Blossom Magazine 2019

blossom Official publication of the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival • May 29-June 3, 2019

magazine

ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

www.appleblossom.com

Table of Contents President’s Message..................................................... 4 2019 Apple Blossom Festival Sponsors...................... 5 Platinum sponsors, exclusive events sponsors, gold, silver, bronze and blossom sponsors

86th Queen’s Message.................................................. 6

6

Kendra Whitehead

Looking ahead to festival fun....................................... 8 Apple Blossom Festival brings in summer in the Annapolis Valley

Did you know?............................................................. 10 Fun facts about the festival

Get to know Dan D. Apple.......................................... 11 Q & A with the official mascot of the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

This year’s Leadership Candidates............................ 12 From around the Annapolis Valley

Apple Blossom Festival volunteers go the distance............................................................ 18 A toast to the Valley.................................................... 19 Cheers to apple cider cocktails

Colouring Page............................................................ 21

8 PUBLISHER: Sarah Dennis DIRECTOR, PRODUCT MANAGEMENT: Lindsey Bunin CUSTOM CONTENT EDITOR: Paula Bugden DESIGNER: Peter Ross SALES: Shelly Phillips (902) 680-6769 PHOTOGRAPHER: Light and Lens Photography, official photographer of the Apple Blossom Festival COVER PHOTO CREDIT: Volodymyr Shevchuk/123RF

10 Copyright 2019 by The Chronicle Herald All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

2717 Joseph Howe Drive Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2T2 Tel: (902) 426-2811 TheChronicleHerald.ca Apple Blossom magazine makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the accuracy or reliability of information contained herein. The views contained in this magazine are those of the writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reflect the views of Apple Blossom magazine and its publisher, The Chronicle Herald.

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3

President’s Message

T

his year marks 87 years of continuing the tradition within the rich and vibrant culture which surrounds us in the Annapolis Valley.

What better way to celebrate the past, present and future of the Annapolis Valley than with our Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival.

We know the festival creates fond memories, fosters new relationships and brings together all for one celebration, which is why this year’s theme of “Once a Blossom — Always a Blossom” is so perfectly suited for our festival.

Incredibly, what has become a Nova Scotia hallmark was conceived and organized strictly by volunteers. Still to this day, 87 years later, the festival is successful due to the passionate and dedicated group of volunteers who have added so much and taken so little, but who have

gotten the best value by virtue of their dedication.

When the Kentville Board of Trade seized on the idea of an Apple Blossom Festival back in 1932, it was in an attempt to create something unique that would appeal to Nova Scotians equally. The pioneers of the festival sought to capitalize on the enduring beauty and appeal of rural Nova Scotia and create a legacy that would live on for many generations. The Valley, and indeed all of Nova Scotia, have been and continue to be the beneficiaries of the festival.

Last summer, just after the 86th Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival, we reached out to ask for your help. More specifically, we asked you to share your opinions about what you like and dislike about the festival and how we can make it a better experience for everyone. You responded by the hundreds. We

have taken your feedback and, with the support of the Acadia Entrepreneurship Centre, have created a new strategic plan.

This plan will help us present a festival that everyone can enjoy — a festival that is fun, safe, memorable and well-organized.

A festival that brings you the best of the Annapolis Valley’s past, present and future.

From May 29 to June 3, I invite you to come out and take part in one or many of the events our festival has to offer. Whether you’re looking forward to lining the streets in anticipation of the Grand Street Parade or shining up your treasured automobile for the Antique Car Show, there is surely to be something for everyone.

While all the traditional events you have come to expect will continue into 2019, stay in touch with us on our Facebook page, our website and on our

local Valley radio stations to hear what’s in store for 2019. I wish you all the best and look forward to seeing you at the festival!

In Apple Blossom spirit, Logan Morse President

87th Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

Board of Directors (From left): Logan Morse President, finance Steffany Cox-Lingard Secretary, community liaison Angela Pelton Leadership, protocol, transportation (From left): Ryan Swetnam Events Krista Morine Children’s Parade Alicia Ash Grand Street Parade (From left): Nick Aalders Grand Street Parade Juli MacHattie Sponsorship Amanda Pulsifer Office manager

4

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

2019 Festival Sponsors PLATINUM SPONSORS

Auto Group EXCLUSIVE EVENTS SPONSORS

BLOSSOM FOOD TRUCK PARTY

TOUCH A TRACTOR

ANTIQUE CAR SHOW

CORONATION

CHILDREN’S PARADE

STREET DANCE

BLOSSOM BREW NIGHT

TEMPORARY TATTOO

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

ourvalley.ca BLOSSOM SPONSORS

Inkspot Jason’s Independent #0624

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5

Queen’s Message

A year in review I,

like many others in the Annapolis Valley, cannot help but to dream of spring. Birds chirping at our windows, flowers pushing their way up through the earth — spring is our world’s awakening from the dark winter snooze.

