellford District High School (119 Ranney St. N., Campbellford). The event will feature a meet and greet at 6 p.m. followed by a moderated question-and-answer session beginning at 6:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, May 17th – Retired Teachers of Ontario is hosting an all-candidates meeting at 7 p.m. at Best Western Cobourg (920 Burnham St., Cobourg).
  • Wednesday, May 23rd – Newcastle Chamber of Commerce is hosting an all-candidates meeting at 7 p.m. at Clarke High School (3425 Hwy 35/115, Newcastle).
  • Thursday, May 24th – Northumberland 89.7 is hosting an all-candidates meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. at Skeena Hall (17 Mill St. S., Port Hope). This is a formal Q&A debate with a moderator. Email your questions for consideration to 2018debate@northumberland897.ca.
  • Wednesday, May 30th – Sustainable Cobourg is hosting an all-candidates meeting on environmental issues from 7 to 9 p.m. at HTM Insurance Company (1185 Elgin St. W., Cobourg). The format will be a Q&A session moderated by Jayne Finn. Email your environmentally related questions for consideration to sustainablecobourg@gmail.com.

Hastings—Lennox and Addington

  • Thursday, May 24th – The Education Workers Political Action Committee is hosting an all-candidates meeting on education issues from 7 to 8 p.m. at North Hastings High School (14 Monck St., Bancroft).

Note: We will update this list as more events are announced. If you are hosting or are aware of an event not included above, please email details to editor@kawarthanow.com.

For Danny Michel, music (and life) is an adventure

By Bruce Head -
Musician Danny Michel on the deck of the legendary Soviet-era Russian icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov during an 18-day arctic expedition, where he wrote and recorded all the songs on his award-winning 2017 album "Khlebnikov". Michel performs at the Market Hall in Peterborough on May 27, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

Danny Michel, who’s performing at Peterborough’s Market Hall on Thursday, May 24th, is another one of those amazing Canadian musicians you may have heard of.

Market Hall Performing Arts Centre presents
An Evening with Danny Michel

When:Thursday May 24, 2018 at 8 p.m.
Where: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
How much: $20/$25

Tickets are available at the Market Hall Box Office, by calling 705-749-1146, or online at markethall.org.

Perhaps you’ve heard his 2017 song “24,000 Horses” which he wrote and recorded on a Russian icebreaker in the high Arctic at the invitation of retired astronaut Chris Hadfield.

Or maybe one of his David Bowie covers from his 2004 album Loving the Alien, or maybe you heard him performing on the late Stuart McLean’s The Vinyl Cafe.

Maybe you’ve donated to one of many worthy causes Danny supports, such as The Danny Michel Ocean Academy Fund or The Isaac Foundation.

Possibly you’ve been to one of his School Night Mondays shows, with musical guests like Jim Cuddy, Oh Susanna, Whitehorse, Tom Cochrane, and Amelia Curran. Or maybe you’ve seen his web series “Dan’s Space Van” featuring a Star Trek themed van that travels the world and features interesting people and musical guests.

VIDEO: “24,000 Horses” – Danny Michel

Or you might have read Danny’s plea on social media last summer, after he accidentally left one of his favourite guitars at a Tesla charging station in Barrie, where it was found and returned to him by an Innisfil baker — who then found himself with a load of new customers grateful for his good deed.

A lifelong David Bowie fan, 10-year-old Danny Michel receives a Bowie poster for Christmas. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)
A lifelong David Bowie fan, 10-year-old Danny Michel receives a Bowie poster for Christmas. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

Even if none of this sounds familiar, you’ll want to read on — because Danny Michel is one of the most creative and adventurous Canadian singer-songwriters and music producers you’re likely to discover.

We’re certainly not the first to say this. The Winnipeg Sun wrote he’s been “criminally overlooked” and The Toronto Star wrote he “must be a bit weary of being ranked as one of this country’s undiscovered musical treasures. But it’s true.”

Of course, that’s not a surprise to Danny’s devoted fan base. They already know about his thoughtful lyrics and his earnest performances, and the way his music so effortlessly crosses genres from folk, pop, rock, and even classical. Danny’s been nominated for three Juno awards and the Polaris prize, and he won two Canadian Folk Music Awards just last year.

Danny Michel was born on January 31, 1970 in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, where he also grew up. He was interested in music from a young age.

“When I was tall enough to reach up and bang the keys on the piano I was doing it,” he says in a 2015 interview with Catherine Bird in the Canadian environmental magazine Alternatives Journal.

“I loved the technical part of music too. My dad used to have the old reel to reel machines and I used to love playing with them when I was a kid. I would record my voice on it and play with it and change the speed of my voice. Then I would put the tape on backwards and play it backwards.”

VIDEO: “Nobody Rules You” – Danny Michel

“I didn’t do well in school because my head was in a cloud of music stuff and everyone was telling me ‘you can’t do that’ and my guidance counsellors were saying ‘you’ve got to get serious Michel’ and I never did. I just ignored everyone and kept my eye on the prize.”

Danny Michel with his guitar in grade nine in Kitchener-Waterloo. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)
Danny Michel with his guitar in grade nine in Kitchener-Waterloo. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

And that he did. By the time he was a teenager, he was already performing. In 1986, at the age of 16, he played his first gig at The Level 21 in Kitchener-Waterloo (he had to sneak in).

A couple of years later, he joined The Rhinos, an eclectic rock band from Kitchener that disbanded in 1995. He then moved to Ottawa where he joined power-pop band Starling, and also performed his own material as Danny Michel and The Wedding Band with Starling members Ian LeFeuvre and Peter von Althen.

Four years later, he split from Starling and went solo, releasing his first record Fibsville in 1999. This was followed by 2001’s In the Belly of a Whale, Tales from the Invisible Man in 2003, and then Loving the Alien in 2004, cover album of David Bowie songs (Danny has been a huge Bowie fan from a young age).

Danny released Valhalla in 2006, Welcome Home + Danny Michel and the Black Tornados Live DVD in 2007, Feather, Fur & Fin in 2008, Live in Winnipeg and Sunset Sea in 2010, Black Birds Are Dancing Over Me in 2012, Matadora in 2016, and Khlebnikov in 2017.

The last album brought Danny a measure of well-deserved attention from mainstream media for several reasons, not the least of which was that he wrote and recorded all the songs on the album in the cabin of an icebreaker in the arctic.

Danny Michel on the deck of the Russian icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)
Danny Michel on the deck of the Russian icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

In 2016, retired Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, along with his son Evan, invited a small group of 10 scientists, photographers, writers, and musicians — including Danny — to join “Generator Arctic”, an 18-day arctic expedition through the northwest passage aboard the legendary Soviet-era Russian icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov. The Hadfields conceived of the journey as an extension of their famed science-based variety shows aimed at blending knowledge, music, and comedy.

