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Get cycling this spring with free Thursday Bike Nights

The new Bike Night program on Thursdays offers tune-ups, workshops, and group rides to get you on your bike this spring. And check out the SPARK Spin bicycle routes offered during the SPARK Photo Festival in April.

It is officially spring! The snow we saw last week sent many of us back into hiding for a few days, but despite this brief return of winter, you may have already hauled your bicycle out of the garage, checked the tires, and taken it for a spin.

As a fair-weather cyclist, I am always eager to get on my bikes each spring. Again this year, at the first sign of warm sunshine and dry roads clear of snow, I was digging through the shed past the snow shovels and toboggans, to clear the way for my bikes.

I have two bikes: one for going fast and travelling longer distances, and a step-through cruiser bike for going at a nice, leisurely pace to nearby destinations. For years I have gotten by with minor maintenance and quick fixes to small mechanical issues. This year, I am faced with a new dilemma: both of my bikes require some TLC.

That is why I am excited about Bike Night, a new program offered by GreenUP and B!KE, with help from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the City of Peterborough. Bike Night is a free community program running every Thursday evening from April to September. Each Thursday focuses on a different theme to help make riding your bike easy, convenient, and fun.

The first Bike Night on Thursday, April 6 is a two-hour workshop to help get your bike raedy for spring and to learn about seasonal bike maintenance.
The first Bike Night on Thursday, April 6 is a two-hour workshop to help get your bike raedy for spring and to learn about seasonal bike maintenance.

Thank goodness each Thursday in April is planned to help us all get tuned up and geared up for hopping on our bikes. Starting on April 6th, the very first Bike Night is a two-hour workshop to help you (and me) get our bikes ready for spring, while teaching us about the basics of maintaining our bikes throughout the season.

The workshop takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at B!KE The Community Bike Shop (293 George St., Peterborough). Register at peterboroughmoves.com/events-workshops/bike-night/.

Bike Nights falling on the first Thursday of each month are dedicated to bike mechanics including repair, maintenance, and building.

If your kids are eager to begin biking to school and the playground, bring the kids to the second Bike Night on Thursday, April 13th for a special Family Bike Tune-up. The workshop will cover the ABC’s of bike maintenance in a playful and accessible way. Be prepared to work as a family on each bicycle, in turn. Kids aged 8 to 12 often demonstrate the most interest and ability to work on bicycles.

In fact, Bike Nights falling on the second Thursday of each month will be family-friendly and fun for kids of all ages. Family Bike Nights being offered throughout the season include family bike games to practice maneuverability, visibility, and control, and a family group ride, or Kiddical Mass in June.

A special Family Bike Tune-up workshop covering the basics of bike maintenance in a playful and accessible way takes place on Thursday, April 13. Bike Nights falling on the second Thursday of each month will be family-friendly and fun for kids of all ages.
A special Family Bike Tune-up workshop covering the basics of bike maintenance in a playful and accessible way takes place on Thursday, April 13. Bike Nights falling on the second Thursday of each month will be family-friendly and fun for kids of all ages.

Once my bikes are ready to roll, I mostly use them for commuting to work or to run errands. I find that cycling lanes and paved trails make getting around Peterborough more convenient than getting in the car. Riding also gives me the opportunity to choose routes that are tucked away on trails along green spaces or that allow me to take in picturesque views Jackson Creek, Little Lake, or the Otonabee River along my way.

I have only been commuting on bike for about three years. It took some time to learn the routes that worked best for my most common destinations (while avoiding the hills), but getting to know the routes have been fun and rewarding. If you and your family are thinking about making the switch to bicycle commuting, check out Bike Night on the third Thursday of each month for workshops specifically focused on commuter skills, route planning, and gear talks that will build your confidence to get you on your bike.

For breathtaking views, take a family ride on the Trans Canada Trail through Jackson Park to the Orange Corners trestle bridge.
For breathtaking views, take a family ride on the Trans Canada Trail through Jackson Park to the Orange Corners trestle bridge.

Cycling is great for getting around, but on sunny weekends, I also enjoy taking the Trans Canada Trail through Jackson Park to the Orange Corners trestle bridge to take in the breathtaking views.

Peterborough also has many mapped road routes for those who love tackling hills and drumlins. What a great way to get fit and to also visit restaurants, pubs, and bakeries in the surrounding townships.

I was once told that you are not truly a “Peterborian” until you ride your bike to Lakefield for ice cream. After living in Peterborough for 15 years, I finally made the trip last spring — I’ve never tasted ice cream so delicious.

Never tried a longer, more scenic trip on your bike? Now is your chance.

Bike Night on the fourth Thursday of each month will focus on discovery rides. Group rides will visit parks, galleries, new trails, and gardens — and rumour has it, there is a buttertarts-by-bike trip being planned.

You can also check out five SPARK Spin routes offered this year as part of SPARK Photo Festival. Self-guided routes are available on-line, each with photo exhibit stops along the way. Routes travel through Peterborough, Lakefield, Bridgenorth, Douro, Campbellford, and Warkworth! Two guided tours will be led by GreenUP and SPARK, on April 8th and April 22nd.

Bike Night on the fourth Thursday of each month will be a group ride, visiting parks, galleries, new trails, and gardens (and possibly butter tarts)
Bike Night on the fourth Thursday of each month will be a group ride, visiting parks, galleries, new trails, and gardens (and possibly butter tarts)

No matter what type of cycling you enjoy, Peterborough is flush with options for every type of cyclist. Join Bike Night staring April 6th through to the end of September to build skills, gain confidence, learn the rules of the road, explore new routes, and have fun with your family.

Be sure to check out peterboroughmoves.com for registration details as some workshops have limited participant numbers. For more information contact Lindsay Stroud, GreenUP Manager of Transportation and Urban Design Programs at lindsay.stroud@greenup.on.ca or 705-745-3238 x209.

ALl photos courtesy of GreenUP.

Bruce Cockburn returns to Showplace in Peterborough for fall 2017 concert

Folk Under The Clock presents singer-songwriter and guitarist Bruce Cockburn at the Showplace Performance Centre in Peterborough on September 25, 2017. Hamilton's Terra Lightfoot will be opening. (Photo: Denna Bendall)

Bruce Cockburn, one of Canada’s most revered and respected songwriters and musicians, is returning to Peterborough this fall as part of a North American tour supporting his new record.

The September 25th concert at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) also features Hamilton’s Terra Lightfoot, who will be opening with a solo performance.

Tickets for the show, the debut concert in Folk Under The Clock’s 31st season, are $58 (includes HST and a $3 service fee) and go on sale Friday, April 7th, at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.

The 71-year-old Cockburn is releasing his new record, Bone On Bone, on September 8th. His first release since 2011’s Small Source of Comfort, Cockburn says “there’s a lot of rhythm on this album”, with blues, Latin folk, and a “touch of jazz”.