Nestled between the mountain ranges, our communities in the Annapolis Valley have so much more to celebrate than warmer temperatures. Spring is the kickoff of our prosperous agricultural season. Eighty-six years ago, the Apple Blossom Festival was born with the intent to showcase what we have to celebrate: our industry, our apples, our beauty and our communities. Fast forward 86 years and here we are, preparing to celebrate the 87th Apple Blossom Festival.

As my time as Queen Annapolisa comes to a close, I find myself reminiscing. I began my Apple Blossom journey in 2016, when I competed to be chosen as my community’s leadership candidate, where I was unsuccessful. I am so thankful for the lessons that “loss” taught me.

Truly, it was not a loss, but a pivotal moment that granted me time to grow, mature and find more of myself than I had ever before. Two years later, I decided that’s not how I wanted my Apple Blossom journey to end and I again put my name forward as the leadership candidate for my home Village of Canning. A different young woman than the first time, my focus was to be myself and represent my village with pride.

I recently read a book in which the essayist Anaïs Nin was mentioned for her great line, “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” For me, this was a lesson I learned during my Apple Blossom journey.

The leadership competition is about much more than pretty dresses and sparkling tiaras. It is about finding a new love for where we call home, finding new friendships and connections and, most importantly, finding yourself. Leadership candidates put our best qualities out to the public to show who we are in our communities. There is no better way to find who you are than to push your limits, while remaining true to your character.

The amount of personal growth I have gained during my reign has been astonishing. Each encounter touches your heart and 6

Kendra Whitehead, Queen Annapolisa 86th.

changes you ever so slightly. At the time, the changes are so minimal you may not notice, until one day you are looking back at the beginning of a whirlwind journey and cannot help but admire every step, every moment and every person that has played a hand in bringing you to who you are today.

During this year, I have made memories I will cherish for the rest of my life. Many of which are full of laughter and brighten my day to think about and others that put me in situations that, while they were difficult to swallow, still brought me inspiration. From laughing my way down the famous Flume ride at Upper Clements Parks in my full ball gown, to meeting a man in palliative care who found so much joy in sharing his love for music. I will forever hold these memories near to my heart and I will share them at every opportunity.

“Honoured by History — Inspired by Change” was a theme that could not have encompassed my experience better. This year has made me feel more empowered than ever as I, alongside 11 other powerful and inspiring young women, have blossomed.

Educated by our history, we are the future of our Valley and I cannot wait to see the brilliant things these 11 women will accomplish.

To these ladies, my Apple Blossom sisters, I owe my biggest thank you for support, 87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

acceptance, laughter and what I know will be 11 new, lasting friendships.

To write a thank you to everyone who has impacted my journey would need a book of its own. To each of you, family and friends, mentors, community members and dedicated volunteers, I cannot express my gratitude. From generous donations, kind words, moral support, countless hours of planning and guidance, I owe my success as a leadership candidate to all of you. Without you, I would not have had the absolute honour of being selected as Queen Annapolisa the 86th.

Again, this year I hope to be joined by many new and familiar smiling faces enjoying the many events of the 87th Apple Blossom Festival. There truly is an event for everyone to enjoy, but most importantly, without all of the community support and enthusiasm, the Apple Blossom Festival would not be a magnificent success year after year. The 87th festival’s theme is “Once a Blossom — Always a Blossom” and I am blessed to be a part of the continuously growing Apple Blossom family.

Yours truly, Kendra Whitehead Canning Queen Annapolisa 86th

Acadia University

welcomes you to the Annapolis Valley and the Apple Blossom Festival!

acadiau.ca

87th

KingsCountyNS

www.appleblossom.com

@KingsCountyNS

kingscountyns

7

RCMP band marches in the Grand Street Parade.