Danny wrote and recorded all the songs on Khlebnikov in a makeshift studio in Cabin 712, using only a Larrivée parlour guitar, a couple of microphones, and a laptop.

Back in Canada, brass and string arrangements written by Danny’s childhood friend and celebrated film and TV composer Rob Carli were added to the recordings Two tracks on the record are sung in Russian, including one featuring the voice of Chris Hadfield.

“I fell in love with that ship,” Danny says in a February 2017 interview with Ben Rayner of The Toronto Star. “I’ve never liked a machine so much. I mean, I like old cars, but you know what this was like? It was like the Millennium Falcon. You know the love that us boys had for that thing? It was like the Millennium Falcon meets the Grand Budapest Hotel.”

Danny Michel in Belize in Central America, where he started The Danny Michel Ocean Academy Fund to raise funds for a local school. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)
Danny Michel in Belize in Central America, where he started The Danny Michel Ocean Academy Fund to raise funds for a local school. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

“When you go down into the engine room and the control rooms, it’s astonishing. As a guy who loves gear — like, old gear in a recording studio — all the machines and dials and these old vintage consoles, it’s gorgeous.”

“Our job was to absorb the experience and bring it back and share it with the world in whatever way we wanted to. There were no rules. It was like ‘Let’s just all go experience this together and see what comes out of it from each of you.’ It was nuts. It was just overwhelming.

“For me, to be able to go to see this corner of the planet that so few people get to see. Like, literally: I felt like I got to go to the moon or something.”

VIDEO: “Sad And Beautiful World” – Danny Michel with The Garifuna Collective

His arctic journey was only Danny’s latest foreign adventure. After visiting the Central American country of Belize for 15 years, Danny relocated there in 2011 to track down one of his favorite Belizean bands, The Garifuna Collective. He convinced them to record an album together.

Billboard called Black Birds Are Dancing Over Me “one of the finest musical works of our time”, and it garnered Danny a “World Music” Juno nod and was longlisted for the Polaris Music Prize, and led to a sold-out summer tour of North America with The Garifuna Collective.

The Belize collaboration also led Danny to one of his many philanthropic pursuits. While in Belize, he also founded the “Danny Michel Ocean Academy Fund”, which helps fund scholarships for a small non-profit community high school and has raised over $74,000 for the school so far.

Danny is also a supporter of The Isaac Foundation, which raises funds for research into mcopolysaccharidoses (MPS), a group of rare metabolic genetic disorders including Hunter Syndrome, which causes the progressive loss of physical and mental function; it primarily affects boys, most of whom don’t survive past their teenage years.

Danny usually performs at the foundation’s annual gala fundraiser, as he did at this year’s gala held this past Saturday (May 5) at The Venue in Peterborough.

Danny Michel at The Issaac Foundation's annual fundraiser gala at The Venue in Peterborough on May 5, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)
Danny Michel at The Issaac Foundation’s annual fundraiser gala at The Venue in Peterborough on May 5, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

Danny’s other charitable causes have included Ghana Medical Help, The Spirit of John (for the Alzheimer Society, named in honour of Spirit of the West lead singer John Mann), The David Suzuki Foundation’s Blue Dot tour, and The Andy Kim Christmas concert for charities including The Starlight Children’s Foundation.

As if all that isn’t enough, Danny also launched his web series “Dan’s Space Van” in 2015, after purchasing 1978 GMC G15 Vandura van from the original owner who had commissioned Toronto artist Gordon S. Roy to airbush the van in a Star Trek theme. The van includes portraits of Leonard McCoy, Captain Kirk, and Spock, as well as the starship Enterprise shooting a phaser at a psychedelic moonscape. It has a diamond quilted and crushed red velvet interior.

“I’m a Canadian musician with a crazy idea that could really honour your van,” Danny wrote in his pitch to the owner, who was selling the van on Craigslist. “I buy it, fly out west and tour back across Canada to get it home. We do a special show in Vulcan (Alberta) and stop to visit the artist. Maybe we could some Q on CBC Radio coverage? We document the whole thing. I may have completely lost it but life is short. This could be really fun and give the van a real adventure and attention it deserves.”

Danny Michel's Star Trek van, home to his "Dan's Space Van" mobile web series. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)
Danny Michel’s Star Trek van, home to his “Dan’s Space Van” mobile web series. (Photo courtesy of Danny Michel)

Danny was true to his word, and he travels the world in his van, interviewing people and featuring musical guests who perform in the van, including Alan Doyle, Jim Cuddy, The Milk Carton Kids, Ed Robertson, Hawksley Workman, Chris Hadfield, Matt Mays, and Neil Osborne. Now in its third season, the 21 episodes of “Dan’s Space Van” are available on Danny’s YouTube channel.

We’re exhausted just writing about everything Danny Michel has been doing. Apparently, Danny himself was a little exhausted. Last year, he moved to “the country” — a small community in Grey County, Ontario, close to the Bruce Trail.

As he often records all the instrumentation for his songs, he’s set up an extensive studio in his new home (he calls it “Danlandia Gardens Studios”), which looks out onto a rural treed landscape often visited by deer. It’s where he’s recording his next album.

VIDEO: Danny Michel in his home studio recording a song for his new album

“Without a doubt, it’s been the greatest decision of my life,” Danny writes on Instagram. “The change in lifestyle, priorities, health, and headspace is profound. Living deep in nature, caring for gardens, wildlife and land has uncovered the best version of me I’ve known.”

He’s also an avid skier, so being in close proximity to ski hills, including Blue Mountain near Collingwood, is icing on the cake. If you live in the area, you can catch Danny and his band at School Night Mondays during May 2018 at Crow. Bar and Variety in Collingwood.

For Danny’s performance at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough) on Thursday, May 24th, tickets are $25 for assigned cabaret table seats or $20 for general admission, and are available in person at the Market Hall Box Office, by phone at 705-749-1146, or online at markethall.org.

KNosh News – May 2018

By Eva Fisher -
A Taste of Downtown will bring 26 restaurant vendors and two entertainment stages to Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough on Saturday, June 2, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)

This month, food writer Eva Fisher gets ready for summer with two new ice cream stops in Bobcaygeon and Peterborough, a craft brewery in Fenelon Falls, and the return of downtown Peterborough’s food-themed street festival.

Taste beer from the Fenelon Falls Brewing Company before it opens

Agatha and Vinh Mac are in the process of opening the Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. In the meantime, you can taste their beer at local restaurants beginning on the May long weekend and at their Beer Release Party on June 15, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.)
Agatha and Vinh Mac are in the process of opening the Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. In the meantime, you can taste their beer at local restaurants beginning on the May long weekend and at their Beer Release Party on June 15, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.)

