Home Blog Page 834

What’s new from the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism – May 2, 2018

Selwyn Township has endorsed a new economic development strategy and marketing plan developed by Chamber member Strexer Harrop & Associates. Pictured is a sample of a promotional campaign built around the tag line "Our Small Towns =". (Graphic: Strexer Harrop & Associates)

BOSS: Mental Health In The Workplace – May 9th

Jack Veitch (right) of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge with "the Cowboy Goalie" Clint Malarchuck, a former NHL goaltender and mental health advocate. (Photo: Jack Veitch)
Jack Veitch (right) of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge with “the Cowboy Goalie” Clint Malarchuck, a former NHL goaltender and mental health advocate. (Photo: Jack Veitch)

The next B.O.S.S. (Business Owners Sharing Solutions) is next Wednesday, May 9th. The session will focus on Mental Health in the Workplace.

The panel of experts will include: Ashley Challinor, Director of Policy, Ontario Chamber of Commerce; Dave Pogue, Founder of Team 55; and Jack Veitch, Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge.

Panel Member Highlight

Jack Veitch is a health promoter and educator with the Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge Branch. Jack has worked with his local cmha branch for over 10 years in a variety of roles including housing, community support, intensive case management, and forensic case management.

Jack teaches a variety of certificate courses including safeTALK, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, Mental Health Works, Mental Health First Aid and Living Life to the Full and is a Certified Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace Advisor. Jack was a part of the team that helped to create the Ontario Hockey League/CMHA Ontario Talk Today program, in which he currently works as the Peterborough Petes’ Mental Health Coach.

Join the Chamber at the Lakefield Legion for this informative session. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. and the session runs from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Cost is $15 for Chamber members or $25 for future members, and will include a hot breakfast from Jack’s Family Restaurant. Register here.

The Chamber thanks the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #77 in Lakefield for providing the space for this session and professional development sponsor Lynn Woodcroft, Sales Representative, Frank Real Estate.

 

Save the Date

  • May 23rd – Provincial All Candidates Meeting – The Kawartha Chamber presents a moderated Q&A session with the Peterborough-Kawartha candidates for the upcoming provincial election. Candidates for the Green Party, Liberal Party, NDP, and PC Party will be in attendance, with David Goyette moderating. The event will be held at the Lakefield Legion. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the meeting will run from 7 to 9 p.m.
  • June 13th – BAH Woodview Hop – More information to come.

 

Have Your Say! OCC Spring Policy Survey

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has released a policy survey to members of all Ontario chambers.

This survey is designed to gauge the issues that are most important to members going into the provincial and municipal elections; capture awareness of, and satisfaction with, OCC advocacy work; and measure the impact of the Know Your Power program one year after launch.

The survey can be found here and will be available until 5 p.m. on Friday, May 25th.

The Kawartha Chamber will also receive local data from the survey if more than 50 members respond. This will help the Chamber to better represent and support local businesses.

 

Lakefield Spring Fling – May 3rd

The Lakefield Village Merchants are hosting a Spring Fling Shopping Extravaganza next Thursday. May 3rd. The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m.

The following stores are participating with special offers: Trinkets and Treasures, Happenstance, Tragically Hipp, Sunshrine Day Spa & Salon, Lakefield Pantry, Celtic Connection, The Chocolate Rabbit, The Cozy Home, Stuff, The Studio, Sunblockers, and Lakefield IDA.

 

Community Futures Peterborough Initiates Financial Fridays

TRIACON founder Carey McMaster will present a seminar on financial record keeping on Friday, May 4.

TRIACON founder Carey McMaster will present a seminar on financial record keeping on Friday, May 4.

Community Futures Peterborough has initiated Financial Fridays, a new training series focused on providing small businesses and entrepreneurs with important information on finance and business acumen.

These free sessions will be a combination of workshops and seminars featuring local experts and community partners, allowing those who attend to connect with service providers in their area.

The first Financial Friday will be held on Friday May 4th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the CFP office at 351 Charlotte Street, and is titled “Record Keeping Made Easy” presented by Carey Mcmaster of TRIACON.

The sessions are open to the public, and those interested are encouraged to RSVP in advance on Facebook.

 

Nominations Open For Ontario Tourism Awards Of Excellence

The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario — in association with Destination Ontario, the Culinary Tourism Alliance, and Attractions Ontario — is currently accepting nominations for the Tourism Industry Awards of Excellence, and votes for the finalists of the Ontario’s Choice Awards.

The Tourism Industry Awards of Excellence recognize businesses and organizations that have stood out in the industry for their innovation, events, or sustainability, to name a few. There are eight categories in which nominations can be made. Nominations are accepted until Friday, June 29th. To learn more and to make make a nomination, follow this link.

 

Lang Pioneer Village Named Finalist For Ontario’s Choice Award

Lang Pioneer Village in Keene is a finalist for a 2018 Ontario's Choice Award for  top small museum, art gallery, or historic site.
Lang Pioneer Village in Keene is a finalist for a 2018 Ontario’s Choice Award for top small museum, art gallery, or historic site.

The Ontario’s Choice Awards recognize top tourism businesses and organizations for their respective categories, such as festivals and events, outdoor attractions, or entertainment centre.

Finalists have already been chosen, and Chamber member Lang Pioneer Village is in the running for top small museum, art gallery, or historic site.

Voting is open until September 30th and you can place votes for each category or vote for Lang Pioneer Village here.

 

Selwyn Township Endorses New Economic Development Strategy

Selwyn Township has endorsed a new economic development strategy and marketing plan developed by Chamber member Strexer Harrop & Associates. Pictured is a sample of a promotional campaign built around the tag line "Our Small Towns =". (Graphic: Strexer Harrop & Associates)
Selwyn Township has endorsed a new economic development strategy and marketing plan developed by Chamber member Strexer Harrop & Associates. Pictured is a sample of a promotional campaign built around the tag line “Our Small Towns =”. (Graphic: Strexer Harrop & Associates)

The Township of Selwyn has endorsed a new Economic Development Strategy and Marketing Plan developed by member business Strexer Harrop & Associates.

The Economic Development Strategy identifies the top opportunities for business retention, expansion, and attraction to the areas of development & trades, professional services, retail, senior services and tourism.

The Marketing Plan outlines six branding campaigns to attract new residents, businesses, and day-trippers to the area, all centered around the tagline “Our Small Towns =” (an example being “Our Small Towns = Big Selection”).

The plan was met with much praise from municipal councilors.

Read the Township of Selwyn Economic Development Strategy 2018-2022 and the Township of Selwyn Marketing Plan 2018-2022.

 

Classy Chassis Female Ride Day 2018

Classy Chassis & Cycles is hosting a motorcycle ride event for International Female Ride Day on Saturday, May 5th at 11 a.m.

The ride will depart from Classy Chassis and will follow a route through Bridgenorth, Ennismore, and Buckhorn, with a lunch stop in Bobcaygeon.

The ride will end at Craftworks at the Barn in Fowlers Corners.

 

Free Transport Program for Apsley Seniors to Lakefield RBC

RBC Lakefield presented a cheque to Community Care to support a partnership offering twice-monthly transportation from Apsley to the Lakefield RBC beginning on May 9, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Community Care)
RBC Lakefield presented a cheque to Community Care to support a partnership offering twice-monthly transportation from Apsley to the Lakefield RBC beginning on May 9, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Community Care)

In the absence of a full-service branch in Apsley, RBC has partnered with Community Care to offer a twice-monthly transport program. RBC Lakefield has donated $5000 to Community Care Apsley for the organization’s Bank Drive Program, which will transport Community Care clients from Apsley to RBC Lakefield and back.

Read more.

 

Camp Kawartha Capital Campaign Update

 While Camp Kawartha has been showcasing sustainable building features at its Environment Centre since 2009 (such as these straw bale walls), the not-for-profit organization is raising funds to build Canada's first certified living building. (Photo: Camp Kawartha)

While Camp Kawartha has been showcasing sustainable building features at its Environment Centre since 2009 (such as these straw bale walls), the not-for-profit organization is raising funds to build Canada’s first certified living building. (Photo: Camp Kawartha)

Camp Kawartha has been raising funds to build Canada’s first certified “living building”.

Camp Kawartha is working to design a building that produces more energy than it uses, is built with non-toxic materials, and that will fully manage all water and waste on site. This building will replace their current dining hall and kitchen and will propel Camp Kawartha towards their goal of becoming a nationally recognized environmental education leadership centre. Camp Kawartha is planning to have some exciting designs to showcase in the near future.

Find out more about living building criteria here.

Those interested in helping out or donating to the project can email philanthropy@campkawartha.ca.

 

Surf ‘n’ Turf Tickets Now Available

Camp Kawartha is now selling tickets for it annual Surf ‘n’ Turf Gala Dinner and Auction, to be held on Saturday, June 23rd from 4:30 to 9 p.m.

The evening will include a steak and lobster dinner, as well as the opportunity to bid on wonderful prizes such as a trip to Africa, original art by local artist David Hickey, and a Weber barbeque courtesy of Kawartha Home Hardware.

Proceeds support education programming and the camper subsidy program which helps send children to camp, no matter their family financial challenges.

