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To say that Almonte Celtfest 2018 was a success would definitely be an understatement, and the organizers couldn’t be prouder. The weather gods were definitely on our side this year as we welcomed over 9,000 guests to Celtfest over the three-day weekend, making this a record year.
We have a few groups to thank and we’d like to start out by thanking our sponsors. Without our sponsors and supporters, Celtfest would not be what it is today. So thank you sponsors — you are an incredible group of businesses and entrepreneurs who continue to have faith in Celtfest weekend, and what it brings to our community. Second, we’d like to thank our guests. Thank you for supporting the weekend, showing the musicians your love, and continuously showing up year after year. It means so much to the Celtfest Board that we are able to organize this weekend for you, entertain you, and hopefully leave you on Sunday with a feeling of “now that was the best damn weekend!” Thirdly, we’d like to sincerely thank our volunteers. Your expertise, the generosity of your time and your overall kindness is so appreciated. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Now, I’d like to address the Board of Directors. This was my first year on the Board, after spotting a call-to-action last year on Facebook. You see, I attended Celtfest last year for only the second time, had “the best damn weekend” even in the rain, won the gift basket (which was an incredible value), and while a little soggy, hit Sunday with that feeling that I spoke about above. So I decided to attend the Annual General Meeting to see if perhaps I might be able to participate and give back to our community. And the rest is history, as they say. I joined as the Director of Promotions. Did I know what I was doing? No. Were there times when I felt like I might be flying by the seat of my pants? Yes. And that’s ok! It’s actually great. Trying something new that you’ve never done before can be both scary and exciting. But I joined an incredible group of individuals who supported, guided, befriended, and rallied. And I thank them immensely.
Looking towards 2019, the Celtfest Board of Directors is recruiting! We are looking for new Board Members to join us in making Celtfest 2019 the next record year. Open positions include: Chair/Co-Chair, Director of Sponsorship, Director of Finance and Site Manager.
We will be holding the Celtfest 2019 Annual General Meeting at 7pm on September, 11 at the Almonte Old Town Hall, and we welcome and encourage you to come out, see what we are about, talk to Board members, and sign up for consideration. We would love to see you, and we would be happy to tell you what’s in store for the coming year. Plans are already in the works!
Check the Celtfest Facebook page for further details. We’d love to see you, and we’d love to have you join our team
I can tell you from personal experience, it was one of the best things I’ve done in a long while!
The Studio Theatre is a fully accessible 197-seat venue known for its great acoustics and intimate atmosphere. It’s also the only 100% volunteer-run theatre in Perth! We currently need volunteers for front-of-house, plus actors, stage crew, set designers and builders, and Communications/Advertising/Sponsorship people. Pictured are just some of the wonderful folks who work behind (and in front of) the scenes at the Studio Theatre. For details visit <studiotheatreperth.com>, email <volunteers@studiotheatreperth.com>, or call 326–1976.
This past spring, the Legion Branch 192 in Carleton Place was honoured to invite Mayor Louis Antanakos and the Town Council of Carleton Place to join them for their Grand Re-Opening.
For over 70 years the CP Legion has been a focal point in the community, serving veterans and their families in need, providing a social and community outlet, and supporting kids’ sports and other community organizations.
Legion Branch 192, like many, has been struggling to survive as they deal with the expense of maintaining an older building, declining membership, and a basic misunderstanding of a Legion’s role in the community. In 2015, the branch was over $15,000 in debt and the future looked grim. The Legion’s only revenue comes from the profits of hall rental and bar sales, as well as any private donations. Key Legion members made a plea to the community and to their own membership, found younger veterans in the area to join, and fought to keep the doors open. As a result, over $15,000 was raised, the debts were paid off, and they’ve carried on trying to move forward every month since.
To ensure continued success, the branch executive developed a plan to fix old and broken infrastructure and make the Legion more appealing for rental and usage. The list of things needing to be done seemed insurmountable: a new heating and cooling system, electrical upgrade and LED light installation, replacement of disintegrated flooring tiles, new hand railings inside and out, upgrade of bathroom plumbing and sink counters. The whole building was sub-code.
Legion president Peter Schaefer was introduced to Kimberly Kostuch of KKI Designs Co., an interior design company in business for over twelve years that specializes in everything from custom homes to renovations and commercial spaces. The Legion then approached local businesses, informing them about what the organization does in the community, then straight up asked for help. Well, they answered! Local businesses did whatever they could to help and for over a year KKI Designs donated her time and energy to design, source and manage the renovation. Fifteen businesses helped out, and all renovations were done while the Legion was still open, which was no small feat! Doors closed for only two weeks to put new floors in, and otherwise the Legion and the businesses worked around events, volunteer availabilities and contractor availabilities in pure can-do spirit.
As the Legion is such a community-based organization, it was thought important to have that aspect represented. A very talented 14-year-old artist by the name of Brooklyn Kentfield was discovered when she won the Carleton Place Hospital Foundation Card Contest. She was commissioned to sketch nine amazing pieces of art that will be displayed in the main hall.
As a result of the completed renovations, the Legion will become a more viable rental space within the community. It will be able to generate the revenue it needs to continue to operate and give back to those it vows to serve. For more information or to enquire about booking the space, call 257–1727 or find Legion Branch 192 on Facebook.
You may not have heard of this Sault Ste. Marie native, but once you hear Ottawa-based Renée Landry sing, you are sure to become a fan. Her powerhouse blues vocals and fiery stage presence have been compared to legendary artists such as Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald and Amy Winehouse, and will keep you enthralled and asking for more. Renée brings with her a six-piece band of Ottawa’s hottest soul and jazz musicians playing keyboard, guitar, electric bass, trumpet, saxophone, flute and drums. The building will resonate with fantastic sounds from eras gone by.
Along with covers of classic jazz and Motown tunes, Ms Landry will showcase original works from her previous album and soon-to-be released recordings. Staying close to the Ottawa music scene, this classically trained musician, who received an Honours Bachelor of Music in Jazz Vocal Performance from Carleton University, has performed at numerous events and venues in and around Ottawa. Some of these include The Rainbow, Options Jazz Lounge, and Live! On Elgin where she débuted her Amy Winehouse tribute show to sold-out audiences. She has also performed at RBC Bluesfest and the NAC Fourth Stage.
Ms Landry has recorded two albums to date on her independent label. The first, 2016’s Chin Up, shows her versatility with a focus on Motown, jazz, doo-wop and the blues, with a nice modern twist. Her second EP, A Christmas Night, is inspired by holiday classics but comprises entirely new and original music written by Renée (with arrangements by Richard Page and Clayton Connell). Renée will be selling her recordings on the night of her show, so be sure to bring some cash because once you hear her sound you’ll be hooked.
She even gives lessons (group or individual) that teach all aspects of the art, including proper breathing, song selection, ear training, theory and performance coaching. This young woman is the whole package, and The Station Theatre is thrilled to have her for a one-night performance. You can get more information about this versatile songstress and hear some of her music at <reneelandryofficial.com>. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this powerful and talented performer in a wonderfully intimate performance space.
Landry performs at The Station Theatre on Friday, September 28 starting at 8pm. This time around the theatre is trying something a little different. Based on the belief that arts should be accessible to everyone, and especially young people, student tickets are now being made available for the music series, and there will also be a lower adult ticket price. Tickets for this show are $25 for adults and $15 for students (with ID), all-in. They can be purchased with cash at Special Greetings (8 Russell Street E. in Smiths Falls), by credit card at <smithsfallstheatre.com> or by phone at 283–0300. If tickets are still available the day of the show, they will be on sale, cash only, a half-hour before the show starts.
Frankville’s AOG Gallery could be described as a private collection of contemporary art complete with grounds dotted with a variety of sculptures. It could be, but that in no way does it justice or describes the experience you will enjoy when you visit. It is a spectacular reminder that art is where you find it and is an integral part of our culture, both urban and rural.
AOG is the gallery in the country. The countryside setting is idyllic, warm and inviting, perfect for the relaxed enjoyment of the art works on display. The collection includes paintings, photography, indoor and outdoor sculptures and land art. The works range from whimsical to thought-provoking, and many evoke historic skills and craftsmanship. All of this is waiting for the public to discover as the gallery takes part in the Canada-wide celebration of Culture Days on the last weekend of September.Owner Bill Gibbons describes himself as an art enthusiast; in fact that’s what his business card for the gallery says. The collection reflects his taste in art, which is quite straightforward: “I have to like it and it has to be interesting.” He only buys directly from galleries and artists, which reflects his succinct attitude towards art. “Art is an important part of culture. If we’re going to have artists, someone has to buy the art and I’m fortunate enough to be able to.” The inspiration for the gallery and Bill’s support of the arts was his father. “He collected art to hang on the wall and enjoy”. The AOG in the gallery name are his dad’s initials.The gallery is housed in an airy, open concept two-storey building, with generous french doors opening onto the grounds. A number of artists’ and sculptors’ works are featured. Alluring and enticing in their structure, many of them move, resonate and produce a variety of tones and music. They most definitely hold an appeal to the inner child in adults, and hold a fascination for younger visitors. The space seems alive.
The special guest artist is John Eaton, a self-described visual poet with a studio gallery near Wakefield, Quebec. His work is inspired by the natural forces that surround us — water, air, fire and earth — and how they relate to humans and animals. Movement, volume and rhythm are all qualities particular to Eaton’s work. “Sensual, voluptuous, luminous, and palpable, yet discreet and sober” is one description of the complexity of his creations.
Stepping through the french doors you are greeted with the land art section of your tour. You were wondering about that weren’t you? Two pieces created by John Shaw-Rimmington showcase the extraordinary craftsmanship and skill of the dry stonewall mason. Last year’s installation is titled the Tilting Garden (once you see it you will understand), and this year’s effort is nothing short of a dry stonewall conversation pit, which is unbelievably comfortable. You will be stunned by the craftsmanship, guaranteed.
Elsewhere around the grounds can be found such exquisitries as two mesmerizing ball sculptures, a large stork made with soft Zimbabwean stone, a mirror sculpture, a photographic display on an outbuilding’s wall, folk art and more multidimensional whimsical sculptures.
Admission is free throughout the weekend. Donations to Innocence Canada, a non-profit group with a mandate to exonerate wrongfully convicted individuals, are appreciated.
AOG Gallery is located at 47 Leacock Road in Frankville, Ontario, next to Gibbons Maple Farm. Culture Days runs on Friday, September 28 from 3–7pm, Saturday the 29th from 10am to 4pm, and Sunday the 30th from 10am to 4pm. For directions or more details, visit <aoggallery.ca>.
I was recently invited by the Mississippi Mudds of Carleton Place to attend a rehearsal for their latest offering, Arsenic and Old Lace.
I was surprised at first, as most of the productions I’ve reviewed in New York claim to be “show-ready”, when they really ought to have another few years in rehearsal (or be chucked into the bin altogether). The upfront honesty of the Mudds still being “in rehearsal” caught me, albeit charmingly, off-guard.
Those who know me or my column will know that I don’t pull any punches, even with a show that is as close to me as this one. This old warhorse of a farce has quite the name to it, thanks in no small part to the Cary Grant movie that is based upon it. In essence, the show revolves around the fact that the Brewster family is a group of homicidal lunatics with no clear moral compass whatsoever.We’re told of the sordid family history on multiple occasions (just in case you didn’t catch it the first or even seventh time around), but throughout the show that history, and the consequences thereof, bear almost no weight at all, as the crimes committed before and during the show go virtually unpunished by the final curtain call.
I myself have been involved, in one way or another, with many productions, and I can attest that this one is substantively no different than any of the others. The one-note characters, absurdly simple plot and rampant amoral attitudes strewn throughout the show are cleverly hidden betwixt physical comedy and (allegedly) humorous misunderstandings.
I will admit to a chuckle or two escaping from my lips while watching these absurdities play out in front of me, in spite of myself, though mainly because suspension of disbelief for this show is stretched appallingly thin, just to maintain the illusion of entertainment.
I cannot say that this show is one of my favourites; however, this particular production has managed to be my least-hated rendition.
The director and cast have somehow managed to leave few, if any, opportunities for absurdist comedy untouched, doing their bit to make the show (such as it is) as appealing as possible to a wide audience, and they have made great strides in so doing, it would seem.