Bruce Cockburn in 1969 performing at the Riverboat Coffee House in Toronto's Yorkville. Other notable musicians who played the Riverboat include Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot, Murray Mclaughlan, James Taylor, and Simon and Garfunkel. (Photo: York University Archives)
Bruce Cockburn in 1969 performing at the Riverboat Coffee House in Toronto’s Yorkville. Other notable musicians who played the Riverboat include Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot, Murray Mclaughlan, James Taylor, and Simon and Garfunkel. (Photo: York University Archives)

Produced by Colin Linden, Bone On Bone also features bassist John Dymond (Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, k.d. lang, Wilkinsons), drummer Gary Craig (Blackie and the Rodeo Kings), and Cockburn’s nephew and accordionist John Aaron Cockburn. All three musicians will be backing Cockburn during his tour.

Born in 1945 in Ottawa, Cockburn started playing guitar as a child, playing along to the music of Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. After leaving high school, he travelled around Europe busking (he was arrested in Paris for performing without a license). When he returned to Canada, he attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston for two years before dropping out. Back in Ottawa, he met local poet and musician Bill Hawkins, who encouraged Cockburn to write his own songs.

In 1969, after years of playing in area bands and honing his chops, Cockburn decided to pursue a solo career.

Then living in Toronto, he met Bernie Finkelstein. who helped Cockburn create his first solo record in 1970 — the self-titled Bruce Cockburn. Finkelstein eventually became his manager and Cockburn was the first artist he signed to his True North record label (where Cockburn remains to this day, although Finkelstein sold the label in 2007).

The year 1969 was also when Cockburn encountered musician David “Fox” Watson, who would become a major influence on Cockburn’s guitar-playing style. Cockburn was performing with Colleen Peterson at a coffeehouse at the University of North Carolina where he met Watson, who performed fiddle tunes on guitar using a fingerstyle technique. Cockburn was already playing fingerstyle, but he also absorbed Watson’s technique; he named “Foxglove”, his most well-known fingerstyle tune, after Watson.

Over the next four years, Cockburn released an additional four records: High Winds White Sky, Sunwheel Dance, Night Vision, and Salt, Sun And Time. He also scored music for the iconic Canadian film Goin’ Down the Road .

In 1974, Cockburn converted to Christianity — although he was more spiritual than evangelical, his religious beliefs would prove to be a major influence on his future lyrics as well as his social conscience.

VIDEO: “Wondering Where The Lions Are” – Bruce Cockburn

In 1979, Cockburn had his first hit with “Wondering Where The Lions Are” from Dancing in the Dragon’s Jaws. When he performed the song on Saturday Night Live in 1980, he found a wide U.S. audience.

This was also when he divorced from his wife of 21 years, and Cockburn’s sound moved away from folk towards electrified rock.

After a 1983 trip to Central America as a representative for Oxfam, where he witnessed Guatemalan refugee camps in Mexico being attacked by Guatemalan military helicopters, he wrote “If I Had A Rocket Launcher” on Stealing Fire. It became his second hit, receiving heavy radio play throughout the U.S. and Canada. It has since become a staple of activist music.

In the 1990s, Cockburn returned to his folk roots, writing more introspective and roots-rock music, recording another hit with “Last Night of the World” from 1999’s Breakfast in New Orleans, Dinner in Timbuktu.

VIDEO: “If I Had A Rocket Launcher” – Bruce Cockburn

VIDEO: “Last Night of the World” – Bruce Cockburn

In all, Cockburn has written more than 310 songs on 31 albums, selling more than seven million records worldwide. He’s won 13 Juno Awards, the Allan Waters Humanitarian Award, nine honorary doctorates, the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. He has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and is an Officer of the Order of Canada.

In 2011, Canada Post issued a Bruce Cockburn stamp. Pacing the Cage, a documentary film about his life, music, and politics was released in 2013. His memoir, Rumours of Glory, was published by Harper Collins in 2014.

Bruce Cockburn has earned numerous awards and honours during his career, including this stamp issued by Canada Post in 2011 (photo: Canada Post)
Bruce Cockburn has earned numerous awards and honours during his career, including this stamp issued by Canada Post in 2011 (photo: Canada Post)

Cockburn has been an influence for many musicians, and his songs have been covered by artists such as Barenaked Ladies, Jimmy Buffett, Anne Murray, Ani DiFranco, k.d. lang, and many more.

Acoustic guitarists like the late Michael Hedges and Canada’s own Don Ross were inspired by Cockburn’s fingerstyle playing, particularly by instrumental tunes from earlier in his career like “Foxglove”, “Sunwheel Dance”, “Cader Idris”, and “Islands In A Black Sky.”

The Ottawa Folklore Centre even published a much-sought-after collection of Cockburn guitar tablature in 1986, called All The Diamonds – Selected Songs from 1967-1979, reprinting it again in 2013. Unfortunately, the book is out of print again as The Ottawa Folklore Centre went bankrupt and closed its doors in 2015.

VIDEO: Acoustic Guitar Sessions Presents Bruce Cockburn

Most recently, Cockburn hosted the 2017 Juno Songwriters’ Circle at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa on April 2nd — where the audience greeted him with a standing ovation — before joining Juno nominees Chantal Kreviazuk, Colin Linden, Daniel Caesar, Donovan Woods, Lisa LeBlanc, and Paul Murphy for a series of performances. The sets from this concert are being broadcast on CBC Radio this week.

Cockburn, who currently lives in San Francisco, is also well known as a social activist. He has visited Mozambique, Nepal, Vietnam, Baghdad, Nicaragua, and Guatemala to protest refugee camps, landmines, and Third World debt. He has been tirelessly vocal in support of native rights, the environment, the promotion of peace, and has highlighted the work of Oxfam, the UN Summit for Climate Control, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and Friends of the Earth.

Bruce Cockburn receiving the inaugural Folk Alliance International People's Voice Award in February 2017 from Kris Kristofferson (photo: Andrea Brookhart)
Bruce Cockburn receiving the inaugural Folk Alliance International People’s Voice Award in February 2017 from Kris Kristofferson (photo: Andrea Brookhart)

In February 2017, singer Kris Kristofferson presented Cockburn with the Folk Alliance International conference’s inaugural People’s Voice Award, in recognition of Cockburn’s role in social and political commentary. While accepting the honour, Cockburn took the opportunity to encourage other musicians to protect free speech under the Donald Trump administration.

“It seems evident that the current administration is not much interested in democracy … they are trying to stifle opposition across the board by a range of means. Looks to me like they’re just getting started. Who will end up being the last line in the defence of truth? Maybe you and me. It doesn’t mean we can’t sing love songs, but if you think you can keep your head down and ignore the political side of things, it’s liable to be waiting for you with a blackjack in the alley when you come out the stage door.”

“We could be in for a rough couple of years. We may get tired, but we have to keep singing, keep sharing.”

 

Terra Lightfoot

Hamilton singer-songwriter and rising star Terra Lightfoot will be opening for Bruce Cockburn with a solo performance (photo: Lisa MacIntosh)
Hamilton singer-songwriter and rising star Terra Lightfoot will be opening for Bruce Cockburn with a solo performance (photo: Lisa MacIntosh)

Opening for Cockburn at the September 25th show in Peterborough is Hamilton singer-songwriter Terra Lightfoot (no relation to Gordon) in a solo performance.

Previously a member of the alt-country band Dinner Belles, Lightfoot’s solo career took off with the release of her acclaimed sophomore record Every Time My Mind Runs Wild in 2015. Her soulful roots-rock sound is evident in that record’s hit, “Never Will”, which was shortlisted for the 2016 SOCAN Songwriting Prize.