For more information and to buy tickets to the event, visit campkawartha.ca.

 

Savage Arms Tour in Support of PRHC

Savage Arms Canada is offering tours of their Lakefield-based firearms manufacturing facility to raise money for the PRHC Foundation.

The tours will be taking place on June 23rd, 2018. Starting at 8 a.m. and leaving every five minutes, tours are an hour in length with the last tour departing at 12 p.m.

Tickets are available at the Kawartha Chamber Office (under the Lakefield clock tower, next to the police station) for $10 per person until June 13th. Full names and citizenship will be required for ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance.

 

Chamber Members are Hiring

 

RTO8 Looking to Hire a Partner Communications Lead

Regional Tourism Organization 8, servicing Kawarthas Northumberland, is looking to hire an experienced Partner Communications Lead on a contract basis with an option to renegotiate to permanent full-time at contract end.

Any interested parties can find the job description here. Applications are accepted until Friday, May 18th at 4 p.m.

 

Upcoming Events

  • Selwyn Community Improvement Plan Public Meeting – May 8th
  • BEL Rotary Season Opener Golf Tournament – May 10th
  • Lakefield 5K Run & Walk – May 12th
  • Peterborough Chamber Provincial All-Candidates Meeting – May 17th
  • Lakefield Farmers’ Market Opening Day – May 24th
  • Classy Chassis 12th Anniversary BBQ Bash – May 26th
  • Camp Kawartha Summer Camp Open House – May 27th
  • Buckhorn Annual Golf Tournament – May 31st

 

For more information about the businesses and events listed above, please visit the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism website at kawarthachamber.ca.

All photos supplied by Kawartha Chamber of Commerce except where noted.

musicNOW – May 2018

Sarnia singer-songwriter Donovan Woods will be performing songs from his critically acclaimed new album "Both Ways" and more at the Market Hall in Peterborough on May 16, 2018. (Photo: CBC Music)

May is when we finally start to feel hints of summer in the air, the buds emerge on the trees, and the flowers begin to bloom. After a few months of hibernating, we are all ready to ditch the coats, hats, and gloves and get out to take in some live music. This May features some great concerts sure to please most musical tastes. These aren’t all of the great shows coming up in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, but are a few definitely worth checking out.


Lunch at Allen’s at Showplace in Peterborough on May 2

A powerhouse combination of folk and pop performers assemble for a big show at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) on Wednesday, May 2nd at 7:30 p.m.

Lunch at Allen’s consists of folk/country songwriter Murray McLauchlan, Cindy Church (formerly of Quartette), Marc Jordan, and “Painted Lady” hit songwriter Ian Thomas.

They’ll take you on a musical journey filled with laughter, anecdotes, and some familiar favourites.

Tickets are $49.50 and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.

VIDEO: “If It Feels Right” – Lunch At Allen’s

 

Al Ross as Elvis at The Ganny in Port Hope on May 3

Fans of southern BBQ and the music of Elvis Presley will be overjoyed on Thursday, May 3rd when The Ganaraska Hotel (30 Ontario St., Port Hope, 905-885-9254) hosts Elvis Presley impersonator Al Ross.

One of North America’s finest Elvis impersonators, Ross has more than 20 years of experience, has toured South America, Italy, and Las Vegas, and has been featured as Elvis in various commercials and movies.

The evening also features a “hunk of burnin’ love” southern BBQ prepared by The Social Bar and Table.

There’s a reception at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. followed by the show.

Tickets for the dinner and show are $64.80+fees and are available in advance on Eventbrite.

VIDEO: Al Ross as Elvis

 

Bruce Cockburn at the Academy Theatre in Lindsay on May 4

There are still a few tickets left for one of Canada’s most acclaimed and celebrated songwriters on Friday, May 4th. Bruce Cockburn will bring his Bone on Bone tour to the Academy Theatre (2 Lindsay St. S., Lindsay, 705-324-9111).

The tour features tunes from his latest critically acclaimed record, which won the 2018 Juno for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year, and a whack of tunes from his incredible past works.

Blackie and The Rodeo Kings’ rhythm section John Dymond and Gary Craig will be backing up Bruce, along with his nephew Casey.

If you missed Bruce last September when he performed at Showplace in Peterborough (see video below), you won’t want to miss the chance to see him in Lindsay.

Tickets are $60 and $50 and are only available directly through the box office (705-324-9111 or toll free at 1-877-888-0038). The show begins at 8 p.m. and Guelph singer-songwriter Nefe (Sarah Jea Felker) will be opening.

VIDEO: “Forty Years In The Wilderness” – Bruce Cockburn

 

Church-Key Spring Revival in Campbellford on May 5

It’s May, so it’s time again for the Church-Key Spring Revival at Church-Key Brewing Co. (1687 County Road #38, Campbellford) on Saturday, May 5th.

The annual hallmark of spring features live music from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. along with some great food and of course their award-winning beer.

Ten bands will be performing, including Madman’s Window and The Rodgers Boys. Proceeds from the event will go to support local school music programs.

For more information, call John Graham at 705-653-9950 or email info@churchkeybrewing.com.

VIDEO: “You Don’t Love Me” – Balls & Jane

 

Hillsburn at The Loft in Cobourg on May 5

Also on Saturday, May 5th in lovely Cobourg is up-and-coming indie rock band Hillsburn from Halifax, who will grace the stage for two shows at The Loft (201 Division St., Cobourg, 905-372-2210).

Hillsburn have been turning heads for a couple years now with their upbeat sound filled with harmony, melody. and a lot of love. In 2016, they were a Canadian Folk Music Award winner.

The last two times Hillsburn performed at The Loft, they sold it out, so this time there are two shows at 2 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. These are their final shows in Canada before they head off to the UK for the first time.

Tickets for either show are $20+fees and are available at the Concert Hall at Victoria Hall box office, by phone at 905-372-2210, or online at www.concerthallatvictoriahall.com.

VIDEO: “Strange Clouds” – Hillsburn

 

Harry Manx at Cameco Capitol Arts Centre in Port Hope on May 9

Harry Manx returns to the Cameco Capitol Arts Centre (20 Queen St., Port Hope, 905-885-1071) on Wednesday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m.

According to his bio,Manx is considered an “essential link between music of the east and west” and is described as playing “earthly American blues”. A multi-instrumentalist, he plays the Mohan Veena (a 20-string sitar/guitar hybrid), lap steel, harmonica, stomp box, dobro, banjo, and cigar-box guitar to produce his unique sound, which is a fusion of blues, country, folk, and Indian classical music.

Tickets are $45 and are available at the Capitol Box Office or online at www.capitoltheatre.com.

VIDEO: “Death Have Mercy” – Harry Manx

 

Gord Downie and Channie Wenjack Fund Benefit Concert at the Market Hall in Peterborough on May 11

Indigenous and non-indigenous performers will come together at the Gord Downie and Channie Wenjack Fund Benefit Concert at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 11th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146)

The event raises money for the fund, which supports reconciliation efforts, and will feature a variety of acts including music, dance, and spoken word. Entertainment includes Indigenous playwright Drew Hayden Taylor (who will be the emcee and will also perform), Beany John hoop dancing, the Wshkigomaang Women’s Hand Drum Group, poet Keara Lightning, Mayhemingways, TAZZ jazz bands, and headliners The Sadies (who toured and recorded with the late Gord Downie).

Tickets are $25 for general admission seats (the cabaret tables are all sold out). There will also be a silent auction with lots of donated items. All proceeds from the concert and silent auction will go to the Gord Downie and Channie Wenjack Fund.

Tickets are available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.

VIDEO: “Another Season Again” – The Sadies

 

Emily Burgess at The Arlington Pub in Maynooth on May 12

Guitarist and singer-songwriter Emily Burgess will be performing at The Arlington Pub (32990 Highway 62, Maynooth, 613-338-2080) at 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 12th.

Burgess graduated with honours from Humber College’s prestigious music program at 22 years of age, majoring in guitar. She immediately hit the road, touring Canada and the U.S with the 24th Street Wailers. Seven years later, she is highly regarded as one of Canada’s finest emerging guitarists.

Burgess has shared the stage and traded licks with guitar greats Jimmie Vaughan, Kevin Breit, Garrett Mason, Suzie Vinnick, Sue Foley, and Sam Weber, among others. She wrote two songs and played guitar on Wicked, the 2015 Juno-nominated album by The 24th Street Wailers.

Tickets are $10 and are available at the door.

VIDEO: “Til I Get To Call You My Own” – Emily Burgess

 

SOLD OUT – Donovan Woods at the Market Hall in Peterborough on May 16

Some songwriters just have a magic touch with their tunes, and Sarnia’s Donovan Woods definitely has it. He’ll be performing at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16th with his band The Opposition.

Woods’ songs have garnered big-time acclaim and have been covered even by the likes of Tim McGraw. He just released his firth album Both Ways, which has already garnered international kudos from music critics and fans alike. In March, Rolling Stone magazine named Woods one of “10 new country artists you need to know” and proclaimed “Truck Full of Money”, a track on the new album, as one of the 10 best country and Americana songs of the week.

