Durham creative minds invited to socialize Metroland – Durham Division, Jan. 20

DURHAM — Durham’s creative residents have a new opportunity to collaborate and share ideas at a monthly event being introduced by Durham Tourism.

Creative Social will be held on the last Thursday of every month in rotating local municipalities.

“The Creative Social is a new way to bring entrepreneurs, artists and other members of Durham Region’s creative community together to connect, inspire each other and develop new business opportunities,” said Kathy Weiss, the Region’s director of economic development and tourism.

The first event is planned for Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. at Tin Mill Restaurant in Uxbridge.

Tickets are $10 and include light snacks and a beverage. The event will include networking opportunities, entertainment from local musician Tim Bastmeyer and presentations by creative entrepreneurs.

The inaugural event will feature Kerri King, Durham’s tourism manager, as well as Shelley MacBeth from Blue Heron Books; Ginny van Veghel, owner of Elemi Organics; Carly Foster and Kirsty Kernohan, co-owners of Sweet World Media, and Angelo Sarafino Tramonti of Sarafino Inc.

For more information or to register, visit www.creativesocial.ca.

Kerri King Manager, Tourism

Planning and Economic Development Department Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East, PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Toll Free: 1-800-413-0017 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228

http://www.durhamtourism.ca

Held on the last Thursday of every month in rotating local municipalities, the Creative Social aims to connect creative people to discuss opportunities for collaboration and new business in Durham Region.

“The Creative Social is a new way to bring entrepreneurs, artists and other members of Durham Region’s creative community together to connect, inspire each other and develop new business opportunities,” says Kathy Weiss, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “This supports the Economic Development and Tourism Division’s goal to strengthen the economy and stimulate job growth in Durham Region.”

The first Creative Social will be held on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. at Tin Mill Restaurant in Uxbridge. Tickets are $10 and include light snacks and a beverage. The event will include networking opportunities, entertainment from local musician Tim Bastmeyer, as well as presentations by local creative entrepreneurs.

“I am excited to collaborate with local creative entrepreneur, Dana Jackson, to bring the Creative Social to Durham Region,” says Kerri King, Tourism Manager. “Since 2009, our community has shown its enthusiasm for creativity through the Art of Transition movement. The Creative Social is the next step for the continued development of Durham’s creative economy.”

At the first event, Kerri King will be joined by the following dynamic presenters representing Durham Region’s creative community: Shelley MacBeth of Blue Heron Books; Ginny van Veghel, owner of Elemi Organics; Carly Foster and Kirsty Kernohan, co-owners of Sweet World Media; and Angelo Sarafino Tramonti of Sarafino Inc.

For more information, and to register for the Durham Creative Social, visit www.creativesocial.ca.

Kerri King Manager, Tourism

Planning and Economic Development Department Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East, PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Toll Free: 1-800-413-0017 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228

http://www.durhamtourism.ca

The official Town of Ajax new website www.ajax.ca launch is Thursday, Jan. 12th at 12 noon, St. Francis Centre or catch it live: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/town-of-ajax-live

Thanks from the Ajax Business Development & Tourism team! Lisa Hausz Nadia Sukovski Judy Wight Andrew Poray visit@ajax.ca

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

The St. Francis Centre in Ajax presents… iLOVE – a romantic dot comedy by The Second City Toronto Sunday, February 12, 2012 – 2:00 p.m. 78 Church St. S., Ajax Tickets: $30 (+HST) – available at the Ajax & McLean Community Centres and the St. Francis Centre Box Office.

Click to view the show’s trailer ( http://www.townofajax.com/Page6863.aspx?DateTime=634646520000000000&PageMode=View ) For more information, visit www.stfranciscentre.ca or call 905-619-2529 ext. 2787

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

PICKERING — Area artists can become part of Pickering’s cultural identity by signing up for the new Cultural Directory.

The new online listing will feature artists and cultural organizations throughout the city in a single culture-based directory.

“The City of Pickering has a rich and vibrant art, cultural and heritage community and a comprehensive inventory of our cultural assets will serve to strengthen, promote and support this dynamic cultural community,” said Pickering Mayor Dave Ryan.

“The municipality encourages our cultural stakeholders to take advantage of this unique opportunity and profile their cultural asset in the directory.”

As part of the City’s cultural strategic plan, the directory is aimed at boosting the City’s tourism efforts and supporting the growth of Pickering’s cultural sector. It was made possible through funding from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports’ Creative Communities Prosperity Fund.

“The Government of Ontario is proud to help the City of Pickering integrate culture into their strategy for growth,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

“Creative and cultural industries are among the fastest growing sectors in the economy today and contribute to the social and economic development of this province.”

Although the directory is scheduled to launch on Monday, Jan. 16, the City will continue to accept registrations from Pickering-based artisans, cultural not-for-profit organizations, creative industries and owners/operators of natural and cultural heritage facilities and spaces.

Registration can be completed online at www.cityofpickering.com. For more information, visit the City’s website or call 905-420-4620.

Kerri King Manager, Tourism

Planning and Economic Development Department Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East, PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Toll Free: 1-800-413-0017 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228

http://www.durhamtourism.ca

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

“Q” is an energetic daily arts, culture and entertainment magazine that takes you on a smart and surprising ride, interviewing personalities and tackling the cultural issues that matter.

Jian Ghomeshi, the host of Q, has said he will bring a live broadcast of the show the city with the best campaign. Oshawa has joined in the race to be that city! The campaign, spearheaded by The Robert McLaughlin Gallery in partnership with Durham College Journalism Students and Durham Tourism, need your help! Jian has indicated that community support, grassroots efforts and collective spirit will help determine the outcome.

The decision will be made this we

How can you help?

Visit the Facebook Fan Page and click “like” www.facebook.com/QinOshawa http://www.facebook.com/QinOshawa

- Once you are a fan, you can upload pictures of yourself with the letter Q, or examples of the letter Q you find in Oshawa.

- Tell stories about arts and culture in Oshawa

- Invite your friends to join, or share the page on your facebook wall

- Upload a video telling Jian why he should come to Oshawa

Using Twitter, post messages of support and include #QinOshawa in your message. Retweet others who have #QinOshawa in their message

Join in and help us bring Q to Oshawa! Any ideas and offers of support are welcome. The decision will be made December 8th, 2011 so time is running short!

Never one to back down from a challenge, RMG CEO Gabrielle Peacock took up the cause, issuing more tweets and imploring staff to get on board. “We’ve got a lot happening here, just 35km from the city. Q shines a light on culture: music, art, theatre and more. This is why we want Oshawa selected — it’s not about what people know about us, it’s an opportunity for Jian and the Q listeners to discover some cultural assets in their own backyards. We’re joining the contest later than other cities, but we’ve got a lot of heart and think we have a shot at winning,” Peacock told staff. Staff jumped on board in just a few days a Facebook page has emerged as well as the promise to guests at the RMG’s monthly cultural event series “First Fridays” that this week’s event (December 2, 7pm) will include a way to get involved and show support.

“First Fridays has become a staple in the local culture diet,” says RMG Manager of Communications and Social Media, Jacquie Severs. “It’s the right place to promote this campaign. This week we feature Jazz performers The Gillian Margot Trio, alongside the photography exhibition “Susan Dobson: By Design” and the AIDS Committee of Durham Region’s “POZitive Portrayals” that features work by HIV Positive artists. We’ll have a photo booth with local photographer Marina Osmond. The event shows how diverse our cultural offerings are here. We wish Jian could come and see it for himself, we aren’t just a car town anymore!”

The RMG needs community support to make the campaign more powerful. Having already received votes of confidence from PFLAG Durham and Durham College’s Downtown Oshawa News, the RMG now needs ‘likes’ on its Facebook page, tweets with the hashtag #QinOshawa and community partnerships. Local record label Get Bent Records has offered to bring bands to perform for Q. The RMG hopes other local arts & culture staples will get on board.

Oshawa’s mayor John Henry issued a statement of support, highlighting the RMG as an important asset in the campaign. “With the public’s support we can bring into the light one of Oshawa’s best kept secrets.”

“This is a grassroots effort, we need all the support we can get! The RMG is prepared to donate 20 memberships to community groups and businesses who offer support and services,” says Gabrielle Peacock.

To stay on top of the campaign please visit and like: www.facebook.com/QinOshawa

WHITBY, ON

Held at the Durham College/University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, the daylong event consisted of a marketplace of Durham Region businesses and organizations, a tourism industry speaker series, and the presentation of the inaugural Durham Art of Transition Creative Awards.

“The Tourism Summit and Durham Art of Transition Creative Awards showed off Durham Region’s creative economy, which is continuing to grow every day,” stated Roger Anderson, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for Durham Region. “Our rich heritage, dynamic attractions, and thriving arts and culture scene make up a quality of life in Durham Region that is second to none.”

The event featured keynote speaker Robin Sharma, a best-selling author and expert on leadership and change management. During his address, Sharma empowered the sold-out audience to build on leadership skills to achieve great things. Attendees also enjoyed the tourism industry speaker series, which covered topics such as cultural tourism, cycle tourism, culinary tourism, customer service and more.

“The tourism industry speaker series explored ways to take Durham’s assets and leverage them to attract more tourists to the Region,” said Kathy Weiss, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for Durham Region. “By promoting and developing our exceptional cycling trails, culinary industry, cultural marvels and other assets, we will attract more overnight stays and new business; resulting in more money being spent in the local economy and more jobs brought to Durham Region.”

Attendees enjoyed getting a head start on holiday shopping in the creative marketplace, which featured more than 50 local artisans showing off and selling their wares. Attendees also had the opportunity to taste Durham Region’s fine food, prepared by chefs from area restaurants who are contributing to Durham Region’s growing culinary tourism sector.

The day culminated with the presentation of the Durham Art of Transition Creative Awards (DATCA), which celebrated people and businesses that are contributing to the growth of the creative economy in Durham Region. The award statues, which were designed by local artist Edward Falkenberg, were presented to winners by Roger Anderson, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for Durham Region.

The following winners were recognized at the ceremony:

• The 25 of 25 street pARTy in Uxbridge (Best collaboration between business, the arts and community).
• The Driftwood Theatre Group’s Bard’s Bus Tour (Best entertainment in any medium).
• The Reflection Park in Port Perry (Best use of art and artists to advance social and environmental sustainability).
• Jane Eccles – Overlap exhibit (Best story about Durham Region in any medium).

To learn more about the award winners and the projects that earned them this recognition, as well as to view a list of all nominees, please visit www.artoftransition.ca. All nominees were also recognized and presented with a lapel pin—a sculpted, small-scale version of the DATCA statue.

For more information about the Durham Tourism Summit and Durham Art of Transition Creative Awards, visit www.artoftransition.ca or call 1-800-413-0017.

The Town of Ajax and Pickering Village BIA invite residents and visitors to join them for an olde fashioned holiday in the village on Dec. 3. Celebrate traditions of the past with historic Pickering Village as the backdrop for this merry event.

The festivities kick-off at 4 p.m. At 5:30 p.m., there will be an official ribbon-cutting to open the Pickering Village Urban Square(corner of Kingston Road and Old Kingston Road) followed by a Tree Lighting ceremony.

“The Town is proud to partner with the BIA on this holiday tradition,” says Deputy Mayor Shaun Collier. “ The Town is committed to working with the residents and businesses of Pickering Village to preserve and enhance its heritage attributes and support the development of a vibrant arts, culture and tourism destination.”

The Town will also mark the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the Pickering Village Urban Square – a gathering place for the community and gateway to downtown Pickering Village.

“The BIA’s annual Tree Lighting is bigger and better this year,” says Marsha Jones Dooley, Chair of the Pickering Village BIA. “Thanks to the Town of Ajax partnering with the BIA, this year’s event will be the best yet, come celebrate the re-opening of the Village, the official opening of the Urban Square and the spectacular Tree Lighting. Pickering Village is open and welcomes the community to experience our old fashion personal service.”

Activities include, horse-drawn carriage rides, live entertainment from Eastside Harmony Chorus & Harmony Highway Quartet, children’s crafts and more. All activities are free of charge and available while supplies last.

Please note Old Kingston Road will be closed from Kingston Road to Linton Avenue from 3:45 p.m. – 6 p.m.

For more information, please visit www.townofajax.com.

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

An independent judging panel of community leaders reviewed 34 nominations and selected the following award recipient, based on the impact of the contribution, as well as factors such as uniqueness, effectiveness, influence, and sustainability.

Best story about Durham Region in any medium

This award is given to an account of an event or series of events inspired by, or dedicated to, Durham Region. The winner of this award is Jane Eccles.

In fall 2011, Durham Region artist Jane Eccles presented a collection of her work at Whitby’s Station Gallery in an exhibition titled Overlap. Overlap highlighted exceptional moments in the lives of women, from Durham Region and beyond, through clothing and life stories in a series of paintings. The stories of these women, told through Overlap, travelled around the world under the leadership of Eccles. In addition to local media coverage, Eccles and her exhibition were featured on the front page of the Toronto Star, as well as on CBC radio programming that was carried in Cantonese to China—a first for a living Canadian artist. Eccles shone a bright light, not only her work and the stories of the women who inspired them, but on Durham Region, showcasing it as a valuable arts and culture hub on a global scale.

An independent judging panel of community leaders reviewed 34 nominations and selected the following award recipient, based on the impact of the contribution, as well as factors such as uniqueness, effectiveness, influence, and sustainability.

Best use of art and artists to advance social and environmental sustainability

This award recognizes any creative designed to advance social and environmental sustainability in Durham Region. The winner of this award is The Reflection Park, accepted by Bonnie Thomson and Marg Snider-McGrath.

The Reflection Park, Port Perry’s first public art project, was a collaborative endeavour that combined the ideas, energy and talent of the Township of Scugog’s youth and community supporters to encourage citizenship, volunteering and the preservation of green space. The Reflection Park transformed an unused green space in Port Perry into an inspirational garden, which is a public area for residents and tourists to enjoy. The Reflection Park is comprised of a stone mosaic created by more than 2,000 elementary students, landscaping designed by students, and plaques with reflective statements (written by students) to promote good citizenship. The project has a lasting legacy, as students have been instilled with a sense of ownership and pride, and the space is used as an outdoor classroom for educators in the Township of Scugog.

An independent judging panel of community leaders reviewed 34 nominations and selected the following award recipient, based on the impact of the contribution, as well as factors such as uniqueness, effectiveness, influence, and sustainability.

Best entertainment in any medium

This award is presented to a form of entertainment, which does not have to relate to the Region of Durham in any way, but must be conceived and developed by a resident of Durham Region. The winner of this award is The Driftwood Theatre Group’s Bard’s Bus Tour, accepted by Artistic Director and General Manager D. Jeremy Smith.

