The OPP Canine Unit 2018 calendar is raising funds for the OPP Youth Foundation and Friends of the OPP Museum. The $15 calendar is available at OPP detachments across Ontario. (Photo: OPP)
For the first time in its history, the Canine Unit (K9) of the Ontario Provincial Police has released a fundraising calendar.
The 2018 calendar, which features OPP service dogs from some of the 27 K9 teams across Ontario, is available for purchase at local OPP detachments:
Peterborough County (453 Lansdowne St. E., Peterborough, 705-742-0401)
City of Kawartha Lakes Detachment (3028 Highway 35, Lindsay, 705-324-6741)
Each calendar costs $15, with proceeds going to the OPP Youth Foundation and the Friends of the OPP Museum.
The OPP Youth Foundation provides funds to disadvantaged youth throughout the province of Ontario, and the Friends of the OPP Museum is a volunteer-based charitable organization that supports, promotes, and assists in the preservation of the history of the OPP. For more information, visit oppyouthfoundation.ca and oppmuseumfriends.ca.
The OPP K9 unit was formed in 1965, at which time only three teams were trained to provide support services to all of the OPP and other law enforcement agencies across the province. There are currently 27 teams, each team consisting of a dog and a handler. There are also an additional 16 dogs trained for specific detection duties.
Each team is stationed at strategic points throughout the province, providing canine support for search and rescue, tracking wanted persons, detecting narcotics, searching for cadavers, as well as firearms, explosives and physical evidence. Canine teams are also involved in community service work, fundraising, and public demonstrations.
Jan Schoute performing with Sam Weber at the Historic Red Dog Tavern in April 2005. A celebration of the life of the much-loved Peterborough musician, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 54, will be held at 7 p.m. on Sunday, November 12 at the Red Dog in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Peterborough Jams)
Every Thursday, we publish live music and performance events at pubs and clubs in Peterborough and The Kawarthas based on information that venues provide to us directly or post on their website or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, November 9 to Wednesday, November 15.
If you’re a pub or club owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, please email our Nightlife Editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com.
Urban development often involves burying or channelizing waterways, as seen here in Peterborough where Jackson Creek flows beneath streets and buildings in the downtown core. This type of "grey" infrastructure changes the natural flow of water through these areas, causing concerns with frequent flooding. (Photo: GreenUP)
GreenUP is partnering with Trent University’s M.A. Sustainability Studies (MASS) program to bring Dr. Jennifer Drake, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Toronto, to Peterborough. Dr. Drake will speak about flood prevention and rainwater management in cities.
The talk is free, and open to the public, and will take place on Wednesday, November 15th from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Sadleir House Dining Hall.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Jenn McCallum, GreenUP Water Programs Coordinator.
Dr. Drake is an expert in urban flood management and green infrastructure. Her research specializes in emerging technologies including green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavement. Dr. Drake regularly speaks with CBC, Global TV, and CityTV when there are flood concerns in Toronto.
For her talk in Peterborough, Dr. Drake will be presenting “Daylighting Lost Rivers: Returning Natural Infrastructure to Our Cities”, which fits well with the theme of this year’s MASS colloquia series: justice. The discussion will consider the social and environmental justice issues relating to water in urban areas.
Dr. Jennifer Drake is Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Toronto. She has a Ph.D. Civil in Engineering, as well as an M.A.Sc. in Water Resource Engineering and a B.Eng in Civil Engineering and Society. Her research interests are directed towards low-impact development (LID) stormwater systems, watershed planning, and stormwater management, and the impact of LID technologies on aquatic environments, urban water security, and wet weather policy. (Photo: University of Toronto)
Flooding in urban centres is a major concern, as it causes damages to properties and infrastructure, costing homeowners and government millions for repairs and flood prevention measures. Urban development often involves burying or channelizing waterways, which changes the natural flow of water through these areas, causing concerns with frequent flooding.
For example, Jackson Creek flows under city streets through downtown Peterborough until the water empties into the Otonabee River at the corner of George and Townsend Streets. Rainwater hits solid surfaces such as asphalt and concrete, picking up dirt, garbage, and debris before flowing into the storm sewers and eventually into Jackson Creek.
When there is a high volume of rain within a short period of time, the storm sewers can become clogged, and this is when urban flooding can happen. Anyone living in Peterborough in 2002 and in 2004 will remember what that looked like. Many people had flooded basements, which had devastating financial and emotional repercussions.
Some of the damage caused by the 2004 flood in Peterborough. On July 15, 2004, a small but spectacular storm dumped more than 150 mm of rain in parts of the city in less than an hour. Mud and water poured down streets and through windows. A record flash flood washed out roads, filled underpasses, flooded basements, turned streets into rivers, and intersections into lakes. Enormous water pressure in the sewer system blew hundreds of manhole covers into the sky. Downtown Peterborough, where the rainfall was concentrated, consists of largely impervious paved surfaces, including streets that are not well designed to convey flood water over land. In addition, groundwater that seeped into cracked or misaligned sewer pipes created excess water in the system, leading to back-ups and basement flooding. All of these factors combined meant the city’s sewers simply couldn’t cope with the volume of water, resulting in sudden and severe flooding. (Photo: City of Peterborough)
To mitigate the problems associated with urbanization and changes to waterways, some cities are now pursuing practices in green infrastructure. This means using plants, gardens, and other natural strategies to slow down and absorb rainwater.
Rain barrels, green roofs, green walls, rain gardens, and permeable paving such as interlocking brick or porous concrete are examples of commonly used green infrastructure practices. Plants are also excellent features to incorporate into city spaces because their roots stabilize the soil preventing erosion, absorbing and filtering rainwater, and absorbing carbon dioxide, which produces oxygen, thus improving air quality.
In Peterborough, there is a high degree of interest in using natural spaces to capture and filter rain. The City of Peterborough has been implementing the Flood Reduction Master Plan since 2004, and is engaged in the Rethink the Rain program, which considers green options as opposed to conventional grey infrastructure (concrete, asphalt, and buried and channelized waterways).