Something new is brewing in Fenelon Falls — and on June 15th from 7 to 10 p.m., you can give it a taste.

Agatha and Vinh Mac are in the process of opening the Fenelon Falls Brewing Company (4 May St, Fenelon Falls, 705-215-9898). The new brewery will be located at the old Livery Stable building, a beautiful stone building across from the locks in Fenelon Falls.

They considered renting the building out, but they realized that by starting their own business they could make a real impact on the town. As Agatha puts it:

One of the Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.'s flagship beers, the Vienna Lager. Agatha and Vinh are planning to offer easy drinking but distinctive beers. (Photo courtesy of Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.)
One of the Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.’s flagship beers, the Vienna Lager. Agatha and Vinh are planning to offer easy drinking but distinctive beers. (Photo courtesy of Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.)

“We could do something that would change Fenelon. We’re not brewers, we’re not beer connoisseurs; we just enjoy good beer. And we thought that’s exactly what Fenelon needs: a place for the community to gather and also to really put it on the map and make it a destination.”

Agatha and Vinh first decided to open a brewery two years ago, but they were delayed by the trip of a lifetime.

“We’ve been planning for eight years to go away for a full year and travel around the world,” Agatha explains.

That’s not to say that they weren’t sampling beer on their journey.

“We were in Poland, the Czech Republic. Amazing beers there. We had some really fresh beer in Vietnam, and in Australia. Some great Pacific Ales.”

They expect to open in September, but in the meantime they’re throwing a beer-tasting party on Friday, June 15th at the Fenelon Falls Seniors Centre (58 Murray St, Fenelon Falls,) to release their two flagship beers: a Red Ale and a Vienna Lager.

Agatha says that the beer has had a positive reception thus far.

“We had a tasting here in Fenelon Falls and the feedback was really incredible. There seems to be nothing quite like it. And they’re also very approachable, that was important to us. They’re not too bitter, just nice, easy, and refreshing to drink.”

Tickets for the beer tasting are $25, with all proceeds from the beer tasting will go to the Kawartha Lakes Community Foundation. For more information and beer-tasting tickets, visit www.fenelonfallsbrewing.com.

You can also look for Fenelon Falls Brewing Company beer in local restaurants beginning on the May long weekend.

 

Bigley’s Sweet Treats offers ice cream with fashionable flair

You can match your ice cream to your shoes at Bigley's Sweet Treats in Bobcaygeon. (Graphic: Bigley's Sweet Treats)
You can match your ice cream to your shoes at Bigley’s Sweet Treats in Bobcaygeon. (Graphic: Bigley’s Sweet Treats)

“Happiness is ice cream & new shoes.”

That’s the motto of Bigley’s Sweet Treats (55 Bolton Street, Bobcaygeon, 705-738-2522), a new ice cream shop opening on the Friday of the May long weekend (May 18).

Owner Sherry Peel (also the owner of Bigley Shoes and Clothing) says the idea to open an ice cream shop came after she had already bought the building, which had served ice cream previously as Wild Palm.

“The customers seemed to really want that ice cream shop, so we decided to keep it as what it was. It has been an ice cream shop for 20 years at least.”

A designer's rendering of Bigley's Sweet Treats, a new modern ice cream shop opening in Bobcaygeon this spring. (Graphic: Bigley's Sweet Treats)
A designer’s rendering of Bigley’s Sweet Treats, a new modern ice cream shop opening in Bobcaygeon this spring. (Graphic: Bigley’s Sweet Treats)

Sherry decided to take that concept and give it a more up-to-date aesthetic.

“We’re making it quite modern and fun. We have a pink neon sign for people to take social media pictures with. It’s a fun place to come and feel good and enjoy some really great desserts.”

With its turquoise, pink, and white colour scheme, the shop’s decor is inspired by Florida’s Key West — but when it comes to the ice cream, Bigley’s Sweet Treats is pure Kawarthas.

Not only will they serve Kawartha Dairy ice cream, they will offer a variety of sundaes inspired by cottage country, including the Lock 32 Warm Brownie Sundae, Kawartha Lakes Pralines with Nuts Hot Fudge Sundae, Pigeon Lake Caramel & Sea Salt Sundae, and the Sturgeon Lake S’mores Chocolate Sundae.

They will also offer soft serve, which can be flavoured with up to three of nine flavour bursts or dipped in one of 12 varieties of warm Belgian chocolate.

You can even have it in a Bobcaygeon Razzle: soft serve ice cream blended with candy.

While you can enjoy Bigley’s Sweet Treats beginning on the May long weekend, watch for the grand opening celebration on Canada Day (July 1).

 

A Taste of Downtown to rock Charlotte Street this June

McThirsty's Pint's potato spirals have been a common sight at previous Taste of Downtown events. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
McThirsty’s Pint’s potato spirals have been a common sight at previous Taste of Downtown events. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)

A Taste of Downtown returns on Saturday, June 2nd. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., a portion of Charlotte Street will become a pedestrian-friendly food street festival featuring 26 local restaurants.

Terry Guiel, executive Director of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area, says that this year’s event is one to really look forward to.

Delicious food will be available from 26 local restaurants at this year's Taste of Downtown. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
Delicious food will be available from 26 local restaurants at this year’s Taste of Downtown. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)

“This is the biggest one we’ve had. People can expect an incredibly wide variety of culinary expertise, and they all bring their A game to this.”

Terry suggests bringing some money and an appetite to try something new.

“Experiment. Check out some of the newer restaurants.”

From sample-sized fare to large plates, A Taste of Downtown has it all.

There will be a beer garden offering Publican House beer where you can also enjoy live rock and roll and jazz music. Another stage emphasizes cultural diversity: here you can dance to steel drums or savour the melodies of the Guzheng, a Chinese harp.

Terry says that A Taste of Downtown shows off the best of what downtown Peterborough has to offer.

“With Taste of Downtown, we’re showcasing what we do best. The Peterborough downtown is known for its entertainment and its restaurants. We have over 90 places to eat in the downtown, and the variety is incredible.”

For more information, visit downtownptbo.ca.

 

Pedal Parlor Co. to peddle nostalgic ice cream treats throughout the region

Pedal Parlor Co. is bringing back the nostalgic ice cream bike back to Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Pedal Parlor Co.)
Pedal Parlor Co. is bringing back the nostalgic ice cream bike back to Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Pedal Parlor Co.)

Once upon a time, bicycle ice cream vendors were a common sight — the Dickie Dee bike was a beloved fixture of any summer downtown.