The Driftwood Theatre Group started more than 16 years ago as a small, Durham-based company and has since grown into a province-wide, professional theatre production group. The Bard’s Bus Tour is the Driftwood Theatre Group’s flagship work, as they host summer productions of Shakespeare works in more than 25 different communities across Ontario for pay-what-you-can admission. Thus, providing accessible, professional theatre for everyone. Driftwood Theatre Group remains true to its Durham roots by hosting 25 per cent of its performances within the Region, and remains an important piece of Durham’s cultural community.

An independent judging panel of community leaders reviewed 34 nominations and selected the following award recipient, based on the impact of the contribution, as well as factors such as uniqueness, effectiveness, influence, and sustainability.

Best collaboration between business, the arts and community

This award promotes co-operation and collaboration between independent artists and traditional business owners. The winner of this award is The 25 on 25 street pARTy (a collaboration of Uxbridge Studio Tour artists and the Uxbridge Celebration of the Arts committee), accepted by organizers Fly Freeman, Shelley Macbeth and Lynn Bishop.

The Uxbridge Celebration of the Arts is an annual arts and culture festival that takes place in the Township of Uxbridge. In recognition of the festival’s 25th anniversary, organizers planned a large street party featuring 25 art-themed events on Sept. 25, in conjunction with Culture Days. The event fostered new relationships between businesses in downtown Uxbridge and the arts community, as local artists were teamed up with businesses to produce unique, interactive art-themed events. More than 1,200 people attended the event and more artist events have taken place in businesses in Uxbridge since the event took place in 2010.

Tickets are only $20 plus HST (General Admission) and are available at the Ajax and McLean Community Centres and the St. Francis Centre Box Office. For Box Office Hours call 905-619-2529 ext. 2787 (ARTS). For more information visit www.stfranciscentre.ca

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Do you have your tickets to see Robin Sharma at the Durham Tourism Summit? Tickets are $30 +HST and includes a Sharma’s new book (compliments of Dagmar Resort) For info visit www.artoftransition.ca

Check out this article that just appeared in the Toronto Star….

Sharma shows the way; Novel maps out road to happiness Toronto Star Nov. 5, By: Paul Irish

Author Robin Sharma is the first to admit that some of the advice he gives in his novel/self help books could be considered cliché by some.

Rising to fame in 1998 with the release of The Monk Who sold his Ferrari, the Richmond Hill resident warns of the utter futility of “keeping up with the Joneses” or the sad irony of “ending up as the richest person in the graveyard.”

But he stands behind the adages as a path to freedom and so do most of the six million people who have read his dozen works, seven of which are international bestsellers.

He is one of the most widely read authors in the world and his latest release – The Secret Letters of theMonk Who Sold His Ferrari (Harper Collins $30) – will likely keep him at the top.

In the original work Sharma, 47, introduced the now-famous character Julian Mantle, a successful but misguided lawyer whose physical and emotional collapse propels him to confront his life.

After suffering a heart attack in a courtroom he renounces his worldly trappings and embarks on soul-awakening journey to the east where he meets the Great Sages of Sivana who offer enlightenment.

The result – for the reader – is an engaging odyssey on how to release one’s potential and live with passion, purpose and peace.

The follow up, the just-released Secret Letters of the Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, is just as intriguing and powerful.

Mantle falls ill (again) and sends his nephew, Jonathan Landry, on an international journey to retrieve Mantle’s letters and other reflectionson what he has learned on life.

The voyage moves from the Bosphorous River in Turkey to a remote fishing community in India to the catacombs of Paris revealing a series of life-changing lessons meant to help readers reconnect with what matters most in work and life.

“A lot of us don’t realize what’s most important until the last hour of the last day,” Sharma said in an interview. “Most people miss out on the life they should have had and could have had.”

But what is the most important thing in life?

The answer, according to the Mantle character (and, of course Sharma himself) is: “to find out what you truly love to do and then direct all your energy towards doing it. Once you do this, abundance flows into your life and all your desires are filled with ease and grace.”

Sharma says relationship building (family, friends, office colleagues, even people you meet on the GO train) is a close second.

His third premise on a fulfilling life is: (yes, we’ve all heard it before but he insists that it works): stop comparing your life to the life of your neighbour.

To be sure, Sharma is no Pollyanna and realizes bold changes can be difficult.

He knows most people live in a comfort zone as he did at one point in his life and he understands why, it’s safe. And he also understands it’s hard to start a new direction once you begin a journey – but he insists if it’s sad and unfulfilling, it’s time to stop.

“Change takes courage,” he says. “If you’re not scared often, you’re not making much progress.”

A former litigation lawyer who became disgruntled with his job, its long hours and his sense of emptiness, Sharma turned to self help literature – loved it – and decided to share a synthesis of what he learned.

As well as being an author, he’s also the CEO of Sharma Leadership International., a success-coaching and training firm with clients such as FedEx, IBM, Microsoft, GM, Nike and Panasonic.

He says the world has entered a period where technology has become the master of man instead of the other way around.

He stresses he’s not a Luddite – he’s a strong believer in the Internet and the rest of the digital world – but warns we shouldn’t become hypnotized by our glowing computer screens.

The father of a teenaged son and daughter who have BlackBerrys, Sharma makes sure the pair read at least an hour of literature a night and has them active in sports and other non-electronic activities.

Most importantly, he’s making sure they develop strong ties with family and friends.

“A lot of people – including mothers, father, sisters and brothers – are losing the ability to relate to one another,” he says. “We have to relearn how to connect.”

Kerri King Manager, Tourism

Planning and Economic Development Department Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East, PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Toll Free: 1-800-413-0017 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228

http://www.durhamtourism.ca

The Durham Tourism Summit will showcase Durham Region’s vibrant and creative tourism industry. Up to 40 exhibitors will represent Durham’s three top tourism industry sectors: sport; agri-business; and arts, culture and heritage. The marketplace floor, open from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., will be free for members of the public to attend. Visitors will learn about Durham Regions dynamic tourism industry through tradeshow booths; culinary samplings featuring Savour the Season restaurants; arts, culture and heritage displays (including Artisans Alley will local artists will have their work on display); and more.

In order to continue the growth and development of Durham Regions creative economy, the Durham Tourism Summit will also offer a tourism industry speaker series, including guest speakers, panel discussions and networking sessions for local businesses-presented by Central Counties Tourism.

Robin Sharma–a best-selling author and expert on leadership, change management and personal mastery–will deliver his keynote address following a business breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Tickets for the keynote presentation are $30 (plus HST and applicable service charges) and include an autographed copy of Sharma’s new book, Letters From The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, compliments of Dagmar Ski Resort. Tickets can be ordered online at www.durhamtourism.ca.

Other presentations, which are free of charge to attend, will take place throughout the day. These include:

• Steven Thorne, Specialist in Place-based Cultural Tourism, will present about why place is the key to cultural tourism from 10 to 10:45 a.m.
• A cycle tourism panel, consisting of Eleanor McMahon (President and Founder, Share the Road), Louisa Mursell (Project Manager, Welcome Cyclists Network) and Melissa Claxton-Oldfield (President, Oshawa Cycling Network), and facilitated by Jeff Brooks (Principal Planner, Durham Region), will take place from 10:50 to 11:45 a.m.
• Chef David Hawey and students from Durham Colleges Culinary Skills program will demonstrate how to create tasty appetizers utilizing local food from noon to 12:50 p.m.
• Rebecca LeHeup, Executive Director, Ontario Culinary Tourism Alliance (OCTA), will discuss culinary tourism from 1 to 2 p.m.
• Barry A. Martin, Principal, Hypenotic Marketing, will talk about social media from 2 to 2:45 p.m.
• Donna Zuchlinski, Film Commissioner, Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC), and Brian Malcom, Executive Director, Parkwood National Historic Site, will present about the film industry from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m.
• Michael Hackenberger, Director, Bowmanville Zoo, will present about customer service excellence from 3:15 to 3:45 p.m. – William Lishman, artist, will present about creativity from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m.

The Durham Tourism Summit is a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to discover Durham Region’s dynamic attractions, innovative businesses and thriving creative culture, said Kathy Weiss, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for Durham Region. In addition, by providing unique learning and collaboration opportunities for Durham Region’s business community, we will continue to strengthen our tourism industry–a major economic driver in Durham Region.

The day will culminate with the presentation of the inaugural Durham Art of Transition Creative Awards (DATCA). This community-driven initiative aims to celebrate and promote the creative economy in Durham Region. Led by a committee of community members, its a spin-off initiative of the Art of Transition symposium held by Durham Tourism in November 2009.

Awards to be presented are:

- Best collaboration among business, the arts and the community. – Best story about Durham Region in any medium. – Best entertainment in any medium. – Best use of art and artists to advance social and environmental sustainability.

Nominations were received until Oct. 7, and are now in the hands of the DATCA judging committee, consisting of Ian Ross, Chief Executive Officer of the Whitby Public Library; David Prusinski, Communications and technology expert; Joanne Burghardt, Editor-in-chief of Metroland Durham Region Media Group; Wayne Conrad, Chief Scientist at Omachron; Don Terry, Director of Nuclear Public Affairs at Ontario Power Generation; Jonathon Kotsopoulos, a Grade 11 student at J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate in Ajax; and Sharon Kennedy, Executive Director of Central Counties Tourism–all of whom are residents of Durham Region. Awards will be presented by Roger Anderson, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Members of the public are encouraged to attend this free event.

For more information on the Durham Tourism Summit and DATCA visit www.artoftransition.ca.

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Media inquiries: THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM: Melissa Bies – Communications Co-ordinator 905-668-7711 ext. 2607 or melissa.bies@durham.ca

If this information is required in an accessible format, please contact 1-800-372-1102 ext. 2607.

The call for award submissions was put out in early September. The DATCA committee received many submissions from local artists for the commission of the statue design. Falkenberg was selected by a committee of volunteers from the arts community in Durham Region as the successful artist to design the awards statue.

The selection committee felt that Edward Falkenbergs artist statement best represented the spirit of the Art of Transition movement in Durham Region, and will be a recognized symbol of the ever-growing creative economy in Durham Region for years to come, said Kerri King, Tourism Manager for Durham Region. We are honoured to have received many creative submissions from talented artists in the community. We thank everyone who submitted their design.

Falkenberg, an honours graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design, has lived in Claremont, a hamlet of Pickering, with his wife since 1968. For more than 40 years, he has been producing art for public spaces around the world, including the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; the prestigious Bretton Place Apartments in Toronto; the Pickering Town Centre mall in Pickering; and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) campus in Oshawa.

The DATCA statue will be the second award statue in Durham Region designed by Falkenberg–he is commissioned annually by the Rouge Valley Health System to produce an original sculpture for the recipient of the Howard Sokolowsky Award for outstanding support of the Ajax-Pickering Hospital.

An active member of the arts and culture scene in Durham Region, Falkenberg initiated the development of a public art centre in west Durham Region. This concept grew into the Durham West Arts Centre, which opened in 2004.

Five DATCA statues will be handed out on Nov. 25 to winners of awards in five categories:

Best collaboration among business, the arts and the community. Best story about Durham Region in any medium. Best entertainment in any medium. Best integration of art and culture in the workplace. Best use of art and artists to advance social and environmental sustainability.

Statues will be engraved with the recipients name, award category and year. The DATCA is a community-driven initiative to celebrate and promote the creative economy in Durham Region, led by a committee of community members and is a spin-off initiative of the Art of Transition symposium held by Durham Tourism in November 2009.

For more information about DATCA, please visit www.artoftransition.ca.

Office-Identity-OshawaB-WPosterInvite.pdf

Check out this great opportunity to attend an International Festival of Authors event right here in Durham!

Sarah Winman, author of the critically acclaimed and much talked about When God was a Rabbit will be here with Yvvette Edwards, author of the Booker longlisted debut novel A Cupboard Full of Coats.

Thom Ernst from TVO will be the moderator as Winman and Edwards discuss their books and their writing.

Blue Heron Books of Uxbridge will be on hand to sell books and the authors will be doing book signings.

The event takes place this Thursday, October 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Centennial Building, 416 Centre Street South, Whitby.

Tickets are available at all branches of the Whitby Public Library and online at http://www.litontour.com/events/ifoa-durham.

Kerri King Manager, Tourism

Planning and Economic Development Department Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East, PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Toll Free: 1-800-413-0017 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228

http://www.durhamtourism.ca

Ontario Public Libraries Discover Your Library – Renew Yourself

Whitby, Ontario, March 25, 2011 -

This year marks the 26th Anniversary of Ontario Public Library Week and the 100th anniversary of the Whitby Public Library.

Public libraries play crucial roles in contributing to a community’s overall livability. Ensconced as dynamic hubs central to generating economic improvement, welcoming newcomers and promoting literacy, the public libraries of today are integral to our province’s growth and cultural vitality.

We invite to you renew yourself by visiting your public library to discover worlds where the past meets the future and engages your imagination and curiosity. Join the thousands of Ontarians who already recognize the value of their local library and are making the most of the free services available such as resources on job opportunities, career planning and training, small business management, and services like literacy programs, computer skills development and supports for newcomers, seniors, and students.

This year Durham public libraries (Ajax, Brock Township, Clarington, Oshawa, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge and Whitby) will launch Ontario Public Library Week, with Whitby Public Library’s Central Library hosting the formal kick-off, Monday, October 17, 2011. Special guests will include the Honourable Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism and Culture, Whitby Mayor Pat Perkins and local dignitaries.

Events will begin at 2:00 PM with a 30-minute reception hosted by the Whitby Public Library Board at which the Board Chairs and CEOs of Durham Region libraries, the Whitby Mayor and Council and other regional representatives will be invited to meet and mingle with Minister Chan and his staff. This will be followed by a 30-minute public ceremony to launch Ontario Public Library Week. The ceremony will be followed by refreshments and tours of the Central Library.

For additional information, please contact: Ian Ross, CEO, Whitby Public Library, 905-668-6541 Ext. 2222

Saturday 12 November, 2011

A Photography Auction Fundraiser in Support of The Robert McLaughlin Gallery.

RMG EXPOSED is a juried photo competition and photography auction that promotes and raises awareness about The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, contemporary photography, as well as showcases the talent of regional and national photographers. The evening includes a live auction and music, food and drink, silent auction and more. Please follow the progress of the 2011 event including our call for entries and learn more about the 2010 event and at www.rmgexposed.com http://www.rmgexposed.com/ . The juried competition was selected from nearly 300 entries and includes dynamic works. A two day advance preview is being held at the gallery on Thursday and Friday November 10/11. Come in to see the live and silent auction works in advance of the sale event!

