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One of a Kind Shop: End of Thread Antique Emporium

“An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet. Come and connect at The End of the Thread…” and you won’t ever want to leave. Situated on the corner of Princess Street and Montreal Street in historical downtown Kingston, it was a mix and match of a financial and artistic background that brought owners Steve and Tracey to open up shop and begin a serendipitous adventure in the Limestone city.

With their original location in Brighton open for six years already, it was time for a change of scenery. End of the Thread Antique Emporium is not your traditional antique shop – it is a mix of vintage and new pieces but also unusual one-of-a-kind items. You best be thrilled with your purchase, as returns are not accepted.

From dress forms to factory cart coffee tables – you will always find something that will catch your eye.
From dress forms to factory cart coffee tables – you will always find something that will catch your eye.

This somewhat recent addition to the downtown core is a destination in itself. From repurposed industrial pieces, kitschy giftware, memorabilia and reproductions from all around the world – End of Thread Antique Emporium is a well-curated masterpiece. A museum of wonders so to speak that is home to a selection of eclectic goods, all of which can be purchased, of course.

The story of Steve and Tracey is quite simple – they came to visit a few friends and never went home, the love for the small town of Brighton made them stay and then their hearts reached out to Kingston. As they were photographing old buildings in the city for inspiration to renew their Brighton storefront – their newest location at 201 Princess Street caught their eye and attention in terms of curb appeal.

Shopping for a gift? Look no further as you can find the line Illume candles and Go Be Lovely beauty products.
Shopping for a gift? Look no further as you can find the line Illume candles and Go Be Lovely beauty products.

End of the Thread Antique Emporium is the perfect match for those willing to go on an adventure, or as antique shoppers say, ‘go on a hunt’ to find that hidden gem. Every nook and cranny in the store is filled with character and charm – the pieces on display all have a story behind them. Ask and you’ll find out!

Fifties Seeburg Jukebox anyone? This one is for you old school music lovers
Fifties Seeburg Jukebox anyone? This one is for you old school music lovers

Though not traditional, the store is carefully merchandised with customers in mind. Get ready to walk into a whole other world of big heavy repurposed industrial items. . From coffee tables incorporating 1920’s coffin rollers, medical cabinets, dining tables, side tables, you name it this shop has it – the possibilities are endless. Notable names like Chehoma, Zodax and Two’s Company are just some of the brands that can be found here.

Let your eyes ponder through this store and be surprised at every turn.
Let your eyes ponder through this store and be surprised at every turn.

If you’re not into the bigger items, End of the Thread also caters to the humorous types – baubles can be found throughout the store – Blue Q- edgy GUM, hand sanitizers, breath sprays, recycled bags, Fred products include Food Face plates for the kids- and other amusing kitchen and bar items for the young at heart. Perfect for souvenirs or a light-hearted gift.

Neon signs really do draw you in!
Neon signs really do draw you in! 

No matter how old you are or what you’re on the hunt for, you’ll leave End of the Thread Antique Emporium with a smile, as every visit is a unique experience.

For more information:

201 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7L 1B3
15 Main Street, Brighton, ON K0K 1H0
Facebook: End-of-the-Thread-Antique-Emporium

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5 Reasons to Check Out Canada-Russia Super Series

Is there a better rivalry in sport than the one between any Canadian and Russian hockey teams? Whether it’s the Under 18 Tournament, the Winter Olympics or any other international competition, when these two countries go head-to-head for puck supremacy, it means war—and really good hockey.
If you’ve never had the chance to see one of these epic battles up close and personal, this Monday night (November 17) is your chance. Russia’s National Junior Team will face prospects from Canada’s Junior Team at the Rogers K-Rock Centre for Game 4 of the Subway Super Series, a six-game exhibition that’s been happening across the country in November for over ten years.
Tickets ($25-$30) are still available via subwaysuperseries.ca, so if you’re on the fence, here are five reasons why you should consider going:

1. Super Series Tiebreak

Since 2010, both sides have won two Super Series. (photo by Matt Garles/Flickr)
Since 2010, both sides have won two Super Series. (photo by Matt Garles/Flickr)

The Russians and Canadians have split the last four Super Series, so there’s more on the line this year. No player on either side, each with their own hopes of impressing scouts, would shrug their shoulders at coming out on the losing end of a tiebreak. They all know that good players find a way to win, especially in these pressure-packed scenarios. All of which is to say, if you do check out the game in Kingston, chances are you’ll be treated to some fierce competition.

2. Connor McDavid

Take in the skill of Erie Otter phenom Connor McDavid before he becomes an NHL star. (photo by Bobskin 411/Wiki Commons)
Take in the skill of Erie Otter phenom Connor McDavid before he becomes an NHL star. (photo by Bobskin 411/Wiki Commons)

If you don’t know the name “Connor McDavid” yet, keep listening. He’ll soon be as familiar as Sidney Crosby. Since storming into the OHL with the Erie Otters in 2012 at age 15 and being named Rookie of the Year, McDavid went on to dominate the OHL (he already has 49 points in 17 games this year) and win Gold at the 2013 Under 18s while leading the tournament in points. See what all the fuss is about when he laces them up for the Canadian squad in Kingston.