Jesse Guerin and Niki Allday of Pedal Parlour Co. are bringing that tradition back, by peddling ice cream at events, weddings, and on the streets of Peterborough beginning this week.

“It was actually Jesse’s idea.” Niki explains. “When we first started dating years ago, he had this vision to open up what used to be a Dickie Dee bike.”

Niki held off, saying that they should wait until they bought their first house. As if by fate, two months after they bought their first home a refurbished Dickie Dee bike came on the market.

Local popsicle makers Peterpops have developed a flavour exclusively for Pedal Parlor Co. The Hawaiian Island Colada is a mix of pineapple, coconut milk and orange with a cherry on top. (Photo courtesy of Pedal Parlor Co. / Instagram)
Local popsicle makers Peterpops have developed a flavour exclusively for Pedal Parlor Co. The Hawaiian Island Colada is a mix of pineapple, coconut milk and orange with a cherry on top. (Photo courtesy of Pedal Parlor Co. / Instagram)

The couple set to work making their nostalgic dream come true. Some of the classic flavours have been discontinued: the ghost popsicle with the gumball nose and the chocolate baseball glove with the gumball ball are no longer manufactured. But you can still enjoy creamsicles, fudgsicles, and the firecracker (previously known as the rocket pop).

Pedal Parlor Co is also bringing in some new treats. They offer healthy popsicles made by local artisanal popsicle makers Peterpops. This will include a new flavour developed exclusively for Pedal Parlor Co: the Hawaiian Colada. This is a blend of pineapple, coconut milk, and oranges with a cherry frozen on top.

In addition to treats for humans, Niki and Jesse have developed “Pupsicles” exclusively for dogs.

For "hot" dogs, Pedal Parlor Co. Offers Pupsicles, a chicken-based treat. (Photo courtesy of Pedal Parlor Co.)
For “hot” dogs, Pedal Parlor Co. Offers Pupsicles, a chicken-based treat. (Photo courtesy of Pedal Parlor Co.)

“We have two rescue dogs who obviously get very hot in the summer, as do the rest of us!” Nikki explains.

These water and chicken-based treats will come in two flavours: peanut butter and apple.

The grand opening launch of Pedal Parlor Co. will be at Whelan’s Flooring on Saturday May 26th.

Watch for Pedal Parlor Co. on the streets of Peterborough, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Police arrest teen for vandalism at Peterborough community bike shop

By kawarthaNOW -
B!KE, a non-profit organization in downtown Peterborough supporting cycling, was vandalized in April 2018. Police have arrested and charged a 17-year-old Peterborough youth. (Photo coutesy of B!KE)

Police have arrested and charged a 17-year-old Peterborough man for an April break-in at the B!KE community bike shop in downtown Peterborough.

Sometime between April 21st and 22nd, the teen is alleged to have broken into B!KE (293 George St.) through a secure door.

Once inside, the teen is accused of using spray paint to damage the walls, ceilings, floors, bikes, and merchandise causing approximately $10,000 in damage. Also during the incident, a bike was stolen.

According to B!KE executive director Tegan Moss, swear words and messages of hate and anger were painted on the walls.

As a result of an investigation, police went to a Peterborough residence yesterday (May 7) and arrested the teenager. He is charged with break and enter, mischief over $5,000, and failure to comply with a sentence.

The teen was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on May 28, 2018. Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the name of the teen cannot be released.

B!KE is a non-profit organization supporting adults and youths within Peterborough by providing them with skills needed to build, repair, and maintain bikes.

Fuel oil spill contaminates water in southern section of Balsam Lake

By kawarthaNOW -
A view of Balsam Lake in the City of Kawartha Lakes. (Photo: Balsam Lake Association / Facebook)

The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit is urging people who draw water directly from a southern section of Balsam Lake to use bottled water until further notice.

There was a fuel oil spill late Sunday afternoon (May 6) affecting the South Bay section of Balsam Lake, which is located in the City of Kawartha Lakes.

Around 100 properties along parts of Romany Ranch Road and Killarney Bay Road are affected.

Those residents should not use water drawn from the lake for drinking, cooking, making juice and infant formula, washing fruits and vegetables, dish washing, or brushing teeth.

Because of the nature of the fuel spill, boiling the lake water is not effective.

Notices about the water situation have been delivered to affected property owners, and more information is available by calling the Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577 ext. 5006.

The Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change is aware of the fuel spill and is monitoring the situation as cleanup efforts continue.

People in this area of Balsam Lake who rely on wells for drinking water are not affected by this advisory.

businessNOW – May 7, 2018

By kawarthaNOW -
Kawartha Settlers' Village in Bobcaygeon is one of four attractions in the Kawarthas that are finalists in the 2018 Ontario's Choice Awards. Lang Pioneer Village in Keene, Ganaraska Treetop Trekking in Campbellcroft, and Westben Theatre in Campbellford are also finalists. You can vote for these and your other favourite attractions until the end of September, with the winners announced in October. (Photo: Kawartha Settlers' Village)

This week’s business news features four attractions in the Kawarthas that are finalists in the 2018 Ontario’s Choice Awards, one last season for Milltown Mini Golf in Peterborough, Random Acts of Green looking for input on its new mobile app, seven youth entrepreneurs elected for the Innovation Cluster’s Slingshot program, and construction begins on the new Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton Peterborough.

New business events include: Scott Adams of Birchbark Media speaking on May 8th and leading a video interview techniques workshop on May 16th; Peterborough-Kawartha all-candidates meetings on May 16th, 17th and 23rd; the Junior Achievement Business Hall for Fame induction ceremony and dinner on May 24th; and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Annual General Meeting on June 27th.

Four attractions in the Kawarthas are among 2018 Ontario’s Choice Awards finalists

Ganaraska Treetop Treeking in Campbellcroft is a finalist in the 2018 Ontario's Choice Awards "Top Outdoor Attraction" category. (Photo: Treetop Trekking Ganaraska)
Ganaraska Treetop Treeking in Campbellcroft is a finalist in the 2018 Ontario’s Choice Awards “Top Outdoor Attraction” category. (Photo: Treetop Trekking Ganaraska)

Four attractions in the Kawarthas are finalists in the 2018 Ontario’s Choice Awards, presented by the non-profit Attractions Ontario association.

Both Kawartha Settlers’ Village in Bobcaygeon and Lang Pioneer Village in Keene are finalists in the “Top Small Museum/Art Galleries/Historic Site” category.

Ganaraska Treetop Treeking in Campbellcroft is a finalist for “Top Outdoor Attraction” and Westben Theatre in Campbellford is a finalist for “Top Performing Arts Attraction”.