VIP Event tickets are $60 each and include a lecture by Linda Rodeck, managing director of Sotheby’s Canada. Main event tickets are $40 each. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the RMG reception desk. http://www.rmg.on.ca/RMG-exposed.php

The Durham Art of Transition Creative Awards (DATCA) are a new expression of corporate and civil citizenship in Durham Region, designed to engage creativity, innovation and collaboration in Durham Region’s business community. By building on the momentum from the 2009 Art of Transition Symposium, the awards will continue to grow Durham Region’s creative economy – including large corporations, small- and medium-sized enterprises, non-profit organizations and government – by celebrating creative minds in Durham Region.

“Art is for everyone. Over the next 2 years we will work to develop and deliver barrier-free arts programming in Durham Region,” she said. “In 2014, we will share our inclusion model with other small to mid-sized galleries across Ontario and beyond.”

The announcement comes on the heels of new funding support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation that will build Station Gallery’s organizational capacity to bring their high demand family art programs to a satellite location in Brooklin.

“We’re ramping up with new staff, volunteers and specialized training,” adds Raetsen-Kemp.

The Ministry of Tourism and Culture is on board too, contributing funding to overhaul Station Gallery’s web presence as an arts and culture portal in Durham Region, accessible to everyone.

“We’re a free public art gallery,” says Raetsen-Kemp. “We will be accessible to all members of the public. And where they can’t come to us, we can provide a virtual arts experience through our website.”

Other corporate and private donors are endorsing the initiative. National private foundations have made donations and pledged multi-year support.

A corporate funder in Durham Region is championing a Station Gallery initiative that sends professional young artists into Lakeridge Health Whitby’s geriatric rehabilitation program.

“Art brings people together. This project is important on so many levels. The Lakeridge patients are members of this community who are struggling with becoming dependant on caregivers and isolated from friends and family. The experiences they share through the creation of art are models of social sustainability. It changes the lives of the patients and the artist instructors for the better,” says Raetsen-Kemp.

Rotarians from the Whitby Sunrise Club have also pledged their support. The program is set to begin this fall, although the gallery still needs to raise $4,000 in donations to cover the cost of program delivery.

For more information, visit www.whitbystationgallery.com.

A family day on Oct. 15 features Friends of Sunflower the Clown, who will paint faces and make balloon animals, and a screening of Kung Fu Panda 2. The panda will even be on site to meet the kids! Food such as pizza, popcorn and possibly Booster Juice will be provided and everything is free.

From Oct. 17 to 19, The Imagine Film Festival is showing feature films: Soul Surfer, The Beaver and This Dust of Words. Each film starts at 7 p.m. and all are free.

Oct. 20 is the main event; An Evening with Steven Page. Page will share his connection with mental illness and perform a short musical set. Tickets are $25 and going fast!

Check out the website for more info: www.ontarioshores.ca/imagine.

Arts, Culture and Non-Profit Community Groups

Interested in the world of social media and finding out how to build your organization’s online presence? Find out how social media can help your organization and how to use it as a marketing tool. Presenter: Rob Rock, Search Engine People, Ajax.

Facebook – Introduction This workshop will focus on Facebook and cover what Facebook is, how to create an account and what ways a not-for-profit organization can use Facebook to build awareness. Date: Tuesday October 4 Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Ajax Public Library, Main Branch, Rotary Room – 55 Harwood Ave. S. (Next to Town Hall)

Twitter This workshop will focus on Twitter and discuss what Twitter is, how to create an account and what ways a not-for-profit organization can use Twitter to market their organization. Date: Tuesday November 01

Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Ajax Public Library, Main Branch, Rotary Room – 55 Harwood Ave. S. (Next to Town Hall)

Google Plus Google + is the newest social media site developed by Google. It is an extremely fast growing site and one that everyone should keep an eye on. This workshop will cover what Google+ is, how to create an account and what ways a not-for-profit organization can use Google+ for building awareness. Date: Tuesday November 15 Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Ajax Public Library, Main Branch, Rotary Room – 55 Harwood Ave. S. (Next to Town Hall)

Facebook – Advanced This workshop takes a more in-depth look at Facebook, more advanced strategies will be developed and refine the way Facebook is currently being used. Date: Tuesday November 29 Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Location: Ajax Public Library, Main Branch, Rotary Room – 55 Harwood Ave. S. (Next to Town Hall)

Reserve your seat by e-mailing sharlene.melnike@townofajax.com or by calling Sharlene Melnike at 905-619-2529 ext. 7232. Reservations are required to attend and are taken on a first come basis. Provide your name, the organization name, a contact telephone number and e-mail address.

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

Combining her powerful voice with comedic wit, musical theatre diva Sharron Matthews shares a hilarious and often heartbreaking journey from small town Ontario to the beaconing lights of Broadway. Weaving together stories that are both poignant and uproarious, Sharron takes you from her first job in Les Miserables to starring roles on Broadway and in film. Featuring music from ‘West Side Story’, ‘Guys and Dolls’, ‘Grease’ and other Broadway favourites, this high energy evening of music and comedy is guaranteed to entertain and enchant audiences.

“Sharron Matthews is PERFECTION” – Toronto Star “Matthews is a STUNNING PERFORMER” – Hamilton Spectator “Vocally Exquisite” – XTRA

The St. Francis Centre box office is open Tuesdays to Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. For more information call 905-619-2529 ext. 2787 (ARTS) or visit www.stfranciscentre.ca

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

Kerri King Manager, Tourism

Planning and Economic Development Department Regional Municipality of Durham 605 Rossland Road East, PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Toll Free: 1-800-372-1102 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6208

http://www.durhamtourism.ca

The arts and culture festival is occurring nation wide, and will be celebrated by a number of communities across Canada, including Durham Region.

We are thrilled to have such a variety of talented local artists participating in Culture Days this year, said Kathy Weiss, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for Durham Region. This is a great opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the rich culture and heritage that Durham Region has to offer.

More than 60 events throughout all eight area municipalities have been registered on the Durham Tourism website. For an updated listing of these events, please visit www.durhamtourism.ca.

Although the festival is only weeks away, Durham Tourism is still encouraging all interested artists, event producers and arts organizations in the region to register their Culture Days event online at www.durhamtourism.ca and www.culturedays.ca.

Culture Days encourages Durham residents and visitors to explore their creativity, and provides local artists and creative venues with an opportunity to promote themselves and their business, explained Kerri King, Manager of Tourism for Durham Region.

For more information, call Durham Tourism at 1-800-413-0017 or email tourism@durham.ca.

Now in its eighth year, with a total site attendance of over 20,000, Doors Open Oshawa 2011 features 22 sites, including three new sites, open to the public from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm (unless otherwise noted). Visit www.heritageoshawa.ca for a complete listing of participating sites and for information on special activities during the weekend.

Glimpse inside unique historical buildings, explore local architecture and culture, enjoy live concerts, view special displays, and choose from numerous lunch options. The sites are arranged in clusters and include a mix of commercial offices, museums, churches, cemeteries, naturalized areas and former private homes.

Look for the Doors Open Oshawa brochure at local library branches, museums, Service Oshawa, Oshawa Tourist Information Centre and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery.

Doors Open is a province-wide celebration of community heritage designed to create access, awareness and excitement about our heritage. Doors Open provides residents and visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy sometimes hidden and always interesting places and spaces in our cities, towns and villages – all free of charge.

A dedicated committee of community volunteers, under the umbrella of Heritage Oshawa, and with the support of the Ontario Heritage Trust, has organized Doors Open Oshawa. This remarkable event is made possible through the support of local volunteers, the partnership of heritage organizations, and through the City of Oshawa, CKDO, Rogers Television, Channel 12, UOIT and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery.

Heritage Oshawa (an advisory committee of Oshawa City Council) is responsible for advising and assisting Council on matters related to heritage conservation of individual buildings of historical and/or architectural significance, and for promoting heritage conservation within the community. For more information, visit www.heritageoshawa.ca.

RMG EXPOSED is a juried photo competition and photography auction being held on Saturday, November 12, 2011 to promote and raise awareness about The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, contemporary photography, as well as showcase the talent of regional and national photographers. The evening includes a live auction, great music and food and a silent auction composed of the winning and honorable mention selections made by the jury from the open photography competition.

Check out last years winners at www.rmgexposed.com

By participating in the competition and being selected as a finalist, your donation to the silent auction helps support vital programmes and educational events at Durham’s largest public art gallery, the RMG.

Submission Rules

● Submit a maximum of 3 images, totaling a maximum of 5mb in size.

● Completed application form

● A brief biography (maximum 100 words)

Selected Participants Final Submissions

Selected artists will be notified by email on October 11th by email following jury review. If your work is selected you will be asked to deliver your printed image to the RMG no later than October 21st. All works will be matted and mounted in the gallery for public preview and sold at the silent auction during the RMG Exposed Event. Prize winners in each of the five categories will be announced during the event. Minimum print dimension for submission is 16 x 12 inches

Timeline Schedule

● Deadline for receipt of all submissions is Monday, October 3rd, 2011 at 4:00PM EST.
● Applicants will be notified of their status by email by October 11th.
● Delivery of selected works for silent auction October 21st.
● Submit photos to jcampbell@rmg.on.ca

Prizes:

Aecom Prize

• Best Overall – $650 + Portfolio Review TBA
• Second Overall – $200 Henry’s Gift Card
• Best Photo Journalism – Stephen Bulger Gallery Portfolio Review

Pikto Prize

• Best Landscape – $500 Pikto Gift Card
• Best Conceptional/Non-Representational – Prize TBA
• Best Student – $200 Robert Aldsworth’s Photo World Gift Card www.rmgexposed.com

The Awards are conferred in two categories: an individual artist award of $35,000 and an arts organization award of $50,000. Nominations can recognize a candidate engaged in any professional arts practice including (but not limited to) community arts, crafts, dance, music, opera, theatre, visual and media arts, writing or cultural industries such as book and magazine publishing, digital media, film, television and sound recording.

The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) administers the selection process for the Awards on behalf of the Government of Ontario. For more information contact the OAC at: 416-961-1660 ext. 6666, toll free 1-800-387-0058 ext 6666 or info@arts.on.ca.

Now is the time to recognize and celebrate great artists and arts organizations in strengthening your community and local economy. Nominations are due December 1, 2011.

Details about the Awards, guidelines and nomination forms are posted on the Ontario Arts Council website. http://www.mtc.gov.on.ca/en/awards_funding/Premiers_awards.shtml

Ibghy studied philosophy and afterwards earned an MBA at the École des Hautes Études Commerciales de Montréal. Lemmens studied photography before completing a MFA at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver.

The duo have been working in collaboration since 2002 and exhibiting across Canada and in Europe. This year they were invited to present their work at the 10th Sharjah Biennial in the United Arab Emirates.

Station Gallery in Whitby was introduced to their work through Michael Belmore. Belmore exhibited his own work at SG in 2009. He makes a much anticipated return as guest curator of the Ibghy Lemmens show entitled “The Promise of a Promised Land.”

“What a thrill to bring this innovative installation to the community,” says SG curator, Olex Wlasenko. “We couldn’t have done it without funding from the Ontario Arts Council and support from the Baagwating Community Association.”

The exhibition which run from September 10th – October 23rd.

To find out more about upcoming Station Gallery exhibitions, call 905-668-4185 or visit www.whitbystationgallery.com.

Comics from all over the world will be performing in Oshawa from Wed. Sept. 14th until Sat. Sept. 17th.

After having the opportunity to see Brad Garrett perform in Toronto, DRCF President, Rich Weisz, decided to organize a comedy festival in the Durham Region. Rich’s father, George Weisz, passed away in November, 2010. George was a member of the Oshawa Committee of Adjustments for over 30 years and he was also the Oshawa Harbour Commissioner. Rich states that, “I wanted to have this festival in memory of my father, while also raising a portion of funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.”

This festival is the first of its kind in the Durham Region and organizers guarantee that the people attending will be crying due to the amount of laughter they experience.

The star-studded line-up mainly consists of home-grown Canadian talent, as we would love to showcase some of our Country’s comedic successes.

On Wednesday, Sept. 14th, our opening night features “Randy & Mr. Lahey” from the hit show, The Trailer Park Boys. The last time they performed at the Green Bottle, it was a smoking success.

For information about more Durham Region Comedy Festival events during the month of September, visiw www.drcf.ca.

Attend any of the restaurants featured as a part of Savour the Season to enjoy prix fixe (fixed-price) lunch and dinner menus. These menus offer mouth-watering dishes, many of which are prepared using fresh-from-the-farm ingredients. This gives diners the chance to taste Durham Regions fall harvest, while at the same time supporting local restaurants and farms.

In its premier year, Savour the Season features 29 casual- and fine-dining restaurants, located across Durham Region. Chefs are preparing these multi-course lunch and dinner menus, starting at $20. Many dishes are inspired by and created using fresh, local food-including meat, cheese, fruits, vegetables, and even maple syrup-from 35 different Durham Region farmers and producers.

Savour the Season will show off Durham Regions diverse agriculture and hospitality industries, and is sure to be a great economic driver, said Kerri King, Tourism Manager for Durham Region. This is a great way for residents of Durham Region to support local business while enjoying a savoury seasonal meal.

Visitors to the Savour the Season website at www.durhamsavourtheseason.ca, can sort restaurants by area municipality, view full menus, and learn about the farm-fresh products being used. An interactive map makes it easy to locate Savour the Season restaurants in each area.

Reservations for Savour the Season are recommended, and should be made directly with the participating restaurant. For more information, visit www.durhamsavourtheseason.ca or call Durham Tourism at 1-800-413-0017.

With just one passport, the Heritage Culinary Tour will take you to four of the most majestic historic sites in the region, giving you an extensive inside look at houses built more than a century ago. It will also allow you to walk through breathtaking, landscaped gardens and to taste of some of the finest gourmet foods the GTA has to offer.

The four historic sites opening their doors for the weekend tour include Parkwood National Historic Site, (Oshawa), Garden of Eden (Whitby), Heritage House (Ajax), and the Pickering Museum Village (Pickering).

The Heritage Culinary Tour is also the kick-off event for Savour the Season, a 10-day culinary experience featuring 29 of Durham’s best casual and fine dining restaurants working with 35 local growers and producers. It showcases local farms and chefs, providing fresh-from-the-garden choices to consumers and supporting the local economy. www.durhamsavourtheseason.ca

Kerri King, Tourism Manager for the Regional Municipality of Durham, says she is pleased the two events are working together to help showcase the vast culinary delights as well as the historic beauty of the region. “This is a great example of a collaborative effort that helps showcase Durham as a unique tourist destination,” she says.

