Dylan Trepanier of Alexander Optical and Cheryl Gould of Electric Juice Factory have won the 2019 Bears' Lair Entrepreneurial Competition, with each taking home a cash prize of $8,350. The final pitch event was held on April 30, 2019 at The Venue in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Bianca Nucaro / kawarthaNOW.com)
Dylan Trepanier of Alexander Optical and Cheryl Gould of Electric Juice Factory have won the 2019 Bears’ Lair Entrepreneurial Competition, with each taking home a cash prize of $8,350.
The two entrepreneurs came out on top after six finalist pitched their businesses to a panel of judges before a live audience on Tuesday night (April 30) at The Venue in downtown Peterborough.
Trepanier won in the Innovation category for his business Alexander Optical, which organizes pop-up clinics with eye care professionals on site to perform comprehensive eye exams, to find eye wear solutions, and to provide an option for people to finance their eye care.
Gould won in the Goods and Services category for Electric Juice Factory, the business she founded with Will Harvey. Based in Port Hope with a retail location in downtown Peterborough, Electric Juice Factory manufactures organic, raw, cold-pressed juices and superfood smoothies.
The four runners-up (Jeremy Brooks of AVROD, Hillary Flood and Pete Rellinger of PedalBoro, Jen Wight of Emily Mae’s Cookies & Sweets, and Husayn Dharshi of Transit One) each received a cash prize of $1,000. (Photo: Paula Kehoe)
The four runners-up — Husayn Dharshi of Transit One and Jeremy Brooks of AVROD in the Innovation category, and Jen Wight of Emily Mae’s Cookies & Sweets and Hillary Flood and Pete Rellinger of PedalBoro in the Goods and Services category — didn’t walk away empty handed. Each received a cash prize of $1,000.
The event also offered a People’s Choice Award to one of the six finalists, selected by popular vote by attendees. With the highest number of votes, Jen Wight of Emily Mae’s Cookies & Sweets won $200. In addition, the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough awarded Wight with a free 2019/2020 membership.
During the final pitch event, each of the six finalists presented five-minute pitches followed by a question and answer session by the panel of judges: Teresa Kruze (partner at skin care and wellness company Neora, and former broadcaster, TV producer, best-selling author, and community activist), Steve Reble, owner of natural food wrap company ETEE (Everything Touches Everything Else), and Brenda Hogan (senior investment manager at Ontario Capital Growth Corporation).
During the Bears’ Lair Entrepreneurial Competition final pitch event on April 30, 2019 at The Venue in downtown Peterborough, each of the six finalists presented five-minute pitches to the panel of judges, which were followed by a question-and-answer session. The judges were natural food wrap entrepreneur Steve Rebel, senior investment manager Brenda Hogan, and former broadcaster and author Teresa Kruze. (Photo: Paula Kehoe)>
Unlike previous years’ competitions, which featured a prize package including in-kind services, this year”s competition offered sizable cash-only prizes, all donated by sponsors of the 2019 competition.
“This year, we were very excited to be able to increase the cash prize thanks to the ongoing support of our community sponsors,” says Catia Skinner, chair of the 2019 Bears’ Lair steering committee. “The calibre of entrepreneurs entering this competition has been very impressive. The finalists did an incredible job with their pitches in front of the judges this evening, and it showed that they came prepared.”
The presenting sponsors for this year’s competition were Community Futures Peterborough, Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development, Innovation Cluster, Peterborough Angels, and Mega Experience. Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce was the gold sponsor, with silvers sponsors including Park Place Financial, Cody & James Chartered Professional Accountants, PartTime CFO Services, and Brainstation, and bronze sponsors Sugar Me Right, Inclusive Advisory, Chalk Therapy.
Media sponsors were kawarthaNOW, Country 105, and Energy 99.7, with the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough as award sponsor, Prima IP as the runner-up sponsor, and Ashburnham Realty as the event sponsor. Other sponsors included The Venue (location sponsor), We Design Group (video profile sponsor), Workforce Development Board and Ricart (partner sponsors), and Revolutions Dance Studio (supporting sponsor).
A detail from Nicole Bauberger's 'Highway 7 between Ottawa and Peterborough' (2018, oil on panel) from her "Get There from Here" exhibit currently on display at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of the Art Gallery of Peterborough)
In May, the Art Gallery of Peterborough is showing two new exhibits accompanied by some fun workshops. Artspace hosts its annual 50/50 fundraiser, with a new exhibit by Tia Cavanagh coming later in May. Ah! Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth is presenting playful cat sculptures by Blandford Gates, and Leanne Baird’s ‘Up Came The Sun’ is showing at the Colborne Street Gallery in Fenelon Falls.
The Peterborough Youth Arts Festival is at PACE in early May, and the annual “Get your Art On” exhibit is happening over the Victoria Day weekend. Spring shows and sales include the Willow Spring Artisan Show and Market in Douro and the Artsanity Show and Sale in Lakefield on the first two weekends in May. Tickets are now available for the second annual Peterborough Arts Awards, which will be presented at the Mayor’s Luncheon for The Arts on May 24th.
And don’t forget the popular First Friday art crawl is coming up on May 3rd, featuring fun workshops and many different open studios and art exhibits in downtown Peterborough.
Nicole Bauberger’s ‘Get There from Here’ exhibit, workshop, and Family Sunday at the Art Gallery of Peterborough
A detail from Nicole Bauberger’s ‘Highway 115 south of Peterborough (from gas station parking lot)’ (2018, oil on panel) from her “Get There from Here” exhibit currently on display at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of the Art Gallery of Peterborough)
‘Get There From Here’ represents an ongoing painting project. Since 2008, Nicole Bauberger has been traversing the roads of Canada, stopping at intervals to paint the landscape of the open road. This series represents routes of travel across the country, from Newfoundland to Vancouver and as far as the Northwest Territories.
In conjunction with this exhibition, Nicole will be conducting a painting workshop on Saturday, May 4th, focusing on the ‘plein air’ method of painting outside on location. Visit agp.on.ca/programs/plein-air-painting-with-nicole-bauberger/ to register or call the Art Gallery at 705-743-9179.
There will also be a special Family Sunday, “Painting the Road with artist Nicole Bauberger”, on Sunday, May 5th. Nicole will be set up outside the gallery with a tent and a well-plasticked vehicle interior. Sit inside the vehicle and imagine what it would be like to use it as a mobile painting studio, as you create your very own painting of the road with tempera paint on matte board. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 p.m. (first come, first served). There will also be other fun activities set up in the gallery and the studio.
Since 2008, Nicole Bauberger has been traversing the roads of Canada, stopping at intervals to paint the landscape of the open road. She will be conducting a painting workshop at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on Saturday, May 4th, focusing on the ‘plein air’ method of painting outside on location. (Photo courtesy of the artist)
Finally, on Tuesday, May 7th from 6:30 to 8 p.m., join the artist for ‘Road Stories with Nicole Bauberger’ in the centre court at Lansdowne Place mall (645 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough). There will be a meet and greet with Nicole at 6:30 p.m. featuring live music and food samples. Then, at 7 p.m., Nicole will give a 40-minute slide show presentation set around some of her favourite stories from the road, including a performance on ukulele of the waltz she wrote for her dog Itsy who accompanied her for many of the painting journeys. This is a free event open to all.
‘Get There From Here’ is on display until Sunday, June 2nd.
The Art Gallery of Peterborough is located at 250 Crescent Street in downtown Peterborough and is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. It offers free admission, barrier-free access, and a gallery shop. Parking is available in the Del Crary lot. For more information, call 705-743-9179 or visit agp.on.ca.
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‘Grand Theft Terra Firma’ by David Campion and Sandra Shields currently on display at the Art Gallery of Peterborough
‘Survey Party’ (2016, inkjet print on vinyl, metal electrical conduit, aluminum) by David Campion & Sandra Shields, part of their “Grand Theft Terra Firma” exhibit currently on display at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of the Art Gallery of Peterborough)
‘Grand Theft Terra Firma’ deals with the serious subject of injustice as experienced in S’olh Temexw, otherwise known as BC’s Fraser Valley, in a somewhat light-hearted way. Using fictional characters alongside accurate historical facts, David Campion and Sandra Shields weave a story depicting the colonization of Canada as an act of greedy thievery masterminded by criminals in London.
This story stands in contrast to the story of nation-building we are regularly told, which is known to leave out some of the less-pleasant details involved in the process. The story Campion and Shields tell encourages viewers to consider the impact these historical events have had, as well brings facts that may not be widely known to light. This kind of work opens up space for better understanding and communication between groups that have historically been divided in our society and moves us closer to understanding and reconciliation.
Curated by Laura Schneider and produced and circulated by The Reach Gallery in Abbotsford, the exhibit will be displayed until Sunday, June 23rd.
The Art Gallery of Peterborough is located at 250 Crescent Street in downtown Peterborough and is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. It offers free admission, barrier-free access, and a gallery shop. Parking is available in the Del Crary lot. For more information, call 705-743-9179 or visit agp.on.ca.
