Public Energy presents "Music Creates Opportunity", a performance by Ottawa/Gatineau dance company Bboyizm, on February 11 at Peterborough's Market Hall. Bboyizm artistic director, choreographer, and dancer Crazy Smooth will participate in a Q&A after the performance.
Yvon Soglo (aka Crazy Smooth, or Smooth to his friends), the Artistic Director of Ottawa/Gatineau dance company Bboyizm, grew up with dance — but not the way you might think.
Public Energy presents “Music Creates Opportunity”
When: Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 8 p.m. Where: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough) How much: $24 ($17 students/underwaged, $8 high school students)
A performance by Crazy Smooth and his Bboyzim dance company. Tickets available at the Market Hall Box Office, by phone at 705-749-1146, or online at markethall.org. Win a pair of tickets!
He listened to funk and hip hop. He watched cyphers form at school dances, but never joined in. He didn’t consider himself a dancer; he was an athlete.
In 1984, a movie came out that changed everything: Breakin’ staring Lucinda Dickey, Adolfo Quinones, and Michael Chambers. Smooth saw street dance on screen like he had never seen it, and it sparked something in him. He started to practice obsessively in the basement, watching recorded videos of street dance on VHS over and over again.
In 1999, Crazy Smooth (not yet honoured with his street dance name) went to New York for the Rock Steady Anniversary. There he saw live hip hop culture for the first time, beyond TV and VHS. These were real live dancers, performing in front of him.
From this point on he never stopped dancing. He was given the name Crazy Smooth by his street dance peers, out of respect. The best words to describe his style are exactly that: crazy, smooth.
He began to explore the subtleties of street dance, what he calls “the izm”. Smooth was interested in bboying beyond tricks. He wanted to go beyond athleticism and dynamic movement and wanted his audiences to feel the dance. Smooth’s interest in Bboying grew to include other styles like Rocking, House, and Pantsula.
Crazy Smooth and his company Bboyizm, based out of Ottawa/Gatineau, are doing something different than many other Canadian dance troupes. Contemporary dance companies often borrow elements from street dance, specifically ‘tricks,’ athletic feats of dynamic movement, without taking the time to study the styles in depth.
B-boy is a short form of “break boy”, a practitioner of breaking (called breakdancing in popular culture), a style of street dancing that originated in the Bronx in the 1970s. The term “B-boy” or “B-boying” was created by Kool Herc, a DJ spinning at block parties in the Bronx.
At times, this results in ’empty’ movements and gestures, dance elements which are not grounded by context, history, and a sense of origin. Crazy Smooth is critical of street dance which has been diluted in the name of fusion and hybrids.
For this reason, Bboyizm’s brand of street dance is aimed at preserving the purity, individuality, and authenticity of original street dance styles such as: Bboying, House, Rocking, and Pantsula — originating from Soweto, South Africa.
Another question in street dance is whether or not these dances should be performed for the stage. Some street dance artists are critical of dancers who perform these styles on stage in front of audiences, citing that true street dance belongs in its original setting, in neighborhoods, streets, and public spaces.
Bboyizm in performance
Other dance artists such as Crazy Smooth disagree. He believes that street dance, for him, is a vehicle to deliver a broader message, and when you are trying to communicate something, wider audiences are important. The stage becomes a platform. A chance to speak to new audiences through movement, to resonate with new minds, and to declare “this is what I’m saying.”
Win a pair of tickets!
kawarthaNOW is giving away a pair of tickets to see “Music Creates Opportunity” performed by Bboyizm, courtesy of Public Energy.
Bboyizm performs “Music Creates Opportunity” on Saturday, February 11th at 8 p.m. at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough). There’ll be a question-and-answer session with choreographer Crazy Smooth immediately following the performance.
Tickets are $24 for general admission ($17 for students or the underwaged, and $8 for high school students).
To order tickets, visit the Market Hall Box Office, call 705-749-1146, or order online at markethall.org. Note: high school student tickets are not available online.
For more information about Public Energy and other upcoming performances, visit publicenergy.ca.
VIDEO: “All day i dream about dance” – Bboyizm
This guest post is by Victoria Mohr-Blakeney, Performance Curator and 2016-2017 Metcalf Foundation Intern at Public Energy. All photos courtesy of Bboyizm.
A scene from 4th Line Theatre's 2007 production of Leanna Brodie's Schoolhouse. The Millbrook outdoor theatre company is hosting a public staged reading of the play, with aspiring actors from a workshop earlier in the day, on the afternoon of Saturday, February 4. (Photo: Wayne Eardley, Brookside Studio)
4th Line Theatre, the acclaimed outdoor theatre company located in Millbrook, is preparing for its 2017 summer season with a free theatre workshop and staged reading on Saturday, February 4th, followed by the official opening of the theatre’s box office on Monday, February 6th.
On Saturday, February 4th, the theatre company is hosting a free theatre workshop for aspiring actors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a free staged reading for the public. The workshop and reading will be of Leanna Brodie’s Schoolhouse, ne of the most popular plays that 4th Line has ever produced.
The play, about one-room schools and the teachers who led them, includes many lead roles for young actors. During the workshop, actors will work with 4th Line Theatre’s Managing Artistic Director Kim Blackwell and Creative Director Robert Winslow.
“This workshop is an opportunity to involve folks from our wonderful and talented community in an off-season artistic project,” Blackwell says. Blackwell will direct the reading and Winslow will work alongside volunteers as an actor in the workshop and reading.
While the theatre workshop has already been cast, there are still seats available for the staged reading, which takes place at 4 p.m. at Centreville Presbyterian Church (574 County Rd 28, Bailieboro). Seating is limited and admission is free.