3. Other Future NHL Stars

Which of the Russian Juniors playing in the Super Series will join the ranks of Russian NHL stars? (photo by Chase N/Flickr)
Which of the Russian Juniors playing in the Super Series will join the ranks of Russian NHL stars? (photo by Chase N/Flickr)

McDavid isn’t the only one from these teams who’ll light it up in the pro ranks one day. A few you’ll see in Kingston on Monday: Canada’s Max Domi, a high-scoring centre drafted 12th overall and the son of former NHL bruiser Tie Domi; Russia’s Alexander Dergachyov, an eighteen-year-old forward named a “player to watch” by NHL Central Scouting; and Canada’s Chris Bigras, a smart d-man who’ll be on the Colorado Avalanche’s blue line very soon.

4. World Junior Championship Preview

See if players from the Canadian side have what it takes to add another World Junior Championship to the rafters later this month. (photo by Dave O/Flickr)
See if players from the Canadian side have what it takes to add another World Junior Championship to the rafters later this month. (photo by Dave O/Flickr)

Attending the Super Series game in K-town is also a great way to get a sneak peak of both teams before the upcoming World Junior Championship. The annual December tournament is always a big deal, but since it’s in hockey-mad Montreal and Toronto this year and Canada hasn’t medalled in two years, the stakes will be even higher. Head to the game on Monday to prepare yourself for what should be one of the most intense World Juniors in recent memory.

5. A Good Arena for Hockey

There aren’t many arenas that will get you as close to the action as the Rogers K-Rock Centre. (photo by P199/Wiki Commons)
There aren’t many arenas that will get you as close to the action as the Rogers K-Rock Centre. (photo by P199/Wiki Commons)

High-calibre hockey deserves a high-calibre arena to play it in, and Kingston has that in the 5,400-capacity Rogers K-Rock Centre. Now just six year old, the modern limestone rink is known as one of the best in the province to watch a hockey game. Granted, it can feel a bit grey inside, but the angle of the seating is perfect, there’s ample leg room and the lighting is crisp but not overbearing. And, because it’s tucked right downtown, it’s easy to get to great food and drinks after the game.
Head to subwaysuperseries.ca for tickets, rosters and more.

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5 Can’t Miss November Shows in Kingston

November is shaping up to be a pretty exciting month theatre-wise, with several notable productions making their way to Kingston: classic theatre is back with Happy Dane’s production of a Shakespeare favourite, two Canadian country heavyweights will sing their way into your hearts, a beloved Canadian classic graces the stage in musical form, there’s an adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac that you won’t make you turn your nose up, and a notorious Canadian comedian makes his way to Kingston to make you laugh. Check out some highlights you can’t miss this November!

Hamlet

Select Nights November 6 – 15
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Shakespeare’s classic tale of betrayal, love, family, honour and revenge in eleventh century Denmark is returning to Kingston courtesy of Happy Dane Productions, a new local theatre company whose mandate is to bring fine classical theatre to the Kingston community.
Directed by local Kingston actor/director Matthew Davis, this familiar story will be rejuvenated through Davis’ unique vision and talented cast of local actors via an up-to-date format proving that the play’s longstanding themes and story are still just as relevant today as they were hundreds of years ago.
All performances will take place at The Baby Grand Theatre in the heart of downtown Kingston.
Get Tickets

High Valley

November 18 at 7:30pm
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Brothers Brad and Curtis Rempel of High Valley are tearing up the country music scene. Originally from a small farming town in Alberta, they have opened shows for Nashville country heavyweights like Keith Urban, Reba McEntire and Brad Paisley, while earning street cred as a live act that can’t be missed.
Their first album, Broken Borders, took home the award for Country Album of the Year at the 2007 GMA Canada Covenant Awards, spawning hits like ‘Back to You’ which earned them another trophy, this time for Country Song of the Year. Four years later, the band went on to win five more GMA Canada Covenant Awards, most notably Artist of the Year and Group of the Year for their 2010 self-titled album.
Incredible songs coupled with powerful performances are what makes High Valley one of the most impressive Canadian acts in country music. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience their contemporary country for yourself.
Get Tickets

Anne of Green Gables: The Musical

Select Nights November 20 – 30
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You likely know the story: Set on Prince Edward Island at the turn of the century, Matthew Cuthbert and his sister Marilla decide to take on an orphan to help them on their farm but are sent a precocious young girl in error: Anne (with an e).  Anne is a big dreamer with a unique point of view and far removed from everyone’s hardheaded ways. Marilla agrees to keep Anne if she can stay out of trouble, but where trouble can be found… so can Anne.
This Musical invites you along on a series of charming adventures, as our heroine navigates her way through a series of scrapes while making new friends and connecting with several kindred spirits- all the while Matthew and Marilla realize that life at Green Gables is much better with Anne in tow.
Performance at the L’Octave Theatre, 711 Dalton Ave
Get Tickets

