Relish Elgin Event News

Photos From Recent Events, Articles from Elgin County, Photo Features - Find Them All at Relish ...

Relish Elgin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Find photos from recent events plus articles featuring Elgin County Events, Food & Dining, Arts & Culture at Relish Elgin More.....

Check out these Photo Features from 2011

Extraordinary Canadians First-Ever Event for Students Takes Place in Elgin County November 7, 2011

Relish Elgin — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Students from the six high schools in Elgin County met on Monday with four of the eighteen renowned Canadian authors who have written about twenty Canadians with their entries in the Extraordinary Canadians Biographies Series. More….

Kelly, Rachel, Isabella and Kevin (closest to furthest) from East Elgin Secondary School.

Southwold Remembers Service November 6, 2011

Relish Elgin — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The Keystone Community Complex in Shedden was packed for their annual remembrance service. Author Ted Barris was on hand to speak about D-Day. More…

Sunny Fall Weekend in Elgin County and Activities Galore - Pumpkin Smash, Art Show, First of ...

Relish Elgin — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

More…

Purple Steeple Antique Show filled the CASO Station.

Annual Art Auction at STEPAC November 4, 2011

Relish Elgin — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

This signature annual fund-raiser for the St. Thomas Elgin Art Centre was packed again this year. More…

Laura Woermke & Sherri Howard - ready for the auction to begin.

Visit by Ontario Table Autor at Last Regular Horton Market Day of Season, October 29, 2011

Relish Elgin — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Horton Farmers' Market wrapped up on Saturday October 29th with the last regular market day of the season. More…

Cindy Bircham signs the travelling table cloth and gets her book signed by Lynn Ogryzlo.

Bowling for Boobs Fundraiser at Heritage Lane October 14, 15, 16

Relish Elgin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

On Saturday October 15th, after the 3rd shift of six for the three-day event, it was clear to see that organizer Kelly Baines and the community have scored a perfect game with the fundraiser in support of the Canadian Breast Cancer Society. See photos from Friday evening by Mark Girdauskas. More…

Photo by Mark Girdauskas.

Colours of Fall from the Port Stanley Terminal Rail on Thanksgiving Weekend

Relish Elgin — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Thanksgiving weekend was the perfect opportunity to ride the rails in Port Stanley for the first time or to get re-acquainted with the PSTR. More…

Valerie and daughter Madeleine

Leading Ladies Leads to Loads of Laughs

Relish Elgin — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Aylmer Community Theatre presented Ken Ludwig's Leading Ladies as their first show of the season and a couple well paced couple hours of hilarity. More…

"Leading Ladies" Jack (Evan Thompson) and Leo (Greg Mizon).

Grape Harvest Begins at Quai du Vin

Relish Elgin — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The harvest began Tuesday at Quai du Vin Estate winery, with picking of their Aurore grapes and the start of what winemaker Jamie Quai calls Crush 2011. Read more and see photos by Mark Girdauskas at the vineyard.

Jamie Quai at the grape press.

29th Annual Fire Muster at Pinafore Park Sept 3 & 4

Relish Elgin — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Mark Girdauskas was on hand Labour Day Weekend to photograph some of the many activities of the 29^th Annual Fire Muster at Pinafore Park. See more photos.

WineTastic Wednesday at Kenny Iguana's

Relish Elgin — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The past few Wednesdays have found a growing group of wine fans joining Chef Jeff Ryersee for WineTastic Wednesdays from 7 to 10pm in the wine lounge at Kenny Iguana's Night Club & Restaurant. Read more about Kenny Iguana's Night Club & Restaurant.

Friday Night Cool August 25

Relish Elgin — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Jazz fans were treated on Friday evening to two opportunities to hear talented musicians. Bruce Smith brought well-known jazz alto-saxophonist Jeff Clayton along with the University of Western Ontario Jazz Combo to Kenny Iguana's in downtown St. Thomas for a lively "improv" session. Meanwhile, in Sparta, The Sparta House Tea Room got jazzy with the Ladd Trio following dinner.

Above: Bruce Smith and a group which included the UWO Jazz Combo and Jeff Clayton (top); scenes from the "Friday Night Cool" dinner and show with Jen Kee, Kim Ladd, Guy Miskelly and Ian Burbridge (bottom right, photo courtesy of Don Durkee).

Hilarious Antics from the Bedroom

Relish Elgin — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

David J. Ferguson saw a weekend performance of the final show of the season at the Port Stanley Theatre and recommends this hilarious, crowd-pleaser. Read his review of Bedtime Stories.

Photo courtesy of Port Stanley News

Fred Eaglesmith Kicks off Annual Picnic at CASO Station

Relish Elgin — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Fred Eaglesmith kicked off his annual Springwater Conservation Area Charity Picnic with a stop at the CASO Station in St. Thomas. The Thursday August 18^th performance filled the Anderson Dining Hall with music and fans.

Juno Award winner Fred Eaglesmith loves trains, so the venue was suiting. He seemed to enjoy being at The Station, and performed many songs from his 19 album repertoire, including a few with a train theme. The show opened with Fred's band and the Fabulous Ginn Sisters. They continued on with Fred for the remainder of the evening of music, and the Fred commentary which his fans love.

Above: Some scenes from the show at the CASO Station

Above: More scenes from the show, including Fred with station event coordinator Linda Martin (top right).

Wish Upon A Song with Studio Arts

Relish Elgin — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

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. See Mark G's story and photos from the day.

Annual Lantern Floating Ceremony in Pinafore Park

Relish Elgin — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Annual Lantern Floating Ceremony was held in Pinafore Park on August 6^th in memory of those who lost their lives due to the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan. See pictures from the evening and the ceremony.

Annual Fun Day at Old St. Thomas Church

Relish Elgin — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Staff and volunteers at the Old St. Thomas Church put on a Family Fun Day each summer. See some photos from the Sat August 6^th event.

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.

Lavender Fairy Festival August 6th at Steed & Co

Relish Elgin — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Saturday afternoon Festival was to be held in honour of none other than the Lavender Fairy, the one who runs the fairy laundry. See photos from the delightful afternoon of fairy fun and lore.

Above: Kiira and daughter Katie from St. Thomas were two of the many visitors to the Saturday Lavender Festival at Steed & Co.

Cake Walk to First Anniversary at Arts & Cookery Bank

Relish Elgin — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Arts & Cookery Bank officially opened in July 2010 to ooohhhs and aaahhhs, in a stunning heritage barn transformed into a chef's dream kitchen, and adjoined to an exquisite multi-purpose heritage hall. See how The Bank celebrated their First Anniversary on Saturday, July 16, 2011, during the Cactus, Cattle and Cowboys event in West Lorne.