All in all, there are shows that I would rate higher and recommend more than this one; however, of all the unfortunate productions of the unfortunate show that is Arsenic and Old Lace I have ever had the misfortune of experiencing, I haven’t a one that I would place higher on the list than this one.
Should you choose, at your own risk, to see this amusingly-staged debacle for yourself, you can find tickets at <ticketsplease.ca>, by phone at 485–6434, or by emailing <tickets@ticketsplease.ca>. They can also be procured in person from the Visitor’s Centre located at the Matheson House Museum (11 Gore St. East in Perth).
Somewhat astoundingly, this production has been scheduled for six performances, on September 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 7:30pm, and on September 23 and 30 at 2pm, all at the Carleton Place Town Hall auditorium, located at 175 Bridge St. in, aptly, Carleton Place.
Tickets are $22 ($17 for September 23). Should you care to, you can find more details at <mississippimudds.ca>.
Maybe you’ve heard of CFUW’s Perth & District Chapter from their annual Christmas House Tour, or perhaps you know one of their 137 community members. The Canadian Federation of University Women have an interest in nationally and internationally promoting women’s education, participating in public affairs and improving the status of women and girls, all in an atmosphere of friendship and cooperation. It is a great club whose membership is not limited to university graduates — all women are most welcome, regardless of their educational backgrounds.
Starting at 6:30pm on Monday, September 10, the Perth & District Chapter of CFUW is holding its annual Open House at the Canadian Legion Hall, located at 26 Beckwith Street East in Perth. This is an informational evening to welcome potential members prior to the start of their new season. As a follow-up to the Open House, new members are treated to a potluck supper on Monday, September 17.
This is an opportunity to make new friends, share in volunteering and fundraising activities, and participate in study and interest groups such as book clubs, hiking trips, language study and cuisine groups. You could even start a new group! As well, there are very informative monthly meetings with dynamic speakers. You will come away from the meetings with newfound knowledge and a strong sense of sisterhood. Find more information at <cfuwperthanddistrict.wordpress.com>.
Save the Date!
While we’re on the topic of the CFUW, this is a great time to earmark the weekend of December 1 and 2, when the annual CFUW Heritage Perth Christmas House Tour takes place. Plan to make a weekend of it and tour eight beautiful homes, all transformed for the holidays by local designers, in support of literacy and women’s education. Tickets are $30 each, and go on sale as of October 20.
Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) invites families and all interested individuals to participate in a Bee Hotel Workshop on Sunday, September 16 from 10am to 12:30pm at the High Lonesome Nature Reserve.
Care for your garden as nature intended… with the help of useful insects. Bees, wasps and assorted mini-beasts are beneficial both to people and the ecosystem as a whole, for pollination and for natural pest control. They have a symbiotic relationship with other creatures — in other words they play a role in the balance of nature. The diversity of these creatures will fascinate and engage you.
Ontario is home to some 350 species of bees alone, most of which are unaggressive solitary bees that must find narrow cavities, hollow crevices and similar spaces to lay their eggs. Numerous solitary wasps, which pose no threat to gardeners or to children, also use holes like these to build nests. Unfortunately, as is the case with many insects, their numbers are declining, so why not help them out while having some fun making a Bee Hotel that will encourage them and other beneficial bugs to make their home in your backyard!
MMLT works with landowners who love their land and want it to be conserved for future generations. On our MMLT lands, we protect the natural world and our plan is to encourage these insects by constructing Bee Hotels. Why not share this initiative with the community of nature lovers?
At the Bee Hotel Workshop, Dr. Rob Longair will explain the important roles of these insects in the natural world and the distinctive shelters and nesting material that each requires. You will then become creative as you choose from the various blocks, reeds, and other materials to construct, furnish and decorate your very own bug condo that will be stylish while providing a much needed and safe habitat in which useful insects can hibernate, and house eggs and larvae. The Almonte Naismith Men’s Shed is providing the shells for the hotels with MMLT supplying the hotel furnishings.
This workshop is open to adults and children aged 5+. Anyone under 16 must be registered with an adult. Each family or individual registrant will assemble one Bee Hotel. The cost for MMLT members is $40, non-members $50. Pre-registration is required at <mmlt.ca/event/bee-hotel-workshop> and is non-refundable. The workshop will accommodate 25 families or individuals so register early. Bring your lunch and, following the workshop, spend some time exploring some of the 8km of trails on the Reserve. Directions can be found at <mmlt.ca>.
If you have ever struck a tuning fork and held it to a bowl of water, you will recall that the vibrations create a little splash. If so many vibrations come from one tuning fork, you can imagine the extent of the vibrations that come from a complete set of English handbells, and the splash they would create. If you are curious about the effect, you will receive some answers on the morning of Saturday, September 29, when an ap“peal”ing event will be taking place at the Perth Farmers’ Market in the Tay Basin. The St. Paul’s Handbell Choir, under the direction of Ann MacMahon, will be returning by popular demand to delight and entertain patrons of the ever-popular Farmers’ Market.
The presentation will begin at 10am and will feature a mixture of new selections and old favourites such as Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World, Burt Bacharach’s Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, Glenn Miller’s Moonlight Serenade, and Gershwin favourites. The addition of a complete set of handchimes creates an almost orchestral sound.
What a grand way to spend a fall morning! If you have never heard handbells, this is your opportunity as twelve dedicated musicians transport your mind and spirit with each selection.
The event is held rain or shine, but a little Scottish mist should not deter the faint of heart as the show will be held inside the Crystal Palace.
If you miss this opportunity, you can also catch performances by the St. Paul’s Handbell Choir on November 18 in the sanctuary at St. Paul’s Church in Perth, and on December 16 at the service of Nine Lessons in Carols at St. James’ Church in Perth.
Back by popular demand, cellist Paul Marleyn and pianist Frédéric Lacroix will be performing at the MERA Schoolhouse on Sunday, September 9 at 2pm. This is the first of three Blue Jeans Classical Music series, with the Trifecta Trio playing on October 14, and American pianist Mark Valenti on November 11.
After hearing Marleyn and Lacroix perform last year, many audience members raved about their performance, their mastery of their individual instruments and their casual, informative comments about the music, their instruments and the composers. Some listeners claim it was the best classical performance they had ever heard. High praise, indeed.
As well as teaching their individual instruments at the University of Ottawa music department, both Paul and Frédéric perform solo and with other players extensively in the Ottawa area. This after having brilliant careers on stages around the world with acclaimed orchestras and fellow musicians.
As always, there will be refreshments available at the Wizards’ Café before the performance and at intermission.
Tickets are $25, plus convenience fee, and can be purchased in person at Tickets Please in the Visitors’ Centre of the Matheson House Museum (11 Gore St E. in Perth). They can be ordered for pickup at the door, by telephone at 485–6434 or online at <ticketsplease.ca>. Tickets at the door are $28, and students 16 and under are free.
Readers of this column already know that Weetbix does not write reviews or ads; however, a disclaimer is, in any case, necessary. We do not claim impartiality and have a declared policy of only writing about what we like. That said, Café Whim is not only a surprise, it is on a very short list of “just go there” recommendations. OK, maybe read this first and then go, but going to Smiths Falls now may have a special purpose.
John Montague, 4th Earl of Sandwich, is credited with inventing the sandwich — although there is a long history of bread-enclosed convenience food. And H.D. Renner said, “unless the filling has a very pronounced flavor… it is only high up in the culinary scale that one finds delicacies spread on bread without the coffin-lid which spells death to the flavor.” Well, Dear Readers, the sandwich has been re-invented by Brian Paquette and can be enjoyed at Café Whim. This is a bold and perhaps startling claim, but as any chef or gourmet knows, there is more to cooking than rote assembly of ingredients — process and technique determine the outcome as much as ingredients.
Much of food’s appeal is visual and textural, and both contribute to its sensory experience. Unfortunately, in Weetabix’s opinion, the former gets more attention than the latter and often results in silliness like edible flowers added as a last-minute distraction from the mundane, or a token sprig of arugula (which might, it should be said, add some flavour). Texture is a different matter as it is a harder problem both as to modification and integration. It is the result of the interactions between ingredients and the process by which they are brought to the table as a finished dish. For a quick and simple example consider a traditional grilled cheese sandwich. It is in the realm of texture where Paquette has departed from tradition and elevated the sandwich to a new level, incorporating “crunchissima” — a new feature that is achieved by a slight but very important modification in the process by which bread and other ingredients are combined to present you (the diner) with a significant problem of selection from a long list of choices.
So, what is crunchissima and how is it achieved? The abomination know as white bread is useful as a foil for this argument (and also as an excellent material to assist in plumbing repairs or for making emergency earplugs). It can be compressed but ultimately yields little other than a flexible, tasteless and calorie-laden substrate for other ingredients, and the outer layer of such a sandwich should be viewed only as packaging material. Bread, however, has many other incarnations and can achieve flavour and textural interest in a variety of ways — including the abrupt textural and flavour changes that baking creates in the outer parts of the loaf. Much of the enjoyment of breads relates to the contrast between the inner and outer parts, and crust with crunch is the key. Indeed the enjoyment of a real baguette can be compromised by the argument about who gets the heel — the only solution to which is to eat alone. And so, what is crunchissima, how is it achieved, and will Weetabix get to the point? (Yes.)
Café Whim’s sandwiches are the result of a unique process that uses ciabatta bread as the base. It is served hot-pressed as both the carrier and flavour base for a wide and imaginative range of carefully chosen ingredients. The menu presentation is both varied and imaginative and lists over thirty distinct and whimsically named combinations, ranging from classical sounding groupings to edgy mixtures with cautionary symbols warning of aggressive spicing (note that on a scale of not to hot, nothing here comes close to the warning seen in Thai restaurants). The basic ingredients speak for themselves, descriptions are honest, and condiments truly enhance the combinations — the sauces and ingredients work together and display a virtuoso understanding of flavour interactions.
True ingredient synergy as opposed to simply adding flavours and hoping for a good outcome is the mark of a skilled chef. Brian Paquette is a master of the sandwich form. And crunchissima, which is the result of a special step added to the assembly process, elevates the end result to a uniquely satisfying product by increasing the range of the textural experience. So before returning to the main subject, we can define crunchissima as the combination of textural attributes that enhance crunch in the same way as sharp focus can enhance a photo. As for how it is achieved, start with par-baked bread and complete the baking in the hot sandwich press; serve very hot and use a knife to cut the sandwich into manageable pieces before the inevitable redistribution of moisture. The overall experience is extraordinary!
Owner-chef Brian Paquette started his restaurant career when he was sixteen and worked as a cook at Café Wim in Ottawa. A brief digression into history is in order as the namesake establishment actually contributed more than its name. When Brian and his wife Vanessa decided to open the restaurant, he sought to recreate some of the vibe of the old café and incorporated a number of elements into the design of the space and overall style of the operation. A great deal of thought went into the ambience as well as the food, and in homage to his old mentor Willem (Wim) Tenholder, the establishment was named Café Whim. Those of us (including Weetabix) who remember the old café on Sussex will recognize some of the elements that carry over, but the menu at Café Whim is the creation of Paquette (who as the youngest of nine children grew up with, as he described it, “creative sandwiches”). Following his seven years at Café Wim he moved through a number of restaurants in Ottawa and then moved to Montreal for a seventeen-year stint in the martial arts field. Wanting something quieter, he and his family relocated to Smiths Falls and just over a year ago he opened Café Whim.
The menu provides, as noted, a large selection of sandwiches — a sampling on two visits convinces Weetabix that you cannot go wrong here but there is a significant risk of overindulgence. More so if you continue into dessert land, but the carrot cake offers both temptation and nutritional excellence (perhaps a meal in itself). There is also a good selection of craft beers to go with the food and a pleasant and comfortable room. Easy to find but just off the main street, Café Whim merits and rewards a trip to Smiths Falls. Menus and details can be found at <cafewhim.ca>.
After many months of planning, major renovations and a half-million-dollar investment in Perth’s St. Paul’s United Church Creative Community HUB project, the council and congregation are pleased to share the results with the community.
An open house is planned for Saturday, September 15 from 1–4pm, and a celebratory worship service will take place on Sunday, September 16 at 10am.