Cyrano

Select Nights November 26 – 29 
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Adapted from the classic 1897 French play Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand, the play is based on the real-life 17th century poet and swordsman of the same name.
The story: Cyrano, a gifted man possessing great talent and virtue, loves the beautiful Roxanne. He has virtually everything going for him, save for one very large perceived physical flaw: his giant nose. Because of this, he can’t confess his love for her, fearing that she could never look beyond his looks to love him for who he is. 
Cyrano then befriends Christian (whom Roxanne is in love with) who also suffers from feelings of inadequacy. While traditionally gorgeous, Christian isn’t exactly an intellectual. Unable to articulate his thoughts and feelings to Roxanne, he enlists Cyrano to write love letters to her from him. Cyrano agrees, and that’s when the story begins.
The Baby Grand Theatre is located upstairs in The Grand Theatre building.
Get Tickets

Shaun Majumder

November 27 at 7:30pm
shaun
The hilarious Shaun Majumder has been making the rounds for years. You’ve likely seen the award-winning actor/comedian on TV in Unhitched, 24, Cedric the Entertainer or This Hour has 22 Minutes (and let’s not forget his many appearances on YTV classics like Uh Oh!). Shaun has also garnered notoriety from Montreal’s Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, having been a host of the TV series for several seasons.
In January 2013, Shaun’s documentary series, Majumder Manor, debuted on the W Network in Canada. Majumder Manor has just entered its second season, chronicling Shaun’s dream to transform his hometown of Burlington, Newfoundland (population 350), into a high-end, sustainable tourist destination.
Get Tickets

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50 Things to Do in Kingston: November Edition (2014)

Yeah, you read that right. Sure, the summer festivals have drawn to a close and the weather isn’t necessarily conducive to fun-filled outdoor activities – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a veritable abundance of Kingston activities and events to take advantage of in November.
1. Go see Hamlet at The Grand Theatre
2. Visit the MacLachlan Woodworking Museum
3. Visit the Pump House Steam Museum

4. Experience A Brimful of Asha at The Grand Theatre
4. Experience A Brimful of Asha at The Grand Theatre

5. Check out the Queen’s Drama Department’s performance of Orbit at The Isabel
6. Take a Movember Tour of City Hall
7. Visit the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes
8. Take in some great food and music at Tuesday Night Jazz at Olivea Restaurant
9. Check out ArtDocs: Watermark at the Agnes Etherington Art Centre
10. Watch the Kingston Frontenac’s take on the North Bay Battalion on November 7
11. Mini-putting at Family Fun World
12. Watch II (Two) at the Octave Theatre on November 7
13. Find your center at Samatva Yoga
14. Check out the Lynn Miles Exhibit at The Rankin Gallery
15. Learn about hockey’s origins at the International Hockey Hall of Fame
16. Check out the Nighttime Santa Claus Parade on November 22
17. Grab your lucky troll doll and play a game of bingo at Treasure Chest Bingo

18. Go shopping on Princess Street
18. Go shopping on Princess Street
19. Buy some artisan olive oil in all kinds of flavour combinations at Kingston Olive Oil Company
19. Buy some artisan olive oil in all kinds of flavour combinations at Kingston Olive Oil Company

20. Visit St. Paul’s United Church for a Country Craft & Bake Sale
21. Admire the architecture of the Cathedral of Saint Mary

22. Scale Canada's highest indoor climb at The Boiler Room
22. Scale Canada’s highest indoor climb at The Boiler Room

23. Check out a Creatures of the Night hike at Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area
24. Check out The Bobby Show at The Grand Theatre on November 8
25. Sip some hot chocolate in City Park
26. Discover something new at the Museum of Health Care
27. Go see The Amazing Interplanetary Adventures of Flash Gordon at The Brew Pub
28. Check out Brad Paisley at the K-Rock Centre on November 15
29. Go see ‘Horns’ at The Screening Room

30. Go-karting at Family Fun World
30. Go-karting at Family Fun World

31. Book a group tour of Canada’s Penitentiary Museum
32. Buy some one-of-a-kind art at Kingston Glass Studio and Gallery
33. See Fabulous Fossils at Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area on November 16
34. Take in an Orchestra Kingston Concert on November 16

35. Bundle up and walk along the Kingston Waterfront
35. Bundle up and walk along the Kingston Waterfront

36. Catch up on your reading at the Kingston Frontenac Public Library
37. See Petits Dour and Pearls of the French Baroque at St. George’s Cathedral Hall
38. Check out Taste! at the Confederation Place Hotel on November 21
39. Go see some live music at The Toucan Pub
40. Visit The Grand Theatre for John Williams at the Movies on November 22
41. Experience Philosopher’s Café: Confronting the New Realities inside Canada’s Prisons at the Agnes Etherington Art Gallery
42. Check out Cyrano at The Grand Theatre
43. Go antiquing at Antique Alley
44. Check out Sam Roberts at the K-Rock Centre on October 29
45. See what’s happening at the Heather Haynes Gallery
46. Explore the spookier side of Kingston with a Haunted Pub Walk

47. Try something new and delicious at AquaTerra
47. Try something new and delicious at AquaTerra

48. Go for a nature hike at Lemoine Point Conservation Area
49. Explore the home of Canada’s first Prime Minister at Bellevue House National Historic Site
50. Go see ‘Love is Strange’ at The Screening Room

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The Culture of Brock Street

Recently, no places have screamed culture like Musiikki Cafe and Whiskey Bar, which just opened this summer. A teeny place squeezed between Cunningham & Poupore and Atomica, it seats only twenty-five people; so small, it is almost necessary to search for it as you walk by.