Recently, the City of Peterborough and Otonabee Conservation helped to bring a four-day workshop on green infrastructure to Peterborough. This workshop introduced and trained many local stakeholders about the design, construction, monitoring, and maintenance of green infrastructure practices.
This fall, the GreenUP Ready for Rain Peterborough program, worked with the City of Peterborough, and local homeowners, to install eight rain gardens in the Avenues Neighbourhood. GreenUP is now moving forward with the Sustainable Urban Neighbourhoods (SUN) program to help residents of the Kawartha Heights and Curtis Creek areas consider their options for greening their neighbourhoods.
The free lecture and discussion takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15th at Sadleir House in Peterborough.
With so much interest in green infrastructure in the Peterborough area, GreenUP is excited to help bring the current and relevant research of Dr. Drake to our community through the Trent MASS program colloquium.
“Our community has been collectively working toward the inclusion of more green infrastructure for a number of years,” explains GreenUP Manager of Water Programs Heather Ray.
“Peterborough has experienced growth in the amount of knowledge and the number of demonstration sites for re-sculpting our city; recent storm water education programs, resident-led projects encouraging small changes on private properties, local training opportunities, and municipal projects are focusing on allowing water to be filtered where it falls.
“We are thrilled to partner with Trent to host Dr. Drake, a leading expert on permeable surfaces, who will share some new ideas and examples for Peterborough residents to learn from.”
The colloquium is inclusive to the Trent and Peterborough communities, connecting academic and citizen audiences together to engage with local and global sustainability issues.
Join us on November 15th to learn more about urban waterways and flood prevention and to see some successful examples of projects that can serve as examples for Peterborough to consider. We will discuss the challenges, and the social and environmental outcomes, of restoring urban waterways. It might just help you prepare for the next heavy rainfall.
Learn more about GreenUP led water programs, Ready for Rain Peterborough, and SUN at www.greenup.on.ca.
The Chamber’s Annual Awards of Excellence were presented Friday night at Elmhirst’s Resort. Chamber Board President, Cindy Windover of Windover Plumbing, congratulated the recipients as well as all who were nominated. With over 80 nominations there was a lot to celebrate!
The Chamber’s Citizen of the Year, Jennie MacKenzie, has owned and operated the Lakefield Pantry for 28 years. Long before becoming a familiar mantra, “buying local” was an important aspect of her business. Today, products from 25 local suppliers are carried in the store. For over 10 years she has been the lead organizer of the PolarFest ice carving competition in Lakefield and the Polar Paddle. Her involvement has included a multitude of other community initiatives including Imagine the Marsh, Lakefield Farmers’ Market Board, Family Paddle Day, Ladies Night Out, and more.
This year, the panel of judges elected to honour Mike and Aileen Dean with a special award for Lifetime Achievement. For decades they have been successful real estate agents, most recently with RE/MAX Eastern Realty. Their commitment to community betterment has been outstanding. Aileen actively participates in the Selwyn Women’s Institute, many years ago Mike introduced the Village of Lakefield to the concept of recycling, they have both prepared and served breakfast at Ridpath school for 12 years, and have volunteered with the Lakefield Horticultural Society helping to maintain Village gardens as well as organizing their Antique Sale & Flower Show for over 30 years.
Both awards were sponsored by RBC.
The recipients of the 2017 Awards of Excellence. Back row: Rob Howard, Kawartha Local Marketplace; Sam & Erin McLean, McLean Berry Farm; Victoria Whitney, Griffin’s Greenhouses; Angela Jones, Lakeshore Designs; Jacob Rodenburg, Camp Kawartha; Front Row: Sue Jeffries & Nikki McCue, Cross Wind Farm; Emily Ferguson, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha; Jennie MacKenzie, The Lakefield Pantry; Aileen & Mike Dean; Karen Copson, Camp Kawartha.
Recipients in the eight remaining categories are as follows:
Commercial Development or Renovation – Lakeshore Designs
Finalists: Salon Sorella & Day Spa, The Regency of Lakefield, Tribal Voices
Sponsored by BALL Real Estate Inc. Brokerage
Entrepreneur Innovation – Kawartha Local Marketplace
Finalists: Loch Eyewear, Your Body You
Sponsored by Gastles Registered Patent Agents
Not-for-Profit Excellence – Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region
Finalists: Alternatives Community Program Services, Cuddles for Cancer
Sponsored by Darling Insurance
Retailer of the Year – Cross Wind Farm
Finalists: Celtic Connection, East of Eden Antiques
Sponsored by Nexicom
Tourism/Hospitality Excellence – McLean Berry Farm
Finalists: Beachwood Resort, Lang Pioneer Village Museum, Six Foot Bay Resort
Sponsored by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development
Customer Service Excellence – Camp Kawartha
Finalists: Accurate Accounting & Tax Services, Salon Sorella & Day Spa, Tribal Voices, Village Pet Food & Supply
Sponsored by CIBC
Young Professional – Erin McLean, McLean Berry Farm
Finalists not announced.
Sponsored by Community Futures Peterborough
Outstanding Business Achievement – Griffin’s Greenhouses
Finalists: Accurate Accounting & Tax Services, BALL Real Estate
Sponsored by County of Peterborough
‘Thank You’ from the Chamber’s Citizen of the Year
Citizen of the Year, Jennie MacKenzie, shared the following ‘Thank You’ letter acknowledging her cohorts:
“I was honoured to be presented with the Citizen of the Year Award at the 2017 Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala on Friday evening. I can’t really remember what I said in my comments upon accepting the award, so if you would indulge me, I would like to make sure I thank the many people who are involved in this award.
This award is ‘Presented to an individual who has been a leader in moving the region forward and has been responsible for the improvement and well being of the business community beyond personal or business gain.’ I have been involved in many different events in and around Lakefield over the last 28 years, but as you know, it is impossible to do these things alone so I feel compelled to acknowledge my cohorts.
Firstly my husband, John. After the initial shock of ‘You want to do what?!’, he is always right there to support me and help me, often being “voluntold” as he says. I love you John and I thank you for being at my side.”
