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Give local this holiday season and make our community better all year round

By kawarthaNOW -
Give local this holiday season by buying unique gifts that support local non-profit organizations, like tickets to the 2017 summer season at 4th Line Theatre in Millbrook. Pictured is a scene from 4th Line Theatre's 2007 production of Leanna Brodie's Schoolhouse. (Photo: Wayne Eardley, Brookside Studio)

This holiday season, consider giving a local gift that also gives back to our community year round.

We’ve curated a list of gift options from local non-profit organizations that will not only surprise and delight the recipient, but will also make a lasting difference in the community.

From gifts that support arts, culture, and music, to gifts that enhance health care, the safety of women and children, and environmental education, there’s something here for everyone on your list.

Give the gift of local summer theatre this Christmas with 4th Line Theatre tickets

4th Line Theatre presents the world premiere of Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind by David S. Craig in summer 2017. Around 50,000 Canadians served with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and Royal Air Force (RAF) in Bomber Command operations over occupied Europe during World War II. Here an RCAF bomber crew walks to their Halifax bomber in October 1944. (Photo: Veteran Affairs Canada)
4th Line Theatre presents the world premiere of Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind by David S. Craig in summer 2017. Around 50,000 Canadians served with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and Royal Air Force (RAF) in Bomber Command operations over occupied Europe during World War II. Here an RCAF bomber crew walks to their Halifax bomber in October 1944. (Photo: Veteran Affairs Canada)

Here’s a Christmas gift idea that will not only thrill the theatre lover on your list, but also supports original, local summer theatre: a 2017 season subscription to 4th Line Theatre in Millbrook. And if you buy tickets before December 23rd, you’ll save $2 on single tickets.

As a non-profit organization, 4th Line Theatre largely depends on ticket sales and memberships to bring its original productions about little-known stories from Canadian history to audiences.

“We need your support now more than ever as costs continue to rise and we continue to take artistic risks,” says Kim Blackwell, Managing Artistic Director at 4th Line.

Since 1992, 4th Line Theatre has been bringing critically acclaimed productions to its idyllic outdoor theatre setting at Winslow Farm and Summer 2017 looks like it’ll be no exception.

Next July, 4th Line will present the world premiere of Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind. Written by David S. Craig and directed by David Ferry, the play tells the story of a war veteran in his nineties who’s visited by a mysterious young woman whose curiosity about his wartime experience forces him to relive his memories of love, loss, and friendship. Set against the electrified and heightened backdrop of World War II, this action-packed epic about Canadian bomber crews has everything for the theatre lover on your list: romance, danger, and music.

4th Line Theatre presents the world premiere of The History of Drinking in Cavan by Robert Winslow in summer 2017. Pictured is Robert Winslow in 4th Line Theatre’s 2012 production of Queen Marie.(Photo: Wayne Eardley, Brookside Studio)
4th Line Theatre presents the world premiere of The History of Drinking in Cavan by Robert Winslow in summer 2017. Pictured is Robert Winslow in 4th Line Theatre’s 2012 production of Queen Marie.(Photo: Wayne Eardley, Brookside Studio)

Then in August, 4th Line will present the highly anticipated world premiere of The History of Drinking in Cavan. Written and directed by 4th Line Theatre founder and Creative Director Robert Winslow, the play looks at alcohol consumption (or lack thereof) in the local area over the past 200 years. The History of Drinking in Cavan takes the audience on a wild historical ride from the early days of Irish settlement in the township through to present-day drinking practices.

You can purchase tickets online from 4th Line Theatre’s website at www.4thlinetheatre.on.ca, by calling their box office at 705-932-4445, or by visiting 4 Tupper Street in Millbrook. If you purchase tickets before December 23rd, you’ll get $2 off the single-ticket price.

And if you want to ensure reserved seating for your gift recipient, you can also gift a membership to 4th Line Theatre on their behalf. For more information and to donate, visit www.4thlinetheatre.on.ca.

Support Canada’s heritage with a gift of membership and more from The Canadian Canoe Museum

As a member of The Canadian Canoe Museum, you can enjoy the museum for free all year. Individual, family, and corporate memberships are available. (Photo: Canadian Canoe Museum)
As a member of The Canadian Canoe Museum, you can enjoy the museum for free all year. Individual, family, and corporate memberships are available. (Photo: Canadian Canoe Museum)

If you’re looking for a unique gift that supports an important part of Canadian culture and heritage and a national museum located right here in the Kawarthas, then give the gift of membership to The Canadian Canoe Museum.

“You’re supporting the stewardship and care of the world’s largest collection of canoes and kayaks,” says Jessica Fleury, the museum’s Marketing and Media Relations Manager.

Members get unlimited free admission to the museum and access to special events, including an annual tour of canoes and watercraft that aren’t available to the general public (only around 120 of the museum’s collection of 600 canoe and watercraft are on public display at any given time). Members also get their own newsletter, a vote at the museum’s Annual General Meeting, special discounts for the museum store and workshops, and more.

Some of the canoes on public display at The Canadian Canoe Museum. Members to the museum also get an annual tour of canoes and watercraft in the collection that aren't available to the general public. (Photo: Canadian Canoe Museum)
Some of the canoes on public display at The Canadian Canoe Museum. Members to the museum also get an annual tour of canoes and watercraft in the collection that aren’t available to the general public. (Photo: Canadian Canoe Museum)

You can buy a membership of an individual person, or give a gift to your entire family with a family membership. Corporate memberships are also available.

Or how about giving the gift of creativity? The Canadian Canoe Museum offers regular artisan workshops in 2017, including its popular “Carve a Canoe Paddle” workshop, as well as workshops on stitching, beading, weaving, moccasin making, and much more.

Finally, you can find gift items at the museum’s Tumblehome Shop. Visit the shop in person or online for a wide selection of unique products like paddles, clothing, jewellry, home decor, art, books, games, and more.

To purchase a membership, sign up for a workshop, or shop online, visit the museum’s website at www.canoemuseum.ca. You can also visit the museum in person at 910 Monaghan Road in Peterborough.

