Thomas A. Stewart Dance Program Honours MacHart Family Through ‘Sweet Charity’ Fundraising Event

The Thomas A. Stewart (TAS) auditorium was packed with a sold-out crowd Tuesday night as the school’s dance program hosted the ‘Sweet Charity’ fundraising event in support of the MacHart family.

The Thomas A. Stewart Dance Program. Photo by Michael Brown Photography.

After a 4-year hiatus, the TAS Dance Program was able to host their annual fundraising event in-person on Feb. 21.

“This year's event was extra special to us for a few reasons,” says TAS dance teacher Susie Clarke. “Due to the pandemic, we haven’t been able to host live performances, so filling a space with this many people and having them experience this as a collective, once again, has been so meaningful for all performers and audience members.”

The next reason, Clarke says, is getting to give back to the community.

“Traditionally, Sweet Charity funnels all proceeds to multiple local charities, as chosen by each participating dance organization. This year we collectively decided to channel all proceeds from the event to support the MacHart family,” she said.

Clarke says all participating organizations were in support of this, which TAS is “wholeheartedly grateful for.”

Riddick, Jon and Stefphanie MacHart were victims of a fatal accident on Hwy. 7 on the 22nd of November last year. Rowghan MacHart, the only survivor, was airlifted to SickKids hospital where she remains today.

The Machart family. gofundme photo.

Riddick MacHart had been a member of the dance program for the past five years, and sister Rowghan a grade nine Integrated arts student at the school. Stefphanie was an educational assistant at TAS.

“If anyone had the opportunity to see Riddick in his element, you would already know that he exuded passion, commitment and joy every time he stepped on to the stage,” said Clarke. “As you can imagine, this loss has been profound for not only the TAS dance community, but for our entire school. Furthermore, it is clear that the MacHart family had, and continues to have, a profound impact on our entire dance and arts community in Peterborough.”

In an update from MacHart family GoFundMe creator Tanya Hart on Feb. 16, she says that Rowghan is “making progress day by day” despite challenges due to her extensive internal injuries.

“Rowghan has proven time and time again that she will not let it stop her from progressing and moving forward,” the update reads.“We would like to thank TAS and all of the performers for always being such a huge support to the family.”

The Baily Baptie School of Dance. Photo by Michael Brown Photography.

Revolutions Dance Studio. Photo by Michael Brown Photography.

The Premiere Studio of Dance. Photo by Michael Brown Photography.

The event included 22 dance pieces, submitted and performed by twelve local dance organizations; Thomas A. Stewart Dance Program, Trent University Dance Team, Velocity School Of Dance, Lakefield College School Dance Company, 7 Attitudes School of Arts, Next Generation Dance Company, Revolutions Dance Studio, Imagine Studios, Premiere Studio of Dance, Jubilation Studios, Dance Nouveau and Baily Baptie School of Dance.

In total, there were 209 dancers who performed in front of the sold-out crowd. 

Clarke says that Rowghan and Riddick’s grandfather Jim was in attendance, as well as Riddick’s girlfriend, Brooke Conroy. Clarke says Conroy was an integral part of the production of the event, who worked alongside her to create something special and honour the MacHart family. 

“The night was magical. Although difficult and definitely pulled on our heart strings, it also showcased the joy that dance brings to us all,” recalls Clarke. “On the evening of Sweet Charity, we danced not only for our team, our audience, and ourselves, but to support and make a significant difference. The show was an example of the power of dance and the arts through collaboration, community, and resilience. We came together to support a family from our community; one that has had an impact on us all in some way.”

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Peterborough Lakers Auctioning Mann Cup Jerseys For Kawartha Food Share and Parkinson's Society

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers are auctioning off their 2022 Mann Cup championship jerseys with proceeds being donated to Kawartha Food Share and the Parkinson’s Society announced on Wednesday night.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers.

The auction is being hosted online beginning on Feb. 4 at 10 a.m. and closing on Feb. 8 at 7 p.m.

