Fleming College Carpentry Techniques students Daniel Widdis, Carter Clark, and Benjamin Wright working on a wall frame destined for the new Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building at Lang Pioneer Village in Keene (photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
The building of walls is getting a pretty bad rap these days, thanks in no small part to the controversial U.S. border barrier being pushed by one Donald J. Trump.
However, that same act brought nothing but smiles Wednesday afternoon (February 1) at Fleming College’s Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre, as key players in the construction of the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building gathered to herald a new partnership connected to the project.
As several Carpentry Techniques and Carpentry Technician students watched on, Craig Mortlock, vice-president of Peterborough-based Mortlock Construction Inc., announced that Fleming students are building the timber frame walls for the building, which will open September 24th at Lang Pioneer Village near Keene.
“Once we figure out how we could do this, it was like ‘Go’. I had been looking for opportunities to give kids a chance to show their skills and learn, so this was a perfect fit,” said Mortlock following the announcement of the partnership.
“At the end of the day, you’re in this trade (construction) because you can walk away from your job and you know the project you just completed isn’t getting filed in a filing cabinet. It’s tangible; it’s right there. You can walk up and you can look at it for the rest of your life; you can walk by it and feel the pride. I’m excited for these students to get that opportunity.”
Equally enthused is Fleming carpentry program co-ordinator Simon Mokedanz, noting 45 second-semester students and 36 fourth-semester students are involved in the project.
“We’ve been approached with lots of community-based projects but this is the first one which has allowed us to build such a large-scale project. This one worked well with the curriculum and the timing is right in terms of the shop time needed, so it fit the mold.”
VIDEO: Raise the Barn Fleming College students issue a challenge to comedian Rick Mercer to come to Keene to help raise the walls of the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building. Share the video on social media with the hash tag #RaiseTheBarnRickMercer.Designed by Lett Architects, the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building will resemble a circa 1910 barn, fitting in perfectly with the structures at the centre Lang Pioneer Village, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The timber frame walls being built by Fleming students are being stored with construction of the building to begin in late March/early April — a “barn raising” as many referred to it Wednesday.
Following the 2006 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo held in Keene, a legacy fund was endowed to the County of Peterborough for the purpose of continuing local education on the impact and importance of the region’s agriculture heritage. There things sat until June 2015 when the County announced plans to build the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building.
Planned features of the centre include the Peter Hamilton Agricultural Collection, the Peterborough County Agricultural Wall of Fame, agricultural equipment displays and operation demonstrations, a conservation lab, a multi-purpose space for various community activities, a commercial kitchen and an outdoor courtyard.
With a projected cost of $2 million, close to half that amount is being provided by the federal government via the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund. The remainder is being raised via corporate and private donations. Donations can be made directly to the Raise The Barn campaign at www.raisethebarnptbo.com.
Now augmenting the fundraising effort, being overseen by County partnership development and fundraising manager Karen Jopling, is a video plea to Rick Mercer of Rick Mercer Report fame.
The video, featuring some of the Fleming students involved in the project, invites the comedian to come to Keene to help raise the walls of the heritage building. It’s hoped that those who do watch it will share it, including the hashtag #RaiseTheBarnRickMercer.
Also on hand Wednesday was County Warden Joe Taylor. He noted the County contributed $300,000 to the construction of the Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre. Now, Fleming students learning the carpentry trade in the centre are giving back — “a perfect example of how partnerships can work.”
The County, he added, hasn’t committed any dollars to the project yet but is on standby, waiting to see the final result of the fundraising effort. How any shortfall is handled, he said, “is a discussion for another day.”
For more information on the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building project, visit www.raisethebarnptbo.com.
"Blue Ice", a large-scale photograph by Arnold Zageris from his latest series "Antarctica" (photo courtesy of Christensen Fine Art)
Here we are, February, the frozen heart of winter. Or perhaps better described as the melting then freezing then melting heart of winter … regardless, it is clearly the perfect time to pop into Christensen Fine Art and experience the icy landscape of Antarctica, as seen through the large-format lens of photographer Arnold Zageris.
Other upcoming events include a day trip to the AGO, the second annual zine-fest at Artspace, and openings at Evans Contemporary and Acme Art and Sailboat Company. There will also be arts-related workshops, calls for submissions at Public Energy, and a show featuring still life painting at The Kawartha Artist’s Gallery.
So bundle up and get out of the house! After all, there is a lot to see and do this February!
Christensen Fine Art presents Antarctica: Exhibition and Book Launch
“Shipwrecked”, a large-scale photograph by Arnold Zageris from his latest series “Antarctica” (photo courtesy of Christensen Fine Art)
Arnold Zageris’ latest series of stunning large-scale photographs and corresponding book Antarctica will be featured this month at Christensen Fine Art, opening on the evening of Friday, February 3rd and continuing until Saturday, February 25th.
The book Antarctica contains not only striking pictures of a breathtaking place, but fascinating tales of the trips Arnold has taken over the years to obtain these images. The text provides insight into the pictures and process, and also provides us with a further experience of the place itself. It is the kind of book that you pick up and do not want to put down! His former publication On the Labrador, which is also available at Christensen Fine Art, is no different in this respect.
An opening reception will be held at Christensen Fine Art on Friday, February 3rd from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. with Arnold Zageris in attendance.
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.
Evans Contemporary presents printmaker Janne Laine
“Echo” (Polymergravure and Aquatint, 45x60cm, 2014) by Janne Laine (photo courtesy of Evans Contemporary)
From Friday, February 17th until Saturday, March 25th, Evans Contemporary will feature the work of Finnish artist and master printmaker Janne Laine.