Numerous changes have taken place, with a goal of making St. Paul’s a more accessibly friendly church. The entrance off D’Arcy Street has been upgraded, including a self-operated three level lift, for those with mobility issues to enter and have easy access to the sanctuary, the downstairs hall, the administrative offices and a new universal washroom. In the sanctuary, a new sound system has been installed with hearing assist devices available. A 12'x12' screen will help with better visuals during worship services and other events. To help with climate comfort, air conditioning is in place.
In addition to these upgrades, the organ has been refurbished, the stained glass windows have been repaired (including opening up a portion of the upper stained glass windows to allow natural light in), the sanctuary has been painted, and three new washrooms have been added. Reverend Gerry Kerr says: “these upgrades to St. Paul’s will enhance our ability to grow into our own sense of identity as a spiritual hub in the community for creativity, discovery and growth.”
Bob Sneyd, chair of the project, adds: “re-imagining and re-designing this heritage space — enhanced by state-of-the-art audio and visual technologies — provides a versatile venue for a wide range of expression through worship, the performing arts, as well as a forum for educational pursuits and public discourse.”
Everyone is welcome on Saturday, September 15 from 1–4pm for guided tours and refreshments. A special Opening Ceremony and Musical Performance produced by Brad Mills will take place from 2–3pm.
Then on Sunday, September 16 there will be a 10am service in the renovated sanctuary, for all those wishing to worship and experience the benefits of the significant enhancements to St. Paul’s Church.
For further information please contact Kirk Lidbetter at <34gore@sympatico.ca> or 264–6360, or phone St. Paul’s at 267–2973. For more information about St. Paul’s Creative Community Hub, please visit <stpaulsperth.ca>.
St. James the Apostle Anglican Church in Perth will be holding a special Choral Evensong on the afternoon of Sunday, September 23 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Healey Willan, Canada’s most famous church music composer. At 3:45pm, before the service starts, Peter Woodwark (St. James’ Music Director) will play three of Willan’s preludes, based on well-known hymn tunes. The service used is Evening Prayer from the Book of Common Prayer and includes prayers, scripture readings and canticles. The choir will sing, as an anthem, Willan’s three Marion Motets: Rise Up My Love, I Beheld Her, and Fair in Face. All the hymns will have a Willan connection and Peter will play a postlude, followed by a reception.
James Healey Willan was born in England in 1880 and died in Toronto in 1968. He began his musical training at a Choir School in Eastbourne and, at the age of 15, began working as an organist and choirmaster in London-area churches. He became a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists in 1899. Willan emigrated to Canada in 1913 and became organist-choirmaster of Toronto’s largest Anglican church, St. Paul’s on Bloor Street. He was already receiving royalties as a church music composer, and this allowed him to leave St. Paul’s in 1921 and become precentor of the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, where he remained until his death. Under Willan, St. Mary Magdalene’s became a North American mecca for choral and Anglican church musicians. Willan is best known for his religious music, but composed more than 800 works including operas, symphonies, chamber music, a concerto, and pieces for band, orchestra, organ, and piano.
In 1953, Willan was commissioned to write an anthem for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The resulting piece, O Lord Our Governour, continues to be performed frequently. He received the Order of Canada in 1967. It was not lost on young Canadian musicians that Willan was able to make his livelihood as a composer, and that being a composer was something to which they might realistically aspire.
All are welcome at this beautiful service, which starts at 4pm after the prelude. Choral Evensong usually takes place once a month through the fall and winter, often on the 4th Sunday of the month. St. James Church is located on the corner of Drummond and Harvey Streets in Perth. For details, contact the church office at 267–1163 or check <stjamesperth>.
September is singing time, as community choirs throughout the area start their fall rehearsals and begin gearing up towards holiday performances. If you’re ready to expand your performance venues beyond the shower and car, here are a few for you to choose from…
Goulbourn Male ChorusStarts New Season
The Goulbourn Male Chorus has been entertaining patrons in the west end of Ottawa and the Valley for a number of years through two annual concerts and appearances at events and seniors’ homes. Audiences love the deep rich tones and harmony of the all-male chorus, and the variety of music put together by musical director Scott Auchinleck.
As the chorus embarks on its new season it welcomes all newcomers and is looking for male singers in all vocal ranges, but in particular the chorus would like to hear from tenors! While being able to sight read music is an asset, it is not a requirement, and coaching is provided to assist with understanding the music. The GMC rehearses every Tuesday evening in the beautiful Trinity Presbyterian Church on Richardson Side Road in Kanata at 7pm. The first rehearsal for this season is on Tuesday, September 11, and they guarantee you will be made most welcome. Give them a try! Learn more at <goulbournmalechorus.com>.
Almonte’s “Workshop Choir”
Did you know that there is a workshop choir in Almonte? This is a group of experienced singers who sing together weekly on Thursday mornings, exploring a variety of music. We are not a performing choir, but just sing for our own enjoyment and to develop our choral skills. To balance our choir we are looking for tenors and basses this fall. Reading music is definitely an asset. For more information, please contact director Cheryl Woods at 256–1874.
Town Singers of Carleton Place
Tuesday, September 4 marks the beginning the Town Singers’ 11th season. Rehearsals run from 7–9pm in St James’ Church Hall at 225 Edmund Street in Carleton Place.
The director for the season is Paul Norris, a Carleton Place resident and recent graduate of Ottawa University with a Bachelor of Music degree. He discovered his love for music at CPHS. While Paul was at Ottawa U., he focused his studies on tuba and volunteered as a brass coach with the OrKidstra program. He also studied choral singing and conducting with Lawrence Ewashko, a well-known Ottawa choral director.
The choir is pleased that Peter Brown is continuing as the accompanist. Peter is a well-known, and busy, jazz pianist and piano teacher.
The choir’s Christmas concert will be held on December 2 and 4 in All Nations Church in Carleton Place. The program will include traditional hymns like Silent Night, modern classical works like Nimrod, and popular works from Disney’s Frozen and the Beatles. There will be a special tribute to honour the late Kristine MacLaren, the founder and director of the choir from its inception until June 2017.
If you would like to sing with them, you are welcome to check them out on September 4. They are a non-auditioned choir whose singers come from all over the county and beyond. A desire to sing and the ability to sing in tune is important. Some skill at reading music is helpful but not a prerequisite. All of their music is available on their website for listening and practising at home. You will be amazed how much you will learn to enhance your music skills. The fees are $40 from September to December. For more information, please contact Liette Carpentier, the current membership coordinator, at <liette57@hotmail.com> or 284–5932.
Almonte’s Valley Voices Choir
Altos and basses (and all other parts)! Almonte’s original community choir is beginning its 17th year and will be starting up again in September. Specifically, Thursday, September 6 at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum.
Do you enjoy singing? Meeting people? You don’t need to know how to read music to have a fun time. Their repertoire spans everything from Liszt to Queen. They meet every Thursday at 7:30pm at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum (using the entrance on Carleton Street).
There are some very exciting things in the works for this year and they’re off to a running start. Now is also the best time to bring your friends, as everyone is learning together. For more information, visit them on Facebook at <ValleyVoicesofAlmonte>.
The Secret History of Soldiers
Historian Tim Cook will speak about his new book The Secret History of Soldiers at 2pm on September 30 at the Almonte Library. His enthusiasm for Canadian history is contagious! Call Mill Street Books at 256–9090 to reserve your seat.
More Mudds Auditions
The Mississippi Mudds of Carleton Place are very excited to present Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado, directed by Mark Piper and with musical direction by Tracy McMillan Ahern. Performances will take place at Carleton Place Town Hall on November 30 and December 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9. Auditions will be held on September 8 from 9:30am to 3pm at CP Arena Boardroom. Rehearsals will be Sundays at 1pm and Wednesdays at 7pm starting on September 12. Please contact producer Barb Dickson at <laubar@sympatico.ca> for an audition time.
The Mudds Junior are also holding auditions for their upcoming production of The Lion King Jr. on Saturday, September 8 from 10:30am to 2:30pm at the Carleton Place Curling Club, which is located at 120 Patterson Crescent in Carleton Place. For more details, please visit <mississippimudds.ca>.
SPARC Community Gathering
On Saturday, September 22 you are invited to join those involved in the performing arts (creators, producers, presenters, and community animators of theatre, dance, music, and media arts) in Almonte and surrounding rural areas for a day of networking, brainstorming, and knowledge sharing! SPARC (Supporting Performing Arts in Rural and Remote Communities) is a network whose purpose is to help ignite and sustain the performing arts in rural and remote communities across Ontario. The aim of the network is to form connections that will lead to discussion, resource and knowledge sharing, and collaboration across disciplines and geography.
This day will provide an opportunity to gather and learn more about each other, reflect on the assets and challenges in your respective communities, brainstorm ways to support each others’ initiatives through new collaborations, and participate in workshops relevant to performing arts presentation. This gathering will take place at the Almonte Old Town Hall. For more information or to RSVP please email Rebecca at <rebecca@sparcperformingarts.com>.
Perth Healing Forest Memorial Unveiling
Everyone is invited to join the Healing Forest committee and special guests on September 30 for the unveiling of Perth’s Healing Forest Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to the children who were taken away to Residential School and the many children who did not make it home to their families. It also remembers the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people. This permanent monument will stand as part of the community’s commitment to Reconciliation.
In January 2017, two speakers at the Table Community Food Centre captivated many of their listeners: Patricia Stirbys (Cowessess First Nation, Saskatchewan) and Peter Croal (Geologist with the Canadian International Development Agency) met at a walk to remember Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. From this serendipitous encounter emerged the idea for the creation of a lasting memorial, The Healing Forest.
At first the plan was to establish a single forest in Canada where people could gather in ceremony to honour and remember, but as the project evolved, Patricia and Peter promoted the creation of multiple Healing Forests across the country. Over the last 18 months a site was found, a rock chosen and a plaque designed using the Healing Forest symbol with wording in both Anishinaabemowin and English.
The project received community and municipal support and the site is now ready for dedication. The ceremony will be held in Perth’s Last Duel Park on September 30 at 2pm. Refreshments will be kindly provided by The Table. More information can be found at <nationalhealingforests.com>.
Refresh Your Rules of the Road
The Balderson Women’s Institute are inviting O.P.P. Constable G. Streng to speak at their meeting on Tuesday, October 9 at 7pm. Constable Streng will give a bit of a refresher course on recent rules of the road (including round-abouts, which are becoming more common in this area). Everyone is invited — the meeting will take place at the Drummond Township Hall, which is located at 1920 Drummond Concession 7 in Drummond Centre.
You are invited to join Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) and the family of Joel Byrne for a celebration of his generous donation of the Byrne Big Creek Nature Preserve, now protected in perpetuity.
The formal dedication of the Preserve will take place on Saturday, September 22 at 2pm. After a short ceremony, mingle to reminisce about Joel’s love of all aspects of the natural world. For those interested there will be a short guided walk on one of the wilderness foot paths.
This ecologically significant property was bequeathed to MMLT by Joel Byrne who was a dear friend and long-time supporter of the land trust and the local field naturalists clubs. By entrusting Big Creek to MMLT, Joel fulfilled his dream of protecting forever this special place. You can now share his deep love of this land where he fed the squirrels, chipmunks and birds, roamed the meadow, woods and fen and took his canoe down Big Creek to McCulloch Mud Lake. This beloved bit of wilderness also inspired him to write poetry. His cousins Larry and Jane Choquette feel that Joel’s own words, taken from one of his poems, most aptly express his attachment to Big Creek: “Paradise at the edge of peace and happiness of my days”. What a gift he has given us all.
Byrne Big Creek Nature Preserve is located adjacent to McCulloch Mud Lake, off the Mississippi River near McDonalds Corners. Most of the property is Provincially Significant Wetland contributing marsh, treed swamp and fen habitat. The fen is a regionally uncommon habitat with a wide variety of interesting plant species. This summer, the large meadow was aflutter with an impressive diversity of butterfly and dragonfly species, including the Monarch. The upland hardwood forest is home to a family of barred owls and a pair of fishers, among other creatures.
MMLT is a local charity that works with land owners wishing to save the land they love for future generations. MMLT currently protects eight properties encompassing over 2600 acres.