ServiceOntario Closed November 11th for Remembrance Day
The ServiceOntario office in Lakefield.
The Chamber’s ServiceOntario office at 133 Water Street in Lakefield will be closed on Saturday, November 11th for Remembrance Day.
The office will reopen on Monday, November 13th at 8:30 a.m..
Please note: the office is open until 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings, to assist with your vehicle, health card, and organ donor transactions.
Completing Your Accessibility Compliance Report
Deadline: December 31st, 2017
Businesses and non-profits with 20 or more employees and public sector organizations must complete an accessibility compliance report by December 31, 2017.
You must submit an accessibility compliance report if you are a business or non-profit organization with 20 or more employees or a designated public-sector organization.
The compliance report confirms that you have met your current accessibility requirements under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
If you don’t complete your accessibility compliance report, you could face enforcement which can include financial penalties. Read more.
Know Your Power Cobourg – November 15th
Navigating energy-efficiency programs for business
Chamber members are invited to a breakfast event on Wednesday, November 15th, to learn about energy cost-saving programs and incentives available to Ontario businesses. The event is being held at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre, 930 Burnham St., Cobourg. Registration and breakfast is at 9 a.m., and the program runs from 9:30 to 11 a.m. There is no charge to attend. Register here.
Remembrance Day Ceremonies
Remembrance Day Ceremonies are taking place in the following communities:
Wednesday, November 8th – Buckhorn Community Centre, 2-3 p.m.
Saturday, November 11th – Aspley Legion, 11 a.m.
Saturday, November 11th – Curve Lake Cenotaph, 10:30 a.m.
Saturday, November 11th – Lakefield Cenotaph, 11 a.m.
Saturday, November 11th – Warsaw Cenotaph, 10:45 a.m.
History Comes to Life at Lansdowne Place with Lang Pioneer Village
Tribute to Canada’s Military History, November 8th at Lansdowne Place
On Wednesday, November 8th, Lansdowne Place and Lang Pioneer Village Museum invite the residents of Peterborough and the Kawarthas to visit a Remembrance Week tribute to Canada’s military history over the last two centuries.
To commemorate our country’s past, students from the Norwood District High School and the East Northumberland Secondary School will be dressed in authentic reproduction uniforms from a variety of military conflicts that took place in Canada in the 19th Century.
The public is encouraged to join them in Centre Court, located on the lower level of the Shopping Centre, to learn about the War of 1812, the Fenian Raids, the 57th Battalion “Peterborough Rangers” Militia circa 1885 and much more. Read more.
Lakefield Herald Presents MacKinley Oliver, Delusionist – November 17th
“Delusionist” MacKinley Oliver will perform at 8 p.m. on Friday, November 10th at the Lakefield Legion (10 Nicholls St., Lakefield).
Tickets are $20, available at the door or in advance at the Lakefield Herald office (64 Bridge St., Lakefield).
Upcoming Santa Claus Parades
Apsley
The Apsley Lions Club is hosting the annual Santa Claus Parade and Christmas Party on Saturday, November 25th. The parade begins at 6 p.m. at the Apsley Public School, continues along Burleigh Street to Wellington, then along Jack Lake Road to the North Kawartha Community Centre, where the festivities ensue. Inside the North Kawartha Community Centre, refreshments are served along with “Loot” bags for kids 10 and under.
Lakefield
The Lakefield & District Lions Club’s annual Lakefield Santa Claus Parade is taking place on Sunday, November 19th beginning at 1 p.m.. Float registration is at the Lakefield Legion from 12 to 12:45 p.m.. Food items will be collected for the Lakefield Food Bank along the parade route. The Lakefield Lioness Lions will also be collecting toys for the toy drive.
Warsaw
The Township of Douro-Dummer will be hosting the annual Santa Claus parade on Saturday, November 25th in the hamlet of Warsaw. The parade will begin at 5 p.m. at the Warsaw Public Works garage and continue through the village. The theme this year is “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Following the parade will be a tree lighting ceremony held in the gazebo next to the Town Hall in Warsaw.
Upcoming Events
Buckhorn Autumn Dinner Theatre – November 10th-12th
Abuse Prevention of Older Adults, Lakefield – November 10th
Christmas Bazaar at Regency of Lakefield – November 18th
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.
Hosted by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development along with the Innovation Cluster, the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Funding Forum on November 21st features an exhibitor showcase as well as four 45-minute break-out sessions, each featuring a panel presentation on a specific topic including digital, angel investment, small business, and tourism. At last year's funding forum, Innovation Cluster President & CEO Michael Skinner, who is also an angel investor, addresses one of the panels. (Photo: Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development)
Ask anyone who has started and subsequently guided his or her own business to great success, and you’ll learn that a dream of the entrepreneurial variety anchored that gutsy journey.
But lurking, as it always does, was the reality of the financial side of things. It’s one thing to have an idea, but it’s quite another to come up with the dollars that will make it a reality.
With that well in mind, Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) along with the Innovation Cluster are hosting the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Funding Forum.
Set for Tuesday, November 21st from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club (1030 Armour Rd., Peterborough), admission is free but registration at ptbokawarthasfundingforum.eventbrite.ca is encouraged.
The purpose of the forum is to provide entrepreneurs with an opportunity to find out about all the programs — including funding — available for their business. As well as an exhibitor showcase, the forum includes four break-out sessions related to business funding.
“We have a lot of business owners who come through the Business Advisory Centre and the Innovation Cluster looking for financial resources to make their business goal a reality,” explains Cara Walsh, Corporate Communications Officer with PKED.
“This event brings financial resources and funding programs together in a one-stop shop for business owners. Between the exhibitors being there and the break-out sessions that speak to individual industry topics, it’s meant to make it easier to figure out what funding opportunities are available to business owners and what the right steps are to take to secure funding.”
Each 45-minute break-out session will feature a panel presentation on a specific topic: “Funding for Digital Startups”, “Angel Investment for Startups”, “Small Business – Tips For Successfully Securing Funding”, and “Funding To Create Unforgettable Visitor Events And Experiences.”