VIDEO: “Never Will” – Terra Lightfoot

Since the release of that album, Lightfoot has toured relentlessly across North America, the UK, and Europe, playing hundreds of live dates. She’s performed alongside Emmylou Harris, Gordon Lightfoot (again, no relation), Ron Sexsmith, Built to Spill, Guided by Voices, The Both, Albert Lee, James Burton, Grace Potter, Bettye Lavette, Blue Rodeo, Randy Bachman, The Sadies, The Wood Brothers. and Daniel Lanois.

She received a Road Gold certification from the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA), an honour reserved for artists who sell at least 25,000 concert tickets within a 12-month period.

VIDEO: “Lily’s Fair” – Terra Lightfoot

In February, Lightfoot released her new album Live In Concert, which features orchestral arrangements of her original songs, through collaborations with the National Academy Orchestra of Canada. Those collaborations were staged and recorded in two hour-long shows on one night at McMaster University’s LIVELab, where Lightfoot was joined by special guest John-Angus MacDonald of The Trews.

As for supporting Bruce Cockburn on his current tour, that opportunity likely arose from the Vancouver Folk Music Fest in July 2016, when she performed just before he did.

“Bruce is an incredible talent and an amazing force live,” Lightfoot writes on her Facebook page. “I’m thrilled to now be joining him on tour.”

VIDEO: “No Hurry” – Terra Lightfoot

Peterborough Pulse wins national award

Peterborough Pulse has taken top honours at the 2017 Business Improvement Area National Conference. The inaugural event, held on the morning of Saturday, July 19, 2015, was a huge success, with over 1,000 people took advantage of the open streets to walk, cycle, skateboard, rollerblade and more through downtown Peterborough. The event expanded to a full day in in 2016 with more events and activities and attracted bigger crowds. It takes place this year on Saturday, July 15. (Photo: Peterborough Pulse)

Peterborough’s annual open street event, Peterborough Pulse, took top honours at the 2017 Business Improvement Area (BIA) National Conference.

The event won the award for Large Special Events & Promotions at the conference, which was hosted by the Ontario BIA Association in Toronto on Monday, April 3rd.

“Pulse has become one of our most exciting events and it’s wonderful to be recognized by our peers from BIAs across the country and show what Peterborough has to offer,” says Terry Guiel, Executive Director of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA).

Peterborough DBIA Executive Director Terry Guiel accepts the Large Special Events & Promotions award from OBIAA president Sue McDowell. Also pictured is Sam Sayer, DBIA Board Representative and owner of Sam's Place, and Joel Wiebe, DBIA Communications Manager. (Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA)
Peterborough DBIA Executive Director Terry Guiel accepts the Large Special Events & Promotions award from OBIAA president Sue McDowell. Also pictured is Sam Sayer, DBIA Board Representative and owner of Sam’s Place, and Joel Wiebe, DBIA Communications Manager. (Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA)

Peterborough Pulse returns in 2017 on Saturday, July 15th, when George Street will be transformed for one day into a car-free corridor.

The street will be filled with families pushing strollers, cyclists, and roller-skaters, and there will be Karate and Zumba demonstration, art displays, live music, and more.

In addition to the Peterborough DBIA, the event is supported by the City of Peterborough, GreenUP, Peterborough Bicyle Advisory Committee, B!KE, Peterborough Public Health, Peterborough Square, and various sponsors.

For more information on Peterborough Pulse, visit www.ptbopulse.com.

What’s new from the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism – April 5, 2017

Cindy Windover, President of the Board of the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism

A Note from Chamber Board President Cindy Windover

Hello Spring … kind of! I think I speak for everyone in saying I am so ready for warm weather, opening my windows and getting back outside to enjoy our beautiful Kawarthas!

It’s been a busy winter for the Chamber of Commerce, with a new board being elected and of course, once again, the concerns over the fate of LDIS. Read more.

 

Meet the Chamber 2017-18 Board of Directors

Two of the Chamber's 2017-18 Board of Directors: Tonya Kraan of STREXER is 1st Vice President and Mike Walker of Agilec is a Director at Large
Two of the Chamber’s 2017-18 Board of Directors: Tonya Kraan of STREXER is 1st Vice President and Mike Walker of Agilec is a Director at Large

Board Executive

  • Board President: Cindy Windover, Windover Plumbing
  • 1st Vice President: Tonya Kraan, STREXER
  • 2nd Vice President: Tom LaBranche, Village Pet Food & Supply
  • Treasurer: Kevan Herod, Herod Financial Services

Directors at Large

  • Brian Harrington, Clearview Cottage Resort
  • Bryan Kingdon, ISL Insurance Brokers
  • Chris Wilson, Let’s Get Digital
  • Garry Douglas, Kawartha Lakes Construction and North Kawartha Design
  • John Penny, JC Penny Accounting & Tax Services
  • Mike Walker, Agilec
  • Scott Matheson, C.I.B.C. Lakefield
  • Sheri Hockaday, Salon Sorella & Day Spa
  • Tracy Logan, Logan Tree Experts

Read full Board introductions.

 

Last week to apply for summer staff positions

The Chamber has three summer positions available for students
The Chamber has three summer positions available for students

Qualified candidates are invited to submit applications for three positions by Monday, April 10th.

Due to funding requirements, the employee must have been registered as a full-time college or university student during the preceding academic year and intending to return to school on a full-time basis during the next academic year. Additionally, the successful candidate must be under 30 years of age when beginning employment.

Visit www.kawarthachamber.ca/jobs for full details.

 

Online Marketing Strategies for first B.O.S.S. Seminar

Erin McLean, Jeannine Taylor, Chris Calbury, Rachel Sloan and Vikki Whitney
Erin McLean, Jeannine Taylor, Chris Calbury, Rachel Sloan and Vikki Whitney

The Chamber’s First B.O.S.S. (Business Owners Sharing Solutions) Seminar on March 30th covered a variety of topics relating to online marketing.

Moderator Jeannine Taylor of kawarthaNOW.com led the conversation with a panel of small business owners who discussed tips, tricks, and success stories relating to website mobile responsiveness, email campaigns, Facebook, and Instagram. Read more.

 

Upcoming Events

Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast

The annual Chamber Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast takes place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 19th at Frederick’s Restaurant at Beachwood Resort (3043 Beachwood Dr., Lakefield). The event features speaker Tessa Smith, Terry Fox Campaign Ambassador, and a full hot and cold buffet breakfast.

Admission is free for Chamber volunteers and Past Presidents and $20 for guests (inclusive). Register now.

Thanks to Chamber Professional Development Sponsor Lynn Woodcroft, Sales Representative, Royal LePage Frank Real Estate Brokerage, and Networking Event Sponsor Blue Diamond Siding & Window Cleaning.

 

Thank you Chamber Volunteers

The Kawartha Chamber depends on the support and expertise of its many dedicated volunteers
The Kawartha Chamber depends on the support and expertise of its many dedicated volunteers

With a small staff, the Kawartha Chamber depends on the support and expertise of many dedicated volunteers. April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and the Chamber would like to take this opportunity to thank the volunteers who have provided assistance in the past year. Board Members, Committee Members, and Event Volunteers: the Chamber thanks you for your continued support!