Colborne Street Gallery in Fenelon Falls presents ‘Up Came the Sun’ by Leanne Baird opening May 2nd
‘Red Leaves II’ (2018, 60×40″, acrylic on canvas) by Leanne Baird. (Photo courtesy of Colborne Street Gallery)
This new series of colourful and visually interesting landscapes Leanne Baird expresses the beauty of quiet moments of contemplation. Nature and the play of light in natural landscapes are constant sources of inspiration for Leanne.
Come out and meet the artist at the opening reception on Thursday, May 2nd at 6 p.m. The exhibit will be on display until Sunday, May 26th.
Colborne Street Gallery is located at 44 Colborne Street in Fenelon Falls. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information about the space or upcoming exhibits, visit colbornegallery.ca, email info@colbornegallery.ca, or call 705-887-0997.
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Artspace 50/50 Art Draw, Fire Sale, and Silent Auction in Peterborough on May 4th
Get your tickets! Artspace’s Annual 50/50 fundraiser and party is around the corner, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4th.
This fun night of music, door prizes, food and drink, and of course the exciting Art Draw, Fire Sale, and Silent Auction will not disappoint.
For the Art Draw, you buy a ticket and wait for your ticket number to called at random, and then select a piece of art from the wall. Everyone with a draw ticket goes home with a piece of art.
Artspace is located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough and offers barrier-free access (to all but Gallery 2) and free admission during regular open hours: Tuesday to Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Parking is available in the municipal lot on Hunter Street between Aylmer and George. For more information, call 705-748-3883 or visit artspace-arc.org.
The Willow Spring Artisan Show and Sale in Douro on May 5th
The annual Willow Spring Artisan Show & Market. (Photo: Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism)
The Willow Spring Artisan Show & Market, a carefully curated annual show taking place from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 5th, features natural and herbal products, jewellery, fibre arts, pottery, glasswork and visual art.
With more than 20 artisans from the region, this spring market is a great opportunity to find gifts for Mother’s Day and for a spring drive out to Douro. All proceeds from the $2 door fee goes towards Cystic Fibrosis Canada.
The Willow Spring Artisan Show & Market takes place at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall (299 County Rd. 8, Douro). For more information, visit www.facebook.com/willowspringartisans/.
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Second annual Peterborough Youth Arts Festival on May 5th
An annual celebration of young artists in the community, the Peterborough Youth Arts Festival was created in 2018 by Lydia Etherington and continues in 2019 in partnership with Arts for Awareness, a collective of experienced local artists who help encourage and nurture emerging artists in the city.
The 2019 festival, which takes place on Sunday, May 5th at Peterborough Alternative and Community Education (PACE), features work by more than 40 young artists, with visual art ranging from photography to painting and live performances including solo singers, two rock bands, a jazz ensemble, and a drumming group.
PACE is located at the Peterborough Collegiate Vocational School (210 McDonnel St, Peterborough). Doors open at 1 p.m. and the live performances begin in the auditorium at 2 p.m. Admission is $10 or pay what you can.
Publication launch of ‘La Ràbida, Soul of Conquest: an Anishinaabe encounter’ at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on May 11th
‘La Doncella, the maiden Mount Llullaillaco, Argentina, 2016’ by Bonnie Devine. (Photo courtesy of the Art Gallery of Peterborough)
La Ràbida, Soul of Conquest: an Anishinaabe encounter documents Bonnie Devine’s exhibition of the same name (which was on display at the Art Gallery of Peterborough in 2016-17) in full colour and includes essays by Bonnie Devine, Deb O’Rourke, John G. Hampton and Davis DeLeary.
Join a celebration of the launch of the publication at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 11th at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. This is a free event open to all.
The Art Gallery of Peterborough is located at 250 Crescent Street in downtown Peterborough and is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. It offers free admission, barrier-free access, and a gallery shop. Parking is available in the Del Crary lot. For more information, call 705-743-9179 or visit agp.on.ca.
Artisanity Show and Sale in Lakefield on May 11th and 12th
If you are in the Lakefield area on Mother’s Day weekend, then stop in at the Artisanity Show and Sale and perhaps find a few treasures.
There will be gourd art, bird houses, baby blankets, stuffed animals, garden sculptures, kitchenware and much more — even kaleidescopes!
Presented by Artisans Centre Peterborough, the show and sale will be happening on both Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Marshland Centre (4 Hague blvd, Lakefield).
Admission is a $2 donation to support the Artisans Centre’s programs.
Artspace presents Tia Cavanagh’s ‘jibwaa aawang / miiniwaa nongwa / baamaa pii’ opening May 24th
Tia Cavanagh’s ‘jibwaa aawang / miiniwaa nongwa / baamaa pii’ exhibit runs at Artspace until July 13, 2019. (Photo courtesy of Artspace)
Opening on Friday, May 24th at 7 p.m., Tia Cavanagh’s ‘jibwaa aawang / miiniwaa nongwa / baamaa pii’ is a multidisciplinary show explores process and materials through Indigenous research methodologies.
As an Indigenous woman, Tia brings her own perspective to the representation and exploration of the world though her artistic practice.
Stop in, meet the artist and enjoy some light refreshments during the opening reception. The exhibit will be on display until Saturday, July 13th.
Artspace is located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough and offers barrier-free access (to all but Gallery 2) and free admission during regular open hours: Tuesday to Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Parking is available in the municipal lot on Hunter Street between Aylmer and George. For more information, call 705-748-3883 or visit artspace-arc.org.
Ah! Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth presents ‘Cats: The fantasy world of Blandford Gates’ opening May 24th
One of Blandford Gates’ whimsical metal cat sculptures on display at Ah! Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth. (Photo: Gary Mulcahey)
Come and see this fun new exhibit at Ah! Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth featuring the latest series of sculptures by Blandford Gates, a local resident who assembles playful cat metal sculptures using recycled tools, machine parts, plumbing, and hardware.
The opening reception is on Saturday, May 4th from 7 to 9 p.m. and will feature some of his big cat sculptures outdoors, as well as a family-oriented interactive experience involving photographs and cat ears.
Curated by Sheree Rasmussen, the exhibit continues on weekends until Sunday, June 16th.
Ah! Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth is located at 35 Church Street in downtown Warkworth. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For more information, visit ahcentre.ca.
Peterborough Arts Awards at Mayor’s Luncheon for The Arts on May 24th
The Electric City Culture Council will be presenting the second annual Peterborough Arts Awards on Friday, May 24th at the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts.
Six awards of $2,000 each will be presented for outstanding achievement in the arts in Peterborough, as well as two Bierk Art Fund bursaries (from the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, established to honour the memory and celebrate the life of Peterborough resident Liz Bierk, wife of renowned artist David Bierk).
The awards are for Outstanding Emerging Artist (sponsored by Tim and Shelley Barrie of Merit II Realty Limited), Outstanding Mid-Career Artist (sponsored by Betty and Bill Morris), Outstanding Senior Artist (sponsored by Paul Hickey of Outpost379), Outstanding Achievement by an Indigenous Artist (sponsored by LLF Lawyers), Arts Champion (sponsored by Paul Bennett/Ashburnham Realty), and Arts Catalyst (sponsored by Kate and Alex Ramsay).
Award-winning author Charlie Foran is the guest speaker at the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts. (Photo: James Lahey)
The guest speaker is Charlie Foran, author of Mordecai: The Life & Times, which in 2011 won both the Governor General’s Literary Award for nonfiction and the Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Nonfiction. There will also be performances by Dreda Blow, Justin Millon, Curtis Driedger, and more.
The luncheon, with a three-course meal provided by BE Catering, takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the McDonnel St. Activity Centre (577 McDonnel St., Peterborough). Tickets are $40, available at eventbrite.ca.
“Get Your Art On” at The Mount in Peterborough on the Victoria Day long weekend
“Get Your Art On” takes place from May 17 to 20, 2019 at The Mount in Peterborough. (Poster: Hartley Stephenson)
The 4th annual “Get Your Art On” exhibit takes place on the Victoria Day weekend (May 17 to 20) in the beautiful Austin Doran Hall (the former chapel) at The Mount Community Centre in Peterborough.
Drop in on the opening reception at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 17th for light refreshments and meet other arts enthusiasts and artists from the community.
If you would like to participate, the call for artists is still open. Drop off will be between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 16th. Art pick up and an open house takes place all day on Monday, May 20th (Victoria Day).
The Mount Community Centre is located at 1545 Monaghan Road in Peterborough.
DeNureTours offers "Your Way" vacation opportunities where guests have the freedom of independent travel, while avoiding the logistical hassles of managing a trip. DeNureTours of Lindsay is offering three "Your Way" itineraries, which all run in the same style, to New York (six days), Nashville (pictured, six days), and Chicago (five days). (Supplied photo)
If you want to enjoy the freedom of independent travel, but let someone else handle all the transportation and hotel arrangements, DeNureTours offers vacation opportunities that delivers the best of both worlds — in New York, Nashville and Chicago.