If you want to attend the staged reading, call the 4th Line Theatre box office at 705-932-4448 before 5 p.m. on Friday, February 3rd to reserve a seat. If you can’t reserve a seat, you are still welcome to show up, as seats may still be available.
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 is also opening its box office to the public for ticket purchases and gift certificate redemptions for the 2017 summer season on Monday, February 6th.
This July, 4th Line Theatre will be staging the world premiere of David S. Craig’s Bombers: Reaping the Whirlwind. Directed by David Ferry, the play tells the story of Peter, a man in his nineties, who is 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, the story follows Canadian bomber crews as they struggle to win the war. This action-packed epic has romance, danger, and music.
In August, the theatre company will also present another world premiere; The History of Drinking in Cavan. Written and directed by Robert Winslow, the play looks at alcohol consumption (or the lack thereof) in the local area over the past 200 years. Winslow and his alter-ego (King the town drunk) will take audiences on a wild historical ride from the early days of Irish settlement in the township through to present-day drinking practices.
The play veers from the anecdotal to the personal and from the outrageous to the serious, as Winslow shares the rich stories of local residents and his own experiences growing up in Cavan.
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)
Beginning on February 6th, you can purchase tickets or gift certificates for the 2017 season at 4th Line Theatre’s Box Office (4 Tupper St., Millbrook) or at the ticket outlet at the Peterborough Museum & Archives (300 Hunter St. E., Peterborough, 705-743-5180). You can also call 705-932-4445 or visit 4thlinetheatre.on.ca.
If you book tickets for a group of 12 or more, you’ll save $1 on each ticket and, if booking 25 or more tickets, you’ll save $2 per ticket. All groups get reserved seating, based on availability.
Activist, actor, writer, comic, international speaker, and award-winning TV and CBC radio personality Candy Palmater will be one of three keynote speakers at Peterborough's first International Women's Day Conference on March 8, 2017 (photo: Dustin Rabin / CBC)
Candy Palmater remembers the first joke she ever told.
She’d been so shy as a child that her mother had enrolled her in majorettes to “help bring her out of her shell.”
Women’s Business Network of Peterborough hosts International Women’s Day Conference
When: Wednesday, March 8, 2017 from 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Where: Ashburnham Reception Centre (840 Armour Rd., Peterborough) How much: $145
Featuring keynote speakers Candy Palmater, Sarah Vermunt, and Linda Kash and six breakout workshop sessions. Ticket price includes three keynote speakers, two 90-minute workshop sessions, and breakfast and lunch. For more information and to register, visit www.iwdptbo.ca. Fewer than 20 seats left!
“The room was full of grown-ups, and I told this joke and it cracked the room up,” Palmater says. “That felt kinda good. And I remember my mom looking at me with a sense of ‘Wow, I can’t believe that’s my kid!'”
“That was the first hint of things to come,” she says, although she adds it wasn’t until much later she realized that humour was actually serious business.
In fact, all joking aside, Palmater’s first career was as a lawyer.
“I went back and forth in high school, wanting to be a brain surgeon, and a judge, but I always came back to lawyer, so I went to law school,” she says.
Palmater was born to a white mother and Mi’kmaw father in Point La Nim, New Brunswick. She now refers to herself as a “gay native recovered lawyer turned feminist comic.”
Her television experience includes her own comedy variety program on APTN The Candy Show, as well as a recurring role on Trailer Park Boys. She had a radio program on CBC, and currently participates as a panelist in the 2017 Canada Reads project while owning a vibrant business as a motivational speaker.
Candy Palmater is the creator and star of The Candy Show, a national award-winning TV series broadcast on APTN (photo: Stoo Metz)
It’s as a motivational speaker that Palmater will bring her unique brand of “serious humour” to Peterborough area women. She is one of three keynote speakers at Peterborough’s first International Women’s Day Conference, hosted by the Women’s Business Network, that takes place on Wednesday, March 8th at the Ashburnham Reception Centre.
In her words, the experience of corporate law fit Palmater “like a bad suit.” After the novelty wore off of a big glass office tower and staff whose job it was to get coffee, Palmater knew she had to jump ship.
A few other things played into the decision: Palmater had also awakened to her sexual identity; that led to a phone call to her boyfriend in which she said “I’m gay, I love you, goodbye.”
The perfect storm of life events also included a conversation with her dying brother, who impressed on Palmater that time was a precious gift. When trying to decide what to do with her life, she was determined that she would live each day as if she would die the next without regret, having left nothing undone.
It’s at this crossroads in her life that the 32-year-old “recovered lawyer” says she fell back on that long-ago lesson she’d learned in the room full of grown-ups when she was a shy, young majorette.
Enter the new Candy Palmater, who says trying her hand at the performance was the “best decision she ever made.” She’s been a resounding success, and continues to engage and inspire crowds wherever she goes.
VIDEO: Candy Palmater at the 2013 Indspire Awards
A defining moment for Palmater came shortly after her move into the world of comedy and it took her deep into a new realm. She was asked to cheer up the victims of residential school abuse after they gave testimony to a government committee about their abusive experiences. At first Palmater said it wasn’t a “good fit.” But when an Mi’kmaw elder called her and requested her attendance, there was really, in her mind, no option.
“You don’t say ‘no’ to an elder,” she says.
So, she did the gig, and after her performance in front of 500 survivors and their families, many thanked her.