An RSVP would be appreciated to give organizers an idea of how many might attend the Dedication. An account has been set up with EventBrite for responses or you could contact <lcarisse@mmlt.ca>. As parking is also somewhat limited, carpooling is recommended.
Byrne Big Creek Nature Preserve is located at the bottom of Dalhousie Concession 6, off Watson’s Corners Road in Lanark Highlands.
After an absence of more than three years, Doors Open will return to Smiths Falls this year, taking place on Saturday, September 15 at various locations around the town. The Ontario Heritage Trust works with communities across the province to open the doors, gates and courtyards of their unique and most fascinating cultural sites so that people can explore the stories inside. Doors Open Smiths Falls features several sites of architectural and heritage significance, where residents and tourists alike have the opportunity to visit little-known locations, get behind the scenes at various cultural attractions, and discover hidden gems in their own community.
In addition favourite Doors Open venues from past years, the 2018 event will feature new sites such as the international luxury canal boat company Le Boat headquarters (located in the former Lockmaster’s House at the combined locks), Canopy Growth Corporation (Tweed Inc. — a leading cannabis company located in the former Hershey Chocolate Factory), and Davidson’s Courtyard (a restored industrial structure from the 1890s that once housed the largest commercial bakery in Eastern Ontario).
Other Doors Open sites include:
Heritage House Museum, housed in a Victorian home built by an early mill owner
Rideau Canal Gate Shop, operated by Parks Canada, with lock gates built using 19th century engineering to stand the test of time
Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, housed in a former train station
The Station Theatre, housed in the former Canadian Pacific Railway Station, showcasing live theatre, concerts, and films
Smiths Falls Public Library, one of the earliest Carnegie libraries in Canada, and the only local example of the beaux arts style
Town Hall, including the old stone schoolhouse, where the newly opened Visitor Centre provides a warm welcome to visitors, residents, and businesses alike
Lannin Funeral Home and Reception Centre, one of the oldest stone structures in Smiths Falls
Trinity United Church, with its outstanding stained glass windows and original Gothic design
Rideau Environmental Action League (REAL), incorporating a reuse store, environment centre, and on-site community gardens
Gallipeau Centre, a former Ontario Hospital School, housing businesses, recreational facilities, an 850-seat theatre, housing, and the Two Rivers Commercial Kitchen (an innovative hub for local food producers)
Wood Mausoleum, an impressive 19th-century stone vault, the private burial site of prominent citizen Alexander Wood of the once-famous Frost and Wood Company
St. Francis Masonic Lodge, showcasing the symbolism of the Masonic order and its history in Smiths Falls
Montagu Food and Agricultural Museum, a mid-19th-century stack-wall machine shed housing artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries
In addition to the Doors Open event itself, several sites will feature performances as part of the On the Roll Live Music Series, as well as activities and programming that enable visitors and residents to experience their community’s cultural and heritage attractions in a new way.
For more information on Doors Open in 2018, visit <doorsopenontario.on.ca> or <smithsfalls.ca>, or contact Ingrid Bron at 283–4124 x1127 or <ibron@smithsfalls.ca>.
The West Carleton Arts Society will present their popular annual “Expressions of Art” exhibition and sale on the weekend of October 5–7 at the Carp Agricultural Hall. The vernissage takes place on Friday, October 5 from 7–9pm and features live music, guest speakers and a cash bar, and the show continues on the 6th (8am to 4pm) and 7th (10am to 4pm). Come browse the fine artwork of more than thirty artists from around the region at West Carleton’s premier art show! Talk to the participants, share some refreshments and participate in the viewer’s choice selection. The Carp Agricultural Hall is located at 3790 Carp Road, and the grounds also host the Carp Farmers’ Market on Saturday from 8am to 1pm.
I trust you have put away the white shoes and gloves, it now being after Labour Day, and you are preparing to revisit your closet to make way for the latest fall trends. Of course you are excited about updating your look to reflect the runways of Paris or New York, or at least the sidewalks of our local towns. Let’s get to it then, and see what awaits the fashionistas of the Ottawa Valley.
Colour is our first concern. The faded T-shirts can easily be covered with a polar fleece hoodie, probably best to stick to that lovely shade of ash grey that hides all manner of stain: dirty dog paws, the oil from the chain saw, grass stains from the soccer field. Call them memories of summer. This colour goes well with jeans, and face it, denim is denim, so don’t fuss over the shading. If you want to fancy up the denim look, pair those jeans with a long tunic-length shirt that covers the padding from a summer spent lolling in a deck chair waiting for the humidity to subside.
We are admonished to match our colours to the beauty of fall. Is that the brown of dead oak leaves or the green of moss creeping over the edge of the patio blocks? Neither is particularly attractive; both are reflective of work not done during the summer.
Layering is the go-to for every style: jeans, T-shirts, blouses, loose sweaters can be piled one on the other. This look can be completed with a pullover anorak or at least a rain jacket — one never knows when the rain gods will decide to spit. Stick with navy or black —slimming colours — but a little reflective tape never goes amiss in case you get caught after dark. Don’t be concerned that you will look like the Michelin man on holidays, since practicality has to be considered.
Don’t put those shorts away just yet, as fall always brings a spate of beautiful summer weather we’d like to have had in July. Although the season for shorts is past, it’s a shame not to show off the tan soon to be hidden under long pants. Flaunt it as long as you can. A word of warning: the shorts have to go when the goosebumps make your knees look knobbly.
Sandals will suffice for fall, but not white, you understand. If your Burkies are run down nearly sole-less, you can invest in a fall-toned pair in rich copper. These will take you through to winter, and as long as your teenage daughter doesn’t notice you likely can get by wearing them with socks even. Augment your shoe closet with a sturdy pair of new runners, not so much for running as walking the dog. A pair of those Duck Boots might be a good idea too (see rain warning above). Dress shoes might be appropriate for the one or two occasions we are compelled to look lady-like, but avoid the teeter heels and open toes — your feet will freeze by mid-October. If you wear a lot of good stuff on the upper half of your body and smile a lot, people may not notice your feet, and you can get away with the comfortable low-heeled Tootsies you wore last year.
If your closet “runneth over” it’s time to get rational and lug some stuff off to the Hub. While you’re there check out the stuff others have jettisoned. Here’s the reasoning: if you’d bought a certain item last year, it still would be in good shape and in style, so it’s just fine to buy someone’s cast-off and claim it as your own.
Every outfit deserves bling, which can make even the oldest items look fresh. Get a big scarf, which in my case will end up in a heap in the drawer, but which you might be able to tie quite fetchingly. Find the chunkiest necklace that will hide a bad neckline. Wear both with aplomb! Five pounds of gold chain in a variety of lengths looks lavish and can easily hide that one teensy stain on a shirtfront.
Ladies, a new handbag for a new season! Look for one of those huge bags made from car seat covers or some such recycled material. Just be careful you don’t sit on it the next time you get into your car. Although you will feel ever so virtuous for choosing recycled material, you will always find the fabric has a distinct car odor. Is it dog or stale coffee, or one of those pine dangly things?
You are ready to sashay catwalk-style down the most fashionable of runaways with this good advice at your fingertips. We’ll all admire the ingenuity and flash we are exhibiting with our new wardrobes specially selected to enhance our busy lives.
As we have to transition from summer to fall, it’s best to do it gradually until that one fateful day when the frost is on the pumpkin and you have to haul out the sweaters, pants, and wool socks. Don’t rush the season; enjoy the summer clothes as long as you can. Wear them out so you can invest in a whole new look come next April.
Not to be outdone, gentlemen have a fashion dilemma as well, and we need to take their concerns seriously. It goes like this: “I wore this shirt yesterday. It’ll do, and I don’t need to change these jeans for another few days, right, eh?”
RESERVOIR
From August 24 to September 30, Almonte’s Sivarulrasa Gallery is pleased to present RESERVOIR, a collaborative installation of sound and stone sculpture by Almonte-based stone sculptor Deborah Arnold and Ottawa-based sound installation artist Dipna Horra. In January of 2018, Gallery Director Sanjeev Sivarulrasa introduced the artists to each other and invited them to mount a duo exhibition. Over the ensuing months, the artists came up with the concept for RESERVOIR, a thought-provoking exploration of both emotion and environment, memory and place.
Deborah Arnold has been sculpting stone from her Almonte studio for over twenty years. She continues to work with raw stone, including selected forms of chlorite, alabaster, and marble. Dipna Horra’s work combines visual and media arts and an interest in inventive audio technologies. Her Riverwalk series of works created for RESERVOIR combine salvaged colonial windows with “soundscapes” from Almonte’s Riverwalk — sounds recorded along a section of the Mississippi River that runs through downtown Almonte, as well as sounds of wildlife from the surrounding region. The windows are embedded with audio electronics and hence re-purposed as speakers in the hands of this talented artist.
Everyone is invited to meet the artists at the vernissage on Saturday, September 8 from 3–6pm. For more information about this show and to see available works, please visit <sivarulrasa.com>.
Refreshing Art for September
General Fine Craft in Almonte has two feature exhibitions this month that art lovers will not want to miss.
Until September 9, you can see Fibre & Form, a collection of work by Camella Karijo Rother. Her silk “paintings” consist of small sections of fabric repeated on a black ground, shimmering with colour and pattern. These are in dynamic contrast with her quiet vessel forms made of carded wool, white cotton rope or tan paper cord in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Then from September 12 to October 21 works by two talented gallery artists will be featured in a show entitled Wild Splendor. Painter Robin Hollingdrake depicts nature’s random beauty with lush layers of flora and fauna in acrylic and collage on panel. Ceramic artist Mary Philpott presents her mesmerizing animal sculptures — life-size representations of forest creatures caught at a magical moment in time.
Please come for the opening of Wild Splendor and meet both artists on Sunday, September 16 from 2–4pm. See all gallery artists’ portfolios at <generalfinecraft.com>.
Hit the Back Roads!
Get ready to enjoy the 5th annual North Frontenac Back Roads Studio Tour! This year’s tour takes place on September 29 and 30, and 14 studios will be open from 10am to 4pm each day.
This popular tour provides a great excuse to take an autumn drive through the beautiful northern part of Frontenac County at one of the loveliest times of the year. Located twenty minutes north of Sharbot Lake, ten minutes east of Cloyne/Northbrook and half an hour northwest of Perth, this is a spectacular landscape of hills, lakes and hardwood forests, usually with magnificent fall colours. Artists who love beauty and peace are scattered throughout the area, and this tour is an opportunity to visit many of their unique studios and beautiful properties. The tour brochure and website also give the location of places to stop for a snack, a meal or a washroom break, as well as places to spend the night. Many visitors like to take two days to experience as many stops as possible and to spend the night in one of the local lodges.
The 25 participating artists will be displaying a wide variety of work — paintings, photography, sculpture, furniture, textiles, jewellery and more. Many of the artists have been committed to the tour since its beginning five years ago, but all of them have new work to show to their fans and to new visitors. And there are always a few new artists to check out. The Silent Valley Alpaca farm will be open again, and perhaps there will be a newborn baby alpaca to meet, as there was one year of the tour! Back Forty Artisan Cheese will be serving lunch on their beautiful property on the Mississippi River, and the Shamrock Bakery in Plevna can also provide a delicious lunch or snack. More information, a map and directions can be found at <NorthFrontenacBackRoadsStudioTour.com>. Print brochures for the tour are also widely distributed.
Twenty-four MAG artists are busy getting their studios prepped and ready for this year’s Merrickville Artists Guild MAG Studio Tour and Sale to be held in the village and surrounding countryside on the weekends of September 22 & 23 and September 29 & 30 from 10am–5pm.
What is it about an art piece that makes us fall in love with it? The MAG tour is your opportunity to ask the artist directly about their particular art, how they got to where they are with their work, and the story behind the creation of individual pieces. Getting the story of its creation gives meaning to the art, and makes the piece so much more special.
Many of these artists are nationally or internationally known for their work. Art created by MAG Artists includes pottery, fabric art, letterpress, mixed-media art, painting, sculpture, cold and hot glass, photography, collage, and cast metal.