Photos contributed

Looking ahead to festival fun Apple Blossom Festival brings in summer in the Annapolis Valley

by Suzanne Rent

L

ogan Morse says the planning for the 87th Apple Blossom Festival got started about a month after the 86th edition wrapped up in 2018. Morse, who’s the president of the Apple Blossom Festival, says attendees to this year’s festival can expect the tradition, fun and some new and refreshing twists on events Apple Blossom Festivals have offered.

Morse says he’s also looking forward to good weather.

“I just want sunshine,” Morse says.

“Sunshine makes everyone smile and things go smoother. I know when Apple Blossom time comes, it means I’m getting ready for summer.”

Police escorts lead off the Children’s Parade.

8

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

Town crier Lloyd Smith provides greetings at coronation.

Morse joined the board of directors of the festival in 2016 and this year has taken on the role of president. He says he’s glad to have the opportunity to give back to the community as a volunteer.

“I thought I would have something to offer,” Morse says. “It’s been really fun to be part of. It’s a small gesture that keeps me linked to the Valley. That sense of home is always with me.”

Morse says with new leadership at the helm of the festival, the group is always working on new ideas or giving a fresh look to events the festival hosted in previous years.

The Carnival for Kids will return again this year, after making its debut at the festival in 2018. Morse says the organizers created that event as a way to keep guests entertained between the Children’s Parade and the Grand Street Parade. The Carnival for Kids includes face painting, bouncy castles, food trucks, a petting zoo and more.

As well, the organizers brought back the Antique Car Show and Barbecue in Berwick.

“That exceeded our expectations last year,” Morse says. “We hope to exceed that this year. It’s a good wrap up to the end of festival weekend.”

Another new event making its return is the Blossom Food Truck Party in New Minas. Food trucks from around the province will be on site for a party with music and more.

And finally, Morse says the 89.3 K-Rock Birthday Bash in Memorial Park in Kentville will be a good time. There will be live entertainment that will wrap up with the Apple Blossom fireworks.

MLA Leo Glavine and Courtney Garland, Queen Annapolisa 85th, crown Kendra Whitehead, Queen Annapolisa 86th.

Of course, visitors to the Valley will have a chance to see the leadership candidates in local communities and then at the coronation.

Morse says while he grew up and lives in a small town, the Apple Blossom Festival attracts large crowds.

“It’s a surprise how many people come out from around the province and outside the province for the Apple Blossom Festival,” Morse says.

Morse says many people who visit the Annapolis Valley during Apple Blossom Festival often come back. The provincial visitor information centres open for Apple Blossom weekend, so people have a chance to pick up literature and learn about what’s happening in the Valley the rest of the season. www.appleblossom.com

“It does have a spinoff effect,” Morse says.

Morse grew up in Centreville and now lives in Kentville. He remembers the Apple Blossom Festival when he was a kid. He marched in the Grand Street Parade several times, including when he was a cadet. He remembers the three-kilometre walk, often in the heat of the early summer.

“It can be a long, exhausting day, but at the end of it, you think, ‘Wow, what a good time,’” Morse says.

Morse says the Apple Blossom Festival also inspires people from around the Valley.

“We see everyone come together as one during the festival,” Morse says. “People really have a sense of community pride in the festival as a whole. It really is a coming home for friends who want to get together.”

9

Did you know?

Fun facts about the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

by Denise Surette

O

ver the years, the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival has celebrated marvellous milestones that celebrate the famous Annapolis Valley blossoms, which attract thousands of people to communities from Windsor to Digby.

Here are some fun facts that you may not know about the annual festival, Nova Scotia apples and apple harvesting in the Annapolis Valley. ◗

Apple farming began in the Annapolis Valley with early colonists in the 1600s, reaching some of its busiest years in the early 1900s.

◗ In peak years of apple farming, up to three million barrels of apples were harvested annually. ◗

The first Apple Blossom Festival was held in 1933, when the very first Queen Annapolisa, Mary Armour of Middleton, was crowned.

◗ The Apple Blossom Festival is the only festival in Nova Scotia incorporated by the provincial legislature. ◗ In 2002, the Royal Canadian Mint produced a sterling silver 50-cent piece in honour of the Apple Blossom Festival. ◗ The Apple Blossom Festival parade has never been cancelled because of inclement weather.

◗ Some of the varieties of apples grown in the Annapolis Valley include Cortland, Spartan, McIntosh, Gravenstein and Idared.