Packaged as a “Your Way” vacation, DeNureTours has handcrafted an itinerary with motorcoach transportation, accommodation in centrally located hotels, some meals, and a savvy tour director to help advise you along the way.
However, this is no cookie-cutter experience. Unlike DeNure’s fully guided tours, on a Your Way tour you’re free to spend your sightseeing time however you like. Maybe you want to catch a game, go on an outdoor adventure, enjoy culinary delights, or go shopping.
“This is what makes the Your Way program so appealing. It can be as structured or as open ended as you want it to be,” says Howard Herman, product development manager at DeNureTours for 30 years and responsible for designing the agency’s tours in North America.
“We give travellers the option to design their vacation with some guidance from DeNureTours.”
Your tour, your way. Choose your adventure!
Follow the links for more details:
New York – 6 Days (departing August 20 and October 26, 2019)
Nashville – 6 Days (departing July 6, September 11 and October 23, 2019)
Chicago– 5 Days (departing July 24, August 14 and September 25, 2019)
To start planning your next vacation, visit denuretours.com or call 1-866-967-9909 (toll free).
Upon arrival in a city, DeNure’s tour director and a local guide will give you an orientation tour on their luxury motorcoach. You’ll learn how to use the public transportation, understand the general layout of the city in relation to its most famous monuments, get a brief refresher course on the city’s history, and tips and tricks to getting the best service while dining.
Then you’re free to do your own thing, mapping out the day to include what’s important to you. DeNure’s tour director will be at your disposal for advice and assistance, should you need it-whether it’s getting tickets to a show or directions on how to take the subway, explains Herman.
“New York and Chicago can be very intimidating cities to visit if you’ve never been there before,” he says. “This is where DeNure is very helpful. It’s comforting to have somebody with our experience who can help you get from point A to point B.”
If you’ve never visited them before, New York (pictured here) and Chicago can be an intimidating travel experience. “This is where DeNure is very helpful,” says Howard Herman of DeNureTours. “It’s comforting to have somebody with our experience who can help you get from point A to point B.” (Supplied photo)
The Your Way program can appeal to a diverse mix of travellers: the intrepid and energetic types who want more than a guided tour, families who want to focus on kid-friendly activities, the mature or laid-back travellers who value the decidedly slower and more intimate pace, and the independent types who simply want to explore away from a group.
Herman says that travellers are also getting more confident both in choosing their destination and using information technology.
“We’re going through a transition where in the past our guests really liked being guided through absolutely everything they did. Today, our guests seem much more independent. The 65-year-old of today is much different than the 65-year-old of 15 or 20 years ago. People are more independent, internet savvy, and are doing their research before they go on tour. Their interests are much more varied than what they used to be in the past because they have had that ability to do that research.”
DeNureTours’ mission is to help you see the world your way, revealing the finest sights and experiences it has to offer. Whether you’re after adventure, culture or just want to kick back and relax, DeNure’s representatives get you to the heart of your journey and deliver truly authentic experiences.
The tour agency also handles all of the logistics so you can fully enjoy your holiday and avoid the hassles of managing a trip. You select the destination and choose which departure date suits your schedule, and DeNure packages everything up for you to take the stress away of planning the details, including the transportation and accommodation.
DeNureTours is currently offering three “Your Way” itineraries, which all run in the same style, to New York (six days), Nashville (six days), and Chicago (five days). Here are some highlights of what to anticipate on each visit.
New York City
One of the few tour companies to do this, DeNureTours bring their guests to New York City by water. Guests start off in New Jersey and take the ferry in to Liberty and Ellis Islands where they will catch their first glimpse of New York City. Guests can spend the entire day exploring the Statue of Liberty (pictured here) and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. (Supplied photo)
One of the few tour companies to do this, DeNureTours bring their guests to New York City by water.
“Guests start off in New Jersey and take the ferry in to Liberty and Ellis Islands where they will catch their first glimpse of New York City,” says Herman.
Spend the entire day exploring the Statue of Liberty (a symbol of freedom since 1886) and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where an astounding 12 million immigrants passed through between 1892 and 1954.
“Most tour companies will take guests straight into New York City and might do a day on the water where they circle the Statue of Liberty, but DeNure does this on the way in. Guests get to experience this on their own. Again, they have the freedom, but they also have a structured itinerary where they get on a ferry, enjoy the sights and then head to Battery Park to meet up with their group.”
DeNure guests stay at the Marriott Marquis, set in the heart of Times Square at West 46th and Broadway. The sophisticated four-star hotel soars above Times Square, Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall.
Take a three-hour guided tour of New York City to get your bearings, then the rest of New York is yours to explore. One of the top attractions in New York is the poignant 9/11 Memorial Museum, a moving tribute to the victims of the terrorist attack and those who risked their lives to save others. (Photo: Joe Woolhead)
Enjoy a three-hour guided tour of New York City to get your bearings, then the rest of New York is yours to explore. You can try a Broadway show or visit the poignant 9/11 Memorial Museum (a moving tribute to the victims of the terrorist attack and those who risked their lives to save others.)
The One World Observatory (the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex) is also a big highlight, says Herman, and one he highly recommends over the other historic landmarks in New York.
“Personally, I would rather go to the One World Observatory then 30 Rockefeller Center or the Empire State Building. It not only allows you to go deeper into the city’s history, but the experience and views are better. You can package a bunch of activities together while you’re touring there. People may not think of that when they visit New York. They typically only think of visiting 30 Rock or the Empire State Building. They don’t realize that you can get the same, but better experience someplace else.”
If guests are interested in touring the 9/11 Memorial, One World Observatory, Rockefeller Center, or Central Park, along with many others within the city, Herman says DeNure can help with the transportation to get them there and pick them up after they take a few hours to explore on their own.
Nashville
Nashville is known as a recording juggernaut, with the country’s most famous stage (the Grand Ole Opry House) and the beating heart of country music. DeNure’s introductory tour to Nashville offers a list of optional activities that you can choose from depending on your interests, like the General Jackson, a showboat based on the Cumberland River in Nashville (pictured here). (Supplied photo)
Nashville is known as a recording juggernaut, with the country’s most famous stage (the Grand Ole Opry House) and the beating heart of country music.
This tour is ideal for those who want choices. DeNure’s introductory tour to Nashville offers a list of optional activities that you can choose from depending on your interests. You can also create your own adventure during your free time.
Christened “Music City, U.S.A.”, Nashville is a mecca for aspiring stars. The atmosphere is a mix of traditional southern hospitality and new-age creativity. You can take in the lights of Lower Broadway and stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, an extraordinary nine-acre garden village, and one of the largest hotels in the world.
“The Opryland Resort is a destination in itself,” says Herman. It boasts a jungle-like atrium, on-site shops, many restaurants and eateries, an 18-hole golf course and a new four-acre water park.
While the hotel is about a 10-mile drive from downtown Nashville, DeNure provides the shuttle service to attractions in the city.
You can hit the Nashville hotspots: the legendary Ryman Auditorium (the Mother Church of country music since 1892) and the Grand Ole Opry House (Tennessee’s quintessential country music venue, featuring today’s biggest country performers.)
The Country Music Hall of Fame is the memorabilia granddaddy of country music. A sacred monument tracing country’s roots to present day, The Hall of Fame recently underwent a $100 million expansion and celebrated its 50th anniversary.
“The Country Music Hall of Fame have their standard exhibits that never change, but they are always adding and rotating exhibits so every time you go there, you see something different,” says Herman.
Nashville’s “Honky Tonk Highway”, located on lower Broadway in downtown Nashville, is a row of honky tonks featuring free live music every day and evening. It includes the world-famous Tootsies Orchid Lounge, where musicians including Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, Kris Kristofferson, Billy Ray Cyrus, Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings, Roger Miller, and Taylor Swift have performed. (Supplied photo)
Located within a four-block radius of one another, the Johnny Cash Museum celebrates the life of The Man in Black, the archetypal godfather of outlaw country. The Patsy Cline Museum is a tribute to the legendary songstress who put her stamp on the country music industry and left it tragically at the age of 30.
“The Johnny Cash Museum and the Patsy Cline Museum are extremely well done. Even though they are small, manageable self-guided tours, you do get the feeling that you have experienced everything about those artists,” says Herman.
One of the largest showboats ever built, the General Jackson is Old South grandeur. A four-hour paddle-wheel down the Cumberland River shows off Nashville’s skyline with dinner and live entertainment.
Herman is quick to point out that the Nashville hospitality is top notch.
“The people in Nashville are so friendly and welcoming of Canadians every time we go there.”
Chicago
Upon arrival in a city, like Chicago (pictured here), DeNure’s tour director and a local guide will give you an orientation tour on their luxury motorcoach. You’ll learn how to use the public transportation, understand the general layout of the city in relation to its most famous monuments, get a brief refresher course on the city’s history, and learn some tips and tricks to getting the best service while dining. (Supplied photo)
Stay in the heart of Chicago with accommodation in the Magnificent Mile, walking distance of all of the Windy City’s most famous attractions, making it easy to explore during your free time.