Each location will feature its own unique appetizers, all of them prepared by chef Cathy Brown and her team in the kitchens of Heritage House Catering. The menu for the tour will feature 10 gourmet appetizers as outlined below.

HCT Passports are $49 per person and $79 per couple. Options include Sunday brunch at Parkwood ($15 per person) or special overnight package at Whitby Holiday Inn Express, Ajax ($135). The tour runs Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the exception of the Pickering Museum Village, which is open Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 12 to 3 p.m. You can purchase your Passports online at www.heritageculinarytour.com or at The Heritage House after Aug. 29.

Station Gallery is hosting WAVE: Summer Music, a music event that showcases local artists from the community. On August 25th from 7pm to 9:30 p.m., past Station Gallery employee Darrin Davis returns to perform with his band The Strip, on quite a familiar stage. Returning from a tour that’s taken them from sold-out shows at the Horseshoe, The Strip brings their indie-rock styling’s to the local landscape.

As the second performance in the music series, returning fans can expect the same gourmet pub-style hors d’oeuvres and cold drinks from the bar. Sponsored by Steam Whistle and Durham Tourism, the evening’s entertainment is for those aged 19 and above.

“The WAVE: Summer Music series at Whitby’s Station Gallery is a great example of art and music joining forces in Durham Region to create wonderful events for members of our community to enjoy,” said Kerri King, Manager of Tourism with the Regional Municipality of Durham. “Events such as these help our creative community thrive while at the same time raising money for a great cause.”

Ticket proceeds from the WAVE: Summer Music performance series benefit Station Gallery’s community art workshops and classes. Tickets are on sale now and are available online at http://sgmusic.eventbrite.com/

To find out more about upcoming Station Gallery events and performances, call 905-668-4185 or visit www.whitbystationgallery.com.

I recently had a chance to attend the wonderful launch of the new Farmers’ Market in at the Pickering Town Centre and loved the variety of vendors and products……the market is open every Tuesdays from 2pm-7pm. That’s today!

Also, I just heard from Don Terry of OPG and he reports that the Farmers’ Market at Pickering Nuclear has an amazing selection of local farm fresh fruits and veggies, including orange and purple cauliflower (which have more nutrients that regular cauliflower). Don says that people have been raving about the strudels and meat pies….there are baked goods, preserves, all natural beef, kielbasa, pepperoni, honey, cheese, kettle popcorn, and much more! The Farmers’ Market at OPG runs every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking area on the northwest side of Montgomery Park Road in Pickering (Brock Road south). Congratulations to the folks at OPG for their leadership promoting local food!

Book your calendar today….I plan to visit tomorrow on my lunch break!

Enjoy the bounty of this beautiful region everyone!

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

FarmFresh_8 5x11_Flyer_2011.pdf

Music: From fiddle sensation Mark Sullivan to Canadian Music Icon Murray McLauchlan, and the exceptional talent of The Sadies, enjoy 12 hours of grass roots music.

Food: Hungry from the fresh air? Check out the local cuisine in the fresh food market.

Artists: Stroll through the paddock area will be converted into a unique gallery housing artists and artisans.

Family fun zone: Explore & learn with games, races, and activities for the whole family.

CAMfest is a one-day celebration of the creative talents of Clarington residents & neighbours. It’s a great community spirit builder, destined to become one of Clarington’s signature annual events. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.camfest.ca.

While the music alone is reason enough to check out the show, the event also promises gourmet, pub-style hors d’oeuvres and cold drinks from the bar. Sponsored by Steam Whistle, with support provided by Durham Tourism with the Region of Durham, the evening is for those aged 19 and above.

“The WAVE: Summer Music series at Whitby’s Station Gallery is a great example of art and music joining forces in Durham Region to create wonderful events for members of our community to enjoy,” said Kerri King, Manager of Tourism with the Regional Municipality of Durham. “Events such as these help our creative community thrive while at the same time raising money for a great cause.”

If you can’t make the Campfire Boys in July, make sure you check out The Strip performing on Aug. 25. Same time as Campfire Boys, the show runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. and this time features hip and trendy indie-style tunes.

Ticket proceeds from the WAVE: Summer Music performance series benefit Station Gallery’s community art workshops and classes. Tickets are on sale now and are available online at http://sgmusic.eventbrite.com/

To find out more about upcoming Station Gallery events and performances, call 905-668-4185 or visit www.whitbystationgallery.com.

How will you explore Durham Region this summer?

If you’re like me, you’ll take your family to the trails and discover Durham on two wheels.

Did you know more than 350 kilometres of recreational trails intertwine throughout our region? From waterfront paths to the rolling hills of the Oak Ridges Moraine, Durham abounds with excellent cycling routes. The trails will take you through a variety of landscapes and allow you to take in urban cities, small hamlets, conservation areas and lush forests, all while experiencing the region’s bountiful beauty. To order a Durham Region Trails guide, visit www.durhamtourism.ca.

Our province also boasts a wide variety of cycling opportunities, including a breathtaking path along the Waterfront Trail. This route connects 900 kilometres of scenic shorelines along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. From peaceful countryside to big cities, this trail links different communities and habitats together, creating a great, diverse ride for the whole family. Visit www.waterfrontrail.org.

Each day, about one million car trips are made both to and from Durham Region. As a result, roads can become congested, especially during peak travel periods. Why not leave the gridlock behind and get in gear? Providing more than just recreation, cycling to work can be a fun commuting option and a viable transportation alternative for many of us. Smart Commute Durham offers a number of resources for cyclists, as well as for organizations that employ 50 or more individuals. Visit www.smartcommutedurham.ca.

I’m always looking to support a good cause and each year the Ride 4 United Way provides a day full of fun, positive energy, with great music and food. Taking place this year on Aug. 28, and venturing through Oshawa, Clarington and Scugog, this charity ride provides three distance routes for avid cyclists, as well as a shorter community path. If you’re interested in being part of a large group of cyclists who ride for a reason, this event is for you. Visit www.ride4unitedway.com.

If you’re searching for bicycle-friendly places to eat, visit and sleep along your adventures, new networks such as Welcome Cyclists can assist. This program promotes bicycle-friendly businesses across Ontario, including establishments right here in Durham Region. Join the network for access to even more cycling routes, guides and transportation options. Visit www.welcomecyclists.ca.

This season, enjoy active, healthy living and get the most out of summer. See you on the trail.

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

If you’re planning on going to Whitby Harbour Days, then a stop at the Whitby Yacht Club at the foot of Gordon Street (2 blocks west of Brock) is a definite must. A silent art auction of contemporary and modern works, will be held from Saturday to Sunday for public bidding.

“It’s the best lakeview in Whitby,” boasts John LaTour, Whitby Yacht Club member.

Should you need to fuel up before you bid, indulge in some mouth-watering enchiladas and fajitas on the main floor of the Clubhouse, thanks to catering by local restaurant Los Cabos. They’ve also organized a complimentary wine and cheese sampling on the upper deck between 1 pm – 4pm, if you need some cabernet courage to make that next artwork bid!

Whitby Yacht Club has played many roles in the locally-supported Whitby Harbour Days. This year continues that tradition, as a host venue with great food, live entertainment and fun with arts and culture by the lake.

The silent auction artwork will be on display at Whitby Yacht Club was donated by local artists and directed through Whitby Yacht Club neighbours, Station Gallery.

To find out more about Whitby Yacht Club and their activities for Harbour Days, call 905-668-1391or visit www.wyc.ca

Nicolas Boulerice, Simon Beaudry, Olivier Demers, and Réjean Brunet will soon take the stage at the Music Hall to help raise funds for our community’s premier festival, the Uxbridge Celebration of the Arts.

“Momentum is building and tickets are selling fast,” says John Jackson, co-chairperson of the 2011 festival.

Le Vent du Nord performs traditional Québécois tunes, influenced by Celtic music from both Ireland and Brittany. Known for foot stomping accompanying the music, they have received several prestigious awards, including a Juno. The band is now one of the most-loved Quebec folk outfits throughout the world. They recently played a charity show for the Uxbridge Music Scholarship fund and wowed audiences.

“We are so thrilled to partner with this talented group of musicians,” says Rita Jackson, co-chairperson of the 2011 Uxbridge Celebration of the Arts. “They are a perfect match with Uxbridge’s creative community to help raise funds for our festival.”

Their performance at the Uxbridge Music Hall on Thursday, July 21 also includes a live auction with Graham Wilson, auctioning off pieces from five local artists. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., with the performance at 8 p.m.

Those who purchase tickets by July 17 are entered to win a set of personally autographed CDs from the band.

All monies raised will support the 26th Uxbridge Celebration of the Arts, an annual arts and culture festival celebrating creativity in all its forms. The month-long event features the world-renowned Uxbridge Studio Tour, youth bands performance, juried art show for adults and kids, sculpture expose, culinary samplings, famous author speaker series and more.

Tickets are $30 and are available online at www.celebrationofthearts.ca or in person at Select Art Galleries (13 Brock St. W., 905 852 5010) and Presents, Presents, Presents (60 Brock St. W., 905 852 9544).

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

GENERAL MOTORS CENTRE NAMED ONE OF
THE TOP VENUES IN THE WORLD!

Ranked No. 18 in the world by Venues Today in their “2011 Mid-Year Top Stops” report for venues of 5,001-8,000 capacity!

( Oshawa, ON) – Global Spectrum Facility Management is proud to announce today that the General Motors Centre has been recognized by Venues Today Magazine as one of the top venues in the world in its category size. This is an honourable achievement for the General Motors Centre, as it is the first time the venue has entered into the top 20 rankings.

“Congratulations to Global Spectrum and the dedicated staff at the General Motors Centre as they bask in the glory of being named in the Top 20 Venues in the World (5,001 to 10,000 capacity) by Venues Today Magazine. I look forward as Oshawa’s own GMC continues its tradition of quality entertainment for our community and all who come to visit, or entertain within our borders,” said Mayor John Henry.

Venues Today Magazine released their 2011 Mid-Year Top Stops rankings yesterday; a bi-annual report released, showcasing the top 20 venues around the world. The report is based on concert and non-sports event gross sales and attendance between October 16, 2010 and May 15, 2011. All venues are placed into categories which are separated by capacity ranges; the General Motors Centre falls into the 5,001-10,000 category, and was ranked No. 18. With a total of 10 events during the specified time period, the venue experienced 7 sold out dates, and welcomed over 32,000 fans.

“We are thrilled and honored to be recognized by Venues Today Magazine as one of the top 20 Venues in the World (5,001 to 10,000 capacity).” said Vince Vella of Global Spectrum and General Manager of the General Motors Centre. “This remarkable achievement, along with our nomination as Top Venue of the Year (Under 8,000 capacity) for the second year in a row during the 2011 Canadian Music Week Awards, is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team and a reflection of the resounding support we have received from our friends in the entertainment industry and our community.”

The unveiling of these rankings is a welcomed addition to the accomplishments seen by the General Motors Centre recently. The venue has been nominated at Canadian Music Week two years in a row as Major Facility of the Year for facilities under 8,000 seats. Global Spectrum also celebrated a record breaking year for 2010 at the General Motors Centre, which includes a total of 226,256 in attendance, $5,260,210 in gross ticket sales, and 8 sold out events (compared to 2 in 2009).

Notable performances that were included in the report for the General Motors Centre are: Johnny Reid, Great Big Sea, Jeff Dunham, Disney Live!, Alan Jackson, Lord of the Dance, Sarah Mclachlan, Bill Engvall & Larry the Cable Guy, and Burton Cummings.

Kerri King
Tourism Manager
The Regional Municipality of Durham
Economic Development and Tourism
605 Rossland Road East
Level 5
PO Box 623
Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606
Fax: 905.666.6228
Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca
www.durham.ca

THIS MESSAGE IS FOR THE USE OF THE INTENDED RECIPIENT(S) ONLY AND MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS PRIVILEGED, PROPRIETARY, CONFIDENTIAL, AND/OR EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER ANY RELEVANT PRIVACY LEGISLATION. No rights to any privilege have been waived. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, retransmission, dissemination, distribution, copying, conversion to hard copy, taking of action in reliance on or other use of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient and have received this message in error, please notify me by return e-mail and delete or destroy all copies of this message.

The Culture Days event weekend is less then 3 months away. If you’re still thinking about registering an activity, now is the time to do so! Register by August 5, 2011 to participate in the Culture Days Activity Registration Promotion and you could be featured in an ad within The Globe and Mail, Culture Days’ National Newspaper Partner.

Go to www.culturedays.ca to register your Durham Region event!

If you’ve already registered an activity, don’t worry! You too will have the opportunity to be included; you’ll be receiving an email shortly regarding how to participate in this promotion.

Melanie Baker of Pickering will see her artwork displayed throughout historic Pickering Village as the winner of a Town contest to add artistic flair to the area. In April 2011, the Town of Ajax launched a contest for the design of a street banner for the Pickering Village district as part of the Old Kingston Road reconstruction project. The contest was open to all Durham based artists.

Chosen by a committee comprised of local business owners and residents, the winning banner submitted by Baker followed the criteria set out to represent the past and present themes of Pickering Village. The banner includes historical elements such as the early Quaker settlers, First Nations people, the Old Kingston Road courtyard, Duffins Creek, Ajax’s multicultural residents and prominent buildings in the area such as St. Francis de Sales Church.

“It is a great honour to have my artwork recognized and my gratitude goes to the selection committee, Ajax Council, and Pickering Village itself,” said Baker. “My preparation included photographing interesting parts of the Village as reference, sourcing the history of the area to include it in the banner, and collecting recycled fabrics which would represent the diversity of modern times.”

As the winning artist, Baker will receive $500 and a presentation at the June 27 Council meeting at Town Hall. Honourable mentions were submitted by Eamon Stinson of Oshawa and Henry Kortekaas of Ajax.

The banner made of recycled fabrics and paints will be printed and put up on street light posts Old Kingston Road, Kingston Road and Church Street within Pickering Village at the end of July.

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The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

Saturday, June 25 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Durham East Cross Forest Conservation Area 4531 Boundary Road (Scugog/Clarington)

Activities will involve leveling the trail, moving or helping to cut fallen trees, brushing, and clearing rocks and other debris from the trail.

This volunteer opportunity is suitable for people 14 years of age and up; however, those under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. This is a great way for high school students to earn volunteer hours!

For more information and how to register, please visit http://www.kawarthaconservation.com.