But it was something else that curiously happened after that gig that took Palmater deeper into the psychology of humour. When the survivors thanked her for her speech, they also whispered in her ear, “Thank you so much, Candy, I spent five years in residential school” or “Thank you, I spent three years there.” And on it went.
“They were wanting me to witness their pain,” she says now. “I realized then how serious this funny business really is.”
Now, Palmater says she is gentle with her humour, she is careful, and she makes a promise: you’ll never go away feeling bad.
You will, however, go away inspired, because if Palmater’s own story isn’t enough — and there’s a few secrets she is keeping back to reveal to her Peterborough audience — she will leave you with new tools for your toolbox. And while she’s at it, she’ll help you clear out the old tools that you don’t need anymore.
“Humour is an incredible healer,” Palmater says. “It’s really no coincidence that when you laugh really hard, you also cry.”
Don’t miss your chance to hear Palmater speak at International Women’s Day Conference Peterborough, as there are fewer than 20 seats left! For more information about the conference and to register, visit www.iwdptbo.ca.
VIDEO: Candy Palmater: 5 Authors That Changed My Life
Best known for her Juno award winning band Chic Gamine, Winnipeg's Begonia (Alexa Dirks) will perform at The Red Dog in Peterborough on Tuesday, February 7, along with special guest Modest Apollo. Begonia will also be releasing her new five-song EP Lady in Mind next week. (Photo: Begonia)
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, February 2 to Wednesday, February 8.
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.
10pm - Battle of the Bands (Jeremiah TaylorX vs Wining It)
Saturday, February 4
2-5pm & 10pm - Broken Harmony
Wednesdays
8pm - Open mic w/ host Marty Hepburn
Coming Soon
Friday, February 10 Battle of the Bands - Finals
Saturday, February 11 Jake Chisolm Band ft Daryl Yates
The Garnet
231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 874-0107
Thursday, February 2
Mattie Leon, Scott Somerville, Mary-Kate Edwards
Friday, February 3
5-7pm - Chester Babcock; 8:30pm - Evangeline Gentle, Moonfruits, The Lifers ($10 or PWYC)
Saturday, February 4
5-7pm - Little Fire; 9pm - The Venisons, Sun RaRaRa
Coming Soon
Saturday, February 11 4-7pm - Show and Tell Poetry Series; 9pm - ENiiD (Carol Goodman), Jamie Gia
Sunday, February 12 2:30-6:30pm - Blue Valentine Willie P. Bennet Tribute
George & Orange Taproom & Kitchen
67 Orange St., Cobourg
(289) 252-0227
Thursdays
8-11pm - Open mic
Gordon Best Theatre
216 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
(705) 876-8884
Coming Soon
Friday, February 10 5pm - Cubs' Lair final pitch
Saturday, February 18 9pm - The Lad Classic
Friday, February 17 8pm - The Citiots Improv ($12 adults, $10 students/seniors)
Saturday, February 25 8pm - Crime City ($10)
Friday, March 10 9pm - Lonesome Ace Stringband ($15 at door)
Junction Nightclub
253 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 743-0550
Friday, February 3
10pm - Y2K Flashback w/ DJ Bill Porter (no cover)
Saturday, February 4
10pm - Pure Saturdays
Kawartha Coffee Co.
49 Bolton St., Bobcaygeon
(705) 738-1500
Coming Soon
Friday, February 10 7-10pm - Kelly and Myke ($10 or PWYC)
Friday, February 24 6-8pm - Nichole Coward ($8 or PWYC)
Friday, March 24 8-9pm - Nichole Coward ($10 or PWYC)
The Lounge by Lignum
442 George St. N., Peterborough
(705) 775-9463
Friday, February 3
7-9pm - Whitney Paget
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
Tuesdays
9pm - Topper Tuesdays w/ DJ Jake Topper
Wednesdays
9pm - Cody Watkins
The Mill Restaurant and Pub
990 Ontario St., Cobourg
(905) 377-8177
Thursday, February 2
7pm - Live music (TBA)
Coming Soon
Thursday, February 9 8pm - The Revolvers
Murphy's Lockside Pub & Patio
3 May St., Fenelon Falls
(705) 887-1100
Coming Soon
Thursday, February 23 8pm - Comedy Night ft three Yuk Yuk's comedians ($25)
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
Coming Soon
Saturday, March 4 8pm - Benefit for Kelly Prentice w/ live entertainment, country auction ($10, all proceeds to purchase of prosthetic leg)
Pig's Ear Tavern
144 Brock St., Peterborough
(705) 745-7255
Thursdays
9pm - Open mic
Fridays
Pingo
Saturday, February 4
10pm - Steelburner w/ Rob Hailman (19+, $3)
Mondays
Pool Night
Tuesdays
Music night w/ DJ Johnny Punter
Wednesdays
Humpday Karaoinke
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
Friday February 3
10pm - Burlesque Show ft Wolfox w/ music by Kalen Davidson, Brandon Humphrey, Matt Greco ($10)
Saturday, February 4
8pm - Madchild w/ Dow Jones & Joseph Rose ($30, $60 VIP Meet & Greet)
Tuesday, February 7
9pm - Begonia w/ Modest Apollo ($5 at door)
VIDEO: "Jupiter" - Begonia
Coming Soon
Saturday, February 11 1:30pm (family - $5) & 9:30pm (adults only - $7) - Dub Trinity Tribute to Bob Marley
Sunday, February 12 3-6pm - Max Mouse and The Gorillas benefit for Lakefield Animal Welfare Society (all ages; $10 in advance at Moondance, Hank To Hendrix, Bridgenorth Deli, LAWS; or $12 at door)
Friday, May 12 5:30pm - Peterborough Live Music Festival Acoustic Jam w/ Nathan Bottomley, The Templars (all ages, $5 or $15 for weekend pass, in advance at www.ticketscene.ca/events/17190/)
Riverside Grill & Gazebo - Holiday Inn
150 George St, Peterborough
(705) 743-1144
Coming Soon
Friday, March 10 8pm - Jack De Keyzer Solo Performance ($15)
Sapphire Room
137 Hunter St., Peterborough
(705) 749-0409
Coming Soon
Wednesday, February 22 8pm - 16mm Film Night w/ Josh Fewings (rescheduled from January 11)
Friday, February 24 10pm - DJ Jas Nasty
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
The Spill
414 George St., Peterborough
(705) 748-6167
Thursday, February 2
8pm - Bruce Springsteen Acoustic Tribute w/ Lee Dodington & Stephen Clancy
Friday, February 3
8pm - Beyond The Wall, The Costanzas, FoOlish, CallField ($2 or PWYC)
Tuesday, February 7
5-7pm - Refugees in Belgrade Amnesty Letter Writing & info
Wednesday, February 8
8pm - Black History Month Artist Showcase & Open Mic ft Elizabeth Jenkins, Ropa Mungwari, Niambi Leigh, Samantha Banto ($10 or PWYC)
Coming Soon
Friday, February 10 10pm - Century Palm, Manager, Meowlinda, Deathsticks ($5 or PWYC)
Peterborough native Jay Cullen is on the shortlist to become one of Canada’s next astronauts. He’s among 72 candidates left in the Canadian Space Agency’s rigorous recruitment process.