Tickets are $38 for regular and $43 for cabaret tables. Get your tickets before the show sells out at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org.

VIDEO: “Truck Full of Money” – Donovan Woods

 

Danny Michel at the Market Hall in Peterborough on May 24

Speaking of magical songwriters, Danny Michel returns to Peterborough on Thursday, May 24th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146).

Called “one of this country’s undiscovered musical treasures” by The Toronto Star, the Kitchener-Waterloo native is a witty artist who floats between genres to convey his stories and songs. He has garnered three Juno nods and a Polaris Prize nomination, to name just a few of his accolades. He wrote and recorded the songs for his latest release, 2017’s Khlebnikov, while aboard the Soviet-era Russian ice-breaker Kapitan Khlebnikov during an 18-day Arctic expedition through the Northwest Passage.

As Toronto’s Sticky Magazine wrote, “When you need to restore your faith in humanity, just go to a Danny Michel show. Who else gets you to sing along to a song about what your meaningful purpose is on this earth?”

Tickets are $25 for regular and $28 for cabaret seats. The show begins at 8pm. Get tickets through Market Hall!

VIDEO: “24,000 Horses” – Danny Michel

VIDEO: “Nobody Rules You” – Danny Michel

 

Keith Hallett at The Garnet in Peterborough on May 24

The blues are a distinctive genre full of heart and soul. On Thursday, May 24th at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107), Keith Hallett brings his own brand of blues to town.

Hallett is from Canada’s East Coast and his music is jammed with great guitar licks, really great vocals that sound timeless, and some emphatic twists and turns.

The show starts around 9 p.m. and you can pay at the door.

VIDEO: “Broke Down Engine” – Keith Hallett

 

Bobby Dove at The Garnet in Peterborough on May 30

Make sure to check out Montreal’s Bobby Dove on Wednesday, May 30th at at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107).

Dove plays country music in the vein of Lucinda Williams and others. Her lyrics paint stories fit for country music — hurting stories, true stories, and tall tales.

Opening for Dove is Canadian contemporary folk singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Derek Harrison.

The show begins at 9 p.m. and you can pay at the door.

VIDEO: “Dovetales” – Bobby Love

VIDEO: “Coffee” – Derek Harrison

Seven local entrepreneurs receive $27,000 in Starter Company Plus grants

Jesse Bateson, owner and operator of Solid Leather, in his workshop. Bateson, who produces stylish and durable handmade solid leather belts, is one of seven local entrepreneurs who have received a grant under Starter Company Plus, a provincially funded business development program delivered by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Business Advisory Centre. (Photo: Solid Leather / Facebook)

Seven more local entrepreneurs in the Peterborough area are receiving grants to help grow their businesses under the Starter Company Plus program.

Peterborough & the Kawarthas Business Advisory Centre announced the recipients earlier today (May 1) in the lobby of Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough.

The following seven local small business owners, who participated in the most recent intake of the entrepreneurship program, will share a total of $27,000 in grants:

  • Stephanie Reynolds of The Willow Studio, Peterborough’s first yoga, fitness, and Pilates studio dedicated to helping women find strength, balance and confidence from bump to birth and beyond.
  • Carlotta James and Megan Boyles of Three Sisters Natural Landscapes, a social enterprise in Peterborough that provides eco-landscaping solutions to homeowners and businesses in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.
  • Jesse Bateson of Solid Leather, a Peterborough business that produces handmade solid leather belts designed for style and built for life.
  • Christine Teixeira of Accountability Financial, a Peterborough company providing bookkeeping services to small and medium-sized businesses as well as income tax preparation services.
  • Chantel Stovell of Olive Cedar Studio in Peterborough, which creates hand-crafted one-of-a-kind jewellery with concepts and feels inspired by the Canadian natural world, using sterling silver, semi-precious and prepared stones, with the occasional foray into other mixed metals.
  • Olaf Dunn of Pitched in the Township of Cavan-Monaghan, which provides Canadians with greater choice to explore the great outdoors by helping them find places to camp while giving private landowners an opportunity to earn additional income.
  • Rick Dolishny of BlushDrop Wedding Video in Peterborough, which helps brides and grooms get the wedding video they deserve at a fraction of the cost: friends and family do the shooting on their phones, and the BlushDrop team handles the editing.
Carlotta James and Megan Boyles of Three Sisters Natural Landscapes, a social enterprise in Peterborough that provides eco-landscaping solutions. (Photo: Three Sisters / Facebook)
Carlotta James and Megan Boyles of Three Sisters Natural Landscapes, a social enterprise in Peterborough that provides eco-landscaping solutions. (Photo: Three Sisters / Facebook)

“We are pleased to see a real sense of community being built through this program, with lots of collaborations, camraderie, and word-of-mouth referrals,” says Madeleine Hurrell, Economic Development Officer with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development, who oversees both the Starter Company Plus and Summer Company programs.

“Beyond being a community builder, this program is also creating opportunities for growth for the over 75 business owners who have participated in Starter Company Plus to date. We have seen participants expand into new markets, open up bricks-and-mortar locations, and create jobs in the region.”

Now in its second year, Starter Company Plus is a Government of Ontario funded program delivered locally by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Business Advisory Centre. Through the program, entrepreneurs receive support to start, grow, or buy a business.

Chantel Stovell of Olive Cedar Studio creates one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted one-of-a-kind jewellery inspired by the Canadian natural world. (Photo: Olive Cedar Studio / Facebook)
Chantel Stovell of Olive Cedar Studio creates one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted one-of-a-kind jewellery inspired by the Canadian natural world. (Photo: Olive Cedar Studio / Facebook)

The program offers a series of workshops to help program participants create a formal business plan, culminating in their chance to pitch for up to $5,000 in Starter Company Plus funding.

Starter Company Plus is now open for applications in the month of May. For full details on Starter Company Plus, including application dates, program description, eligibility requirements, terms and conditions for the program, visit peterboroughed.ca/starter-company-plus.

VIDEO: Starter Company Plus: Livin’ the Dream in Peterborough & the Kawarthas

Pedestrian-friendly Peterborough Downtown Farmers’ Market opens Wednesday

The Peterborough Downtown Farmers' Market opens for the 2018 season on Wednesday, May 2. To accommodate construction of the new urban park at Louis Street, this year's market will be located on Charlotte St. between George and Louis, which will be closed to traffic while the market runs from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. every Wednesday. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Downtown Farmers' Market)

Wednesday (May 2) is the opening day of the Peterborough Downtown Farmers’ Market for its 21st season.

Previously located in the Louis Street Parking Lot off of Charlotte, the market’s location is moving slightly to accommodate construction of the new urban park at Louis Street.

This year, the market will be located right on Charlotte, which will be closed to traffic between George and Louis Streets to make the market pedestrian friendly.

The market opens at 8:30 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. every Wednesday until October 31st.

Other than the market and vendors location (see map below), the producers-only market will continue as it has in the past, where shoppers can buy directly from farmers, growers, bakers, and more. As always, seasonal produce, meats, cheese, fresh flowers, baked goods, art, plants to grow, coffee, and lunches to go will be available.

Along with monthly special events showcasing seasonal bounty, guest chefs will provide samples, on-site cooking demonstrations, and innovative ideas on using market products throughout market season.

To learn more about the Peterborough Downtown Farmers’ Market’s policies, regulations, vendors, seasonal produce, special events, and more, visit www.ptbodowntownmarket.com.

2018 Vendor Map

2018 Peterborough Downtown Farmers' Market Vendor Map

Free transportation program to drive Apsley seniors to RBC in Lakefield

RBC Lakefield presented a cheque to Community Care to support a partnership offering twice-monthly transportation from Apsley to the Lakefield RBC beginning on May 9, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Community Care)

After its controversial decision to close the only bank in Apsley, RBC is attempting to create some goodwill by helping to fund a new twice-monthly program that will drive Apsley seniors to the RBC branch in Lakefield for free.

RBC’s Apsley branch closed for good on April 20, 2018, despite efforts by members of the community to prevent it. The closure leaving residents with no local financial institution, although an ATM will remain in Apsley.

RBC Lakefield has now donated $5,000 to Community Care Apsley for the organization’s new Bank Drive Program, which will transport Community Care clients from Apsley to RBC Lakefield and back.

After it permanently closed on April 20, 2018, the RBC branch in Apsley was gutted. There will still be an RBC ATM in Apsley, but no over-the-counter service. The closest RBC branch is in Lakefield. (Photo: Jeannie Crowe / Facebook)
After it permanently closed on April 20, 2018, the RBC branch in Apsley was gutted. There will still be an RBC ATM in Apsley, but no over-the-counter service. The closest RBC branch is in Lakefield. (Photo: Jeannie Crowe / Facebook)

The program will run on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month beginning on Wednesday, May 9th. There are four different pick-up locations in Apsley: Whispering Pines, Spruces Corners, Chyler Court, and Community Care Apsley. Pick-up time will be at 10 a.m.

The free program is only available to registered clients of Community Care (seniors 60 years of age and older and people with physical challenges who are 18 years of age and older) and reservations must be made in advance to hold a seat.