Congratulations Maureen!

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Geordie Lishman: Hidden Worlds 9 July – 4 September, 2011 Opening Reception: Friday 8 July 5pm-9pm (part of RMG’s First Fridays event series)

In this mystical exhibition, Ajax, Ontario-based artist Geordie Lishman leads us on a mysterious journey where the goal is to help us see beyond our present state of being. Our connection to the environment and our presence in the universe are explored as major themes.

Lishman’s large-scale metal sculptures focus on presenting icons that explore the grand program of existence and it is through these symbols that he seeks to investigate the unknown factors of the universe. In this exhibition, Lishman’s first major solo show in a public gallery, the artist crafts fantastical creatures-a mechanical horse with the head of a sphinx, an owl and eagle with moving wings, a “universe machine” that illustrates levels of influence in planting strategies found in the farmer’s almanac. He provides glimpses of the mechanics of these machines, hidden worlds that bring us closer to the fabric of all being by showing us its subtlety and intricacy.

Born in Port Perry and a graduate of the Vancouver Film School, Lishman was influenced by his parents Paula, a fashion designer and his father, sculptor Bill Lishman. Geordie teaches in the Foundations in Art and Design program at Durham College. The artist is available by request for interview and comment.

The opening reception party for this exhibition is partnered with the RMG’s First Fridays event series. Join us on Friday July 8 at 5pm for formal remarks, followed by performances by indie rock band Boom Bust & Echo at 6pm and singer-songwriter Kate Boothman at 7pm. Cash bar and free to attend. Party continues to 9pm!

For more information:

THE ROBERT McLAUGHLIN GALLERY 72 Queen Street, Civic Centre, Oshawa, Ontario L1H 3Z3 905-576-3000 communications@rmg.on.ca www.rmg.on.ca Follow us on twitter: www.twitter.com/theRMG | Become a fan on Facebook: www.facebook.com/theRMG

Directions: From Toronto, 401 East to Oshawa, exit Simcoe Street, North to Bagot Street. Turn left at Bagot, 2 blocks to Gallery. Gallery Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m Saturday & Sunday: 12 noon – 4:00 p.m. Admission by donation Media Contact: Jacquie Severs – Marketing & Communications | jsevers@rmg.on.ca | 905-576-3000 x109

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

DURHAM — Culture Days is back for a second year.

It’s a country-wide celebration Sept. 30, Oct. 1 and 2 designed to raise awareness, participation and engagement in arts and culture.

Kerri King, Durham Region’s tourism manager, says 38 events took place across Durham last year as part of Culture Days, from open houses to art exhibitions.

“I think the biggest challenge last year was just getting the word out because it was the first year,” she says. “A lot of the groups last year actually took existing events that were planned and kind of morphed them into Culture Days.”

As well, she noted several participants made last-minute decisions to be a part of the celebration.

This year, she’s hoping even more groups and individuals take part. King notes that the only real guideline is that the event has to be free of charge. While national organizers hope the events offered are interactive and allow visitors, to a theatre, for example, a behind-the-scenes look at a production or a theatre company, it’s not set in stone.

King says a cooking demonstration or fashion show could be a part of Culture Days in Durham.

“It can be tied to arts and heritage and culture,” she says. “It’s a great way to pull the community together.”

King encourages those who are planning a Culture Days event to register it both at www.durhamtourism.ca.

She notes that 71 per cent of visitors to Durham are here to visit friends or relatives. So King encourages Durham residents to become informed so they can spread the word about what’s happening here for Culture Days.

“Our strategy in Durham, a lot of it has been to ensure that the people living in Durham Region know what’s going on so they’re our ambassadors,” she says.

For more information on Culture Days in Durham, call Durham Tourism at 1-800-413-0017 or e-mail tourism@durham.ca.

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

This Community Benefit Concert is scheduled for Friday, July 22.

Opening for Sarah that night is her dear friend and poet, special guest, Tanis Rideout.

Proceeds from this DINNER & SHOW event will go to PERL (Protecting Escarpment Rural Land) and Cannington’s own Healthy Harvest Program & Maple Tree Community Garden.

Tickets will be auctioned off June 6 to 12, so please read the following details if you want to be one of the lucky 22 guests in attendance!

Ticket Auction -We will be auctioning off the tickets by table size, which includes both dinner and the show. -We have tables for 2, 3, 4 and 6 persons. -All bids can be done with credit card; in person or by phone. Call Sarah at 704-432-8407 starting June 6th. -Minimum bid is $80/person. -Bidding CLOSES on June 12th at 4pm, so get your bids in fast!!!! -If you have been outbid, you will receive an email notifying you, so please check your email regularly!!

For more information, please visit www.cameronstreet.org.

Building the business of art The Globe and Mail June 4, By: Tim Alamenciak

Artscape president and CEO Tim Jones spends his days finding and creating spaces around the city for artists. His big idea for Toronto would be to give artists the tools – under one roof – to develop the business side of their work.

Founded in 1986, Artscape grew out of the Toronto Arts Council’s recognition that it needed to defend artists’ live-work space. Since then, the not-for- profit has been working against the forces of gentrification to maintain affordable studio space.

Mr. Jones explained that this cycle of gentrification has become known as the SoHo Effect. “It’s when artists move into a neighbourhood and they start to stage events and street performances. Before you know it they’ve enlivened neighbourhoods to the extent that property values rise and invariably, because they’re renters rather than owners, they get priced out of the places that they’ve helped to create.”

Artscape looks to halt, or at least slow down, this process. Part real- estate company, part artists collective, it has been buying up old properties and establishing affordable live-work spaces for artists with the support of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the City of Toronto, as well as contributors from the public and private sectors.

One of its latest projects, the Shaw Street Centre, slated to open in the spring of 2012, is positioned in the heart of West Queen West, close to the front line of Toronto’s westward wave of gentrification. The Shaw Street Centre will also be the new home of Sketch, an arts drop-in centre for youth.

Mr. Jones, who moved from London, Ont., to Toronto in the early 1980s, took the helm of Artscape in 1998. The company has been devoted to making space affordable for artists. He spoke to The Globe on the need to address the other side of the equation: helping artists get to a place financially where they can afford good spaces.

What’s your big idea?

Something we’re working on at Artscape is the development of a new centre for creative-sector entrepreneurship. A lot of the work that we’ve been doing over our first 25 years has been looking at the affordability side for the arts community, and how to keep their expenses at a level that is sustainable and allows them to generate income.

It’s really about trying to look at the challenges from a revenue side and figuring out how we can assist creative people and businesses in growing their revenue to be more sustainable. We did a study in the past year that looked at entrepreneurship training and provision in the Greater Toronto Area and found that while there are over 90 different organizations that are providing some measure of support, not counting postsecondary institutions, there are still huge gaps. A lot of young people are graduating from applied arts programs not finding jobs and wanting to start businesses, but not having the wherewithal to do that.

So we’ve been working on the development of an entrepreneurship centre, 100, 000 square feet to bring together a number of the organizations and entities that are currently providing some entrepreneurship support under one roof so that we can create a one-stop shopping window for artists to figure out how to get plugged into these services and programs across the city. It’s not unlike what MaRS has done in the biotech world, what we’re trying to do for the creative sector.

How would this benefit the city and the people in the city?

First of all, small business is the lifeblood of the economy. In the creative sector almost 90 per cent of businesses are 10 or fewer employees, and yet collectively the culture and creative sector in Toronto generates $9- billion in GDP and employs 130,000 people. So helping this sector thrive as entrepreneurs is something that is important to our city and our future.

In the arts community, for whatever reason, there’s some kind of trepidation about the influence of business on art and a level of discomfort around entrepreneurship generally, so we’ll be looking to the centre to break down those psychological barriers and find ways to help people grow their practice and their business so that they can thrive.

How do you see the relationship between business and art?

I think that they’re really intertwined in many different ways. I think that whether you’re an artist or a not-for-profit arts organization or whether you’re a small creative business, you have to interact with the marketplace to survive. It’s part of what we all do. So finding ways to do that more effectively is in everybody’s interest.

One of the reasons that employers like to exist or locate their businesses in places like Toronto is because they’re

culturally interesting, vibrant, dynamic places, and that creates an environment that supports innovation outside of the arts and cultural world – it supports it in the business world as well.

What’s the point of bringing everyone together in one building?

There will be an effort to have better co-ordination and collaboration between them and to have more meaningful programs. Our survey of what’s been on offer across the spectrum of organizations suggests that while some of them are doing excellent work, a lot of the focus is on quick fixes and weekend workshops, more focused on survival than business growth. Just bringing people together to focus on these issues – allowing them to share some resources and creating this one place where people can come to and find out how to plug in to this, what otherwise is a tangle of resources that are out there – we think will be really important.

Is there any gauge on how long this project might take?

It’s probably four years before we’re opening the doors in a place like this.

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Photographers of all ages can submit up to six colour photos of all seasons to any of the four contest categories including: People, Outdoors, Events and Architecture. The entry deadline is September 30th and a chosen winner from each category will be contacted following the end of the judgment period. There are great prizes to be won including Pickering Town Centre gift cards and Pickering Recreation Complex memberships.

Select photos will be featured on the City’s website, along with a ‘Photo of the Week’ pick throughout the competition. In addition, any submitted photos may be used in future promotional opportunities. “The Bicentennial is a celebration of our community, and this photo contest will capture and commemorate this milestone for future generations,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. “As such, we want to see Pickering through your eyes, so take a picture of any special moment, place or person and send it in!”

Participants can submit their photos by visiting the Photo Contest page at cityofpickering.com or by emailing the image (6 MB max.) accompanied by a brief description to photocontest@cityofpickering.com .

“The seeds for this Festival were planted several years ago and the care and nurturing it received has help it to blossom into one of our greatest summer events,” said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “I encourage everyone to come out to the Festival and walk through the beautiful Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens and Parkwood.”

This highly anticipated annual festival is a celebration of horticulture, arts and heritage. Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens is home to Canada’s largest contemporary peony collection with over 300 Peony varieties.

Stroll through the Gardens and view hundreds of peony plants in glorious bloom. Enjoy activities and displays, including Artists in the Park, garden related vendors, Chinese cultural exhibits and the Peony Café.

Don’t miss the Canadian Peony Society’s Ontario Region Show, a judged flower exhibit featuring over 100 cut blooms inside the adjacent arena.

Nearby at Parkwood National Historic Site, tour the 12-acre historic gardens. Enjoy expert gardening advice, heritage activities, horticultural and artistic displays. Savour lunch or tea in the Parkwood Garden Restaurant that overlooks the majestic Parkwood fountains.

Admission to the gardens is free. In addition, the event offers free parking and a complimentary shuttle between Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens and Parkwood.

For more information, or to volunteer, visit www.oshawa.ca and click on the Peony Festival icon featured “In The Spotlight”.

Whet your appetite for the 26th annual Uxbridge Studio Tour with this exciting summer preview. Heart, Mind and Hand gives a one-stop exhibition space to 34 Uxbridge-area artists as they kick-start another year’s tour. Enjoy the features of a material-rich show as the exhibition showcases a range of painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, mixed media, photography and fibre arts. This collective showcase of creativity comes to you from under Station Gallery’s historic and contemporary gallery roofs where heart, mind and hand intersect.

For over a quarter century, artists in the north-west corner of Durham Region have hosted a celebrated annual studio tour across their community. The Uxbridge Studio Tour has featured prominent artists such as Ron Baird, Carmel Brennan, Ann Cummings, Edward Falkenberg, Francis Muscat, Lynne McIlvride Evans, Judith and Viktor Tinkl, to name a few. Many share in Station Gallery’s forty year history and for them, this exhibition serves as a home-coming of sorts. The annual arts festival opens in Uxbridge on the third weekend of September unfastening the studio gates of over 26 sites (one for every year the Tour has existed so far).

The artists work is on display at Station Gallery starting June 4 and runs until July 17 – admission is free, donations to the gallery are appreciated.

To find out more about free public exhibitions at Station Gallery or upcoming summer music events, call 905-668-4185 or visit www.whitbystationgallery.com.

Share on Twitter: @stationgallery #HeartMindHand

Drop by Regional Headuarters at noon today for Smart Commute Durham’s Bike to Work day event.

For information, visit http://www.smartcommute.ca

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Interested in attending? The folks at Royal Ashburn are kicking off the Championship at 4pm on Monday….the public is welcome to attend!

Here’s the scoop from Golf Canada:

Canada’s top university and college golfers will convene at The Royal Ashburn Golf Club in Ashburn, Ont., from May 30-June 3 to compete in the ninth playing of the Canadian University/College Championship, conducted by Golf Canada.

In all, 155 male and female golfers from post-secondary institutions across Canada including Durham College will vie for both team and individual titles at this year’s event. The field will be comprised of 20 men’s and 10 women’s teams as well as six individual competitors.

The championship gets underway Monday, May 30th with a practice round and opening ceremonies at The Royal Ashburn Golf Club. Following Thursday’s third round, the field will be reduced to the top 10 men’s and the top five women’s teams, as well as any teams and individuals within 15 strokes of the lead.

“The 2011 Canadian University/College Championship boasts a highly competitive field of some of the finest collegiate and university golfers in the country,” said Golf Canada Tournament Director Cameron Crawford. “The list of players grows stronger each year and the course at The Royal Ashburn Golf Club will provide a challenge for participants.”

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Sarah Harmer plays Cannington this summer Brock Citizen May 24, By: Scott Howard

An iconic Canadian songstress will take the stage in Cannington later this summer to help fundraise for a pair of charities, including a local one.

Proceeds from Sarah Harmer’s show at the Cameron Street Co-op Cafe on July 22 will benefit environmental group PERL (Protecting Escarpment Rural Land), which she helped found, as well as Brock Township’s Healthy Harvest program and the Maple Tree Community Garden.

“She’s a friend of the Co-op and we’ve been trying to get her to do a show here for a while,” said Kelly Stacy of the Co-op.

“We’re almost in disbelief that she’s actually coming. Our members are absolutely thrilled. I’m sure I’ll have no problem finding staff to work that night — they’ll be volunteering.”

Ms Harmer has played shows to benefit PERL in the past and Co-op members had no problem identifying a local cause to support.

“Healthy Harvest and the community garden are two causes we’re very passionate about,” Ms Stacy said.

Billed on Ms Harmer’s web site as an “intimate show for great causes,” only 25 tickets are available and will be sold in an auction format. Bidding opens June 6 at 9 a.m. and runs until Sunday, June 12 at 4 p.m.

Bids will be taken in person or over the phone and must be secured by credit card. Tickets also include a dinner before the 8:30 p.m. show.