Terri-Lynne (L) and sister Paige (R) of Rodney had their photo taken for The Bank's Photo Shoot-Out competition. Photo by Sharon Little.

Culinary Camping Weekend at Springwater

Relish Elgin — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Michelle Fournier loves great Canadian music and bringing it live to local audiences. It's her business (Centrepiece Marketing) and her passion. She and partner Glen Graham also enjoy the outdoors and well-prepared, down-to-earth, good food. It was only natural that, together, they dreamed up an event to include a smorgasbord of Canadian talent, both musical and culinary. See Mark Girdauskas' pictures and story from the first Culinary Camping held at Springwater July 23 to 24.

Above: James Meadows, Suki Kaur-Cosier, Michael P. Clive, Ellen Lacroix and Stephen Fearing.

Bee Beard Competition Amazes Again

Relish Elgin — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Hot weather makes the bees a little cranky, but the beekeepers were able to coax them into helping with their bee beards at the annual Bee Beard Competition Sat July 23. The crowd appreciated the efforts of both bees, and bearded (and also the lovely lines of cooling misters stretched across the Adventure Farm). See more pictures from this year's Bee Beard Competion at Clovermead.

St. Thomas Horticultural Society Home & Garden Tour

Relish Elgin — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Annual St. Thomas Horticultural Society Garden Tour on Sunday July 10^th featured seven gardens of varying sizes and styles. Gardeners opened their yards (6 in St. Thomas, 1 near Sparta) to share with the public on a beautiful summer day.

Above: Linda Bolton's has developed a shady, winding garden oasis in her back yard on Wellington Street. Sections of the garden create a private oasis, while sections at the back of the garden can be enjoyed by both the Bolton's and their neighbours.

Above: More of Bolton's gardens overflowing with interesting plants, including the front entranceway.

Above: Volunteers Nancy Baker and Cheryl Jermyn (top left) greeted visitors to a Metcalfe Street "outdoor room" garden. The smaller rear garden is a classic example of using flowers and furniture to create an intimate outdoor living space.

Above: The unique front garden of this Isabel Street home welcomes, while backyard dining and bar areas invite visitors to stay awhile.

Above: A Cottonwood Drive garden wraps around the house leading to backyard sitting and garden areas which have worked composting, rain barrel, and space for vegetables attractively amongst flower beds (top three photos). Owners of a Havenridge Court home have used stone and paving to enhance their plantings (bottom left). A smaller garden on Woodworth offers example of including what enchants the gardener in a small site with the fairies throughout (two photos on bottom right).

Above: One of the tour gardens was located on Yarmouth Centre Road (between Sparta Line and Fruit Ridge Line). Extensive gardens surround the house in the country location, setting off the home and offering beautiful spots to dine, sit or wander.

Above: Scenes from the Yarmouth Centre Rd garden. Gardener Dave Greaves and one of the tour organizers, Diane Vaughan (top right).

The St. Thomas District Horticultural Society holds public meetings featuring informative speakers and interesting demonstrations, 7:30pm on the fourth wednesday of the month from September to November and January to May at the Monsignor Morrison Catholic School, 10 South Edgeward Road, St. Thomas. An Annual Plant Sale is held in May at the Horton Farmers' Market and The Annual June Flower Show features roses, perennials, and floral designs.

Another Ultimate Afternoon at Quai du Vin

Relish Elgin — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The 4^th annual Ultimate Tribute rocked Quai du Vin in support of the Easter Seals of Ontario on Sunday. Frankie Valli, Roy Orbison, Ray Charles, Elton John, The Bee Gees and Abbamania appeared via tribute artists throughout the afternoon. The weather was hot but the energy of entertainers and dancers continued till the last performance of the day.

Above: Scenes from Quai du Vin, including "Ray Charles" (top left) and "Elton John" (top right).

Above: The Bee Gees tribute performance.

Above: Enjoying music and sun were Peter and Doris Benson from Delaware (top right) and Magny and Bob from London (bottom left).

Above: The ABBA performance topped off the day.

Above: More ABBA, more dancing and winemaker Jamie Quai (bottom middle).

For information about Quai du Vin Estate Winery, their wines and events, visit www.quaiduvin.com.

Fishing for Fun at Third Annual Pinafore Park Derby

Relish Elgin — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Kids flocked to Pinafore Park on Friday July 8 for the Third Annual Fishing Derby sponsored by Bear Adventures and the YMCA of St. Thomas Elgin. It was an opportunity to take part in National Fishing Week, experience the fun of fishing, and win prizes too.

Mark Girdauskas had opportunity to learn a bit about the event and to catch on camera some of the action and the delight of kids enjoying the outdoors. See more pictures from the Pinafore Park Fishing Derby.

Canada Day & Culinary Camping Revealed at St. Thomas Horton Farmers' Market

Relish Elgin — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The St. Thomas Horton Farmers’ Market celebrated Canada Day with cake from Spicer’s Bakery on Saturday July 2. A mid-morning torrential downpour drove market-goers inside but didn’t dampen spirits.

Michelle Fournier of Centrepiece Marketing joined the vendors this week to let people know about the upcoming Culinary Camping, happening July 23^rd. Michelle has organized the event to include great music, cool campsite cooking, farmers’ market, cooking demos and entertainment by musicians who have a flare for both music and cooking. Find out more http://www.culinarycampingevent.com/

Valdy and Graham Wardrop Entertain at Pinecroft

Relish Elgin — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Valdy and Graham Wardrop entertained the crowd at Pinecroft on Saturday July 2 with a pleasing mix of folk with a little blues thrown in. Pinecroft resident group, the Jammin' in the Cabin Gang opened for the performers. Valdy joked about having caught a Friday evening red-eye flight following his Salt Spring Island, B.C. Canada Day performance - he still managed to put on a lively, down-to-earth show as he and Wardrop alternated between solo songs and duos. The pond-side forest setting of Pinecroft proved the perfect venue for the folk sounds of Valdy and Wardrop. Find out more about the Pinecroft pottery, tearoom and music at www.pinecroft.ca.

Above: scenes from Saturday (top) and Valdy (bottom)

Port Stanley CanFest a Hit

Relish Elgin — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Port Stanley celebrated Canada Day in a big way this past weekend with a three-day festival of live music, theatre, parades, kid's activities, and, of course, fireworks on the beach.

Above: Photographer Mark Girdauskas took in many of the sites and sounds of Canada Day and captured them in photos. MORE…

Above, some scenes from Friday in Port Stanley

Restaurants throughout Port joined in the celebration. The Telegraph House B&B opened their patio to serve up some of their specialties (including strawberry shortcake & pie) and an evening of jazz with Don Durkee and Tom Stark.

Above, scenes from the Telegraph House with jazz entertainment by Don Durkee & Tom Stark, photos courtesy of J.Durkee.