Janne gathers source images from the landscapes of Finland and Iceland and using these, creates stark dreamy images imbued with a sense of mystery. Alluring symmetrical compositions and beautiful subtleties of colour typify his printmaking style.
An opening reception will be held at Evans Contemporary on the evening of Friday, February 17th from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to see these lovely works in person.
Join Artspace and Trent University on a day trip to the Art Gallery of Ontario
Jeff Thomas, Bear Portrait No. 1, Culture Revolution, 1984, on display as part of “Toronto: Tributes + Tributaries, 1971-1989” currently on view at the Art Gallery of Ontario (photo courtesy of Artspace)
On Friday, February 10th, a chartered bus is scheduled to leave from Artspace (378 Aylmer St., Peterborough) at 9:30 a.m. and arrive in Toronto at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) at approximately 11:30 a.m. The bus will then depart from the AGO at 5 p.m. and arrive back in Peterborough at Artspace by approximately 7 p.m. The cost is $25 which includes the bus and general admission to the AGO.
This trip, organised by Artspace and Trent University’s School for the Study of Canada, will be bringing people to see Toronto: Tributes + Tributaries, 1971-1989. A show that highlights an innovative period in the history of the Toronto arts scene, it’s curated by Wanda Nanibush, the Assistant Curator of Canadian and Indigenous Art. For more information the exhibit, visit www.ago.net.
Space is limited, so if you would like to reserve a space please do so immediately. To reserve a space, please contact Jon Lockyer, Director of Artspace at jon@artspace-arc.org or 705-748-3883.
Payments must be made in person at Artspace (378 Aylmer St., Peterborough). Regular hours of operation are from Tuesday to Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
Artspace hosts Book + Zine Fest
On February 25th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artspace will be hosting the 2nd Annual Artspace Book + Zine Fest. This means graphic novels, comics, zines, handmade books, and all manner of paper arts including the work of small presses, and various other printmaking mediums.
This is exciting news!
Since the world of printed materials such as handmade books, comics, and graphic novels is more of an underground scene, these books and the associated artwork can be hard to come by.
On Saturday February 25th, artists will come to Peterborough from across the province to display and sell their work at the second annual Artspace Book + Zine Fest.
This event is free to attend and should have some interesting vendors!
Artspace is 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.
Acme Art and Sailboat Company presents SHIELDS
One of Joe Stable’s new shield pieces, which will be on display as part of his new series SHIELDS (photo courtesy Joe Stable)
A new series of work by Joe Stable will be on display on Friday, February 17th, at the Acme Art and Sailboat Company.
The opening reception will be from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.
This will be an extra special celebration as it will also be a birthday party for Joe, and yes, there will be cake!
Acme Art and Sailboat Company is located at 129-1/2 Hunter Street West, 3rd floor, in downtown Peterborough.
Kawartha Artists Gallery and Studio presents Petals and Pitchers
“Vases and Vessels” by Carol Atkinson is one of the still-life oil paintings on display as part of “Petals and Pitchers” (photo courtesy of The Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio)
The Kawartha Artists Gallery and Studio presents Petals and Pitchers, a show and sale of still-life paintings.
The exhibition runs from Wednesday, February 15th until Sunday, March 12th, with an opening reception on Sunday, February 19th from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Kawartha Artists Gallery and Studio is a not-for-profit artist’s co-operative, located at 420 O’Connell Road in Peterborough.
Hours of operation are Wednesday to Sunday from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Admission is free.
For more information, visit www.kawarthaartists.org, call 705-741-2817, of find them on Facebook.
Public Energy Call for Submissions
Victoria Wood, of the performing group the Pyroflys, during a fiery performance (photo courtesy of Public Energy)
Public Energy is a dynamic company that brings innovative contemporary dance theatre and performance to Peterborough, as well as provides support and opportunities to local performers, writers and choreographers.
Public Energy is currently seeking submissions for two separate programs: Alternating Currents and Dusk Dances.
Alternating Currents is a theatre and performance workshop process, led by dramaturge Kate Story, an award-winning writer and theatre artist. Alternating Currents is intended to benefit both individual and collaborative projects. The application deadline for Alternating Currents is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 8th.
Dusk Dances is an outdoor dance festival featuring top quality contemporary dance and choreography. The festival takes place in public parks in cities across Ontario. One of these performances in the Peterborough location is slated for a local artist. The application deadline for submissions to Dusk Dances is Wednesday, February 15th.
For more information about eligibility and the application process for both Alternating Currents and Dusk Dances, visit publicenergy.ca. Please send all proposals by email to bill@publicenergy.ca or by mail to Public Energy, PO Box 2319, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 7Y8.
artsVest returns to the Kawartha Lakes
A sponsorship workshop for artsVest, which helps build partnerships between arts organizations and businesses (photo: Business for the Arts)
The national flagship program of Business for the Arts (Canada’s national charitable organization of business members who support the arts), artsVest™ returns to the Kawartha Lakes after a successful pilot year.
This program helps provide funding and opportunities for small- to mid-sized arts organizations. Both sponsorship programs and workshop programs are intended to build sustainable partnerships between the arts and businesses.
VIDEO: artsVest Partner with the Arts
In 2013, artsVest tried a pilot year in the Kawartha Lakes and saw a successful cycle, where seven arts organisations created 26 partnerships with businesses, matching funds of over $38,000 and generating another $68,000 in private sector sponsorships. The investment impact on the Kawartha Lakes cultural economy is valued at over $107,000!