To register as a Community Care client, to find out more about the Bank Drive Program, or to reserve a seat, contact Sarah McCall at Community Care at 705-656-4589 or at smccall@commcareptbo.org.

Peterborough’s first-ever youth arts festival takes place this weekend

This piece by youth artist Gabriel Botting will be on display at the inaugural Peterborough Youth Arts Festival on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at PACE at PCVS in downtown Peterborough. Conceived by youth actor Lydia Etherington, presented by Art for Awareness, and supported by thee City of Peterborough National Youth Week Committee, the festival features both exhibits and live performances of music, dance, and spoken word. Photographer Wayne Eardley will also be presenting a photography workshop on Sunday, May 6, 2018 at Millennium Park. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Youth Arts Festival)

It’s National Youth Week and, this weekend, local theatre collective Art for Awareness is presenting the first annual Peterborough Youth Arts Festival (PYAF).

A newly launched initiative, PYAF is a chance for young local artists from all over the city and area to network with one another and exhibit their talents in a multidisciplinary showcase.

The Peterborough Youth Arts Festival is the brainchild of 15-year-old Lydia Etherington, a veteran youth actor and a Grade 9 student in the Kenner International Baccalaureate program. (Photo courtesy of Lydia Etherington)
The Peterborough Youth Arts Festival is the brainchild of 15-year-old Lydia Etherington, a veteran youth actor and a Grade 9 student in the Kenner International Baccalaureate program. (Photo courtesy of Lydia Etherington)

Having been under development for close to a year, the festival is the brainchild of 15-year-old Kenner student Lydia Etherington.

For most of her life, Lydia has been involved within the arts community. Starting at the age of four, Lydia has appeared in more than 20 stage productions through different theatre companies, and has even written, directed, and produced her own shows.

However, despite being known primarily as an actor, Lydia has also engaged in music, dance, and art, and admits her main interest these days is songwriting.

Over a year ago, she contacted Art for Awareness with the idea of putting together the festival as a way for young artists to network with one another and to create new inroads into the arts community that they might otherwise not have.

“It’s been in my mind for a very long time,” says Lydia. “I was fortunate to have my dad [Tim Etherington] who has connections with the theatre community so I could start when I was four — but not everybody has that. There aren’t that many opportunities for young people to do their own thing in the arts. They can join a show, but that’s going to be regulated by adults.

“So I wanted a way for young people to be able to show their talents and network without that adult help. I just wanted to create a chance for them to come together and just celebrate the arts.”

With events aimed at young artists over two days, the crux of the festival takes place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5th at PACE at PCVS (201 McDonnel St, Peterborough). The original home of the integrated arts program, PCVS is a fitting place to hold the first festival as it helped inspire a generation of artists and performers before the school shut down in 2012.

But, as Lydia explains, students should not limit their exploration of the arts to what’s provided in their school art programs.

“I think that it’s important that students, no matter what high school they go to, should have the arts available,” Lydia says. “But I think that it’s more important that young people need to participate in arts outside of their schools.”

Work by Emma Poley, one of the youth artists participating in the inaugural Peterborough Youth Arts Festival that will also feature other youth artists and performers including Kaia Martin, Greta Sina, Anika Rosen, Gabriel Botting, Aimee Gordon, Dante Pio, Maya Raval, and Paige West. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Youth Arts Festival)
Work by Emma Poley, one of the youth artists participating in the inaugural Peterborough Youth Arts Festival that will also feature other youth artists and performers including Kaia Martin, Greta Sina, Anika Rosen, Gabriel Botting, Aimee Gordon, Dante Pio, Maya Raval, and Paige West. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Youth Arts Festival)

With more than 20 young artists and performers participating in the event, the festival will have art and writing on display starting at 1 p.m., with music, dance, and spoken word performances starting at 2 p.m.

Artists and performers participating in the Saturday event include Kaia Martin, Greta Sina, Anika Rosen, Gabriel Botting, Aimee Gordon, Dante Pio, Emma Poley, Maya Raval, Paige West, among others.

“This is just the first year … it’s kind of our beta run, but we are hoping to expand on it,” Lydia points out. “We want to see how it’ll go and get ourselves off the ground. In future years, we hope to have more artists and to do more workshops.”

On Sunday, May 6th at 3 p.m., the first PYAF workshop will take place starting at the Silver Bean Cafe in Millennium Park in downtown Peterborough with local photographer Wayne Eardley.

Photographer Wayne Eardley (right), pictured with his wife Karen and his parents at the 2016 opening of his photography exhibit at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. Eardley will be leading an outdoor photography workshop at Millennium Park on May 6, 2018. (Photo: Selrahc Yrogerg)
Photographer Wayne Eardley (right), pictured with his wife Karen and his parents at the 2016 opening of his photography exhibit at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. Eardley will be leading an outdoor photography workshop at Millennium Park on May 6, 2018. (Photo: Selrahc Yrogerg)

“It’s going to be a walk-around where people can use their mobile phones or their cameras if they’ve got them,” Lydia says.

“They can take pictures and Wayne will show participants angles and lighting and different techniques that people can add to their photography work kit, that will make their photos just a little bit better. It’s also a way to explore Peterborough and take some really nice pictures.”

PYAF is also being supported by the City of Peterborough National Youth Week Committee. National Youth Week starts today (May 1) and continues until Monday, May 7th. (See a list of events at www.ptboyouth.com.)

The first Peterborough Youth Arts Festival takes place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at PACE at PCVS in downtown Peterborough.
The first Peterborough Youth Arts Festival takes place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at PACE at PCVS in downtown Peterborough.

“Everyone we’ve talked to love this idea and they’ve been very supportive,” says Lydia. “It’s something you see in Peterborough all the time. It’s the willingness to contribute to local initiatives and the passion that everyone has for their ideas.

“It’s incredible to see that an idea that some kid has can happen because so many people are helping.”

Peterborough is renowned for its artistic community, and it’s the youth of today who will make up our arts scene of tomorrow.

The PYAF is a positive way to allow these young artists to get a head start on tomorrow, by allowing them to connect with one another and strengthen their own individual place within the existing culture.

As Lydia herself notes, she has already created new professional relationships with local artists in the process of creating the PYAF.

“I already knew a lot of the people involved, but have met so many new people through other artists,” she says. “Once you get into it, there is such a big network of young artists who are waiting to put themselves out there, whether it is in a little coffeehouse or a play. There is so much talent in this town.”

The Peterborough Youth Arts Festival takes place on Saturday, May 5th at PACE at PCVS (201 McDonnel St, Peterborough). Doors and exhibits open at 1 p.m. with live performances beginning at 2 p.m. Admission is $5 or pay what you can.

Wayne Eardley’s photography workshop will be held on Sunday, May 6th at 3 p.m. beginning at the Silver Bean Cafe in Millennium Park (130 King St., Peterborough). This workshop is free for participants under 18 years of age.

artNOW – May 2018

Visitors to the Art Gallery of Peterborough looking at a painting by Keita Morimoto at the opening of the 'These things I Have Seen' exhibition, one of three exhibits on now at the gallery until June 24th. (Photo: Karol Orzechowski / Decipher Images)

This May, there are interesting new exhibits featured at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, a talk at the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington by multidisciplinary artist Anne O’Callaghan, and Martha Eleen’s ‘Before Tomorrow’ opening at the Art Gallery of Bancroft.

The 50/50 Art Draw is happening at Artspace, with a preview night during the First Friday art crawl on May 4th. Also on May 4th, Christensen Fine Art launches a new show by abstract painter and installation artist Rowena Dykins, while Chey Greig and Joe Stable are featured at Acme. Later in the month, work by Tsēma Ighara is opening at Artspace.

There’s a creative disciplines workshop with Chrissy Poitras and Kyle Topping at Artspace and a Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth lantern-making workshop, and not to be forgotten are the inaugural Peterborough Arts Awards, coming up on May 25th during the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts which features guest speaker Wanda Nanibush of the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Finally, Public Energy Performing Arts is seeking a summer student as a program assistant in media and communications.


Detail of an abstract painting by  Martha Eleen on display at 'Before Tomorrow' at the Art Gallery of Bancroft. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Bancroft)
Detail of an abstract painting by Martha Eleen on display at ‘Before Tomorrow’ at the Art Gallery of Bancroft. (Photo courtesy of Art Gallery of Bancroft)

‘Before Tomorrow’ is a series of paintings by Martha Eleen illustrating the artist’s journey into abstraction. As her work is rooted in her life, this show also makes reference a period of time before during and after the death of her son. Martha is now in a place where she depicts her own internal landscape in her abstract canvasses.

Eleen’s paintings have received critical attention in the form of curatorial essays, reviews and publications, and have been exhibited in public galleries in Canada, U.S.A, Mexico, and Japan. Her work is represented in permanent collections including the Art Gallery of Ontario. She is an honours graduate of Emily Carr College of Art in Vancouver. Eleen lives in Toronto where she teaches painting and drawing at Toronto School of Art and is represented by Loop Gallery.

‘Before Tomorrow’ will be on display at the Art Gallery of Bancroft Tuesday, May 1st until Saturday, May 26th. Drop by the opening reception on Friday, May 4th at 7:30 p.m. to see the collection and perhaps discuss more about the process with the artist.