Cullen, who currently lives in British Columbia where he’s a professor of chemical oceanography at the University of Victoria, says his background in science, education and exploration has prepared him well for the job of astronaut.
“I’ve always dreamed about going into space,” Cullen says. “My motivation is the thrill of exploration and discovery, my belief in the scientific method as a way of knowing about our universe, and the need to improve public science literacy.”
During childhood camping trips near Peterborough, Cullen often gazed up at orbiting satellites as they tracked across the night sky and wondered who built them, how they got up there, and what new science they were designed to gather.
At the University of Victoria, Cullen studies the chemistry of metals in seawater that can be nutrients or toxins for microscopic plants in the ocean. The work is important for understanding climate change, the health of Canada’s fisheries, and the effects of pollution on the ocean.
“In many ways the ocean is just as unknown and inhospitable to human beings as space,” Cullen says. “My work is focused on understanding our planet so that we can be better stewards of our resources and help improve environmental and human health, which are inseparable. The goals of space exploration are very similar.”
VIDEO: Jay Cullen explains his work at the University of Victoria
The Canadian Space Agency announced last summer that it was looking for two astronauts and over 4,000 people applied. Cullen is one of the 72 people left on the shortlist.
According to the Canadian Space Agency, Canada is entitled to two long-duration astronaut flights to the International Space Station between now and 2024. The first flight is set for November 2018 and the second flight is yet to be scheduled.
In the coming weeks, Cullen will take part in a series of physical, mental and social assessments in an effort to progress to the next round in the recruitment process. The two winning candidates will be selected this summer.
Until now, Cullen says, the focus has been on background and physical fitness for the job.
“It’s been fun but challenging. This next phase will focus on what I can do and how I compare to the other applicants. I’m looking forward to it.”
When asked if he can sing and play guitar (in reference to famed Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield), Cullen says “I do play guitar and bass guitar to relax, although my singing could use some work. Maybe the International Space Station has better acoustics than my bathroom. I hope so.”
For more information about all 72 astronaut candidates, visit asc-csa.gc.ca.
Scott Murison, co-owner at Wild Rock in Peterborough, cycling to work in the winter. Winter Bike to Work day is coming up on February 10th, an opportunity for the rest of us to get active and give winter biking a try. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough Moves)
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by Karen Halley, GreenUP Communications & Marketing Specialist.
By February, these snowy, cold, winter mornings have many of us thinking that it would be great to leave the car at home. Wouldn’t it be so nice to forego all of the de-icing, shoveling, windshield cleaning, and scraping? If only you didn’t have to bundle up the kids and stuff snow pants and puffy coats into back seats and seatbelts. If you are having any of these daydreams, then now is your chance to act.
On Wednesday (February 1) people across Canada were encouraged to grab warm winter mitts and toques and join Winter Walk Day. This national initiative embraces winter and ties in nicely with the local Car Free Wednesdays program, which promotes using active and sustainable transportation for trips to and from school.
Many children who live within the school’s walking zone or on a school bus route are still getting driven to school. In Peterborough, a typical morning drop off at elementary schools sees nearly 35% of students getting a drive.
Car Free Wednesdays aims to get kids out walking, biking, or riding the bus once a week, on Wednesdays. Shifting to active and sustainable transportation on any day has numerous benefits for the health of our community and the environment.
“Being active in the morning can have many positive impacts on the health of our bodies and minds, too,” says Lindsay Stroud, GreenUP’s Manager of Transportation and Urban Design, “For instance, adding in a walk to school is one way to easily increase daily physical activity levels — and we know kids need it.”
Stroud is referring to the fact that only 14% of children aged 5-11 meet Canadian activity targets of 60 minutes per day. Students can gain, on average, 10-40 minutes of activity each day by walking, biking, or riding their scooter to school. Studies also show that a walk to school can help prepare students for their day of learning, as morning activity increases focus and improves behaviour throughout the day.