◗

Duties of leadership candidates, including those of Queen Annapolisa, continue long after the Apple Blossom Festival is over. Candidates travel and attend events throughout the year.

◗

In 1939, the Apple Blossom Festival had 30 people on its volunteer executive committee. Now, the executive team has just eight members, but the planning phase is twice as long.

◗ More than 50 volunteers work all year long to keep the Apple Blossom Festival running each year.

◗

On the Monday following the end of the festival, leadership candidates go on a Royal Tour to visit nursing homes, schools and community centres across the Annapolis Valley to thank community members for their support.

◗ Queen Annapolisa is traditionally crowned at Convocation Hall on the Acadia University campus.

◗ At least 10 crowns have been used for the Queen Annapolisa coronation, with the latest introduced in 2017.

◗ Communities from across the entire Annapolis Valley are involved in the festival, from Windsor all the way to Digby. ◗

◗

The Apple Blossom Grand Street Parade is one of the largest and best attended parades in Canada, attracting nearly 100,000 people every year. It runs from New Minas to Kentville.

More than 150,000 people collectively attend the activities and events throughout the week of the Apple Blossom Festival.

◗ The Apple Blossom Festival is funded by donations, sponsorships and grants. ◗ The 2018 Grand Street Parade was the largest in festival history, with more than 150 entries. ◗

◗

In 1982, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the festival, the carriage used for the first Queen Annapolisa, Mary Armour, was brought out of storage and added into the festivities.

◗

In 1944, Queen Annapolisa Sgt. Christina Crowell was crowned and all of her ladies in waiting were enlisted privates in the Second World War. That year’s festival was a tribute to women in the military.

Apple blossoms range in colour from white to various shades of pink, depending on the type of apple tree. Blossoms can change colour throughout the duration of the apple blossom season.

Mary Armour of Middleton was crowned the first Queen Annapolisa in 1933.

The carriage used for the first Queen Annapolisa was brought out of storage and added into the festivities for the 50th anniversary of the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival in 1982.

10

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

Get to know Dan D. Apple Q & A with the official mascot of the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival Q: What is your favourite part of the Apple Blossom Festival?

Q: What type of apple are you?

A: I’m a McIntosh apple, of course!

Q: What is your favourite type of apple?

A: My favourite part of the festival is the Grand Street Parade! All of that waving can be tiring, though.

A: Gravenstein apples are my favourite.

Q: What do you like to do when it’s not festival time?

Q: What types of activities do you attend during the festival and where can people see you?

A: I spend a lot of time getting shined up and ready for the next Apple Blossom Festival. And sometimes I have to get myself a new pair of shoes from all the walking I do!

A: I attend all kinds of events during the festival! From community visits with leadership candidates, to the Carnival for Kids, to Scotian Gold Family Fun Day!

87 th Annual

APPLE BLOSSOM YARD SALE Friday May 31st Closed Saturday for staff to partake in festivities

Q: How did you get your name?

A: The Nova Scotia Fruit Growers’ Association gave me my name.

Q: How long have you been involved in the festival?

A: I’ve been involved in the festival since I was just a tiny apple!

Q: What do you want people to know about the festival?

A: I want people to know that the Apple Blossom Festival is a time for everyone, young and old, to get involved and enjoy all of the lovely things that the Annapolis Valley has to offer!

Dan D. Apple can be seen all over the Annapolis Valley during the Apple Blossom Festival.

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11

LEADERSHIP REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

Annapolis Royal Berwick Zeynep Tonak Zeynep Tonak is the 19-yearold daughter of Josephine Courtenay. A fierce advocate for progress, social issues and economic growth, Zeynep has a worldview that there is always more that can be done and learned. Zeynep is studying at the University of King’s College, planning to pursue a career in activism and lobbying. Zeynep is firm in her desire to invoke change and growth by participating in the Apple Blossom Leadership Competition, spreading a message of empowerment and respect.

Zeynep has volunteered and was involved in the planning of Annapolis Royal’s first Pride Day, as an alumnus of the NSSSA leadership association, and works as a peer support at her university. Passionate about the growth of her Valley community, Zeynep is committed to leading by example.

Annapolis Royal, one of the most historic places in North America, is known as the cradle of our nation. Located in Mi’kmaqi, the ancestral lands of the Mi’qmaq who have been here for thousands of years, the town dates back to 1605 when French settlers founded Port Royal.