“The bidding process is going to be very organized,” Ms Stacy explained.

“As soon as someone is bumped off the list because of a higher bid, we’ll be calling them.”

Ms Harmer is unquestionably one of the most renowned and accomplished musicians on the Canadian music scene.

Her latest disc, Oh Little Fire, was nominated for three Juno Awards this year — – adult alternative album of the year, producer of the year (Ms Harmer and Gavin Brown) and recording engineer of the year (Lenny De Rose for songs ‘Captive’ and ‘Late Bloomer’).

Her previous release, I’m a Mountain, was nominated for the Polaris Prize as the top Canadian album in 2006.

For more information on the show, call the Cameron Street Co-op Cafe at 705-432-8407.

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Thought we would share this sponsorship opportunity with you…..

In celebration of Durham Region’s fall harvest, Durham Tourism has partnered with Ms. Sharon Wilcken of Accolades events to launch a brand new culinary event called Savour the Season from September 9 -18, 2011.

Durham’s best casual and fine dining restaurants will partner with local growers, producers, and artisanal purveyors bringing their patrons a very special three-course “localicious” prix fixe menu.

Please find attached Sponsorship Opportunities document for your consideration.

If you would like more information regarding this program, please contact Ms. Sharon Wilcken directly at 905-831-4984 (or e-mail Sharon at sharonw@accoladesevents.ca).

On behalf of Durham Region’s Economic Development and Tourism, our Region’s growers, farmers and producers we encourage you to join us for this exciting program if there is a fit for your business.

Warmest regards,

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Sponsorship 04.pdf

SOLSTICE SHANTI

Port Perry Flowyoga invites you to join us for a free, outdoor drumming and yoga session to celebrate the Summer Solstice.

When: Tuesday, June 21st

Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Where: Palmer Park, Port Perry

As we recognize the sun completing it’s cyclical journey around the earth, it is a time to reflect on our own lives through Drumming, Yoga and Meditation.

Summer solstice is the time of year in which the sun is closest to the earth and the high energy rays are most abundant. The efforts and intentions which we put forth on that day have a much greater energetic and etheric effect on our bodies, minds, lives and the world.

Join us as we celebrate and give thanks for this special time of year.

Admission is FREE – Space is Limited.

To register, please contact:

Maria Carr Port Perry Flowyoga 183 Casimir Street, Port Perry Tel: 905.441.7874 Email: flowyoga@bellnet.ca www.portperryflowyoga.com Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development and Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

“O’Regan contrasts his deep, sad, handsome voice with up tempo synth pop arrangements, resulting in tracks that could pass for dance remixes of the National or Leonard Cohen.”– Rolling Stone

“Onstage alone, he more than held his own, doing self-aware tunes in a lush vocal over a synthy backing track.”– New York Times

Diamond Rings has been busy busy busy this year! After coming off tours with Robyn and fellow Canadians PS I Love You he’s keeping the momentum up and not showing any signs of stopping now. In addition to signing on to even more touring (see below for dates), he has been busy mixing tracks for his Remix Rainbow project. The remixes will be released as a download each week leading up to the re-release of a digital version of Special Affections that will include new bonus material on June 21 with Secret City Records.

Over the next several weeks, Diamond Rings will be dropping danced-out tracks with his signature remix treatment, each representing a colour of the rainbow detailed in the eye makeup Diamond Rings has become known for both on and off stage. For the first of the six-part series, John O’ has made some rainbow magic to Montreal-based Miracle Fortress’ track Raw Spectacle. Check out www.diamondringsmusic.com for the latest download.

The release of Special Affections last fall garnered widespread critical praise for Diamond Rings. He received huge support and glowing reviews from the likes of Pitchfork, Spin, NME and the Village Voice, and has also been at the forefront of the radar in Canada, landing top spots on many best of 2010 lists. The success of his debut album earned him extensive spots on national tours with Robyn and PS I Love You – both of which have kept him on the road constantly since the end of last year.

With no signs of slowing down Diamond Rings is well on his way to having another stellar year!

Upcoming tour stops in Toronto: June 3 – Toronto, ON – Echo Beach @ Molson Amphitheatre (w/Robyn) June 17 – Toronto, ON – NXNE – Yonge/Dundas Square (w/ Stars and Land of Talk) June 18 – Toronto, ON – NXNE – Wrongbar @ 12 a.m.

Showcasing work from local talented emerging artist and music from Lesley Joosten.

MAY 27-28-29 JUNE 2-3-4

Location: Baird Sculpture 6479 Concession#2 Uxbridge , ONT

For tickets, visit www.dianalopezsoto.com.

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Culture Days is a cross-Canada celebration aiming to raise awareness, participation and engagement in arts and culture. It is the largest-ever collective public participation campaign undertaken by the arts and cultural community in Canada.

“We are encouraging all artists and venues to participate in this grassroots event to celebrate Durham Region’s culture and heritage,” explained Kerri King, Manager of Tourism for Durham Region. “Last year, more than 38 activities happened here in Durham Region as part of Culture Days. This year, we hope that even more artists and venues get in on the celebration!”

Culture Days events are free, hands-on, interactive activities that invite the public to participate “behind the scenes” and discover the world of artists, creators, historians, architects, curators and designers at work in their communities. Events in Durham Region last year included studio tours and open houses, art exhibitions, heritage tours, concerts, performances, dance workshops, art lessons, a fashion show and more!

Durham Tourism is requesting that all interested participants register Culture Days events online as soon as possible, to have their event listed on the Durham Tourism and Culture Days websites. Event organizers should register their event on both www.durhamtourism.ca and www.culturedays.ca to be a part of both local and national marketing campaigns, where events will be promoted in the media and online. For more information, call Durham Tourism at 1-800-413-0017 or email tourism@durham.ca.

Lisa M. Hausz, MBA Manager, Business Development and Marketing Town of Ajax P: 905-619-2529 x3252 | F: 905-686-0360 E: lisa.hausz@townofajax.com | W: www.townofajax.com

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

You’ll have that opportunity as the Town of Whitby’s 4th annual “Doors Open Whitby” kicks off at 13 community locations including Brooklin Community Centre, Maple Shade Farm, Ontario Shores, Trafalgar Castle, Station Gallery and many more.

All locations are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 7.

“Many dedicated volunteers are assisting the property owners who have so generously opened their doors to Whitby residents and visitors, so that they too may enjoy the hidden treasures of Whitby’s rich and diverse heritage,” says Doors Open Organizing Committee co-chair Margaret Clayton.

The first Doors Open Day took place in France in 1984. The idea soon spread to neighbouring countries, including the Netherlands, Sweden, the Republic of Ireland, Belgium and Scotland.

In 2000, the City of Toronto launched the first Doors Open event in North America and in 2002, the Ontario Heritage Trust the first province-wide event of its kind in Canada.

Since the program was launched in 2002, nearly 4 million visits have been made to heritage sites participating in this exciting initiative. Doors Open Ontario, now considered a cultural phenomenon, will continue in 2011 with hundreds of communities participating across the province.

You can download a Whitby site location program at the Doors Open link on www.Whitby.ca or pick one up at any one of the participating locations.

For more information, please contact:

For further information, please contact the Town of Whitby at (905) 430-4306 or e-mail doorsopen@whitby.ca.

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Come on the tour, meet the artists, and see their incredible work! This Studio Tour is being held on May 14th and 15th to capture some of Durham’s finest artists and the incredible spring colours that await you in the Region. The artists have been working hard over the winter months to create new and exciting art work. Come watch demonstrations and interact with local, regional and international artists. We now have 21 artists and are continuing to grow and showcase these great artists in the region.

The Durham West Studio Tour is located in picturesque Claremont, Brougham, Greenwood, Pickering, Ajax and various other locales throughout Durham West. You will see a wide range of artwork including sculptures, paintings, photography, pottery and mixed media.

DURHAM WEST STUDIO TOUR will take place on May 14th and 15th, from 10:00am -5:00 pm. Pick up a tour brochure with map included at any of the artists’ studios listed on our website www.dwac.ca .

This is a free event suitable for the whole family. Please call event organizer, Andrew Hamilton at 647-351-2170 or the Durham West Arts Centre at 647-297-4278 for more information.

Born in Liverpool, England, during the depression, Phil now lives in Port Perry.

Phil studied art in Ontario and has worked in several media, but finds that acrylics provide more opportunities to catch his feelings. Phil’s representational landscapes are inspired by Canada’s abundant, beautiful countryside. Intrigued by what he sees and feels, Phil tries to catch his experiences in his work and invites others to understand, or see something else in the painting. Phil has exhibited and received awards in numerous juried art shows and belongs to several art organizations. His work can be found in private collections in England and Canada.

An opening reception will be held for Phil Wooding on May 7, 2011, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Scugog Arts Resource Centre, 181 Perry Street, Unit G-1, Port Perry. For more information go to www.scugogarts.ca or call 905-985-2121.

Each piece is painted and/or collaged on clean, reused Styrofoam food trays, collected through diligently annoying all possible suppliers. The materials speak to issues of commoditization and an Arte Povera sensibility, and in this context the series is a continuation of earlier work using silt cloth panels retrieved from demolition sites.

Rodgers’ installation will be located in THE VAULT at BOLA, 20 Simcoe St. N., Oshawa during the month of May.

Join Rodgers for the opening at Bola on Sunday, May 1, 1 to 3 p.m. with musical guest Natalie Garcia.

For more information, visit www.margaretrodgers.ca

Media Release Money etc..doc

The Town of Ajax is calling on all Durham based artists to submit their design for street banners for Pickering Village. The winning banner will be mounted on select light standards and hydro poles in the business area of Pickering Village, in Ajax.

The deadline for submissions to the Pickering Village Street Banner Contest is Tuesday, May 31, 2011. Designers, professional or amateur, may submit as many designs as they can imagine and create. Designs may include original paintings, sketches, photographs, graphic designs, etc.

To be considered a Durham based artist, you must either live or work in the Region of Durham, or have ties to the arts community within the Region of Durham.

Background

The primary purpose of the Pickering Village Banner Design Contest, in addition to the creation of a new line of Banners and Posters for Pickering Village, is to promote the Village as a business, arts, cultural and tourist destination.

The winning entrant will be awarded an honorarium of $500, and their art will be displayed across the Pickering Village business area.

How to enter: All submissions must be made in digital format and will only be accepted via the Pickering Village Street Banner Contest Submission Form. ( http://www.townofajax.com/Page6002.aspx )

All contest participants submitting designs will be required to agree to the contest’s Terms and Conditions for Submitted Designs ( http://www.townofajax.com/Page6001.aspx#terms ). Submissions will be screened by the Street Banner Committee and then the best entries will be juried by a panel of at least three judges, appointed by the committee. The committee reserves the right to reject any submission without showing cause. The jury will conduct blind sessions and will not know the identity of the individual entrants. Decisions on acceptance are final. The successful applicants will be notified by June 17, 2011. Banner Design Guidelines

All submitted designs must contain the words Pickering Village in Ajax. The design should be oriented to fit a banner that is 24 inches (0.6 m) wide x 58.75 inches (1.5 m) high. It will be printed on vinyl giving it a longer life for outdoor use. When deciding on a theme keep in mind the following: The unique history of the Village and heritage buildings The arts and cultural aspects of the Village Businesses in the Village (shops, restaurants, professionals) Abundance of mature trees and proximity to natural features such as Duffins Creek

Competition Criteria

The following is a list of criteria to be followed when composing your banner design. The design must: be distinctive and captivating as a composition take into consideration the surrounding context, including the unique character and history of Pickering Village consider the cross-seasonal visual impact of the banner (i.e., focus on vivid colours while minimizing washed-out colours and white) keep all imagery simple and of a scale to be easily viewed and appreciated from a distance by moving vehicles ensure all type used is large enough to be readily recognizable at a distance by motorists and pedestrians

Design Technical Specifications

Submissions must be in digital format. The banner will be is 24 inches (0.6 m) wide x 58.75 inches (1.5 m) high in size, so the original design must be created based on these proportions. For submission to the contest, files must be submitted in either JPEG or PDF format and should be reduced in size to a file size no greater than 8 megabytes. All submissions must be made via the Pickering Village Street Banner Contest Submission Form.

The winner will be required to submit this original size or 50% size for printing purposes, either on disk of by file upload (possibly in a high-quality, low compression EPS, JPEG or PDF format).

Questions?

If you have any questions regarding the contest, please contact:

Carol Coleman, P.Eng. Manager of Engineering, Capital Projects carol.coleman@townofajax.com 905-619-2529 Ext. 3202

The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). This information may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are not authorized to and must not disclose, copy, distribute, or retain this message or any part of it. This e-mail was scanned for viruses and content.

The free festival is July 1 from noon to 6 p.m. at Millennium Square. Organizers are accepting submissions from muscians who would like to perform at the event. Email your mp3 submission to info@musicbythebayfestival.com by May 1.

For more information, visit www.musicbythebayfestival.com.

An open house will be held on Saturday, April. 16, from 1 to 4 p.m at the VAC’s Loft Gallery, located at 143 Simpson Ave. in Bowmanville. http://www.vac.ca

For more information about Laura Hair, please visit: http://art.lmh.googlepages.com

Get involved with the Songwriters Association of Canada

The Songwriter’s Association of Canada (S.A.C) Regional Writers Group Program is designed to provide members who live in all areas of the country with a series of specific songwriting lessons and a network of fellow writers, lyricists and composers. The program is also designed to keep members informed about issues and changes in the music industry, while establishing unity among songwriters everywhere.

Singers and songwriters of all age groups, and musical preferences are welcome to attend our weekly Songwriter’s Groups to help develop their musical craft, with instruction from musical genius, Ron Beer.

Whitby Songwriter’s Music Group is held every Friday, from 6:30- 8pm at the Brock Street Activity Centre at 900 Brock St S (corner of Brock St and Burns St) and is FREE OF CHARGE! Come to meet local musicians, improve your songwriting talent and develop your musicianship!

This week’s Songwriter’s Group will be hosting a special guest speaker. Steve Didunyk Steve is a songwriter, pianist and accordion player from Toronto who writes witty and powerful pop songs. He has produced, played and collaborated with some of Canada’s finest artists in writing and recording sessions and high profile shows. By day, Steve works at Canada’s performing rights society – SOCAN, which collects performance royalties on behalf of Canadian songwriters and music publishers. He is an active member of the Songwriters Association of Canada, and a regular at regional songwriting conferences and events. His plans for 2011 include recording more of his original songs and expanding his presence both online and on stage. Steve will be leading the discussion on “crafty lyrics” at this week’s Songwriter’s Group, and any singers, songwriters, or musicians looking to gain some knowledge of lyrical craft, should come out to the Brock Street Activity Centre, this Friday, the 8th, from 6:30-7:30pm.