Voting is now open for the third annual awards in eight categories until September 30, 2018. Vote for your favourite attraction at attractionsontario.ca/ontarioschoice/.

Winners of each category will be announced on October 1, 2018, along with the three attractions that receive the most votes overall.

The attraction that receives the most votes across all categories will be declared the Attraction of the Year. This winner will be announced and awarded at the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario Tourism Summit in October 2018.

Both Treetop Trekking and Lang Pioneer Village were winners of their respective categories in the 2017 awards, and were also among the top three vote-getters.

 

Milltown Mini Golf in Peterborough is open for one final year

Originally scheduled to be closed this year, Milltown Mini Golf is open for one final season. A grand re-opening celebration will be held at May 20, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Milltown Mini Golf)
Originally scheduled to be closed this year, Milltown Mini Golf is open for one final season. A grand re-opening celebration will be held at May 20, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Milltown Mini Golf)

One of Peterborough’s favourite family attractions, Milltown Mini Golf (933 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough), is staying open for one more year.

Last summer, owners Barry and Lynda Cross announced they would be closing in the fall of 2017 after 33 years in business when their landlord sold the two-acre property to a local developer. However, the developer’s application for redevelopment has been delayed, allowing Milltown Mini Golf to operate for one more season.

VIDEO: Milltown Mini Golf Commercial (2015)

Milltown Mini Golf, which calls itself a “family fun centre”, doesn’t just offer mini golf. They also have batting cages, rock wall climbing, treasure hunts, and more. It’s also been a popular location for wedding proposals and receptions, birthday parties, family gatherings, and more. The business has 12 employees.

A grand re-opening celebration will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 10th, with City of Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett and Councillor Lesley Parnell in attendance. Barry and Lynda Cross are inviting all customers, area residents, and friends to join us in the celebration, which will include a free game of mini golf for all who attend.

The Crosses, who have sponsored many community fundraising efforts in the past, will also be donating $250 to the Brock Mission rebuild project.

For more information about Milltown Mini Golf, visit www.milltownminigolf.com.

 

Random Acts of Green is building a new mobile app and wants your input

Jessica Correa (front), founder of social enterprise Random Acts of Green, with her team. Random Acts of Green is developing a new mobile app to encourage people to choose greener behaviours. A free community discussion on the new app will take place on May 10, 2018 at Lett Architects in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Random Acts of Green)

Jessica Correa (front), founder of social enterprise Random Acts of Green, with her team. Random Acts of Green is developing a new mobile app to encourage people to choose greener behaviours. A free community discussion on the new app will take place on May 10, 2018 at Lett Architects in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Random Acts of Green)

Jessica Correa’s social enterprise Random Acts of Green, which encourages and motivates people to modify their behaviour by making environmentally sustainable choices, is developing a new mobile app.

The new app will reward people for participating in “acts of green”. The app will provide people with different behaviour-based approaches that reduce greenhouse gases — including waste, transportation, energy, food, and water — and will quantify the amount of greenhouse gas reduced by each act.

Every act will be assigned a “green point” value and Random Acts of Green will partner with sponsors who will provide products and services that can be cashed in for accumulated green points.

Random Acts of Green is seeking feedback on their app development plans by hosting “Green Chats About the App”, a free community discussion on Thursday, May 10th at Lett Architects (138 Simcoe St., Peterborough). There will be three different sessions to choose from: 5 to 5:45 p.m., 6:15 to 7 p.m., and 7:30 to 8:15 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided.

To register for a session, visit www.eventbrite.ca/e/green-chats-about-the-random-acts-of-green-app-tickets-45562886821.

For more information about Random Acts of Green, visit raog.ca.

 

Seven youth entrepreneurs chosen for Innovation Cluster’s second annual Slingshot Program

These seven youth entrepreneurs were selected for the Innovation Cluster's second annual Slingshot Program. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)
These seven youth entrepreneurs were selected for the Innovation Cluster’s second annual Slingshot Program. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)

Seven entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 29 have been chosen for the Innovation Cluster’s second annual Slingshot Program.

The program will support the young entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses over the next four months. Each company will have a dedicated desk space within The Cube — the Innovation Cluseter’s business incubator — and will have access to all of its workshops, resources, innovation specialists, and tools.

The selected entrepreneurs and their businesses are:

  • Dylan Trepanier – Peterborough mobile eye exam clinic to reduce wait-time and be inclusive to customers.
  • Vismantas Kuznecovas – System to measure vibration of industrial machinery to provide maintenance solutions.
  • Lucas Graham – Building a mobile application to make networking events more efficient.
  • Alex Hopkins – Gambling platform for online video game currency.
  • Cole MacGregor – Reusable clothing that strives to promote gender-neutral fashion.
  • Rhode Thomas – Initiative to support Indigenous learners’ post secondary experience in Ontario.
  • Raman Vauchetski – Building a platform to connect employers with potential employees.

The seven entrepreneurs will have a chance to win $1,000 for their work by the end of the program.

“The Slingshot program showed such success from all participants last year, that over half of the startups applied to stay at the incubator past the end of the summer,” says Rosalea Terry, Marketing Manager and Senior Innovation Specialist at the Innovation Cluster. “This program shows to be a great opportunity for those who are just starting out in the business world and are learning how to adapt into being an entrepreneur.”

Last year’s winner of the Slingshot program was Alex Gastle of Vetterview. Vetterview is a platform that connects social media influencers and micro-influencers directly with brands looking to leverage influencer marketing through paid collaborations.

Gastle was able to push his business forward throughout the summer, and proved in his pitch Vetterview would have exponential growth in the future due to partnerships that span as far as London, England, thus winning $1,000.

“Working in The Cube was a lot better than working from home,” says Gastle. “I was motivated to come in every day and enjoyed hearing about the success other incubated startups were having.”

At the end of the program, all participants also must pitch their business and the progress they’ve made throughout Slingshot to a panel of judges from various business backgrounds, to determine who wins the $1,000 grand prize.

 

Construction begins on Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton Peterborough

Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett participated in the official groundbreaking ceremony of the new Hampton Inn and Suites six-storey hotel to be built beside Shorelines Casino Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of the office of Mayor Bennett)
Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett participated in the official groundbreaking ceremony of the new Hampton Inn and Suites six-storey hotel to be built beside Shorelines Casino Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of the office of Mayor Bennett)

Last Thursday (May 3), Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett took part in the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton Peterborough, being built at 1400 Crawford Dr. in Peterborough.

“We are very excited to bring this modern Hilton branded hotel to the City of Peterborough,” said Nashrin Struk with development company Roshan Holdings.