Swing and Summer at Quai du Vin

Relish Elgin — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Stork Club and Quai du Vin presented the first edition of Summer Swing on June 25, 2011 for a successful afternoon and an event that is likely to return in future years.

It was a full program of performance by talented bands and stunning dance demos - the crowd showed enthusiasm for opportunity to hear swing music live, and to both watch and join in the dancing.

The fundraiser for the Stork Club Big Band Museum and Hall of Fame will assist the organization with developing their Music and Memories Interpretive Centre in Port Stanley and initiatives and to promote interest in the big band sound and swing, both past and in future.

Performers included Matthew & The Birds, Sahara Swing Band and Toronto All-Star Swing Band. Ballroom Dance Demonstrations were by Michael Murphy and The DD Dance Group and by Robert and Patricia Dodgson and Ballroom Breeze.

Find out more about The Stork Club Big Band Museum and Hall of Fame at www.musicmemories.ca.

Find out about other summer music events at the winery at www.quaiduvin.com.

Above: Matthew & the Birds

Above: Julianna and Johnny from Aylmer.

Above: Sahara Swing Band & dance performers.

Above: Toronto All-Star Swing Band and dance performers.

Above: Toronto All-Star Swing Band.

Above: Kate & Mike from West Elgin.

Above: Toronto All-Star Swing Band.

CASO Station Strawberry Social & Blues, Brews and BBQ Weekend

Relish Elgin — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

CASO Station Strawberry Social & Blues, Brews and BBQ Weekend

Something old (the annual CASO Station Strawberry Social) was followed by a new festival Blues, Brews and BBQ at the CASO station.

The Strawberry Social on June 18^th brought crowds for this annual treat and chance to see the station, a thank-you to the community from the North America Railway Hall of Fame.

When the strawberry treats and children's activities were finished, the blues bands, bbq and brews rolled in with a full program of music and heavy-duty bbq competition through Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon. The festival was also a fund-raiser for the St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital Foundation and volunteers were on hand to help with the event and serve up pulled pork on a bun, barbecued to perfection by one of the competing BBQ teams.

Above: Strawberry's appeared at the Social in many forms, including a human one. Berry Hill Farms supplied the real ones.

Above: Blues & Brews.

Above: master BBQ teams strutted their talents and filled the air with tantalizing aromas. Quai du Vin was on hand with a selection of wines.

Above: Blues under blue skies.

Above: more blues & brews.

Above: Rick Taylor offered the the final impressive blues performance on Sunday afternoon.

Photos by Mark Girdauskas.

Railway Nostalgia Weekend at Elgin Railway Museum

Relish Elgin — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

A great rail adventure was rolled out at the Elgin County Railway Museum for their annual Railway Nostalgia Weekend on June 18^th and 19^th.

Much of the rolling stock was moved outside for a close-up look under blue skies. The entrance area now includes an impressive new ticket wicket, and from there visitors could find railway buff and family-centred activities galore, including videos, historic photos, railway artifacts, model railway displays, hobby show vendors, and children's activities.

The Retreads presented a great picture (in vintage costume and in front of a luggage cart backdrop) and bluesy sound featuring railway themed tunes.

A short stroll down the tracks to the west of the museum offered a rare opportunity to look inside the BX tower.

Above: Much of the museum's rolling stock was brought outdoors.

Above: Vintages cars could be found nearby the museum and CASOrailway station,

Above: Doug Varty and Dean Harrison (The Retreads) sang the railway blues (top left), kids and adults alike were entertained by the clown (top right) and the BX Tower was open for viewing (bottom).

Photos by Mark Girdauskas (top & middle) and Relish Elgin (bottom)

The Neighbourhood Crime Watch At Princess Ave

Relish Elgin — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

It's a laugh a minute (or more) as the actors of Neighbourhood Crime Watch play their characters to the hilt. They look like they are having fun, and the audience finds that mood contagious. The play is by Craig Alpagh and directed by Peter Leack.

The crowd stood in appreciation as the actors took their bow following the Friday June 16 performance. Performers include: Kyle Pickersgill, Julianna Thompson, Paul Blower & John O'Reilly (top left); Ken Roberts, Charlene McNabb & Ross Hepburn (bottom right).

Ontario Heritage Plaque Installed at CASO Station

Relish Elgin — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The CASO Railway Station in St. Thomas was the focus of a milestone-occasion on Friday June 17^th as the Ontario Heritage Trust and the North America Railway Hall of Fame unveiled a provincial plaque commemorating the landmark building.

On hand to mark the occasion were representatives of the Ontario Heritage Trust, the North America Railway hall of Fame and local members from all three levels of government. All joined in noting the importance the railway and CASO station have played in St. Thomas history, as well as its stunning architectural features and attributes. Some of these were outlined in a booklet presented at the unveiling:

Built between 1971 and 1873.
In the 20's was one of the busiest in Canada.
Italianate in style and embellished with classical details such as pilasters, arched windows and passageways, wide eaves and a heavy cornice supported by paired brackets.
It's design, scale and quality of interior finishes make it unique within architectural history.

There are currently over 1,200 provincial plaques placed throughout Ontario. This will be the 12^th in St. Thomas.

Praise was given by all of the speakers for the people who formed the On Track organization in 2001 to purchase the station, envisioned its renewal and mustered the financial resources and community support to make that happen.

A crowd mingled about the station before and after the unveiling, with a prevailing positive mood reflective of an appreciation for the magnificence of the venue and its place as a community hub in St. Thomas.

Above, some scenes from the plaque unveiling. The platform party included Sam Wesley (Ontario Heritage Trust), Ruth Dudley (Ontario Heritage Trust), Matt Janes (Vice-President, North America Railway Hall of Fame), Heather Jackson-Chapman (Mayor, City of St. Thomas), Joe Preston (MP Elgin-Middlesex-London), The Honourable Steve Peters (MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London) (photo top right) & Beth Hanna (Ontario Heritage Trust) (photo middle right).

Above, architechtural details and the location of the new plaque outside the station.

Above, attendees enjoyed the great venue which has been created at the CASO station and catering by local caterers Mary & James Meadows.

Photos by Mark Girdauskas.

Port Stanley Artists' Guild Show & Sale Draws Art Lovers to Port Stanley

Relish Elgin — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Port Stanley Artists' Guild held their 21^st Annual Show and Sale over the past weekend. As usual, the show was a popular draw with a packed house on Friday evening for the opening. The work was as varied and interesting as the more than thirty-five guild members who contributed. Many of the artists were on hand to welcome visitors to the show and chat about their new pieces. The quality of work that makes up this show continues to impress each year.

Some scenes from Friday evening, including one of Robin Baratta with "Dance of the Pollinators", collage in mixed media.