It currently has 18 lots up for bid including jerseys from Robert Hope, Shawn Evans, Joe Resetarits, Thomas Hoggarth and more.

The Lakers beat the Langley Thunder in seven games to win their fourth-straight Mann Cup.

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United Way Peterborough Accepting Applications For Its Community Services Recovery Fund

As part of a $400 million investment from the Government of Canada, the United Way Peterborough & District is accepting applications for its Community Services Recovery Fund (CSRF) to aid charities and non-profits with the deadline of Feb. 21.

File photo.

CSRF aims to support the adaptation and modernization needs of non-profit and charitable Community Service Organizations facing immediate and long-term impacts of the pandemic as they continue to support communities according to a press release.

“The Government supports a more inclusive model of economic growth that creates opportunities for everyone in Canada as the long-term recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic continues,” said Karina Gould, Minister of Families, children and social development. “The Community Services Recovery Fund will strengthen the ability of charities and non-profits to deliver services and resources where they have the most impact. Because of the National Funders’ strong connections with local organizations, they will ensure funding is distributed efficiently to organizations that provide services to communities in need across Canada.”

Funding supports one-time projects primarily focused on program and service innovation and redesign using information gained during the COVID-19 pandemic. Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough will administer the Investing in Systems and Processes stream and Canadian Red Cross Ontario will administer the Investing in People stream.

“Agencies have been going above and beyond throughout the pandemic to continually support vulnerable community members who face complex social issues,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “The Program and Service Innovation and Redesign stream is a valuable opportunity for local Community Service Organizations to formally adapt their programs and services to fit within the pandemic recovery context. We are proud to have been invited by the Government of Canada to manage this vital community investment.”

To apply, applicants can fill out the application online in English or in French.

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The 63rd Liftlock U11 Hockey Tournament Returns After Two-Year Hiatus; Volunteers Honoured Ahead of Event

After a two-year hiatus, one of Peterborough’s biggest hockey traditions makes its return as the 63rd Annual Liftlock U11 Hockey Tournament returns to the ice from Thursday to Sunday.

(form left to right) Bill Auckland, Teena & Jack Flood and Mike Dennis were recipients of Frank Lustic, Steve Casey and Don McCrory’s Referee’s Award respectively at the 63rd Liftlock U11 Hockey Tournament. The tournament was formerly called the Peterborough Liftlock Atom Hockey Tournament. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Opening ceremonies of the house league begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Healthy Planet Arena while Rep Division opening ceremonies are at the Peterborough Memorial Centre at 9 a.m. Callum Perks better known as ‘Coach Cal’ is doing the ceremonial puck drop before the game.

This year features 87 teams in 11 divisions playing throughout 10 arenas in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. It is also the return of AAA divisions. While the number of teams dropped from 114 in 2019, chairman Dan McNamee is just happy to have the tournament back for the children.

“The kids are happy to be back, the parents are excited to see the tradition back,” he said. “If it weren’t for the volunteers and directors who were working behind the scenes for this tournament, they’re the ones who get all the accolades for putting on this tournament.”

This year is without the skills competition due to lower numbers but it is not being shelved permanently for future tournaments according to McNamee.

“We’ll give it a little bit of a break and we’ll look at bringing it back in the future,” he explained. “It’s not like it’s gone forever, it’s a great show and those kids are the all-stars for the night and I hope we’ll get it back soon.”

Several awards were distributed ahead of the opening ceremonies recognizing some volunteers for their contributions to the tournament over the years:

• Don McCrory Referee’s Award for exemplifying McCrory’s dedication to officiating - Mike Dennis

• Steve Casey Award for a volunteer going the extra mile to contributing to the tournament’s success – Teena and Jack Flood

• Frank Lustic Award for exemplifying all Lustic’s qualities who volunteered for over 25 years in minor sports – Bill Auckland

A cheque presentation of $2,500 was also donated to Autism Central East Ontario as the chosen beneficiary as the tournament supports a local charity annually.

The eagerness of all the volunteers and committee members showed as they were happy to see the event return after a two-year hiatus, according to McNamee.