Experience Chicago’s highlights during a guided tour on your first day with DeNureTours. See Navy Pier, the Museum Campus, the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the Adler Planetarium.
“Cloud Gate”, a large public sculpture by Indian-born British artist Sir Anish Kapoor, is the centerpiece of AT&T Plaza at Millennium Park in the Loop community area of Chicago. Nicknamed The Bean because of its shape, the sculpture consists of 168 stainless steel plates welded together. With its highly polished exterior and no visible seams, the sculpture has been used as a backdrop in Hollywood films such as 2006’s “The Break-Up” and 2011’s “Source Code”. (Supplied photo)
In the Michigan Avenue District, enjoy the Magnificent Mile, a 13-block shopping and cultural hub that stretches from Oak Street to the Chicago River, and is home to fine shopping, millionaires’ mansions, remarkable architecture and fascinating museums.
Pay a visit to Millennium Park, the remarkable outdoor public space home to Lurie Garden, Cloud Gate (the “Bean”), and Pritzker Pavilion, a bandshell designed by Frank Gehry. Marvel at Chicago’s iconic skyline during a narrated cruise.
If you’re looking for a real thrill, the 360 Chicago Observation Deck (formally the John Hancock Observatory) promises just that. The building is the go-to destination for visitors who want to experience the best 360-degree panoramic views of the city and its historic lakefront.
The fearless can tackle Tilt, a hydraulically-tilted bay window that leans riders over Michigan Avenue from the 94th floor via an enclosed moving platform.
A memorable entertainment experience is Tommy Gun’s Garage, Chicago’s only Speakeasy Dinner Theatre, which is a fun way to relive the Roaring Twenties amid gangsters, flappers, and music.
If you’re ready for a Your Way adventure, book your trip with DeNureTours.
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This story was created in partnership with DeNureTours.
Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Peterborough's medical officer of health, has invited Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith to spend a day with her so he better understands what the work of public health and the medical officer of health entails. Smith has publicly accused her of fear mongering about the impacts of proposed changes to the public health system in an effort to protect her own job. (Photo: Peterborough Public Health)
Just a few weeks after learning the Government of Ontario is planning to cut public health spending by $200 million, Peterborough’s Medical Officer of Health has extended an olive branch to Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith in the hopes he’ll learn more about her work and the agency she heads.
“I did invite him to come and spend a day here with me, to shadow me and understand better what the work of public health and the medical officer of health entails,” says Dr. Rosana Salvaterra.
“I see our Member of Provincial Parliament as being another important influencer for healthy public policy. We depend on him to be thinking about the health and well being of our community. We need him to be a well-informed advocate and champion for our community.”
That invitation comes on the heels of MPP Smith, in a written statement, accusing Dr. Salvaterra of “fear mongering” in response to the province’s plan to reduce the number of Ontario public health agencies from 35 to 10, giving those 10 agencies much larger jurisdictions to cover.
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Dr. Salvaterra has said the move will lead to the disbanding of the local board of health and, with it, the position of medical officer of health. However, for both her and board of health chair Kathryn Wilson, the real frustration is born from what they allege has been a lack of consultation with public health care officials leading up to the decision to cut the budget.
“It was shocking to learn that such a profound change to the public health system in Ontario was being considered without any advance warning,” Wilson says.
Kathryn Wilson, a councillor with Hiawatha First Nation, is the current chair of the board of health for Peterborough Public Health. She says the entire board was “shocked” and “dismayed” that the Province of Ontario decided to change the public health system, which was built by municipalities in the early 20th century, without any prior consultation. Photo: Peterborough Public Health)
“The entire board (or health) was quite shocked, dismayed, upset. The ministry needs to consult with those who understand public health firsthand. In the past, neglecting public health has had consequences. There were public inquiries following SARS and the Walkerton water crisis and both found public health is usually taken for granted until a crisis occurs.”
Dr. Salvaterra, who has served as medical officer of health since 2008, fully concurs but holds out hope that there remains an opportunity to work with the provincial government on its plan to restructure public health care in the province.
“The hope is we can engage, in an authentic and transparent way, with the provincial government and its representatives in coming up with changes to the public health system that are going to benefit the communities we serve and maintain our very strong close connections with local government,” says Dr. Salvaterra.
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“In order to prevent hallway health care, and prevent people from becoming patients in the first place, we need to invest upstream. We need to ensure we have a strong and robust public health system and we need to do that together. Any changes must be done with the full engagement of local boards of health and the communities they serve.”
That said, Dr. Salvaterra maintains the province’s plan, as she understands it, is deeply flawed.
“It’s certainly very clear to me that if you were to take 35 boards of health and amalgamate them into 10, it’s going to cost a lot of money. Amalgamations always do. Once the dust settles, it will be impossible to achieve $200 million worth of savings.
“What we are beginning to understand is this is going to be achieved by, first of all, downloading currently 100 per cent Ministry of Health-funded public health programs and services partially to municipalities. These will no longer be 100 per cent provincially funded but instead will be cost shared.”
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“And two, increasing the portion of the public health budget that is borne by municipalities and First Nations. That means offloading the cost onto municipalities and First Nations for whom their only source of revenue, in the case of municipalities, is property taxes. We know that our municipalities and First Nations have already cut their 2019 budgets for the year, so where this money is going to come from is of great concern to us.”
In addition to her attempt to engage MPP Smith on the matter, Dr. Salvaterra says Peterborough Mayor Diane Therrien, County Warden J. Murray Jones, and First Nations leaders are seeking a meeting with MPP Smith in a bid to learn “What does this actually mean? How bad is it?”
The 2019 board of health for Peterborough Public Health. Back row, left to right: City of Peterborough Councillor Don Vassiliadis, City of Peterborough Councillor Henry Clarke, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, provincial appointee Catherine Praamsma, Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan Deputy Mayor Bonnie Clark, Township of Cavan Monaghan Deputy Mayor Matthew Graham, Township of Selwyn Mayor Andy Mitchell, provincial appointee Gregory Connolley, provincial appointee Andy Sharpe. Front row, left to right: City of Peterborough Councillor Kim Zippel, Hiawatha First Nation Councillor and board chair Kathryn Wilson, provincial appointee and vice-chair Kerri Davies, provincial appointee Michael Williams. (Photo: Peterborough Public Health)
In a public statement released last Thursday (April 25), Ms Wilson took MPP Smith to task for comments suggesting Dr. Salvaterra is simply looking to protect her job, noting she is a front-line public health advocate who works closely with municipal partners as well as takes the lead on numerous public health initiatives.
“Understanding how public health works in general, understanding what the medical officer of health does, understanding what programs are offered and what that means to our community … the comments by MPP Smith prove he did not use evidence to back his statements,” Wilson says.
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Dr. Salvaterra says heightened attention on the MPP Smith’s interpretation of her motives for fighting for public health care takes away from the real issue at hand.
“The issue here is protecting public health services and protecting the voice of our local boards of health, making sure boards of health are well connected to the communities that they serve,” she says.
“A 2017 review showed that for every dollar invested in public health programs, it creates a cost benefit of $8.30. Not to mention the fact that it actually lowers death rates. We know it makes sense to invest in public health. From the very scant information shared so far, we’re not getting the assurances that the province is willing to continue investing in public health.
“It really does look like the province is putting public health at risk, both from the perspective of reducing its contribution to public health and putting more of the costs on municipalities that may not have the resources, and also by diminishing the connection to local municipalities.”
Of note, adds Dr. Salvaterra, is the reduction of funding for public health labs announced in the budget.
“Our public health lab processes between 40,000 to 45,000 samples of water per year, whether its recreational water or drinking water. The worry is, if they shut down the labs, we lose those timely and accessible services. In fact it’s just going to generate more costs to have to courier samples to Kingston or Toronto, or potentially end up with fewer tests being done because of the barriers.”
Dr. Salvaterra has been in communication with her medical officer of health colleagues from across Ontario, some of whom have put in place a hiring freeze to better prepare for what’s to come. The local public health agency, she says, “is being very judicious on a case-by-case basis until we get more information. It’s hard to know how hard we’re going to be hit.”
Previously known as the Peterborough County-City Health Unit, Peterborough Public Health is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2019. In 2015, the agency moved from Hospital Drive to its current location at Jackson Square (185 King St.) in downtown Peterborough, and rebranded the following year. (Photo: Peterborough Public Health)
Public statements of support for public health from the Ontario Medical Association and the Canadian Paediatric Society have been helpful. As well, she says, public health has history on its side.
“When milk was the leading source of death, it was local boards of health and local municipalities that introduced bylaws that legislated milk be pasteurized. It took the province years to catch up.
“And it was local boards of health and local municipalities that passed bylaws restricting second-hand tobacco smoke years before the province was able to catch up with provincial legislation. Municipalities are on the front lines of protecting their communities. Public health supports them in that work. It’s work that needs to be protected and invested in.”