The six-story hotel, which is expected to open in May 2019, will include 100 guest suites, an indoor salt water pool, a fitness centre, laundry facilities, complimentary breakfast for guests, free wifi, a business centre, and 800 square feet of meeting facilities.

The new hotel is part of the casino development and will be adjacent to Shorelines Casino Peterborough, which is expected to open in late summer or early fall of this year.

 

FastStart E-Connect with Scott Adams of Birchbark Media on May 8

FastStart — a partnership between Trent University, Fleming College, and the Innovation Cluster — is hosting its next E-Connect seminar from 6 to 8 pm. on Tuesday, May 8th at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough).

Scott Adams, founder of video production and content marketing agency Birchbark Media, is the featured speaker.

The event is free, but seating is limited so you must register in advance at www.eventbrite.com/e/e-connect-may-the-entrepreneurship-be-with-you-tickets-45682831579.

 

Business Owners Sharing Solutions (BOSS) – Mental Health in the Workplace on May 9

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism’s next Business Owners Sharing Solutions (BOSS) seminar takes place from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9th at the Lakefield Legion (10 Nicholls St., Lakefield).

The session will focus on coping strategies and techniques to encourage mental wellness in your workplace, with panelists Jack Veitch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Dave Pogue of Team 55, and Ashley Challinor of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

The cost is $15 for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. Registration is requested.

 

Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Breakfast Network with Michael Gallant of Lett Architects on May 16

Michael Gallant, Design Principal and Architect of Lett Arhitects, will be speaking about the the downtown vibrancy visionary project at the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area's Breakfast Network on May 16, 2018. (Photo: Lett Architects)
Michael Gallant, Design Principal and Architect of Lett Arhitects, will be speaking about the the downtown vibrancy visionary project at the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area’s Breakfast Network on May 16, 2018. (Photo: Lett Architects)

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is hosting Michael Gallant as the guest speaker at its next Breakfast Network meeting on Wednesday, May 16th at at Empress Gardens (131 Charlotte St., Peterborough).

Gallant, a partner with Lett Architects and a member of the DBIA board, will be speaking about the downtown vibrancy visionary project.

Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. with Gallant speaking at 8 a.m.

Tickets are $5 at the door and everyone is welcome to attend.

 

Video interview techniques workshop with Birchbark Media on May 16

The Innovation Cluster’s next “Hands-ON” workshop will be on video interview techniques from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16th at the Innovation Cluster (270 George St. N., Peterborough).

Scott Adams, founder of video production and content marketing agency Birchbark Media, will explain how to properly stage and shoot an interview. Topics covered will include lighting, backdrops, camera techniques, framing and composition, and audio setups.

Participants are welcome to bring their cameras but Adams will be providing all necessary gear.

The event is free, but seating is limited. Advance registration is required at www.eventbrite.com/e/hands-on-video-interview-techniques-with-birchbark-media-tickets-45801656989.

 

Peterborough-Kawartha all-candidates meeting on housing and small business on May 16

Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal, PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green Party candidate Gianne Broughton are vying to become the next Peterborough-Kawartha MPP in the June 7, 2018 Ontario election.
Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal, PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green Party candidate Gianne Broughton are vying to become the next Peterborough-Kawartha MPP in the June 7, 2018 Ontario election.

Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of Realtors (PKAR) and the Peterborough & The Kawarthas Home Builders Association are hosting a meeting of Peterborough-Kawartha candidates for the upcoming Ontario election.

The meeting takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16th at the Peterborough Lions Community Centre (347 Burnham St. Peterborough).

Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal along with PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green Party candidate Gianne Broughton will present their views on housing and home ownership as well as their support of small business.

The panel discussion wil be moderated by 2018 PKAR president Kristi Doyle.

The event is free, and doors open at 6:30 p.m.

As part of the 2015 electoral redistribution, the Peterborough provincial electoral district was renamed Peterborough-Kawartha. The new district no longer includes the Townships of Otonabee-South Monaghan and Asphodel-Norwood and the Hiawatha First Nation (all which are now part of the new Northumberland-Peterborough South riding), but now includes the townships of Trent Lakes and North Kawartha.

 

Peterborough-Kawartha all-candidates debate on business issues on May 17

The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is also hosting an a meeting of Peterborough-Kawartha candidates from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 17th at the Holiday Inn Peterborough Waterfront (150 George St. N., Peterborough).

Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal, PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green Party candidate Gianne Broughton will all be attending.

The debate will focus on issues affecting the business community.

Send any questions to Sandra Dueck at the Chamber at sandra@peterboroughchamber.ca.

 

Peterborough-Kawartha all-candidates meeting on May 23

The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is also hosting a mmeeting of Peterborough-Kawartha candidates for the upcoming Ontario election from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 23rd at the Lakefield Legion (10 Nicholls St., Lakefield0.

Liberal incumbent Jeff Leal, PC candidate Dave Smith, NDP candidate Sean Conway, and Green Party candidate Gianne Broughton will all be attending.

The meeting will feature a question-and-answer session moderated by David Goyette.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and everyone is welcome to attend.

 

Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner on May 24

The Junior Achievement Peterborough, Lakefield, Muskoka 2018 Business Hall of Fame inductees: Robert Gauvreau, Monika Carmichael, Carl Oake, Sally Harding, Alf and June Curtis, and Paul Bennett (not present: Paschal McCloskey). Two posthumous inductees were also announced: John A. McColl and James H. Turner, and John James (Jack) Stewart. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
The Junior Achievement Peterborough, Lakefield, Muskoka 2018 Business Hall of Fame inductees: Robert Gauvreau, Monika Carmichael, Carl Oake, Sally Harding, Alf and June Curtis, and Paul Bennett (not present: Paschal McCloskey). Two posthumous inductees were also announced: John A. McColl and James H. Turner, and John James (Jack) Stewart. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

Hosted by Junior Achievement of Peterborough, Lakeland, Muskoka, the 2018 Business Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thusday, May 24th at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough).

The event honours people whose exemplary accomplishments of vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence have strengthened the local economy and community. Eleven people will be inducted this year: Sally Harding, Monika Carmichael, Alf and June Curtis, Paul Bennett, Carl Oake, Robert Gauvreau, Paschal McCloskey, and (posthumously) John A. McColl and James H. Turner and JJ (Jack) Stewart.

The event also features a culinary showcase where guests can sample food from different vendors as they mingle with the local business community.

The Pin will serve meringue nests with lemon curd and fresh berries. BE Catering will serve mini local organic shawarma with lemony hummus (vegan alternative is chickpea and mint fritter), lightly pickled vegetables and local sprouts, on their handmade grilled pita triangles. La Mesita Restaurante will serve Cochinita Pibil (Mayan Pulled Pork). Coffee will be courtesy of Amuse Coffee Co., who will serve organic fair trade brewed coffee (including decaf) and premium loose tea. Curry Village will be providing a cauliflower dish as well as an onion patty. For vegan guests, Fresh Dreams will server lentil stew.