  • Adam McInroy, Investors Group
  • Brian Harrington, Clearview Cottage Resort
  • Bryan Kingdon, ISL Insurance
  • Chris Wilson, Let’s Get Digital
  • Cindy Windover, Windover Plumbing
  • Diane Caldwell, Young’s Point Personal Training Services
  • Emily Ferguson, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha
  • Emily St. Pierre, Community Volunteer
  • Eva Fisher, kawarthaNOW.com
  • Garry Douglas, Kawartha Lakes Construction and North Kawartha Design
  • Heather Sadler, EcoVue Consulting Services
  • Jhane Brasier, MAX Communication
  • Jennifer Rosborough, Rosborough Accounting
  • Jill Persson, Viamede Resort
  • John Penny, JC Penny Accounting & Tax Services
  • Karen Copson, Camp Kawartha
  • Kathy Newton
  • Keith Monk, Keith Monk Auction Service
  • Kevan Herod, Herod Financial Services
  • Kris Keller, RBC
  • Lorri Rork, Community Care
  • Lynn Woodcroft, Royal Lepage Frank Real Estate
  • Marlon Hazlewood, Hazlewood Images
  • Michael Gatschene, BDC
  • Michelle O’Neill, MAX Communication
  • Mike Walker, Agilec
  • Miles Gibney, Country 105/Energy 99.7
  • Paul Found, Community Volunteer
  • Roberta Herod, Herod Financial Services
  • Scott Matheson, CIBC
  • Sheri Hockaday, Salon Sorella & Day Spa
  • Sue Swankie, Swanky Events
  • Tammy Underwood, Hendren Funeral Homes
  • Tom LaBranche, Village Pet Food & Supply
  • Tom Podd, Ennismore Automotive Repair
  • Tonya Kraan, STREXER
  • Tracy Logan, Logan Tree Experts

 

7 Ways to Improve Your Business Over Lunch

Seven things you can do to the meter in your business in less time than it takes to wolf down a sandwich and check your voice mails
Seven things you can do to the meter in your business in less time than it takes to wolf down a sandwich and check your voice mails

Major overhauls of a business take time, buy-in, and frankly, they can be a little frightening. Not so of these mini tweaks. These seven things can help you move the meter in your business in less time than it takes to wolf down a sandwich and check your voice mails.

1. Find Out What They Like

Your customers are more valuable to your business than from just a revenue perspective … Read more.

 

Marketing Opportunity with kawarthaNOW.com

kawarthaNOW.com is offering a special marketing opportunity for Chamber members (graphic: kawarthaNOW.com)
kawarthaNOW.com is offering a special marketing opportunity for Chamber members (graphic: kawarthaNOW.com)

The Kawartha Chamber and kawarthaNOW.com have partnered to create a monthly affordable editorial campaign for Kawartha Chamber members. Choose the month that you wish to promote your business and reach a five county area with kawarthaNOW.com and over 200,000 unique readers monthly.

The feature is subsidized by the Chamber, and packed with extra social media promotion and extensive digital reach. Eva Fisher, Lifestyle Editor, will do the writing and leg work to create a great promotion for your business.

Contact kawarthaNOW.com today and we’ll email you the details — Holly Wilson Sales & Marketing, 705-928-2694 or Holly@kawarthaNOW.com, or Jeannine Taylor at the kawarthaNOW.com office at 705-742-6404 or JT@kawarthaNOW.com.

 

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.

Sample local cuisine at Junior Achievement’s Business Hall of Fame

Local food entrepreneurs are coming together to support the entrepreneurs of the future at the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase on May 25 at The Venue in downtown Peterborough. The Magic Rolling Pin will serve meringue nests with lemon curd and fresh berries. (Photo: The Magic Rolling Pin)

Some of the best food businesses in the Kawarthas will be showcasing their tastiest creations at this year’s Junior Achievement Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka (JA-PLM) Business Hall of Fame.

The event honouring local entrepreneurs takes place on Thursday, May 25th at The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-243-6996). As well as a culinary showcase, the event features dinner and an induction ceremony honouring Rhonda Barnet, Darrell Drain, John Bowes, Michael Skinner, Isadore Black, Jack McGee, Robert Young, and Joseph James (J.J.) Duffus.

Tickets are now available — they went on sale yesterday (April 3) and are selling fast.

The Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame, which doubles as a fundraiser for JA-PLM, will feature a variety of local food vendors set up throughout the venue. Attendees are encouraged to grab plates from different vendors as they mingle with the local business community.

In January 2017, Junior Achievement announced eight new inductees into the Business Hall of Fame, including Mike Skinner (second from left) and JJ Duffus (represented by his grandson Peter Duffus, standing next to Skinner). Also pictured are Junior Achievement's Marina Wilke (left), president and CEO John MCNutt (seated), board chair Paul Ayotte, and MaryBeth Miller. Tickets are now available for the induction ceremony taking place on May 25 at The Venue in Peterborough. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)
In January 2017, Junior Achievement announced eight new inductees into the Business Hall of Fame, including Mike Skinner (second from left) and JJ Duffus (represented by his grandson Peter Duffus, standing next to Skinner). Also pictured are Junior Achievement’s Marina Wilke (left), president and CEO John MCNutt (seated), board chair Paul Ayotte, and MaryBeth Miller. Tickets are now available for the induction ceremony taking place on May 25 at The Venue in Peterborough. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

Junior Achievement teaches students about entrepreneurship and financial literacy, so it’s appropriate that the food is being provided by local entrepreneurs. John McNutt, president and CEO of JA-PLM, says that these businesses embody what JA strives to teach.

John says that successful businesses start with great ideas.

“I think it comes with somebody having a good idea about a particular product.” He points out that each of the vendors offers something unique to the Kawartha food scene.

Popular local caterer BE Catering (356 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-750-1265) is providing a vegan and gluten-free entree. Their mini quinoa and local organic kale bowls also feature lemon and herb-grilled local asparagus, raw veggies, lemon tahini dressing, crunchy pepitas and local sprouts.

At the Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase, BE Catering is serving quinoa and local organic kale bowls with lemon and herb-grilled local asparagus, raw veggies, lemon tahini dressing, crunchy pepitas and local sprouts. (Photo: BE Catering)
At the Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase, BE Catering is serving quinoa and local organic kale bowls with lemon and herb-grilled local asparagus, raw veggies, lemon tahini dressing, crunchy pepitas and local sprouts. (Photo: BE Catering)

Chef and Proprietor Bonnie Kubica says that Junior Achievement provides a great benefit to local youth and to the community at large.

“Junior Achievement is very important in our community, because it fosters an experience of running a small business, and encourages youth to really follow their dreams and passions to contribute to our local economy. Junior Achievement offers interesting and innovative programs to help with financial literacy and mentorship with other small businesses. This really contributes to an interesting and diverse local community, and one with strong smart hard-working youth is always a great benefit.”