For more information about Durham’s Songwriter’s Groups, or about attending this week’s Songwriter’s Group, please contact Adam at adanthony16@gmail.com, or join our Facebook Group (Songwriter’s Group – Whitby).

Artists in the Garden is a tour of beautiful gardens in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax with art displayed by local Artists available for purchase.

Musicians throughout the Gardens will enhance the enjoyment. A lunch will be available for purchase.

Last year’s annual Artists in the Garden tour raised over $11,000.00 for Hearth Place. Hundreds of guests ventured out under overcast skies to enjoy touring the stunning gardens while viewing the craftsmanship of numerous artists and enjoying the variety of music from each of the musicians.

For more information, contact:

Donna Arnold Artist Co-ordinator Artists In the Garden Supporting Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre 905-723-4206

Friday April 1, 2011, the RMG is hosting their third event in the FIRST FRIDAY series! It is FREE to attend; the event features a live performance by Hamilton Trading Company and Mandi Byrd and The Beautiful Boys. The evening will also celebrate the closing party for the Friends of the Second March Photo Exhibit at Arthur’s on the 4th.

About Hamilton Trading Company:

Under the direction of Keith Hamilton, Hamilton Trading Company are rock and roll choir that uses clapping, stomping, vocals and a guitar to create the chorus and rhythm section of original music. The collective, usually consisting of 15 members, sing and harmonize in unison to traditional folk songs. Their sound has been described as “hard-working” and “simply voices in unison with one acoustic guitar.”

About Mandi Byrd and The Beautiful Boys:

Mandi Byrd embraced the music scene from a very young age. Along with playing the guitar she has been classically trained in the piano and double base. Now based out of Oshawa, she and her band, The Beautiful Boys, perform their own solo material.

Join us for a Friday Night Art Party for a good cause!

Enjoy art, music, culture and support a good cause; the RMG has partnered with War Child Canada and donations for the event will support their ongoing efforts in working with children all over the world to reduce poverty, to provide education, and to defend their rights.

FIRST FRIDAYS are free to attend. Fundraising is by donation. Doors at 7pm. Cash bar. Performances begin at 7:30. Arthur’s on the 4th is open for dinner 5pm-10pm.

More information about FIRST FRIDAYS is available on: http://www.rmg.on.ca/events-03.asp

The Ontario Philharmonic

By: Lisa Goulet

On Friday, the Ontario Philharmonic Orchestra, gracefully conducted by Marco Parisotto, gave a remarkable musical performance, Let’s Tango, to a full house at the historical Regent Theatre in Oshawa on March 25. The two-hour symphony featured music of Astor Piazzolla, The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires and Piotr Tchaikovsky’s, Serenade- an exuberant masterpiece played with spontaneous fervour.

Soloists, Leslie Newman on flute, and violinist Stephanie Chase, were simply charming and their talent enchanted the audience note by note. Newman and Chase’s addition to the musical performance blew me away, pulled on my heartstrings, and left me with untameable goosebumps.

Prior to the main event, guests were invited to a V.I.P. reception to celebrate the launch of the Art of Transition Culture Fund, created by the Durham Community Foundation, in an effort to create a lasting source of support for arts and culture charities in Durham Region. Elegant fine wines were up for the tasting, flushing the cheeks of guests who got to enjoy their subtle hints and sweet aromas! The luscious reds and succulent whites were provided by local wineries, including: Archibald’s, Ocala, Chadsey’s Cairns, Casa-Dea and Keint-He.

The mixture of nature and abstracts on display lent themselves to the minglers and musicians who gazed admiringly at the beautiful artworks of local renowned artists, Karin Isenburg, Anne Johnson, Robert Thackeray, Hi-Sook Barker, and Shirley Heard.

This event certainly had something remarkable for each of our five senses!

If you would like to visit one of Durham’s fine wineries feel free to check out Durham Tourism’s website for more details, or for information on future concerts, you can visit The Ontario Philharmonic online!

Direct Line: 905.668.4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905.666.6228 Toll Free: 800.413.0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

“I’m pleased to see the upgrades underway for this important community project, which has created jobs and will enhance the experience of tourists,” said MP Carrie. “Our government is investing in Canada’s artistic and cultural heritage, creating jobs in our communities, and supporting the workers and businesses of southern Ontario.”

The Government of Canada is contributing $1.1 million to the project through the Community Adjustment Fund. The renovation project includes repairs to the roof, installation of a new energy efficient Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning system, and the replacement of the fire suppression system. The project will improve the overall energy efficiency of the building and has resulted in 27 construction jobs.

“On May 20, 2010, the federal government announced over one million dollars of funding through the Community Adjustment Fund to the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa’s vibrant, strong and progressive community,” said John Henry, Mayor of the City of Oshawa. “Gathered in one of Oshawa’s finest jewels, we witness the progress of these improvements and champion investments in the preservation of fine art in our community.”

PORT PERRY — Creative people can expand their knowledge of the business side of art in Port Perry.

The Scugog Council for the Arts is offering a professional seminar for artists on March 23. Visual artists, writers, performers, musicians and arts boosters are invited to the seminar, which focuses on the organization of the business side of any artistic occupation. The seminar will also explain and straighten out confusion surrounding the HST.

Please click here to read the full article: http://newsdurhamregion.com/entertainment/article/172881

Writer Will McGuirk, Artist Steven Frank, Transition's Editor and Durham Tourism's Melissa Bies, and Durham Tourism's Lisa Goulet

This past Friday was the launch of Art of Transition’s fanzine, Transitions Vol. 5, in collaboration with the First Fridays event. The event showcases local music and art at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery. This entire evening was an embodiment of creativity and inspiration in every respect, the food from Arthurs on 4th, the musical performance by Forest City Lovers, and the art exhibit, You May Find Yourself, by artist Peter Smith.

My evening began with dinner. I ordered a “Caesar-Caesar?” and the glazed salmon entrée. The Caesar-Caesar? is the perfect manifestation of a Caesar drink made into a salad complete with celery salt and pickled veggies. I couldn’t help but think of warm summer days on the patio as I indulged in my first bite, the most critical of all bites. The new chef’s menu is original and playful, and continues to encapsulate an elegance that I am sure would silence Durham Region’s harshest food critic.

As the night progressed Forest City Lovers took the stage and mesmerized the audience with their creative melodies. I was hooked to their sound immediately. As a musician and songwriter myself, I could really appreciate the unique vocals, well thought-out lyrics, and deeply felt composition in each song they performed.

I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibit. It was new, inventive and moving. Smith’s artwork is a collaboration of sculpture, oil painting, and assemblage layers, mixed with an assortment of wooden and found items, which represent an expression of his devastated mind, lending viewers a frenzied sence of restlessness. Each piece is charismatic and metaphorical, symbolizing Smith’s “desire to share his reactions to life and impressions of consumerism, industrialism and the rat race,” according to the description on the Robert McLaughlin Gallery’s website, “the work is inevitably tied to his struggle with Schizoaffective Disorder.”

The night as a whole, was nothing short of magnificent. I cannot wait until next month’s First Fridays event on April 1st! For more information on the upcoming First Fridays visit the Robert McLaughlin Gallery’s website.

Learn about the art scene in Durham and listen to seasoned artists talk about their work, ask questions and view original art, jewelry, pottery, sculptures, books, CDs and art cards.

Participants in the free program receive a copy of the PineRidge Arts Council’s ArtScene publication and complimentary coffee and tea will be offered.

SilverStone Gallery is at 617 Liverpool Rd., near the bottom of Liverpool Road.

To book your visit, contact Gary Faulkner, the gallery director, at gadalor@sympatico.ca.

Visit the website at www.silverstonegallery.org.

From Left: Artist Jane Eccles, Durham Tourism's Lisa Goulet and Station Gallery's Marketing Coordinator Jessica Vreugdenhil

By: Lisa Goulet

About a month ago I had the privilege of interviewing local artist, Jane Eccles, for the Art of Transitions zine, Transitions Vol. 5. While talking to Jane I learnt a significant amount about her work, passion for the arts, and history in Durham Region.

During our interview I asked Jane about her motivation for her upcoming exhibition, Overlap, which features 45 vintage dress paintings that she has been creating over the last five years.

“I wanted to create beautiful paintings, evidence of the lives of beautiful women who fought continually to live gracious successful lives,” Jane said.

On Saturday, Feb. 26, I went to the grand opening of Overlap at the Station Gallery to view the paintings I had now heard so much about. As I walked through the event, and looked at the accompanying vintage dresses that Jane had painted, her words ran through my head, “In this piece of cloth, I know this once existed,” and to me, they brought to life the paintings and corresponding stories in a very real way.

Although I was only able to stay for a couple hours, I was lucky to have a personal guide, Station Gallery’s Marketing Coordinator, Jessica Vreugdenhil, to show me around, share her experience with the exhibition and enlighten me with an interesting history lesson on the gallery itself. I also got to speak with Jane for a moment, and get a picture with her and my favourite painting, Annemarie’s dress. I definitely recommend you check out this beautifully crafted exhibit!

If you are interested in more information about Jane or the exhibition, I invite you to order the Art of Transition’s Transitions zine, Volume 5 and take a look at our In Transition Profile featuring Jane. You could also stop by the Robert McLaughlin Gallery’s First Fridays event on March 5 where the Art of Transition will be launching Transitions Vol. 5, to pick up a copy and find out what First Fridays are all about!

Admission is free and local indie band, Forest City Lovers, will be playing.

Hope to see you there!

For more info, see below poster or visit http://www.rmg.on.ca

During the events, IRIS is collecting:
● An object of any kind, invested with personal or symbolic meaning. The objects contribute towards an installation, which becomes part of a larger display.
● ON-site photographic documentation
● Hand or foot prints of (willing) women
● Writings by women, onsite in the IRIS writing tent, in hard copy, or by subsequent email, in response to a series of questions.

While International Women’s Day is actually March 8, IRIS is celebrating all month in an exhibition of artwork by members in the Whitby Central Library exhibition space. Paintings, wall pieces and photography, along with archival information on the IRIS Group will be displayed from March 1, 3 pm to March 31, 11 a.m. In addition, a sample of the objects that have been collected and recorded from women over nine previous International Women’s Day events will be on view.

Based in Durham Region, IRIS was formed in 1996 as a forum whose aim is to raise levels of access for women in the arts, to share ideas and offer mutual support. As IRIS, members have presented events and exhibitions together in Oshawa, Cobourg, Mexico, Saranac Lake NY, Minden, Toronto, Peterborough and Edmonton.

www.theirisgroup.ca

The six-week television campaign, showcasing more than 80 Ontario companies and world-renowned cultural exports, features a soundtrack by indie band Metric, which won the 2010 Juno Award for Best Alternative Album. The campaign was created by Toronto ad agency Brandworks International Inc. and will be supported by print and online ads in a variety of Canadian, U.S. and U.K. publications, along with an interactive website.

Ontario’s entire creative cluster includes: book and magazine publishing, film and television, interactive digital media, music, performing arts, radio, advertising, architecture and design. Together, they contribute more than $ 12.2 billion to the provincial GDP and employ more than 300,000 people.

“Ontario is now a global hub for cultural content creation and distribution, and our creative industries are growing faster than the rest of the economy. That’s why we’re ramping up marketing to investors and consumers alike – and telling them that ‘We’ve got it going ON’ in Ontario.” -Karen Thorne-Stone, President &CEO, Ontario Media Development Corporation

“Ontario’s music scene is rocking, and our artists are taking centre stage when it comes to worldwide recognition. This province is a leader in both musical talent and accomplishment.” – Jeffrey Remedios, co-founder of Toronto indie record label Arts &Crafts, whose Juno Award-winning roster includes the acclaimed alternative band Broken Social Scene.

“Ontario is on the cutting edge of both TV and interactive digital production. It supports and nurtures creative talent-and clearly understands the economic value of doing so.” – Mark Bishop, co-founder of Gemini Award-winning TV and new media producer marblemedia, whose projects include Spatalot, Skatoony, Taste Buds and This is Daniel Cook.

“Ontario has really got things rolling for filmmakers to shine. Our movie business is thriving and producing work that is capturing international attention and wide critical acclaim – we are doing work at the top of our game.” – Jennifer Jonas, President at New Real Films, an independent film company producer of I’m Yours starring Rossif Sutherland &Karine Vanasse (in post production) and Trigger, named TIFF Top Ten and Best Film Toronto and Vancouver Critics Associations, and up for 4 Genie Awards.

QUICK FACTS

Ontario’s creative industries form the third-largest cluster in North America after California and New York

Ontario’s cultural sector contributes $12.2 billion to the GDP and employs more than 300,000 people

Ontario’s cultural industry is now bigger than the energy sector, and bigger than the forest and mining industries combined.

BE PART OF IT

For investors and creators, businesses and consumers, the Ontario Media Development Corporation’s investment funds and programs help bring a wealth of opportunity to Ontario. Be part of it and visit OMDC.on.ca to learn more.