It’s exciting news to have this program come to our area! On Monday, February 27th, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., there will be a “Sponsorship 101” information session at workshop at Kawartha Lakes City Hall (26 Francis St., Lindsay), followed by a launch celebration for the artsVest Kawartha Lakes program.
Both events are free. For more information about the events on Monday, February 27th or to reserve your spot, please visit artsvestkawarthalakes.eventbrite.ca.
Carla Hunt is leaving the Lakefield ServiceOntario office on February 10th after 35 years. A presentation will be made at the Kawartha Chamber AGM on February 15th to to recognize her years of service.
Kris Keller, President of the Board of Directors, Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Things have been busy at The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism office.
Our year end has wrapped up and the annual audit is well underway. In addition, staff and board members have been involved in a strategic direction review to prioritize key areas of focus for the next 3 yrs. Read more.
Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting of the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism takes place on February 15 at The Village Inn in Lakefield
The 2017-18 Board of Directors will be elected at the AGM. Nominations will also be invited from the floor. The Kawartah Chamber is expecting a nomination for Mike Walker, Agilec. Additionally, two more nominations could come from the floor without requiring an election.
Business After Hours held at Lakeshore Designs
Lakeshore Designs in Lakefield
Lakeshore Designs Owner, Angela Jones and staff welcomed Chamber Members to their new location on January 25th. Guests toured the newly renovated Lakefield Road location, gathered design inspiration, and networked with fellow Chamber Members.
Angela spoke about the work they put in to the building during the renovation process. Many guests were visiting the new location for the first time, and admired the sleek and cozy design of the showroom and retail location. Returning visitors commented on how the showroom has something different every time they stop in.
Angela has been involved with the Princess Margaret Lottery, decorating the “Early Bird Cottages.” She looks forward to more community involvement in the Kawarthas.
Visit Lakeshore Designs at 2968 Lakefield Road.
Couldn’t make it to Lakeshore Designs? Check out the video!
Carla Hunt leaving ServiceOntario after 35 years
Carla Hunt
After 35 years of service, Carla Hunt will complete her final driver vehicle, and health card transactions at the Lakefield ServiceOntario office on Friday, February 10th.
Carla’s professionalism, friendly smile, and extensive knowledge of ServiceOntario operations will be greatly missed.
She began her career with the Chamber on January 27th, 1982, and was the Assistant Supervisor at the ServiceOntario location from 2004-2011.
Carla will be missed by many dealers, and community residents, who visit the ServiceOntario office regularly. She will also be missed by her co-workers, especially Supervisor Deb Lowcock, who she has worked with for 26 years.
The Chamber wishes Carla the best of luck in her future endeavours! A presentation will be made at the AGM to recognize her years of service. If you aren’t attending the AGM but would like to sign a card for Carla, please stop in at the ServiceOntario office before February 15th.
Growing local business in Selwyn Township – volunteers needed
Working with Selwyn Township’s Economic Development and Business Committee the Township is launching a Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) survey to help local businesses. The Economic Development and Business Committee selected Retail and Service Business as the first sector to be surveyed and the other sectors in the future.
Retail and service businesses will be receiving letters shortly explaining the project in more detail and will be asked to participate to have their voices heard. Learn more.
The Township of Selwyn is looking for volunteers to help administer the surveys for the project. If you are interested in learning more, or volunteering, please contact Kari Partridge, Economic Development Coordinator, at kpartridge@nexicom.net.
Federal government to tax employer contributions
As you may have read in the Chamber’s January 24th NewsFlash, the Federal Government is considering taxing employer contributions paid into group benefit plans.
Although they have not yet confirmed their intention to proceed with this measure, and details have yet to be disclosed, the insurance industry and advocacy groups have reason to believe it’s more than a possibility and will be announced with the Liberal’s Spring 2017 Federal Budget.
The BEL Rotary 37th Annual Polar Plunge takes place on Sunday, February 5th at 12 p.m. Plungers are invited to show their Canadian pride and celebrate Canada 150.
The 11th Annual PolarFest is taking place at various location throughout Selwyn Township on February 3rd, 4th and 5th. Don’t miss out on these great PolarFest events! From the Opening Ceremony Fireworks, to the ice sculpture competitions, to the Annual BEL Rotary Polar Plunge. You don’t want to miss out!
The Rotary Club of Bridgenorth, Ennismore & Lakefield is celebrating their 40th year in 2017! The Chamber and local business community extends their gratitude for 40 years of dedicated service!
BEL Rotary supports many causes each year, locally and abroad.
Annual fundraisers and initiatives include:
Polar Plunge
Super Spring Clean Up
Season Opener Golf Tournament
Bike for Hospice
Project Helping Hands
Adopt a Family
Support of various community organizations
BEL Rotary has also supported the maintenance and upkeep of the BEL Rotary Bridgenorth Trail, and BEL Rotary Park.
While BEL Rotary is based locally, their initiatives don’t stop there. International projects include the Rotary Youth Exchange, polio eradication, and School Builds in Cambodia, most recently in February 2016.
The Rotary Club of Bridgenorth, Ennismore, Lakefield meets Monday evenings at Chemong Lodge. For more information, visit belrotary.com.
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist
Matt Logan, owner of Logan Tree Experts, is now a ISA Board Certified Master Arborist
Matt Logan, owner of Logan Tree Experts, has recently received his Board Certified Master Arborist certification, the highest arborist designation under the International Society of Arboriculture.