Fresh Dreams (138 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-742-2406) specializes in Spanish gastronomy. They will serve Pan Tumaka, a lightly toasted slice of bread with garlic rubbed on top, squeezed fresh tomato, salt from the Dead Sea and extra virgin Spanish olive oil. They will prepare it fresh on site so guests can see how it’s made.

Learn more about Spanish gastronomy at Fresh Dreams' booth at the Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase, where you can enjoy Pan Tumaka, a lightly toasted slice of bread with garlic rubbed on top, squeezed fresh tomato, salt from the Dead Sea and extra virgin Spanish olive oil. (Photo: Fresh Dreams)
Learn more about Spanish gastronomy at Fresh Dreams’ booth at the Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase, where you can enjoy Pan Tumaka, a lightly toasted slice of bread with garlic rubbed on top, squeezed fresh tomato, salt from the Dead Sea and extra virgin Spanish olive oil. (Photo: Fresh Dreams)

Fresh Dreams cofounder Alvaro De La Guardia says that Junior Achievement provides youth with the tools they need to succeed in business.

“Junior Achievement teaches and promotes business ideas to local youth through successful business mentors. They learn about the full process of entrepreneurship, from an idea to a final product. This gives youth, early on in life, the knowledge and tools for future business enterprises.”

The Magic Rolling Pin (302 King Street, Peterborough, 705-745-6556) will provide a dessert: whipped meringue nests with lemon curd and studded with fresh berries.

Owner and Chef Nick Wittek says that Junior Achievement promotes connection and strength within the community.

“We feel JA is important in the community as it helps connect business owners, entrepreneurs and companies to the youth of our future business world. It’s creating a strong foundation for all individuals in our community.”

Attendees at the Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase can refresh with coffee and looseleaf tea from Amusé Coffee Company. (Photo:  Amusé Coffee Company)
Attendees at the Business Hall of Fame Culinary Showcase can refresh with coffee and looseleaf tea from Amusé Coffee Company. (Photo: Amusé Coffee Company)

Coffee will be courtesy of french inspired coffee shop Amusé Coffee Company (641 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-874-7640), who will be serving Fair Trade Organic brewed coffee (including decaf) and premium loose tea.

Lindsay Brock, owner of Amusé Coffee Company, applauds Junior Achievement for teaching young people in our region how to succeed.

“Junior Achievement is is such an important resource for youth in our community. Its volunteers and supporters help to inspire and educate students and young entrepreneurs by providing tools to be prepared and successful in the workforce or in their own businesses.”

Attendees can also look forward to offerings from the Kawartha Golf and Country Club, Little Sweets, and more.

The food vendors at the Business Hall of Fame illustrate a deep partnership between JA-PLM and our business community. John says that having successful businesses to turn to is key to fulfilling Junior Achievement’s mandate.

“I believe there are opportunities and one of the things we talk about with the kids is how to look for the opportunities. Mentoring is a big part of it. Knowing that there is somebody you could call to give you advice.”

Investing in Junior Achievement fosters long-term economic vitality in our region. This helps to ensure that future entrepreneurs maintain Peterborough’s vibrant food scene. John says that JA-PLM encourages youth to define their own career path.

“We promote entrepreneurship as a way of life to young people, and it’s fair to say sometimes that a lot of these kids that are coming along now may want to look to creating their own job.” This keeps young people with great ideas in our community.

Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett speaks at the 2016 Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame at The Venue in Peterborough. In addition to the induction ceremony honouring eight local business people from the past and present this year's event features a culinary showcase and dinner. (Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka)
Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett speaks at the 2016 Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame at The Venue in Peterborough. In addition to the induction ceremony honouring eight local business people from the past and present this year’s event features a culinary showcase and dinner. (Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka)

Attending the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame is a fun way to get today’s best local food businesses of today while helping to support the culinary entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

Tickets are $100 per person and are now available online at eventbrite.ca or at the JA – PLM office (270 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-748-0024).

For updates on the Business Hall of Fame event, visit Junior Achievement on Facebook or Twitter.

Road cleared for $20 million redevelopment of two historic downtown Peterborough buildings

On April 3, 2017, Peterborough City Council voted to deny heritage designation to the properties at 144 Brock Street (The Pig's Ear Tavern) and 450 George Street North (The Black Horse Pub). The two properties adjoin the west and south sides of the Morrow Building, which received heritage designation in 1995. The decision paves the way for Parkview Homes to develop the two properties, although the developer's plans will be reviewed by council. (Photo: Google)

Despite several passionate pleas that two downtown Peterborough buildings be granted heritage designation to head off their possible demolition, Peterborough City Council has denied that designation, instead directing City staff to work closely with the buildings’ new owner on their redevelopment and that council have the final say on what those those plans are.

The two properties — 144 Brock Street (The Pig’s Ear Tavern) and 450 George Street North (The Black Horse Pub) — have been conditionally purchased by Parkview Homes whose owner and president Paul Dietrich has secured demolition permits for both structures as part of his plan to develop a combined 50 apartment units. The permits were sought with the signed permission of the current owners of both properties: John Punter and Lylie Ryder (144 Brock Street) and Ray Kapoor (450 George Street North).

However, after those permits were issued, the Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (PACAC) voted, on March 2, to recommend heritage designation be granted to both properties, which would prevent their outright demolition and severely restrict what modifications can be made to them. City staff subsequently recommended to council that PACAC’s heritage designation request be “deferred” and that “viable alternatives” to the buildings’ demolition be explored in co-operation with Parkview.

Having voted to receive staff’s report and attached recommendation as information, council (meeting as Committee of the Whole on March 27) directed staff to work with Parkview Homes on a design for both buildings that fits with that of the abutting heritage-designated Morrow Building at the northeast corner of George and Brock streets. That set the stage for a final vote on Monday night (April 3).

Among the number of people who spoke on the matter before council were three key players in the ultimate fate of the buildings: lawyer Jeff Ayotte representing Parkview Homes, PACAC chair Stewart Hamilton, and an emotional John Punter who, with his wife Lylie Ryder, conditionally sold the Pig’s Ear property to Parkview in January.

“We are vehemently opposed to a heritage designation being forced upon us,” said Punter, joined at the podium by his wife.

“As small business owners, we worked through the good times and the bad, secure in the knowledge that, some day, the tavern would play a major part in our retirement plans. In January, we accepted an offer (to purchase). Our ‘some day’ had arrived. Perhaps you can appreciate how shocked we are to learn that a heritage designation can be forced upon us, leaving our retirement plans in shreds.”

“We heard the term ‘hostile designation’ for the first time last Monday night (March 27). Until then, we mistakenly believed that the choice to designate was a property owner’s right. This well-hidden term is something people need to know about. Pay attention (property) owners. If they can do it to us, they can do it to you.”

Saying “This is a genie we can’t put back in the bottle,” Punter added it has been announced The Pig’s Ear is closing April 22nd. Monthly pub events have found new homes and longtime pub staff have made plans to move on.

Kapoor, meanwhile, while present, did not address council regarding the sale of his property. However, in a letter emailed to kawarthaNOW.com late last week, he commended Parkview Homes for a “new vision” at the centre of its desire to invest in, and revitalize, downtown Peterborough. He also urged residents to ask councillors to allow Parkview that opportunity.