Originally the capital of Nova Scotia until 1749, it now offers a one-of-a-kind mix of urban and rural amenities within a peaceful and busy small town. Its historic significance and heritage is displayed by many B&Bs, the arts community, including King’s Theatre, artist studios and galleries, award-winning Historic Gardens, the breathtaking Fort Anne National Park and Oqwa’titek Ampitheatre. These are just a few things that make us Annapolis Royal! Much can be found in a two-kilometre radius.

We invite you to spend the day with us! www.annapolisroyal.com

Madison Perry Madison Perry is the 20-yearold daughter of Mark (Janice) Perry and Paula (Merrill) Buglar. Madison graduated in 2018 from NSCC Kingstec Campus with a diploma in tourism and hospitality management and will be continuing her studies this fall at Mount Saint Vincent University. Madison recently returned from Europe, where she completed a work experience term and travelled through Spain and Portugal. Her travels led her home to Berwick, the community she was born and raised in, and she is passionate about showing people the beauty that the Annapolis Valley has to offer.

In her spare time, Madison enjoys volunteering in her community, acting as a role model for youth in the Town of Berwick’s new multisport program and exploring new and exciting places with family and friends.

Berwick boasts new and expanding residential and commercial development; expanding recreational services and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Noted as the “Apple Capital” and the “fastest-growing town” in Nova Scotia, residents and visitors populate Berwick’s unique shops and participate in the festivals, events and activities. Recognized for its strides in green and alternative resource energy, most notably for Berwick Electric and the Ellershouse Wind Farm, the town was awarded the Climate Change Leaders Award by the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities in 2017. The family-orientated community, the strong volunteer base and the pride in being a Berwickan make this community a most desirable place. Have you been to Berwick lately? Come! We are growing and we are amazing! www.berwick.ca

Have You Been to

Com

Wi App #berwicktothecore 12

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

CANDIDATES REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

Coldbrook Kallie Allen Kallie Allen is a resident of the Coldbrook area. Kallie is the 19-year-old daughter of Kim and Todd Allen.

She graduated from Northeast Kings Education Centre in 2017 with honours.

Kallie has strong intentions of returning to school to continue her degree in nursing. Kallie has been involved with numerous clubs and committees throughout her education, including student council and being the assistant captain for the Northeast Kings female hockey team. Kallie is currently volunteering as a coach for the Acadia Minor Hockey league, as well as for the Benefit for Wanda Redden Diagnosed with ALS fundraiser. She is passionate, enthusiastic and honoured about her role as leadership candidate and to represent her community well in all future endeavours.

Digby

The small community of Coldbrook is located on the Cornwallis River and since 1986 has seen substantial population growth. Coldbrook is a popular pit stop for people venturing through the Annapolis Valley and with a provincial park not far away, makes for a great place to have a picnic. One major hallmark of Coldbrook is Scotian Gold Cooperative Ltd., which has roots that run back to 1912, when a group of local fruit growers formed The United Fruit Companies of Nova Scotia.

Today, Scotian Gold is a growerowned co-operative, controlled by 30 members. It stores and packs 50 per cent of the province’s apple production and is the largest operation of its kind in Eastern Canada. Scotian Gold also serves as a retail hub, selling things such as seed, clothing and equipment to local growers and farmers. www.scotiangold.com

Taylor Wood Taylor Wood is the 18-yearold daughter of Justin and Suellen Wood of the Town of Digby.

She graduated in 2018 from Digby Regional High School and proudly received the Memorial Cup and the Leadership Award. Taylor is currently completing her first year at Memorial University of Newfoundland Grenfell Campus. She is working toward a major in computational mathematics with a minor in chemistry. Aside from her studies, Taylor spent her spare time playing for the Grenfell Women’s Volleyball team and volunteering with the Mini Warriors volleyball program. When in Digby, you can find her spending time with friends and family and working as a day camp counsellor for Digby Area Recreation Commission. Taylor is honoured to be the representative for her beautiful home community, Digby.

The Municipality of the District of Digby features breathtaking shorelines, the world’s highest tides, fishing villages, worldfamous scallops and welcoming residents. Scallop Days will be celebrated with scallop dishes, local vendors, a scallop-shucking and net-knitting competition for local fisherman, the Grand Street Parade and the crowning of a new Scallop Days Queen.