With her offer to MPP Smith to sit down and talk on the table, Dr. Salvaterra is seeking a meaningful voice for public health care in any discussion around budget cutting and amalgamation.
“It’s important that amalgamation makes sense. It must strike the right balance between the size of the geographical area, the population of the area, and the maintaining of that connection with local government. We want to be engaged with MPP Smith and with our minister of health in actually designing what a more modern or streamlined public health system could look like for Ontario.”
“We believe it can be done in a way that protects important public health services, that reinvests any savings back into public health, and that ensures the connections with the community and local councils are strengthened and maintained.”
The public health board has struck a working group to examine further the implications of the funding cut and determine the next steps. It will report back at the board’s next meeting on Wednesday, May 8th.
A member of Peterborough Fire Services takes photos following a fire that occurred around 4:52 a.m. on April 30, 2019 at 72 Hunter Street East in Peterborough's East City. One person is in a Toronto hospital with serious injuries following the fire, which the Ontario Fire Marshal and Peterborough Police Services are investigating. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)
Peterborough police have determined a fire early on Tuesday morning (April 30) that seriously injured the occupant of an East City apartment is not suspicious in nature.
Emergency services were called at around 4:52 a.m. on Tuesday to respond to a fire in a second-floor apartment above Sparrows Hair Studio at 72 Hunter Street East, adjoining the Peterborough Examiner’s building.
Police, fire services, and EMS attended. Fire crews evacuated all of the occupants of the multi-unit residence, rescuing one person from the unit involved in the fire. The person was treated on scene, taken to a local hospital, and then transported by Ornge air ambulance to a Toronto hospital with serious injuries.
Some of the damage following a fire that occurred around 4:52 a.m. on April 30, 2019 at a second floor apartment at 72 Hunter Street East in Peterborough’s East City. An occupant of the apartment was initially taken to a local hospital, and was then flown to a Toronto hospital where they remain with serious injuries. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)
The fire was quickly brought under control and damages were contained to the second-floor unit where the fire occurred.
Police had closed off a small section of Hunter Street East with police tape and barriers until around 11 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
Initially, police were assisting the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal with an investigation into the fire. Now that police have deemed the fire to be non-suspicious, they are no longer involved with the investigation.
Police and fire services on the scene of a fire at 72 Hunter Street East in Peterborough on April 30, 2019. A portion of Hunter Street West was closed for seven hours following the fire. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)
Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada's first female astronaut, has created and donated a paddle (second from left) for the Campfires & Cocktails fundraiser, which takes place at The Canadian Canoe Museum on May 4, 2019. Also pictured are paddles created (from left to right) by Robert Atyeo, Tia Cavanagh, Randall Knott, and Robyn Jenkins. A total of 14 paddles, as well as cedar-strip canoe constructed by the late Lakefield boat builder Walter Walker, will be auctioned off during the event, with proceeds supporting the museum's educational and public programs. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Imagine owning a one-of-a-kind canoe paddle created by Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada’s first female astronaut. Or one by Canadian television’s power couple Peter Mansbridge and Cynthia Dale. Or several by talented local artists including Peer Christensen, John Climenhage, Tia Cavanagh, and Joe Stable.
The Canadian Canoe Museum presents Campfires & Cocktails
When: Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. Where: The Canadian Canoe Museum (910 Monaghan Rd., Peterborough) How much: $75 per person
Featuring local campfire-inspired cuisine and a signature cocktail, live music by the Dixie Hicks (Melissa Payne, Kate Suhr, and Kate Brioux), a live auction with paddles painted by local artisans and Canadian celebrities, door prizes, a chance to bid on a cedar-strip canoe made by Walter Walker, and more. Proceeds will support the museum’s educational and public programs. Limited tickets available online at canoemuseum.ca/campfires-cocktails/.
Or how about a cedar-strip canoe hand-crafted by the late Walter Walker, who once built a canoe for Prince Andrew?
You will have a chance to bid on all these items during a live auction at The Canadian Canoe Museum’s Campfires & Cocktails fundraiser, which takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 4th at The Canadian Canoe Museum (910 Monaghan Rd., Peterborough).
Attendees are encouraged to wear flannel to the casual evening event, which will raise funds for the museum’s educational and public programs.
In addition to the live auction of the paddles and the canoe, your $75 ticket includes campfire-inspired cuisine prepared by local culinary experts, along with a signature cocktail. While browsing the museum’s galleries, you can also enjoy the country-folk-pop music of the Dixie Hicks, featuring local musicians Kate Brioux, Melissa Payne, and Kate Suhr.
Musicians Kate Suhr and Melissa Payne performing at The Canadian Canoe Museum on March 5, 2019 during the announcement of the Campfires & Cocktails event. Suhr and Payne, along with musician Kate Brioux, will perform as the Dixie Hicks at the fundraiser, which takes place at the museum on May 4, 2019. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
The Campfires & Cocktails fundraiser has been organized by a group of 10 community volunteers, including Jane Ulrich, who were inspired by the educational outreach work of the museum.
“My very first visit to The Canadian Canoe Museum was nothing short of jaw dropping,” Ulrich says. “Seeing first-hand this world-class collection and learning how to make a canoe is what first inspired me.”
“Then, when I realized how the museum reaches students locally, regionally and around the world, I was further impressed. As an organizing committee, we are inviting community members to join us in supporting this award-winning educational programming, as the museum prepares for its move to the water’s edge.”
The 16-foot cedar-strip canoe constructed by renowned Lakefield boat-builder Walter Walker, along with a pair of hand-carved cherry paddles, will be auctioned off to the highest bidder at the Campfires & Cocktails fundraiser at The Canadian Canoe Museum on May 4, 2019. Bids by proxy will also be accepted until May 3rd. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
In support of the museum, 14 distinguished Canadians and local artists have donated one-of-a-kind paddles for the fundraiser, which will be auctioned off by special guest Susan Dunkley.
The paddles were created by Dr. Roberta Bondar, Peter Mansbridge and Cynthia Dale, Robert Atyeo, Tia Cavanagh, John Climenhage, Peer Christensen, Beth Fisher, Jeannie Guillet, David Hickey, Robyn Jenkins, Jenny Kastner, Randall Knott, Renee O’Connor, and Joe Stable.
“Each of the individuals who created a paddle did so with great care and consideration and they’re exquisite works of art,” says the museum’s annual giving coordinator Caroline Anderson.
“Dr. Bondar’s paddle features one of her photographs, while Peter Mansbridge and Cynthia Dale painted a striking sunset sky. Meanwhile, Tia Cavanagh, a multi-disciplinary Indigenous artist, painted the full paddle with a white design on a black background to represent stars in the night sky.”
“We saw so much creativity from those we approached and some, like David Hickey and Randall Knott, even decided to do carvings on their paddles. The museum is so grateful for these incredible contributions.”
Also featured at the live auction is a 16-foot cedar-strip canoe built by the renowned Walter Walker.
Walker, who died in 2009 just a few weeks shy of his 102nd birthday, was a boat builder who lived most of his life in Lakefield. Born in Ancaster, he moved to Lakefield when he was 24 years old after his father became the minister at Lakefield Baptist Church. Following employment as a woodworker at a furniture company, he worked for Lakefield Canoe Company and built cedar-strip sail boats for Sail-Craft Co. in Lakefield.
Walker then worked for 20 years at the Peterborough Canoe Company and, when it closed in 1961, he became production manager for RILCO Industries Limited in Lakefield, best known for its cedar-strip outboard boats. When RILCO closed in 1968, he built and repaired canoes at Peel Marine in Lakefield until he retired in 1986. After his retirement, he continued building canoes in the basement of his home in Lakefield.
A 17-year-old Prince Andrew (left) receiving his handmade cedar-strip canoe from 70-year-old master builder Walter Walker (centre) in Lakefield on June 15, 1977. On the right is Terry Guest, headmaster of Lakefield College School which Prince Andrew attended from January to June in 1977. Prince Andrew donated the canoe to The Canadian Canoe Museum’s collection in 2004. (Photo: Michael Peake)
In 1977, the Village of Lakefield asked Walker to build a cedar-strip canoe for Prince Andrew, an avid canoeist who was graduating from Lakefield College School. The Prince and Terry Guest, headmaster of Lakefield College School at the time, then took the canoe on a trip on the Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories.
In 2004, Prince Andrew donated the canoe, along with two others made in the Peterborough area for the Royal Family, to The Canadian Canoe Museum where it remains to this day.
Walker’s classic canoe, donated to the museum by supporter and volunteer Nan Campbell, includes a pair of hand-carved cherry paddles — all valued at $7,500. If you can’t make it to the live auction, the museum is also accepting bids by proxy until 1 p.m. on Friday, May 3rd.
