Blog Archives

Third Annual FreshFest a Delicous Success

8/29/2011

Photos by Mark Girdauskas

The 3rd Annual FreshFest returned to the CASO Railway Station on Thursday August 25th and was a delicious success. Here is a sampling of scenes from the evening which featured tantalizing tasters prepared by talented local chefs, using foods grown in Elgin County and nearby. More about the event can be found at http://www.freshfest.ca/.

Savour Elgin members and staff from County of Elgin.

Beverage companies on hand included Rush Creek Wines, Railway City Brewing, Quai du Vin (photo Savour Elgin), Smith & Wilson Estate Wines, Blackfly Beverages.

Matthew & The Birds provided entertainment.

Hilarious Antics from the Bedroom

8/22/2011

Entertaining Elgin by David J. Ferguson

Photo courtesy of Port Stanley News

What happens in the bedroom stays in the bedroom, or at least that is normally the case. However, being the curious individuals that most of us are, a peek behind closed doors is likely to be intriguing. We can thank Canadian playwright Norm Foster for giving us the chance to be flies on the wall for the goings on behind the bedroom door in Bedtime Stories.

Foster has skilfully woven a six-tier plot throughout the entire play, delivering snapshots of life through 15 characters. It was a pleasure to sit through six episodes of Foster’s work, all in one outing at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre, for the final play of this summer’s season.

Director Simon Joynes has brought together a phenomenal five actor ensemble. They execute their roles and deliver the play in a manner that Foster must surely have envisioned.

Bedtime Stories begins in a hotel room with Betsy and Lou Ballantyne (Danielle Nicole and Chris Bancroft), a middle aged couple who have agreed to have sex on live radio for $5,000. After much rib tickling discussion and reflection the over ambitious radio host, Eddie Nichols (Rod Keith), calls off the stunt and walks out. However a bumbling technician forgets to turn off the microphone which is strategically placed at the headboard of the bed. This sets the tone for the following 5 stories with the passionate love making and intimate conversation between the married couple wielding its way into the bedrooms of others as the play progresses.

From the rebellious teeny bopper Melody (Elana Post), daughter of the Ballantyne’s, to Jim Doucette’s portrayal of aging 52 year old rocker Tommy Quick, the entire five person cast is stupendous. All play multiple roles flawlessly throughout the six story vignette. It must have been quite difficult for them to keep a straight face during many of the hilarious interactions.

Set layout for each of the scenes required little change and was carried off smoothly, with quite believable new bedrooms appearing for each new “story.” There was nary a flaw in costumes, set or performance.

This is certainly the crown jewel of the five plays presented this year at Port Stanley Festival Theatre. It runs until September 10th. Be sure to bring a tissue or two to wipe the tears of laughter from your face.

For more information, visit www.portstanleytheatre.ca or call 519-782-4353.

Wish Upon A Song with Studio Arts

8/17/2011

Story & Photos by Mark Girdauskas

On Sunday August 14th Quai Du Vin hosted Studio Arts with a special event called "Wish Upon A Song".

Kids from the Studio Arts School of Rock appeared on the Quai du Vin stage to showcase music, and what they have learned as a benefit concert to send a young local family dealing with cancer to Disney World.

Studio Arts members and guests performed from early afternoon, into the evening. In spite of rain on and off (and on) throughout the day, there was lots of fun to be had with food cooked by Chef James Meadows, silent auction, children's play area, MyFM Disbrowe Cruzer, and Heather and Candice from Quai du Vin providing refreshments.

For a dollar, concert-goers could buy a green balloon and write a message. Mayor Heather Jackson-Chapman counted down their release.

Brian May, founder of the Studio Arts School of Rock notes on their website, "I grew up with two styles of learning music…the traditional way of learning (studying accordion for eight years and participating in the local rotary festivals) and also experiences of growing up playing music together with my brother and two sisters…I learned how to 'jam', and how to play by ear. Both methods are extremely important to make music a 'life long' passion. Studio Arts is dedicated to help our participants develop that 'life long passion'."

It's a philosophy that has seen the organization develop into one of the largest rock schools in Canada, producing legions of great young musicians - and its home is right here in Elgin County!

Studio Arts School, all of the performers, sponsors and volunteers who made this day and benefit possible deserve a huge thanks.

Visit www.studioartsrock.com to learn about the school and registration for fall registration.

See scenes from the day and some of the performances in the slide show below.

Get Peachy in Elgin County

8/16/2011

The Ontario peach season is in full swing.