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Lower Brock Street is not what it used to be. Even five years ago it was more of a side alley than a main street of the downtown core, something like an extension of Princess. Now a culture is developing on Brock that is heightening the flavour of downtown.

A few doors over from Musiikki, Kingston Olive Oil Company is becoming increasingly popular for its imported high quality olive oil. A number of curious people stop in daily, perhaps drawn by the extensive range of free sampling. I like to think, however, as I see people dash away with armfuls of bottles, that Kingstonians are enthused about quality. Local restaurants, like Olivea, are certainly buying in on the high-end flavours.

Kingston has a strong arts culture and a close-knit arts community, a fact which surprised me after I returned from living in our culturally dense book-end metropolitans. Toronto and Montreal have distinctive street fashion, music scenes, and festival line-ups. The only thing that I had thought defined Kingston was its history, namely the years surrounding 1867.

Art After Dark, FebFest, Buskers Rendezvous, BluesFest, Writer’sFest—I believed these festivals were tourist draws to keep the city thriving. This is true, but I have also been noticing the same crowd attending these cultural events—not tourists—but what I call the Kingston cultural substream. These enthusiasts find their daily fare in the art galleries, restaurants, and theatre venues of downtown.

As stores close on Princess, new ones open on Brock, and Kingston Olive Oil Company and City and Cargo (a store focused on high quality bags with functional design) do not in any way suggest a lack of affluence in the neighbourhood. Even Musiikki sells a $34/ounce whiskey.

Kingstonians are still looking for quality and taste, but I think most of all, Kingstonians want to support businesses that are connected to their community.

It looks like Musiikki is pressing all the right buttons. The idea of a cafe and whiskey bar seemed to owner Kris Clendining and co-founder Alex Rhintress like the perfect mix. It certainly works great for date night, but also, the lower price of the cafe and the higher prices of the craft beer and whiskey bring in a range of clientele.

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Ryan Maybee explains their motto, “It’s quality first.” This is not a snobby place, but neither is it Bohemian. It’s a relaxed, cultured venue that makes you feel like you are on vacation in Europe or South America. It thrives on connectedness—weekly open mic, local art (even sketches) pasted on the walls, a selection of whiskey chosen by the customers themselves, local bands and local musicians—even a recording studio in the works.

With “Simplicity at its best,” this is the Kingston I get excited about.

(Special thanks to Kingston artist Brittany Moore for supplying the photos for this article.)

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The Bobby Show: Smooth, Suave & Sophisticated

What do Bobby Darin, Bobby Vee, and Bobby Vinton have in common?
Besides their (obvious) shared first names and uncanny crooning abilities, their legacies are being remembered through The Bobby Show, a smooth, suave and sophisticated performance that brilliantly brings your favourite 1950’s and 1960’s singers together on stage for a night of excitement and nostalgia.
Described as one of the best musical tributes to an era in recent memory, the show compiles your favourite hits and stories about the legendary ‘Bobbys’ – Darin, Vee, Helms, Curtola, Goldsboro, Vinton, Rydell and more. Unforgettable songs like Blue Velvet, Sway, My Special Angel, Beyond the Sea, Mack the Knife, Rockin’ Robin and Volare will have you singing along and dancing in the aisles.

“Mike Myers’ ‘The Bobby Show’ rocked the house! He had the sold out audience singing and clapping and wanting to dance in the aisles. One of the best musical tributes to an era that I’ve ever seen.”  — Christine Bode, scullylovepromo.com

Written by Kingston songwriter and performer Michael K. Myers (who sings lead vocals and plays guitar for most of the show) and joined by his seasoned band The Real Gone Cats: Tim Hallman (music director, keyboards), Gary Barratt (drums, percussion), and Bob Arlidge (electric bass, stand-up bass), The Bobby Show’s appeal transcends not only genres, but generations.
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Myers (whose musical inspirations include Lennon & McCartney, Rodgers and Hart and Burt Bacharach) is just as slick and smooth as the characters the show invokes, and after more than 40 years of playing virtually every genre of music (including but not limited to rock ‘n ‘roll, country & western, jazz and pop) is receiving due credit for his brilliantly conceived and executed The Bobby Show. Truly, Myers is a skilled guitarist with a clear and powerful tenor voice that rivals the best in the business.
The Bobby Show will make its way to The Grand Theatre on Saturday, November 8th with a 7:30 curtain time. Discover what many others have already experienced: an incredibly energetic performance that encapsulates the spirit of 50’s and 60’s.
When: Saturday, November 8th at 7:30 pm
Where: Performing in the Regina Rosen Auditorium
How much: Tickets are $32.75 plus HST and handling fee.
More info: Contact The Grand Theatre Box Office at 613.530.2050

Fun Facts:

  1. Bobby Darin starred in Come September in 1961 with Rock Hudson and Sandra Dee.
  2. Bobby Vee was actually born Robert Thomas Velline in 1943.
  3. Bobby Vinton’s nickname was ‘The Polish Prince.’
  4. Bobby Helms’ Jingle Bell Rock, released in 1957, is a classic still played today.
  5. In both the movie and the musical Grease, the high school was named Rydell High after Bobby Rydell.
  6. Bobby Goldboro’s biggest hit, Honey, about the death of a man’s young wife was recorded in a single take.
  7. In 1966, Bobby Curtola won an RPM Gold Leaf Award for becoming the first Canadian to have an album go gold.