Wharf Rat Rally, the largest motorcycle rally in Atlantic Canada, will welcome thousands of riders to the area. Other summer events include Lobster Bash, Weymouth Canada Day and the Bear River Cherry Carnival. We welcome you to the Municipality of the District of Digby, the Pearl of the Fundy, to see the best a coastal rural community has to offer! www.digbydistrict.ca www.digbyscallopdays.ca www.wharfratrally.com www.digbytrails.ca

o Berwick Lately?

me! Be amazed!

ishing everyone a memorable ple Blossom Festival weekend!

Proud to be ‘Home’ for the Valley Wildcats!

www.berwick.ca www.appleblossom.com

13

LEADERSHIP REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

Hantsport Rachel Coldwell Rachel Coldwell is the 21-year-old daughter of Todd and Christine Coldwell. She graduated from Fredericton High School in 2015. After moving back home to the Annapolis Valley, Rachel began attending Acadia University. Currently, Rachel is working toward becoming involved in chaplaincy. Although she did not spend her school years in Hantsport, the community of Hantsport was her second home, while living in New Brunswick. Rachel was glad to be given the opportunity to help fix up the memorial garden in Hantsport, while volunteering with her church. In her spare time, Rachel is volunteering with children in her church and taking part in local theatre. Rachel is excited to be representing the community of Hantsport, the community that was a big part of her growing into the person she is today.

Kentville

Hantsport, “The Haven of Hospitality,” is the largest of small townships between Mount Denson and Avonport and boasts the quintessential small-town living. Home to a wonderful business community, public school and library, among its numerous other amenities, Hantsport boasts being home to the Shamrocks baseball team. There are parks, sports fields, a historic community centre and numerous recreation facilities and sports fields to enjoy. The Hantsport Music Festival is the main sponsor of the Hantsport leadership candidate, and a candidate would not be able to partake if it were not for their kind generosity. The group that organizes this premier event do so out of pride for Hantsport — championing the community and giving all the profits to a select group of local volunteer organizations. Plan to visit Hantsport July 20, 2019, to “Have a Time.” Look for Community of Hantsport on Facebook.

Miriam Brathwaite Miriam Brathwaite is the 19-yearold daughter of Alison and Trevor Brathwaite of Kentville. After graduating from Northeast Kings Education Centre in 2018 as an honours student, she began her education at the University of Prince Edward Island in the department of kinesiology. Miriam has been a resident of Kentville since 1999 and is a valued member of the Kentville community. She is heavily involved in volunteerism and has volunteered for many organizations, including Evergreen Nursing Home, Kentville United Baptist Church Vacation Bible School and Girl Guides of Canada.

Miriam has received multiple awards from Girl Guides of Canada and was selected to attend the Summer Catapult Leadership Camp in 2015. Miriam loves being a part of her community and is looking forward to meeting new people and creating lasting memories.

Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce promotes and supports business in the Annapolis Valley.

Few people know that the Apple Blossom Festival came into being in 1932 at the instigation of the Kentville Board of Trade, the originating body of AVCC. While you are enjoying the Apple Blossom Festival, please support our member businesses.

For more information about our chamber or to explore tourism opportunities in our area visit our website.

www.annapolisvalleychamber.ca

14

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

Kentville, the premier recreation destination in the Annapolis Valley, is home to trails, protected wetland marshes, bird sanctuaries, fields, riversides and is truly a “Breath of Fresh Air.” Visit the Pumpkin People Festival in the fall and the Devil’s Half Acre Motorcycle Event. The largest Annapolis Valley town, Kentville serves as a professional centre and was ranked by the CFIB as the best place in Atlantic Canada to start up a business. With the highest per capita ratio of professionals in Canada, Kentville is renowned for its restaurants, pubs, cafes and eateries, live theatre, museums and historic sites.

Downtown houses a prosperous business community with merchants that provide unmatched customer service. Kentville boasts an LEED certified school, park complexes and recreation facilities within walking distance, which makes living in Kentville a pleasure and doing business easy. www.Kentville.ca

Zeynep Tonak 87

CANDIDATES REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

Kingston Katelyn Charlton Katelyn Charlton is the 20-yearold daughter of John and Cindy Charlton of Kingston. In 2017, Katelyn graduated from West Kings District High School, receiving honours with distinction, a French immersion completion certificate and diplome d’éudes en langue francaise, the Elsie Jean Lambert Memorial Scholarship, subject award in biology and Dalhousie University entrance scholarship. Katelyn is attending Dalhousie University and is enrolled in a bachelor of science with a major in microbiology and immunology. While at West Kings, Katelyn served on student council and, during her final year, was the yearbook editor. Katelyn has been involved with the community as a member of the Kingston/Greenwood Community Health Board and a junior volunteer with the Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. Katelyn lets her creative side shine through in her painting and sketching, as well as being an avid photographer.