Of course, being active in the morning is not just for kids. Adults can get their daily dose of activity with their commute to and from work to experience similar benefits. Next week, on Friday, February 10th, it’s your turn to leave the car at home and choose a healthier, more sustainable mode of transportation on International Winter Bike to Work Day.
Beck Akiyama wears a warm coat, waterproof pants, winter gloves, and a balaclava to stay warm and dry while biking along the Rotary Trail in East City, Peterborough (photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Forego the windshield scraping and the warming of the car — it’s time to give winter cycling a try.
If all you have is a helmet and a bicycle, you’re well on your way. If you are used to dressing up warmly to shovel your driveway or to walk the dog, you likely already have all the clothing you need to get out on your bike, too. A couple of winter layers, some light snow pants, and a good pair of gloves will keep you warm and dry atop your bike.
You might think that winter cycling is only for the daring, adventuresome, or flat out foolish, but with the proper preparation, winter cycling is an outright fun and efficient way to get around.
“Riding my bike is still the best transportation option in the winter,” explains GreenUP’s Coordinator of Transportation and Urban Design Programs, Jaime Akiyama.
“I can drop my kids off at school and roll off to work without worrying about getting caught up in the traffic congestion around the school.”
And by riding bikes with her kids, Akiyama is helping to reduce the amount of air and noise pollution around the school. This makes schoolyard safer for everyone.
Peterborough has many routes that include paved trails and bike lanes for easy navigation on two wheels. Akiyama suggests that it is helpful to plan ahead and carefully consider your route by choosing one that includes as much bike-friendly infrastructure as possible. You can access maps and other resources at www.peterboroughmoves.com/maps-resources.
Anyone with a bike can participate in Winter Bike to Work Day. Every pedal we make towards more sustainable transportation in our lives is better for our health and the environment.
Planning to ride on February 10th? Register yourself and your workplace at winterbiketoworkday.org. Let’s get Peterborough on the map so we can see how we measure up with other cities across the globe in this friendly, international competition.
Fleming College Carpentry Techniques students Daniel Widdis, Carter Clark, and Benjamin Wright working on a wall frame destined for the new Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building at Lang Pioneer Village in Keene (photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
The building of walls is getting a pretty bad rap these days, thanks in no small part to the controversial U.S. border barrier being pushed by one Donald J. Trump.
However, that same act brought nothing but smiles Wednesday afternoon (February 1) at Fleming College’s Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre, as key players in the construction of the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building gathered to herald a new partnership connected to the project.
As several Carpentry Techniques and Carpentry Technician students watched on, Craig Mortlock, vice-president of Peterborough-based Mortlock Construction Inc., announced that Fleming students are building the timber frame walls for the building, which will open September 24th at Lang Pioneer Village near Keene.
“Once we figure out how we could do this, it was like ‘Go’. I had been looking for opportunities to give kids a chance to show their skills and learn, so this was a perfect fit,” said Mortlock following the announcement of the partnership.
“At the end of the day, you’re in this trade (construction) because you can walk away from your job and you know the project you just completed isn’t getting filed in a filing cabinet. It’s tangible; it’s right there. You can walk up and you can look at it for the rest of your life; you can walk by it and feel the pride. I’m excited for these students to get that opportunity.”
Equally enthused is Fleming carpentry program co-ordinator Simon Mokedanz, noting 45 second-semester students and 36 fourth-semester students are involved in the project.
“We’ve been approached with lots of community-based projects but this is the first one which has allowed us to build such a large-scale project. This one worked well with the curriculum and the timing is right in terms of the shop time needed, so it fit the mold.”
VIDEO: Raise the Barn Fleming College students issue a challenge to comedian Rick Mercer to come to Keene to help raise the walls of the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building. Share the video on social media with the hash tag #RaiseTheBarnRickMercer.Designed by Lett Architects, the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building will resemble a circa 1910 barn, fitting in perfectly with the structures at the centre Lang Pioneer Village, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The timber frame walls being built by Fleming students are being stored with construction of the building to begin in late March/early April — a “barn raising” as many referred to it Wednesday.
Following the 2006 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo held in Keene, a legacy fund was endowed to the County of Peterborough for the purpose of continuing local education on the impact and importance of the region’s agriculture heritage. There things sat until June 2015 when the County announced plans to build the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building.
Planned features of the centre include the Peter Hamilton Agricultural Collection, the Peterborough County Agricultural Wall of Fame, agricultural equipment displays and operation demonstrations, a conservation lab, a multi-purpose space for various community activities, a commercial kitchen and an outdoor courtyard.
With a projected cost of $2 million, close to half that amount is being provided by the federal government via the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund. The remainder is being raised via corporate and private donations. Donations can be made directly to the Raise The Barn campaign at www.raisethebarnptbo.com.
Now augmenting the fundraising effort, being overseen by County partnership development and fundraising manager Karen Jopling, is a video plea to Rick Mercer of Rick Mercer Report fame.
The video, featuring some of the Fleming students involved in the project, invites the comedian to come to Keene to help raise the walls of the heritage building. It’s hoped that those who do watch it will share it, including the hashtag #RaiseTheBarnRickMercer.
Also on hand Wednesday was County Warden Joe Taylor. He noted the County contributed $300,000 to the construction of the Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre. Now, Fleming students learning the carpentry trade in the centre are giving back — “a perfect example of how partnerships can work.”
The County, he added, hasn’t committed any dollars to the project yet but is on standby, waiting to see the final result of the fundraising effort. How any shortfall is handled, he said, “is a discussion for another day.”
For more information on the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building project, visit www.raisethebarnptbo.com.