This year, MAG welcomes two amazing artists to their ranks: jeweller Kenna McCall, and photographer and digital artist Ivy Sinkunas. Not to be missed are returning guest artists Herman Ruhland, Aleatha Aiken-Sherrer and Douglas MacDonald. The Go Figure artists’ group will also be exhibiting in Burritt’s Rapids on the September 22 & 23 weekend of the tour.
Check out the MAG website <mag-artists.ca> for profiles of each artist, images of their art, and the map of the tour. Brochures showing a sample of the artists’ work and their locations are available in most stores in Merrickville, from studio tour artists and during the tour at the MAG FLAG (in the market beside the Christmas Shoppe). Plan your visit to include as many studios as you can.
Everyone is part of the artistic endeavour and art enriches our lives. Come for a visit to historic Merrickville. You’ll be richer for it!
For further information, contact 852–7560 or visit <mag-artists.ca>.
theHumm: The obvious question is, how did you get the name?
Mike McCormick: Well, both McCormick and my middle name Alexander are from my father; Michael I think just sounded nice.
That’s not what I meant…
It’s what you asked. Moving on.
What are the origins of the band?
We started as a radio sketch comedy troupe while students at Queen’s University. We started performing live shows and found that our sketches kind of sucked and that doing sketch comedy in bars was hard. However, our songs went over pretty well so we focused on that.
Why do you think the songs went over well?
Perhaps it was the contrast with the sucky sketches. Perhaps it was because people will accept three guys standing behind microphones singing more readily than if they just talk. But our performance is a little different than most, our songs are very melodic, and we harmonize pretty well with each other. So part of the joke is putting stupid words to pretty music.
So is it a music show or a comedy show?
It’s a comedy show with music. Two great tastes that are better together. Wait that was peanut butter cups. I saw powdered peanut butter in the store yesterday. Is that weird?
Yes.
I thought so. I guess it’s easier to spread.
What are your favourite songs?
I’m quite taken with Solace by Scott Joplin, Nessun dorma by Puccini and Colder Than You by the Waltons.
How about songs by the Arrogant Worms?
That’s hard as the entire catalogue is filled with hit after hit. I still enjoy playing I am Cow, The Last Saskatchewan Pirate and We Are the Beaver. Big Fat Road Manager is one of my favourites because we wrote it out of spite.
Have the Arrogant Worms played in Perth before?
Yes.
Where?
Perth. Your questions suck.
Your answers suck.
You suck!
What venues did you play in Perth? Were they good shows?
We’ve played at the Studio Theatre, in the Legion Hall, in Stewart Park, in a house on Beckwith and at a High School. They were all tremendous shows resulting in joy, laughter and in one case, a dog barked. At the Legion they turned all the lights on as we were playing our last song. I don’t think they wanted an encore.
Actually, Perth has been quite good to the band over the years. I have fond memories of our first performance at Stewart Park because it was the first Worms concert my daughter attended; she would have been three months old. She’s 17 now. Hopefully she’ll attend our next concert in Perth and wear the same outfit: a fuzzy purple onesie.
What does the future hold for the Arrogant Worms?
We’re playing the Studio Theatre in Perth on September 22. I don’t think we’ve made plans past that.
Music has always played a vital role in movies, especially those of the horror or thriller variety. If I mention Psycho, most people automatically hear the stabbing music played by the violins during the infamous shower scene. How about the terrifying two-note motif that signifies the approach of the shark in Jaws? It was scary enough that many people avoided swimming after seeing that movie.
I have a little exercise for you. Think of your favourite scary movie. Now, think of your favourite scary scene. Watch that scene, then turn the sound off and watch it again. Not so scary anymore, is it?
Like many musicians, I find it really difficult to watch horror movies, as the music gets to me. When I see someone going alone down into the basement accompanied by suspenseful music, it is time for me to get up and grab a snack and preserve some of my dignity. By the way, why are people in horror movies always so foolish?
One of the most revered horror films of all time is the classic 1931 film version of Frankenstein, directed by James Whale. The film is based on Mary Shelley’s book of the same name. The film was a blockbuster for Universal, which had recently been going through financial troubles. In its first week alone, it generated $53,000, which was an enormous sum at the time. Frankenstein left an enduring legacy, including the famous quote “It’s alive! It’s alive!”, which has been used many times since then.
Before the advent of “talkies” in the late 1920s, films did not have soundtracks. Every theatre had live musicians who played along with the film. In some cases it was written down, but in many cases the music was improvised. Small theatres had a piano player, or if they were lucky enough, an organist playing one of the famous theatre organs of the time, while larger theatres had live orchestras. At the height of the silent film era, movies were the largest source of income for instrumental musicians in the United States.
I’ll bet you are thinking that it would be a pretty neat experience to see a film with a soundtrack provided by a live orchestra. Well, you are in luck! On Friday, October 19 at 7:30pm at the Mason Theatre in Perth, the Rideau Lakes Orchestra, featuring professional players from the greater Ottawa area and conducted by Alexandra Guerin, will be providing the soundtrack to Frankenstein. Expect goosebumps! As mentioned in my disclaimer, I am a member of this orchestra. I received my sheet music a little while ago, and it looks really interesting. I can’t wait to hear what it sounds like when we meet for rehearsal.
I do a lot of conducting, but I’m kind of glad that I’m playing and not conducting for this show, as leading an orchestra while keeping an eye on the screen is no small feat, and Alexandra will be putting in a lot of time in advance getting the timing just right. For the orchestra musicians, having the opportunity to be transported back to a simpler era promises to be a lot of fun.
Tickets can be purchased through <ticketsplease.ca>. As a way to get into the spirit of Halloween, buy your ticket, grab your popcorn, and settle in to enjoy a chilling evening of classic horror with Frankenstein and The Rideau Lakes Orchestra. See you there!
The Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists (MVFN) are very pleased to announce the grand opening of the “MVFN Mike McPhail Bird Viewing Shelter” at the Almonte Lagoon.
This special project was conceived, developed and built by the MVFN Birding Committee and other MVFN volunteers. The bird viewing shelter is named after Mike McPhail, a former President of MVFN and a tireless advocate for nature in the community. It overlooks the largest and westernmost of the decommissioned lagoons, past the MVFN Al Potvin Observation Tower.
This project was made financially possible with funds from the Mike McPhail Memorial Fund and some of the surplus monies from the MVFN “Burnt Lands Alvar” campaign.
Bringing a big project from conception to completion involves a lot of planning. In the spring of 2017, a preliminary structural plan was designed by Michel Gauthier. Mississippi Mills Town Staff reviewed it and the request to build it beside the lagoon. The project was approved unanimously by Council in October.
A call was sent out to MVFN members for help with construction, and the response was amazing — 22 volunteers signed up! The first step was to level the ground and spread gravel, done by Howard Robinson and his trusty tractor. Because of the early onset of winter in mid-November, the cement support posts were constructed in Al Potvin’s heated garage. Over the long winter months, volunteers calculated all materials needed, which were purchased later from Levi Home Hardware in Almonte.
Then the long wait for spring began, and the crew waited, and waited, then waited some more. Finally, the ground was dry and firm, and the eager volunteers began the construction.
There were enough talented volunteers that no professionals had to be hired. However, the “commanders-in-chief” had an incredible knack for organizing work crews on the very hottest days in June! In spite of the heat, the construction moved along very quickly, and by early July the shelter was complete.
And what a beautiful and sturdy shelter it is, with a perfect panoramic view of the lagoon and the marsh areas beside it. You can see the shelter off in the distance from County Road #16, just before Concession 8 (where the town dumps snow in the winter). It is made of beautiful pine and has a green metal roof.
The MVFN Board of Directors and members are delighted with the results of the tireless efforts of the co-managers and construction crew over the past year. They are proud to offer the public birding community a unique place to visit. MVFN is very grateful to the Town of Mississippi Mills for allowing the shelter to be built, and for the help and support they offered, and also to Levi’s Home Hardware for their expert advice.
You can access the path to the shelter by turning right onto Conc. 8, off Wolf Grove Road. The path is located across from the far end of the Auld Kirk Cemetery. Parking is permitted on both shoulders of the road, except in front of the gate. The rather hard-to-see path entrance is just beyond the gate.
The “Official Opening” will take place on Wednesday, September 5, at 2:30pm at the MVFN Mike McPhail Bird Viewing Shelter. The public is most welcome to attend the ceremony. This also marks the start of four Wednesday MVFN Open Houses, from 3–5pm, when you will have an opportunity to speak to one of the MVFN bird experts who will have a scope for very close-up and personal views of the birds. Bring your binoculars!
For further information, please email <info@mvfn.ca> or visit <mvfn.ca> for details of the many other activities Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists has to offer.
Now that we’ve read all summer long and chewed over the books we liked and didn’t like, it’s time to think about writing one. On September 15, at Doors Open, the Smiths Falls Library is going to help you do just that. The Friends of the Library have invited Julie Czerneda, science fiction and fantasy writer, to present a Get Plot! Workshop for tentative but determined writers.
“My workshops aren’t critiques,” Czerneda explains. “I have writers work together on new story ideas and challenges. Most haven’t done anything like it before, and every time something special happens. It gets noisy. Writers are talking to writers, sharing ideas that excite them, setting each other on creative fire. By the end, no one’s ready to stop. Many go off with their new peers to continue the stories they’ve developed, to keep that conversation alive. We all need it. This is where it can start for you.”
Now’s the time to give it a try. It’s simple to do. As Lady Macbeth says, “screw your courage to the sticking-place,” go to your computer, and send a “register me!” email to <sals@superaje.com> with your name, genre of writing, and maybe a brief description of what you write. Anything goes, says Czerneda — she just wants a heads-up beforehand. Feel free to add a sentence describing a challenge you find hard to overcome — finding time, finishing, developing characters. Here’s a tip: Czerneda says if you have good characters, a fascinating world, and no plot, your story will stumble; this workshop helps keep your “writerly feet” under you.
The cost (collected at the door) is a $15 donation to the Friends of the Library. The workshop is for those 15 and older, it starts at 10am, and of course there will be refreshments.
Writers Under Tents
At the same time Czerneda is putting writers to work inside, there will be lots happening outside. Local writers and a storyteller will be available for you to talk to, listen to, get advice and buy books from. From 10–11:30, come and meet authors James Bartleman and Patricia Josefchak; from noon to 1:30 have a chat with Claire Smith, David Mulholland and Sandra Nikolai; and from 2–3:30, Roy MacSkimming, Joelle Hübner-McLean and Wendy MacIntyre will be on the grounds under the white tents. Storyteller Marie Bilodeau will tell stories at 10am, noon and 2pm.
This is a stellar cast. Bartleman is a former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and author of As Long as the Rivers Flow and The Redemption of Oscar Wolf. Josefchak’s Provenance of the Stones novels bring small towns and their locals alive with warmth and believability “in ways that cities can’t do.”
Smith, in her memoir now, writes about her equestrian life and the years following its sudden end in 1997; Mulholland puts the “story” in history with his novels McNab, DUEL and Chaudière Falls; and Nikolai homes in on mystery with her Megan Scott/Michael Elliott series, a blend of mystery, thriller and psychological suspense.
MacSkimming, a Canadian novelist, non-fiction writer and cultural policy consultant, is working on The Secret History of John A. — a fictionalized account of the emotional life of Canada’s first prime minister, and is co-authoring a true-crime story about the mysterious death of a beautiful young mother married to a scion of the Canadian establishment. Hübner-McLean is a teacher, author and businesswoman who wants young people to be part of the story and so adopts that in her writing style. Freelance writer and editor MacIntyre is the author of Hunting Piero, a story inspired by the life and work of the Renaissance painter Piero di Cosimo.
Stick around to be enchanted by Marie Bilodeau, a professional performing storyteller. Bilodeau mostly tells adaptations of fairy tales and myths, as well as original stories of her own creation.
It will be a full day at the library! And if you haven’t had your fill of Czerneda, you can follow her to the Station Theatre where at 1:30pm she will read from one of her science fiction books (with questions after), and at 2:30 she will read from one of her fantasy novels.
So give yourself a real treat and make it a day of books and authors, listening and pondering, writing and chatting.
For further information, call the Smiths Falls Library at 283–2911.