More scenes from Friday evening, including Sharron Russell with her photograph "Through A Garden Door" taken in Old St. Augustine in Florida.

Rush Creek Decadence Among Winners at Agri-Food Innovation Awards

Relish Elgin — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Ontario's local farmers are growing innovative ideas that drive our local economies and strengthen our agri-food industry. These ideas were celebrated today at a ceremony in Strathroy honouring regional winners of the Premier's Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence.

Among the proud recipients was Rush Creek Wines Ltd., Elgin County. Maria Van Bommel, MPP Lambton Kent Middlesex presented this award to Wendy and Kim Flintoft for Decadence, a best-selling wine at Rush Creek. She notes that it is a product innovation that has also been spun into wine jelly, body cream, body sugar scrub and body spritzer.

Van Bommell expressed appreciation to the farmers who had taken the time to join in the award presentation and celebration, given that many are feeling the pressure to get onto their fields now that the weather will finally permit it. She noted that, for farmers, innovation is a "natural part of their being" without them really thinking about.

Following the presentations, winners and their guests enjoyed a luncheon featuring many Ontario/local foods.

Above clockwise from top left: Maria Van Bommell, MPP Lambton Kent Middlesex with Kim & Wendy Flintoft; Dave Mennill (Elgin County Warden), Wendy, Kim & Kate Burns (Elgin County Economic Development); lunch; the regional award winners.

Visit the Rush Creek website to find out more about Rush Creek Wines and Kim's imaginative story of the strawberry-chocolate Decadence sensation. Rush Creek Wines is a member of Savour Elgin, Elgin County's culinary trail.

Treblemakers Choir Presents Canadian Songbook in Dutton

Relish Elgin — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Treble Makers Women's Choir presented The Canadian Songbook on Friday June 3 at Knox-St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Dutton.

Director, Sharon Little notes that the group is both educational and performing, "warm and welcoming". That would also be an apt description for the evening of music which played to a packed church, and included Gillian Laidlaw accompanying on piano and special guests Stacey Zegers (singer/songwriter) and Rianna Koster (flute).

The choir was founded in 2007 and welcomes women, aged 14 and up, who want to sing a variety of music – from Bach to Boogie and Beyond. Find below a few pictures from the evening.

Talbot Settlement Comes to Life

Relish Elgin — Sun, 29 May 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Re-enactors and hands on activities at the Backus-Page House set the scene this past Friday and Saturday (May 27 & 28) for visitors to imagine life for the people of the Talbot Settlement in 1812. Attendees could play Pioneer games, and check out skills of yesteryear from spinning to rope making and native life skills.

A raid on the Talbot Settlement was followed by a mini-militia for children and skits by the West Elgin Secondary School Drama Department. Jackson Stanley, a West Elgin Secondary School student with a keen interest in history, set out to convey the importance of taking an interest in local history by presenting mini-plays with a focus on real people with stories we can relate to, even today. He co-wrote the series of skits with Drew MacMillan.

Below are some scenes from the raid re-enactment and the skits, and just a few of the many volunteers and re-enactors who helped visitors relive the Talbot Settlement.

Actors above, left to right: Charlotte Crober, William Weeks, Michael Gibbons, Bethany Mink, Ryeland Lozon , Sara Oliveira, Alex Sura, Kassandra Monck, Emily Penney (sitting). Not in photo are writers Jackson Stanley & Drew Mcmillan and teacher Mike Lynds.

Fifth Annual St. Thomas & Elgin Studio Tour

Relish Elgin — Sun, 29 May 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Fifth Annual St. Thomas & Elgin Studio Tour gave art enthusiasts opportunity to appreciate the treasure-trove of creative talent and energy that can be found in the work of our local artists. Congratulations to organizers St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre and all the artists who participated!

Clockwise from top left: Laura Woermke; Annette Martin; Suzette Terry; Candy McManiman.

At Jennifer M. Designs, clockwise from top left: Judy Ross; Jennifer Copland; Judy & Susan; Kim Clow; Susan Tanton.

Clockwise from top left: Janet & Katherine Medlyn; Sharon & Daniel Brassard; Kelly Wilson; Cheryl at Rubyeyes Kraftwerks; Nadine Furbacher & Jason Berencsi.

Clockwise from top left: Dianne Dobson & Sine Maule; Betty Burrell; Catherine Craig; Mary Elizabeth Postma; Josepha van den Anker.

So much talent, so little time to get to all the locations – artists on the tour not in photos above: Lori Wright, Stay True Tattoo; Ethel Mitrovic, Connie Greger, Shelley McVittie.

The Secrets to Making Great Pie Revealed at The Arts & Cookery Bank

Relish Elgin — Thu, 12 May 2011 04:00:00 +0100

What's the secret to making great pie? Make 12 great pies! That was one of the hints pie-maker Vicci Coughlin shared on Wednesday evening at the Arts & Cookery Bank. It was just the first of many.

Vicci's pies are renowned. She and husband Jon previously owned Billy's Deli Restaurant, Jon & Vicci's Snack Bar in London and The Pineapple Dining Room in Port Stanley - Vicci gained hordes of fans for her pies at each location.

Attendees at the class were treated to Vicci's famous Sour Cream Rhubarb Pie, then a demonstration of each step needed to create this spring sensation at home, and a chance to roll out their own crusts. What a great evening of learning and fun with a woman who is passionate about the art and science of pie-making, using the best ingredients, and featuring the fruits of the season.

Classes in the Lost Arts Series are designed to re-acquaint participants with the special experience of cooking & baking the old-fashioned, from scratch way. Sessions include ones on Making Bread, Pies & Tarts, Biscuits & Buns and Jams & Jellies. Find out more at www.theartsandcookerybank.com.

Vicci & Jon Coughlin continue to operate the Telegraph House in Port Stanley (www.telegraphhouse.com) where they still love to cook and now host their Inn guests to wonderfull dinners by the fire or alfresco dining on the side porch with great summer bbq's. They will still host small dinner parties (ten or less) in the 'new' dining room or small 'events with tents' on the side lawn.

Above: Vicci demonstrates the crust..

Above: The filling and the topping.

London Free Press Shunpiker Tour

Relish Elgin — Sun, 08 May 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The 42nd Annual London Free Pess Shunpiker Mystery Tour drew thousands for a tour in Elgin County, on a perfect sunny Mother's Day Sunday. Below, some photos from just a few of the stops.

Above. Caso RAil Railway Station, St. Thomas.

Above. Winter Wheat, south of Sparta. Madisun, Kamryn and their nana Caroll enjoy a picnic (bottom left).

Above. Pinecroft, south of Aylmer. Crowds toured the property, including the Jammin' in the Cabin stage and the pottery barn where potter Don was at the wheel.