New Minas

Kingston was officially incorporated in 1957 and has enjoyed steady growth through the years.

While in the Kingston area, visitors can enjoy the Stronach Park and Fitness Trail along with McMaster Hill Historic Park. Kingston’s neighbouring village of Greenwood is home to a Canadian Forces base and also includes an aviation museum and larger local shopping district.

Kingston celebrates the Annual Steer BBQ every year. It is the oldest continuous running barbecue of its kind in the world. The event has grown over the years, adding parades, entertainment and sporting events to the list, but the barbecuing of a whole steer is still central to the celebration.

Kingston will hold its 60th Annual Steer BBQ from July 11 to 14, 2019. www.kingstonnovascotia.ca

Emily Guptill Emily Guptill is the 22-year-old daughter of Kelly and Tracey Guptill. She graduated from Horton High School in 2015 with honours and from the continuing care (CCA) program at NSCC Kingstec in 2017 with honours.

Emily is completing her first year in the practical nursing program at NSCC Kingstec. She was the recipient of four scholarships. Emily has volunteered at several fundraisers and nursing homes for her health-care courses. She hopes to work at the Valley Regional Hospital or IWK Health Centre upon completion of her LPN program in June 2020.

Emily plays the clarinet and was a member of concert band throughout high school. Emily enjoys spending time with her family and friends, travelling and photography.

New Minas was founded by Acadians from a settlement known as Les Mins, or Minas, for the French copper mines found near the Minas Basin. Built beside Oak Island, the Acadians turned the tidal marshes into farmland until they were expelled by the British. The area was later resettled by New England Planters in 1760. Previously an agriculture centre, New Minas is more commercialized, being recognized as the retail centre for the eastern Annapolis Valley, while home to more than 4,000 residents. Known as the soccer capital of Atlantic Canada, New Minas has many beautiful soccer fields. Adjacent to Lockhart Ryan Memorial Park is the Louis Millett Community Complex, offering residents several amenities. Join New Minas as they celebrate New Minas Days in August and their annual Canada Day celebration. www.newminas.com

West Hants Welcomes you to the

VILLAGE OF

87th Apple Blossom Festival

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LEADERSHIP REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY OF

Windsor Jessica Patenaude Jessica Patenaude is the 20-year-old daughter of Karen Bradley and Robert Patenaude. She grew up in Brooklyn and graduated from Avon View High School in 2017. Jessica began attending Acadia University this past fall, taking community development. She wishes to pursue a career in recreation. She enjoys working with children and youth. The past four years, she has been involved with Windsor Recreation as a program leader and summer manager in 2018.

Some of her hobbies include playing soccer, skateboarding and photography.

In 2016, she was recognized as youth volunteer for Windsor Recreation. She has been involved with her church, is a soccer coach, bowling coach and is involved with many special events around Windsor. Jessica is always enthusiastic to try new things and is thrilled to be representing Windsor and the region.

Wolfville

With its heritage steeped in industry, arts and sport, the Town of Windsor, the birthplace of hockey, is a must-visit destination.

Windsor was originally known as Pesaquid, a Mi’kmaq term meaning ‘junction of waters,’ and saw French settlement around 1685, with a permanent British settlement beginning in 1749.

Incorporated in 1878, Windsor was a major port for shipping and shipbuilding during the Age of Sail. The later creation of a manmade lake is now home to the Pisiquid Canoe Club. The town offers numerous recreational programs and community facilities, including an 18-hole golf course, Ski Martock and Long Pond, where the first game of hockey was played around 1800 by the boys of Kings College.

Special events include Avon River Days and the Hants County Exhibition. World travellers come to see giant pumpkins and enjoy the annual Regatta. www.town.windsor.ns.ca

Chantal Peng Chantal Peng is the 19-yearold daughter of Jianan and Gwen Peng. Chantal graduated from Horton High School in 2018 with honours with distinction as the recipient of the Lieutenant Governor Education award. Chantal is enrolled as a music student at Acadia University.

