Who hasn’t wondered, at least fleetingly, what it would be like if they gave up their job?

Studies show that at least half of us in our 50s have had almost a dozen jobs, and three-quarters of Generation Xers are likely to go back to school at least once in their lifetimes to prepare for a new career. Millennials expect to change careers three times before retirement.

Change is the new normal. But defining that next goal can be a bigger challenge than we think. In fact, it can be so big that we avoid it altogether — and stay put in a situation that is ill-suited to us.

Enter Sarah Vermunt, career coach and author, who helps others sculpt lives they long to live, rather than long to leave.

The owner of Careergasm, a web-savvy online and personal coaching business, Vermunt is set to bring her empowering message to the International Women’s Day conference hosted by the Peterborough Women’s Business Network.

“We walk around with these stories in our heads about what we have to do and what we should do,” she says. “They’re these big blown-up stories that may have absolutely nothing to do with what we really want to do.”

Vermunt knows. She was three-quarters of the way through her PhD at Wilfrid Laurier University’s business school. She was teaching a course on Workplace Psychology, which she loved.

What she didn’t love was research. Vermunt says she started hating the work so much that she simply couldn’t do it anymore.

“Some of the scariest decisions are often the best ones,” Vermunt says now, laughing as she remembers how she “instantly” felt better after telling her PhD advisor she was “opting out” of the program.

She says she was also surprised at how much support she found. But it was that immediate sense of relief once Vermunt had chosen a well-suited path — as a career coach — that reminds her of the value of self-awareness.

VIDEO: Sarah Vermunt talks about “informational interviews” on Cityline

Her clients come to her confused, and sometimes not even knowing what they want. They fear change. They assume they must take a financial risk to make a change. They invariably have physical ailments that require regular physiotherapy or massage or acupuncture.

Or worse. Much worse. Broken relationships, depression, exhaustion.

Vermunt empowers her clients by playing with them. She says a playful approach helps encourage creative thinking.

“I ask people to remember things they loved when they were a kid,” she says.

“I play a game of hot and cold with my clients. I ask them to think about people they admire. We look for clues to the ingredients a client needs in their career. And then we strategize about how to get there.”

“I see the lost souls who have no idea what they want,” Vermunt adds, “people who really don’t know what they want, and then people who know what they want and are afraid to admit it.”

Vermunt characterizes some of her clients as ambitious, intelligent women, “women who can get stuff done.”

Yet she says, far too often we focus on too much, or the wrong things.

“Sometimes the simplest questions lead to the most profound answers,” she advises.

Start by focusing on a few things that feel good. Scrap the goals that don’t feel good. Pursue the ones that do.

“This is enlightened ambition,” Vermunt says. “Focus intently on a couple of things and everything will feel easier and lighter. Dropping a goal can feel scary. But it can be incredibly empowering.”

If you’ve been toying with a career change, you’ll want to hear Vermunt’s “BS-free career advice” at the International Women’s Day Conference Peterborough. It’s almost sold out! For more information about the conference and to register, visit www.iwdptbo.ca.

After almost 28 years of service to the local community, Northumberland United Way CEO Lynda Kay has announced she plans to retire at the end of May 2017.

Kay joined the Northumberland United Way in 1989 after moving to Cobourg in the early 1980s. Over the course of her tenure, the organization has raised more than $20 million in contributions for the Northumberland community.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to lead this organization,” Kay says. “Through our tremendous staff, volunteers, and community partners, and through the generosity of our many donors, we have substantially increased the capacity of local programs and services that support the residents of Northumberland County to lead better lives.”

Kay was the driving force behind the annual “Day of Caring” in Northumberland, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. While she was CEO, Furthermore, Northumberland United Way took the lead in establishing the Food 4 All Warehouse (now operated by Northumberland County), launched the annual Backpack for Kids program to provide school supplies to children in need, helped to expand the 211 helpline to Northumberland, and implemented the “Community Matters” and “Action for Community Change” projects.

Most recently, the Northumberland United Way took possession of its own building at 62 Swayne Street — a long-time dream for Kay — as the result of the single largest donation ever made to the organization ($450,000 donation from a local citizen).

Kay has also served the community in other roles over the years. Currently a member of the Northumberland Hills Hospital Board, Kay was Past President of the Rotary Club of Cobourg, Past Chair of the Town of Cobourg Civic Awards, Past President of the Port Hope Chamber of Commerce, and Past Director for the Northumberland Chamber of Commerce. She was also a member of the committees that raised funds for the construction of both the Northumberland Hills Hospital and the Cobourg Community Centre.