The St. Thomas Horton Farmers' Market celebrated the juicy, sweet goodness with their First Annual "Just Peachy" Breakfast on August 13th. The treat consisted of homemade buttermilk waffles topped with honey-roasted peaches, vanilla ice-cream and mint & basil syrup. The Senior's Centre brought their famous peach pies. Below, find some scenes from August 13 at the Market.

Some Peach Facts

Peaches were first cultivated in China; they were brought to Europe from Persia.

A warm, temperate climate such as the one of the Niagara Fruit Belt is best for growing peaches.

They are the least cold-hearty of stone fruits, but are nurtured with delicious results in a few orchards in Elgin County. Two of these include Berry Hill Fruit Farm (see Renee's recipe for Sunshine Smoothie using frozen peaches) and Great Lakes Farms.

Find Peaches Fresh Nearby

Visit a farmgate, farmers' market or farm market and look for fresh local peaches.

Select fruit which is fairly firm, and sweet-smelling with smooth peachy-coloured skin. The amount of red in the skin is dependent upon variety not ripeness.

Green colour indicates the peach was picked too early.

Semi-Freestone Peaches are available earlier in the season and are excellent for eating simply out of hand. Freestone Peaches, available mid-August to end of September are suitable for eating fresh or preserving.

Keep at room temperature till ripe (do not store in a plastic bag). Store ripe peaches in a single layer in the refrigerator.

Simply Sensational

Rinse peaches under running water just before eating and eat just as they are.

To make peeling easier, immerse briefly in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds, immerse in ice water, make a v-cut in the top, then pull skin away from peach.

Slice onto breakfast cereal.

Toss slices into a green salad; try poached, broiled or grilled.

Combine with blueberries or raspberries in a fruit salad.

Simply Sensational Plus

Peaches are a favourite for making jams, pies, cobblers, crisps, cakes and sauces.

They pair deliciously with cream for peaches & ice-cream, peaches and cream or peaches and sour cream pie.

The classic Peach Melba includes ice-cream and raspberries.

Savoury dishes include salsas, and combinations with chicken, salmon or other meats as marinade or glaze.

Relish Peaches All Year

Peel, pit and slice peaches; sprinkle with sugar and fruit preservative according to package instructions and pack into sealed plastic containers or freezer bags.

Find Out More

Peach Melba http://www.reluctantgourmet.com/blog/dessert-recipes/peach-melba-recipe/
Recipes and information from Foodland Ontario
Recipes and information from The Ontario Fruit Institute
Savoury & Sweet Recipes from the Food Network
Peach Pie with Sour Cream Pastry from Canadian Living

Grilled Tandoori Chicken & Peach Skewers
Recipe by Foodland Ontario

Last minute guests? Don’t worry. These skewers taste amazing and require minimal work. Tandoori paste is available at most grocery stores, but in a pinch any Indian paste can be used. The skewers are excellent with basmati rice as well.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients:
1/4 cup (50 mL) plain yogurt
4 tsp (20 mL) bottled tandoori paste
1 lemon
1 lb (500 g) boneless skinless Ontario Chicken Breasts or Thighs
3 firm but ripe Ontario Peaches or Nectarines
1 tsp (5 mL) olive oil
3 tbsp (45 mL) finely chopped fresh coriander
Salt
4 small naan bread (optional)
Raita (homemade or store bought), optional

Preparation Instructions:

In medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, with tandoori paste and 1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon juice. Cut chicken into bite-size chunks; add to yogurt mixture and stir. Refrigerate, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or covered overnight.

Cut unpeeled peaches into 4 wedges each. In bowl, toss together peaches, 1 tsp (5 mL) lemon juice, oil and 2 tbsp (25 mL) of the coriander..

Thread chicken onto 4 skewers; thread peaches onto remaining skewers. Sprinkle both with salt to taste. Place chicken on greased grill over medium heat; grill, turning occasionally for 7 minutes. Add peach skewers; grill until juices run clear when chicken is pierced and peaches are warm, 2 to 4 minutes. During last minute of cooking, grill naan if using. To serve, top each naan with 1 peach skewer, 1 chicken skewer and dollop of raita. Sprinkle with remaining coriander.

Tip: To prevent peaches from spinning when grilling, thread skewer through top and bottom of each wedge.

Fun-Packed Days at Aylmer Fair 2011

8/16/2011

Story & Photos by Mark Girdauskas

The Aylmer Fair presented its 165th edition Friday August 12th to Sunday August 14th. It’s the oldest fair in District 13. The East Elgin Agricultural Society members and the community are proud of the fair's past, while at the same time looking forward.

Scott Lewis, Society President, is determined that they make each fair stronger. This year’s event was three days, rather than the four of past fairs. The goal is to make each day action-packed.