Logan Tree Experts has been a member of the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism since 2009, shortly after Matt, and wife Tracy, started the business in his hometown of Lakefield. The company services the entire Kawartha region with two tree care crews and a Plant Health Care program.
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.
The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough won first place in the Trail Towns Workshop 2017 Community Incentive Award for its Peterborough Canoe Heritage and Tradition Experience project, which will include museum exhibits, a walking tour of historic canoe-manufacturing locations in Peterborough, and a Voyageur Canoe tour over the Peterborough Lift Lock. (Photo: The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Four organizations in the Kawarthas have won awards for their winning entries to the Trail Towns Workshop 2017 Community Incentive Award from the Kawarthas Northumberland tourism organization.
The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, Impact 32 in Bobcaygeon, Friends of Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls, and Incredible Edibles Festival in Campbellford have each won a monetory award.
Kawarthas Northumberland invited not-for-profit organizations to submit projects following an interactive workshop, held last November, that showcased the benefits of strengthening the linkages of the Trent-Severn Waterway communities to one another. The projects were to enhance tourism experiences for trails and towns along the Trent-Severn Waterway.
According to Kawarthas Northumberland, “the winning entries demonstrate a high level of community-driven initiatives which demonstrate support and participation from local community leadership, trail development organizations, Parks Canada, and economic/tourism organizations and municipalities.”
Here are the winning projects:
First Place ($5,000 award): The Canadian Canoe Museum for its Peterborough Canoe Heritage and Tradition Experience
The Canadian Canoe Museum’s project includes three interactive and engaging components to inform and celebrate the canoe building history and tradition in Peterborough and the surrounding area.
The project includes exhibits at the Museum, a walking tour of historic canoe-manufacturing locations in downtown Peterborough and East City (with interpretive panels with QR codes), and a 90-minute Voyageur Canoe tour over the Peterborough Lift Lock.
Second Place ($2,500 award): Impact 32 in Bobcaygeon for their Bike Share Station
Impact 32’s project is for the implementation of a Bike Share Station at Lock 32 in Bobcaygeon, for use during the tourist season.
A bike sharing station is a service where bicycles are made available for shared use to individuals on a very short term basis. This project will allow boaters and guests visiting Bobcaygeon to explore and visit all areas of the town.
Third Place – tie ($1,250 award): Friends of Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls for their Stone Waterfall & Sculpture Garden
The Friends of Lock 34 project involves the redevelopment of the Lock Station property known as the “Island”, specifically for the installation of a stone waterfall and installation of a sculpture on one of the concrete piers located in the canal.
The group plans to add a new sculpture each year, on each of the nine piers, with an annual unveiling ceremony.
Third Place – tie ($1,250 award): Incredible Edibles Festival in Campbellford for their Farm Life Tour Experience
Incredible Edibles Festival tied for the third place award with their project, intended to augment the Farm Life Tour Experience.
Visitors will tour up to four farms for hands-on demonstrations of how farms are run, to understand what they produce, and to ask questions directly to the farmers. Visitors will also enjoy a locally sourced lunch prepared by a guest chef on the banks of the Trent River.
Administered through Regional Tourism Organization 8, Kawarthas Northumberland supports a competitive and sustainable tourism industry, attracts visitors, generates economic activity, and creates jobs within the region that encompasses City of Kawartha Lakes, City and County of Peterborough, and County of Northumberland.
Concept design for VentureNorth, a new business hub in the former Promenade Building at the corner of King and George Streets in downtown Peterborough (graphic courtesy of VentureNorth)
At last night’s (January 30) meeting of Peterborough City Council, councillors voted to invest $300,000 in VentureNorth — the business hub in the former Promenade Building at King and George Street in downtown Peterborough.
The funding will be provided to the not-for-profit Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster between now and the end of 2018 to assist in the operational costs of the entrepreneurial portion of VentureNorth. The funds will not be used for building renovations or by the private investors.
VentureNorth is owned by Paul Bennett (president of Ashburhnam Realty), Mike D’Alessandro (co-founder of Park Place Financial and Farmlife), Robert Gauvreau (president of Gauvreau & Associates CPA), and Cameron Taylor (CEO of OUTDOORsmart! and BOATsmart!).
Public partners in VentureNorth include the Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster, Peterborough Economic Development, Start-Up Peterborough, Junior Achievement, and Fleming College.
The Innovation Cluster’s space will include a 10,000-square-foot business incubator, which has capacity to hold 40 to 50 client companies and will feature office space, two smaller meeting rooms, open common areas, shared kitchen space, a large boardroom, and a copy and print area. Renovations are expected to be completed in early February.
The Innovation Cluster will use the funding from the City of Peterborough in part to subsidize the rental costs for innovation and technology start-ups accepted into the business incubator, so those entrepreneurs can focus initial financial investment on other aspects of building their companies. The funds will also be used to expand training programs for entrepreneuers.
“This funding will allow for the Innovation Cluster to focus on what we do best and help entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas,” says Michael Skinner, President and CEO of the Innovation Cluster.
The $300,000 in funds provided to the Innovation Cluster is in addition to the $950,000 the City of Peterborough will provide in 2017 to Peterborough Economic Development to help attract businesses to Peterborough.
Elliott Brood kicks off the Peterborough Folk Festival's February Folk Folly with a concert at the Market Hall on Friday, February 24 (publicity photo)
Peterborough and the Kawarthas have some great music coming up in February. Brave the cold and check it out.