"Blue Ice", a large-scale photograph by Arnold Zageris from his latest series "Antarctica" (photo courtesy of Christensen Fine Art)
Here we are, February, the frozen heart of winter. Or perhaps better described as the melting then freezing then melting heart of winter … regardless, it is clearly the perfect time to pop into Christensen Fine Art and experience the icy landscape of Antarctica, as seen through the large-format lens of photographer Arnold Zageris.
Other upcoming events include a day trip to the AGO, the second annual zine-fest at Artspace, and openings at Evans Contemporary and Acme Art and Sailboat Company. There will also be arts-related workshops, calls for submissions at Public Energy, and a show featuring still life painting at The Kawartha Artist’s Gallery.
So bundle up and get out of the house! After all, there is a lot to see and do this February!
Christensen Fine Art presents Antarctica: Exhibition and Book Launch
“Shipwrecked”, a large-scale photograph by Arnold Zageris from his latest series “Antarctica” (photo courtesy of Christensen Fine Art)
Arnold Zageris’ latest series of stunning large-scale photographs and corresponding book Antarctica will be featured this month at Christensen Fine Art, opening on the evening of Friday, February 3rd and continuing until Saturday, February 25th.
The book Antarctica contains not only striking pictures of a breathtaking place, but fascinating tales of the trips Arnold has taken over the years to obtain these images. The text provides insight into the pictures and process, and also provides us with a further experience of the place itself. It is the kind of book that you pick up and do not want to put down! His former publication On the Labrador, which is also available at Christensen Fine Art, is no different in this respect.
An opening reception will be held at Christensen Fine Art on Friday, February 3rd from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. with Arnold Zageris in attendance.
Christensen Fine Art is located at 432 George Street North in downtown Peterborough. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit www.christensenfineart.com.
Evans Contemporary presents printmaker Janne Laine
“Echo” (Polymergravure and Aquatint, 45x60cm, 2014) by Janne Laine (photo courtesy of Evans Contemporary)
From Friday, February 17th until Saturday, March 25th, Evans Contemporary will feature the work of Finnish artist and master printmaker Janne Laine.
Janne gathers source images from the landscapes of Finland and Iceland and using these, creates stark dreamy images imbued with a sense of mystery. Alluring symmetrical compositions and beautiful subtleties of colour typify his printmaking style.
An opening reception will be held at Evans Contemporary on the evening of Friday, February 17th from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to see these lovely works in person.
Join Artspace and Trent University on a day trip to the Art Gallery of Ontario
Jeff Thomas, Bear Portrait No. 1, Culture Revolution, 1984, on display as part of “Toronto: Tributes + Tributaries, 1971-1989” currently on view at the Art Gallery of Ontario (photo courtesy of Artspace)
On Friday, February 10th, a chartered bus is scheduled to leave from Artspace (378 Aylmer St., Peterborough) at 9:30 a.m. and arrive in Toronto at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) at approximately 11:30 a.m. The bus will then depart from the AGO at 5 p.m. and arrive back in Peterborough at Artspace by approximately 7 p.m. The cost is $25 which includes the bus and general admission to the AGO.
This trip, organised by Artspace and Trent University’s School for the Study of Canada, will be bringing people to see Toronto: Tributes + Tributaries, 1971-1989. A show that highlights an innovative period in the history of the Toronto arts scene, it’s curated by Wanda Nanibush, the Assistant Curator of Canadian and Indigenous Art. For more information the exhibit, visit www.ago.net.
Space is limited, so if you would like to reserve a space please do so immediately. To reserve a space, please contact Jon Lockyer, Director of Artspace at jon@artspace-arc.org or 705-748-3883.
Payments must be made in person at Artspace (378 Aylmer St., Peterborough). Regular hours of operation are from Tuesday to Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
Artspace hosts Book + Zine Fest
On February 25th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artspace will be hosting the 2nd Annual Artspace Book + Zine Fest. This means graphic novels, comics, zines, handmade books, and all manner of paper arts including the work of small presses, and various other printmaking mediums.
This is exciting news!
Since the world of printed materials such as handmade books, comics, and graphic novels is more of an underground scene, these books and the associated artwork can be hard to come by.
On Saturday February 25th, artists will come to Peterborough from across the province to display and sell their work at the second annual Artspace Book + Zine Fest.
This event is free to attend and should have some interesting vendors!
Artspace is located at 378 Aylmer Street in downtown Peterborough.
Regular hours of operation are Tuesday to Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Parking is available in the municipal lot on Hunter Street between Aylmer and George.
For more information, call 705-748-3883 or visit artspace-arc.org.
Acme Art and Sailboat Company presents SHIELDS
One of Joe Stable’s new shield pieces, which will be on display as part of his new series SHIELDS (photo courtesy Joe Stable)
A new series of work by Joe Stable will be on display on Friday, February 17th, at the Acme Art and Sailboat Company.
The opening reception will be from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.
This will be an extra special celebration as it will also be a birthday party for Joe, and yes, there will be cake!
Acme Art and Sailboat Company is located at 129-1/2 Hunter Street West, 3rd floor, in downtown Peterborough.
Kawartha Artists Gallery and Studio presents Petals and Pitchers
“Vases and Vessels” by Carol Atkinson is one of the still-life oil paintings on display as part of “Petals and Pitchers” (photo courtesy of The Kawartha Artists’ Gallery and Studio)
The Kawartha Artists Gallery and Studio presents Petals and Pitchers, a show and sale of still-life paintings.
The exhibition runs from Wednesday, February 15th until Sunday, March 12th, with an opening reception on Sunday, February 19th from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Kawartha Artists Gallery and Studio is a not-for-profit artist’s co-operative, located at 420 O’Connell Road in Peterborough.