In partnership with Bottle Tree Productions and Swiss Chalet, we’re giving you the chance to win four tickets to the November 8th performance of The Bobby Show and four meals at Swiss Chalet! To enter, play with us on Facebook and you could be treating three friends to a fun night out on the town in Kingston!

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Few Frightful Nights Remaining at Fort Fright!

**NOTE** Fort Fright is not running in 2022

More scare actors on site, more props, and a full engagement of all five of your senses are guaranteed to have you looking over your shoulder!
For just $5 you can purchase a glow-in-the-dark ‘Protection Amulet’ necklace that is guaranteed to keep you safe and the scary creatures at bay! The Protection Amulet is ideal for youngsters or adults who want the experience but would prefer to keep the scare actors at a safe distance.

This guy had a lot to say….but don’t get too close!
This guy had a lot to say….but don’t get too close!

Plan an overnight stay right on site at Fort Henry’s Fort Fright! Check-in at 5:00 p.m. to the authentic 19th century military surroundings of the Barracks Room. Accommodations are available on weeknights from October 23 to November 1. The overnight cost is $50 per person with a minimum nightly charge of $200. Space is limited so book early! For more information or to reserve your overnight stay call the Customer Service team at 800-437-2233. In keeping with the time period, the rooms do not have modern hotel amenities and guests must bring their own sleeping bags, pillows, towels and toiletries
The Farm Girl Mobile Food Truck is on site just outside the main entrance. Farm Girl showcases local produce in delicious gourmet offerings nightly until November 1. Don’t miss the Shop of Horrors retail area at the end of your tour.

TICKETS:

**NOTE** Fort Fright is not running in 2022

Tickets to Fort Fright are general admission, $15 per person, for military (with ID) $12. Maximize your visit to Fort Fright with an Unlimited Night Pass. For just $5 extra, you can have access to Fort Fright all evening long on the night of purchase. A great way to experience the event with a group of friends! 
Double your entertainment value this fall and take in two of Eastern Ontario’s best events – Fort Fright and Pumpkinferno at Upper Canada Village (Morrisburg, Ontario). Combo pricing is general admission $23 plus tax.
Fort Fright is Eastern Ontario’s largest scare attraction and is described by many as Ontario’s Best Haunted experience. The event is sponsored by Via Rail Canada, The Great Waterway, Kingston Accommodation Partners, Ambassador Hotel & Conference Centre Kingston, Tourism Kingston and Celebrate Ontario.

QUICK FACTS

  • In 2014, Fort Fright received a $75,000 grant from Celebrate Ontario to invest in the festival.
  • The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, an agency of the Government of Ontario, operates facilities in 16 municipalities stretching from Kingston to the Quebec border, including Upper Canada Village, Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Crysler Park Marina, Upper Canada Golf Course, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary and 12 campgrounds and day-use areas including the Long Sault and 1000 Islands Parkways.
  • Located at the junction of Highways 2 and 15 (Exit 623 off Highway 401 then south on Highway 15), Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada is managed by The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, an agency of the Government of Ontario.

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission operates facilities in 16 municipalities stretching from Kingston to the Quebec border, including Upper Canada Village, Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada – now designated as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Crysler Park Marina, Upper Canada Golf Course, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary and 12 campgrounds and day-use areas including the Long Sault and 1000 Islands Parkways.

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Cycling the Kick ‘n Push Trail

Ever had one of those moments where you pass an entrance that beckons to an unexplored but enticing dimension? For me, this summer, that was the Kick ‘n Push Trail.

Officially known as the Kingston and Pembroke Trail, the Kick ‘n Push—its local nickname—is a groomed, recreational trail that runs along an abandoned Canadian Pacific Railway railway bed, now owned by the City of Kingston and the County of Frontenac.

Starting in Kingston, the trail runs north for nearly forty kilometres, through farmland and wooded areas to Verona, intersecting with the Rideau Trail and the Cataraqui Trail.


My plan one overcast morning was to cycle the twenty-two kilometres to Harrowsmith. I’d then travel four kilometres into Sydenham for a quick lunch before returning to Kingston.

To prepare for the trip, I followed an old adage: take a light bike and a heavy wallet. In these cases, there’s no substitute for a solid pocket and a bike basket.

Road traffic near the entrance at the Binnington Court Trailhead (located at the end of Dalton Avenue, off Sir John A Macdonald Boulevard) is not bike friendly, so take precautions.

The trail is crushed gravel. It’s a heavenly, flat terrain that discourages speed while encouraging multi-use. On either side are vigorous trees and native wildflowers, abundant small creatures, insects and birds. The only aspect of the trail that gives pause is the detours around the access point fences, but they really are wide enough for your bike.