Hurtin’ for Certain, Three Silver Hearts, High and Lonesome, Jimmy Tri-Tone Band at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene
Elmhirst’s Resort, just east of Keene, continues its Winter Live Music Series every Saturday afternoon in February.
First up in the month is Hurtin’ for Certain, a great country and folk duo on February 4th. The duo features Peterborough musicians Julia Fenn and Megan Kendrick. Sweet harmonies and songs will fill the air.
February 11th features Three Silver Hearts. Band members Trevor Davis, Wyatt Burton, and Charlie Glasspool come together to perform a stripped down version of Silver Hearts tunes.
High and Lonesome takes the stage on February 18th, with a pairing of music and poetry by local music hero Bobby Watson and poet and singer Kate Kelly.
February 25th is the last concert of the Winter Live Music Series and will feature Ottawa Valley blues stompin’ duo The Jimmy Tri-Tone Band.
The shows take place from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Wild Blue Yonder Pub & Patio (1045 Settlers Line, Keene, 705-295-4591 or 800-461-1940). Admission is free and there’s a great selection of beverages and food available.
VIDEO: “Wanted” – The Jimmy Tri-Tone Band
Al Lerman at The Loft in Cobourg on February 4
The Loft in Cobourg The Loft (201 Division St., 416-895-1234) presents Juno-winning blues man Al Lerman on Saturday, February 4th at 7:30 p.m..
Lerman is an excellent musician and performer, known for his howling harp, chugging guitar, and smooth vocals.
This will be an excellent show in an intimate setting. For tickets or more information, call 905-372-2210.
VIDEO: “You’re the One” – Al Lerman
Harry Manx with Kevin Breit at the Market Hall in Peterborough on February 5
Excellent eclectic folk act Harry Manx returns to Peterborough to play Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Sunday, February 5th at 4 p.m..
Manx merges blues with elements of East Indian and Middle Eastern music. He will be joined by the very talented Kevin Breit on guitar, and Clayton Doley will also join the musical festivities.
The show is presented by long-running series Folk Under The Clock, who last brought Manx and Breit to Peterborough back in November 2007. In the audience for that show was kawarthaNOW VIP reader Steve Rushford, who just won a free pair of tickets to the February 5th show courtesy of Folk Under The Clock. Sign up for kawarthaNOW’s weekly e-news for your chance to win tickets to upcoming concerts.
Tickets are the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Some tickets are also available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).
VIDEO: “Death Have Mercy” – Harry Manx
VIDEO: “Nothing About Us” – Kevin Breit
Max Mouse and the Gorillas at The Red Dog in Peterborough on February 12
It’s always worth mentioning when Max Mouse and the Gorillas are playing a show. Especially when it benefits the welfare of animals. The show on Sunday, February 12th will benefit the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) and takes place at The Historic Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W, Peterborough, 705-750-1710) from 3 to 6 p.m.
The show is also billed as a Valentine’s Dance, so bring your dancing shoes. Lots of great talent in this band as Buzz Thompson, Cris Cuddy, JP Hovercraft, Jim Leslie, and John Lang take the stage. Blues, rock and good times all around.
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).
VIDEO:”Steppin’ Out” – Max Mouse and the Gorillas
Blue Valentine tribute to Willie P. Bennett at The Garnet in Peterborough on February 12
Also on Sunday, February 12th will be Blue Valentine, an annual celebration of the life and music of Willie P. Bennett taking place from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107).
Come hear some of your favourite area musicians pay homage to the late great songwriter and former Peterborough resident.
Tickets at the door only! First come, first seated.
VIDEO: “Blue Valentine” – Willie P. Bennett
VIDEO: “Blackie and The Rodeo King” – Willie P. Bennett
Royal Wood at Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on February 14
Royal Wood, originally from Lakefield, plays Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) on Tuesday, February 14th at 8 p.m.
A perfect Valentine’s Day show as Royal’s music drifts from love songs to stories of life, sung and performed with his “cool as a cucumber” delivery. Opening the show will be gifted guitar player and singer Diana Chittester.
Tickets are $34.50 and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.
VIDEO: “Do You Recall” – Royal Wood
Missy Knott at the Market Hall in Peterborough on February 17
Local artist Missy Knott celebrates the release of her new EP on Friday, February 17th. The show, presented by Peterborough LIVE Music Festival, takes place at 8 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146).
Missy is an accomplished Aboriginal songwriter from Curve Lake. She brings an indelible passion to her songs, which have a folk/country tinge to them. 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 Box Office or online at www.markethall.org.
VIDEO: “My Sister’s Heart” – Missy Knott
Nicole Coward at Kawartha Coffee Co. in Bobcaygeon on February 24
Soothing originals and some great songs of the 20th century will be performed by Nicole Coward at Kawartha Coffee Co. (49 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon, 705-738-1500) on Friday, February 24th.
The Kawartha Coffee Co. offers much more than just coffee, with a special dinner menu on the night of the show as well as some delicious alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Suggested admission is $8, but the performance is pay what you can. The music runs from 6 to 8 p.m.
VIDEO: “Through My Window” – Nicole Coward
Ali McCormick at The Garnet in Peterborough on February 24
Songwriter extraordinaire Ali McCormick will be playing tunes at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Friday, February 24th.
The Ottawa Valley artist performs and writes with an honesty and passion that is rare these days. Tickets are available at the door. The show begins around 10 p.m..