While the make-up of each panel is still being finalized, Walsh says there will be representation from organizations across economic sectors, including: the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sport; Regional Tourism Organization 8 (RTO8); the Ontario Arts Council; TD Bank Group; Business Development Bank of Canada; Community Futures Peterborough, and the Peterborough Region Angels Network … to name a few.
The Peterborough & the Kawarthas Funding Forum provides entrepreneurs with an opportunity to find out about all the programs, including funding, available for their business. (Photo: Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development)
The digital session will speak to the growth of the digital sector — including information and communications technology, software as a service, augmented and virtual reality, and more — and the opportunities this growing field presents. The panel will feature experts in financing and intellectual property matters who will speak on how to find the right funding and when to begin seeking it out.
“Hyper-growth, innovative companies require different types of capital at different stages,” says Michael Skinner, President & CEO of the Innovation Cluster. “By attending the sessions on digital funding and angel investment, entrepreneurs will hopefully be able to proactively determine what stage they are at and what their capital requirements would be.”
In the second panel, an angel investor, a venture capitalist, and a lawyer will lend their voices to smart money for startups. This session will explain the difference between angel and venture capital investment and include advice on when to pitch for investment and what to expect.
“Having a better understanding of what to expect and who the major players are as an innovation and technology startup will make the process of securing funding much easier,” notes Skinner, who is also an angel investor.
“The Funding Forum is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to speak with organizations and funders in a supportive and encouraging environment,” Skinner adds, explaining that it allows them to feel inspired to ask any question and connect with each organization.
The small business session will answer questions around securing funding, whether a grant or loan, and how to use this funding to achieve success.
Finally, the tourism session will benefit business owners with an idea for an engaging experience or a memorable event they want to develop or grow.
“Tourism is an important sector of our local economy and is an important part of the work we do at Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development,” Walsh says, explaining the reason for a dedicated session on tourism.
The Peterborough & the Kawarthas Funding Forum takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, November 21st at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club. The event is free. (Graphic: Innovation Cluster / Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development)
The free event will not only inform business owners about available financial resources and programs, but also provide a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect directly with funders.
“A lot of our clients come in knowing they need financial resources to start up their business but don’t necessarily know where to go to get them,” Walsh explains. “Participants will walk away having actually made a connection with someone at those funding agencies, which is key. Having someone to bounce your idea off of in advance of applying for funding is very helpful.”
Walsh also explains that the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Funding Forumis a natural extension of the discussion generated at last year’s Spotlight On Small Business event.
“We had a number of local entrepreneurs speak at that event but this year we’re focusing on the funding aspect. This is something that each organization’s clients are identifying as a need.
“It’s a good opportunity for people to come out and learn a little bit about the funding options that are out there and also how to best pitch their ideas for funding.”
Through art and discussion, the Precarious Festival explores the economic uncertainy faced by working artists. Pictured is one of the festival organizers, Ryan Kerr, performing his Abstraction No. 129 1/2 during Peterborough DanceWorks on November 3rd. (Photo: Andy Carroll)
Precarity – a precarious existence, lacking in predictability, job security, material or psychological welfare. The social class defined by this condition has been termed the precariat.
Already in full swing, local arts organizations are participating in the Precarious Festival, a look at the delicate economic situation faced by local artists living and working in Peterborough.
Throughout the month of November and early December, the Precarious Festival brings together a number of local groups — including Fleshy Thud, Artspace, Trent Radio, Nourish Peterborough, The Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, Trent Community Research Centre, Electric City Culture Council, Evans Contemporary, and Public Energy — as a way to open discussion between local artists of all disciplines through a number of events including art installations, panel discussions, dance performances, coffee houses, theatrical performances, public art displays, mentorships, and other events.
Precarious Festival organizers Kate Story and Ryan Kerr. (Photo: Sam Tweedle / kawarthaNOW.com)
Building off of last year’s successful Bernie Martin Festival, the Precarious Festival is the brainchild of Kate Story and Ryan Kerr of The Theatre on King (TTOK). They came up with the idea after talking to local art workers while looking for a potential theme for the second city-wide festival.
“Basically we had the Bernie Martin Festival and we thought it went really well, so we wanted to do something like that again,” Kate says. “We went around talking to different artists to get a sense of what a theme might be, and the word that everybody seemed to be using was ‘precarious.’ That’s how people are feeling.”
Although many factors play into the theme of “precarious” within the festival, a large part of the focus is the fact that most working artists are not able to make a livable income from their art, and changes within our city are making this even more difficult.
“Peterborough is really at a crossroads,” says Kate. “For a long time Peterborough was an industrial town and the core got hollowed out. It didn’t work in terms of employment levels, but it meant that there was a lot of cheap rent in the downtown core. But now with the 407 extension and the move to gentrify the downtown, that could change things.
“There’s all these people that get excited about these one-roof projects, but I think that they should stop trying to organize us and put us in a ghetto. Just let us live and work where we want to live and work. All we need is financial support or rent that’s affordable. It’s hard to make a case for this for some reason, which is mysterious to me. Governments will put a huge amount of money into business. They’ll subsidize businesses, subsidize mining, and even subsidize banks.
A performance of “when I think of her” by Victoria Mohr-Blakeney featuring Sylvie Dasne and Rachael Cardiello during Peterborough DanceWorks on November 3rd. (Photo by Andy Carroll)
“But for some reason to give money to the arts, or even giving grants to artists, is like a hand out. You have to be so accountable for that money. I don’t have any problem with that. I just think that bankers should have to be just as accountable for that money as artists are. I have a lot of feelings about that.”
“A lot of people who show up to Peterborough know that there is a great arts scene,” adds Ryan. “It’s just that the arts scene isn’t supported.”
“We’re far enough away from Toronto that we don’t just go there, but we’re small enough so we’re excited when new artists come into town,” Kate says. “We’re large enough to create and interesting and varied scenes, and there is a lot of collaboration that happens here. But I think, again, with this looming gentrification we are looking at a precarious situation right now. I would love to see this city get more behind the support of the arts, and a more sophisticated understanding of the arts and economy.