— Submitted on behalf of Friends of the Smiths Falls Library
Let’s “Light up the Labyrinth” together — from 6:30–9pm on Friday, September 7. During this event, the warm glow of more than 600 candlelit luminaries will flicker along the path of Carleton Place’s Community Labyrinth. During this year’s walk, local musician Rob McMurray will be playing electric guitar with electronic effects (delays, reverb and more).
To make this event more collaborative, organizers are asking participants to gather at 6:30pm to prepare and place luminaries for the 7:30 candlelit walk. Christine Hume, Chairperson for the Labyrinth Committee, explains: “As a very small committee we need many hands to help us light up this spectacular display. Join us and be part of the assembling and placing of the luminaries, and bring along your BBQ lighter to help us light the candles before the walk. The dismantling at the end is a huge job, and extra help is very welcome then as well!”
The candlelit walks have become a popular fall event, as individuals and families come to enjoy an evening labyrinth stroll. Volunteer Connie Prichett explains that: “children and those young at heart can be part of this festive walk by carrying a lantern, wearing their glow-in-the dark-apparel, glow necklaces, glow sticks, and more. Be creative!” Parents of young children should be cautioned that the luminaries are real flames and to please consider clothing and lantern choices carefully.
For those who wish to relax and watch the candlelight, garden benches and a wheelchair-accessible contemplation ring encircle the labyrinth. If you would like to sit for a while and take in the candlelight glow, bring along a lawn chair too.
Thanks to support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Town of Carleton Place and individuals and businesses within the community, this permanent labyrinth exists for people to use at any time. It is located at the corner of George and Baines Streets beside the Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum, 267 Edmund Street in Carleton Place. For more information or if you would like to help prepare the luminaries, please contact Christine Hume at 859–2136 or find the Carleton Place Community Labyrinth on Facebook.
I don’t know about you, but in the last few days of August, I feel like a deckhand whose ship has been overrun with pirates: walking the plank of summer, with only a step or two left before the dark abyss of September… Ok, that analogy may be a tad over-the-top, but you feel me, right?
Don’t worry, me old matey! September may bring a return of routine and shorter days, but there are plenty of opportunities for fun and merriment left for a hearty old salt such as you! And yes, I’ll stop using the pirate lingo now… but I had to get some practice, because September 19 is International Talk Like a Pirate Day, and no I didn’t just make that up. Now, on to business.
The Festival of Small Halls is back this year with concerts throughout the Valley in the second half of the month, and there are several in Mississippi Mills: it all starts at the Old Town Hall on the 13th with William Prince and opener Outside I’m A Giant, then moves to Pakenham the next day for Stephen Fearing with opener (and local favourite) Kelly Sloan. On September 23 you can catch James Keelaghan with another local favourite, Brad Scott, at Tatlock Hall. If you have tickets to Cassie & Maggie at Union Hall, well good on you, you sly dog, because that show’s sold out. Better buy your tickets now, to avoid disappointment <thefestivalofsmallhalls.com>.
Now is also a good time to pick up your passes for the classical Almonte in Concert series <almonteinconcert.com>. Get a Mini Series Pass for $96 by selecting three of the five concerts, or go for the Full Series Pass for $140. They have a great slate of performers this year, and it all begins October 20 with pianist James Parker and two of Canada’s most promising young classical musicians. The annual Christmas concert will bring together the sounds of piano, trumpet and soprano on December 8. The new year will bring Infusion Baroque quartet exploring the music of Bach’s sons, Ensemble Made in Canada presenting a commissioned suite by fourteen Canadian composers, and Cheng2 Duo playing their favourite Romantics on cello and piano. Do you notice concerts in the Old Town Hall seem to often involve pianists? Not surprising when you hear that beautiful Steinway grand.
What are you doing Wednesday afternoons? Well then you may as well hang out at the (decommissioned) Almonte Sewage Lagoons, right? The Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists invite you to their Birding Open Houses, on Wednesdays from 3-5pm at their new Viewing Shelter. Park on Concession 8 near Wolf Grove Road (by the Auld Kirk cemetery); the gate is across from the cemetery and there should be a sign for birds and the MVFN nature trail. Follow that trail to the tower, where an expert with a spotting scope will be there to help you identify water and shore birds.
Speaking of sewage lagoons… when people hear we have a fibre festival in town, they sometimes get the wrong idea… so let me clear that up. Fibrefest is a fantastic fibre arts festival held annually at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum and the Almonte Arena. This year’s event takes place on September 8 and 9 (with workshops on those days as well as on September 6 and 7). Tickets are $5 per day for entrance to both locations, which are filled with demos and ideas and gadgets and workshops. Vendors include spinners, weavers, and fibre artists from across the province, as well as quilt shops and alpaca farms.
And at 4pm on September 9, hundreds of felted lambs will be spun in a bingo spinner at the arena, and the owners of the first three lambs to come out of the spinner will win fabulous prizes. Tickets for the spin will be on sale at the arena. Go to <almontefibrefest.ca> or <mvtm.ca> for more information, especially if you might be interested in registering for a class to make a shawl, a puppet (!), a cowl, a patchwork table runner, a crocheted mat…
If the walk between Fibrefest venues seems like nothing, then maybe you’re ready for a bigger challenge! September 8 is the Mississippi Mills River Walk & Run. Register online at <almontehospitalfoundation.com> as an individual or team, to run 3, 5, or 10km, and help raise money for the Almonte General Hospital/Fairview Manor Foundation Women’s Health Programs.
And last but in no way least, we want to wish Equator Coffee Roasters a very happy 20th anniversary. If you do too (or you just enjoy live music, a beer garden, food and drink samples and family fun), you’d better head over to 451 Ottawa Street in Almonte on September 22 from 4-8pm, for their Anniversary Party. Owners Craig and Amber Hall are happy to report that: “After 20 years in business, our founding principle remains the same — a good cup of coffee can still change the world. We are very proud of what we have accomplished both locally and globally and can’t wait to see what the coming years will hold.”
Blues On The Rideau is pleased to announce their 2018/19 line-up. This dinner and show fundraiser series that has been running at The Cove Country Inn in Westport is recognized as one of the premier blues series in Canada. The shows start in September and run once a month through to May (December excluded). This year brings another all-star cast, and as in previous years, every show is a fundraiser for a different local charity. The series has raised over $68,000 to date, and the goal for this year is to add another $5,000 to that impressive total. This season is dedicated to the memory of Diane Leduc Doran — partner in BOTR along with James Doran — who passed away in November of 2017.
All BOTR shows run from 7–11pm and include a delicious full-course buffet dinner served by the Cove’s friendly staff. After dinner you get to see (and dance to!) world-class bands up close and personal — the way the blues are best enjoyed. There are door prize giveaways at every show, as well as two grand prizes drawn at the end of the season.
Again this year, the price for each dinner and show is only $65 (plus tax). Advance reservations are required and it is wise to book well in advance, especially if you want to stay overnight. Rooms at The Cove and nearby accommodations frequently sell out for BOTR nights. You can contact The Cove at 273–3636 or <info@coveinn.com>.
So Who’s Playing?
So glad you asked! Kicking off this season is Hamilton’s Steve Strongman Band on September 28. Steve broke onto the scene with a roar in 2006 with the release of his début album Honey. Since then he’s recorded four more CDs. His 2013 album A Natural Fact won him the Juno that year and the two that followed also earned Juno nominations.
Later in the season, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar take the stage on October 19 with their fabulous soul-blues and beautiful harmonies. BOTR rounds out 2018 with the big-time blues, soul and R&B sounds of the ever-popular Hogtown Allstars — featuring six members from two of Canada’s most famous blues bands — on November 16.
2019 gets off to a regal start with the king of the blues when Toronto’s Jack de Keyzer Band plays a two-night-stand on January 18 and 19. Jack and his band are perennial favourites at The Cove, so be sure to reserve early for the night of your choice. February’s show features “one of Canada’s blues treasures” (according to Blues Music Magazine): Dawn Tyler Watson, who has teamed up The Ben Racine Band —one of Québec’s hottest soul and blues combos (bring your sweetheart — the show is the day after Valentine’s Day!). On March 22 the Ria Reece Band brings more great blues, soul & R&B from Montréal to Westport. On April 19, two of Canada’s best roots/blues performers — Rick Fines & Suzie Vinnick — will join forces once again to rock The Cove along with their band. Rick and Suzie have sold the place out every time they have played, so get your tickets early! The season ends on May 10 with Ottawa’s Murray Kinsley & Wicked Grin.
For details and links to the music, visit <bluesontherideau.ca>, and don’t forget to check future issues of theHumm!
In 1968, a group of free-spirited visionaries moved onto what had once been the Brennan farm, west of Perth, and created the vibrant, alternative community of Brooke Valley. Their dream of a sustainable and cooperative lifestyle, together with the natural beauty of the area, soon drew others — many of whom, not surprisingly, were craftspeople.
In 1992, twenty-four years after the farm was first settled, a collection of local artisans established the first Perth Autumn Studio Tour and laid the foundation for one of the area’s finest and best-attended art tours. Many still have a strong presence in the Valley and are sought after for their exceptional skills. Others have since passed away, but they are fondly remembered by those whose lives they touched, and are deeply respected for their much-admired work. So, a big thank you to the founding members of the Studio Tour and their guests: Doug & Anna France, Richard Banister, Jackie Seaton (1945-2013), Amanda Lewis, Stephen Clark, Bruce Baker, Dunn Sohn, Rosy Ashford-Pile, Glenn Gangnier (1954-2014), Ali Ross, Raphael Kerem, Michael Nault, Coral Nault, Bridget O’Flaherty, Dawn King, Charlee Ostrom, Rita Redner, Franc van Oort and Ellen Fraser.
In the years since its founding, the tour has seen many studios and homes change hands, as different artists have passed through the community, and in some cases, planted roots. Among them are painter Catherine Orfald, who took over Bruce Baker’s woodshop in 2004, potter Anne Chambers, who purchased Glenn Gangnier’s pottery studio in 2009, and felt maker Zoë Lianga, who set up shop in Dawn King’s former studio in 2017.
Visitors come from great distances to see where these artisans work, live, and tend their spectacular gardens, and to experience the high-calibre original art that is on display. It is the artists’ opportunity to shine, share their love for their craft, and invite visitors to view, discuss and purchase directly something from their unique collections. The meandering roads through the countryside between the studios are lovely in the autumn, as the changing leaves are at their peak. A drive through the rolling hills, awash in red, orange and gold is breathtaking. We suggest devoting at least one entire day, if not two. Every year, visitors say that they wished they had planned for more time at each studio.
This year’s roster — the biggest ever — will feature 32 artists in eight studios, and include a new “emerging artist” category as well as nine new artists. After a year’s sabbatical, Catherine Orfald’s studio is back with a display of her paintings and portraits, paintings by Brent McGillivray, the artistry of woodturner Jim Sprague, stained glass artist Steve Boyd, and Islamic geometry artist Bastou Bacharach. Continuing west, Susie Osler’s studio will feature her ceramics and drawings, along with creations of shoemaker and leatherwork artist Willa Murray, original drawings by Jasper Nault, works by textile artist Bridget O’Flaherty, and garden elements by Scott Dobson. Further west, you’ll find Dunn Sohn’s studio featuring his woodturnings and furniture, jewellery by Wouter van der Molen, metal embossing by Jill Spear, weavings by Heather Sherratt, and batik art by Sarah Hale. Close to Brooke Valley School and centrally located on the tour circuit, the home and new studio of Zoë Lianga will offer a collection of her felted works, paintings and fused glass by Maureen Bennett, and woodworking by Wild Wood Design. Potter Rita Redner is situated right across the road. Her studio will host jeweller Christine Woolacott and painter Michelle Shook. Not far from Rita’s, Anne Chambers’ ceramics studio will also feature stone carvings by John Schweighardt, photography by Shelley Ball, and textile designs by Dagmar Sagat. As you head east, towards Perth, be sure not to miss Franc van Oort’s printmaking studio. Franc will share his space with jeweller Ellen Fraser and painter Gary Barr. Finally, on Christie Lake Road, take the time to browse cedar strip boat maker Brent Kirkham’s studio where you can also see the works of blown-glass artist Paulus Tjiang, jewellery designer Evan Taylor, and chocolate-maker Ludwig Ratzinger.