Help save someone’s life with a gift to the Peterborough Regional Health Care (PRHC) Foundation

PRHC Foundation is currently fundraising for three new state-of-the-art mammography machines for the hospital's Breast Assessment Centre. Here PRHC Foundation President & CEO Lesley Heighway (middle) with staff of the Breast Assessment Centre (Senior Ultrasound Technologist Katelyn Martino, Breast Health Navigator Lindsey Justynski, Senior Mammography Technologist Jill Cummings, and Clerk Angela Henderson) thank donors for their support. (Photo: PRHC Foundation)
PRHC Foundation is currently fundraising for three new state-of-the-art mammography machines for the hospital’s Breast Assessment Centre. Here PRHC Foundation President & CEO Lesley Heighway (middle) with staff of the Breast Assessment Centre (Senior Ultrasound Technologist Katelyn Martino, Breast Health Navigator Lindsey Justynski, Senior Mammography Technologist Jill Cummings, and Clerk Angela Henderson) thank donors for their support. (Photo: PRHC Foundation)

Many of us have been personally impacted by breast cancer, so one great way to support our community this holiday season is to give a donation in lieu of a gift that will help to make sure the our hospital has the tools needed to provide cancer diagnosis as early as possible.

According to Lesley Heighway, President and CEO of the PRHC Foundation, early detection plays a key role in stopping this deadly disease.

“The numbers are startling,” Lesley says. “One in nine Canadian women will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes. Early detection is critical. In fact, thanks to a combination of early detection and advanced treatment options, some studies tell us that the five-year survival rate for women with breast cancer that hasn’t spread beyond the breast can be as high as 98.5%.”

“We need the support of the community to ensure that breast cancer screening remains state of the art and that the best possible care remains available for women from across our region,” she adds.

The PRHC Foundation is currently fundraising for three new mammography machines for PRHC’s Breast Assessment Centre. Investing now will allow the hospital to introduce three-dimensional breast imaging technology, enabling radiologists to look at the breast from many angles to confidently determine if anything looks suspicious. This will help them detect smaller tumours earlier, while reducing the need for call-backs as well as the anxiety that they can create for patients.

One way to support the PRHC Foundation’s efforts is through their Celebration Giving program, where donors can call or go online to give a “present” that everyone can feel good about.

Donors can select from a variety of seasonal e-cards that can be personalized to the recipient. They’re also able to direct their gift to an area of patient care that’s close their heart like the Mammography campaign, Women and Children’s programs, cancer and/or cardiac care, or simply direct their donation where it’s needed most.

To make a gift, call the PRHC Foundation at 705-876-5000 or donate online (where e-cards are also available).

For more information about how donations to the PRHC Foundation this holiday season will make a real difference in people’s lives, read our story here.

Support exceptional music and theatre by gifting membership and tickets to Showplace Performance Centre

Give a gift of membership to Showplace Performance Centre, or buy tickets to one of the upcoming shows like the Valentine's Day show by Lakefield's own Royal Wood (publicity photo)
Give a gift of membership to Showplace Performance Centre, or buy tickets to one of the upcoming shows like the Valentine’s Day show by Lakefield’s own Royal Wood (publicity photo)

If you have a friend or family member who loves live music and theatre, consider giving them a membership to Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough.

Showplace is a non-profit charitable organization that relies on fundraising, grants, sponsorships, volunteers, memberships and donations to cover operational costs. You can support great music and theatre by gifting a membership to Showplace.

There are several tiers of membership, with benefits ranging from free ticket exchanges, ticket discounts, special members-only events, free non-alcoholic drinks at shows and meet and greet opportunities, and more.

You can also support Showplace by gifting tickets to some of the great upcoming shows at the venue. Some of the performers coming in 2017 include Royal Wood, Colin James, Matthew Good, and Ben Hepner and Friends — with more to be announced when Showplace launches its 2017 program later this month.

There are also some great family shows coming up this season, including Nickelodeon’s popular Bubble Guppies.

According to General Manager Ray Marshall, it’s a great gift that brings families together. “Families have been attending Showplace for 20 years, and we would like to meet new families who haven’t attended yet.”

If you don’t know the type of show your gift recipient prefers or you want to give them a choice , you can also purchase a gift certificate (multiple denominations are available).

To purchase a membership and to see upcoming performances at Showplace, visit www.showplace.org. You can buy tickets online through the website or in person at the Showplace box office at 290 George Street North in downtown Peterborough. For gift certificates, visit the box office or call 705-742-7469 (toll free 1-866-444-2154).

Support high quality arts and culture events with a gift of tickets to the Market Hall

Give the gift of entertainment by purchasing tickets to an upcoming shows at Peterborough's Market Hall, like The Martin Barre Band on April 11th featuring the renowned guitarist of Jethro Tull (photo: Wayne Herrschaft)
Give the gift of entertainment by purchasing tickets to an upcoming shows at Peterborough’s Market Hall, like The Martin Barre Band on April 11th featuring the renowned guitarist of Jethro Tull (photo: Wayne Herrschaft)

Peterborough is fortunate to have another great performance venue located right downtown: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre. If you know someone who loves live music and theatre, consider gifting tickets to an upcoming show at the Market Hall.

The non-profit organization continues to expand the number of events it’s presenting in 2017, so far including Celtic rockers the Mudmen, Lee Harvey Osmond featuring Tom Wilson (former Junkhouse front man and current member of roots supergroup Blackie and The Rodeo Kings), The Writes of Spring (a songwriter’s circle featuring Hawksley Workman, Amelia Curran, Donovan Woods, and Tim Baker from Hey Rosetta), and the Martin Barre Band featuring the guitarist from Jethro Tull.

“The man sold over 60 million records and we’re going to have him in a 300-seat venue,” says Market Hall manager Chad Hogan.

There are also performances in 2017 from the Peterborough Pop Ensemble, Public Energy, and New Stages Theatre Company.

Providing a venue for other non-profit theatrical and performance groups is one of the Market Hall’s mandates.

“We’re committed to working with other not for profits and charities in the city,” Chad says. “That’s an important part of being a hub here.”

For a list of upcoming shows at the Market Hall and to purchase tickets, visit www.markethall.org.

Help improve the lives of women and children with a gift from YWCA Peterborough Haliburton

Buy a gift from YWCA Peterborough Haliburton and protect local women and children from abuse. For $60, you can buy a "Wrapped in Courage" scarf along with one safe night's sleep. (Graphic: YWCA Peterborough Haliburton)
Buy a gift from YWCA Peterborough Haliburton and protect local women and children from abuse. For $60, you can buy a “Wrapped in Courage” scarf along with one safe night’s sleep. (Graphic: YWCA Peterborough Haliburton)

Here’s a great gift idea that also improves the lives of women and children in our community: a donation to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton.

For only $45.96, you can give the gift of a safe night’s sleep at YWCA Crossroads Shelter for women and children who are escaping from domestic abuse.

“For a woman, that can mean not falling asleep next to someone she’s afraid of,” says Jen Cureton, Director of Philanthropy and Communications with the YWCA. “It’s the start of a new life.”