“And I’m not just saying that the arts is important just because of economic impact. But that’s the language we have to use when talking to some of these people. Every study shows that part of having a healthy community is having a healthy arts scene. Yet somehow it seems difficult to sell this idea.”
At the centre of the Precarious Festival is an online survey created by the Electric City Culture Council, which is aiming to collect data about working artists living in Peterborough and the surrounding areas. The first of its kind, the survey can be taken at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XNHGHH8.
Naomi DuVall completes the Peterborough Artist Survey at a survey station located at the Sapphire Room during the Precarious Festival launch. Electric City Culture Council is collecting data from working artists living in Peterborough and the surrounding areas. (Photo: Andy Carroll)
“There has never been a survey done of Peterborough artists,” Kate points out. “A lot of blood, sweat, and tears went into getting this thing up. A lot of the data is demographics to compare the makeup of our local population, but it’s also about economics as well. It’s about how much money that you make in a year, and how much money is in your arts practice, and how much money is spent on your art.
“This survey is a vital thing to have people to fill out, because the data will give us the information we need to make a case for support to the city, to the province, and to the federal government as well.”
While advocating for economic viability for local artists is an objective of the Precarious Festival — and there are several discussions and talks during the festival on this topic — it’s also about presenting art.
There are far too many individual events to cover here (see the Precarious Festival website at ttok.ca/precarious-festival/ for a listing of all the events), but I want to highlight three brand new locally created theatrical performances making their debut during the festival.
The first of these performances, titled Neighbours/Voisons, is presented by the Ring O’Rosie Collective at Artspace. Developed by Lillian Ross-Millard, Miranda Jones, and Anne White, Neighbours/Voisons is inspired by Norman McLaren’s 1952 stop-motion animation film using live actors called Neighbours. Running at ten minutes in length, the performers will present the piece multiple times over the course of the evening.
VIDEO: Neighbours by Norman McLaren (1952)
“Neighbours/Voisons explores conflict, interiors, and the challenge of real bodies moving in stop motion,” explains Ring O’Rosie’s Miranda Jones. “It’s going to be a little bit chaotic, and we encourage people to stay and see the second performance because you’ll never catch everything otherwise. Its ten minutes long and runs on a loop every ten minutes.”
Neighbours/Voisons will be performed at Artspace in ten minute cycles from 6 to 8 p.m. on November 13th and 14th, and from 12 to 2 p.m. on November 15th. Admission is $10 or pay what you can.
On Sunday, November 26th, Eryn Lidster presents an original piece called Invisible at TTOK, which explores the backstage work often unseen by theatre audiences. Eryn is a familiar face in the theatre community and Invisible is her first directorial work. Working on a framework developed by Eryn, the piece has come together through the input and improvisation of her actors ( Lindsay Unterlander, Dan Smith, Samuelle Weatherdon, and Robyn Smith) during rehearsals.
“When I think about precarity, I think about the collaborative nature of the backstage work,” explains Eryn. “But getting all the people in the same room at the same time can be difficult because we are all so busy. We’re trying to support all these theatre projects, but that can be difficult from an economic standpoint — to support yourself and these projects.
“I’m trying to put in some of the funny stuff — like when you are working so hard that you often get sick — and I think some of those issues come into question, like whether or not this kind of working environment creates good art. But there is a flip side to it too, and that’s all of the beautiful things that happens as part of the backstage theatre that the audience doesn’t get to see. There’s some really amazing moments that only the cast and the people involved in it get to experience.”
Invisible will be performed at TTOK from November 26 to 28th at 8 pm. Admission is $15 or pay what you can.
Lindy and Kelsey Gordon Powell dressed up in rat costumes created by Laurel Paluck during Peterborough DanceWorks on November 3rd. One of the theatrical pieces during the Precarious Festival is Kate Story’s “Festivus Rattus 2035”, a post-apocalyptic retelling of the Pied Piper of Hamelin as a metaphor for the underpaid and undervalued artist. (Photo by Andy Carroll)
Finally, on Thursday, November 30th, The Nervous System presents a new show written by Kate Story called Festivus Rattus 2035. A post-apocalyptic retelling of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, Festivus Rattus 2035 features Brad Brackenridge, Sylvie Dasne, Naomi Duvall, Derek Bell, Rob Fortin, Ryan Kerr, Shannon McKenzie, Mike Moring, Susan Newman, and Robyn Smith.
“Fairy tales are always interesting because they can be used on so many levels as a narrative,” Kate says of her new show. “In all the versions I read of the Pied Piper, the promise of money to the piper that is then taken away is quite accurate. A specific number is always mentioned: fifty thousand florins, then a thousand florin, then five florins. So I find that the money is kind of the key.
“But then he takes the children, which is quite creepy. So I was wondering if the story is kind of a grizzly warning of what happens if the artist doesn’t get paid. On some psychological level, I feel our society is quite like that. If we think of children as a metaphor for our community, I do feel that by not supporting the arts we are robbing ourselves of our own sense of community.”
Festivus Rattus 2035 runs from November 30th to December 2nd at TTOK. Shows start at 8 p.m., with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, November 2nd. Note that the show has strong themes and is not recommended for young audiences.
Throught the theatrical presentations, art installations, panels, talks and other events during the Precarious Festival, Ryan and Kate hope that a solid discourse about the fragile economical state of our artistic community can be created by both artists and the greater community.
“A lot of artists, such as visual artists, might not see anybody for a week or two,” Ryan says. “Working in isolation make you feel that nobody understands and nobody gets you. But at the same time, having a discussion where you realize you’re not the only one having these problems, and that you are not alone, is very empowering, and makes you take a different look at your work.
“If you’re working all depressed, it’s probably going to show in your work. But if you know that you’re not alone, then you know there is hope.”
The Precarious Festival runs until December 2nd with events happening throughout the downtown core. For a full calendar of events, visit the Precarious Festival website at ttok.ca/precarious-festival/.