Above. Massive carpets of trilliums could be seen on Sunday, including these at Corner's Corner, just off the Shunpiker Tour Route on Fruit Ridge Line south of St. Thomas.

Opening Day at the St. Thomas Horton Market

Relish Elgin — Sat, 07 May 2011 04:00:00 +0100

It was a Magnificent Market Morning on Saturday. Crowds and vendors were eager for the first market of the season and were greeted by sunshine as they visited, shopped and enjoyed the pancake breakfast served up by volunteers of the Market Board.

MMMMM blueberry pancakes were served for around three hundred who enjoyed the sunshine as they waited. Lisa, Neil and Robin (top left); James & son Liam (top right); volunteers Serge Lavoie, Lori Baldwin-Sands, Renee Saarloos & Shelley Holmes (bottom left).

Cathy & Lisa with McSmith's Organic Farm (top left); Dawn with Empire Valley (top right); Judy with Lindsay's Shiitake Mushrooms (bottom right); a happy clown; Janis Harris (bottom left).

Mary (Erie Gardens, top left); Nicole (Spatopia, bottom right), Stan & Rob (Koscik Greenhouse Tomatoes, bottom middle), Dawn & Matthew (Empire Valley Farm Market, bottom left).

Chris (volunteer and supplier of daffodil arrangements, top left); Jane (wildflowers tea, top right); Andrea & Sandy (Farmgate Markets, bottom middle); Gary (Lotus Thai, bottom left).

Shawn DeVree was happily meeting, greeting and coordinating on her first day as Market Manager.

Jimmy Rankin Rocks Princess Ave Playhouse Sunday Afternoon

Relish Elgin — Sun, 01 May 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Early in his Sunday afternoon show, Jimmy Rankin noted that his music might be categorized as "pop-country-roots" but what he plays isn't easily categorized and he likes good music of all kinds. For the next couple of hours he proved that he also plays good music of all kinds.

Though he got his start with his siblings performing in the Rankin Family, Rankin has since forged a highly successful solo career for himself. Accompanied by guitarist and drummer, Rankin played a mix of tunes including several from his new album Forgot About the World.

The audience showed their appreciation of Rankin's rich right-on vocals and range of musical choices. He worked the crowd with a well-paced show, ending the first act with "Wasted" and maintaining the tempo throughout the second set. A third of the way through, he announced, "We're having fun now!" That sentiment seemed to encompass Rankin, his accompanists and the filled playhouse.

St. Thomas Elginaires Partied in Harmony on April 30

Relish Elgin — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The St. Thomas Elginaires presented Come to the Party, their 43^rd Annual Show on April 30. Bursting with energy and tunes in the Barbershop style, the performance featured the St. Thomas Elginaires under the direction of Fidell Stewardson, Back in Time Quartet, Starting Pitchers Quartet and The Elginaires Chorus. Special guests, the Novelty Shop Quartet from Ohio presented, in perfect harmony, their hilarious, often tongue-twisting commentary on a medical theme. Host Arthur Voaden showed off some of its own musical talent with a presentation by the student Guitar Ensemble (Sarah, Tyler, Nick and Trent).

Photos below are from the Saturday April 30 evening performance.

In a Jam at the Arts & Cookery Bank

Relish Elgin — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Arts & Cookery Bank has launched their latest cooking series, The Lost Arts, with Making Jams & Jellies. The April 28^th class was led by Deb McCallum, someone who knows jam and is willing to share her secrets (or at least a great many of them), her practical tips, and her sense of humour. Deb is owner of In a Jam in Melbourne. In 1997 Deb was a working farm partner and doing lots of canning. Today, production tops 50,000 jars of jams and jellies in a year! And they are all made in small batches to maintain that homemade quality.

To start off the two-hour demonstration session, Deb gave a rundown on the differences between jams, jellies, preserves, chutneys, marmalade and conserves; ways to ensure products are safe and don't spoil, and the basic ingredients and how they effect the final product. Then it was on to the practicalities as she demonstrated strawberry freezer jam, two types of raspberry jam, and cranberry claret.

The class was relaxing and fun, as Deb got attendees sharing their own tips and preserving experiences. The parade of local fruits will start soon - rhubarb, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches and more. The class was an inspiration to preserve some of that summer freshness to enjoy all year long.

Below, some pics from the April 28 class, Deb demonstrating and the most wonderful kitchen at the Arts & Cookery Bank. The Jams & Jellies class will be offered again on Wed May 25th.

Julie Berry Book Launch April 15 & Artist 2 Artist April 17 Hosted by STEPAC

Relish Elgin — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 04:00:00 +0100

As we head into mid-April, spring and signs of green things growing seem elusive, but there was plenty of evidence during the past weekend that things are vital and thriving at the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre. The Centre hosted both a book launch and the first of a series of "conversations with local artists" events.

The Poetry of Julie Berry - the walnut-cracking machine

Julie Berry launched her new book of poems, "the walnut-cracking machine" on Friday evening. In her opening remarks, poet Susan Downe noted that the event was a marvellous one for the visual and gustatory senses and also in a social sense. Her comment perfectly summed up the atmosphere of the evening.

Susan Downe introduced Julie's work by saying, "She guilds her subjects with strokes of light" and "Julie is fearless and asks us to come along for the ride."

Julie, before reading selections from her book, commented that she has often done readings for rooms of mostly strangers and she expressed enthusiasm for a chance to read to a room of friends. She went on to share excerpts from her work with a crowd who seemed thoroughly engaged with the personal vignettes of place and time.

Julie's poems are creations of a woman with keen powers of observation; they are made interesting by a personal and unique slant on life and a whimisical sense of humour. Though uniquely Julie's own, they also convey a sense of the familiar. As Susan Downe noted in her opening remarks, "Julie writing about her places and her people reminds us of our life." I look forward to spending some more time with Julie's poems. The reading of them will be a perfect treat for an afternoon curled up under a cosy quilt or on a swaying hammock.

For more information, visit www.buschekbooks.com.

Julie Berry signs a copy of her poems for Mike Baker (top right); Robin Grindley and Neil Hubert were among Julie's friends who helped out with the event (bottom left); Julie Berry and Susan Downe (bottom right).

Artist 2 Artist: Walter Redinger. Al Sugarman. Ron Kingswood.

STEPAC hosted the first in a new series of events entitled Artist 2 Artist on the afternoon of Sunday April 17. Respected local artists Walter Redinger, Al Sugarman and Ron Kingswood presented their insights and inspirations as a conversation with each other and the audience, moderated by Art Centre executive director, Laura Woermke.

Questions offered a loose framework for the discussion which wove from theme to theme – influences; self-perspective as a Canadian artist; evolution in work over time; inspirations; mentors.