The Campfires & Cocktails fundraiser on May 4, 2019 has been organized by a group of 10 community volunteers who were inspired by the educational outreach work of the museum. (Graphic courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
As noted, proceeds from Campfires & Cocktails will support The Canadian Canoe Museum’s educational and public programs. The museum offers more than 20 hands-on experiential education programs for students and youth groups from kindergarten through to university and college by day and overnight.
In 2018, almost 5,250 students visited the museum in person, while more than 3,000 from eight countries visited via virtual field trip. Field trips are guided by educators offering curriculum-connected programming in both French and English.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for all of the Kawarthas, for significant rainfall all day and overnight on Wednesday (May 1).
A low pressure system from Texas will track across southern Ontario on Wednesday and Wednesday night. Total rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 mm are forecast.
Rain may be mixed with ice pellets or freezing rain along the Ottawa Valley, which will result in reduced rainfall amounts in those areas.
The rain will begin early on Wednesday morning and end early on Thursday morning.
As the ground has limited ability to absorb further rainfall, the rain may increase the risk of flooding.
Flood messaging is in effect for much of central and eastern Ontario. For information concerning flooding, please consult your local Conservation Authority or Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry District Office.
Members of the Jacobs family in front of their new home at 76 Quinquish Road in Curve Lake on April 28, 2019. The home was made possible through a partnership between Curve Lake First Nation and Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
The Jacobs family is now the proud owner of a new home, courtesy of a partnership between Curve Lake First Nation and Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region.
On Sunday (April 28), Tanya and Duane Jacobs, along with their four children and one grandchild, received the keys to their new detached home at 76 Quinquish Road at Curve Lake Lake Nation, an Anishinaabe community located approximately 25 kilometres northeast of Peterborough. The dedication ceremony was attended by around 80 people.
“To our family, a Habitat home means we can finally see our dreams coming true,” Tanya said. “We can say this is our home and be proud of it.”
Prior to taking ownership of their new Habitat home, the Jacobs family had been renting a small three-bedroom home with one bathroom in Curve Lake. The rental home needed new windows and doors, a new roof, and other necessary repairs.
This is the first Habitat home built at Curve Lake Lake Nation as part of the ‘Maawandoonan – Coming Together in Partnership’ project (maawandoonan is the Anishinaabe word for ‘bring together’). The partnership is providing two lower income indigenous families with single detached homes built on two lots provided by Curve Lake First Nation.
The Jacobs family receiving the keys to their new home from Curve Lake First Nation Chief Phyllis Williams and Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region during a dedication ceremony at Curve Lake First Nation on April 28, 2019. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
“This is the first indigenous housing partnership for Habitat Peterborough and Kawartha Region,” said the organization’s CEO Sarah Burke. “It marks a truly meaningful opportunity for both partners to impact the lives of lower income families living on traditional territory.”
As indigenous peoples have a deep spiritual and cultural connection to their land, building homes in an indigenous community must be undertaken with the support of the community. However, the same criteria apply for any family applying for a Habitat home: they must have a need for affordable housing, a willingness to partner, and demonstrate the ability to repay an interest-free mortgage geared to income.
The Jacobs family decided to partner with Habitat because they had been faced with many challenges when it came to obtaining a mortgage and buying a home on Curve Lake First Nation.
Tanya and Duane Jacobs of Curve Lake First Nation with their four children and their grandchild. Prior to receiving their Habitat home, the family has been living in a small rental home that needed repairs. To qualify for a Habitat home, the family had to demonstrate the ability to repay an interest-free mortgage geared to income and invest 500 hours of sweat equity by providing volunteer service. (Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region)
As well as meeting the criteria for a home, the family also put in the mandatory minimum 500 hours of sweat equity by providing volunteer service on the build site, at the ReStore, and through other Habitat initiatives.
The Jacobs children are excited to have their own bedrooms and are looking forward to many sleepovers with their cousins and friends.
“This Habitat home means happiness,” Tanya says. “A place we can feel comfort, a place we can relax.”
Construction of the second home of the Maawandoonan project has already begun, and Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region are currently recruiting volunteers.
For more information about Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, or to volunteer or to donate, visit habitatpeterborough.ca.
The six finalists of the 2019 Bears' Lair entrepreneurial competition (Transit One, AVROD, Alexander Optical, Electric Juice Factory, Emily Mae's Cookies & Sweets, and PedalBoro) are competing for two cash prizes at the final pitch event on April 30th at The Venue in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
This week’s round-up of regional business news includes the Bears’ Lair entrepreneurial competition final pitch event on Tuesday night at The Venue in downtown Peterborough, Community Futures Peterborough’s ignite100 competition semi-final live pitch event on Thursday night at the Fleming College Trade & Technology Building in Peterborough, the Canadian Canoe Museum welcoming two new board members at its 2019 annual general meeting held last week, the City of Peterborough receiving $1.4 million from OLG for hosting Shorelines Casino Peterborough, and a summary of Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development’s 2019 annual general meeting held last week.
Every week, our managing editor collects business-related news and events from across the Kawarthas. If you’d like us to promote your business news or event in businessNOW, please email business@kawarthanow.com.
Also featured this week are Junior Achievement Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka’s 2019 Business Hall of Fame, Induction Ceremony, and Culinary Showcase on May 23rd, Peterborough business owner Shelby Watt helping a 13-year-old cancer patient find a dress for her Grade 8 graduation, Little Britain entrepreneurs Michael Bryant and Pauline Kiely launching a free rural transit service in Kawartha Lakes, and Cottage Toys celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019.
New regional events added this week include Peterborough Airport manager Lisa Davidson speaking at the Rotary Club of Peterborough meeting on April 29th, the “Launch Your Side Hustle” workshop with serial entrepreneur Nevin Buconjic on May 1st in Cobourg, and the Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s Breakfast Club featuring County Warden Liz Danielsen on May 7th.
Six local entrepreneurs will make their final pitch for a cash prize at Bears’ Lair entrepreneurial competition
The 2019 Bears’ Lair Entrepreneurial Competition is hosting its final pitch event on Tuesday, April 30th at The Venue (268 George St. N., Peterborough). Doors open at 6 p.m., with the event set to begin at 6:30 p.m.
Before a live audience, six finalists in two categories will pitch their businesses to three judges: Teresa Kruze (partner at skin care and wellness company Neora, and former broadcaster, TV producer, best-selling author, and community activist), Steve Reble, owner of natural food wrap company ETEE (Everything Touches Everything Else), and Brenda Hogan (senior investment manager at Ontario Capital Growth Corporation).
The three finalists in the Innovation category are:
Transit One – Husayn Dharshi founded Transit One to promote public transit by providing information to riders and to connect businesses and organizations with transit riders.
AVROD – Trent University student Jeremy Brooks created the Archaeological Virtual Reality Online Database (AVROD) to advance the way archaeologists work and learn, for which he won the 2018 Cubs’ Lair entrepreneurial competition.
Alexander Optical – Dylan Trepanier created Alexander Optical to organize pop-up clinics with eye care professionals on site to perform comprehensive eye exams, to find eye wear solutions, and to provide an option for people to finance their eye care, for which he won the 2019 Slingshot program pitch challenge.
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The three finalists in the Goods and Services category:
Electric Juice Factory – Based in Port Hope with a retail location in downtown Peterborough, Cheryl Gould and Will Harvey founded Electric Juice Factory to manufacturer organic, raw, cold-pressed juices and superfood smoothies.
Emily Mae’s Cookies & Sweets – In her home-based business, owner Jen Wight specializes in creating decorated and personalized sugar cookies.
PedalBoro – Hillary Flood and Pete Rellinger’s multi-passenger bike tour company provides an eco-friendly transportation alternative for exploring pubs and restaurants in downtown Peterborough.
By the end of the evening, one winner in each category will be selected to win a cash prize.
Community Futures Peterborough hosts ignite100 competition semi-final live pitch night on May 2
Community Futures Peterborough is hosting the ignite100 competition semi-final live pitch night from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 2nd at the Fleming College Trade & Technology Building (599 Brealey Dr., Peterborough).
ignite100 is an innovation challenge where existing business in the Peterborough region compete for significant funding opportunities that support business expansion and growth.
Eight semi-finalists will pitch their business idea in front of a live audience to a panel of judges: Joanathan Bennett of Laridae, Jeff Taylor of Baker Tily, Stuart Harrison of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, Raymond Yip Choy of Fleming College, and Sally Harding of Nightingale.
The eight semi-finalists are Iron Equipment Ltd., Cottage Toys, Cambium Inc., Percheron Plastic Inc., ATL Distributing, Treewell Limited, Goodwin Metal Products Limited, and Keene Trucks.
Each semi-finalist will have five minutes to present their idea, followed by a five to 10 minute Q&A. By the end of the evening, the panel will select three finalists.
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development held its 2019 annual general meeting
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development held its 2019 annual general meeting on April 25th at Showplace Performance Centre. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
Representatives of Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) shared some of the economic development organization’s 2018 achievements at its annual general meeting, held last Thursday (April 25) in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough.