The gallery will also be offering “Ways of Seeing: Four different ways to enter a painting process”, a workshop with Eleen from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m on Sunday, May 6th. Contact the gallery for details.

The Art Gallery of Bancroft is located at 10 Flint Avenue in Bancroft. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday (the gallery is also open on Mondays from mid-May through mid-October). For more information, visit www.artgallerybancroft.ca.

 

‘There is no map for the road I find myself upon’ by Rowena Dykins opens at Christensen Fine Art on May 4

'This one Belongs to the Night' (2018) by Rowena Dykins. (Photo courtesy of Christensen Fine Art)
‘This one Belongs to the Night’ (2018) by Rowena Dykins. (Photo courtesy of Christensen Fine Art)

Based in the Peterborough area, Rowena Dykins is an abstract painter and installation artist who captures movement and energy through the use of gesture, composition, and colour.

Her latest show, ‘There is no map for the road I find myself upon’, is informed by travel, change, and exploration. These bright striking paintings, sometimes almost topographical, are abstracted, poetic interpretations of places and rhythms in the natural environment.

An opening reception will be held during the First Friday Art Crawl on May 6th from 6 to 9 p.m. Drop in, get inspired by these dynamic paintings, and meet Rowena in person.

The exhibit continues until continues to Saturday, May 26th.

Christensen Fine Art is located at 432 George Street North in downtown Peterborough. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit www.christensenfineart.com.

 

Acme Art & Sailboat Co. presents works by Chey Greig and Joe Stable on May 4

'Colour Drunk' is a series of paintings by Peterborough artist Chey Greig. (Photo courtesy of Acme Art & Sailboat Co.)
‘Colour Drunk’ is a series of paintings by Peterborough artist Chey Greig. (Photo courtesy of Acme Art & Sailboat Co.)

Drop in on Acme Art and Sailboat Company in downtown Peterborough during the First Friday Art Crawl and see ‘Colour Drunk’, a series of colourful paintings by Chey Grieg.

A native of British Columbia, Greig is a Peterborough artist works predominantly in the medium of painting but also explores photography as an art form. Greig describes herself as a self-taught artist and is inspired by her late father andartist Levine Flexhaug, who is recognized as a pioneer and substantial contributor to the western Canadian art culture.

The opening will run from 6 to 11 p.m. on Friday, May 4th, when artist Joe Stable will also be featuring a new series of his copper works in the Copper Closet.

Acme Art and Sailboat Company is located at 129-1/2 Hunter Street West, 3rd floor, in downtown Peterborough. Hours of operation are Thursday to Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

 

Artspace 50/50 Art Draw on May 5

At the 50/50 art draw, the emcees will draw a ticket at random and call out a number, and the ticket holder with that number will choose a piece of art off the wall. Profits from all art sales are shared between our participating artists and Artspace. (Photo: Matt + Steph)
At the 50/50 art draw, the emcees will draw a ticket at random and call out a number, and the ticket holder with that number will choose a piece of art off the wall. Profits from all art sales are shared between our participating artists and Artspace. (Photo: Matt + Steph)

Artspace’s annual fundraiser, the 50/50 Art Draw, takes place on Saturday, May 5th, with doors opening at 7 p.m. This event promises to be fun for all featuring the always exciting art draw, door prizes, music, snacks and drinks. Tickets for the party alone are $25, and for the art draw are $100.

This is a good opportunity to get a great piece for a low price while supporting a local arts organization. There will also be the ‘fire sale’ at the end of the night, so if you are there to enjoy the fun but have not purchased a ticket for the Art Draw, you may well end up bidding on something during this part of the evening, which is open to everyone in attendance.

Artspace will be open for viewing during the First Friday Art Crawl on the evening of May 4th.

Artspace is an accessible space located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough. Regular hours of operation are 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.

 

Visual Arts Centre of Clarington hosts an artist talk with Anne O’Callaghan on May 6

 Part of Anne O'Callaghan's exhibition "Utopia! Who’s Listening Now" at the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington. (Photo: Jean-Michel Komarnicki)

Part of Anne O’Callaghan’s exhibition “Utopia! Who’s Listening Now” at the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington. (Photo: Jean-Michel Komarnicki)

In “Utopia! Who’s Listening Now”, Anne O’Callaghan’s current exhibition at the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington, the multidisciplinary artist takes on current issues of surveillance, propaganda, and communication.

O’Callaghan’s work explores ways in which artists effect change by addressing current political issues. Art and politics always have had an interesting relationship, and this show aims to subvert and deconstruct the ways in which corporations and institutions (such as the government) have developed and used surveillance and propaganda in recent times.

O’Callaghan will give a free artist talk from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 6th at the Visual Arts Centre, where she will discuss her installation with curator Sandy Saad. If you are in the area, drop by and check out this free event.

The exhibition is on now and continues until Sunday, May 20th.

The Visual Arts Centre of Clarington is located at 143 Simpson Ave in Bowmanville. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Tuesday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Friday to Sunday. It is a partially accessible venue with an accessible washroom and a ramp to the front entrance with a manual, inward-opening door. Hours of operation are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.vac.ca

 

‘Expanding Together’ Workshop at Artspace with Chrissy Poitras and Kyle Topping on May 12

Kyle Topping and Chrissy Poitras, owners and operators of Spark Box Studio, are leading a free workshop for people in creative disciplines at Artspace in Peterborough on May 12. (Photo: Spark Box Studio)
Kyle Topping and Chrissy Poitras, owners and operators of Spark Box Studio, are leading a free workshop for people in creative disciplines at Artspace in Peterborough on May 12. (Photo: Spark Box Studio)

Chrissy Poitras and Kyle Topping run Spark Box Studio, which is home to a residency program and their own studio practices. They frequently run workshops and are guest lecturers at OCAD University in Toronto and Queen’s University in Kingston.

‘Expanding Together’ at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 12th at Artspace is a free interactive workshop geared towards people in creative disciplines, and encourages sharing of information and discussion around a number of relevant topics from creative business management to other creative concerns. Run by these two arts dynamos, it promises to be both fun and informative.

For more information about Chrissy and Kyle, check out their website at sparkboxstudio.com and don’t miss the fun and informative ‘Business of Art Blog’ and ‘Art School Guide’.

Artspace is an accessible space located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough. 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.

 

Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth presents a sculptural lantern-making workshop on May 12 and 13

 The Arts and Heritage Centre is presenting a two-day lantern-making workshop on May 12 and 13. (Photo courtesy Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth)

The Arts and Heritage Centre is presenting a two-day lantern-making workshop on May 12 and 13. (Photo courtesy Arts and Heritage Centre of Warkworth)

In preparation for the second annual “Warkworth by Night” family-friendly street festival on Saturday June 2nd, the Arts and Heritage Centre is presenting a two-day lantern-making workshop from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 12th and Sunday, May 13th at the Warkworth Town Hall Centre for the Arts (40 Main St., Warkworth).

Shadowland Theatre from Toronto Island along with The Branch Ranch in Warkworth (local specialists in all things twig) will be leading the workshop with the theme “flight & light / birds & insects”, a unique combination of basketry, sculpture, and theatrical magic.

The workshop costs $100, with all materials included. The workshop is limited to 20 participants, but a few spaces are still available. To register, visit ahcentre.ca.

 

Artspace Presents ‘future generations’ by Tsēma Igharas on May 25

A work from 'future generations' by Tsēma Igharas. (Photo courtesy of Artspace)
A work from ‘future generations’ by Tsēma Igharas. (Photo courtesy of Artspace)

Tsēma Igharas (formerly Tamara Skubovius) is an interdisciplinary artist and a member of the Tāłtān First Nation. In ‘future generations’, she takes on the conflicting ideologies between Tāłtān culture and tradition and the value systems imposed by colonialism regarding land and natural resources. These value systems are challenged by Igharas, and the impact they have had on indigenous cultures is made known.

‘future generations’ imagines possible futures for indigenous peoples. This show is an encouragement to care for oneself and the land, and acts as a means of education. By presenting strategies and gestures of resistance, Igharas encourages acts of decolonization. The opening of this show coincides with the launch of a publication focusing on the work of Igharas, written by Erin Sutherland and Jamie Isaac. This limited edition book will be available for sale through Artspace.

The opening reception will be held on Friday, May 25th from 7 to 10 p.m. The following day, Igharas will lead a free bead-making workshop at Artspace from 1 to 3 p.m. No previous experience is required.

‘future generations’ will be on display at Artspace until Saturday, July 14th.

Artspace is an accessible space located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough. Regular hours of operation are 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.

 

Peterborough Arts Awards to be presented at the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts on May 25

Wanda Nanibush, Curator of Indigenous Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario, will be the guest speaker at the Mayor's Luncheon for the Arts on May 25, 2018, where the inaugural Peterborough Arts Awards will be presented. (Photo: Andrew Williamson)
Wanda Nanibush, Curator of Indigenous Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario, will be the guest speaker at the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts on May 25, 2018, where the inaugural Peterborough Arts Awards will be presented. (Photo: Andrew Williamson)

The Electric City Culture Council will be presenting the inaugural Peterborough Arts Awards from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, May 25th during the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts at McDonnel St. Activity Centre (577 McDonnel St., Peterborough).