As with any good conversation, there was an interesting ebb and flow of energy and ideas. Some of the more memorable concepts brought forward included the importance of teachers to igniting an interest in art and to developing budding artists; art versus architecture; digital versus film photography; the idea of art as a language to express ideas; the drive of all three artists to create as being a need as vital as the one to breathe. Ron Kingswood noted that for him "the idea is as important as the art."

The intermission was indicative of the success of the event – the buzz of animated conversation was that of those appreciating the chance to strike up a conversation about art, inspired by the panel discussion.

As the afternoon drew to a close, the three artists were asked "What sound do you love" and interestingly all three indicated the song of a bird. Many of us have come to appreciate the tangible output of their efforts - Walter Redinger mainly as a sculptor and painter, Al Sugarman as a photographer and Ron Kingswood as a painter. Those in attendance were privileged to have opportunity to get a little insight into the creative essence behind the work of three respected artists, men whose ideas perhaps sometimes take flight with the sound of birdsong.

In conversation and thought, Walter Redinger, Al Sugarman and Ron Kingswood (middle); Ron Kingswood, Walter Redinger and Al Sugarman; Al Sugarman (bottom).

Annual Bean Blast Serves Up Lunch in Support of Community Outreach Dinners

Relish Elgin — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Annual Bean Blast serves up lunch in support of Community Outreach Dinners. These dinners are made possible by many volunteers and focus on providing nutritious meals to folks who are on fixed incomes, living in poverty or experiencing loneliness or isolation in their lives. This year's Bean Blast, hosted at St. Anne's Centre on April 14, featured homemade baked beans and coleslaw.

Helping to serve the luncheon are Linda Stevenson, Heather Jackson-Chapman, Lori Baldwin-Sands (top) & Linda Davidson, Graham Warwick, Terry Carroll (bottom).

St. Thomas Home, Garden & Outdoor Living Show, April 1-3

Relish Elgin — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The St. Thomas Home, Garden and Outdoor Living Show filled two pads of the Timken Centre with a variety of businesses and several community organizations. Vendors expressed enthusiasm for the show and for the great attendee response. Below, a few photos from Saturday morning at the show.

Above, Sue from Home Hardware, St. Thomas with the Traeger "Pink Pig Grill"; Sara & Fred Darlington owners of Paddlelac Chair Company.

Jim Ziegler, VP at the Elgin Military Museum provided updates on Project Ojibwa; Kate Burns and Lindey Morritt from Elgin Economic Development gave out copies of the 2011 Experience Elgin tour guide.

Georgia Sifton provided info on upcoming exhibits at the Elgin County Military Museum. Dan Vernackt showcased upcoming rides and events at the Port Stanley Terminal Rail.

Bill Beamish with Beamish Landscape Services; Hugh Shields with The Great Lakes International Airshow.

Kent Fuller & Bill Todd with Fire Prevention at the St. Thomas Fire Department; Obi Onyema with Country Pools St. Thomas.

Arrogant Worms

Relish Elgin — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Arrogant Worms stepped in on Saturday evening, for the final installment of the Performing Arts 2010/2011 series. Lost Fingers, originally scheduled, had to cancel due to illness and the Arrogant Worms graciously (and humorously) filled in on short notice. The trio first got together twenty years ago as a hobby, to make fun of a big dumb world. The world is still providing plenty of material for their music and comedy show. Arrogant Worms is Mike McCormick, Chris Patterson and Trevor Strong.

The Aylmer Performing Arts 2011-2012 season tickets are now on sale. The line-up includes Emm Gryner, Hemingway Corner, Skip Prokop, Fred Eaglesmith, Don Ross, "Shadow on the Household" and Royal Wood. Tickets can be purchased in Aylmer at Bela Booteek, Campbell's Office Pro, Fitness to the Max, and by calling 519-765-3039.

Princess Project Marches Into Spring in Bayham

Relish Elgin — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Princess Project promotes self-confidence and individual beauty by providing free prom dresses and accessories to high school girls who cannot otherwise afford them. Their effort is made possible through volunteer, donor and community support.

On Saturday March 26, the Bayham Community Centre in Straffordville was abuzz with activity at their "March Into Spring Shopping Extravaganza". More than 50 homebased business vendors showcased their newest items. The bake table was filled with sweet treats (but not for long) and entertainment was presented from the stage. The event was also a drop-off point for donations of gently used semi-formal and formal wear.

Find out more about local activities of the Princess Project at http://princessprojectelgin.com/. Below, find a few pics from the Saturday event.

The vendors at the March into Spring event provided a riot of colour, creativity and new things. Above, Brenda Helkaa & Petra Richardson presented beautiful products from "EcoPaper" made with recycled vegetable waste.

Vendors and attendees filled the Bayham Community Centre.

Entertainment included the local group "Undying Promise".

Canadale Garden Show March 25-27

Relish Elgin — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Annual Canadale Spring Garden Show runs March 25 - 27 with gardening inspiration galore. Each day has a full schedule of seminars, demonstrations and landscape displays. There's also Kids Club plus charity chili & hotdog lunch every day. The snake lady and her her friends appear Saturday & Sunday. For the complete schedule visit www.canadale.com.

Above right: Suzanne Steed from Steed & Co. Lavender.

Above right Linda Martin with North America Railway Hall of Fame.

Above left: Becky Vachon & Matt Janes from Railway City Brewery and Deb Benner from Heritage Line Herbs.

Above right: Brigette Cosens with St. Thomas Community Garden.

Nurturing the Harvest Presented by Elgin County on March 23

Relish Elgin — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0100

On March 23 Elgin County presented Nurturing the Harvest, a one-day seminar advancing the agricultural community towards a profitable, sustainable future. The event was held at the Keystone Complex in Shedden.

Keynote speaker and author Margaret Webb described the incident that prompted her journey of "eating across Canada", and resulted in her book "Apples to Oysters – A Food Lover's Tour of Canadian Farms." She describes tasting a salad that was incredible, the best she had ever had – the chef who prepared it wanted to talk only of the local farmer who grew the greens and was a "chef of the soil". Webb was prompted to go on a search for the foods of her childhood, before her family farm had morphed from 100 acres to an industrial 1500 acres, a time when the food "tasted like the seasons." In her book, she tells the tales of dedicated farmers engaged in sustainable agriculture and dedicated to feeding Canadians.

The presentations of the day might have been called 'from the ground up' as the theme of nurturing the soil and in turn nurturing people was a recurring one.

Tom Boon transitioned from conventional to organic dairy and cash crop farm. He set out with three criteria – he wanted his family's work on the farm to be financially viable, sustainable and enjoyable. He has found that through diligently working with compost and soil he has been able to increase the health of feedstock and cows who consume it. He has increased the farm's margins through the premiums paid for organic produce and the decreased cost of chemical inputs. He enjoys his work and is confident that he is creating a sustainable future on his farm.