Last year, YWCA Crossroads Shelter provided 9,433 safe nights’ sleep to women and children in our community.

Government funding covers only 62 percent of the YWCA’s expenses, so community donations are vital. Other symbolic gifts of meaning available at www.ywcagifts.com include making sure that a child gets a birthday gift or a month of nourishing food. When you choose one of these symbolic gifts, you receive a certificate that you can wrap up for your recipient.

This holiday season, you can also give a Wrapped in Courage scarf for $20. The proceeds go to YWCA programming, and wearing the purple infinity scarf shows that you care for women and children affected by abuse in our community. You can also buy a safe night’s sleep and a scarf together for $60. The scarves can be purchased at the YWCA office at 216 Simcoe Street in Peterborough until December 23rd.

VIDEO: “Lauren’s Story”

If you or someone you love is in a damaging relationship, you can call the YWCA’s 24 hour crisis line at 1-800-461-7656. You can also text them at 705-991-0110. “The holidays are a stressful time for a lot of us,” Jen says. “We’d like people to know that we’re here to help.”

Buy Peterborough Musicfest Diner’s Cards and tastefully support free summer concerts

A list of the 38 local restaurants participating in the Peterborough Musicfest 2017 Diner's Cards (graphic: Peterborough Musicfest)
A list of the 38 local restaurants participating in the Peterborough Musicfest 2017 Diner’s Cards (graphic: Peterborough Musicfest)

Here’s a great gift for all the foodies on your shopping list: the 2017 Peterborough Musicfest Diner’s Cards.

For only $20, the Diner’s Card means you can buy one entree and get one for half price at 38 participating Peterborough restaurants, valid from January 1st through November 30th, 2017.

Not only do the Diner’s Cards give you a chance to support local restaurants by enjoying some of the best local food in the Kawarthas, but all proceeds from the sale of the Diner’s Cards also support Musicfest’s summer programming.

“As a non-profit festival providing the community with free concerts all summer long, money raised from Diner’s Cards truly is a great help in putting artists on stage,” says Holly Wilson, Peterborough Musicfest’s marketing coordinator. Last year’s sales of Diner’s Cards raised around $15,000 for the festival.

Musicfest is offering a special “buy three and get one free” offer until January 31st, so head over to the Peterborough Musicfest website and make some serious headway on your Christmas list.

You can also purchase Diner’s Cards at the Lansdowne Place Customer Service Desk, Peterborough & The Kawarthas Tourism Visitor Centre on Crawford Drive, or at the Musicfest Office at 277 George Street North, Suite 211.

GreenUP your gift list by making a monthly donation or by buying an animal puppet

Two of the animal puppets available with a donation to GreenUP's NEST fund, which supports improvements at GreenUP's Ecology Park (graphic: Peterborough GreenUP)
Two of the animal puppets available with a donation to GreenUP’s NEST fund, which supports improvements at GreenUP’s Ecology Park (graphic: Peterborough GreenUP)

For the nature lover, environmentalist, gardener, or outdoors enthusiast on your list, consider a Friends of GreenUP monthly donation.

According to Karen Halley, Communications and Marketing Specialist at GreenUP, it’s a great way to support the organization’s environmental education and stewardship programs as they enter their 25th year.

“Donations to GreenUP are very important to help support environmental programming in the community,” Karen says. “We have a water department, we have an active transportation urban design department, we have energy efficiency services, and we have a waste reduction program.”

You can specify how much to donate each month, and the recipient will also get 10 percent off products at the GreenUP store and Ecology Park.

GreenUP donations also help them distribute educational resources through their store.

“We provide many resources to the public through the GreenUP store and resource centre,” Karen explains. “We try to help people have a more responsible and environmentally friendly lifestyle.”

Nature lovers on your list young and old will especially appreciate a donation to GreenUP’s NEST fund. The fund is dedicated to improvements at GreenUP’s Ecology Park, including enhancing aging facilities and enhancing outdoor programming.

With each donation to the NEST fund, you’ll receive a cute animal puppet and a card with more information about that animal.

To make a monthly donation or a donation to the NEST fund, viisit the GreenUP website at www.greenup.on.ca/donate/. You can also visit the GreenUP store at 378 Aylmer Street North in Peterborough.

With files from Eva Fisher.

Reggie’s Hot Grill in Peterborough under new ownership

By kawarthaNOW -
Reggie's Hot Grill in East City in Peterborough will reopen December 15 under new ownership (photo: Red Wagon Family Food / Facebook)

Steve and Carolyn Effer are the new owners of Reggie’s Hot Grill at 89 Hunter Street East in Peterborough’s East City.

Reggie’s Hot Grill has a new Facebook page at www.facebook.com/reggieshotgrill/.

According to posts on social media, the Effers plan to re-open the popular fast-food restaurant on Thursday, December 15th. The Effers will serve food using the original Reggie recipes.

The Effers currently operate Red Wagon Family Food, a year-round chip truck at 2621 Lakefield Road, north of Wonderland Drive near Trent University.

Reggie’s Hot Grill was originally opened by Cameron Green and Rej Maranda, who had operated a chip truck business in Lakefield. They grew the business by opening Reggie’s on Hunter Street as well as El Camino’s on George Street. They later opened Kettle Drums and purchased McThirsty’s Pub on Charlotte Street, and decided to sell Reggie’s.

East City Bakery purchased Reggie’s in 2013. Peter Kayser of Kayser FInancial Services purchased the restaurant in 2015 and rebranded it Reggie’s Gourmet Burgers.

The new owners of Reggie's Hot Grill also own Red Wagon Family Food (photo: Red Wagon Family Food / Facebook)
The new owners of Reggie’s Hot Grill also own Red Wagon Family Food (photo: Red Wagon Family Food / Facebook)

Off-duty Peterborough police officer charged with impaired driving

By kawarthaNOW -

On Friday, December 9th, the Peterborough Police Service received a call from a concerned citizen reporting an erratic driver on Chemong Road in Peterborough. Police then received a second call reporting a suspicious vehicle stopped on Chemong Road south of Milroy Drive.

After investigating the call, police found an off-duty officer asleep at the wheel of his personal vehicle. He was arrested and is now facing charges.

Constable Brock Boynton, who has been a member of the Peterborough Police Service for six years, has been charged with impaired driving and driving over the legal limit.

Boyton was released on a Promise to Appear for court on Thursday, January 5, 2017. His licence was suspended for 90 days and his vehicle was seized.

A investigation under the Police Services Act has been started. Boynton has been assigned to administrative duties effective immediately.