Six awards of $2,000 each will be presented for outstanding achievement in the arts, in the categories of emerging artist, mid-career artist, senior artist, achievement by an Indigenous artist, arts champion, and arts catalyst.

The guest speaker at the luncheon will be Wanda Nanibush, Curator of Indigenous Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

The luncheon is open to the public and tickets are $40, available at www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-inaugural-peterborough-arts-awards-the-mayors-luncheon-for-the-arts-tickets-45143875547.

 

 'Extensions 1' (2013) by Carolyn Code featuring polished cans and embroidery thread. (Photo courtesy Art Gallery of Peterborough)

‘Extensions 1’ (2013) by Carolyn Code featuring polished cans and embroidery thread. (Photo courtesy Art Gallery of Peterborough)

Three new exhibits opened in April at the Art Gallery of Peterborough and are running until Sunday, June 24th.

‘These things I have seen:’ features works by Carolyn Code, Megan Ellen MacDonald, and Keita Morimoto, three artists who deal with materials and subject matter in ways that bring together past and present vernacular in new and interesting ways.

Bringing together commonplace household materials such as aluminum cans and embroidery thread, Carolyn Code creates contemporary art out of commonplace materials, and old techniques (such as traditional embroidery) are seen in a new light.

The paintings of Keita Morimoto and Megan Ellen MacDonald use traditional painting techniques to depict scenes that represent contemporary schools of thought such as the disruption of established power hierarchies, colour schemes, and traditional narratives — thus subverting the original sentiment behind the styles of representation.

There will be an exhibition tour and talk with the artists from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 10th.

A detail from 'Memories of Paris' (2001) by J.C. Heywood. (Photo courtesy Art Gallery of Peterborough)
A detail from ‘Memories of Paris’ (2001) by J.C. Heywood. (Photo courtesy Art Gallery of Peterborough)

‘Carpe Diem’ features works by J.C. Heywood from the gallery’s Permanent Collection. A master printmaker, Heywood trained at the Ontario College of Art where he studied woodblock and later discovered screenprinting. He went on to learn etching under Stanley William Hayter at Atelier 17 in Paris. He taught at Queen’s University in Kingston for 32 years and continued to explore, gaining new skills through technological shifts.

A visual treat, this series of brightly coloured and intricately textured prints from Heywood’s Millennium Works series is bound to put some bounce in your step. True to the title ‘Carpe Diem’, this selection of work is uplifting and inspiring, reminding us that life is to be lived and enjoyed as best we can.

A detail from 'Visiting Grandma' (1977) by Daphne Odjig.  (Photo courtesy Art Gallery of Peterborough)
A detail from ‘Visiting Grandma’ (1977) by Daphne Odjig. (Photo courtesy Art Gallery of Peterborough)

‘Presence: Portraits from the Permanent Collection’ features works by Carl Beam, John B. Boyle, Rita Briansky, Sheila Butler, Michael Caines, K. M. Graham, David Hockney, Ivan Eyre, Stephen Livick, Norval Morrisseau, Daphne Odjig, Nobuo Kubota, Oskar Schlienger, John Scollard and Michael Snow.

This exhibit has a lot to offer. With a focus on representation of the human form, the exhibit provides food for thought as we see how the art of portraiture progresses and changes over time. A portrait can say a lot about the person who creates it, as well as who is being represented. Often a sign of the times, the portrait is very interesting to contemplate within social and historical context.

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.

 

Public Energy Performing Arts seeks summer student

 The team at Public Energy Performing Arts is seeking a summer student to assist in the development, design and delivery of marketing and communication plans and campaigns for the organization's 2018-2019 season and 25th anniversary year. (Photo: Public Energy / Facebook)

The team at Public Energy Performing Arts is seeking a summer student to assist in the development, design and delivery of marketing and communication plans and campaigns for the organization’s 2018-2019 season and 25th anniversary year. (Photo: Public Energy / Facebook)

Public Energy Performing Arts is seeking a summer student for the position of Program Assistant in Media & Communications.

The successful candidate will assist in the development, design, and delivery of marketing and communication plans and campaigns for Public Energy Performing Arts’ 2018-2019 season and 25th anniversary year.

The opportunity is open to people aged 15 to 30 years old who are currently full-time students intending to return to their studies in the next school year.

The application deadline is May 11, 2018. For more information including a complete job description and how to apply, visit publicenergy.ca/about/job-opportunities/.

Hastings County man charged following fire that took out communication services in Bancroft area

A 32-year-old man from Tudor Township in Hastings County faces several charges, including arson for a fire that took down internet, landline phone and cell phone service in the Bancroft area on Sunday (April 29).

On Saturday (April 28) at 11:30 p.m., the Central Hastings detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were called to a residence on Cleveland Road in Tudor Township for a break and enter. A homeowner reported he located a man in his house who had stolen shoes and some money. The homeowner confronted the suspect, who fled on foot.

On Sunday at 3 a.m., OPP were called to assist with a fire at an abandoned house along Highway 62 near Bannockburn Road north of Madoc. An investigation determined that the same man involved with the break and enter started the fire.

The fire seriously damaged nearby Bell Canada fibre optic cables and copper wire, resulting in a widespread outage of communication services in Hastings County, including Bancroft, Tudor and Cashel, Limerick, and Wollaston townships, and parts of Faraday, Hastings Highlands, and Carlo-Mayo townships.

Internet, phone, and cell phone services were affected. Most services have now been restored.

Eugene Dobratz, a 32-year-old man from Tudor Township, has been charged with break and enter a dwelling house, arson – damage to property, and failure to comply with probation. He will appear in bail court today (April 30) in the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville.

It is unknown at this time whether further charges will be laid against Dobratz as a result of the communications outage caused by the fire.

businessNOW – April 30, 2018

The new and expanded Bigley's Cottage Kitchen is now open at 49 Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon in the former location of Kawartha Coffee Co.. which has moved across the street and is opening later in May. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

Business news this week includes the opening of the expanded Bigley’s Cottage Kitchen in Bobcaygeon, a sneak peek at the soon-to-be-open Kawartha Coffee Co. at The Doctor’s Office in Bobcaygeon, a new employee time clock app called MotherClock developed in Apsley, website awards for the City of Kawarthas Lakes, the winners of the Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce Awards of Excellence and the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, and a government investment in CPK Interior Products Inc. of Port Hope.

New regional business events this week include an accessibility workshop for businesses on May 3rd in Peterborough, a provincial all-candidates meeting on business and agriculture issues on May 3rd in Port Hope, a free financial seminar from Community Futures Peterborough on May 4th, and the Innovation Cluster’s annual general meeting on May 31st.


The expanded Bigley’s Cottage Kitchen in Bobcaygeon is now open

In the former location of Kawartha Coffee Co. at 49 Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon, Bigley's Cottage Kitchen is open to the adjacent Bigley's men's wear store so customers can walk through. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
In the former location of Kawartha Coffee Co. at 49 Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon, Bigley’s Cottage Kitchen is open to the adjacent Bigley’s men’s wear store so customers can walk through. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

The expanded Bigley’s Cottage Kitchen is now open in the former location of Kawartha Coffee Co. at 49 Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon, and is gearing up fora grand opening celebration on the Mother’s Day weekend.

kawarthaNOW spoke with Sherry Peel, owner of Bigley’s — one of Bobcaygeon’s largest and most well-known retail businesses — about their expansion from a small cottage store across the street to the new two-level store.

“The Cottage Kitchen store originally was about 1,000 square feet and was really outgrowing that space,” Peel says. “Customers were asking us for an expanded version of these product lines. When the opportunity arose to look at the Kawartha Coffee Co location, it made sense to do it.”

When Kawartha Coffee vacated the location to move across the street, Bigley's owner Sherry Peel says it was a perfect opportunity for Bigley's to move the Cottage Kitchen store into that location as its adjacent to their men's wear store. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
When Kawartha Coffee vacated the location to move across the street, Bigley’s owner Sherry Peel says it was a perfect opportunity for Bigley’s to move the Cottage Kitchen store into that location as its adjacent to their men’s wear store. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

Kawartha Coffee Co. moved out of the 49 Bolton Street location late last fall and is preparing to open across the street at the building previously known as The Doctor’s Office (see our story below).

“The location is right beside our men’s wear store and 30 per cent of our kitchen product shoppers are men,” Peel explains. “For quite some time we’ve wanted an entirely seamless shopping location, and that has now happened. This was a perfect opportunity and the timing was right to make it happen.”

The renovation included opening the exterior wall of 49 Bolton Street into the adjacent Bigley’s men’s section, which means that customers can now walk from the new kitchen retail space into men’s wear, and then into women’s fashion, and of course into the shoes section for which Bigley’s is renowned.

The second floor features a cafe and is space for special events, food sampling, and shopping nights.  (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
The second floor features a cafe and is space for special events, food sampling, and shopping nights. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

The second floor of the kitchen space is now a café, designed to grab a quick coffee or tea while shopping in the store or as a place to take a break. Peel also sees the second floor as a perfect space for special events, for sampling their gourmet food lines, and for shopping nights.