I had opportunity to check out the sights and sounds of the Aylmer Fair Friday and Saturday.

The Canadian Cow Girls were a new attraction. The ladies of this elite rodeo-style precision drill team put on a great show with musical performances and fantastic stunts.

The Mid-Way offered the allure of cotton candy and corn dogs. Campbell Amusements presented a good range of rides and events, busy but with short line-ups. The mood was one of smiles and excitement.

Horse-power was the centre of the action Saturday with tractor pulls, two-ramp races, figure eight races, and finally the demolition derby. The day also demonstrated a good share of Cow-power, and I was able to observe the Best in Class judging. Representatives from local farms competed, and the judging was tough.

The Aylmer summer fair is well worth attending. Community support for these events is important – local does matter.

Family Fun Day at Old St. Thomas Church

8/9/2011

Summer staff are on duty for free tours of the historic Anglican Church and Cemetery in St. Thomas from May 17th to September 3rd. Together with volunteers, they also put together, each year, an afternoon of free food and fun activities for families. Below are some photos from the August 6th afternoon at the Old St. Thomas Church. Find out more at www.oldstthomaschurch.com

Above: August 6th at The Old St. Thomas Church. Photo #3: (left to right) Becca Francis, volunteer; Michael Singer, tour guide; Danielle McKay, tour guide; Heather Ballard, volunteer; Samantha Ballard, volunteer; Jenny Olivier, former staff member. Photo #5: a family visits Jeff Booth, at the Story Time Corner.

Annual Ceremony in Memory of the Lives Lost in Atomic Bombings

8/9/2011

Every August for more than 20 years the Society of Friends (Quakers) from Sparta have organized a Lantern-Floating Ceremony to remember those who lost their lives due to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan. This year’s event was held at Pinafore Park on August 6, where those gathered took part in lantern-building, pot-luck dinner, bubble-blowing and, as dusk approached, a minute of silence and the floating of the lanterns. Organizer Julie Berry has found that the gathering grows each year as people return to experience the serene event.

Lavender Fairy Festival at Steed & Co

8/9/2011

Having planned a perfect afternoon with magical fairies, pretty sugary treats, glittery crafts, delightful music by Juno nominated children’s performer “Jam Sandwich” and all manner of whimsical fun, Suzanne, owner of Steed & Co Lavender was a bit crestfallen to look up at a threatening sky and realize the long-awaited afternoon of fairy fun and lore was about to get dumped upon by buckets of rain, before the festivities even got started.

Photos above by Mark Girdauskas, just before the rain.

The Saturday August 6th afternoon Festival was to be held in honour of none other than the Lavender Fairy, the one who runs the fairy laundry. It is said she carries the loads of laundry to a nearby stream where she washes them with lavender soap. As it turned out, The Lavender Fairy may have planned, all along, to do the laundry on this particular occasion the automatic way – with a torrential downpour from the sky. The rain came down; she completed her work in quick order and was ready to party.

Says Suzanne, the rain stopped - sunshine and little child fairies suddenly appeared. She laughs, "They must have been waiting in their cars for the rain to stop and the fun to begin!"

Steed & Co Lavender is a lavender farm and gift shop located just east of Sparta at 47589 Sparta Line. In the gift shop, visitors will find a variety of exquisite lavender products including a full range of culinary lavender specialties. Find out more at www.steedandcompany.com.

Blueberry Bounty in West Elgin

8/4/2011

West Elgin has a bounty of blueberries, with three pick your own / already picked locations in close proximity. We visited all three recently and found the busy blueberry season in full swing and bushes abundant with a mixture of intensely blue ripe berries and lovely purplish pre-ripe ones.

Blue Groves Blueberries
Blue Groves is owned by Bob & Marianne Hatch. They are in their 33rd year notes Marianne, with a smile that suggests she finds that this hardly seems possible. Their 15 acres of blueberries includes several varieties. Although the spring was a bit rough with bees reluctant to pollinate in the damp weather, the crop has turned out well.
Blue Groves U-Pick Fruit Farm
25503 Talbot Line (near Eagle on Hwy 3)
519-768-3276

Above, at Blue Groves Blueberries: Sarah with daughters Jenny and Lizzy (left) & Anika, Lizzy & Jilli (right).

Above, at Blue Groves Blueberries: Susan, Zorka and Boris Pertout. Susan and husband Boris grew up nearby and have been returning for the last twenty years with Boris's Mom Zorka to pick their supply of blueberries to freeze for winter.