In 2012, Kay received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, awarded to Canadians who have dedicated themselves to service to their fellow citizens, their community and their country. She is also a recipient of the Town of Cobourg’s Mayor’s Award of Distinction, as well as Northumberland Today’s Women in Business Award.

Before she retires, Kay will see the current Northumberland United Way campaign through to completion.

Northumberland United Way Board Chair Gerald Blackstock says Kay’s history of community service and contributions to the organization have been remarkable.

“It is difficult to convey the magnitude of gratitude and respect that we have for Lynda, for the way she has shaped the culture of this organization and for the scope of impact that she has had on the people of this community for more than a quarter century,” Blackstock says. “Lynda will be leaving in place a legacy of positive organizational change, community vitality and innumerable lives made better through her tireless efforts.”

After she retires, Kay plans to spend more time with her family and to continue supporting the Northumberland community.

“It has been 28 years of growth, learning and joyful experiences,” Kay says. “I am very proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to continuing to support this amazing organization as a volunteer and as a donor.”

The Board of Northumberland United Way will be beginning the process of recruiting a new CEO to fill Kay’s position.

Peterborough police have charged 34-year-old Bryan Townson with first degree murder in the death of 43-year-old Paul Atchison — Peterborough’s first homicide of 2017.

On Wednesday, February 8th at around 12:30 a.m., a 9-1-1 call was received about a man needing medical assistance in the area of Dalhousie and Stewart Streets in Peterborough.

After responding to the call, a man was found collapsed on the sidewalk suffering from obvious injuries. He was transported by ambulance to Peterborough Regional Health Centre where he was pronounced dead.

The victim was identified as 43-year-old Paul Atchison of Stewart Street in Peterborough.

According to witness reports, Atchison had been stabbed multiple times. A a blood trail led from the scene of the crime to the location where Atchison was found. Police say they have what they believe is the murder weapon, but haven’t confirmed the nature of the weapon.

Shortly after police arrived in response to the initial call, they located a man and woman a couple of blocks north of where Atchison was found. Police arrested both people in connection with the case, but have since determined the woman was not criminally responsible for Atchison’s death and have released her with no charges.

The male suspect, 34-year-old Bryan Townson of Stewart Street, has been charged with first degree murder. He is being held in custody and expected to appear in court the afternoon of February 8th.

Police have confirmed that Paul Atchison, Bryan Townson, and the women initially arrested and later released were all known to each other. According to witness reports, the woman was Atchison’s ex-girlfriend and Townson was her new boyfriend. Police are not looking for any other suspects.

A post-mortem examination will take place on February 9th to determine the cause of Atchison’s death.

Although streets in the area of the crime have been reopened to traffic, there will be a police presence in the area of Stewart and Dalhousie Street for the next couple of days while they continue the investigation.

Anyone with further information related to this case is asked to call the Peterborough Police Service at 705-876-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.stopcrimehere.ca.

Oh February, you can be such a challenge! There are about 40 days until spring, but who’s counting? We’ve got lots of snowthusiast readers — which is great, and that’s why we make sure our outdoor event columns are always current. But at this time of year, let’s face it — extreme cold and freezing rain can put a damper on anyone’s spirits.

This is why I write this column; to bring you positive news about both indoor events (there are many!) and a few hand selected outdoor events (for Family Day Weekend!). There’s a lot to look forward to in February. And when we reach February 28, there will be 22 days until spring. Not that I am counting.

We’ve got Valentine’s Day and Family Day weekend to look forward to this month, so let’s share some love for local events.

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For the love of animals: Max Mouse and The Gorillas

On Sunday, February 12th, Max Mouse and the Gorillas will take the stage at The Historic Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, K9H 2L1) to raise funds for the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society (LAWS)

It’s an all ages Valentine’s Dance from 3 to 6 p.m. with this legendary band made up of local greats Buzz Thompson, Bobby Watson, JP Hovercraft, Jim Leslie, John Lang, and Cris Cuddy.

Tickets are $12 at the door or $10 in advance, available at The Hank to Hendrix Guitar Co. (280 Perry St., Peterborough, 705-740-0965), Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425), and the LAWS shelter (2887 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield, 705-652-0588).

kawarthaNOW kudos to Max Mouse and the Gorillas for often supporting events for the animals.

 

Fur Ball 2017 is “Top Hats & Tails” and a class act

Here’s another big event for animal lovers! On Saturday February 25th, the annual Fur Ball gala takes place at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough) to support The Peterborough Humane Society.