For his part, Ayotte made Parkview’s plans for both properties clearer, lamenting what he termed “a degree of polarity” that has arisen with regard to Parkview’s development plans for, both properties.

“It seems to have been put before you by some as an all-or-nothing proposition,” Ayotte said. “Either you, as a council, take steps to preserve the architectural heritage of those two buildings or you allow for development.

“It doesn’t have to be that kind of choice. The architectural heritage of those two buildings does have to be respected and we are prepared to commit to work with (City) staff to ensure that the ultimate design does incorporate features that respect that architectural heritage. We don’t see it as an all-or-nothing thing.

“In a perfect world, it would be wonderful if a developer came along and said ‘I really would like to turn that into a boutique hotel with a pub and I’ve got an endless amount of dollars to do that’ but no one is coming before you saying that. The danger is if you do make this choice (impose heritage designation) you end up with heritage designated buildings which are empty and derelict. This is an opportunity; an opportunity to continue on the work of this council, and previous councils, have done to ensure the success of the downtown core.”

Ayotte added Parkview is “prepared to give the final say to (City) staff, and ultimately, council. We’re prepared to go back to staff for final approval (of the design) and here to council. This is not a difficult choice for you to make.”

In response to Councillor Gary Baldwin’s noting published media reports that Parkview is planning to demolish the two buildings as its secured permits allow, Ayotte didn’t clearly confirm or deny that intention. However, asked if the buildings’ facades will be preserved as part of any new design, Ayotte said that’s “financially unfeasible,” adding current building code requirements must be incorporated as part of any new design.

“Is it going to be the same bricks and mortar? No. Is it (the final design) going to be approved by you (council) and staff? Yes.”

The voices calling for heritage designation of both properties dominated the delegations list. Among the more noteworthy was that of PACAC chair Stewart Hamilton. PACAC, he noted, has advised city council on heritage designation matters for more than 40 years.

“Stating that this is an attempt at a hostile designation by the committee is completely out of line,” said Hamilton. “The fact is PACAC is empowered under the Heritage Act to advise council on matters of heritage … that is exactly what we did.

“We have a large wait list. Right now we have about eight other properties on a wait list. That’s about three years’ worth of work. Could these (heritage designation requests) have come sooner? Possibly, but there’s a wait list (for designation) already.”

Meanwhile, educating council on the historical significance of both structures was longtime local historian Elwood Jones. And Trent Valley Archives board member Guy Thompson noted his organization hosts popular tours of the downtown core which have historical buildings as their centerpiece.

“When historical buildings are torn down, a hole is left in our history,” Thompson said. “The downtown streets and buildings are foundations for stories that tell the beginnings of our city.”

Councillor Henry Clarke seconded Councillor Don Vassiliadis’ motion directing City staff to work with Parkview Homes to explore viable alternatives for heritage preservation and report back to council. Along with them, councillors Andrew Beamer, Lesley Parnell, Dan McWilliams, Keith Riel and Mayor Daryl Bennett voted in favour of the motion, with councillors Baldwin and Dianne Therrien voting against it.

Councillors Dave Haacke and Dean Pappas abstained from voting, have declared conflicts — Parkview is a client of Coun. Haacke’s real estate business and Coun. Pappas owns property near the two buildings.

Parkview Homes owner and president Paul Dietrich was present to hear the result of the vote, but declined comment afterwards.

However, in an earlier kawarthaNOW.com exclusive, he affirmed that a heritage designation placed on either building “would prevent any development moving forward.” He also acknowledged his full awareness of the historical significance of both structures, assuring that will be recognized, in some way, in the buildings’ redevelopment.

International Jazz Day Peterborough celebrates Thelonius Monk

International Jazz Day Peterborough is celebrating the 100th birthday of late legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk with a tribute concert by The Steve Wallace Quintet at Showplace

For the uninitiated, the best way to encapsulate the essence of jazz is akin to the art of conversation, with little sense of predetermined structure beyond that first ‘hello.’ To that end, the jazz world will reverberate with musical conversation on April 30th during the UN-sanctioned International Jazz Day, with concerts and events throughout the globe.

As well as a headline concert on April 30, International Jazz Day Peterborough includes "Dine with Jazz" events at five downtown Peterborough restaurants on April 29 (poster:  International Jazz Day Peterborough)
As well as a headline concert on April 30, International Jazz Day Peterborough includes “Dine with Jazz” events at five downtown Peterborough restaurants on April 29 (poster: International Jazz Day Peterborough)

Peterborough is no exception, with the small but loyal jazz community staging its third event in as many years at the end of the month.

International Jazz Day Peterborough, which is to be officially proclaimed by His Worship Mayor Daryl Bennett for the last day of the month, will be preceded by the weekly ‘jazz jam’ at the Black Horse Pub on the evening of Thursday, April 27th, followed on Saturday by ‘Dine with Jazz’ at a collection of downtown restaurants on Saturday as well as a jazz film and vinyl event.

The primary concert on the evening of International Jazz Day itself, on Sunday, will be staged downstairs in the Nexicom Studio at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469).

“Some of the best players in the country are coming up,” says Craig Paterson, a local musician and retired teacher who co-founded the series in 2015 with Chelsea Bennett. Paterson notes that a fifth restaurant has been added this year.

Organizers have also chosen to take a cue from the 100th anniversary of the birth of a jazz legend with the screening of Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser at Catalina’s (131 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-5972) on the Saturday at 8:45 p.m.

The International Jazz Day show at the Nexicom Studio will also showcase the music of Thelonious Monk exclusively, with a tribute performed by The Steve Wallace Quintet.

Bassist Steve Wallace will be joined by Perry White on saxophone, Terry Clarke on the skins, Mark Eisenman tickling the ivories, and Kevin Turcotte blowing trumpet. Turcotte, as it turns out, was the featured player on the soundtrack of Born to Be Blue, the 2015 feature film starring Ethan Hawke based on the life and career of jazz legend Chet Baker, and his comeback in the 1960s. The trumpet you hear in the film is pure Turcotte.

VIDEO: Ethan Hawke as Chet Baker in “Born to be Blue”, with trumpet by Kevin Turcotte

Steve Wallace — no stranger to the Peterborough jazz scene — serves as band leader this time around. Wallace has played with the likes of Oscar Peterson, Rob McConnell, and Ed Bickert — and back in the 1980s as a sideman during recording sessions with Rosemary Clooney and Mel Torme, among others. Wallace collected a Juno in 2000 as a founding member of the Mike Murley Trio.

Steve Wallace
Steve Wallace

Drummer Terry Clarke also has a Juno on his shelf for “It’s About Time” released in 2010. But the Toronto-based Clarke originally cut his chops in the 1960s, playing with the legendary John Handy in San Francisco. His career has taken him through New York City and beyond.

Terry Clarke
Terry Clarke

Toronto-based Mark Eisenman (piano) has performed and toured with everybody from Ed Bickert and Rob McConnell, to Blue Mitchell and Woody Shaw.

Mark Eisenman
Mark Eisenman

Perry White (sax) has played with Holly Cole, The Shuffle Demons, Rob McConnell’s Boss Brass and David Foster, among others.

Perry White
Perry White

The musicians featured at the five restaurants during the Dine with Jazz event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday are no slouches, either.