This month, food writer Eva Fisher explores where to buy fresh pasta in Peterborough, including The Pasta Shop that offers a variety of flavours of fresh and dried pasta including spinach. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW.com)
This month, food writer Eva Fisher explores locally made fresh pasta and incredible olive oil. She finds a workshop opportunity that dedicated foodies won’t want to miss, and checks in at a new restaurant that raises money for emergency services.
It’s hard to beat the incredible flavour and texture of freshly made pasta and, in Peterborough, there are plenty of varieties to choose from.
Kevin and Anna Lisa Breese of The Pasta Shop (165 Sherbrooke St., Peterborough, 705-745-6080) make fresh pasta every day with the help of their three sons. The family-run business can cut fettucini, linguine, spaghetti, spaghettini, and angelhair pasta on command. They also make rigatoni, a pigtail pasta and shells. In addition to selling it fresh or dried, they use their fresh pasta to make lasagna and canneloni and they sell homemade sauces including roasted red pepper.
Anna Lisa Breese of The Pasta Shop tosses a fresh batch of tomato basil pasta. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW.com)
The Pasta Shop also makes custom specialty pastas in many different flavours: dijon mustard, roasted pumpkin and squash, spinach, tomato basil, lemon lime black pepper, and roasted beet. All of their pastas are made with no added colours or preservatives.
When cooking with these pastas, Anna Lisa recommends a subtle sauce that will allow the flavour of the pasta to shine.
“You don’t want to mask it with sauce, so I’d recommend a white wine or olive oil or butter sauce with garlic and some chicken, fish or beef. You can also cook it in a stirfry, serve it as a side or just serve it plain with parmesan cheese.”
One Fine Food offers a variety of fresh pasta options in their marketplace. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawathaNOW.com)
One Fine Foods (800 Erskine Avenue, Peterborough, 705-742-6200) also sells fresh pasta in a variety of styles.
They use it to make crab and mascarpone ravioli, parmesan gnocchi, lasagna, canneloni, rigatoni, bacon macaroni and cheese.
In addition to their pastas, they have sauces including alfredo, vodka sauce, a signature homestyle sauce and a vegetarian sauce, and they offer pork and beef meatballs.
Pasta Plus (193 Simcoe Street Unit 9, Peterborough, 705-749-9077) is another must-visit pasta spot.
Proprietor Lucia DeLuca offers fresh pasta including fettucini, linguine, spaghetti, spaghettini, and angelhair and rotini.
She also prepares lasagna, and a variety of manicotti from scratch, and makes sauces including tomato sauce, cream sauce and what many describe as the best pesto in town. I had heard it myself, but when I brought it up with Lucia she was humble.
“I’ve heard a number of people say that, so I’m really thankful for that.”
Olive oil tasting with Delectable Fine Foods offers exciting flavour profiles
Delectable Fine Foods offers regular olive oil tastings. (Photo: Delectable Fine Foods)
Not all olive oil is made the same. Spicy, bitter, fruity, smooth, maybe with notes of almond or hazelnut: a good quality olive oil can have incredible flavour complexity.
Delectable Fine Foods (550 Lansdowne St., Peterborough, 705-750-1200) offers regular olive oil tastings to introduce customers to the incredible diversity of flavours. They regularly stock a variety of over a dozen olive oils, including oil from Italy, Spain, France, and Australia.
According to owner Christel Rumgay, over 700 varieties of olive can be used to make olive oil. Different olives yield different flavour profiles. The time of harvest also has a huge influence on the final product.
“Olives harvested early produce a stronger more robust flavoured olive oil often with a peppery finish. Late harvest olives produce a much more delicate flavoured olive oil, which is often described as fruity and smooth. Everyone has different taste preferences and many people have never experienced an early harvest robust oil. They are surprised by the spiciness.”
The selection at Delectable Fine Foods includes this oil, made exclusively with olives from trees dating back to before 1492. (Photo: Delectable Fine Foods)
Delectable Fine Foods offers an exciting variety of oils. These include single varietal oils and blends. One oil is made exclusively with olives from trees that are over 500 years old. Another is from a mill once owned by the son of Christopher Columbus.
Although some of Delectable Fine Foods’ olive oils have great stories, it’s the flavour that will leave you wanting more. Christel has lots of suggestions.
“I love a loaf of crusty bread and a really good olive oil to dip it in. Or fresh salad greens lightly tossed with a robust oil. We also carry a blood orange infused olive oil that is amazing drizzled over roasted beets. I love olive oil with a fresh bufala burrata and fresh cracked pepper, or drizzled over white fish, truffle oil drops on top of my homemade cream of mushroom soup…”
She could go on, but I recommend discussing it with her or her staff in person.
Delectable Fine Foods is open seven days a week. To stay up to date with tastings and events, visit their website at delectablefinefoods.ca or follow them on Facebook.
You can start a food co-op! Farms at Work workshop will show you how
Join Farms at Work and Local Food and Farm Co-ops for a workshop on December 8th that will teach you about starting your own food co-op. (Image: Local Food and Farm Co-ops)
Have you ever dreamed of starting your own food co-op? Farms at Work (270 George St., Peterborough, 705-743-7671) is offering a workshop on Friday, December 8th from 1 to 4 p.m. that will teach you to do just that.
Farms at Work is a non-profit charitable project with a mission: to create a vibrant rural community and ensure that farmland is used productively, especially for growing food.
You don’t have to be a farmer to start a food co-op. Pat Learmonth, Director of Farms at Work, explains.
“This workshop is intended to provide farmers and food people. It could be anyone in the food system that thinks that they might be interested in working cooperatively with others in the food system.”
That could be grain farmers working together to market their grains and setting up a mill to make flour, or it could be farmers deciding to set up a cooperative farm structure. It could even be a buying group, such as the Ontario Natural Food Co-op.
“The cooperative structure can have many different purposes. We just want people to have a chance to understand what co-ops are and how they might go about creating one, but their ideas would be their own.”