Peterborough Petes fans donate 1,525 toys at annual Teddy Bear toss game

By kawarthaNOW -
Some of the 1,525 toys for the Country 105/Energy 99.7 Miracle Toy Drive that fans tossed on the ice at last night's Petes' game (photo: Peterborough Petes)

Peterborough Petes fans showed their generosity in the 21st annual Teddy Bear Toss game last night (December 8), when Petes forward Zach Gallant scored a powerplay goal with 3:21 to play in the first period against the Ottawa 67’s.

Gallant and his teammates celebrated as fans covered the ice surface with donations including 1,525 stuffed toys, 38 pairs of mittens, 31 toques, 7 pairs of socks, 3 scarfs, and donations totaling $595.55.

The Minor Peewee AAA Petes collected the donations with assistance from Petes game operations staff and several other volunteers. While the Petes got back to work on the ice against the 67’s, volunteers from Winslow-Gerolamy Motors Limited transported the donations, which will be included in the Country 105/Energy 99.7 Miracle Toy Drive in support of the Salvation Army.

The Petes went on to win the game 5-3, which included a hat trick by Petes forward Steve Lorentz.

Next Thursday (December 15th), the Petes take on the London Knights in the first ever Ugly Christmas Sweater game in support of Operation Christmas Child. Fundraising game-worn sweaters will be available, and one of the first 2,500 fans in the building will win a snowmobile valued at $9,000.

Tickets are available at the Peterborough Memorial Centre box office or online at tickets.memorialcentre.ca.

Withdrawal – a review of Cocaine

By Sam Tweedle -
Samantha Maxfield as boxer Joe and Lindsay Unterlander as Nora in director Eryn Lidster's production of the 1919 play Cocaine at The Theatre on King (photo: Andy Carroll)

On Thursday, December 8th, Eryn Lidster make her directorial debut with her production of Pendleton King’s one-act play Cocaine at The Theatre on King (TTOK). A dark drama, Cocaine features the talents of Lindsay Unterlander and Samantha Mansfield in a gritty performance about passion, survival, desperation and death.

Written by New York playwright Pendleton King, Cocaine was first performed by the influential Providence Players in 1921, three years after King’s death. Pendleton King was an eccentric who, despite being very wealthy, resided in the poorest sections of New York. His life amongst New York’s impoverished can be seen in the colourful and blunt subject matter of Cocaine.

Despite being written around 1919, the play is so raw and so realistic that it could have been written only a few years ago — proving that little has changed regarding lust, depression, and addiction in the last century.

Cocaine

When: Thursday, December 8 – Saturday, December 10, 2016 at 8 p.m.
Where: The Theatre on King (159 King St., Suite 120, Peterborough)
How much: $10 at the door or pay what you can

Written by Pendleton King, adapted and directed by Eryn Lidster, and featuring Samantha Maxfield as Joe and Lindsay Unterlander as Nora.

Cocaine is a snapshot of a desperate love affair between injured boxer Joe (Samantha Mansfield) and her lover Nora (Lindsay Unterlander). With Joe unable to fight due to her injuries, Nora has taken to prostituting herself, but has found little success.

As a result, the couple has no money for food and rent — or the cocaine that they are both hooked on. Losing all hope, the pair contemplates their survival, often coming to extremely dire conclusions.

Cocaine is a bleak script, but there’s a touch of exoticness within the connection between Joe and Nora and their desperation. Giving the show a second level of intensity is that Eryn decided to genderbend the role of Joe, thus transforming the two lovers into a lesbian couple living in New York in 1919.

Keeping the dialogue as is, except for a few gender adjustments here and there, this change gives the couple an extra layer of alienation by placing the show in an era where gay people still hid within the shadows of society. It’s an interesting change that adds more dynamite to a show that’s already explosive.

Director Eryn Lidster adds a layer of alienation to the original script by changing the gender of Joe (photo: Andy Carroll)
Director Eryn Lidster adds a layer of alienation to the original script by changing the gender of Joe (photo: Andy Carroll)

Lindsay Unterlander continues to amaze with her performance as Nora. Although she’s been a constant presence in the theatre world since I’ve been reviewing shows, in 2016 Lindsay has stepped out from behind the scenes performing backup characters and come into the spotlight. She has proved herself to be an extremely versatile actress and a capable leading lady.

The role of Nora is Lindsay’s finest performance to date. Poor, hungry, and itching with withdrawal from her lust for cocaine, Nora is a woman madly in love and sees her role as a prostitute as the sacrifice that she must make for Joe. But despite her love for her man, Nora has little left to live for. Lindsay gives an emotional performance as a woman who has hit bottom but can only look further down. Her performance is genuine and extremely real, and makes this show come very much alive. A perfect performance by a wonderful talent. I hope we see more of Lindsay headlining shows in the upcoming year.

As Joe, Samantha Mansfield gives a solid performance for Lindsay to play off of. Although often seeming emotionally removed and solemn, Samantha can go from zero to 50 extremely quickly, and her real energy comes out during moments of conflict and desperation. Samantha makes Joe both powerful and vulnerable at the same time, and although she creates a cold and often intimidating character, moments of tenderness come through when she and Nora are together.

Samantha Mansfield gives a solid performance as Joe, and the role of Nora is Lindsay Unterlander's finest performance to date (photo: Andy Carroll)
Samantha Mansfield gives a solid performance as Joe, and the role of Nora is Lindsay Unterlander’s finest performance to date (photo: Andy Carroll)

But beyond the drama, the real magic of this performance is the way that the company manages to transform TTOK into a gloomy New York rooming house in 1916. With old beat-up furniture, a half bricked up wall, and some imaginative lighting designed by Eryn with assistance from Ryan Kerr, the set is so bleakly believable that the show eventually seems like an uncomfortable act of voyeurism, with the audience looking in.

Making the experience even more intense is a constant soundscape of horses, trains, cars, and other city night sounds that subtly play in the background throughout the show. It’s so subtle that you often forget that it’s there, and then a train goes by, and a haunting cackle laughs in the loop, and you hear it all again. This effect works incredibly well, and when I realized the soundscape was playing again I’d often get goosebumps.

Cocaine is an interesting show with fine performances. The script is dramatic and intense and one that needed to be dusted off. Eryn’s manipulation of the subtext is a unique one, and works incredibly well. But most of all, it is a fine directorial debut from a talented woman. I look forward to seeing what Eryn produces next.