Biff Hannon (piano), who now calls Peterborough home, has toured with Buddy Rich, Maynard Ferguson and Doc Severinson. He’ll be joined by accomplished Peterborough singer Donna Collison at Curry Village (306 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-1432).

Donna Collison and Biff Hannon
Donna Collison and Biff Hannon

At The Lounge by Lignum (442 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-775-9463), Dave Young (bass), who has played with the likes of Oscar Peterson, will back Steve Holt (piano), who has led his own trios and quartets over the years while tickling the ivories with Pat LaBarbera and Archie Shepp.

Steve Holt and Dave Young
Steve Holt and Dave Young

Mike Francis (guitar) has recorded with everybody from Joe Sealey and Jackie Richardson, to Nelly Furtado and Natalie McMaster. He’ll be joined by bassist Neal Davis at La Hacienda (90 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-742-1559).

Mike Francis and Neil Davis
Mike Francis and Neil Davis

Peterborough’s own Pete Woolidge will be on the keys at Hot Belly Mama’s (378 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-745-3544) with Federico Pontani on guitar.

Pete Woolidge and Federico Pontani
Pete Woolidge and Federico Pontani

Guitarist Mike Graham will be accompanied at Brio Gusto (182 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-745-6100) by bassist Dennis Pendrith — a name any fan of CBC’s Vinyl Café with the late Stuart McLean will know well.

Dennis Pendrith and Mike Graham
Dennis Pendrith and Mike Graham

Paterson stresses the wisdom in making reservations at your restaurant of choice well in advance.

Tickets for the Sunday performance are $30 and can be purchased in advance at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the show but, given the pedigree of the musicians performing, booking tickets in advance would be a wise choice.

Tickets for the 8:45 p.m. film screening of the Monk documentary at Catalina’s are $10 at the door on a first-come, first-served basis. There will also be a ‘vinyl spinning’ session following the film. Enthusiasts are encouraged to bring their fave jazz vinyl along.

VIDEO: “‘Round Midnight” performed by Thelonious Monk

Paterson, who co-chairs the event this year with John Fautley, notes that they decided to separate the Dine with Jazz event and the marquee concert by a day, as they found in the past that patrons were rushing through their dinner to get to the show.

“It’s a great way to introduce patrons to jazz,” Paterson says, “as the musicians will be playing more mainstream fare. The Sunday show at the Nexicom Studio will be a little more challenging.”

But that’s the thing about jazz: the spontaneity that comes with improvisation. Jazz, in its purest form, notes Paterson, is “a spontaneous, creative process that is unique.

“Musicians will agree to play a certain way, to a certain form but that’s the only template. The rest is a form of improvisation and unless it happens to be recorded, that performance will never be re-created exactly.”

Bassist Craig Paterson has helped organize International Jazz Day Peterborough since its inception in 2015. This year, he's co-chairing the event with John Fautley.
Bassist Craig Paterson has helped organize International Jazz Day Peterborough since its inception in 2015. This year, he’s co-chairing the event with John Fautley.

Paterson is the first to admit that jazz doesn’t appeal to everybody.

“It can be challenging music to both play and enjoy,” he says. But fans “who get it” are loyal and revel in the genre.

Remembering back to his student days, Paterson muses about the feasibility of adding an educational component to the event in future years, with perhaps a showcase of performances from high school jazz bands, or workshops involving visiting musicians and budding jazz enthusiasts.

For now, the stand-up bass player is looking forward to Peterborough’s contribution to International Jazz Day in the unique setting that is the city’s cherished downtown core, with its funky and eclectic mix of restaurants and performance venues that lends itself so well to an event such as this.

The last word goes to Chick Corea: “It’s the spirit of this music that we play,” said the legendary jazz pianist during the Kongsberg Jazz Festival in 1989.

“Improvised — always something new, something that isn’t planned. It’s always a surprise.”

For more information about International Jazz Day Peterborough, visit www.facebook.com/pg/internationaljazzdaypeterborough/.

Peterborough’s LLF Lawyers expands into Bobcaygeon

Bobcaygeon lawyer Robert Walker with his two staff Adriana and Cheryl have joined LLF Lawyers and will continue practicing law at their current location under the name LLF Lawyers Bobcaygeon (supplied photo)

The Bobcaygeon law firm of Robert J. Walker has joined the Peterborough firm LLF Lawyers.

Walker and his two staff will now operate under the name LLF Lawyers Bobcaygeon at their current location, at the corner of King Street West and Bolton Street in Bobcaygeon.

Walker has practiced law in the Bobcaygeon area for 40 years, providing legal counsel to hundreds of local businesses, community groups, and individualse.

“I had been considering my succession plan for some time, but wasn’t sure what direction it would take,” Walker says. “It was important to me that my clients continue to receive timely and effective advice for all of their various needs. To have the opportunity to achieve this by working with a firm known for expertise in many areas and excellent service was an easy decision.”

In Peterborough, LLF Lawyers is located at 332 Aylmer Street and employs 18 lawyers and 36 support staff.

“Clients in the Bobcaygeon area will now have available to them the experience and expertise of a full-service law firm,” says Bill Lockington, Senior Partner at LLF Lawyers. “We are looking forward to working with Mr. Walker’s clients and being part of the Bobcaygeon community.”

For more information on LLF Lawyers, visit www.llf.ca.

New summer incubator program in Peterborough for young entrepreneurs

Young entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 29 can apply for the Innovation Cluster's new Slingshot program

The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas and FastStart Peterborough have announced Slingshot, Peterborough’s first summer incubation program for young entrepreneurs.

From May to June, Slingshot will provide six entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 29 with coworking space in the new Cube in downtown Peterborough, tools, resources, and funding opportunities to grow their business — ae value of $5,000.

Interested youth should apply at www.innovationcluster.ca/slingshot/ by midnight on Monday, April 24th.

The deadline to apply for Slingshot is April 24 (graphic:  Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas)
The deadline to apply for Slingshot is April 24 (graphic: Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas)

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 29, planning to start their company in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, and either have an idea for a company or have been operational for under one year. Youth from outside of the region can also apply, but only if they are willing to move to the region.

While the Innovation Cluster focuses on innovation and technology startups, Slingshot will also accept applications from young entrepreneurs who wish to provide goods and services.

The six successful applicants will move into the Cube to begin working on their company on Monday, May 1st. At the end of the summer, the most successful company will receive a $1,000 cash prize along with other prizes.

musicNOW – April 2017

Juno-winning songwriter Amelia Curran will join Tim Baker, Donovan Woods, and Hawksley Workman for a night of music and conversation in "The Writes of Spring" at Peterborough's Market Hall on April 27 (publicity photo)

It’s April and spring is in the air — and so is excellent music. There’s something for everybody in Peterborough and the Kawarthas during the course of the month. Here are some interesting concerts to check out in April.


Jason Petty as Hank Williams at Showplace in Peterborough on April 4

Fans of Hank Williams can relive his greatest songs at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) on Tuesday, April 4th when “Hank Williams: The Lonesome Tour” takes the stage.