Pat is hoping that the workshop will develop into some exciting new projects. “The possibilities are unlimited and I want people to come to this with their own ideas.”
The event will feature a presentation by Peggy Baillie of Local Food and Farm Co-ops.
To sign up for this $15 workshop, visit Eventbrite page. Farms at Work offers programming year round, and there will be more workshops offered throughout the winter. To stay up to date, follow Farms at Work on Facebook or sign up for their e-newsletter on their website.
10-12! Welcome to Firehouse Subs
Area representative Alex Gerzon and franchisee Jason Taylor of Firehouse Subs, a new chain restaurant to Peterborough that raises funds to benefit emergency personnel. (Photo: Eva Fisher / kawarthaNOW.com)
Firehouse Subs (1005 Lansdowne St., Peterborough, 705-748-3473) has come to Peterborough. Franchisee Jason Taylor opened the restaurant in partnership with local hockey legend Cory Stillman on November 6th.
The firehouse-themed sub chain started in a fire station in Jacksonville, Florida. Brothers Robin and Chris Sorensen were both firefighters and they would make subs at the station before starting their first shop, which would ultimately grow into a franchise of over 1,000 locations. The Peterborough restaurant is the 13th location in Canada.
Firehouse Subs boasts a hefty portion of meat and cheese on their sandwiches. Jason says that that’s a key reason why he bought into the franchise.
“We have hearty and flavourful food. On a medium sub you get a quarter pound of meat. On a large sub you get a half a pound of meat. It’s all steamed, so that heats up the meat, brings out all of the natural flavours in the meat, and it melts the cheese. Then we serve it on a freshly toasted bun with fresh cold produce.”
The restaurant hasn’t lost touch with its firehouse roots. Firehouse Subs actively raises funds for The Public Safety Foundation, an in-house charity that gives grants to first responders throughout Canada for lifesaving equipment and training.
The Peterborough location is decorated with archival photographs and vintage equipment from Peterborough Fire. The staff also uses the emergency code 10-12 to announce that a new visitor has entered the shop. When they hear a 10-12, every staff member yells “Welcome to Firehouse!”
Area representative Alex Gerzon says that that welcome is part of what makes the franchise special.
“We make a special sandwich. After one bite people love it. But I’ll tell you, what’s really wowing people is the service, the genuine hospitality.”
Thirteen Moons Wellness, whose owner Louise Racine was the driving force behind the inaugural International Women's Day Conference Peterborough in 2017, is hosting the second annual conference that takes place Wednesday, March 8, 2018 at Ashburnham Reception Centre on Armour Road. (Graphic: International Women's Day Conference Peterborough)
After a successful inaugural event in March 2017, the International Women’s Day Conference is returning to Peterborough again in 2018.
Regularly priced tickets are on sale for the conference, which takes place from 8 a.m to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8, 2018 (International Women’s Day) at Ashburnham Reception Centre on Armour Road. Early bird tickets are now sold out.
Thirteen Moons Wellness — whose owner Louise Racine was the driving force behind the first conference — will be hosting the second annual conference, which has the theme “Engage. Share. Empower.”
The focus of the event is to provide an opportunity for women to engage in learning, share triumphs and struggles, and ultimately, empower women so they can continue to thrive as they play important roles in our families, workplaces, and communities.
Feminist comic and actor Candy Palmater (left, with her back to the camera) was one of the keynote speakers at Peterborough’s first International Women’s Day Conference on March 8, 2017 and received a standing ovation from the 150 women attending the sold-out event, including Louise Racine of Thirteen Moons Wellness (centre) who was the driving force behind the inaugural conference. (Photo: Jeanne Pengelly / kawarthaNOW.com)
“This conference will bring women together for an entire day to be inspired and empowered to take action to reach their personal and professional goals,” says Racine, who is the International Women’s Day conference committee chair.
“The speaker topics and interactive workshops have been selected to address a wide range of women’s issues including financial independence, self-care strategies for mental health, building resilience, and creating meaningful community connections.”
Speakers for the 2018 conference are Samra Zafar (human rights activist, scholar, author, and social entrepreneur), Linda Silver Dranoff (lawyer, author, and activist), and Judy Croon (comedian, motivational speaker, radio host, Second City standup coach, and author).
Speakers for the 2018 conference are Samra Zafar (human rights activist, scholar, author, and social entrepreneur), Linda Silver Dranoff (lawyer, author, and activist), and Judy Croon (comedian, motivational speaker, radio host, Second City standup coach, and author).
In between speaker presentations, attendees will also get to participate in two facilitated 75-minute workshops from six available sessions: Taming the Busy Mind, Building Resilience, Personal Finance, Courageous Conversations, Creating your Community, and Reclaiming our Bodies.
The regular ticket price for the 2018 conference is $145+HST but, for a limited period of 10 days (November 7th to 17th), registrants can get tickets for $125+HST — a $20 discount off the regular price(early bird tickets are sold out). Tickets include attendance at the conference (including three keynote speakers and two workshops), lunch, and refreshments during the day.
This event is open to the public and don’t delay as there are a limited number of tickets available and last year’s conference quickly sold out.
To reserve your tickets and for complete details about the conference details (including speaker biographies, session descriptions, and the conference agenda), visit the International Women’s Day Peterborough website www.iwdptbo.ca.
You can also follow International Women’s Day Peterborough on Twitter and Facebook for updates and announcements.
Some of the more than 2,000 hand-crafted poppies volunteers have installed on the Constable Thomas Kehoe Memorial Bridge across the York River in Bancroft. (Photo: Hospice North Hastings / Facebook)
Local volunteers have covered the bridge in the town of Bancroft with more than 2,000 hand-crafted poppies in honour of Remembrance Day.
Knittervention, a group associated with Hospice North Hastings, created the poppies that have been installed on the Constable Thomas Kehoe Memorial Bridge across the York River. The bridge, formerly called the Station Street Bridge, was renamed in 2015 to honour a local police officer and World War I veteran who was killed by a drunk driver in 1929.