VIDEO: “Hardwood Floors” – Ali McCormick
February Folk Folly with Elliott Brood and more in downtown Peterborough from February 24 and 25
Late February brings snow, cold nights — and the Peterborough Folk Festival’s February Folk Folly.
Launching the 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. Tickets are available now at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org, and they’ll be available soon (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).
After Friday’s kick-off concert, the real Folly begins on Saturday, Feburary 25th. Here’s the scheduled line-up of performers:
Mary-Kate Edwards at 12:15 p.m. at Yo Yo Yogurt (188 Hunter St. W.)
Evangeline Gentle at 12:45 p.m. at Empress Gardens (131 Charlotte St.)
Steelburner at 1:15 p.m. at The Whistle Stop Cafe (141 Charlotte St.)
Melissa Payne at 1:45 p.m. at Pensieri Shoes (373 George St. N.)
Jadea Kelly at 2:15 p.m. at the Peterborough Public Library (Peterborough Square)
Luke Nicholson at 3 p.m. at Catalinas (131 Hunter St. W.)
Tim Moxam at 3:45 p.m. at Wild Rock (167 Charlotte St.)
Brandon Scott of Cold Creek County at 4:20 p.m. at Peterborough Square
Murder Murder at 5 p.m. at Publican House Brewery (300 Charlotte St.).
There’ll be an after-party at 9 p.m. at The Pig’s Ear (144 Brock St.) with Mayhemingways and Murder Murder ($5 cover). The fun continues on Sunday with a Mardi Gras Party from 3 to 6 p.m. The Spill (414 George St. N.) featuring Pays d’en Haut (admission by donation, costumes encouraged).
VIDEO: “Little Ones” – Elliott Brood
Murray McLauchlan at Showplace in Peterborough on February 25
Another shows on Saturday, February 25th will be a rare Peterborough performance by Canadian folk icon Murray McLauchlan at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469).
His list of achievements are too long to list here but with numerous albums, awards, and countless great songs, McLauchlan is always worth the price of admission. The show begins at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $45 and are available at Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.
VIDEO: “Down by the Henry Moore” – Murray McLauchlan
Ceilidh Kitchen Party at Clock Tower Hall in Campbellford on February 26
Get ready for a rollicking good time on Sunday, February 26th as Westben Arts Festival Theatre holds their Ceilidh Kitchen Party fundraiser.
The event takes place at the Clock Tower Cultural Centre (36 Front St. S.. Campbellford) from 2 to 4 p.m. Bagpiper Jamie York will pipe the audience into the hall, and then Celtic group Kilt Trip (Jana Reid, Pat McTaggart, Dave Impey, and Andy Thompson) will play some high-energy music to complete the afternoon’s entertainment. Audience members are encouraged to bring their own Celtic instruments and join in!
There will also be guest singers, story tellers, and musicians, as well as a silent auction and raffles, Scotch, Guinness, wine, and Celtic food.
Tickets are $56.50 each and are available online at www.westben.ca.
The Ceilidh Kitchen Party fundraiser for Westben takes place on February 26 in Campbellford (photo: Westben Arts Festival Theatre)
Mother Mother at The Venue in Peterborough on February 28
Vancouver-based alt-rockers Mother Mother are coming to The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-876-0008) as part of their 2017 Canadian headlining tour.
The Juno and MMVA-nominated band is known for their top 5 radio hits such as “The Stand”, “Bit By Bit”, and “Let’s Fall In Love”. On February 10th, they’ll be releasing their sixth studio album No Culture.
Tickets are $29.50 for general admission, or $104.99 plus taxes for a VIP package (which includes early entry, a t-shirt, a two-song acoustic performance, No Culture on vinyl, a meet-and-greet with the band, and an art print).
Tickets and VIP packages can be ordered on Mother Mother’s website at mothermothersite.com.
More information and tickets are available at www.venueptbo.com.
Special note: kawarthaNOW is giving away two pairs of general admission tickets to the show at The Venue, courtesy of LiveNation. For your chance to win, sign up for kawarthaNOW’s weekly e-news.
Peterborough Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Michael Newnham sits beside Mayor Daryl Bennett as he signs the proclamation of Symphony Week in Peterborough, with staff and supporters of the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra in the background (photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Earlier today (January 30), Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett proclaimed this week (January 30th to February 5th) as Symphony Week in Peterborough.
Mayor Bennett’s proclamation at Peterborough City Hall recognizes the 50th anniversary of the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra (PSO). With a reputation as one of Canada’s finest community-based orchestras, the PSO has been a cultural cornerstone in Peterborough since it was founded in 1967.
Several special events are planned to celebrate Symphony Week in Peterborough, culminating with “Northern Voyage”, the PSO’s 50th anniversary gala concert at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 4th at Showplace Performance Centre in downtown Peterborough.
VIDEO: Proclamation of Symphony Week in Peterborough
Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett proclaims Symphony Week in Peterborough (January 30 to February 5, 2017) at Peterborough City Hall with Michael Newnham, Music Director and Conductor of the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra, standing beside him.
Northern Voyage, presented by Terry Windrem in partnership with The Canadian Canoe Museum (which is celebrating its 20th anniversary), will take audience members on a tour around the Arctic Circle via the music of Grieg, Svendsen, Sibelius and Borodin.
The concert will be hosted by James Raffan — adventurer, author, and Director of External Relations at The Canadian Canoe Museum, James Raffan. Raffan will narrate the concert with inspiration from his travels and bestselling book Circling the Midnight Sun.