Kicking off at 6 p.m., the event will feature hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, a gourmet dinner, chocolate, cheese, aperitifs, live music by 4Front, dancing, a live and silent auction, and a photo booth. VIP tickets include an exclusive cocktail hour with private entertainment and exclusive access to the photo booth.

Gala tickets are $75 per person or $100 for a VIP ticket (which include an exclusive cocktail hour with private entertainment and exclusive access to the photo booth). Tables for 10 are also available for $750 ($1,000 for a VIP table). Tickets are available at the Peterborough Humane Society (385 Lansdowne Street East, across from Morello’s Your Independent Grocer) or online through snapd Peterborough. You can also download and print a ticket order form.

Read our story on the Fur Ball Gala by Jeanne Pengelly, featuring Honorary Chairs Signe and Stu Harrison and their fur babies.

 

Royal Wood brings local love to Showplace on February 14th

How to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day: buy yourself tickets to Royal Wood and tell your partner where he’s taking you that evening. Hey, it worked for me and I recommend it.

Whether you’ve seen Royal Wood before or not, plan to give yourself and your special someone this treat for Valentine’s Day. Despite the fact this show is in the main theatre at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469), I can promise you that it will feel intimate, up close and personal with this rising Canadian star.

You can read more about Royal’s thoughts on that, and his local farm, in our recent interview with him by Josh Fewings.

There are many great seats left as of this story, but don’t delay to get yours. Tickets are $34.50 and are available at the Showplace box office or online at www.showplace.org.

 

This Valentine date night could be the perfect bullseye

This event caught my eye for the originality factor. New to Peterborough last year, the popular Peterborough Axe Club is presenting “Dinner & Axes” at 6 p.m. at Peterborough Axe Club (280 Perry Street, Unit 1, Peterborough).

They are billing this as an evening of combining two of the world’s greatest pleasures; delicious food and chucking axes. It’s definitely a one-of-a-kind event with a catered sit-down meal followed by an evening of axe throwing. Tickets are $65 per person and must be purchased in advance (no tickets available at the door).

For more information, see our event listing. They get JT picks points for originality on this one!

 

Plan ahead for the Family Day Long Weekend

One of the great things about the Family Day Long Weekend is the emergence of events that truly are focussed on family and group activities. And we’ve got an event column for that. Check out our full list of regional Family Day Weekend local events which is chock full of indoor and outdoor fun. Here are a few you might want to check out on Family Day weekend.

Kick off the long weekend with a concert by local musician Missy Knott, who is celebrating the release of her new EP at 8 p.m. on Friday, February 17th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146). Missy is an accomplished Aboriginal songwriter from Curve Lake. Her musical guests will include Kate Suhr, Jace Martin, Cody Carslake, Gary Williams, Hillary Dumoulin, Mary Kate Edwards, Brian Mehlenbachr, and more. Tickets are $20 plus fees ($15 plus fees for students) and are available at the Market Hall. For more info, see our event listing.

If you’re yearning to get outside, maybe enjoy some great local food, and fit in some shopping, then be sure to plan to head to Bobcaygeon. Local business group Impact 32 has organized their first annual “Family FrostFest” to take place all weekend at the Gazebo at Lock 32 (1 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon). Volunteers will be on hand (with hot chocolate!) from noon to 3 p.m. each day over the long weekend. Join in on their snow sculpture contest and enter win a $100 gift certificate for the Bobcaygeon retailer of your choice. Judging will be by people’s choice award online. Be sure to save some time to visit lovely downtown Bobcaygeon for great shopping and food! See our event listing for more details.

On holiday Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Canadian Canoe Museum (910 Monaghan Rd., Peterborough) is hosting its 3rd Annual Great Canadian Family Day, where you can enjoy 10 pop-up activity stations throughout the galleries for kids of all ages, including crafts, games, a water table, and a photo booth (I love their photo booths!). There will also be a Kawartha Marine Modellers model boat display, artisan demonstrations, Morse Telegraph Club demonstrations, and more. This event is free for Museum members or $25 per family (two adults and up to four kids). See our event listing for more information.

 

Double love this year for Empty Bowls YWCA on Friday, February 24th

I’ve always loved the idea of this event: attend, eat great food, and take a local hand-crafted bowl home with you! Oh, and did I mention you’re supporting the YWCA too? Well, this year they tugged even further on my hearstrings when they announced that their new “Empty Bowls” title sponsor is the Peterborough and District Dental Society, in memory of Dr. Judith Buys, who passed away last summer following a tragic accident.