Ken Laing praised the micro-climate of Elgin County and described the Community Supported Agriculture Program at Orchard Hill Farm. The Laing's had a pick your own operation for 17 years and transitioned to organic in 1989. Currently Orchard Hill offers 200 weekly shares of produce, paid in advance of the growing season and picked up by members at the farm. The relationship is one of mutual respect between farmer and eaters. Once again, the nurturing of the soil is key – the livestock supplies power and manure. Crop rotation and cover crop strategies nourish the soil, and in turn the foods grown at the farm. Find out more about Orchard Hill Farm at http://www.orchardhillfarm.ca.

Talks by Webb, Boon, Laing and the other speakers throughout the day got attendees thinking about local food policy and sustainability. The numbers of people who are passionate about local, organic and sustainable food production are growing. In the past "industrial" farming was promoted as the only way to feed the world, but that argument is often countered nowadays, with growing evidence that it's costs are too high, and that using fewer chemicals, taking care of the soil, creating a bond between farmer and eater provides immeasurable benefits to health and happiness.

Ken Laing provided a quote from Wendell Berry's "Nature's Measure" during his presentation. Interestingly Berry has been in the news recently as he was awarded a National Humanities Medal by President Barack Obama for his writings and conservation advocacy. In his 1977 book "The Unsettling of America," he wrote: "it is wrong to think that bodily health is compatible with spiritual confusion or cultural disorder, or with polluted air and water or impoverished soil."

Margaret Webb concluded that feeding the world requires self-sufficient food systems on a regional basis. She noted that meeting this need starts with local interest and creation of regional food policies. Webb also talked about the IAASTD (International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development) report, the largest assessment of agricultural technology ever undertaken and accepted by 59 of 62 countries involved. Check out this video for an interesting global perspective from the report. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-0B4Z-7A4s

Above, Margaret Webb, author of "Apples to Oysters"
signs a copy of her book for Roxanne Bale.

Swan Migration in Full Swing Sunday Afternoon

Relish Elgin — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0100

The Tundra Swan migration was in full swing Sunday afternoon at the Aylmer Wildlife Management Area north of Aylmer. The Sunday morning swan count was 3,160 and flocks of people, including many photographers headed out to see the sight.

Arnold McBay's "Follow" Opens at St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre

Relish Elgin — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Arnold McBay's exhibit, "Follow" opened at the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre on Saturday March 12. McBay was on hand to chat with attendees at the opening reception. He noted that he was enjoying a return to St. Thomas as he had worked at the Elgin County Pioneer Museum when it was housed in the Duncombe House, and had lived just around the corner from the art centre.

In the artist's statement for "Follow" McBay says, "my artwork is focused on a dual path of intent; an examination of the senses using archetypal forms and symbols fused with organic substances and processes, and a consideration of the subjectivity of individual and collective memory."

The exhibit space is filled with many of McBay's recent drawings on paper and panel, most of them large-scale, and also with his found object sculptural works and assemblage. The sculptures vary in format and materials. The viewer first becomes intrigued with the whole collection, and then is drawn into each in turn. The pieces are likely to bring to mind finds from your own explorations.

Laura Woermke, exhibit curator, notes that the timing for the exhibit is excellent, coming as it does, just before the March break art classes for children. The sculpture wall is one that children will find intriguing. She plans to use the exhibit as a starting point for the children's own imaginative creations, based on McBay's use of found objects inset into tiny spaces within the larger piece.

Above, Laura Woermke and Arnold McBay.

Arnold McBay's exhibit continues until May 5, along with "Recent Acquisitions" in the Timken Gallery. To find out more about Arnold McBay, visit http://www.aureolestudios.com/.

Mae Moore Homecoming at Port Stanley Festival Theatre

Relish Elgin — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Mae Moore brought her soulful blend of folk, rock and jazz to the Port Stanley Festival Theatre on the evening of Saturday March 12. Though Mae left Port Stanley for Vancouver in 1979, many audience members were friends from the years she spent locally, and were thrilled to see and hear her again. Her "from-the-heart" song-writing and personable stage presentation created a cozy, intimate musical evening as she drew in old friends, long-time fans and those new to her music.

Above Mae Moore; bottom right - Mae with special guest Blair Heddle.

Juno Award Winner Stephen Fearing wraps up the Winter Music Series on April 2. Call the box office at 519-872-4354 for tickets.

Warm-Up for St. Paddy's with the Sheridan Band

Relish Elgin — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The Sheridan Band got the crowd warmed up for St. Paddy's on Friday evening at The Princess Ave Playhouse in St. Thomas. They donned their St. Paddy's day green shirts and kilts in honour of the holiday, and had the house clapping to celtic-flavoured tunes, traditional and new.

Above: Sheridan Band Members - Heather, Chris, Jeff, Rob and Andy.

A Night on Broadway with Aylmer & Area Community Band & Choir

Relish Elgin — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Friends and neighbours packed the Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre Saturday evening to be treated to a "Night on Broadway". The Aylmer & Area Community Band and Choir presented selected songs from Broadway musicals of the last several decades under the direction of Dave Dykeman. MC Katherine Thompson provided enlightening and humorous anecdotes as intro to each song or medley performed. Local favourites Don Durkee on sax and Tom Stark on keyboard rounded out the evening with entertainment before the show and during intermission.

Tom Starks on keyboard and Don Durkee on sax.

Aylmer and Area Community Band.

Aylmer and Area Community Choir.

Choir member and Choir Director Dave Dykeman.

MC Katherine Thompson.

Portside Gallery Annual Miniature Show Opening

Relish Elgin — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The popular Portside Gallery Miniature Art Show & Sale celebrated its 9^th edition with a busy opening reception on Sunday February 6^th. Forty-eight area artists contributed 120 pieces which showcase a myriad of talent and the ability to interpret it in miniature format. The show continues throughout February at 187 ½ Main Street, Port Stanley. For more information about Portside, visit http://cuttingpromotions.com/.

Several artists were on hand to chat and help out with the Miniature Show opening, including Heather Keating (top row, right); S'ine Maule (2nd row left), Betty Burrell (2nd row right) and Susan Shurish (bottom row).

Matthew and the Birds at STEPAC

Relish Elgin — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Matthew and the Birds brought their jazz / alterntive sounds to the St. Thomas Public Art Centre on Saturday evening. Booking agent Michelle Fournier of Centrepiece Marketing introduced the band and noted that they have been short-listed for CHRW's Local Album of the Year.

What a talented, versatile group of young musicians! Their sound is upbeat, unique and appealing to a wide audience. They give a definite impression that their creativity will continue to lead them in new and interesting directions in future years.