Hours of operation are Wednesday to Sunday from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Admission is free.
For more information, visit www.kawarthaartists.org, call 705-741-2817, of find them on Facebook.
Public Energy Call for Submissions
Victoria Wood, of the performing group the Pyroflys, during a fiery performance (photo courtesy of Public Energy)
Public Energy is a dynamic company that brings innovative contemporary dance theatre and performance to Peterborough, as well as provides support and opportunities to local performers, writers and choreographers.
Public Energy is currently seeking submissions for two separate programs: Alternating Currents and Dusk Dances.
Alternating Currents is a theatre and performance workshop process, led by dramaturge Kate Story, an award-winning writer and theatre artist. Alternating Currents is intended to benefit both individual and collaborative projects. The application deadline for Alternating Currents is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 8th.
Dusk Dances is an outdoor dance festival featuring top quality contemporary dance and choreography. The festival takes place in public parks in cities across Ontario. One of these performances in the Peterborough location is slated for a local artist. The application deadline for submissions to Dusk Dances is Wednesday, February 15th.
For more information about eligibility and the application process for both Alternating Currents and Dusk Dances, visit publicenergy.ca. Please send all proposals by email to bill@publicenergy.ca or by mail to Public Energy, PO Box 2319, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 7Y8.
artsVest returns to the Kawartha Lakes
A sponsorship workshop for artsVest, which helps build partnerships between arts organizations and businesses (photo: Business for the Arts)
The national flagship program of Business for the Arts (Canada’s national charitable organization of business members who support the arts), artsVest™ returns to the Kawartha Lakes after a successful pilot year.
This program helps provide funding and opportunities for small- to mid-sized arts organizations. Both sponsorship programs and workshop programs are intended to build sustainable partnerships between the arts and businesses.
VIDEO: artsVest Partner with the Arts
In 2013, artsVest tried a pilot year in the Kawartha Lakes and saw a successful cycle, where seven arts organisations created 26 partnerships with businesses, matching funds of over $38,000 and generating another $68,000 in private sector sponsorships. The investment impact on the Kawartha Lakes cultural economy is valued at over $107,000!
It’s exciting news to have this program come to our area! On Monday, February 27th, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., there will be a “Sponsorship 101” information session at workshop at Kawartha Lakes City Hall (26 Francis St., Lindsay), followed by a launch celebration for the artsVest Kawartha Lakes program.
Both events are free. For more information about the events on Monday, February 27th or to reserve your spot, please visit artsvestkawarthalakes.eventbrite.ca.
Carla Hunt is leaving the Lakefield ServiceOntario office on February 10th after 35 years. A presentation will be made at the Kawartha Chamber AGM on February 15th to to recognize her years of service.
Kris Keller, President of the Board of Directors, Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Things have been busy at The Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism office.
Our year end has wrapped up and the annual audit is well underway. In addition, staff and board members have been involved in a strategic direction review to prioritize key areas of focus for the next 3 yrs. Read more.
Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting of the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism takes place on February 15 at The Village Inn in Lakefield
The 2017-18 Board of Directors will be elected at the AGM. Nominations will also be invited from the floor. The Kawartah Chamber is expecting a nomination for Mike Walker, Agilec. Additionally, two more nominations could come from the floor without requiring an election.
Business After Hours held at Lakeshore Designs
Lakeshore Designs in Lakefield
Lakeshore Designs Owner, Angela Jones and staff welcomed Chamber Members to their new location on January 25th. Guests toured the newly renovated Lakefield Road location, gathered design inspiration, and networked with fellow Chamber Members.
Angela spoke about the work they put in to the building during the renovation process. Many guests were visiting the new location for the first time, and admired the sleek and cozy design of the showroom and retail location. Returning visitors commented on how the showroom has something different every time they stop in.
Angela has been involved with the Princess Margaret Lottery, decorating the “Early Bird Cottages.” She looks forward to more community involvement in the Kawarthas.
Visit Lakeshore Designs at 2968 Lakefield Road.
Couldn’t make it to Lakeshore Designs? Check out the video!
Carla Hunt leaving ServiceOntario after 35 years
Carla Hunt
After 35 years of service, Carla Hunt will complete her final driver vehicle, and health card transactions at the Lakefield ServiceOntario office on Friday, February 10th.
Carla’s professionalism, friendly smile, and extensive knowledge of ServiceOntario operations will be greatly missed.
She began her career with the Chamber on January 27th, 1982, and was the Assistant Supervisor at the ServiceOntario location from 2004-2011.
Carla will be missed by many dealers, and community residents, who visit the ServiceOntario office regularly. She will also be missed by her co-workers, especially Supervisor Deb Lowcock, who she has worked with for 26 years.
The Chamber wishes Carla the best of luck in her future endeavours! A presentation will be made at the AGM to recognize her years of service. If you aren’t attending the AGM but would like to sign a card for Carla, please stop in at the ServiceOntario office before February 15th.
Growing local business in Selwyn Township – volunteers needed
Working with Selwyn Township’s Economic Development and Business Committee the Township is launching a Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) survey to help local businesses. The Economic Development and Business Committee selected Retail and Service Business as the first sector to be surveyed and the other sectors in the future.
Retail and service businesses will be receiving letters shortly explaining the project in more detail and will be asked to participate to have their voices heard. Learn more.
The Township of Selwyn is looking for volunteers to help administer the surveys for the project. If you are interested in learning more, or volunteering, please contact Kari Partridge, Economic Development Coordinator, at kpartridge@nexicom.net.