Cocaine runs from December 8th to 10th at TTOK. Tickets are $10 or pay what you can and the show starts at 8 p.m.

nightlifeNOW – December 8 to 14

By kawarthaNOW -
Dylan Ireland and Kayla Howran perform two acoustic sets at Spanky's in downtown Peterborough on December 8, and Dylan also performs at Tribute Audio's Christmas Party at The Spill in downtown Peterborough on December 10 (publicity photo)

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, December 8 to Wednesday, December 14.

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.

7oh5
ARIA
Arlington Pub
Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub
Black Horse Pub
Canoe & Paddle
The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg
Catalina's
The Ceilie (Trent University student pub)
Chemong Lodge
The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse
Coach & Horses Pub
Dobro Restaurant & Bar
Dominion Hotel
Frank's Pasta and Grill
The Garnet
Gordon Best Theatre
Junction Nightclub
McThirsty's Pint
The Mill Restaurant and Pub
Oasis Bar & Grill
Pattie House Smokin' Barbecue
Pig's Ear Tavern
Pitchers Place
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
Red Dog Tavern
Riley's Olde Town Pub
Sapphire Room
Shots
Southside Pizzeria
Spanky's
The Spill
Tank House
The Trend
The Venue
Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort
Winchester Arms

7oh5

295 George St. N, Peterborough
(705) 743-2717

Thursdays

10pm - Thirsty Thursdays w/ DJ Crash & guests

Friday, December 9

10pm - Friday Night Vibe w/ DJ Jay ($5 cover)

ARIA

331 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-0333

Friday, December 9

10pm - Project Friday Fck Exams

Saturday, December 10

10pm - Big Club Night

Arlington Pub

32990 Highway 62, Maynooth
(613) 338-2080

Saturday, December 10

9pm - Ian Russell

Coming Soon

Friday, December 16
8pm - Open mic

Saturday, December 17
9pm - Salty Dog

Bancroft Eatery and Brew Pub

4 Bridge St., Bancroft
(613) 332-3450

Tuesdays

7:30pm - Trivia Tuesdays

Wednesdays

7pm - Jam Night in the York Room

Black Horse Pub

452 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 742-0633

Thursday, December 8

7:30pm - Jazz & Blues w/ Rob Philips & Marsala Lukianchuk

Friday, December 9

5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Four Lanes Wide

Saturday, December 10

5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Tonemasters

Sunday, December 11

3pm - Christine Artrill Band

Monday, December 12

7pm - Crash and Burn w/ Rick & Gailie

Tuesday, December 13

7pm - Open mic w/ Randy Hill

Wednesday, December 14

8pm - Student Band Night

Coming Soon

Thursday, December 15
7:30pm - Jazz & Blues w/ Rob Philips & Marsala Lukianchuk

Friday, December 16
5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Pop Machine

Saturday, December 17
5-8pm - Rick & Gailie; 8:30pm - Northern Soul

Sunday, December 18
3pm - Brian Haddelsey

Canoe & Paddle

18 Bridge St., Lakefield
(705) 651-1111

Saturdays

8-11pm - Live music

Sundays (2nd/4th of month)

2-5pm - Live music

Tuesdays

7-10pm - Open jam

The Cat & The Fiddle Cobourg

38 Covert St., Cobourg
(905) 377-9029

Fridays

9pm - Live music (TBA)

Catalina's

131 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-5972

Thursdays

7:30pm - Dance With Me & Cobourg Swing and Lindy Hop Dancing Lessons ($10 per class)

Friday, December 9

9pm - Look What the Cat Dragged In Open Mic Drag Show

The Ceilie (Trent University student pub)

1600 West Bank Dr., Peterborough
(705) 748-1011

Thursday, December 8

7-11pm - Holiday Open Mic (all ages, no cover but non-perishable donations to Kawartha Food Share welcome)

Tuesday, December 13

6-8pm - Trent Okios presents Games Night (everyone welcome)

Wednesday, December 14

6-9pm - Knit Night (beginners and pros welcome)

Thursday, December 15

7-9pm - Beer Tasting (19+, $10 for 10 samples)

Friday, December 16

Last call, open until 8pm and then closed until the New Year

Chemong Lodge

764 Hunter St., Bridgenorth
(705) 292-8435

Thursdays

5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

Fridays

5-9pm - Pianist Barry McMullen (dining room)

The Church-key Pub & Grindhouse

26 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 653-0001

Thursday, December 8

9pm - Nick Ferrio

Friday, December 9

9pm - Al Lerman

Saturday, December 10

9pm - Exposure Exposure

Mondays

Trivia Monday

Tuesday, December 13

6pm - Brewers & Industry Christmas Party

Wednesdays

Whiskey Wednesday w/ Ken Tizzard

Coming Soon

Friday, December 23
6-10pm - Xmas Party ft Muddy Hack

Coach & Horses Pub

16 York St. S., Lindsay
(705) 328-0006

Thursdays

10pm - Open Jam w/ Gerald Vanhalteren

Wednesdays

7-11pm - Live music

Dobro Restaurant & Bar

287-289 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 775-9645

Thursday, December 8

10pm - Roy Asselstine

Friday, December 9

10pm - High Waters Band

Saturday, December 10

10pm - High Waters Band

Wednesdays

Open stage

Dominion Hotel

113 Main St., Minden
(705) 286-6954

Saturday, December 10

2pm - Kitchen Party Music Jam (free, musicians and fans welcome)

Frank's Pasta and Grill

426 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-2727

Thursdays

5-8pm - Live music

Fridays

9pm-12am - Karaoke Night

Saturday, December 10

8pm - Extreme Metal Night w/ Anthropophagy & Latrodectus; 11pm - DJ Shreddy Beats

Sundays

4-8pm - Kids Karaoke

Tuesdays

7pm & 8pm - Salsa Classes beginners & intermediate ($10/lesson)

Wednesdays

8-11pm - Open Mic

Coming Soon

Saturday, December 17
8pm - Little Lake; 11pm - DJ Chrome

Saturday, December 31
8pm - NYE Party ft Sawdust from 8-11pm & DJ Shreddy Beats from 11pm-3am ($15 includes guaranteed seating for Sawdust, party favours, sparkling wine)

The Garnet

231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-0107

Thursday, December 8

9pm - Persons, Guy Madonna, Meowlinda ($5-8)

Tuesday, December 13

10pm - Evangeline Gentle

Wednesday, December 14

Cellar Door

Coming Soon

Thursday, December 15
Craig Paterson, Fredrico Pontani

Friday, December 16
Ewan MacIntyre, Bonus Numbers

Saturday, December 17
James Bell, Nick Procyshyn, Jamie Gia

Gordon Best Theatre

216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 876-8884

Friday, December 9

8-11pm - Three Martinis & Friends Holiday Bash ($20 in advance, $25 at door)