The event included updates from Dana Empey, chair of PKED’s board of directors, and from PKED president and CEO Rhonda Keenan. ‘Advancing Prosperity’ was PKED’s mandate for 2018, and the organization demonstrated how it did that through its support of six key sectors: agriculture and rural development, aerospace, small business, advanced manufacturing, cleantech, and tourism.
Economic development industry thought-leader Eric Canada was the keynote speaker at the event.
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City of Peterborough has received $1,448,903 from OLG for hosting Shorelines Casino Peterborough
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has issued a fourth-quarter payment of $743,297 payment to the City of Peterborough for hosting Shorelines Casino Peterborough.
The payment for non-tax gaming revenue, for the period January 1st to March 31st, brings the total payment to $1,448,903 since the casino opened in October 2018.
OLG shares revenues with host municipalities to help them invest in local priorities, including community services and infrastructure.
The Canadian Canoe Museum welcomes two new board members at its 2019 annual general meeting
Freshwater protection activist Meredith Brown and paddler and outdoor enthusiast Brian Groves have joined the board of The Canadian Canoe Museum. (Supplied photos)
The Canadian Canoe Museum held its annual general meeting last Wednesday (April 24) and welcomed two new board members to the organization: Meredith Brown and Brian Groves.
Brown, a champion for freshwater protection, is widely known throughout the vast Ottawa River Watershed as the founding Riverkeeper and former leader of the charitable organization Ottawa Riverkeeper, a licensed member of Waterkeeper Alliance.
She holds degrees in biology, environmental engineering, and resource and environmental management. She is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and was awarded the Nature Inspiration Award from the Canadian Museum of Nature.
Groves is an avid paddler and outdoor enthusiast originally from Temagami who now lives in Whitehorse in Yukon. He is a graduate of both Trent University and Fleming College and had his first job in the museum sector welcoming visitors to the Kanawa Canoe Museum – Temagami Collection.
He has been working in the museum and heritage sector for close to 20 years, and is currently Manager, Museums and Heritage for the Department of Tourism and Culture, Government of Yukon.
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At the annual general meeting, Canadian Canoe Museum executive director Carolyn Hyslop and board chair John Ronson shared the museum’s work in support of its four strategic directions and the museum’s 2018 Year In Review.
Ronson also provided an update on the architectural design and the exhibit design for the new museum, and told attendees that the museum is working to complete components of the planning process over the next six months.
Robin Binèsi Cavanagh, the museum’s director of Indigenous peoples collaborative relations provided an overview of how the organization is working to broaden and deepen reciprocal relations with First Peoples, Métis, and Inuit.
Tickets on sale for Junior Achievement Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka’s 2019 Business Hall of Fame, Induction Ceremony, and Culinary Showcase on May 23
Attendees at the 2018 Business Hall of Fame event enjoying food and beverages supplied by Peterborough restaurants. Food vendors at this year’s Culinary Showcase include Amuse Café, BE Catering, Central Smith Creamery, Curry Village, Electric City Bread Company, Fresh Dreams, Imperial Tandoor, La Mesita Restaurante, SKH Events and Catering Company, and more. Tickets are now available for the 2019 Business Hall of Fame, Induction Ceremony, and Culinary Showcase, which takes place on May 23rd at The Venue in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Heather Doughty)
Tickets are now available for Junior Achievement Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka’s 2019 Business Hall of Fame, Induction Ceremony, and Culinary Showcase, which takes place the evening of Thursday, May 23rd at The Venue in downtown Peterborough.
The fundraising event recognizes local entrepreneurs for their contribution to the community, as well as the role they play in modelling entrepreneurial and business acumen for youth.
The 2019 Business Hall of Fame inductees include John Gillis (Measuremax), Michael Konopaski (Inclusive Advisory), Dr. Ramesh Makhiji (R and R Laboratories), Janet McLeod (East City Flower Shop), Dave Smith (DNS Realty), Dana Empey & Scott Stewart (Carlson Wagonlit Stewart Travel), Glenn Stuart (Kawartha TV & Stereo), Mike and Shelby Watt (Flavour Fashion, S.O.S. and Providence), Robert Winslow (4th Line Theatre), and Scott Wood (Ashburnham Ale House).
In addition to celebrating these esteemed members of the business community, attendees will enjoy food and drink from local food vendors as part of the Culinary Showcase. The food vendors at this year’s event include Amuse Café, BE Catering, Central Smith Creamery, Curry Village, Electric City Bread Company, Fresh Dreams, Imperial Tandoor, La Mesita Restaurante, SKH Events and Catering Company, and more.
The event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 23rd at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-876-0008). Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased online at eventbrite.ca or in person at the JA-PLM office (270 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-748-0024).
Peterborough business owner helps 13-year-old cancer patient find a dress for her Grade 8 graduation
Save Our Soles owner Shelby Watt, helps 13-year-old Kristey, a cancer patient at Peterborough Regional Health Centre, try on a dress. (Photo: Peterborough Regional Health Centre / @prhc1 Instagram)
Shelby Watt, owner of women’s clothing retailer Save Our Soles in downtown Peterborough, donated her time along with some of her products last Tuesday (April 23) to help a teenage cancer patient at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC).
When staff at PRHC’s Pediatric Outpatient Clinic found out that 13-year-old Kristey’s chemotherapy treatments meant she was unable to shop for a dress for her Grade 8 graduation, they contacted Watt to see if she could help. Not only did Watt immediately visit PRHC with a selection of dresses for Kristey to try on, she also donated a dress — along with a pair of matching shoes — to Kristey.
Little Britain entrepreneurs launch free rural transit service in Kawartha Lakes on Tuesday
The White Lightning Shopping Bus in Fenelon Falls during a test run in the summer of 2018. Bus owners Michael Bryant and Pauline Kiely are launching regular routes every Tuesday beginning April 30, 2019. (Photo: Danielle VanGennip)
Michael Bryant and Pauline Kiely of Little Britain are launching a free rural transit service in Kawartha Lakes on Tuesday (April 30).
Every Tuesday morning and afternoon, a 20-passenger shuttle bus will make stops in Lindsay, Woodville, Oakwood, Little Britain, Cameron, Long Beach, Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, Dunsford, and Omemee. The White Lightning Shopping Bus is fully accessible with professional drivers and features air conditioning, stereo music, and complimentary snacks.
White Lightning Bus Tours is the latest business venture of Bryant and Kiely, who also own Dromoland Orchard & Stables and Town Trolley, a chartered trolley bus tour service.
The weekly shopping bus is a community-led service, supported by local businesses and residents, and is not associated with any municipality.
Pauline Kiely and Michael Bryant. (Photo courtesy of Michael Bryant)
The concept of a shopping shuttle is supported by the Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, and Lindsay Chambers of Commerce. The first official sponsor of the shuttle is Miskin Law of Peterborough, which will use the bus for advertising.
For up-to-date schedules, including pick-up and drop-off points, visit whitelightningbus.tours.
Cottage Toys celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019
Donna Rork, founder and owner of Cottage Toys, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019. (Photo: Cottage Toys / Facebook)
Local water sports and surf lifestyle retailer Cottage Toys is celebrating its 30th anniversary this yaer.
Donna Rork, a former windsurf instructor, founded the business in 1989. It now has locations in Peterborough, Lakefield, and Stoney Lake, as well as an e-commerce website.
Cottage Toys is one of the eight semi-finalists in Community Futures Peterborough’s ignite100 competition, and will be participating in the live pitch night on Thursday, May 2nd at the Fleming College Trade & Technology Building in Peterborough.
Peterborough Airport manager Lisa Davidson speaks at Rotary Club of Peterborough meeting on April 29
Lisa Davidson of The Loomex Group and Peterborough Airport. (Photo: The Loomex Group)
The Rotary Club of Peterborough is holding its next meeting from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, April 29th at Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront (150 George St. N., Peterborough).
Lisa Davidson, director of airports at The Loomex Group and manager of the Peterborough Airport, is the guest speaker.
Rotarians and guests will enjoy a buffet lunch from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., followed by Rotary business at 12:15 p.m. and the guest speaker at 12:30 p.m.
For more information, contact Rotary Club of Peterborough program chair Jay Amer at 705-755-1141.
Deadline for nominations for Kawartha Chamber 2019 Business Awards of Excellence is April 30
The deadline for nominations for the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism’s 20th annual Business Awards of Excellence is Tuesday, April 30th. The nomination period for this year’s awards has moved from the fall to the spring.
Any business, individual, or organization within Peterborough County or the City of Peterborough can be nominated in one of 10 categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Professional, Outstanding Business Achievement, Commercial Development or Renovation, Customer Service Excellence, Entrepreneur Innovation, Not-For-Profit Excellence, Retailer of the Year, Service Sector Excellence, and Tourism/Hospitality. The awards will be presented at a gala event on October 10, 2019.
“Launch Your Side Hustle” workshop with serial entrepreneur Nevin Buconjic on May 1 in Cobourg
The Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland, Northumberland CFDC, and Venture13 are hosting “Launch Your Side Hustle” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1st at Venture13 (739 D’Arcy St., Cobourg).