“Let’s just get on the ice,” he exclaimed. “I just want to see the kids get skating and see the smiles on their face and hear the parents cheering them on. It feels like two decades and not two years, it’s been a long time coming so let’s play hockey.”

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Santa Claus To Appear At Dr. J's To Fundraise For SickKids Hospital On Dec. 18

Santa Claus is coming to Dr. J’s BBQ & Brews for to have his picture taken for a meet and greet in a charity fundraiser for SickKids Toronto on Dec. 18 announced on Thursday.

Last year, Dr. J’s operated their Santa Calus event by appointment only. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Last year, Dr. J’s ran the same event in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association. They chose SickKids as the recipient of all fundraising proceeds as it holds sentimental value to owner Addison Brown and his family.

“This year, we have chosen a charity very close to our hearts, and one our family will soon get to know all too well,” he explained. “You may have heard that the Brown family will be expanding with two new little members, one of whom will be needing a little extra attention from the wonderful team at SickKids Toronto.”

Photo courtesy of Addison Brown.

“We feel so fortunate to have such wonderful care available to us and we are looking forward to giving back this Christmas,” said Addison.

Santa is appearing from noon until 6 p.m. for photo opportunities with a five-dollar donation. Gift wrapping is also available from Dec. 16-18 with any monetary donation.

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Lakefield Collaboration Creates Gift Boxes To Support Local Businesses and Charity

Online marketplace FriendLilySHOP has teamed up with small businesses to support Lakefield Youth Unlimited (LYU) and local retailers by selling gift boxes of locally-sourced items announced on Wednesday.

Chris Jones, Lakefield Youth Unlimited (left) with Jim Riches, FriendLilySHOP (right) with the gift boxes to support Lakefield Youth Unlimited with items from several local businesses. Photo courtesy of LYU.

The gift boxes contain items from The English Potter, Angle Iron Kitchen, The Nutty Bean Cafe, Reclaimed Garden Co. and Kyoto Coffee. The boxes are available beginning on Saturday at the aforementioned retailers or online.

A portion of the proceeds is donated to LYU to aid and support Youth Unlimited programs that build community within the village and provide key opportunities for the personal and spiritual development of our youth according to a press release.

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An Evening of Stand-Up Comedy in Support of the YES Shelter for Youth and Families

Support the YES Shelter for Youth and Families at the live two-show comedy event at Gerti’s Restaurant on Dec. 1.

Photo courtesy of Phillip Jolicoeur.

Stand-up comedians Brad Bryans and Ernie Vicente will be opening for headlining comedian Casey Corbin (Just for Laughs, Comedy Now, MTV, SiriusXM) during the two live shows.

Each show is over an hour of stand-up comedy accompanied by a dinner, chosen from a limited menu. 100% of ticket and dinner profits will go to supporting YES.

YES offers many services for those ages 16 to 24 and families, including a 24-hour staffed shelter equipped with 30 beds.

“YES is profoundly under-resourced as the primary agency serving youth and families experiencing homelessness in Peterborough. We depend on our community to help keep us here to offer safety and support out of crisis. Events like Phil's Comedy Show at Gerti's not only helps our downtown revitalize, but also helps to provide much-needed recovery to those of us who are struggling,” said Brooke Erickson, development lead at the YES Shelter for Youth and Families.

Early show dinner is to start at 5 p.m. with the show beginning at 6:15 p.m., and the late show will serve dinner at 8 p.m. and start at 9:15 p.m at Gerti’s (225 Hunter St W, Peterborough) on Dec. 1.

Show tickets are $60 each, available at https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/phillip-jolicoeur-30925617501.

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Bras Around the Building Campaign Raises $12,603 in Support of Breast Cancer Awareness

The 12th annual ‘Bras Around the Building’ campaign wraps up, raising over $12,600 for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Photo courtesy of MOVE 99.7.

With $2 per bra being donated from Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre and other monetary donations from local businesses and individuals, the campaign raised $12,603, supporting the Canadian Cancer Society, breast cancer research and awareness and the services patients use every day.