The gala concert also includes the debut of Christine Donkin’s new music “Canoe Legends”.
Donkin was commissioned by the PSO and The Canadian Canoe Museum to compose a new work in honour of the organizations’ 2016/17 partnership and their respective 50th and 20th anniversaries. “Canoe Legends”, which will features the wordless water song of local Indigenous vocal ensemble Unity, explores water and the canoe and draw inspiration from the Indigenous legend of The White Stone Canoe and the voyageurs legend of The Flying Canoe (La chasse-galerie).
Northern Voyage takes place at Showplace Performance Centre at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2017.
Also joining the PSO for the Northern Voyage concert is internationally renowned American classical violinist Elizabeth Pitcairn. Pitcairn will perform the Sibelius Violin Concerto on her legendary 1720 Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius, a violin with a mysterious past that inspired the Academy Award-winning 1998 film The Red Violin by Canadian director Francois Girard.
Sold out!
The PSO’s 50th anniversary gala “Northern Voyage” concert on February 4th is now sold out.
The gala concert is almost sold out, so don’t delay getting tickets. Tickets are $50 and are available online at www.showplace.org, by phone at 705-742-7469, or in person at the Showplace box office (290 George St. N, Peterborough).
Ticket holders are also invited to attend “Meet the Maestro”, a free pre-concert chat with PSO Music Director and Conductor Michael Newnham, in the Showplace theatre at 6:40 p.m. Following the concert, there will be a special 50th anniversary reception for audience members, musicians, and guest artists in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace.
Violinist Elizabeth Pitcairn brings her red Stradivarius, built in 1720 and purchased by her grandfather for $1.7 million US, to “Northern Voyage”, a gala concert to celebrate the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra’s 50th anniversary in partnership with The Canadian Canoe Museum’s 20th anniversary. The evening’s program on February 4th will feature music by composers from countries that reach the Arctic Circle. Pitcairn will perform the Sibelius Violin Concerto. (Photo by Joy Strotz)
Other special events planned during Symphony Week in Peterborough include:
The 2017 Intermediate Band Festival on Thursday, February 2nd at Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute in Peterborough, where 200 intermediate music students from nine area schools will gather for instrument-specific master classes led by PSO musicians. Students will then rehearse as a massed band with Maestro Newnham. The day will culminate with performances by each individual school band and a special massed band performance directed by Maestro Newnham, in front of the students’ peers and teachers.
As part of its education initiative, the PSO has organized workshops for students and young musicians with Canadian composer Christine Donkin on Thursday, February 2nd in Apsley and on Saturday, February 4th in Peterborough.
On Thursday, February 2nd, the PSO’s Board of Directors is hosting a small, private event at Showplace featuring violinist Elizabeth Pitcairn and her 1720 Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius.
Note: the above three events are not open to the general public.
The Peterborough Peace Council is dedicating its monthly vigil in downtown Peterborough on January 30 to the victims of the Quebec City mosque (photo: Margaret Slavin / Facebook)
The Peterborough Peace Council, which holds a monthly peace vigil on the last Monday of each month, is dedicating its vigil tonight (Monday, January 30) to those killed at the Quebec City mosque yesterday.
The vigil takes place from 5 to 6 p.m. at the corner of George Street North and McDonnell Streets, by the grass labyrinth outside the United Church. Organizers are asking participants to bring lanterns, glow sticks, little lights, and candles contained inside mason jars or other deep candle holders. The organizers will carry placards along the sidewalk facing the end-of-day traffic for the first half-hour, and then gather in a circle to speak about peace.
The vigil will also show solidarity with the Muslim community in Peterborough, which suffered its own hate crime in November 2015 when the Masjid Al-Salaam was fire bombed.
Other vigils and solidarity memorials will be held across Canada tonight.
The local Muslim community has expressed concerns about safety after the Quebec attack, which killed six people and left five in critical condition. Two men have been arrested as suspects in the shooting, although one may be a witness.
The Peterborough Police Service has issued the following statement on the morning of January 30th:
The Peterborough Police Service is aware of the tragic situation in Quebec on the weekend where innocent lives were taken at a place of worship, a mosque.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families and to the Muslim community.
Authorities are still investigating at this time.
Locally, we have a mosque and are aware of citizen concerns that naturally arise after an incident such as what Quebec and the Muslim community as a whole has just experienced.
Our Service is in contact with our local Mosque leadership and will work with our Muslim community to address any and all concerns relating to public safety.
The Peterborough Peace Council formed in November 2014 to foster non-violent direct action and conflict resolution. For more information about tonight’s vigil, visit the Peterborough Peace Council’s Facebook group.
Chef Kevin McKenna, owner of the new Hunter County Cuisine & Wine Bar in downtown Peterborough (photo: Hunter County Cuisine & Wine Bar)
Hunter County Cuisine & Wine Bar in downtown Peterborough
The Hunter County Cuisine & Wine Bar is a new addition to the Hunter Street café district in downtown Peterborough.
Owner and Chef Kevin McKenna features locally sourced Peterborough County area farm-based cuisine, paired with Ontario-only wine, beer, and spirits.
Located at 211 Hunter Street, check it out in person or visit them on Facebook.
Steve Paikin speaks at Peterborough Sales and Ad Club
Steve Paiken, anchor of TVO’s current affairs program The Agenda with Steve Paikin, is speaking at the Market Hall on March 23 (photo: TVO)
If you like a good keynote speech, you have lots to choose from. The Peterborough Sales and Ad Club is hosting its annual signature speaking event, this year welcoming Steve Paikin at their special guest speaker.