Under the trail’s canopy cover, you’re protected from the elements and the environment is peaceful. It’s a thoroughly different ride from the city experience: not hot, not windy, uncomplicated.

In thirty minutes, you can ride through several access points—Sydenham Road at the 401, McIvor Road, Jackson Mills Road at Burbrook Road, Unity Road, and finally, Orser Road. The path runs through wetlands, farmland and forested escarpment. Reassuringly, there are runners, dog walkers, other cyclists, even a woman with a baby carriage, suggesting that the distance between access points is not intimidating. Foot traffic within the city limits makes the trail feel both safe and beloved.



At Jackson Mills Road, I had to stop to consider direction. Stepping forward slightly, I found clear signage at the intersection of Jackson Mills and Burbrook Road. Assume that others have your best interests at heart!

As I travelled north, I rode meditatively. A flying grasshopper kept enchanting pace with me.

North of Merton Road, the trail is less manicured but absolutely travel-worthy. The rock-cuts are spectacular and it’s got that durable Canadian Shield vibe going.

Once I relaxed in knowing that I wasn’t going to get lost or dehydrated, eaten by bears or waylaid by robbers, I began to hail other cyclists. They love this trail and genuinely want others to join them.

Just south of Harrowsmith, the trail again ends abruptly. To your right is the intersection of the K&P trail with the Cataraqui Trail.

When I entered the trailhead, I expected to stop in Sydenham: I’ve proven that plan to be absolutely feasible. However, the trail had other plans for me: it enticed me with its beauty, its good signage and even terrain, its visitors—friendly companions of all species—who accompanied me. I continued through Harrowsmith, cycling forty kilometres to Verona. Eventually, this multi-use trail will connect users from Kingston to Sharbot Lake.

Franklin D. Roosevelt once advised, “The only thing to fear is fear itself.”

Go get your bike tuned up and without further consideration, head into that beckoning trail. The Kick ‘n Push is a marvellous adventure.

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Out of Office & In Kingston!

Visiting Kingston for business?
Well, why not mix a bit of pleasure in there – don’t let a business trip overwhelm you.
Between planning for presentations and meetings, following baggage guidelines and packing your luggage, getting ready for a business trip can seem like a project of its own. Keep your workload to a minimum and maximize the time you have by using the following tips to help you enjoy your stay in Kingston to the fullest! The city is filled with history, culture, wonderful attractions and a beautiful Kingston waterfront for you to relish in.

Travel in comfort onboard a VIA Rail trail.
Travel in comfort onboard a VIA Rail trail.

Getting Here

The options are endless – train, car or plane. VIA Rail provides business and leisure travellers with convenient rail service to and from Kingston from major cities such as Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. Sit in comfort and maximize your productivity – enjoy the benefit of priority boarding, meal, free Wi-Fi and a scenic route. Time crunch? Convenient flights are available daily between Kingston and Toronto.

Business in downtown Kingston? Historic Inns are a great choice for a night stay.
Business in downtown Kingston? Historic Inns are a great choice for a night stay.

Stay In

Located conveniently in downtown Kingston, choose from one of many historic inns that will cater to your every need.  Give yourself or your clients a true taste of Limestone City’s charm.

 

The Frontenac Club Inn, on the corner of King and William Street is one of the city’s many historically designated limestone buildings and is just a few minutes from Market Square. It boasts all of the modern amenities needed on a business trip – high-speed wifi, air conditioning, voicemail and a gorgeous meeting space – not to mention Aveda bath products.

 

If you want to experience history and elegance, The Secret Garden Inn offers a charming ambience and is centrally located in the historic Sydenham Ward, just blocks away from Queen’s University, great shopping and restaurants, and the beautiful Lake Ontario waterfront.

 

If you have access to a vehicle, The Greenwoods Inn is one of Kingston’s best-kept secrets within city limits. With modern conveniences, it possesses a great meeting space perfect for small groups, complimentary Wi-Fi and parking.

 

Looking for a more typical stay? Don’t look any further – Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston’s Waters Edge, Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Suites Kingston and Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel are all wonderful options.

A cup of coffee from Kingston Coffee House.
Enjoy a warm cup of coffee from Kingston Coffee House.

Eat Up

The culinary scene in Kingston is quite spectacular and will not disappoint – dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants with skilled and talented chefs or perhaps a food truck if you or clients are adventurous!

 

Early morning riser? Your taste buds will surely be impressed with an early wake me up caffeinated beverage at Kingston Coffee House or a freshly baked muffin from Pan Chancho Bakery & Café on Princess Street – both within walking distance of most hotels and historic inns in downtown Kingston.

 

If your job involves entertaining clients, an enjoyable dinner can help build long-lasting relationships within business. Located in Kingston’s downtown Market Square, Casa Domenico provides a fresh perspective on Italian style cuisine while Olivea is a family-run traditional Italian trattoria next door – both feature dinner specials and extensive wine lists as well as private dining rooms. Just right up the street, Le Chien Noir’s courtyard is the ideal place for a glass of wine after a long day. Let’s not forget AquaTerra, which provides a magnificent waterfront dining experience overlooking Lake Ontario and located within the Delta Hotel.