The band members include Matthew Ariarathnam, Sophia Smith, Ben Bandosz and Parker Booth. Their album, "Remnants of What We Reminisced" is available at several outlets including Maestro Music on Talbot St in St. Thomas. Find out more at www.myspace.com/matthewandthebirdsband.

"Wartime", an exhibt by Todd Tremeer opened at STEPAC on Jan 15, 2011

Relish Elgin — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

"Wartime", an exhibit by Todd Tremeer opened at the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre on January 15.

The "Wartime" title may deter some from stopping in to see this exhibit, so the first thing that should be noted is that the works on display do not include overtly horrible or graphic depictions of war. As the artist notes in his introductory statement:

My "history paintings" strategically fall short of the grand narrative tradition but are instead little narratives that play with history and recall war's representation via film and other pictures, toys and models. Most urgently, by representing the constructiveness of history, I allegorically suggest how our current military actions around the world may be "represented" in the future.

From a visual viewpoint, Tremeer's exhibit is, in fact, both diverse and beautiful. Tremeer is an accomplished artist with an extensive background in visual art and historical studies and art teaching. As the 2007 recipient of the Joseph Plaskett Award, he spent most of the next year museum-going and painting in Europe. The work and thought that Tremeer has put into developing his artistic talent and knowledge of his subjects and media (most often watercolour) are obvious - something both artists and art lovers will appreciate.

The works in the exhibit also invite interaction and reaction that will differ depending upon your own personal experiences and those of the people who accompany you as you view Tremeer's art. Individual responses may be related to childhood memories of playing with military figurines; interest in military history and themes such as military camaraderie, deception, training, strategy; your own thoughts on war; books you have read or movies you have seen; museums you have visited or artefacts you have observed. On hand for the exhibition's opening, Tremeer seemed to take a sincere interest in the comments, memories or stories his work elicited in others.

The exhibit is one that lingers in the mind, inviting further reflection and dialogue. The artist noted the following in a 2008 interview:

Today, one Canadian soldier of the First World War remains [that soldier has passed away since the interview] and the ranks of the Second World War veterans are thinning. For the rest of us these events are second-hand or distant experiences known only through the kinds of source material I have used in my work (ie. artefacts, still and moving pictures, models, etc.) It would be pretentious and naïve for me to think that I could capture the complexities of the current war in Afghanistan or change the war's outcome through painting. Allegorical history painting might, however, encourage new dialogues about war. (From a series of 2008 interviews with Maura Broadhurst, Curator of the Latcham Gallery in Stouffville, Ontario)

Sarajevo, watercolour, gouache and pencil on 2 papers, 35 x 110 cm. 2007

En Garde, ink wash, gouache and pencil on blue paper, 36 x 50 cm. 2008
Tank, ink wash and gouache on aged paper, 35 x 50 cm. 2008

"Wartime" runs at The St. Thomas-Elgin Art Centre until March 5, 2011. Learn more about Todd Tremeer at wwwtodd.tremeer.com.

First Annual Bridal Expo at CASO Station, Jan 16

Relish Elgin — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The CASO Station was transformed into an elegant bridal expo on Sunday January 16. Photographers, florists, cake designers, financial advisors, make-up artists and other businesses showcased the services available for wedding planning.

Bottom: Ashley Mason and Emily Dees of Simply White, present their event and decorating services (www.simplywhiteweddings.ca).

Art Gallery of Lambeth Vibrant Addition to Local Art Scene

Relish Elgin — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The Art Gallery of Lambeth opened on December 4^th, 2010. The opening was a gala event, and the gallery was abuzz with a capacity crowd of enthusiastic supporters and art lovers. Unable to attend that opening, I was looking forward to my first visit to the new gallery in early January – I wasn't disappointed.

Nine gallery members have come together to promote art appreciation and education and to provide affordable teaching and display space to area artists. Having had the opportunity, over the past few years, to meet and chat with all but one of the member artists, I have been impressed with the energy, creativity, dedication to their art, and sense of fun of each one. Their combined effort is sure to bring some vibrancy to the local art scene in upcoming years.

The members are dedicated to keeping the exhibit fresh, and to changing the works monthly. The current hanging is a delight. It features textile artist Vivian Tserotas, with several of her intriguing works threaded throughout the exhibit. Also included is the work of some of the associate artists. Consideration has been given to creating a nice flow of work with a pleasing rhythm of texture, technique and colour.

The gallery has a community focus and will offer community events and workshops for adults and young learners. Planned for the upcoming months are workshops such as "Clay & Clay Reliefs" and "Fiber, Felting & Spinning" with Catherine Craig; a variety of "Textile Art" and "Print-Making" courses with Vivian Tserotas, and "Yes You Can Draw" and "Mixed Media Madness" with Robin Baratta.

The AGL location seems like a good one for both exhibition and community involvement. The artists are from the London and Elgin County areas and this location places them in a spot convenient to artists and those interested in taking classes or visiting the gallery to see the latest exhibit.

A portion of the gallery is devoted to a nice selection of gift items, making it a perfect place to scout out cards and gifts for the next birthday or other occasion.

Watch for upcoming exhibits like "Reds" in February, "Minis" in March and more to be announced as the year progresses.

The artists of the AGL include Rose Klein, Annette Martin, June-Anne Reid, Sandra England, Vivian Tserotas, Catherine Craig, Brenda Colley, Robin Baratta and Bob Reid. It's located at 2454 Main St., Unit #6 in Lambeth and hours are Tues – Sat 10am – 6pm & Sun 12 - 4pm. For more information, call 519-652-5556 or visit www.artgalleryoflambeth.com.

Above, scenes from the current exhibit, and June-Anne Reid, one of the nine Art Gallery of Lambeth members.

New Years Levees Bring in 2011

Relish Elgin — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The New Year Levee is a tradition in many communities across Canada. Elgin County joins in with January 1st events hosted by several organizations.

In the 1600's King Louis XIV received male subjects just after rising ("Levee du Soleil" or "Rising of the Sun"). Through the centuries the levee became mainly a New Year's Day event, held by the sovereign, government or military. The observance is now almost solely a Canadian tradition, upheld by many organizations as an opportunity to exchange New Year's greetings, and enjoy refreshments, including "moose milk" (usually egg nog, ice-cream and rum).

The Elgin Regiment is one of many Canadian Forces units and headquarters across the country which greet military and civilian guests starting with a breakfast on New Year's morning, and with their own traditional toast to the New Year.

Above, Deputy Commanding Officer Scott Smith and RSM Howard McInnis toast the New Year. Below (left) Linda Rokeby makes and serves up the popular clam chowder enjoyed at the Aylmer Legion; below (right) visitors to the Knights of Columbus hall in St. Thomas were greeted by Daniel Muill, Richard Beachey, Tim Buchanan (Grand Knight) and Dave Elford.