BACKGROUNDER

Ontario Media Development Corporation

Ontario’s Cultural Media Sector – Facts

Film &TV

Ontario’s 2010 film &TV production activity contributed $964.3 million to the economy and created more than 23,000 full-time direct and spin-off jobs

In 2010, foreign feature film productions jumped to 20 from nine the year before

Fillms recently shot in Ontario include: Barney’s Version that earned a Golden Globe Best Actor Award for Paul Giamatti; and Atom Egoyan’s Chloe, with Julianne Moore and Liam Neeson. Other notable productions have included: Resident Evil: Afterlife; The Hulk; The Whistleblower; Force of Nature: The David Suzuki Movie; RED(nominate d for a Golden Globe Award)

On the TV front, a number of series, both domestic and foreign, are returning for 2011, including: CTV’s Flashpoint;NBC/Universal TV’s Warehouse 13; Shaftesbury Films’/CTV’s The Listener; a re-make of Nikitafrom Warner Bros Television; E1 Entertainment’s Rookie Blue. Other productions: Skatoony; Degrassi; Murdoch Mysteries; and The Tudors

OMDC supports the Film and TV industries through a variety of programs, funds and events, including the Film Fund; the Ontario Film Commission; the Entertainment and Creative Cluster Partnerships Fund; domestic markets and events and the Export Fund

Interactive Digital Media

As of 2008, there were approximately 1,000 interactive digital media companies in Ontario, employing 16,000 people and generating almost $1.2 billion in revenue

Interactive digital media include content such as: mobile apps, video games, computer software, interactive CD-ROMs and websites

Ontario’s Interactive Digital Media sector is growing at a rate of 10% annually

Hubs of Ontario’s Digital Sector can be found in Toronto, Sudbury and Waterloo

OMDC supports the Interactive Digital Media industry though a number of programs and services including: the Interactive Digital Media Fund; the Entertainment and Creative Cluster Partnerships Fund; the Export Fund, and by providing support to trade organizations, domestic markets and industry events

Magazines

Ontario is Canada’s largest publishing centre, with almost half (48%) of all Canadian magazines published in Ontario

In Ontario, the magazine industry created an average of 9,389 direct and indirect jobs annually between 1997 and 2005

OMDC supports the magazine industry through programs and services including: the OMDC Magazine Fund; the Entertainment and Creative Cluster Partnerships Fund; and support to industry trade organizations, as well as magazine-related domestic partnerships and events

Key magazines include: The Walrus; Cottage Life; Outpost; Azure; Spacing; Toronto Life; Allergic Living

Books

Ontario book publishers reported revenues of $1.36 billion in 2007

The OMDC presents the annual Trillium Book Award/Prix Trillium for literary excellence. Past recipients have included Margaret Atwood and Michael Ondaatje. Event publicity has generated over 65 million media impressions – helping promote Ontario authors

Noteworthy book titles have included: The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje);The Robber Bride (Margaret Atwood); No Great Mischief (Alistair MacLeod);The Withdrawal Method (Pasha Malla); Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage (Alice Munro)

Music

Ontario’s sound recording and music publishing industry is the largest in Canada, with the highest revenues across the board, from record production to music publishing to sound recording studios

Ontario has produced a huge number of critically acclaimed artists, including Broken Social Scene; Justin Bieber; Bedouin Soundclash; Rush; Blue Rodeo; Metric; Drake; Billy Talent; Edward MayaMia Martinez; and Danny Fernandes

Ontario is a music hub for North America with Canadian Music Week (CMW) March 9-13, 2011 and NXNE (June 13-19, 2011). This year, OMDC is proud to be a sponsor of the 40th Anniversary of the JUNO Awards with a week of events held in Toronto from March 21-27, 2011 (junoawards.ca»)

OMDC provides support to the music industry through a variety of programs and services, including: OMDC Music Fund and Export Fund; the Entertainment and Creative Cluster Partnerships Fund, and support for trade organizations and festivals

About The OMDC

The OMDC is an agency of the Ontario Government. Our mission is to promote, enhance and leverage investment, jobs and original content creation for Ontario’s cultural media industries. OMDC is Ontario’s primary investor in the cultural media sector.

Last year, OMDC administered $267.7 million in tax credits

By Jacquie Severs/Art Columnist

The term “creative class,” coined by economic intellectual Richard Florida, refers to workers who inhabit fields that require them to be creative thinkers. This isn’t limited to the creative types that might spring to mind right away; artists, writers and musicians. It also includes creative thinkers who you might not consider at first; scientists, computer programmers, small business operators, teachers and so on.

Our local economy has historically been based in manufacturing. As a result, our community is familiar with the struggles come with the downturn in manufacturing jobs. While the change is certainly not going to happen overnight, in order to survive and thrive in the future, growing our economic diversity will be a key to our prosperity. In turn a prosperous local economy benefits all members of a community.

A forum has been created by the Region of Durham in support of this economic process of change, called The Art of Transition. The Art of Transition offers an invitation to all members of the community to connect, share and innovate. The hope is that in doing so new partnerships and opportunities will arise, new jobs will be created, a vibrant arts scene can continue to foster and creative class workers will seek homes here in the Region. The result can be new economic drivers that in turn improve our quality of life, revive our historic buildings and encourage new investments by industries of all types.

A quarterly publication called Transitions which highlights local entrepreneurs, creative thinkers and events supports the efforts of this evolutionary concept. The newest issue will celebrate its launch on Friday, March 4 at The Robert McLaughlin Gallery (RMG) during their First Fridays event.

The March First Fridays event features live music by Forest City Lovers, who were founded in 2006 by Whitby-born Kat Burns. The band were recently nominated for an Independent Music Award and are making this stop in Oshawa en-route to Austin, Texas where they will be performing at the well-known South by Southwest music festival.

This is a unique evening, presenting a live band performing alongside the launch of a locally-produced magazine, in the setting of an art gallery. A place to kick-start your weekend immersed in culture, First Fridays is free to attend for all members of the community.

The partnership is well-timed as The Art of Transition is set to launch their Culture Fund later in the month of March. The fund is a permanent endowment for charitable initiatives that help culture thrive in our community. The fund launches at the Regent Theatre March 25 paired with a performance by the Ontario Philharmonic.

Richard Florida highlights that purpose and meaning can be found in the new creative economy. In his estimation purpose and meaning are created by three things; meaningful work, social relationships and community. The artists, entrepreneurs, partnerships and events that create the content of Transitions magazine are comprised of these three components. The feeling that places exist in our community that we love, that we feel free and creatively inspired in, are keys to creating a livable, lovable city. That is what the RMG seeks to capture in this event series.

Creative thinkers of all stripes are encouraged to attend, connect, celebrate and enjoy.

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

The work of Ingrid Zschogner, an award winning pastel nature artist and portrait illustrator, will be featured in “Spirit of Place” at the Scugog Arts Resource Centre (SARC) Gallery from March 5 to 27th.

Local artist, Ingrid Zschogner was born in Toronto and has lived across Canada from Baffin Island, Nunavit to Peace River Alberta. She has been a portraitist for the past 15 years and has carried on her German family tradition of wood carving for over 10 years. Ingrid began her professional career as an artist at age 14 and received her first corporate commission while attending high school in Calgary, Alberta. This same commission was part of the portfolio for which she received an Alberta College of Art and Design scholarship.

Ingrid’s love for wildlife and the natural world is shown through her dedicated passion as a conservationist and artist and she conveys her subjects through her realism techniques with oil, pastel, graphite and her woodcarvings. “All people, pets and animals are filled with vitality, emotion. Each unique personality bears its own distinctive mark. I strive to capture that fleeting moment of honest expression and gesture revealed by the subject.”. Ingrid accepts commissions year round for pet, cottage and children portraits and her collections were featured at the McMichael Art Gallery in Kleinburg Ontario Canada in 2009.

Meet Ingrid and view Spirit of Place at the opening artist’s reception on Saturday, March 5 from 1 – 4 pm. The exhibition continues until March 27. The SARC Gallery is operated by the Scugog Council for the Arts and the gallery is open to the public Monday to Friday, 11am to 4 pm and Saturday, noon to 4 pm. The SARC Gallery is located at 181 Perry St., Unit G-1, Port Perry. For more information on Spirit of Place, other SARC exhibitions or the Scugog Council for the Arts, visit www.scugogarts.ca, info@scugogarts.ca or contact 905 982-2121.

Kerri King Tourism Manager The Regional Municipality of Durham Economic Development & Tourism 605 Rossland Road East Level 5 PO Box 623 Whitby ON L1N 6A3

Direct Line: 905-668-4113 ext. 2606 Fax: 905-666-6228 Toll Free: 800-413-0017

www.durhamtourism.ca www.durham.ca

Entrepreneurs have the chance to enter the DRAGONS’ DEN in a bid to score some high-powered financial backing for their business ventures.

Open auditions are taking place in Oshawa on Thursday, Feb. 24th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, 44 Richmond St. W., Suite 100.

DRAGONS’ DEN gives aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their businesses to a panel of wealthy Canadian business moguls – the Dragons. Successful pitchers will have a chance to earn real investment.

No experience is necessary to audition. Interested entrepreneurs should be prepared to pitch their business in under five minutes. If they can convince the DRAGONS’ DEN production team they are ready for the limelight, they could be invited to face the Dragons when the upcoming season is filmed in Toronto. Interested entrepreneurs are asked to apply online and bring a completed application form to the audition.

For more details, including a full list of cities and dates, visit cbc.ca/dragonsden.

Durham Region was the winner in the Industry Communiqué category for the Durham Tourism e-newsletter. This e-newsletter is compiled monthly by staff within both the Economic Development and Tourism Department and the Corporate Communications Office. An environmentally friendly way of communicating with more than 20,000 residents, visitors and industries within Durham Region, the e-newsletter is inclusive of Durham Region’s eight local area municipalities. Content varies based on season, holidays and major events.

“These awards highlight the creativity and hard work that staff has demonstrated in promoting the countless tourism opportunities within Durham Region,” said Regional Councillor Don Mitchell, Chair of the Finance & Administration Committee. “Congratulations to all staff who were involved in each of these outstanding initiatives.”

Honourable mentions in the Business Development–Marketing Utilizing Technology, and Social Media categories were given to www.artoftransition.ca. The website is a collaboration tool for the community, created as a way to continue the momentum from the Art of Transition symposium of November 2009. The website is also the online home of Transitions magazine–a quarterly publication that promotes the creative community in Durham Region–making the publication interactive, by allowing for commenting and social media sharing.

In the Tourism-Publications-Specialty Brochure/Map/Guide category, the Durham Region Trails Guide was also given an honourable mention. This guide is an initiative of The Durham Lives! Trails Committee, consisting of several Durham Region departments, including Economic Development and Tourism, Health and Planning, through the assistance of the Durham Trails Coordinating Committee. The guide features maps of more than 350 kilometres of recreational trails winding through Durham Region, listing trails by municipality and giving a description of their length, surface type, access points, washroom stops and wheelchair accessibility. The trails guide is free and can be ordered online at www.durhamtourism.ca.

“Our honours this year were the result of the teamwork displayed by Durham Region staff, municipal partners, industry stakeholders and suppliers, and others within the community,” said Kerri King, Manager of Tourism. “Being recognized out of hundreds of entries demonstrates that our efforts are effective and make positive impacts to Durham Region’s tourism industry.”

EDCO is Canada’s largest provincial economic development association.  The organization’s goal is to provide a forum to enhance the professional development of its members; advance economic development as a profession; and promote, assist and foster economic development prosperity in Ontario. The Ontario Economic Development Awards took place on Feb. 3 at the Toronto Marriott Eaton Centre Hotel.

The display includes informative and entertaining heritage related material, as well as exhibits from several community partners, including Oshawa Community Museum, Oshawa Public Libraries (Saturday only) and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery. Philip Hulaj’s rare collection of locally produced art deco Smith Pottery will be on display (Friday only).

In addition, regional partner exhibits include Clarington Museums & Archives, Durham Region Branch – Ontario Genealogical Society, Scugog Shores Museums and Visual Arts Centre of Clarington.

Heritage Week in Ontario takes place each February and is led by the Ontario Heritage Trust. In 2011, Heritage Week will occur from February 21-27.

Heritage Oshawa is the City of Oshawa’s Municipal Heritage Committee. For more information, visit www.heritageoshawa.ca or www.oshawa.ca (click on “Agendas & Minutes” in Quick Links).

We had a great time ice fishing today at Floyd Hales Fish Huts with Bill’s awesome team of ice fishing professionals.

Haven’t tried ice fishing before?

Fish without a licence on Family Day Week-end: Feb 19,20,21.

Visit www.floydhalesfishhuts.com for info on fish hut rentals or call 1.800.363.4704

For more information on things to do in Durham Region and overnight accomodations, visit www.durhamtourism.ca.

Forget flowers or chocolate this Valentine’s Day. Instead, treat yourself or that special someone with registration to Greenbelts: Local Solutions for Global Chalenges. Don’t miss this chance to attend the first ever Global Greenbelts Conference from March 22^nd to March 24^th, 2011 at the Radisson Admiral Hotel. This Conference brings together policymakers, practitioners, and advocates from around the world, while mixing panel discussions and site visits to Ontario’s Greenbelt to highlight the potential of Greenbelts to help manage urban growth, sustain farming and the vibrancy of the surrounding countryside communities, and protect valuable ecosystems.

Within the Netherlands, the four large cities of Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, and The Hague surround a unique landscape, and mainly agricultural area, the Groene Hart or Green Heart. In the 17^th century, parts of the Green Heart were used as a line of defence, whereby a system of locks, dykes, and controlled flooding of the land stopped the enemy from advancing.  In 2003, the Green Heart was declared a National Landscape park.

Dutch speakers at the Conference include:

• Dr. Wim Heijmans, Chair of Regional Economics at Wageningen University, will discuss a stakeholder consultation that integrated willingness to pay as a measure of preference for different scenarios in an area in the Netherlands.
• Cheryl de Boer of the University of Twente will speak about enhancing the connection of remaining natural areas in Dutch rural areas to meet habitat and water quantity and quality goals. Ms. de Boer will discuss the Regee River Restoration project, including the important role played by independent regional water boards.
• Marcel Houtzager, Deputy Mayor of the Leidschendam-Voorburg Municipality, will discuss how the regional governance structure in The Hague peri-urban area is working to ensure protection of prime agricultural and environmentally significant land.

Other Conference highlights include: keynote speaker and world renowned author Margaret Atwood, world leading sketch-based comedy ensemble Second City, and Juno award winning and three time 2011 Juno nominee Sarah Harmer.

Spotlight:

Enjoy a memorable site visit to the Niagara Peninsula’s tender fruit and grape area, one of two specialty crop areas in Ontario. Learn about the history of the region and taste some premium Vinter’s Quality Assurance (VQA) wines matched with delectable locally grown foods. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about the eco-friendly practices of local wineries.

To learn more about this site visit – click http://globalgreenbeltsconference.ca/site-visits

To register now or to learn more visit: www.globalgreenbeltsconference.ca

As part of the one-year program’s Food Service Operation course, students will open Bistro Max to the public for a 10-week period during February, March and April where they will be responsible for preparing and serving three-course meals from a biweekly, rotating menu for $15 per person.

The Culinary Skills program was introduced in September 2010 to provide students with basic theoretical and practical culinary skills with an emphasis on locally grown and produced foods.

While students currently use Maxwell Heights S.S. for their practical lab work, they will eventually study in the new 30,000-square-foot building to be built for students studying in hospitality, tourism and food programs as part of the college’s Whitby campus expansion. The building will be able to accommodate an additional 950 students and house a full-service, green-certified restaurant that is open to the general public and a greenhouse so both students and community members can watch the foods of Durham Region come to life.

Members of the public who are interested in making a reservation at Bistro Max or would like more information can call 905.721.2000 ext. 2488 or e-mail bistro.max@durhamcollege.ca.

Maxwell Heights S.S. 1100 Coldstream Drive Oshawa, Ontario