Saturday, December 10

8pm - "First Date" - A Musical Comedy ($16, at www.thegordonbest.ca or at door)

Sunday, December 11

2pm & 8pm - "First Date" - A Musical Comedy ($16, at www.thegordonbest.ca or at door)

Coming Soon

Thursday, December 15
7pm - Peterborough Folk Fest presents Fortunate Ones ($20 general admission, tickets at www.peterboroughfolkfest.com)

Friday, December 16
9pm - The Citiots Improv ($12 adults, $10 students)

Saturday, December 17
7pm - Silver Hearts Album Release Show w/ Mayhemingways ($17.50 at www.thegordonbest.ca)

Saturday, January 28
7pm - Peterborough Folk Fest presents Hannah Georgas ($20 general admission, tickets at www.peterboroughfolkfest.com)

Junction Nightclub

253 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-0550

Friday, December 9

10pm - Y2K Flashback w/ DJ Bill Porter (no cover)

Saturday, December 10

10pm - Pure Saturdays

McThirsty's Pint

166 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 743-2220

Thursdays

10pm - Jan Schoute

Fridays

10pm - Brian Haddlesey

Saturdays

10pm - Brian Haddlesey

Mondays

10pm - Trivia Night

Wednesdays

9pm - Cody Watkins

The Mill Restaurant and Pub

990 Ontario St., Cobourg
(905) 377-8177

Thursday, December 8

7pm - Don Owen

Coming Soon

Thursday, December 15
7pm - Todd Mason & Nick Marcuz

Oasis Bar & Grill

31 King St. E., Cobourg
(905) 372-6634

Thursdays

6:30pm - Live music

Sundays

5:30pm - PHLO

Wednesdays

6:30pm - Live music

Pattie House Smokin' Barbecue

6675 Highway 35, Coboconk
(705) 454-8100

Saturday, December 10

7-10pm - Cocktails & Canvas Night ($50)

Pig's Ear Tavern

144 Brock St., Peterborough
(705) 745-7255

Fridays

Pingo

Saturday, December 10

10pm - Hack of The Pig ft Everybody Love Everybody, Antixx, The Muddy Hack ($3)

Mondays

Pool Night

Tuesdays

Open stage (second Tuesday of each month: 5-7:30pm - Family Friendly Open Mic)

Wednesdays

Humpday Karaoinke

Pitchers Place

8642 Lander Rd (Gores Landing), Cobourg
(905) 342-2832

Thursdays

6-9pm - Folk Thursdays ft Kim Doolittle and Clayton Yates ($7)

Puck' N Pint Sports Pub

871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
(705) 741-1078

Fridays

Live music

Tuesdays

Live music

Red Dog Tavern

189 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 741-6400

Thursday, December 8

10pm - PUP ($12 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16330/)

Friday, December 9

9pm - Uptown Productions presents The Best Snow Job Ever ft Burlesque w/ Loca Lola and other local performers

Saturday, December 10

9pm - Unity & Solidarity Dance w/ Dub Trinity

Tuesdays

10pm - Open mic

Coming Soon

Friday, December 16
10:30pm - A Tribe Called Red (SOLD OUT)

Friday, January 27
10pm - Tokyo Police Club ($25 at www.ticketscene.ca/events/16607/)

Riley's Olde Town Pub

257 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 750-1445

Thursdays

Travis Berlinbach

Fridays

Travis Berlinbach

Saturdays

Josh Gontier

Sundays

Josh Gontier

Mondays

Josh Gontier

Tuesdays

Josh Gontier & Cale Gontier

Wednesdays

Guest performers

Sapphire Room

137 Hunter St., Peterborough
(705) 749-0409

Coming Soon

Friday, December 23
10pm - A Very Merry xXxMas ft Miss Divalicious, Madge EnThat w/ music styles by Magnola Saintraven

Shots

379 George Street K9H 3R2, Peterborough
(705) 749-9315

Wednesdays

10pm - Wednesday House Party

Southside Pizzeria

25 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough
(705) 748-6120

Fridays

9am-12pm - Open mic ($2); 8pm - Karaoke

Tuesdays

9am-12pm - Open mic (free); 8pm - Karaoke

Spanky's

201 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-5078

Thursday, December 8

9:30pm & 11 pm - Next Door: Acoustic Sessions/Monthly Night 01 w/ Kayla Howran & Dylan Ireland (no cover)

VIDEO: "Carry Me Along" - Express and Company

Coming Soon

Thursday, December 22
8pm - Spanky's 7th Annual Customer Appreciation Xmas ft live music and DJ (free)

The Spill

414 George St., Peterborough
(705) 748-6167

Thursday, December 8

8-11pm - 2nd Annual Concerts for Socks ft Ferraro, Kirty, Paper Shakers (all ages, $8 in advance at www.thejoyfulproject.com/tickets, $10 at door, new sock donations welcomed)

Friday, December 9

Burrett & Friends Play The Hits

Saturday, December 10

11am-5pm - Focus Fair Art & Craft Sale; 9pm - Tribute Audio Christmas Party ft Dylan Ireland and Deluxe

Sunday, December 11

11am-4pm - Focus Fair Art & Craft Sale

Monday, December 12

Fat Plant Assembly Presents PTBO v.3 Shannon Taylor, B. Root, Charlotte Dempsey, Scott Cecchin/Robyn Smith

Tuesday, December 13

Fun 'N' Games Night With Matt Jarvis

Wednesday, December 14

7-9pm - Spoken Word Open Mic.

Coming Soon

Thursday, December 15
8pm - Evan Moore, Laughed The Boy, The Muddy Hack, Todd Jaxon ($5 or PWYC)

Friday, December 16
8pm - Mattress, Potion, ELMS, Olias ($8 or PWYC)

Saturday, December 17
2-5pm - Pays d'en Haut (PWYC); 9pm - Lindy Vopnfjord Album Release, Wax Mannequin, Andrew McLean ($10, $15 w/ new album download card)

Tank House

295 George St. N, Peterborough
(705) 743-2717

Friday, December 9

5:30pm - Northern Soul

Saturday, December 10

4pm - Roy Boys

Coming Soon

Friday, December 16
5:30-9:30pm - High Waters Band; 9:30pm - Gen XY Dance Party w/ DJ Candice

Saturday, December 17
7:30pm - The Blues Brothers Xmas Party ft Mississauga Delta Blues Band
and special guest Shane Philips ($20 in advance at 704-930-1124, $25 at door)

The Trend

110 London St., Peterborough
(705) 750-1265

Thursday, December 8

7-10pm - Trent Queer Collective Pub Night (all ages)