Award-winning serial entrepreneur Nevin Buconjic, founder of StartUP Sault Ste. Marie and author of Starting Your Own Business: An Entrepreneur’s Guide and 25 Money-Making Businesses You Can Start in Your Spare Time, will teach you how you can turn your passion or hobby into a business. He will take you through the steps of identifying a business idea to launching your business in less than a month.
Haliburton Highlands Chamber hosts Breakfast Club featuring County Warden Liz Danielsen on May 7
The Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting The Breakfast Club from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 7th at Sandy Lane Resort (17592 Highway 35, Algonquin Highlands).
Liz Danielsen, Haliburton County Warden and Deputy Mayor of Algonquin Highlands, is the guest speaker.
Tickets are $30 for Chamber members and $35 for non-members.
Sold out – Inclusive Advisory hosts “Conscious Shift” workshops on May 10 in Peterborough
Inclusive Advisory, a multidisciplinary firm practising accounting, law, and wealth management with offices in Peterborough and Port Perry, is hosting a series of workshops called “Conscious Shift” from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday, May 10th at The Mount Community Centre (1545 Monaghan Rd., Peterborough).
With the tagline “leadership and management uncensored”, the workshops will feature four speakers sharing their experiences on leadership. Each speaker will give an original 20-minute presentation followed by a 20-minute question-and-answer session.
The speakers are: Paul Bennett, owner of Ashburnham Realty; Mike Skinner, president and CEO of the Innovation Cluster; Chief Kelly LaRocca of the Mississaugas of Scucog Island First Nation; and Sacha Lai-Svirk, director of digital health at Outpost379.
The workshops, which promise to “challenge the participants to step outside of their comfort zone” by introducing them “to alternative insights that challenge the status quo in management”, are designed for business owners, executives, managers, and community leaders.
Tickets are $200 each, with $150 from each ticket donated to The Mount Community Centre, Peterborough’s sustainable and inclusive urban village (charitable receipts will be provided).
Kawarthas Northumberland hosting regional ambassador training on May 13 in Peterborough
Kawarthas Northumberland (Regional Tourism Organization 8) is hosting a training session for regional ambassadors from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Monday, May 13th in the boardroom at the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce (175 George St. N., Peterborough).
The half-day course is free to attend and open to all Kawarthas Northumberland tourism operators and tourism businesses.
Space is limited. Register by Wednesday, May 1st by contacting Julie at partner@rto8.com or 705-874-8505 ext. 102.
Kawartha Chamber presents B.O.S.S. cyber security seminar on May 15 in Lakefield
The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce and Tourism is hosting its next Business Owners Sharing Solutions (B.O.S.S.) seminar from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15th at Beachwood Resort (3043 Beachwood Dr., Lakefield).
A panel discussion will focus on concerns specific to small business, including as website security, email and telephone scams, and online banking security. Panellists include Detective Sargent Vern Crowley of the OPP Cybercrime Investigations Team, Brendan Quigley of acorn30, and Graeme Barrie of Netmechanics. The panel discussion will be moderated by David Wilson of Let’s Get Digital.
Venture13 celebrates one-year anniversary on May 21 in Cobourg
The VentureZone includes 24-hour secured access, fibre connection and public wifi, as well as web-based booking. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
Venture13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre is celebrating its one-year anniversary from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21st at Venture13 (739 D’Arcy St., Cobourg).
The agenda will include a review of the past year’s accomplishments, the economic impact to date, and Venture13’s future strategy, as well as announcements regarding funding, community partnerships, and innovation in action.
Tech expert and entrepreneur Takara Small will deliver a keynote address about creating and encouraging rural and urban linkages, driving innovation and growth, and creating the exchange and flow of people, investment, and resources.
Following the keynote address, there will be a self-guided tour of the VentureZone where booths and demos will be set up to showcase Venture13’s entrepreneurs and community partners. A community BBQ hosted by the Cobourg Police Service will be taking place just outside of the building, with all proceeds going towards Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre and Rebound Child & Youth Services Northumberland. P
For more business-related events in the Kawarthas, check out our Business Events column.
Comedian Deborah Kimmett explores aging and ageism and explains how to survive ghosting and mansplaining in her latest show "Downward Facing Broad". She performs in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough on June 6, 2019. Musician Kim Pollard will open and provide musical accompaniment throughout the show. (Publicity photo)
On Thursday, June 6th, comedian and writer Deborah Kimmett brings her latest show Downward Facing Broad to Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough.
Deborah Kimmett presents Downward Facing Broad
When: Thursday, June 6, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough) How much:$29.50SOLD OUT
Written and performed by Deborah Kimmett. Directed by Christian Smith. With special musical guest Kim Pollard. Tickets are available in person at the Showplace box office (290 George St. N., Peterborough), by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org.
In this comedy show about the eternal battle with aging, Deborah takes on topics ranging from the generation gap, to aging ‘disgracefully’, to living as a modern woman in her sixties.
“People say that sixty is the new forty, but I say ‘Is it?,” Deborah tells me via a telephone interview. “It isn’t, because you don’t hear any forty year olds saying that. Sixty is really sixty. What’s wrong with our wisdom and how we age?”
One of Canada’s favourite comedians, Deborah has been working in comedy for more than 40 years. Fellow comedian Colin Mochrie has described her as “one of the funniest comics out there.”
A former instructor at Second City in Toronto, Deborah has been teaching writing workshops for over a decade, has published three books and numerous plays, and is a regular featured performer on CBC Radio’s long-running program The Debaters.
Always welcomed with a big response when she performs in Peterborough, her brand of comedy is frank but relatable, making her popular with audiences.
Now in her sixties, Deborah is unique by being a woman of her generation still actively working on the comedy circuit.
“There are not very many women at my age still doing comedy,” she says. “But I’m at the age that I don’t care. I’m saying the things that I really want to say and I’m not censoring myself as much.”
VIDEO: An excerpt from Deborah Kimmett’s “Downward Facing Broad”
One of the subjects she talks about in her new show is dealing with ageism, which she had a head-on collision with during the early days of preparing the show.
“I went to a young producer once and I told him about the idea for this show,” Deborah recalls. “He said to me ‘We can’t do any more old curmudgeon humour anymore.’
“In what sector can you say something like this? He’d never say ‘We can’t do any gay humour.’ There is no other sector you can say something like that. So we are supposed to live longer and have more fun, but also be put out to pasture in some way.”
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Another subject about aging that Deborah explores is suddenly becoming what she calls ‘the invisible woman’.
“There is a moment in every woman’s life where you become the invisible woman,” Deborah explains. “I remember this one time when I was in the grocery store and I was balancing about five lemons (in my hands). There were two men, one about 25 and one about 50, and I didn’t want to drop the lemons but they didn’t seem to notice.
“But then this young woman came up and said ‘Do you know where the pots and pans are’ and they tripped over their feet to help her.”
But, according to Deb, there are some benefits to becoming invisible.
“You can take extra samples at Costco, you can steal, you can become a thief.”
Comedian Deborah Kimmett, who recently entered her sixties, has been working in comedy for more than 40 years. As well as being a comedian, she is a writer, actress, and inspirational speaker. (Publicity photo)
Deborah believes that in our modern era, being 60 today isn’t at all what it was like for the women from generations before her.
“As I get older. I look back and recognize the wisdom of my grandmothers and how different it was when they aged. At 60 they were done and worn out, but I’m still supposed to be living forever.
“They had lots of kids, but they also had no role after they got to such an age. If they were lucky, they went to Florida once and then died. Today at sixty, you’re supposed to have a bucket list. I think ‘Do I really need that, on top of everything else?'”
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“The show is also about how older women in my life have meant a lot to me,” Deb adds. “So if I like older women, then why don’t I want to own that quality in myself? Why can’t we own being over sixty?”
Directed by Christian Smith, Downward Facing Broad also features the music of Kingston-based singer Kim Pollard, who will be appearing as Deb’s special guest performing a set prior to the show, as well as providing musical accompaniment throughout the performance.
“Kim is a blues singer who I’ve played with for about ten years,” Deborah says. “She plays off of me, does great music at the beginning, and weaves it throughout the show. It becomes a great evening of comedy and song.”
VIDEO: Kim Pollard performing with her band
Although Downward Facing Broad is about women and aging, Deborah says audiences of all ages and genders have come to her after the show to tell her how they found the material relatable.
That’s what makes Deb’s brand of comedy so appealing. Long established in her career as a comedian, she faces little fear in bringing a blunt sense of wit and wisdom to the audience, which is always devilishly funny.
We see can ourselves and our friends and family members in her observations of life, allowing us to laugh at our own similar experiences and foibles.
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Deborah’s Peterborough shows are always a sell-out, so get your tickets for Downward Facing Broad now. She will be performing on Thursday, June 6th in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $29.25 and are available in person at the Showplace box office (290 George St. N., Peterborough), by phone at 705-742-7469, or online at www.showplace.org.
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