You’ll also want to be sure to have a lunch break at Brooke Valley School where a Harvest Lunch will be offered between 11:30am and 3:30pm. Scrumptious seasonal food, both sweet and savoury, are lovingly prepared and served by the parents, students and friends of the school. A delicious assortment of items with attention to special dietary needs will also be available. The Harvest Lunch is one of the main annual fundraisers for this privately run, parent-cooperative two-room schoolhouse.
Stop to take in each of the artists’ work and a lunch at the school, and chances are you’ll leave inspired, excited, and invigorated by a connection you’ve made with an artist and by the charm of this beautiful and beguiling place.
The Perth Autumn Studio Tour is always on Thanksgiving weekend. This year, it falls early and will take place on October 6, 7, and 8, from 10am to 5pm each day. You can find the tour on Instagram and Facebook to see how the artists are preparing for the big weekend. They’ll be featuring each artist and their work, and will be giving away two $50 gift certificates (redeemable on the tour) leading up to the tour. Keep an eye out and pick up a brochure from a shop near you.
My grandmother, Harriet Law, kept her wedding dress after she married Einar Holseth in 1913. My mother stored the dress until it was my turn to guard this piece of family history. All of Harriet’s great-granddaughters have been photographed in it. This dress will be featured in a Wedding Dress Fashion Show of dresses from 120 years ago until the present that will show the history of wedding gowns and the people who wore them.
The fashion show will take place on Sunday, September 30 at 2pm in the sanctuary of Zion-Memorial United Church in Carleton Place, located at 37 Franklin Street. Tickets are $12 and available from the church office Tuesday to Friday in the morning (257–2133) and from the Floral Boutique (77 Bridge Street in Carleton Place).
People have given me so many ideas to make the show even prettier and more fun. When I went into the Floral Boutique to ask about a bouquet, Sarah said that I should have a bouquet toss at the end. Great idea! When I mentioned the show to Ivy Draper, she said she would make pew decorations — just like a real wedding. When I went to the Victoria School Museum to discuss the loan of two 100-year-old-dresses, Jennifer Irwin offered to set up a display of era-appropriate items around the dresses. When I asked Mary Lou Carroll, our music director at Zion-Memorial, to play for the show, she volunteered and said she would wear the dress from her wedding last summer.
In the exhibit in the upper hall, there will be one 120-year-old dress, two that are 100 years old, and a peignoir set with cap that is at least 100 years old. The original photos of brides wearing their dresses will also be displayed. My grandmother’s dress will be the first one down the aisle in the show. Dresses from most decades to the present will be modeled.
Cooper Street Productions has volunteered to videotape the fashion show. Megan from Sinders will show dresses from 1927 and 1955 as well as her own, and Renewed With Love will exhibit an up-to-the-minute gown. Don’t miss this marvelous opportunity to see the dresses they said “yes” to!
Bill and Lorraine Kemp from Fluid Solar Roasted Coffee are local single-origin small-scale coffee roasters with a focus on quality and attention to detail. They have lived off the electrical grid for the past 25 years, generating electricity and heat directly from renewable resources. 100% of their water is recycled back to nature and their garbage waste stream motto is “if we can’t recycle it or reuse it, we don’t use it”. They also drive a fully electric car that is charged using solar electricity.
Bill and Lorraine have also extended their sustainable way of life into their business philosophy. On September 12 at 7pm, come to the Almonte Library and hear Bill talk about their successes as well as some lessons learned in living off the grid.
Then on October 10 at 7pm, Brodie Barrie of Forest Floor Mushrooms will focus on home mushroom cultivation techniques and incorporating mushrooms into your garden. He will also touch on foraging and some edible species to keep an eye out for in Mississippi Mills. You may have already met Brodie at the Almonte Farmers’ Market selling cultivated and wild mushrooms, grow-your-own kits and logs. If you are a fan of mushrooms you won’t want to miss this interesting talk.
Admission is free but registration is required for these talks. Please register at the front desk, or visit <missmillslibrary.com> for more details.
Art… and Soul
The “Great Information Freeway” returns to the Almonte United Church Hall on Friday, September 28 with the first of seven lectures presented by the Almonte Lectures series. This longstanding series is once again promising to be the best way to conclude every month from now until spring. Warren Thorngate, Chair of the organizing committee, has procured seven outstanding lecturers to educate and entertain on a variety of subjects from puppetry to classical music.
The first lecture, taking place at 7:30pm on September 28, features Order of Canada member Noreen Young talking about how her fascination with puppets shaped her life. No doubt some of her favourites will make an appearance as well. A retrospective of Noreen’s work has been a smash hit at the Textile Museum <mvtm.ca>, and will continue to be on display until September 22. A visit to this must-see exhibition will enhance the lecture and increase your appreciation of this unique art form.
October’s lecture will give you the history of urban horses, presented by Joanna Dean, and November brings its own surprise when Mel Turner will step from behind the A/V equipment he so ably operates to give an insight into the evolution of computers.
January and February will feature two lectures on health issues. Radiation and human health has always been Don Wiles’ forte, and the health of women in Africa has been a concern for Dr. David Caloia since his time spent in Kenya. These two topics lead well into the March lecture on social enterprises. Consultant and author Ted Jackson will delve into the intricacies of their value in modern times.
In April, the final lecture of the series will deviate from the usual format. It will be given in the Almonte Old Town Hall by Elaine Keillor, on the topic of Canadian Women as Musical Pioneers. Dr. Keillor will be presenting this lecture in collaboration with the Learning in Almonte series given by Ian Douglas in the spring. She will be accompanying the lecture with musical selections performed on the grand piano. More details will be forthcoming closer to the date, but make early plans to attend on April 26, 2019.
All other lectures take place at the United Church Hall at 106 Elgin Street in Almonte, starting at 7:30pm on the last Friday of each month from September to November, and from January to April. The lectures are free, fun, educational, entertaining, and a perfect way to open your mind to fresh ideas and to meet new people. The hall is fully accessible for everyone with good parking in a well-lit lot.
Read theHumm every month to check out the upcoming lecture, and refresh your memory at <almontelectures.net>.
As every theatre-goer knows, murder mysteries generally start off with a Bang! and then wend their duplicitous way, via clues and misdirects, to the killer’s doorstep. It’s a comfortable, time-honoured formula.
But don’t get too comfortable…
The Business of Murder, opening on September 6 at Perth’s Studio Theatre, is a murder mystery that, yes, leaves you guessing breathlessly to the end, but does so in an intriguingly unconventional way. Written by the great Richard Harris (not the Guinness-loving Irish actor — the screenwriter famous for A Touch of Frost and The Avengers), this thriller features just three actors. With such a slim cast it’s a safe bet that all three will get their hands dirty in the course of things. But what shape will their infamy take?
Trying to whet an audience’s appetite for a murder mystery is tricky: give too much detail and you betray the plot, too little and you don’t set the hook. Suffice it to say that The Business of Murder is a tantalizing stew comprised of murder, revenge and betrayal, with other delicious bits of intrigue thrown in for spice. The play’s director, Lucas Tennant, who recently helmed the Studio Theatre’s wildly successful production of the thriller The Game’s Afoot, says he’s never seen a plot quite like this one.
“The Business of Murder is a mystery that even the venerable Sherlock Holmes would have had trouble unravelling, or his arch nemesis Moriarty concocting,” says Tennant.”Just when you think you’ve figured it out, one of the characters puts a new puzzle piece on the table. It keeps you guessing, like a riddle you just have to crack, or a great book you can’t put down.”
The setup is deceptively simple: Stone, a grim, humourless man, invites Dee, a young female television playwright, to his flat on the pretence of discussing a script. Once there, she is surprised when Superintendent Hallett, the man with whom she is having an affair, also arrives, but for an entirely different reason. Nothing is as it appears, and as the plot twists and turns, Stone’s motive for convening this baffling assembly is gradually revealed. They are all, it would seem, in the same business: the business of murder.
“Like any good thriller, there are several different facets to this mystery,” adds Tennant. “Your head will spin, but you’ll enjoy the ride!”
Pulling the levers and pushing the buttons are three of the Studio Theatre’s most seasoned actors: Hugh McCulloch (Wait Until Dark, On A First Name Basis, Mousetrap) stars as the enigmatic Mr. Stone; Annie West (Romantic Comedy, Murder by the Book) is screenwriter Dee; and Grey Masson (Old Love, The Cemetery Club, London Suite) plays Inspector Hallett. The play is produced and stage managed by Jane Stott, and the assistant stage manager is newcomer Nicole Terbruge. The set is designed by Reiner Silberhorn and dressed by Rayna Critchley and Annie West. Props are coordinated by Donna Sproule.
The Business of Murder opens at the Studio Theatre on Thursday, September 6 for seven performances, September 6, 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 7:30pm, and September 9 and 16 at 2pm. Advance tickets are $24 at Tickets Please in the Matheson House Museum Visitor Centre (11 Gore St. E., 485–6434, ticketsplease.ca) and at the Studio Theatre box office on show nights. Rush tickets for students with ID are just $10 at the door, subject to availability. Attend opening night and save $5!
With just three characters, you’ll be tempted to think The Business of Murder is an easy puzzle to solve. Of course, you’d be dead wrong. Don’t miss your chance to be turned, twisted, spun and hoodwinked by this refreshingly unconventional, thoroughly intriguing thriller. For full details (but not the solution!) visit <studiotheatreperth.com>. Remember that season passes are on sale now at Tickets Please in Perth and at the Studio Theatre box office on Saturday mornings between 10 and noon. And the Studio Theatre is now showing first-run movies every month! Check the website for titles, dates and details.
The Crown & Pumpkin tour returns on Thanksgiving weekend (October 6–8 from 10am to 5pm daily) in the Clayton and Almonte areas. There will be over 55 participating artists and artisans at 20 enticing stops. The tour features a fantastic range of creators, and the unique stops were chosen to showcase the creative environment of artists (with boats hanging from rafters, entranceways encrusted with beads and buttons, a “castle” gallery, heritage buildings and beautiful gardens), or places where the “magic” happens (craft breweries, furniture makers, solar coffee roasters and much more). Many of these locations are open to the public only once a year, and by careful placement of the right guest artists at each host stop, organizers have created an exciting and rich visitor experience that only happens during Crown & Pumpkin.
Each stop is accessible along an easy driving route that takes you past historic buildings and breathtaking fall scenery. You can cycle part or all of the tour, as larger purchases will be delivered within a 70km radius. There are also walking portions of the tour.
A good place to start your self-guided tour is at the historic 161-year-old Union Hall where you’ll find Chris’s hot glass art, Joanne’s wire wrap jewelry, Laurette’s photography, Clement’s pottery and Clare’s handmade soap, as well as pewter treasures by Colin, one of the few remaining pewtersmiths in Canada. Just around the corner is Culandubh Studio, featuring Laurel’s animal portraiture, Nadine’s miniature quilts, Deb’s natural skin products, Ross’ maple syrup, and Meg and Jeff’s sweet & savoury preserves.
Then head into Clayton to Woolly Things Studio for Karen’s weaving and photography, Peter’s books (readings at 1 and 3pm daily), Dave’s woodcarvings, Sarah’s paintings, Kevin and Sandra’s flamework and fused glass, Jill’s painting and art wear, and Jodi’s Heart and Soul Café Lunch Stop.
The tour then takes you to the “Beyond Clayton” stops, which are the hidden gems that are well worth the drive (and it is such a beautiful drive). Visit Fluid Coffee for Lorraine’s amazing solar roasted coffee and Bill’s renewable energy books, Kat’s wire crochet jewelry, Barcha’s garden art and the Jolly Hog Gourmet Food Lunch Stop. For your added enjoyment, Tara will be giving live musical performances throughout each day. Then travel out to Sumack Loft for Auni’s and Liam’s paintings, Kristina’s handcrafted home décor, Virginia’s masks and Colin’s fantastic woodturned pens and bowls. One concession beyond that is twofourtree Studio with Eric’s woodworking and furniture and Chrissie’s pottery and creative freelance. And just a short drive further is Lynn and Paula’s Artcore Décor featuring upcycled home décor.