Blueberry Hill Farm
Irene Puddester fell in love with Blueberry Hill when she discovered it 17 years ago, and hasn't looked back. Planting of bushes there started 35 years ago. Irene offers berries that are grown without chemicals, and rely on the naturally-occurring bee population for pollination. Nine acres of berries produce about 1,000 bushels per acre on varieties with intriguing names like Blue Crop, Blue Ray, Berkeley, Patriot and Blue Jay.
Blueberry Hill Farm
22039 Hoskins Line, Rodney
519-785-2217

Above, Irene Puddester and some scenes from her Blueberry Hill Farm.

Beary Blue Acres
Twenty-seven years ago, Dennis and Sandra Fishcher wanted to try planting something new as part of their farm. They chose blueberries and today the field across from their home is a well-established 5-acre patch. Sandra's favourite way to eat blueberries is in smoothies – you'll find a recipe on the Beary Blue website (with an option of adding peach schnapps, mmmm!) They also carry dehydrated berries – they're little bursts of flavour that I look forward to trying as a replacement in recipes calling for raisins.
Beary Blue Acres
23301 Queens Line, Rodney
519-785-0450
www.bearyblueacres.com

Above Sandra Fishcher and some scenes from Beary Blue Acres & Andrew and Lana who come from London to pick blueberries.

All three locations are pleasant, peaceful places to visit and pick-your-own. Pails and cute little picking stools are provided. Or you can just stop in and purchase ready-picked or frozen as available. Bird cannons deter some of the birds, not all, but there seem to be ample supplies of berries for birds and humans. The berries should be available for another two or three weeks, till around the third week in August.

Blueberry Facts

Wild blueberries are native to North America, and were used by early settlers in a variety of foods.
In the early 1900's researchers began to domesticate wild highbush blueberries to develop the cultivated highbush kind, and in 1976, the cultivated berries began to be grown in Ontario. From 5 to 7 feet high, they have larger fruit than the wild berries.
Blueberries rely on bees for pollination.
Blueberries are a source of Vitamin C and fibre and contain notably high levels of anthocyanins and other antioxidant pigments. It's the anthocyanins which give them their intense blue colour.

Find Blueberries Fresh Nearby

Visit a farmgate, farmers' market or farm market and look for fresh local blueberries. Select firm sweet-smelling berries. Store loosely covered in the refrigerator.

Simply Sensational

Eat just as they are or sprinkled on cereal, ice-cream or yogurt, or in smoothies.
Fruit salad combinations with raspberries, strawberries, melons or nectarines burst with refreshing summer flavour. Try a combo-salad without sugar or sprinkled with a little simple syrup or lavender syrup (available from Steed & Co Lavender).

Simply Sensational Plus

Blueberries are featured in many old-time favourites like pies, crisps, and cobblers which traditionally contained wild blueberries.
Several flavours make classic pairings with blueberry, including lemon (Blueberry Lemon Crisp), ginger (Blueberry Pie with Ginger Crust), peaches (Frozen Peach Mousse with Blueberry Swirl), mint (Minted Blueberry Fruit Salad) and basil (Lemon Cupcakes with Blueberry Basil Filling, Blueberry Basil Ice-Cream).
They are also the main ingredient in many savoury combinations (Blueberry-Onion Sauced Pork Tenderloin or Pan Seared Duck Breast Glazed with Blueberry Ketchup).
All these recipes and more can be found on the websites listed below.
Pancake tip: sprinkle the blueberries on top of the batter after it is poured, to prevent the blue colour from running through the pancakes.
Try this recipe for Blueberry Brickle, an Arts & Cookery Bank favourite from Blue Groves Blueberries.

Relish Blueberries All Year

Blueberries freeze well for use when this year's season is over.

Spread in a single layer on a cookie sheet.
Place the berries in the freezer till hard (about three hours). Transfer the frozen berries to freezer bags or containers and return to the freezer. Most sources recommend the blueberries not be washed before freezing, but later when they are removed from the freezer. (I have found that washing before freezing works fine as long as they are dried very well first. )

Find Out More

Find blueberry information and recipes at: the Ontario Berry Growers Association; Foodland Ontario;
The Ontario Berry Growers have also produced a video on how cultivated blueberries are grown, with some nice photos of the blueberries in blossom.
Blueberry Canada has started a campaign to make blueberries our national fruit, based on the fact that it is native to all provinces and territories, cherished by English, French and Aboriginal Canadians and ranks as the number one fruit crop in the country. There's place to contact them if you support the campaign, or just think blueberries are a cool fruit.
The US Highbush Blueberry Council provides information and recipes, including savoury and chef-inspired ones.

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