For the last four weeks, residents of Peterborough and The Kawarthas have been donating their gently used bras for this campaign. A total of 3,472 bras were collected.

The bras will hang on the Pure Country 105/Move 99.7 building until Monday as a symbol of support for those battling breast cancer, to honour survivors and to remember those who have lost their battle. The public is encouraged to stop by and check out the display at 59 George St. N.

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Bras Around the Building Campaign in Support of the Canadian Cancer Society Runs Throughout October

The 12th annual Bras Around the Building Campaign is running from Oct. 3 to 28, supporting the Canadian Cancer Society, breast cancer research and awareness and the services cancer patients use every day.

Photo courtesy of Bras Around the Building.

Residents of Peterborough and the Kawarthas are encouraged to donate their gently used bras throughout the campaign. For every bra collected, Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre will make a $1 donation, with proceeds going to the Canadian Cancer Society to support breast cancer research and cancer services.

Over the years, the campaign has raised over $150,000 through bra collection and donation matching.

Bra donations can be dropped off until Oct. 27 at the following locations: Move 99.7/Pure Country 105 (59 George Street North), Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre (1460 Lansdowne Street), My Left Breast (203 Simcoe Street) and the Canadian Cancer Society of Peterborough and District (730 The Kingsway, Unit 2).

On the morning of Oct. 28, collected bras will be strung together around the exterior of the MOVE 99.7/Pure Country 105 building in Peterborough as symbol of support for women battling breast cancer, and to honour survivors and remember those who have lost their battle to cancer.

Bras will remain on display until Oct. 31. Upon completion of the campaign a cheque will be presented to the Peterborough and District Unit of the Canadian Cancer Society for breast cancer research based on the final number of bras collected.

Donations can be made online at www.Cancer.ca/BarsAround2022.

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Couture Candy PTBO Raises $16,700 For PRHC Foundation Cancer Care

Couture Candy PTBO’s community fundraiser supporting Cancer Care is Sweet raised $16,700 for cancer care at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) announced Thursday.

PRHC Foundation staff Meghan Moloney (left) and Valerie Gagnon (left-middle) accept a cheque for $16,700 from Couture Candy PTBO owner Lisa Couture (right-middle). The cheque represents the proceeds of Couture Candy PTBO’s “Supporting Cancer is Sweet” fundraiser in support of cancer care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Photo courtesy of PRHC.

Inspired by her many customers who come into Couture Candy PTBO looking to send a treat to someone impacted by the disease, owner Lisa Couture wanted to do something to give back to the community.

In June of 2022, she launched the Supporting Cancer Care is Sweet campaign, with a goal of $10,000. When it quickly became clear they would surpass their goal, Couture raised it to $15,000.

She says she’s blown away by the community’s response.

“We hoped we would hit our goal but to get so far past it has been absolutely amazing,” said Couture. “I am so grateful to my amazing team, the businesses who supported and the Peterborough community for believing in us and supporting this amazing ‘give back’ campaign.”

From mid-June until Oct. 3, Couture Candy PTBO donated a portion of the proceeds from over 10 of their most popular products to the campaign.

In September, Couture took Rob Conley, Lansdowne Place’s specialty leasing manager, up on their offer to donate a free month to the cause, opening a second “pop-up” location that helped drive her success.

They also collected donations, displaying names and messages from donors throughout the store and held ice cream fundraisers throughout the summer with Central Smith Creamery.

The community quickly rallied behind the cause, with friend Justin Armitage holding a haircut challenge and raising $2,125 and Whelan’s Flooring’s donation of $1,000.

Lesley Heighway, foundation president and CEO of the PHRC Foundation says they’ll help save lives by supporting state-of-the-art cancer care equipment and technology for PRHC.

“The number of patients from Peterborough and the surrounding region who rely on PRHC for cancer treatment continues to climb every year,” said Heighway. “Your donations are helping our hospital serve more cancer patients, support earlier cancer diagnosis, and provide safer, more effective treatments.”

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