It’s time for romance with Aces of Harmony
Vocal group is once again offering Valentine’s Day songs, this year online
Let the Aces of Harmony say “I love you” with a song. The barbershop chorus’ annual Singing Valentine fundraiser is back, albeit a little differently this year.
“Unlike previous years when we'd head out Feb.14 to sing as a quartet attired in tuxes, due to COVID times we all dressed up in tuxedos on our own and created a video that is specified to the recipient of the Singing Valentine,” says Aces member Fred Rapson.
That recipient could be a husband or wife, partner, co-worker, colleague or parent. In classic traditional manner, the chorus will serenade that special someone with a virtually delivered personalized message, two songs and a rose.
“One of our singers will go on camera and make reference to the particular individual being presented/surprised, followed by the songs,” said Rapson. “Plus, presentation of the flower, which I was chosen to do at the end of the video.”
This year, the Singing Valentine is just $15. In past years, when the presentation was made in person, the cost was $50. All proceeds from the initiative go to Sing Canada, an organization promoting youth in song.
This year’s video presentations are “far more wide-ranging geographically than being there in person, and just as special,” says Rapson.
The Aces of Harmony barbershop singers include members from the Peterborough, Bowmanville, Port Hope and Lindsay areas. They regularly meet to practise at Northminster United Church on Sunset Blvd. Now, due to the pandemic, they meet and hold their regular practices via Zoom.
All orders and payments must be received by Feb. 12. Book your Singing Valentine now by emailing max.vandervoet@sympatico.ca or calling 705-740-4573.
Auction items needed
The United Way of Peterborough & District is organizing an online auction and they need your help. Although they already have “an amazing lineup of prizes,” they are looking for additional donations from local businesses. The auction, that runs from March 1-12, will raise funds for local United Way agencies and charities.
If you would like to donate an item, gift card or gift basket, contact Shelby at smunro@uwpeterborough.ca or send a message to the United Way via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
During the month of February, auction items and the donors will be featured on social media, creating awareness and giving thanks to the local businesses who have donated.
YWCA benefits
PKAR (Peterborough and the Kawarthas Association of REALTORS Inc.) has chosen the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton as their 2021 Realtors Care charity. Each year, PKAR members donate funds raised as part of their monthly donation and fundraising efforts to Realtors Care, which is then presented to a local charity that supports housing in our community.
“Realtor members of PKAR are engaged and active members of our communities, not only participating in fundraising through our association, but individually as well,” said Jon Maxwell, PKAR president.
“Housing is a priority for our membership and the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton provides a service that is vital for those in our community who are fleeing dangerous situations by providing a safe place to come home to.”
PKAR is a non-profit trade organization that represents the Voice for Real Estate in Peterborough and the Kawarthas and beyond. Membership stretches from Apsley, Bancroft and Lakefield in the north to Norwood, Hastings and Campbellford in the East, Millbrook and Cavan in the south and as far away as Toronto. Established in 1949, PKAR represents over 630 members across central Ontario.
“We are deeply grateful for this dedicated support,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.
“As realtors, PKAR’s members know that home is meant to be a safe haven, especially during these uncertain times. This partnership will ensure that safe, emergency shelter and 24hour support continues to be available at YWCA Crossroads Shelter for women and children who experience violence.”