Other particpating food and beverage vendors include The Imperial Tandoor, Little Sweets, Sweet Spirits, and Publican House Brewery.

Tickets for the ceremony and dinner are $100 per person, available now at www.eventbrite.ca/e/2018-ja-business-hall-of-fame-induction-ceremony-tickets-42952720744.

 

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas hosts its annual general meeting on May 31

The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas is hosting its annual general meeting from 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 31st at VentureNorth (270 George St. N., Peterborough).

Beginning at 2 p.m., the public can tour The Cube, the Innovation Cluster’s 10,000-square-foot business incubator, and meet some of the region’s most promising start-ups.

The annual general meeting, which is open to the public, takes place at 3 p.m. and will include highlights from 2017.

The event is free to attend, but registration is requested at www.eventbrite.com/e/the-innovation-cluster-annual-general-meeting-tickets-45475696031.

 

Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Annual General Meeting on June 27

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is hosting its annual general meeting on Wednesday, June 27th in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough).

Networking starts at 5:30 p.m. with business at 6 p.m. The meeting will include updates on what’s happening in downtown Peterborough, as well as a general election of the board.

Everyone is welcome to attend, although only DBIA members can vote.

For more information on joining the board, contact Joel Wiebe at the DBIA at 705-748-4774 or joelwiebe@peterboroughbia.com.

 

Kawarthas Northumberland annual tourism partner meeting on June 20

Todd Lucier, co-founder of Northern Edge Algonquin Retreat Centre, a retreat designer and IGNITE facilitator will be the guest speaker at the Kawarthas Northumberland annual tourism partner meeting. (Photo: Northern Edge Algonquin Retreat Centre)

Todd Lucier, co-founder of Northern Edge Algonquin Retreat Centre, a retreat designer and IGNITE facilitator will be the guest speaker at the Kawarthas Northumberland annual tourism partner meeting. (Photo: Northern Edge Algonquin Retreat Centre)

RTO8’s Kawarthas Northumberland is inviting tourism operators from within the Kawarthas Northumberland region (City of Kawartha Lakes, City and County of Peterborough, and Northumberland County) to its annual partners meeting (annual general meeting) from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 20th at Iron Horse Ranch (804 Ontario 7A RR1, Bethany).

The meeting will provide tourism operators with the opportunity to meet Kawarthas Northumberland board members and staff, along with representatives and advisors from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and to network with other tourism operators.

The guest speaker at the session will be Todd Lucier, co-founder of Northern Edge Algonquin Retreat Centre, a retreat designer and IGNITE facilitator. Lucier will speak on how tourism operators can leverage their own resources to build new and exciting visitor experiences, with an appreciation for the importance of community collaboration.

The event is free, but advance registration is required by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 8th. Register at Eventbrite.

Watch this dramatic helicopter rescue of a couple stranded on an island

By kawarthaNOW -
On May 6, 2018, 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron from CFB Trenton rescued two people stranded on an island in Crowe River south of Cordova Lake near Havelock, Ontario. (Photo: 8 Wing Trenton / 424 Squadron)

A Toronto-area couple was dramatically rescued by helicopter on Sunday (May 6) after they became stranded on a small island south in Crowe River south of Cordova Lake, about 18 kilometres north of Havelock.

The man and woman, both in their 30s, had set out on a canoe trip on Crowe River on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. Their canoe was swamped by turbulent water and they swam to a nearby island. While the couple had life jackets in their canoe, they were not wearing them.

On Sunday morning, family members noticed they had not returned and later found their canoe and life jackets near Scott’s Dam (a series of stepped waterfalls) in Crowe River off of Fire Route 18.

A person who noticed the couple on the island contacted emergency services. Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), paramedics, and local fire services arrived at the scene.

VIDEO: 424 Squadron Transport and Rescue – Cordova Lake May 6, 2018

However, due to the fast-moving water surrounding the island, they were unable to rescue the couple and called in 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron from CFB Trenton, who flew to the area in a CH-146 Griffon helicopter.

Despite strong and gusty winds in a heavily forested area, a member of the search and rescue crew descended around 200 feet (61 metres) twice to lift the man and woman to safety — documenting the rescue in the video above.

The helicopter then flew the rescued couple to a nearby field where emergency services were waiting.

The helicopter flew the rescued couple to a nearby field where emergency services were waiting. (Photo: 8 Wing Trenton / 424 Squadron)
The helicopter flew the rescued couple to a nearby field where emergency services were waiting. (Photo: 8 Wing Trenton / 424 Squadron)

While paramedics took the couple to hospital for assessment as a precaution, they were in good condition, having been able to make a shelter and build a fire on the island where they had spent the night.

Peterborough County OPP are reminding boaters to always wear their life jackets when out on the water and also to inform family or friends of their destination and expected return time.

The location of the rescue operation, on the Crowe River just south of Cordova Lake. (Map: Google)
The location of the rescue operation, on the Crowe River just south of Cordova Lake. (Map: Google)

The original version of this story has been updated to show the location of the rescue operation and to clarify the rescue happened in Crowe River.

Iconic Moondance sign will have a new home at Pappas Billiards

By kawarthaNOW -
The sign at the now-closed Moondance at 425 George Street North being taken home. It will be displayed in Pappas Billiards at 407 George Street North. (Photo: Moondance Music)

A little piece of Peterborough history will have a new home.

The iconic sign from Moondance Music in downtown Peterborough will be moving just down the street to Pappas Billiards at 407 George Street North.

Moondance owner Mike Taveroff — who closed Canada’s oldest independent record store on April 28, 2018 after deciding to retire — tweeted a photo of the sign being removed from the storefront at 425 George Street North:

(In the photo, that’s the original Moondance sign behind the one being taken down.)

This isn’t the first time an iconic business sign has found a new home in downtown Peterborough.

The neon sign from Hi Tops restaurant, which closed in late 2012, was rescued by Bill Kimball. In March 2013, Kimball agreed to have the sign placed inside The Spill, directly across the street from the former restaurant.

When The Spill closed permanently in October 2017, the sign was moved to Hot Belly Mama’s restaurant, where it remains today.

Moondance owner Mike Taveroff closed Moondance on April 28, 2018 after 46 years of operation when he decided to retire at the age of 68. (Photo; Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
Moondance owner Mike Taveroff closed Moondance on April 28, 2018 after 46 years of operation when he decided to retire at the age of 68. (Photo; Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

Full day of fun offered at ‘Celebrate Havelock’ on May 12

By Barb Shaw -
Showcasing businesses, clubs, and organizations in Havelock-Belmont-Methuen, Celebrate Havelock returns for its 11th year at the Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Community Centre all day on Saturday, May 12, 2018. (Photo courtesy Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen)

Celebrate Havelock is making Mother’s Day easier for the whole family, with the annual event returning on Saturday, May 12th.