The Venue

286 George Street North, Peterborough
(705) 876-0008

Coming Soon

Tuesday, December 20
7-10:30pm - For the Love of Love Xmas Party ft Silver Lining (PWYC, proceeds to Warming Room)

Tuesday, February 28
8pm - Mother Mother #NoCultureTour w/ We Are The City ($29.50 available at http://www.ticketmaster.ca/event/10005175B8D58A95)

Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort

1045 Settlers Line, Keene
(705) 295-4591

Coming Soon

Wednesday, December 28
3-5pm - Winter Music Series ft Mayhemingways (no cover)

Winchester Arms

299 Ridout St., Port Hope
(905) 885-9393

Tuesdays

7pm - Trivia night

Here’s what to do if you get sick or injured over the holidays

By kawarthaNOW -
When it comes to seasonal influenza, getting a flu shot now is your best defence to keep you healthy over the holiday season. It takes two weeks for a flu shot to become effective. (Photo: Government of Ontario)

With the first cases of seasonal influenza now confirmed in our community, Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), Peterborough Public Health and the Peterborough Family Health Team are working together to prepare for an expected increase in patient volumes in the coming weeks.

For the second year in a row, PRHC will open an additional 24 inpatient beds from December 2016 through to March 2017 to enhance patient care during the hospital’s busiest time of year.

If you or a family member get the flu or another sudden or urgent illness, you can go to the PRHC’s Emergency Department (ED) for assessment and treatment.

However, the Peterborough Family Health Team encourages residents to consider other options before visiting the ED, such as family practitioners at clinics in the city and county who are offering same day appointments and extended-hours clinics.

“As usual at this time of year, we ask the people of our community to assess the urgency of their illness before deciding whether to seek care with their family practitioner, a community clinic, or the Emergency Department,” says Dr. Mark Troughton, Chief and Medical Director of the ED at PRHC. “We also ask for your patience if it takes longer than usual for a physician to see you due to an increase in the number patients coming through the department.”

How to decide whether you should go to the Emergency Department at PRHC (graphic: PRHC)
How to decide whether you should go to the Emergency Department at PRHC (graphic: PRHC)

If you do decide to go to the Emergency Department, please wear a mask if you’re coughing and sneezing to protect others from potential flu exposure. Masks are available inside the Emergency Department entrance at PRHC.

“Visitors to the ED are encouraged to wear a mask if they have any flu symptoms, such as cough, runny nose, sore throat, muscle pain or headache, in order to protect others from potential exposure to the virus,” Dr. Troughton says

For children under the age of 18 with urgent but non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses, PRHC also offers a Pediatric Urgent Care Clinic. The clinic, led by nurse practitioners and supported by pediatricians, will offer extended after-hours care throughout the month of December. For more information and clinic hours, visit www.prhc.on.ca/cms/pop-urgent-care.

If you find yourself in a medical situation that doesn’t require urgent care, consider the following options:

  • Call your family doctor or nurse practitioner — clinic information will be offered via the office voice mail message
  • Visit www.peterboroughfht.com for clinic hours and information
  • Speak to a registered nurse by calling Telehealth Ontario (24 hours) at 1-866-797-0000.

When it comes to preventing the flu, Peterborough Public Health reminds residents that getting immunized with a flu shot is the best defence.

“As influenza circulates in the Peterborough community, the flu shot may help keep you well over the holidays,” says Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “It also prevents you from spreading it to people who are at the greatest risk of getting seriously ill if they get the flu: seniors and young children.”

The flu shot is recommended for everyone over six months of age. Dr. Salvaterra also advises residents to avoid delaying getting the flu shot, because it takes two weeks to become effective — so sooner is better to reduce the chance of falling ill over the holiday season.

The flu shot is free and widely available at many local pharmacies, doctors’ offices and walk-in clinics. Residents can easily find out where the flu shot is available by visiting the Flu Clinic Locator at www.ontario.ca/flu. Peterborough Public Health also offers flu shot appointments for patients without a family physician. Call 705-743-1000 ext. 349 to make an appointment.

Peterborough teens arrested after taking a joy ride to Timmins

By kawarthaNOW -

Two Peterborough teens were arrested on Wednesday (December 6) following a police pursuit of a stolen vehicle on Highway 144 south of South Porcupine in Timmins.

The incident resulting in the closure of a section of Highway 144 for around seven hours on Wednesday.

The two teens allegedly stole the vehicle, a 1998 Toyota Corolla, on Tuesday afternoon (December 5) from a George Street North parking lot while the owner was at work.

On Wednesday morning at 9:40 a.m., North East Region OPP identified the stolen car travelling north bound on Highway 144 and attempted to intercept it. The motor vehicle was abandoned and two male suspects left the motor vehicle on foot into a wooded area off of Highway 144.

The OPP closed Highway 144 between Highway 101 and the Watershed (east of Highway 661) near Gogama while they searched for the suspects. At 3:30 p.m., the OPP North East Region Emergency Response Team (ERT), with the assistance of the OPP North East Region Canine unit, located and arrested the two suspects. Highway 144 was reopened at 5 p.m.

As a result of the investigation, the OPP have charged 18-year-old Nathaniel Blair with possession of property obtained by crime under $5000, flight while pursued by peace officer, fail to comply with conditions of undertaking, and two counts of fail to comply with sentence.

The OPP have also arrested and charged a 17-year-old male from Peterborough, who cannot be named as per the Youth Criminal Justice Act. His charges include possession of property obtained by crime under $5000, flight while pursued by peace officer, and fail to comply with sentence.

Both suspects remain in custody until their bail hearing today (December 8).

That’s a holiday wrap!

By GreenUP -
Switching to eco-friendly gift wrapping does not mean you have to forgo the excitement. Old books, magazines, and maps can be repurposed into decorative envelopes and bows while pinecones, birch bark, and small sprigs of evergreen can add decorative personal touches to your gifts. (Photo: GreenUP)

Last year in Canada over the holidays, retailers sold us over $500 million in televisions and audio equipment, along with over $400 million in toys and games, almost $200 million in sports equipment, and $122 million in jewellery and watches.

Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Karen Halley, GreenUP Communications & Marketing Specialist .

All those gifts, given traditionally each year while celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, and Kwanzaa, are usually hidden behind wrappings, ribbons, and bows that are not able to be recycled. That’s right! In Peterborough, and many other municipalities, traditional wrapping paper, plastic and foil wraps, bubble wrap, ribbons and gift bows, must all go into the garbage and are trucked off to our landfill.