Federal government to tax employer contributions
As you may have read in the Chamber’s January 24th NewsFlash, the Federal Government is considering taxing employer contributions paid into group benefit plans.
Although they have not yet confirmed their intention to proceed with this measure, and details have yet to be disclosed, the insurance industry and advocacy groups have reason to believe it’s more than a possibility and will be announced with the Liberal’s Spring 2017 Federal Budget.
The BEL Rotary 37th Annual Polar Plunge takes place on Sunday, February 5th at 12 p.m. Plungers are invited to show their Canadian pride and celebrate Canada 150.
The 11th Annual PolarFest is taking place at various location throughout Selwyn Township on February 3rd, 4th and 5th. Don’t miss out on these great PolarFest events! From the Opening Ceremony Fireworks, to the ice sculpture competitions, to the Annual BEL Rotary Polar Plunge. You don’t want to miss out!
The Rotary Club of Bridgenorth, Ennismore & Lakefield is celebrating their 40th year in 2017! The Chamber and local business community extends their gratitude for 40 years of dedicated service!
BEL Rotary supports many causes each year, locally and abroad.
Annual fundraisers and initiatives include:
Polar Plunge
Super Spring Clean Up
Season Opener Golf Tournament
Bike for Hospice
Project Helping Hands
Adopt a Family
Support of various community organizations
BEL Rotary has also supported the maintenance and upkeep of the BEL Rotary Bridgenorth Trail, and BEL Rotary Park.
While BEL Rotary is based locally, their initiatives don’t stop there. International projects include the Rotary Youth Exchange, polio eradication, and School Builds in Cambodia, most recently in February 2016.
The Rotary Club of Bridgenorth, Ennismore, Lakefield meets Monday evenings at Chemong Lodge. For more information, visit belrotary.com.
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist
Matt Logan, owner of Logan Tree Experts, is now a ISA Board Certified Master Arborist
Matt Logan, owner of Logan Tree Experts, has recently received his Board Certified Master Arborist certification, the highest arborist designation under the International Society of Arboriculture.
Logan Tree Experts has been a member of the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism since 2009, shortly after Matt, and wife Tracy, started the business in his hometown of Lakefield. The company services the entire Kawartha region with two tree care crews and a Plant Health Care program.
For more information about the businesses and events listed above, please visit the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism website at kawarthachamber.ca.
All photos supplied by Kawartha Chamber of Commerce except where noted.
The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough won first place in the Trail Towns Workshop 2017 Community Incentive Award for its Peterborough Canoe Heritage and Tradition Experience project, which will include museum exhibits, a walking tour of historic canoe-manufacturing locations in Peterborough, and a Voyageur Canoe tour over the Peterborough Lift Lock. (Photo: The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Four organizations in the Kawarthas have won awards for their winning entries to the Trail Towns Workshop 2017 Community Incentive Award from the Kawarthas Northumberland tourism organization.
The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, Impact 32 in Bobcaygeon, Friends of Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls, and Incredible Edibles Festival in Campbellford have each won a monetory award.
Kawarthas Northumberland invited not-for-profit organizations to submit projects following an interactive workshop, held last November, that showcased the benefits of strengthening the linkages of the Trent-Severn Waterway communities to one another. The projects were to enhance tourism experiences for trails and towns along the Trent-Severn Waterway.
According to Kawarthas Northumberland, “the winning entries demonstrate a high level of community-driven initiatives which demonstrate support and participation from local community leadership, trail development organizations, Parks Canada, and economic/tourism organizations and municipalities.”
Here are the winning projects:
First Place ($5,000 award): The Canadian Canoe Museum for its Peterborough Canoe Heritage and Tradition Experience
The Canadian Canoe Museum’s project includes three interactive and engaging components to inform and celebrate the canoe building history and tradition in Peterborough and the surrounding area.
The project includes exhibits at the Museum, a walking tour of historic canoe-manufacturing locations in downtown Peterborough and East City (with interpretive panels with QR codes), and a 90-minute Voyageur Canoe tour over the Peterborough Lift Lock.
Second Place ($2,500 award): Impact 32 in Bobcaygeon for their Bike Share Station
Impact 32’s project is for the implementation of a Bike Share Station at Lock 32 in Bobcaygeon, for use during the tourist season.
A bike sharing station is a service where bicycles are made available for shared use to individuals on a very short term basis. This project will allow boaters and guests visiting Bobcaygeon to explore and visit all areas of the town.
Third Place – tie ($1,250 award): Friends of Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls for their Stone Waterfall & Sculpture Garden
The Friends of Lock 34 project involves the redevelopment of the Lock Station property known as the “Island”, specifically for the installation of a stone waterfall and installation of a sculpture on one of the concrete piers located in the canal.
The group plans to add a new sculpture each year, on each of the nine piers, with an annual unveiling ceremony.
Third Place – tie ($1,250 award): Incredible Edibles Festival in Campbellford for their Farm Life Tour Experience
Incredible Edibles Festival tied for the third place award with their project, intended to augment the Farm Life Tour Experience.
Visitors will tour up to four farms for hands-on demonstrations of how farms are run, to understand what they produce, and to ask questions directly to the farmers. Visitors will also enjoy a locally sourced lunch prepared by a guest chef on the banks of the Trent River.
Administered through Regional Tourism Organization 8, Kawarthas Northumberland supports a competitive and sustainable tourism industry, attracts visitors, generates economic activity, and creates jobs within the region that encompasses City of Kawartha Lakes, City and County of Peterborough, and County of Northumberland.
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