“The poppy is such an important symbol to us as Canadians,” says Hospice North Hastings coordinator Heather Brough. “It reminds us of the sacrifices made so that we can have freedoms that others don’t, so that we can have hope for our future and so that we can know peace. Each poppy was created with personal reflections and personal meaning put into each and every stitch.”
This is not the first community project by the Knittervention group, which was formed in 2016 through a grant from New Horizons for Seniors. Last May, the group to crafted pieces to cover the front of the Bancroft Village Playhouse to welcome visitors to the town during the summer season. The project was so well received that the group decided to work on another project with a Remembrance Day theme.
A close up some of the hand-crafted poppies, which will remain on display on the bridge until Monday, November 13, 2017. (Photo: Hospice North Hastings / Facebook)
The Knittervention group wanted the poppies to be on display for the week before Remembrance Day, so volunteers installed the poppies on the bridge on Sunday (November 5). The cold and rainy day reminded the participants of the terrible conditions endured by Canadian soldiers in the trenches during World War I.
Riverstone Retirement Residence and the Métis Nation also participated in the project. Hospice North Hastings and the Knittervention volunteers also recognize the support of the Town of Bancroft, The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 181, Reverend Lynn Watson, and all those who donated poppies, yarn, and support for the project.
Volunteers installed the poppies on a cold and rainy November day, reminding them of the terrible conditions endured by Canadian soldiers in the trenches during World War I. (Photo: Hospice North Hastings / Facebook)
The poppies will remain on display on the bridge until Monday, November 13th.
“This is a time for us to really reflect on what’s happening in the world and in our community,” Brough says. “We hope that people find this art installation as inspiring as we do.”
If you live in the Bancroft area and are interested in joining the Knittervention group, it meets each Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Vintage on Hastings (67 Hastings St. N., Bancroft). Everyone is welcome at the weekly gathering.
Peterborough musician Jan Schoute, seen here performing during "Live & Local Lunches" in downtown Peterborough, has passed away suddenly at the age of 54. (Photo: Peterborough DBIA)
Family, friends, fans and fellow musicians have been posting messages of both grief and love on social media following news yesterday (November 6) of the sudden passing of Peterborough musician Jan Schoute at the age of 54.
Schoute was a well-known and beloved performer who was the lead guitarist for local band Jericho’s Wall, which played every Saturday night at the Historic Red Dog Tavern in downtown Peterborough for 15 years. He also performed in The Tony Silvestri Band among many others.
Schoute’s body was discovered after he failed to show up for a rehearsal for the upcoming fundraising concert for musician Rick Young, who is undergoing treatment for cancer. The cause of death will be determined by autopsy, but a heart attack is suspected. The musician’s final Facebook post was made on the evening of Friday, November 3rd and reads “friends … what a fun night at McThirstys last night! let’s do that again.”
Jan Schoute’s final post on his Facebook page from Friday, November 3.
After learning of his death, Schoute’s family, friends, and fellow musicians have been posting comments on social media to remember and honour him.
“Words can’t describe how much we’ll miss you,” writes Gailie Young. “Thank you for everything Jano.”
“One of the dearest friends I’ve known and one of the greatest singers I’ve known,” writes Ryan Weber of The Weber Brothers, who also posted the video below. “His influence on me is immense and is surpassed in my heart only by his love and my love for him.”
VIDEO: “Mull Of Kintyre” performed by Getting Better with Jan Schoute
“Catch you on the flip side Bro…And Thank You for the musical memories over the years… Miss you Jano,” writes Jerome Levon Avis.
“Very sad news today. RIP my good friend Jan Schoute,” writes Andrew Shedden.
“I have just lost one of my dearest friends and longtime bandmate of 20 + years,” writes Terry Guiel. “I love you Jan Schoute and will miss you greatly.”
Jan Shoute (second from left) with members of Jericho’s Wall (Brent Bailey, J Bruce Francis, Terry Guiel, and Derek McKendrick)
“RIP Jan Schoute. I’m completely shocked,” writes Shaune Walt.
“Probably the most amazing human I have ever had the pleasure to play with ever has died and this hurts,” writes Craig McEachern. “I hope he knows how important he is to many. Jan Schoute…man you are amazing Dude.”
“Rest easy Jan Schoute. It was great finally having a brother — if only for a few years,” writes Wray Ellis, who also wrote a song (below) as a tribute to his friend.
VIDEO: “Be Free” by Wray Ellis (a tribute to Jan Schoute)
“RIP Jan Schoute,” writes Sue Tyler. “To all my friends in Peterborough know I am thinking of you and sending my love.”
“I am heartbroken,” writes Kate Suhr. “Love you to the moon and beyond Jan Schoute.”
A celebration of Jan’s life of Jan Schoute was held last night (November 6) at The Black Horse Pub (452 George St. N., Peterborough).
“Back from the impromptu wake for Jan Schoute … feeling mortal and blown away by the passion (and quality) brought to the music that spontaneously erupted at the Crash and Burn at the Black Horse tonight,” writes JP Hovercraft. “Jan would have loved it so much. Someone said, ‘That’s the way musicians heal.’, and I think they’re right. No Dixiland music, but the feel was New Orleans funeral 100%. Just make damn sure I get one this good! ‘Laughing just to keep from crying …'”
A post shared by Marlon Hazlewood Photographer (@hazlewoodimages) on
Another celebration of the life of Jan Schoute will take place at the Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough) on Sunday, November 12th beginning at 7 p.m. The event will include a musical celebration, open mic format, with one song per performer. People are asked to bring printed photos of Schoute that will be on display during the event and then will be given to his family.
Admission will be a $10 donation at the door, with proceeds going to the Schoute family (he left behind two children). More information is available on Facebook.
Schoute’s funeral will be held on Tuesday, November 14th at 1 p.m. at Living Hope Church (1 Consumers Place, Peterborough, 705-740-9293). The public is invited to attend the funeral.
There will also be a visitation taking place on Monday, November 13th from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. at Comstock-Kaye Life Celebration Centre (356 Rubidge St., Peterborough, 705-745-4683).
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