The majority of nearly half-a-million tonnes of holiday waste that goes to landfills each year is made up of discarded gift-wrapping and shopping bags. But isn’t the experience of watching a loved one tear back the paper to reveal their holiday gift all part of the fun? And doesn’t everyone love the excitement of finally opening the greatly anticipated present that’s been sitting under the tree?

Rethinking gift-wrapping doesn’t mean you have to forgo the excitement, anticipation, and surprises. In fact, it’s actually an opportunity to personalize your gift, to have some fun, and be creative in the process.

Reusable gift bags can be made from just about anything! Burlap, fabric scraps, and even old shirt sleeves can be made into gift bags that can be used year after year. Or, consider filling a tote bag or reusable lunch bag, or basket as your wrapping. (Photo: GreenUP)
Reusable gift bags can be made from just about anything! Burlap, fabric scraps, and even old shirt sleeves can be made into gift bags that can be used year after year. Or, consider filling a tote bag or reusable lunch bag, or basket as your wrapping. (Photo: GreenUP)

In the spirit of The Sound of Music, go simple and wrap up your gifts into brown paper packages tied up with string! This is likely the most recyclable option.

Rolls of brown craft paper are available at postal outlets and many department stores. Personalize the paper with seasonal stamps or set the kids up with markers and paint to add some artwork to your wrappings.

Old books can be repurposed into decorative envelopes for smaller gifts. Simply pull out some of the pages from a book you might otherwise donate, or pick up some large-paged coffee table books from the thrift store. Fold and glue pulled-out page edges, punch a hole in the top, thread a ribbon through, and you have a lovely envelope for a card, or a piece of jewellery. An added bonus: it can be hung on a Christmas tree.

One very convenient way to wrap gifts is with pre-decorated, reusable holiday boxes and tote bins.

A few years back, I ran out of wrapping paper on Christmas Eve. With no time to purchase more, I grabbed the decorative boxes used for storing my ornaments throughout the year, added some tissue, and placed them under the tree. Now, I do this every year. Once the ornaments are hung, the boxes are empty so I use them to wrap up some gifts.

Fabric gift bags are another great reusable option. They are perhaps the simplest sewing project for the beginner sewist, and a great way to practice sewing straight lines. Make them from old sheets, t-shirts, or fabric scraps. If sewing is not an option for you, you can pick up homemade fabric bags in a variety of sizes, at the GreenUP Store.

Reusable paper gift bags are plentiful for purchase in most stores. Some stores will actually provide you with a gift bag upon checkout. Depending on what bags are made from, they may have to be discarded in the garbage, but don’t toss them out — you can reuse them, too! For years, my sister and I have passed our holiday gifts back and forth using the same gift bag. Our family gets a good laugh at this each year.

GreenUP Store Associate Tabetha Graham makes gift bows from an old atlas and outdated newspaper flyers. The GreenUP Store has many gift wrapping options for purchase, or for your inspiration! (Photo: GreenUP)
GreenUP Store Associate Tabetha Graham makes gift bows from an old atlas and outdated newspaper flyers. The GreenUP Store has many gift wrapping options for purchase, or for your inspiration! (Photo: GreenUP)

Once your gifts are wrapped, you may want to add some final touches. Try making your own bows from newsprint, comics, or recyclables. Coloured string and fabric ribbons look lovely tied around gifts; they can be reused many times, whereas plastic ribbons are more difficult to repurpose and will need to be placed in the garbage.

Add a tag made from a card you saved from last year, or write decoratively, directly onto the package with coloured pens. Make some additions from nature! Adorn your gifts with pinecones, sprigs of evergreen and Sumac berries, or small sheets of birchbark, which simply decompose after their use.

Wrap it up the green way this year and you’ll be doing your part to reduce excessive waste that Canadians generate during the holidays. For quick and easy solutions, visit the GreenUP Store at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough where you can BundleUP an entire eco-friendly gift along with a card and green wrapping, all in one stop. Visit greenup.on.ca/greenup-store for more green, gift ideas.

City council votes to sell Peterborough Distribution Inc. to Hydro One

By kawarthaNOW -
Hydro One is offering $105 million in cash to buy Peterborough Distribution Inc. (photo: Peterborough Utilities Group)

At a special committee of the whole meeting held last night (December 7) at Showplace Performance Centre and open to the public, Peterborough city council voted to sell Peterborough Distribution Inc. (PDI) to Hydro One.

After almost two hours of discussion and debate, Mayor Daryl Bennett and Councillors Andrew Beamer, Henry Clarke, Dave Haacke, Dan McWilliams, and Lesley Parnell voted in favour selling the city’s electricity distribution company, and Councillors Gary Baldwin, Keith Riel, Dean Pappas, Diane Therrien, and Don Vassiliadis voted against it.

Although the meeting was open to the public, there were no delegations so members of the public were not allowed to speak directly to council. However, many people in the audience of around 85 openly heckled and shouted at councillors who supported the sale of PDI to Hydro One.

The decision to sell PDI will be ratified at a council meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 15th at the Market Hall. Members of the public will have an opportunity to address council at this meeting.

Related story

Hydro One offers to buy Peterborough Distribution Inc. for $105 million

Back in October, City of Peterborough Holdings Inc. — the city’s private corporation that owns Peterborough Distribution Inc. (PDI) — recommended the city accept the offer from Hydro One. The city conducted an extensive community consultation process in the following weeks.

An Environics poll conducted in November following the public consultation found that 90% of Peterborough voters oppose the sale of PDI to Hydro One, with 83% believing the sale will lead to higher electricity rates.

The offer from Hydro One includes $105 million in cash for PDI, which will net around $55 million for the City of Peterborough after settling PDI’s debts, taxes, and costs related to the sale.

Hydro One has also promised to reduce electricity distribution rates by one percent for existing PDI customers, to freeze distribution rates for five years (with rate-of-inflation increases for the following five years), to protect jobs for PDI employees for one year, and to create a new Hydro One operations centre and fleet maintenance garage in Peterborough, adding 30 new jobs while keeping 70 existing Hydro One jobs based in Peterborough.

City of Peterborough Holdings Inc. estimates that the new Hydro One operations centre and fleet maintenance garage will generate over $100 million in economic benefits to Peterborough over the next five years.

City council’s controversial decision to sell PDI comes on the heels of news that the Canadian Union of Public Employees is suing Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne, Finance Minister Charles Sousa, and former energy minister Bob Chiarelli over the sale of the province’s shares in Hydro One.

It also follows Premier Wynne’s admission in November that soaring electricity rates for Hydro One customers, especially distribution rates, were her “mistake”.

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