Le Chien Noir Bistro is a proud supporter of local foods and an exceptional dining establishment for business lunches or dinners.
Le Chien Noir Bistro is a proud supporter of local foods and an exceptional dining establishment for business lunches or dinners.

Business over drinks is a great way to socialize as well as network and Kingston is filled with go-to pubs for casual drinks like Red House on King Street, Sir John’s Public House, The Iron Duke on Wellington and the Kingston Brewing Company. Remember moderation!

 

Bon Appétit & Happy Conversation!

 

Step Up

Even if you have limited free time, your business trip doesn’t have to be all work and no play. Eat healthy by enjoying locally produced foods at the Kingston Public Market, every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday in Springer Market Square. Hit the fitness centre in your hotel, take a quick jog along the waterfront to clear your mind or head to Ahoy Rentals for a paddle on Lake Ontario (weather permitting, of course).

Have a few minutes to spare within your busy work filled day? Head to the Kingston’s Public Market for a local taste of our city!
Have a few minutes to spare within your busy work filled day? Head to the Kingston’s Public Market for a local taste of our city!

Create memories! Don’t let every business trip look like every other one!

 

If you have time, check out a Sunset Ceremony at Fort Henry, a show at The Grande Theatre, or even roll it into a weekend. Even if you have only an hour to spare, hop on a Kingston Trolley or rent a car – stop by the Visitor’s Centre on Ontario Street for a knowledgeable guide to show you the local highlights and events.

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Competing in the Kingston Dragonboat Race: Paddles Up Take it Away!

Stepping on to the Dragonboat I began to think twice about volunteering to be the drummer for the race.
The boat was rocking precariously as the rest of the 20-woman team loaded the boat. The drummer (that would be me!) gets to sit highest in the boat and, therefore, the second most likely to be ejected from the boat upon an unexpected jolt. The only person in more danger was our confident coach and steersman – or steerswoman I should say – Dana. As we pulled away from the dock the situation didn’t improve. The wind and waves from Lake Ontario made their way into the Inner Harbour and started hitting the boat from all sides. The rest of the women (including my own mother!) on the team ranged from 40 to 70 years old and did not seem fazed by the waves. This was their fifth race of the season having already done competitions all over Ontario.

A windy day in Kingston meant being the drummer was a little frightening!
A windy day in Kingston meant being the drummer was a little frightening!

Their paddle out to the start line, though not even part of the race, was no walk in the park.
Dana was already giving commands to the women who were dutifully acquiescing. As we approached the start line, the women seemed to all hold their breath; even though this was their fifth race they still got the communal jitters. As the air horn blew for the start of the race Dana immediately began screaming commands like a zealous football coach. The encouragement obviously worked, because the women started digging into the water like they were paddling for their lives!
As we approached the finish line the women started to look winded but they kept hitting the water as long as Dana was yelling commands. The 2 minutes flew by and as we flew over the finish line the women tried to catch their breath. Unfortunately the other two teams – consisting of men and women of all ages from the Kingston community – had beaten them. Though they lost this race the true test would come later when they would race against the other all-women survivor team in the Survivor Series Challenge.

Me and Jeanette after our race - Jeanette had the tough job!
Me and Jeanette after our race – Jeanette had the tough job!

Leaving the dock, I felt so proud of these women.
Every one of them is a breast cancer survivor who has chosen to participate in competitive Dragonboating so that they may enjoy the physical challenge and find camaraderie with other breast cancer survivors. After the race was over the women stretched and caught their breath while the adrenaline wore off. The Kingston survivor team – Chestmates – provided the Peterborough team – Survivors Abreast – with a handmade lunch of sandwiches, muffins and hot coffee. I was informed this was a dragonboating tradition; the home team always provides lunch for the away Survivor teams. The camaraderie between the teams is obviously just as important as the friendships within the teams.

Kingston's Chestmates Dragonboating team getting ready for their race.
Kingston’s Chestmates Dragonboating team getting ready for their race.

The other teams at the festival that day were from Kingston and Ottawa. The festival serves as a fundraiser for local cancer research. The paddlers all raise money for cancer research and then get to compete in the race against other recreational community teams as well as competitive all-female survivor teams from around Ontario. Community teams aren’t required to have any knowledge of Dragonboating as they receive two practices prior to the race. Community teams ranged from Queens to the Kingston Police Department who won the festival with the fastest time! Survivors Abreast – my mom’s team from Peterborough – won the Survivor Challenge in an extremely tight race between the two Survivor teams.

Survivor's Abreast Dragonboating team in their race against Kingston Chestmates.
Survivor’s Abreast Dragonboating team in their race against Kingston Chestmates.

Both Survivors Abreast and Kingston Chestmates will be competing in the International Breast Cancer Survivor Dragonboat Festival in Sarasota Florida at the end of October held only once every four years. We’ll be cheering you on from Canada ladies!

Survivors Abreast wins the Survivor Challenge in the Kingston Dragonboating Festival.
Survivors Abreast wins the Survivor Challenge in the Kingston Dragonboating Festival.