“We’re so pleased to follow in the footsteps of Dr. Judith Buys by supporting YWCA Food Programs through Empty Bowls,” says the Peterborough and District Dental Society. “Good nutrition is the foundation of good general health and dental health. Helping members of our community achieve these goals is our duty as health professionals.”

Empty Bowls will take place on Friday, February 24th. For $25, members of the community are invited to enjoy a delicious lunch, donated by local Peterborough restaurants and businesses, and receive an original handcrafted bowl created by a local artisan. Proceeds from Empty Bowls directly support YWCA Food Programs which help women and their families move toward thriving by providing access to healthy food, increasing food literacy and creating new and meaningful connections within their communities.

New this year, Empty Bowls offers two dining options: dine at the Venue or pick up your lunch “to go” from Black Honey Cafe (pick-up orders must be made in advance at the YWCA by February 20th).

kawarthaNOW kudos to the Kawartha Potters Guild, Kawartha Woodturners Guild, and Artisans Centre Peterborough for donating the beautiful, handcrafted bowls for this annual event.

 

February finishes with a lot of love for music and local theatre

If you’re a patron of local music and theatre, I’m sorry to let you know you’ve got some tough choices to make on Saturday, February 25th as several great events are happening at the same time. As is often the case with these “everything collides” evenings, the important thing is to get out and support at least one of these events! With so much to choose from, be sure to choose at least one and give them our local love support.

Crime City moves to the Gordon Best Theatre for “The Private Eye Effect” on February 25th

Fans of Andrew Root’s Crime City series will know that the pulp detective radio drama parody is moving to the Gordon Best Theatre (216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough) in February for an expanded episode called “The Private Eye Effect”. While they’ll be returning to the Theatre on King as their regular venue, this evening will provide opportunity for an expanded and hopefully new audience to see their local genius.

This show will star Mike Judson, Marsala Lukianchuk, Kenn Gibb, Dan Smith, Adam Martignetti, Melanie Dubois, and Ray Henderson. A fun ascpect of this evening is the “choose your own adventure” with eight possible endings where the audience will choose the direction of the play. With live sound effects by Melissa Post and special guests Caitlin Currie and Danny Bronson. If you’re at all curious about this local hit, head to the Gordon Best Theatre at 8 p.m. on February 25th. Tickets are only $10 at the door.

Local fans may also know that writer/director Andrew is pitching the series to CBC Comedy. Read more about that in our interview with Andrew by Sam Tweedle.

Peterborough Folk Festival’s February Folk Folly is returning to downtown Peterborough on February 24 and 25

The Peterborough Folk Festival isn’t just a summer event. They host regular concerts throughout the year at the Gordon Best as well as the annual “Folk Folly” during February.

Launching this year’s event will be a performance by Ontario folk/rock favourites Elliott Brood at 8 p.m. on Friday, February 24th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146). Elliott Brood are a much celebrated band with acclaimed live performances, constant tours, and a number of critically enjoyed records. Opening the show will be local show-stopper Melissa Payne.

Tickets for the show are $20, or $17 for students, plus fees, and are available now at the Market Hall Box Office, online at www.markethall.org,, and (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

After Friday’s kick-off concert, the real Folk Folly begins on Saturday, Febuary 25th. Businesses in downtown Peterborough will be hosting concerts from 1 to 6 p.m., while The Red Dog and The Pig’s Ear will be hosting after-parties later in the evening. Some of the performers for the free pop-up concerts on Saturday in downtown Peterborough are Murder Murder, Jadea Kelly, Luke Nicholson, Evangeline Gentle, and Melissa Payne (five more acts are to be announced). The pop-up concerts are free and great for all ages!

Murray McLauchlan at Showplace in Peterborough on February 25

Last but not least is a rare Peterborough performance by Canadian folk icon Murray McLauchlan, who’ll be taking the stage at 8 p.m. Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469). McLauchlan’s list of achievements are too long to list here but with numerous albums, awards, and countless great songs, he’s always worth the price of admission. Tickets are $45 and are available at Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.

 

If you’d like to have your event considered as a top pick, your first step is to make sure to submit it to our event system.

If you want to be in the know about what’s coming up (and maybe win tickets!), you should subscribe to our VIP Enews which will arrive in your inbox every Wednesday morning — along with a link to the most recent version of this column. Sign up for our VIP Enews here.

Thanks for reading and please let me know what you think by posting a comment below.