“Incorporating services like the café is a trend that just makes sense,” Peel says. “We’ve been her for 30 years and retail has changed immensely in that time. The pace of change is increasing faster now with social media and online shopping. We’re a family-oriented retailer — the entire family shops here together and we’re striving to give our customers what they want in a destination retail location.”

The store is absolutely chock full of colourful trendy and practical kitchen gadgets and hostess gifts. The back area of the store now includes a gift basket creation area, where you can tell staff your budget and they’ll create a basket for your hostess gift, or for Mother’s Day, or even a BBQ basket for a cottage host.

 

Kawartha Coffee Co. at The Doctor’s Office opening in Bobcaygeon in May

 Kawartha Coffee Co. owner Kathleen Seymour examines redesign work in progress at Kawartha Coffee Co.'s new location at The Doctor's Office at 58 Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon. (Photo: Kawartha Coffee Co.)

Kawartha Coffee Co. owner Kathleen Seymour examines redesign work in progress at Kawartha Coffee Co.’s new location at The Doctor’s Office at 58 Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon. (Photo: Kawartha Coffee Co.)

If you’re a resident of or a regular visitor to Bobcaygeon, there’s little doubt you’ve been missing the food and fun at Kawartha Coffee Co. since they moved out of their location at 49 Bolton Street last fall. But good news is on the horizon as Kawartha Coffee Co. is getting ready to open at its new location, literally just across the street.

Known for many years as “The Doctor’s Office”, the building located at 58 Bolton Street is the new home of Kawartha Coffee Co. And this new location may well be home to the largest outdoor patio in The Kawarthas, with room for 110 people.

Owner Kathleen Seymour tells kawarthaNOW that “Kawartha Coffee Co. at The Doctor’s Office” in in the final phases of its renovation and redesign and is gearing up for a mid-May opening, with some exciting food ideas and patio plans in store.

Inside the new Kawartha Coffee Co.  (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
Inside the new Kawartha Coffee Co. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

Kawartha Coffee Co.’s new chef Graeme Miller is a recognized name as the oh-so-healthy chef from Two Healthy Rabbits. Genevieve McAdam, previously from the Lil Organic Kitchen in Whitby, is joining Miller.

Seymour says the plan is to incorporate global flavours, like Mexican fusion, with locally sourced food. Kawartha Coffee Co. is an Ontario Culinary Tourism designated FeastOn restaurant, which means that patrons can be assured that locally sourced food and drink is guaranteed and indicated on the menu.

The new Kawartha Coffee Co. location features a huge patio area that can seat 110 people.  (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)
The new Kawartha Coffee Co. location features a huge patio area that can seat 110 people. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW.com)

Inside the restaurant, customers will find comfy seating areas with room for 30 in this beautiful heritage building dating back to the early 1900s. While Kawartha Coffee Co. will continue to serve their signature hot and cold beverages with their decadent treats, the focus in their grab-and-go area will be on healthy eating, including smoothies, composed salads, baguette sandwiches, fresh juices, and more. They will also feature local artisan-made products.

The patio area will feature a food truck along with a refrigerated beer truck as part of the bar area. Penni Holdman, a resident of Fenelon Falls, is helping Seymour design the exterior patio space. Holdman is an international award-winning special event design architect and production professional, with over 30 years of hands-on event experience providing complete ‘beginning to end’ event design, management, and production.

The new logo of Kawartha Coffee Co. at The Doctor's Office, designed by Douglas + Son of Bobcaygeon.
The new logo of Kawartha Coffee Co. at The Doctor’s Office, designed by Douglas + Son of Bobcaygeon.

In addition to its heritage features and immense front area, The Doctor’s Office was indeed a real doctor’s office in the ’70s and ’80s. It later became a large cottage bar and then a restaurant. Coincidentally, Seymour met her husband Mike Fagan at that location — and he is now a doctor.

 

Apsley-based startup’s app turns a smartphone or tablet into an employee time clock

MotherClock is a mobile app that can turn an Android smartphone or tablet into an employee time clock. Developed by Jeff Sayers of Apsley, the app is available in beta for testing. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)
MotherClock is a mobile app that can turn an Android smartphone or tablet into an employee time clock. Developed by Jeff Sayers of Apsley, the app is available in beta for testing. (Photo courtesy of the Innovation Cluster)

MotherClock Inc., a Apsley-based digital startup cofounded by Jeff Sayers and Brad Thompson, is launching its mobile app that turns a tablet or a smartphone into an employee time clock.

As of Monday, May 7th, employers in Ontario can download a beta version of the app to test the time-tracking functionality with their employees.

At Sayers Foods, a family-owned and operated grocery store in Apsley with around 50 employees, Motherclock developer Jeff Sayers went through three different payroll platforms, each with its own set of issues. Finding it difficult to stay organized while manually calculating each employee’s work hours into the payroll system, he knew there had to be an easier way.

So Sayers developed the MotherClock app for Android mobile phones and tablets. The cloud-based app allows employees to sign in and out with the simple click of a button and also allows an employer to manage employee information, view, edit, and delete time clock records, and review calculated payroll totals including employee pay, taxes and deductions, all free of charge.

Developed with the cooperation of the Canada Revenue Agency and some of Canada’s leading financial institutions (co-founder Brad Thompson oversees the financial strategy of the company and is also the head of sales), Sayers’ app will also allow users to transmit payment instructions to the banking system to pay employees, as well as related taxes and deductions to the Canada Revenue Agency, for a transaction fee of two dollars per employee per pay.

Sayers is hoping various Ontario businesses will download and test the beta version of the app and provide feedback to the company, prior to the release of an official version.

For more information and to sign up for the beta program, visit www.motherclock.com. As of May 7, 2018, the beta version of the app will also be available on Google Play.

 

City of Kawartha Lakes receives international awards for its new municipal and tourism websites

A screenshot of the award-winning Kawartha Lakes Tourism website.
A screenshot of the award-winning Kawartha Lakes Tourism website.

The City of Kawartha Lakes has received two 2018 Hermes Creative Awards for its new municipal and tourism websites launched in 2017.

The Kawartha Lakes Tourism website at www.explorekawarthalakes.com was named a gold winner in the tourism website category, and the City of Kawartha Lakes municipal website at www.kawarthalakes.ca received an honourable mention in the government website category.

The Hermes Creative Awards is an international competition for creative professional involved in the concept, writing, and design of traditional materials, marketing and communication programs, and emerging technologies. The awards are administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, and international organization comprising several thousand creative professionals. The competition receive more than 6,000 entries each year.

“We would like to thank our residents, local businesses, and special interest groups for providing valuable input to ensure the new websites would meet the needs of our community,” said Cheri Davidson, Manager of Communications Advertising and Marketing. “Special thanks to our web developer eSolutions Group who expertly led us through the redevelopment process. The success of our websites has been driven by a partnership between government, community and industry.”

The City of Kawartha Lakes websites were funded with support from the Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC), which invested $100,000 for website development under the Eastern Ontario Development Program’s Community Innovation stream. The Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport provided 50 per cent funding for all of the imagery and videos used on both websites through the Regional Tourism Organization (RTO8) Kawarthas Northumberland.

 

Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce hands out 2018 Awards of Excellence

Bobcaygeon Horticulture Society president Ruth McIsaac with her Citizen of the Year Award from the Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Office of Jamie Schmale, MP Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock)
Bobcaygeon Horticulture Society president Ruth McIsaac with her Citizen of the Year Award from the Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Office of Jamie Schmale, MP Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock)

On Saturday (April 28), the Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce announced its 2018 Awards of Excellence at a gala at the Lakeview Arts Barn.

Ruth McIsaac, president of the Bobcaygeon Horticulture Society, was selected as Citizen of the Year at the Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce 2018 Awards of Excellence gala.

Other award winners were Andy Lummiss and Jessica O’Neill (Employee Achievement), Bobcaygeon Eye Care (Business Achievement), Granny Birds Wool Shop (New Business Achievement), Happy Days Houseboats (Hospitality), Bobcaygeon Canada Day Committee (Not for Profit Achievement), Canada/US Walleye Tournament (Tourism Achievement), and Sarah Quick of Globus Theatre (Creative Arts Achievement).

 

Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce hands out 2018 Business Excellence Awards

Martin Albert, cofounder of saffron producer True Saffron of Warkworth, receiving the 2018 Business of the Year Award from the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce / Facebook)
Martin Albert, cofounder of saffron producer True Saffron of Warkworth, receiving the 2018 Business of the Year Award from the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce. (Photo: Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce / Facebook)

Also on Saturday (April 28), the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce handed out its 2018 Celebration of Business Excellence awards at a ceremony at Island Park Retirement Residence in Campbellford.

The 2018 recipient of the Business of the Year Award was True Saffron of Warkworth. From their farm in the rolling hills of Northumberland County, entrepreneurs Martin Albert and Eric Charbonneau produce saffron, the most expensive spice in the world, which is derived from the flower of the saffron crocus plant. True Saffron is the top producer in Canada of high-quality organic saffron.