Jason Petty transforms into the old-school country music legend, telling intimate stories about the man and singing his tunes. Petty began portraying Williams in 1996 at the world famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, which led to several tours across the U.S. and Canada. Don Helms, Hank William’s best friend and steel guitar player, says “Jason’s singing of Williams’ classic songs is the best there’s ever been”.

The show begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are $52.50, available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org

VIDEO: “Hank Williams: The Lonesome Tour” promo

 

La Jeunesse Youth Orchestra at the Calvary Pentecostal Church in Port Hope on April 8

A unique event combines food with classical music on Saturday, April 8th at the Calvary Pentecostal Church (401 Croft St., Port Hope).

“Soup and Symphony” offers a selection of delicious soups donated by local restaurants and a silent auction, with brilliant music provided by La Jeunesse Youth Orchestra.

The luncheon runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and is a fundraiser for the orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children and are available at the door or in advance by calling 1-866-460-5596.

VIDEO: La Jeunesse Youth Orchestra

 

Classic Albums Live: “Are You Experienced” at Showplace in Peterborough on April 8

Fans of classic rock and electric guitar will want to head to Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469) on Saturday, April 8th when guitarist Clifton David Broadbridge comes to town to perform The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s 1967 record “Are You Experienced” in its entirety, note for note, as part of the Classic Albums Live series.

Broadbridge is considered one of the best performers of Hendrix’s music — he’s perfected the feedback and distortion technique Hendrix’s playing is known for. Along with a drummer and bass player, Broadbridge will be performing classic Hendrix tunes including “Purple Haze”, “Manic Depression”, “Hey Joe”, “The Wind Cries Mary”, “Fire”, and “Foxy Lady”.

Tickets are $35.50 and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org

VIDEO: Clifton David Broadbridge plays Jimi Hendrix

 

Hillary Dumoulin at the Gordon Best in Peterborough on April 8

Local singer-songwriter Hillary Dumoulin will play a show at the Gordon Best Theatre (216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-876-8884) on Saturday, April 8th, along with Steve Dumoulin, Michaela Hetherington, Everett Payne, and powerhouse band Broken Harmony,

Tickets are $10 and are available in advance at ticketscene.ca or from any of the performers.

It’s general admission and the doors open at 7 p.m. with the music starting at 8 p.m.

VIDEO: “Mom’s Song” – Hillary Dumoulin

 

Martin Barre of Jethro Tull at the Market Hall in Peterborough on April 11

Then’s even more music for fans of classic rock just few days later, when the Martin Barre Band fills Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) with the sounds of pioneer rock band Jethro Tull on Tuesday, April 11th at 8 p.m.

Barre, who was the lead guitarist for the English progressive rockers since 1969, has been touring solidly for a few years now playing classic Tull hits like “Thick as a Brick”, “Sweet Dream”, and “Locomotive Breath” and bringing to the fore some of his own original music. There will be great music with some surprise twists thrown in for good measure.

Tickets range from $35 to $75 and are available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Tickets are also available (cash only) for Row C annd Tables 8 and 18 at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

VIDEO: “Thick as a Brick” – Martin Barre Band

 

Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer at the Market Hall in Peterborough on April 14

Acclaimed Vancouver duo Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer (Shawn Hall and Matthew Rogers) roll into town on Friday, April 14th with a performance at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146)

Don’t be thrown off by the band’s unusual name (“harpoon” and “axe” are nicknames for the harmonica and guitar): Hall and Rogers’ music simmers with a raw blues style infused with some unique sounds. Electric guitar, an “arsenal of harmonicas”, and a whole lot of foot percussion bring their music to life.

The show has an 8 p.m. start. Tickets are $25 for regular seats, $20 for students, and $30 for a cabaret table seat. Get your tickets at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Tickets are also available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

VIDEO: Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer

 

Jackson Delta at the Market Hall in Peterborough on April 15

Just a night later it’s Peterborough’s own iconic blues group Jackson Delta reuniting and taking the stage at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Saturday, April 15th.

The three-headed monster includes the great Rick Fines, Gary Peeples, and Al Black. For one night only, you can catch a rare performance by the acoustic blues group that made waves in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Jackson Delta toured the folk and blues festival circuit in North America and the UK extensively, being nominated for and winning a host of awards.

Tickets are $30 plus fees for regular seats and $40 plus fees for table seats. Tickets are available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org and for cash only at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

VIDEO: Jackson Delta – Slight Return

 

Ron Hawkins at the Garnet in Peterborough on April 22

Talk about intimate and interactive!

Ron Hawkins, from 1990s rock band The Lowest of the Low, will be performing solo at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Saturday, April 22nd.

Great tunes from a big catalog of music will combine with stories of life on the road and a career in music. The revered contemporary songwriter weaves smart lyrics around catchy numbers.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance, available at The Garnet, or $15 at the door. There are very limited tickets so get yours soon.

VIDEO: “Peace and Quiet” – Ron Hawkins

 

Owen Meany’s Batting Stance at the Garnet in Peterborough on April 24

Owen Meany’s Batting Stance (a.k.a. Daniel Walker) is coming to The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Monday, April 24th.

Halifax has a long history of turning out great music from a wide array of genres. There is a certain Halifax sound and Owen Meany’s Batting Stance represents it very well. It is sort of scrappy, yet heartfelt sound, which Walker describes as “engaged, electrically charged acoustic guitar, teeming with emotive energy rounded by percussion and bass.”

Tickets are available at the door and the show begins around 9 p.m.

VIDEO: “Dissonance” – Owen Meany’s Batting Stance

 

Whiskey Jack at the Capitol Theatre in Port Hope on April 28

There’s no better way to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday than by singing along with the songs of legendary Canadian musician Stompin’ Tom Connors.

Although Stompin’ Tom passed away in 2013, his long-time touring band Whiskey Jack continues to perform his tunes. They’ll be presenting the stories and songs of Stompin’ Tom at Cameco Capitol Arts Centre (20 Queen St., Port Hope, 905-885-1071) at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 28th.

It’ll be a night of truly Canadian patriotism with tunes like “Bud the Spud”, “Sudbury Saturday Night”, “It’s Canada Day”, “Confederation Bridge”, “Believe in your Country”, and “The Hockey Song”.

Tickets are $39 and are available at the Capitol Box Office or online at www.capitoltheatre.com.

VIDEO: “The Hockey Song” by Stompin’ Tom performed by Whiskey Jack

 

The Writes of Spring at the Market Hall in Peterborough on April 27

Songs and stories will be at the forefront on Thursday, April 27th when four iconic Canadian songwriters descend on Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) for “The Writes of Spring”.

The show features great lyricist and singer Tim Baker (songwriter and frontman for St. John’s group Hey Rosetta!), fellow Newfoundlander and Juno winner Amelia Curran, Polaris and Juno nominee Donovan Woods, and performer, artist, and writer extraordinaire Hawksley Workman. Talk about a great group of talent!

Tickets are $39.50 plus fees and the show begins at 8 p.m. Get your tickets at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org. Tickets for Row C and H are also available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).

VIDEO: “Seventeen” – Tim Baker

VIDEO: “Gravity” – Amelia Curran

VIDEO: “What They Mean” – Donovan Woods

VIDEO: “Almost A Full Moon” – Hawksley Workman

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