With more than 60 vendors, live music, kids’ activities and over $7,000 in prizes waiting to be won, this shop-local event is something your whole family can enjoy.

Now in its 11th year, the event takes a team of volunteers months to plan and organize.

The train logo of "Celebrate Havelock" recognizes the history of Havelock, an important freight depot from the 1880s to the 1960s. The railway is now run by Canadian Pacific as Kawartha Lakes Railway and its activity today consists of transporting nepheline syenite and crushed basalt rock from two mines north of Havelock operated by Unimin.
The train logo of “Celebrate Havelock” recognizes the history of Havelock, an important freight depot from the 1880s to the 1960s. The railway is now run by Canadian Pacific as Kawartha Lakes Railway and its activity today consists of transporting nepheline syenite and crushed basalt rock from two mines north of Havelock operated by Unimin.

But with a focus on businesses, clubs, and organizations in the Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen, the event is about more than shopping.

Brian Grattan is the Economic Development Officer for Havelock-Belmont-Methuen and Secretary of the Celebrate Havelock Committee. He says the full-day event just keeps growing.

“This is always a great day out,” Grattan says. “We’re hoping to catch the cottagers who are returning, and it’s a nice way to find out what’s happening in the community.”

Razberry the Clown (Jessica Jacobs) returns this year to entertain the kids with face-painting and balloons. (Photo courtesy of Jessica Jacobs)
Razberry the Clown (Jessica Jacobs) returns this year to entertain the kids with face-painting and balloons. (Photo courtesy of Jessica Jacobs)
Belmont Lake Brewery, Havelock's own microbrewery located by the shore of Belmont Lake, will be on site serving craft brew to adults at Celebrate Havelock. The brewery was opened in June 2016 by British expatriate Julie and Norrie Bearcroft. (Photo courtesy of Belmont Lake Brewery)
Belmont Lake Brewery, Havelock’s own microbrewery located by the shore of Belmont Lake, will be on site serving craft brew to adults at Celebrate Havelock. The brewery was opened in June 2016 by British expatriate Julie and Norrie Bearcroft. (Photo courtesy of Belmont Lake Brewery)

Grattan says that Razberry the Clown is returning thanks to the local Lion’s Club and, for the adults, the Belmont Lake Brewery will also be on site.

“Not everyone knows we have a craft brewery in the community,” Grattan says. “We’re happy to have them back for a second year.”

While shopping is certainly a focus for the day, there will also be live music running from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Eastlink Event Tent. For families, the Guardian Pharmacy is sponsoring a Bouncy Castle and the Ranch Restaurant is sponsoring a Petting Zoo.

The $3 admission — there’s no charge for children 12 and under — gets you entered for a long list of prizes with draws happening throughout the day.

With a Samsung tablet from and golf gear up for grabs, you can get an extra chance at prizes by bringing a non-perishable food item for the local food bank.

Door prizes include tickets to the Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival with Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy, donated by Country 105. (Photo courtesy of Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival)
Door prizes include tickets to the Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival with Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy, donated by Country 105. (Photo courtesy of Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival)
Unimin has donated the grand door prize, a 58-inch Panasonic smart television with a wireless Bose surround sound system valued at over $4,000.
Unimin has donated the grand door prize, a 58-inch Panasonic smart television with a wireless Bose surround sound system valued at over $4,000.

Grattan says the event sponsors this year have been incredibly generous, with prizes like tickets from Country 105 to the Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival with Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy, and there’s also a 58-inch Panasonic smart television with a Bose surround sound system from Unimin.

And while event attendees are welcome to stay as long as they like at Celebrate Havelock, you do not have to be on-site to win a prize, Grattan says.

“Come out and enjoy the day,” Grattan says. “It’s important to support our local businesses because they support our local sports teams and community events all year.”

Celebrate Havelock runs on Saturday, May 12th — the day before Mother’s Day — from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Community Centre at 39 George Street East in Havelock.

Bring Mom and the whole family for a great day of shopping, visiting, and making memories.

Celebrate Havelock 2018.
Celebrate Havelock 2018.

Extreme wind storm causes extensive damage

By kawarthaNOW -
The May 4, 2018 wind storm in southern Ontario caused significant damage including downed trees, damaged roofs, and broken or leaning hydro poles, including this one at Sherbrooke and Aylmer streets in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Wendy Gibson)

More than 150,000 people in southern Ontario — including thousands in the Kawarthas — experienced power outages as a result of the wind storm yesterday (May 4).

Two deaths in Hamilton and in Milton were also reported. A Hamilton man in his 50s was electrocuted after trying to clear downed hydro wires from a roadway. In Milton, a 28-year-old man died and an 18-year-old man experienced life-threatening injuries after a tree fell on them; the two worked for a tree servicing company that was clearing fallen branches from utility wires for Milton Hydro.

As a cold front moved through southern Ontario yesterday, Environment Canada recorded wind gusts up to 120 kilometres per hour. The strong winds caused significant damage including downed trees, damaged roofs, and broken or leaning hydro poles.

Municipal utility companies and Hydro One were kept extremely busy responding to reported power outages. Thousands of people remain without power while crews repair the damage.

Hydro One customers can check the status of outages at the Hydro One Storm Center website at www.hydroone.com/StormCenter3/.

Reported power outages to Hydro One as of 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018. (Map: Hydro One)
Reported power outages to Hydro One as of 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018. (Map: Hydro One)

One of the most serious incidents in Peterborough was near the intersection of Lansdowne St. and Monaghan Rd., when a large tree fell on hydro lines, taking out power to around 2,500 customers in Peterborough’s west end and backing up traffic.

The high winds caused trees to sway wildly …

resulting in many trees coming down …

I've been meaning to take this old tree down, but the wind just now did it for me. Just wish it didn't come down on the driveway! It was rotten to the core.

Posted by Robert Harris-Stoertz on Friday, May 4, 2018

Roofs were damaged …

and people living on local lakes reported high waves. The Gannon’s Narrows bridge and causeway in Ennismore wasn reduced to a single lane, after waves washed out one side of the road.

Stormy winds and double rainbow #pigeonlake by @andrea_mcclure #kawarthalakes #thekawarthas #onstorm

Posted by kawarthaNOW.com on Friday, May 4, 2018

The high winds caused the most damage, but there were also localized thunderstorms, some of which produced hail.

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