Other award winners were Johanna Allen (Chair’s Award), E Squared Fitness (Emerging Entrepreneur Award), Kinch Eddie Litigation (Customer Experience Award, service-based), The Bakery Warkworth (Customer Experience Award, product-based), The General on Main (Pride And Progress Award), The Natural (Ignite 2018 – Business), Community Care Northumberland (Ignite 2018 – Non-Profit Organization), Antonia’s Bistro (Excellence In Business), Beautiful Images by Montserrat (Community Impact Award), and Dollarama Campbellford (Inclusive Community Employer Award).

 

CPK Interior Products Inc. of Port Hope receives $895,000 from the Eastern Ontario Development Fund

CPK Interior Products Inc., which manufactures automotive interior products such as door panels and consoles for the North American market, has received an $895,000 investment from the Province of Ontario under the Eastern Ontario Development Fund.

Along with its own investment of $7,237,400, the company will use the funds to modify its facilities and install advanced new equipment.

Headquartered in Port Hope, the company also has locations in Belleville and Guelph as well as in Auburn Hills in Michigan.

The total investment will support 333 existing jobs in eastern Ontario and will create 89 new jobs. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

 

Peterborough Chamber hosts accessibility workshop for businesses on May 3

The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is hosting a lunch-and-learn workshop on accessibility from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Chamber’s offices (175 George St. N., Peterborough).

You will learn how the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) applies to your business and the advantages of developing an inclusive workforce. Topics will include responsibilities under the legislation, how to develop an accessibility plan and comply with the AODA, why hiring individuals with disabilities makes good business sense, and resources available to help you hire, accommodate, and retain employees with disabilities.

The event is free, but advance registration is requested at www.peterboroughchamber.ca.

 

Community Futures Peterborough offers free “Financial Fridays: Record Keeping Made Easy’ seminar on May 4

 TRIACON founder Carey McMaster will present a seminar on financial record keeping on Friday, May 4.

TRIACON founder Carey McMaster will present a seminar on financial record keeping on Friday, May 4.

Community Futures Peterborough is offering a new training series called Financial Fridays with the aim of supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs with information on finance and business acumen.

The free sessions will be held on the first Friday of each month and will be a combination of workshops and seminars delivered by the economic organization’s community partners and local experts, giving attendees the chance to connect with professional service providers in their area.

The inaugural Financial Friday takes place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, May 4th at Community Futures Peterborough (351 Charlotte St., Peterborough). “Record Keeping Made Easy” will educate you in Canada Revenue Agency’s guidelines and requirements, how organized records benefit your business in the long run, and what resources are available to help you.

The seminar will be presented by Carey McMaster, founder of TRIACON. She has provided consulting and training services for over a decade, with clients including start-ups, community service agencies, commercial enterprises, municipalities, and the provincial and federal government. She has also managed and operated several successful companies in her career.

The session is free, but seating is limited and you are encouraged to RSVP in advance at www.eventbrite.com/e/financial-fridays-record-keeping-made-easy-tickets-45556256991.

 

Northumberland – Peterborough South All-Candidates Meeting in Port Hope on May 3

The Port Hope and District Chamber of Commerce is hosting a provincial election all-candidates meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8th at the Cameco Capitol Arts Centre (20 Queen St., Port Hope)

The free event will include an opportunity to meet the candidates (Liberal incumbent Lou Rinaldi, PC candidate David Piccin, and NDP candidate Jana Papuckoski) and learn about issues that affect local business and agriculture.

 

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.

 

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

Innovation Cluster AGM

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.

 

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.

Peterborough photographer capturing inspirational side of local women

Susan Dunkley, Manager of Development and Outreach at the Peterborough Humane Society, is one of the local women profiled so far for "Inspire: The Women's Portrait Project", which will culminate on International Women's Day 2019 with a gala photo exhibition and fundraiser for a local women's charity. Professional photographer Heather Doughty founded the year-long project, with the support of certified makeup and lash artist Selena Wilson, as a way to tell the stories of remarkable women in the community. (Photo: Heather Doughty)

Peterborough photographer Heather Doughty always wanted to do a portrait project, so last month when she found herself thinking about how many remarkable women there were in the Peterborough area, she decided to take her spark of an idea and blow it up into an inspirational movement.

“Inspire: The Women’s Portrait Project” is just getting off the ground and Doughty has a lot of work to do in the year ahead — because she’s not just taking a few photos, she has decided to create a dynamic, introspective experience for at least 52 local women.

Doughty is accepting nominations at inspirethewomensportraitproject.com of women in the Peterborough community who inspire, support, uplift, and empower others. There are 15 different categories to choose from and every woman who is nominated will be asked to nominate two other women so that the project can grow organically.

Each woman nominated for the project has to submit a bio and choose three words that describe who they are and what they do in their communities.  "Vibrant, Courageous, Kind" are the three words that describe Tracey Ormond, owner of That's A Wrap Catering in Peterborough. (Photo: Heather Doughty)
Each woman nominated for the project has to submit a bio and choose three words that describe who they are and what they do in their communities. “Vibrant, Courageous, Kind” are the three words that describe Tracey Ormond, owner of That’s A Wrap Catering in Peterborough. (Photo: Heather Doughty)

The women who are nominated meet with Doughty and make-up artist Selena Wilson. They spend an hour or so shooting portraits in a location selected by the nominee and then three final photos are selected.

Two of the photos are shared immediately on the project website and on social media. The third portrait is top secret and will be revealed at the project’s grand finale gala on March 8th, 2019 — which just happens to be International Women’s Day.

The portrait project goes deeper than just the visual representation of these inspiring women, because each project participant has to submit a bio and choose three words that describe who they are and what they do in their communities.

“This is turning into a full experience,” Doughty says. “I go and I meet these women and they tell me their stories. It’s an interesting experience to see them coming up with all these cool ideas about who they are and what they mean to other women.”

Not only do the nominees get to see themselves through the lens of a camera, but many are asking for their three words on social media — leading to really insightful dialogue and moments of introspection.

“The project is really coming alive,” Doughty says. “There is such a connection. The women are so happy to be nominated and when they start telling their stories so much emotion comes out and this is what I’m capturing.”

"Energetic, Personable, Motivated" are the three words that describe Crystal Jessup of Crystal Jessup Photography in Peterborough. (Photo: Heather Doughty)
“Energetic, Personable, Motivated” are the three words that describe Crystal Jessup of Crystal Jessup Photography in Peterborough. (Photo: Heather Doughty)

Doughty says that many of the women have been surprised by the project feedback and they’re starting to see things in themselves that they might not have really connected with previously.

Many of these women are not in the news or not well known, so the nominations are having a big impact.

“It’s like we’re pulling these women out and saying that they are inspiring others and supporting others,” Doughty laughs. “We’re bringing these women out from the shadows and it’s so joyful.”

While the scale and scope of the project are something new for Doughty, photography has always been a part of her life. She fell in love with it as a child and she’s been shooting professionally for 10 years now. She says she feels such power every time she picks up her camera.

“That once click captures a moment forever and it’s amazing,” she explains.

Now, combining her art with the storytelling components of the project, Doughty is looking forward to watching Inspire grow over the months to come.

“The three words are so important,” she says. “The three words are where the walls come down and everyone wants to tell the stories behind those three words.”

And that’s likely what the project’s legacy will be. A legacy of helping women recognize the power of their actions, the impacts they have made in their communities, and capturing the look on their faces at that precise moment when they stand before the camera to own their success.

"That one click captures a moment forever and it's amazing."  Heather Doughty of Heather Doughty Photography is the founder and lead photographer of "Inspire: The Women's Portrait Project". (Photo: Heather Doughty Photography)
“That one click captures a moment forever and it’s amazing.” Heather Doughty of Heather Doughty Photography is the founder and lead photographer of “Inspire: The Women’s Portrait Project”. (Photo: Heather Doughty Photography)
Certified makeup and lash artist Selena K. Wilson of SKW Beauty of Peterborough is assisting  Heather Doughty with "Inspire: The Women's Portrait Project". (Photo: Selena Wilson)
Certified makeup and lash artist Selena K. Wilson of SKW Beauty of Peterborough is assisting Heather Doughty with “Inspire: The Women’s Portrait Project”. (Photo: Selena Wilson)

You can find our more about the Inspire: The Women’s Portrait Project at inspirethewomensportraitproject.com. Photos are being shared on the project’s Facebook and Instagram channels.

As well as nominating women at the project’s website (there’s no specific deadline), you can also nominate a local women’s charity that will be given a fund-raising opportunity, through a percentage of ticket sales and individual donations, at the project’s gala celebration in March 2019. Nominations for charities are open until August 1, 2018.

Become a #kawarthaNOW fan

30,360FollowersLike
25,158FollowersFollow
17,707FollowersFollow
4,391FollowersFollow
3,543FollowersFollow
2,980FollowersFollow

Sign up for kawarthNOW's Enews

Sign up for our VIP Enews

kawarthaNOW.com offers two enews options to help readers stay in the know. Our VIP enews is delivered weekly every Wednesday morning and includes exclusive giveaways, and our news digest is delivered daily every morning. You can subscribe to one or both.




Submit your event for FREE!

Use our event submission form to post your event on our website — for free. To submit editorial content or ideas, please contact us.