Returning to the “Clayton” cluster, you will find the traditional Clayton General Store which has been in continuous operation for 175 years (and is also a convenient ATM and gas stop), Moondance Gallery with Barbara’s jewelry and Robert’s hats and quilts, and Saskia and Sietze’s pottery at their heritage Clayworks home studio. Continue travelling along Bellamy Road to Willowcreek Studio to see Kaiija’s well known paintings and enjoy her exceptional gardens.
Then head back to the “Historic Downtown Almonte” grouping where you will find the Almonte Potters Guild, Jean’s painting studio, Diana’s sculpture studio, Mary and Lynn’s painting studio, and Michaela’s Kehla Jewellery Design. At Carriageway Studios off Mill Street you’ll find Dawn’s printmaking, Megan’s designer clothing, Jeremy’s pottery, Chris’s fibre art, Marie-France’s weaving and Jessica’s Traditional Syrian Food Lunch Stop. Also, on Saturday only, from 11am to 2pm, the Mississippi Mills Youth Centre will be serving artisan pizzas cooked in the Community Oven at the Almonte Public Library.
Finish off your tour at the “East Almonte Foodie” cluster with Hummingbird Chocolate (hosting Anita’s photography), HFT donuts (with Gary’s handcrafted walking sticks and canes), and finally, a cold brew at Crooked Mile Brewery (featuring Richard’s paintings and local author Sandra’s mystery novels).
For more info on this Thanksgiving Feast of fine art, fine craft and fine food, check out <crownandpumpkin.com>.
As the temperature starts to drop and we leave our toasty summer behind, we’re left with fond memories of this summer’s special moments. Be it beautiful vacation destinations, gatherings with family or friends, or music festivals that opened our ears to new artistic finds, these memories will hopefully carry us through as we settle back into our fall routines.
I’m thrilled to announce that Canada’s heartbreak poets The LYNNeS (Lynn Miles and Lynne Hanson) will be gracing The Listening Room Series at The Perth Restaurant on Sunday, September 30 at 7pm in support of Lanark County Interval House. Many people have stopped me on the street to say how much they enjoyed The LYNNeS at Stewart Park Festival this past July, so it’s wonderful to be able to bring these two seasoned musicians back to town so soon.
With four Canadian Folk Music Awards and a Juno, Lynn Miles blends her sweet voice together with that of multi-award-winning Lynne Hanson. Their complementary mix fuses tight vocal harmonies with hauntingly gritty lyrics, satisfying to anyone who’s heard them throughout their recent tours of North America and Europe. Throw in their witty patter between songs and it’s easy to see why Mike Davies of the UK’s <folking.com> stated: “Individually, both Lynnes are formidable forces in contemporary country; together they just might be unstoppable.” I’ve always enjoyed both these ladies’ individual performances and, having heard their blended voices, I can’t wait to hear a full evening of their music. They’re currently showcasing their new album Heartbreak Song for the Radio.
Tickets for this show are $20. For either dinner reservations and show-only tickets, please call Sue at 267–7902 to arrange payment. Tickets must be paid for in advance and are already selling quickly, so call soon. I look forward to seeing you there enjoying these world-class singer/songwriters while supporting a worthy cause.
The Old Stone Mill in Delta, Ontario is a National Historic Site showcasing milling technology and 1800s industrial heritage. Built in 1810, it is one of the finest examples of early industrial architecture in the region.Today the mill features interpretive displays, an operating waterwheel, millstones, grain elevators, and artifacts illustrating the grist milling process through the years. You can tour the mill yourself or enjoy a free guided tour.During the summer the resident miller grinds his organic heritage red fife wheat into flour using 200-year-old millstones. Stone ground flour is available in the small gift shop that also offers interesting mementos of your visit.
Throughout the year the mill hosts many events. Some are fundraising efforts to help support the non-profit Delta Mill Society, while others are designed to “Instill a Passion for our Heritage”. The owners and operators of the Old Stone Mill NHS also run the Old Town Hall and the Blacksmith Shop in the Mill Drive Shed. Find them in Delta at 46 King Street (County Road 42). The facilities are open daily from Victoria Day Weekend through to Labour Day Monday from 10am to 5pm, and thereafter by appointment only. Admission is free (donations are most welcome!), and more information can be found at <deltamill.org>
Jim Bryson Band
On Friday, September 21, the Delta Old Town Hall will echo with the tunes of the Jim Bryson Band, as part of this year’s Festival of Small Halls line-up. Jim Bryson has released five critically acclaimed solo recordings, the most recent being 2016’s Somewhere We Will Find Our Place. The show starts at 7:30, but come early for a buffet featuring a variety of dishes that starts at 6pm. The cost for dinner is just $14 per person and reservations are required. They can be made by emailing <joanne.van.dreumel@gmail.com>. Concert tickets can be purchased from the Festival of Small Halls at <thefestivalofsmallhalls.com>.
Delta Harvest Festival
Saturday, September 29 is the perfect time to plan a visit to the Old Stone Mill, because that’s the date of the fourth annual Delta Harvest Festival! This community event starts with a harvest breakfast at Delta United Church from 8–10am, then features events at several venues in town. At the Old Stone Mill you’ll find street vendors selling produce, flour and breads, baking and preserves. There will also be blacksmith and grinding demos, a bread baking contest, and a BBQ beginning at 11am.
Over at the Delta Fairgrounds there will be craft vendors, a car show, entertainment and a harvest dance at 8pm. You can tour the Delta Firehall Museum and check out the yard sale with local vendors at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, which will also host a chicken pot pie lunch at 11am. And if all this looks like so much fun that you won’t want to drive back home, there’s 25% off camping rates at Lower Beverley Lake Park for the weekend! For more details and directions, visit <deltamill.org> or call 928–2584.
The Ottawa Bach Choir (OBC) would like to welcome you to its seventeenth season of glorious choral music! Over the past sixteen years the professional ensemble, founded by conductor Lisette Canton, has travelled the world and received national and international recognition. Last season the choir recorded its seventh CD and performed — for the fourth time — at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto. In 2016 the choir released its JUNO-nominated CD 'Twas But Pure Love to critical acclaim, and also toured China, where it was invited to perform as Canada’s choral representative in the prestigious Meet festival in Beijing. The choir has performed at the prestigious Bachfest Leipzig, at Carnegie Hall, across Canada, and in Europe in Germany, England, France, Italy, the Netherlands, as well as in Mexico. Performances this season include a Subscription Series, the release of the choir’s new CD Baroque Passion, and several Special Events.
The season opens with the choir’s first concert, Christmas in Venice, on Saturday, December 1 at 8pm at St. Matthew’s Church in the Glebe. This performance includes festive repertoire for Christmas inspired by Italian composers working in Venice during the early Baroque period. Featuring Monteverdi’s Christmas Vespers from the Selva morale e spirituale collection of 1640-41, polychoral works by Giovanni Gabrieli, and works by Bassano and Croce, the music from this concert will celebrate the glory and splendour of the Christmas season. This spectacular presentation includes the Ensemble Caprice baroque orchestra, with strings, sackbuts and continuo, as well as soloists. Set in the magnificent acoustic of St. Matthew’s Church, this concert is sure to inspire.
The choir then launches its seventh CD, Baroque Passion, at a celebratory concert and party at the Rideau Club on Friday, December 14 at 7pm. Join the OBC for great music, food and drink, and wonderful company from the business, cultural and diplomatic communities.
The second subscription concert, La Sainte-Chapelle, takes place in the new year on Saturday, March 2 at 8pm at Knox Presbyterian Church. It will highlight sacred and secular music by rarely-performed French composers who were prominent at the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris in the Renaissance and early Baroque periods. Repertoire includes Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s Messe des morts, as well as motets and chansons by Pierre Certon and Claudin de Sermisy, all performed in the lush acoustic of Knox Presbyterian. Organist Matthew Larkin joins the choir for this moving concert.
The final concert of the season is scheduled for Saturday, May 4 at 8pm at St. Jean-Baptiste Church. Mozart Celebration will feature majestic masterpieces by Mozart composed in the 1770s while he was still in Salzburg. Repertoire includes the Krönungsmesse (Coronation Mass), K. 317, Vesperae solennes de confessore, K. 339, Regina coeli, K. 276 and more, with orchestra and soloists.
In addition to the Subscription Series, several Special Events will round out the season, featuring smaller concerts with gourmet food and drink, as well as a large educational outreach program for students in the Ottawa-Carleton region. Regular Subscription tickets are available now (see OBC website for details). Tickets for individual concerts will be available at several retail outlets closer to the dates of the concerts and, depending on availability, at the door. For more information, visit <ottawabachchoir.ca>, or contact us at <info@ottawabachchoir.ca> or 270–1015.
Join us and discover the best that choral music has to offer!
Almonte’s favourite five-piece alt-neo-psychedelic-folk-rock band, The Ragged Flowers, invites you to a night of groovy original music in support of the local charity SchoolBOX on Saturday, September 29 at the Almonte Old Town Hall.
Following a sold-out gig at the Cedar Hill School House in August where they unveiled several new songs, the Flowers are now channeling their musical energy into raising funds for SchoolBOX and the people of Nicaragua in a time of particularly great need.
SchoolBOX, the “little charity that could”, has been building educational infrastructure and providing school supplies to tens of thousands of children across Nicaragua since it was founded by Almonte’s Tom Affleck in 2006.
Nicaragua, once ranked the safest country in Central America, was rocked by protests and unrest in mid-April. As a result, SchoolBOX temporarily suspended its educational programming for the safety and security of its local staff and international volunteers. When the protests hit, SchoolBOX was only a week away from completing construction of its 100th classroom, a remarkable milestone made possible with the generous support of many donors in Almonte, throughout the Ottawa Valley, and right across Canada.
“We are grateful to have such an outpouring of local community support for SchoolBOX during this difficult time,” says Jon Tam, the organization’s Acting Executive Director. “As soon as it is safe for our staff to return to the field, we will be working hard to complete our 100th classroom and bring classrooms, libraries, washrooms, and school supplies to communities across Nicaragua where there are needed now more than ever.”
The Ragged Flowers have been long-time supporters of SchoolBOX, with two of its members, Nathan Sloniowski and Ian Douglas, having travelled to Nicaragua with their families. Sloniowski even wrote a song about his experiences in Managua called Ron’s Journey. The song sets to music the life story of SchoolBOX’s Nicaraguan Director Ronald Chavarria, who was the first member of his family to get an education and break the cycle of poverty.
Seasoned fans (or “Ragged Gardeners”) know that tickets for this show will sell out fast, so don’t wait to get your seats! Tickets can be purchased online at <schoolbox.ca/raggedflowers>. The show costs $40 per person and each ticket holder will receive a $20 charitable tax receipt from SchoolBOX.
About SchoolBOX
SchoolBOX is committed to “Making Education Possible” for the children of Nicaragua. The organization implements cost-effective programming by building schools and providing school supplies, libraries and teacher training. They have built 99 classrooms, 75 libraries, and 59 washrooms in Nicaragua and serve over 20,000 students and teachers in 108 communities on an annual basis.
The SchoolBOX community is united in love for the children it serves and the belief that education can defeat poverty. SchoolBOX is comprised of thousands of people from different faiths and socioeconomic backgrounds. It empowers educators and students, and they in turn empower their communities and change the world.
About The Ragged Flowers
With two studio CDs and a live concert CD under their belts, CBC-FM and CKCU-FM radio play, plus concert appearances at festivals including Blue Skies and Stewart Park, The Ragged Flowers are celebrating 21 years of band brotherhood and collective song-making.
The band is comprised of four original members and one “new bud”. Rhythm-master Ian Douglas contributes an African/Latin groove with his tribal array of hand-drums and his low mysterious voice, along with keyboard virtuosity. Steve Reside brings radiance to his high-energy vocals and striking harmonies, set against the warmth of his acoustic rhythm guitar plus assorted shakers and percussion. Acoustic and electric bass man Rob Riendeau provides a sliding carpet of low-end grooves to root The Ragged Flowers’ sound firmly in the earth. Nathan Sloniowski’s acoustic and electric guitars and uke add to the fretted depth, and his evocative, powerful vocals add to the harmonic blend. George Birchall is the newest member of The Flowers. A multi-instrumentalist, George adds vocals, guitar, keyboards, and melodica to the band.