International Woman’s Day (IWD) was Sunday, March 8. This is a day set aside on a global scale to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for advancing gender equality. The first IWD was celebrated in 1911.

The community of Asphodel Norwood has organized events over the years in honour of the day and 2026 is no exception. This was actually the second year for organizers Jennifer Stewart, Susie Smith and Ashley Calder to host the annual event. The Norwood Town received a good crowd that came to hear three fantastic guest speakers. This year’s theme was “Give to Gain,” focusing on fostering, gender equality through abundant giving, collaboration, mentorship and reciprocity, emphasizing that when women thrive, everyone rises. Each of the keynote speakers highlighted the importance of taking immediate steps toward achieving equality.

Those speakers included Jessica Outram, an award-winning author, poet laureate emeritus and educator. Jessica’s literary work explores place, memory and forces that shape life. She is a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario.

Gloria Fernandes has a foundation in biochemistry and a career in university education. Gloria’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention and leadership, believing that knowledge has the power to transform lives and that when a woman steps forward with courage they don’t just change their own story, they have the power to open doors and elevate others.

Heather Howe is a registered social worker, psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and trainer who specializes in violence against woman and girls. Heather is also a Wen-Do Woman’s Self Defence Instructor. Her address included information about violence against women and how you can support someone who is being abused.

Admission to the talk was free, however guests were asked to assist the Norwood Foodbank with either a food item or a donation. Norwood residents are known for their generosity and filled several carts with groceries and donated $650 to help the food bank meet their unfortunately growing need.

The organizers would like to thank their guest speakers and all who attended. A special thank you is extended to the volunteers that contributed their time and talents to help the day go off without a hitch. The organizers are also looking forward to seeing everyone again next year.

A couple of weeks ago this column featured a group of talented young orators that had placed first in their age categories at the Norwood Legion’s annual Public Speaking Contest. Well I am pleased to report that they did very well again at the Legion Zone F-5 competition held in Lakefield on March 8. (An area roughly the size of Peterborough County) The competition was tougher and the speeches from all the competitors were excellent, however three of our local speakers once again delivered their prepared stories with conviction, precision, feeling and a little comedy to come out on top.

In the Grades 1-3 Primary Competition Bridgette DeCunha’s compelling speech about the benefits of having a pet rat and her continuing mission to get her parents let her have one earned her top honours. At the Intermediate level (Grades 7-9) Daniel Ross once again rose to the top spot with his humorous dialogue about Useless Facts. While his big sister Lora Ross took the top honour in the Senior level (Grades 10-12) with her emotionally charged speech about memories and once again had many listeners “choked up.” The three will now head to the Marmora Legion on March 28 for the District Level Competition.

The Norwood United Church will continue its annual spring tradition of hosting a special musical performance at its Highway 7 church. This year they are pleased to present “Swing Set” an ensemble of the Peterborough New Horizons Bands on Sunday, March 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. Swing Set is a group of talented instrumentalists who perform under the direction of Justin Hiscox. Their music will take you back to the big band era, with a variety of cheerful, toe-tapping numbers. There’s even room for a little dancing, if you are so inclined. 

Justin Hiscox will be familiar to many in the area, as he is the resident composer for the 4th Line Theatre in Millbrook as well as conducting concert and swing bands with the Peterborough New Horizons Bands. Admission to the concert is by donation (although the suggestion is $20). The church is fully accessible and you will find plenty of parking.

The 3rd Annual Norwood Hospice Bonspiel was held on March 7 at the Norwood Curling rink. This year’s first place team was Paul Cole, Neil Stockdale and Barri and Allan Shepherd, The second place team was Jason Ferguson, Denis Bergeron, Janice Wood and Nicole Bennett. The important third place spot was taken by the team of Andy Crowell, Byron Tames, Brian Hook and Audrey McLaughlin.

This annual event is organized by Larry and Lori Sullivan and raised an impressive $2,500 for Hospice Norwood.

A delicious roast beef lunch was prepared and served by Heather Reynolds and Helen MccAulay with the assistance of kitchen helpers Roy and Lark Soehner.

A huge thank you goes to everyone who participated in the Bonspiel as well as all the volunteers and sponsors. Without your help, it simply could not succeed.

The sponsors contributed through cash donations and/or prizes for raffle, the Norwood Curling Club donated the use of facility and several members stepped up to help as volunteers.

Sponsors included Walsh Electric, Maple View Retirement Residence, The Norwood Fair, Norwood Lions, Dan Pitchie — Club Bar Manager, Papas Pizzaland, NAPA Norwood, Scents & Suds, Hair Fashions 4 All, Stewart Motors, TimberMart, Foodland, Norwood Home Hardware, Oakland Greens, Theo & Marg Van Will, Asphodel Sheep Farm, Mercatto Pastry, The She Shed — Jen Payne, Darla Gooding and Larry and Lori Sullivan.

© Peterborough Examiner