The well-known political commentator has moderated multiple election debates, authored five books, and created several documentaries.
The event is Thursday, March 23rd at 6 p.m. at the Market Hall in Peterborough. Tickets are just $25, available online at markethall.org.
Line-up for Peterborough Speaks 2017
Peterborough Speaks, a fundraiser for Peterborough Family Health Team’s Mindfulness for Mental Health program, features five speakers on April 19 (graphic: Your Family Health Team Foundation)
Your Family Health Team Foundation has announced its lineup for Peterborough Speaks 2017.
Mom and autism activist Kate Wells, New Stages Artistic Director Randy Read, Canadian Paralympian Cody Caldwell, forensic profiler and author Kate Lines, and geriatric specialist Dr Jenny Ingram should make for an interesting night of conversation on Wednesday, April 19th at the Market Hall in Peterborough.
Community Conversations at Showplace Performance Centre
Community Conversations features David Goyette interviewing six people over three nights
And Showplace Performance Centre has an ambitious new fundraiser called Community Conversations, with David Goyette interviewing six people over three nights (March 1st, 2nd, and 3rd).
David will chat with Rosemary Ganley, Michael Skinner, Leo Groarke, Lois Tuffin, Syd Birrell, and Teresa Kaszuba.
Dave Rogers of Relic had hoped to recover the roof rafters from this building at Alylmer and Simcoe Street in Peterborough, which was torn down last week. He had earlier offered to build reading tables from the reclaimed lumber for the new library space. Instead, the wood was destroyed during the demolition. (Photo: Dave Rogers / Instagram)
More often than not, when an opportunity is lost, it’s lost forever.
That sad fact was going through Dave Rogers’ mind this past week as he witnessed the demolition of the 122-year-old building just north of the Peterborough Public Library at Aylmer and Simcoe streets. In its place will come 12 parking spots and green space for the library, which is undergoing a $12 million renovation.
While the destruction of a historical building is something Rogers never wants to see, that’s not the source of his greatest frustration.
Rather, the owner of Peterborough-based Relic — which retrieves and repurposes material for the purpose of making furniture and other useful items — is upset his request to rescue roof rafters from the landfill fell on deaf ears or, at the very least, was heard by the wrong ears.
Rogers’ plan was to take that wood “from old-growth forests that we don’t have anymore” and create 30 10-foot reading tables for the new library space — with the added reclamation work to be free of charge.
“The idea came out of nowhere over the summer,” says Rogers, noting he initially approached city councillor Dan McWilliams about his idea, sending him an email to which he responded positively.
Rogers later sent the same proposal to councillors Dean Pappas and Dianne Therrien, as well as Gillian Barnes, Project Manager of Facilities and Planning Initiatives for the City of Peterborough. Also contacted was Mississauga-based Tri-Phase Group, which was awarded the demolition contract.
He was especially encouraged by Tri-Phase’s response, saying emails bounced back and forth between him and the company for a week late last year. After that, he says, “they stopped responding.” That, he says, has surprised him as, from what he gathered from Tri-Phase’s website, “they try to re-use everything.”
“Part of what I do, and why I enjoy what I do, is the fact that I’m preserving something of our past,” Rogers says. “You can just ask for the wood but why not go in with an idea? You’re spending $12 million next door on the library renovation. This massive new space is going to need new furnishings in it. You’re taking down this building next door for parking spots. It’s got this great resource in it that could be used to outfit at least something.
It doesn’t have to be tables. It could be anything, but tables to me just seemed like a logical place to start. This (proposal) gave the City an opportunity to save face a little. They’re taking down this old building to turn it into 12 parking spots. Historically, it’s not a significant building, but it’s 122 years old. There’s only so many of those old buildings around.”
The City of Peterborough had purchased the property in March 2016 for $650,000, as part of the renovation plan for the Peterborough Public Library. The estimated cost to demolish the building is an additional $175,000, with another $525,000 required to redevelop it into a parking lot and green space. (Photo: Dave Rogers / Instagram)
While the wood he sought is gone — useless “unless they have a matchstick operation somewhere” — and his offer to build tables for the new library space is dead in the water, Rogers is pushing for a better result moving forward.
“There are so many things that we do wrong in terms of preserving. I can fly over to London, England and have a beer tonight in a building that’s 500 years old, yet we can hardly keep things for a century here.”
Rogers points to Vancouver where a city-governed policy dictates that 75 per cent of the material of any residence built before 1940 that’s facing demolition must be recycled in some way.
“If we can get the City of Peterborough to a similar place, that would make all the difference in the world,” he says.
“You cannot replace that wood. That, to me, is the most shameful part of all this.”
Still, Rogers is encouraged by some steps that have been taken in the right direction. For example, the demolition of the old jail at the County of Peterborough building overlooking Victoria Park saw him able to get his hands on some of its wood for a client.
“They have a young daughter. They wanted a little bench made for their kitchen … a detention bench for when she misbehaved.”
Rogers has also been working with The Publican House and the gutting of the former Peterborough Arms space. He’s worked with the owners and has “a useful piece of lumber stored away. It’s waiting for a specific project or two and will go back into that space.”
For more information on Relic and/or to connect with Rogers regarding his building material preservation and re-use efforts, he can be reached at dave@relicdesigns.ca.
Editor’s note: we were unable to reach representatives from either the Peterborough Public Library or the City of Peterborough for comment before publishing this story.
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.