Do you enjoy water activities? Try paddleboarding, kayaking, and more in Kingston!

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Introducing: The Isabel

The mandate? Design a new arts centre for Queen’s University.

When you put it like that, it sounds simple.

But in fact, it was anything but. In addition to a performance hall, the building needed to accommodate the very different needs theatre, music, and film and media students. And all fit within a compact piece of land that, while it featured fantastic lakeside views, demanded fitting a new building around substantial historic structures.

That was the challenge for Ottawa-based architects N45 and Oslo’s Snøhetta. The Norwegian firm is well known for designing a number of significant buildings worldwide, among them the Library at Alexandria in Egypt as well as impressive performance halls in Oslo and Busan, South Korea. The Isabel is Snøhetta’s first-ever Canadian commission.

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The 566-seat performance hall has two-foot-thick walls to effectively muffle sound.
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The Principal Emerita Karen Hitchcock Rehearsal Hall mimics the acoustics of the performance hall.
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Film screening room offers unobstructed views.

The firms’ winning design located the bulk of the new building within the courtyard created by the historic brewery and stable – and then incorporated them directly into the new facility. Repurposing the former brewery meant removing the existing pine, hemlock and spruce floors, which was later re-milled and used to finish the interior of the building’s lobby.

 

If the Isabel can be said to have a heart, it is the 566-seat performance hall. Virtually a building within a building, no part of the hall touches the rest of the structure directly and its two-foot-thick walls so effectively muffle sounds that even if someone outside the hall were pounding on the floor with a hammer, the audience inside wouldn’t hear it.

 

The acoustics were designed by New York-based Arup using their Virtual SoundLab technology, which allows the environment of a space to be listened to before it is even built. Retractable motorized acoustic drapes allow the performance hall sound to be customized even further. For several years now, Arup’s team has collaborated with the architects at Snøhetta to create the pristine acoustics of the Isabel concert hall as well as the rehearsal hall, which exactly replicates the main venue’s acoustics. It is rare that sound engineers work so closely with the architects from day one.

 

When Robert Matthews, the lead architect from N45, first saw the site he recalls being stunned by the view – the white-capped lake, with all its “presence and power.” Thanks to its large expanses of glass, the Isabel’s design draws the lake into the building while its sinuous steel roof echoes the glistening waters. Together they tie what Matthews justly calls “one of the great concert halls in eastern Canada” to its waterside environmentThere are few Canadian classical ensembles that are as recognized internationally as Quebec City’s Les Violons du Roy. The orchestra has been applauded around the world, touring to European centres no fewer than 10 times in its 30-year history. Les Violons, which just released its 26th recording, last visited Queen’s 12 years ago and launches a North American tour at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. The ensemble appears with the Grammy Award-nominated pianist, Marc-André Hamelin, in a program featuring works by Haydn, Mozart and Rameau.

 

This story originally appeared in the program for The Isabel Bader Centre for Performing Arts at Queen’s University. For more information about the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing arts visit theisabel.ca.

 

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Sam Roberts Band Announces Lo-Fantasy Canadian Tour Dates

Live Nation Canada is excited to announce that Juno Award-winners, Sam Roberts Band will be heading on tour to perform for their Canadian fans this November in support of their latest album, Lo-Fantasy. Supporting them on select dates will be special guests The Besnard Lakes. Complete tour listing below.

Tickets for the Lo-Fantasy Tour are available from www.livenation.com.

Sam Roberts, called in a broad spectrum of influences for his fifth studio album, Lo-Fantasy, from the Clash to Fela Kuti, from electronic-gurus Underworld to Etienne De Crecy, from Gordon Lightfoot to Ray Davies, before turning to Youth (a.k.a. Martin Glover) to help sculpt these different directions into a focused, living whole. Youth (a.k.a. Martin Glover) boasted an incredible resume, with production credits ranging from The Verve’s ‘Urban Hymns’ to Crowded House, as well as stints performing with Paul McCartney, ambient-techno kings The Orb, and post-punk outfit Killing Joke. A combination of sleep deprivation, excitement, uncertainty, and adrenaline pushed the band outside any notion of comfort when creating the album, generating their most dynamic and inventive arrangements to date. It also helped capture the fiery spirit and urgency that have made their live shows so legendary, earning them spots performing everywhere from Letterman and Conan to Bonnaroo, ACL, Lollapalooza and Bumbershoot, and alongside heroes like the Rolling Stones and AC/DC.

For more information: www.samrobertsband.com

SAM ROBERTS BAND LO-FANTASY TOUR DATES
With special guests THE BESNARD LAKES:

November 13 – Kelowna Community Theatre – Kelowna*

November 15 – Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – Edmonton

November 16 – Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – Calgary

November 18 – O’Brians Event Centre – Saskatoon

November 19 – Burton Cummings Theatre – Winnipeg

November 27 – Hamilton Place Theatre – Hamilton

November 28 – London Music Hall – London

November 29 – Rogers K-Rock Centre/OLG Casino Thousand Islands Theatre – Kingston

** With guests Pigeon Park. Besnard Lakes will not be performing.