She travelled to Ghana in West Africa as a Plan International Canada youth advocate, is a Kings Youth councillor and a Nova Scotia Youth Volunteer of the Year nominee. Chantal volunteers in her community by organizing benefit concerts, food drives and facilitating social justice workshops. Chantal loves playing the piano. She received first prize at the national Canadian Music Competition, was invited to play at Carnegie Hall and currently serves as the organist for St. James Anglican Church. Her hobbies include reading and enjoying Wolfville’s walking trails.

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Wolfville is a small town with a vibrant and welcoming personality! There are endless things to do, from watching the highest tides in the world at Waterfront Park, to enjoying cool shops, craft breweries, a cidery and many eclectic restaurants downtown.

Home to Acadia University, the town has a vibe that appeals to young and old. Wolfville’s Visitor Information Centre is a bus stop for the Wolfville Magic Winery Bus. Art enthusiasts appreciate Uncommon Common Art installations all summer long. Live music can be heard year-round, especially during Deep Roots Music Festival. Wolfville is a Cittaslow town with a worldrenowned food and film festival, Devour!, and is also home to the Valley Harvest Marathon. There’s something about Wolfville that is satisfying to the furthest depths of your soul. www.wolfville.ca

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

CANDIDATES The Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival Board of Directors would like to thank all of our festival volunteer organizations, partners and individual volunteers.

It wouldn’t be possible without you! Thanks!

Find the 3 hidden blossoms in the souvenir edition to be entered to WIN an Apple Blossom Prize Package which includes: Apple Blossom swag and two tickets to any 88th Apple Blossom Festival event!

Contest runs until June 8, 2019.

Please enter by filling out the form below and sending it by mail to: Unit 8, 325 Main Street, Kentville, N.S., B4N 1K5 or by e-mailing a copy to: info@appleblossom.com The blossom to look for...

NAME: PHONE: E-MAIL: PAGE #’S OF THE 3 BLOSSOMS:

A winner will be selected and notified on June 15, 2019.

www.appleblossom.com

17

Apple Blossom Festival volunteers go the distance

by Suzanne Rent

D

ozens of volunteers work yearround to organize and host the Apple Blossom Festival, the six days that are a kickoff to summer in the Annapolis Valley.

Angela Pelton is on the board of directors for the Apple Blossom Festival. This is her eighth year in the role. She’s in charge of leadership, protocol and transportation.

She says there are about 50 volunteers, including board members, who make Apple Blossom Festival a reality each year.

Now, as the leadership director, Pelton guides all the leadership candidates through the process, teaching them about public speaking and etiquette. Pelton stays with the leadership candidates during the six days they spend at the Old Orchard Inn and Spa, acting as their chaperone up to the coronation. She says it’s the highlight of the festival for her, calling those six days her “vacation.”

“I am dubbed their festival mother,” Pelton says. “When you’re with people for six days, you sleep, eat and travel on the bus together. It’s a neat bond.”

Pelton, who grew up in Aylesford, has always loved the Apple Blossom Festival.

She remembers going to the festival when she was younger. One of her aunts would take Pelton and a few cousins to the festival for a day. Her daughter Katelyn won Princess Hantsport in 2008.

“I’ve always had a passion for it,” Pelton says. “I enjoyed all the pomp and circumstance and getting together with friends and family.”

Pelton has worked as a community representative for Hantsport since 2004. In that role, she helped the leadership candidate for the community, guiding them along the process, helping with their resume, public speaking skills and more.

Pelton says the spirit and support of the festival has followed her beyond the days of the festival itself. In 2014, Pelton suffered

18

a cardiac arrest and was on life support for three days. When she woke up, the ledge of the windows in her hospital room was filled with flowers, cards and gifts from leadership candidates.

(Top photo) Angela Pelton (right), a longtime volunteer with the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival, poses with Micha Saade, Queen Annapolisa 2013, during Wolfville’s Mud Challenge.

Angela Pelton (left) gets a big kiss from fellow Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival volunteer and board member Steffany Cox-Lingard.

“It was incredible,” she says. “It was overwhelming.”

Then, two years ago, Pelton was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had the biopsy the first day she moved into the Old Orchard Inn and Spa with the leadership candidates.

Again, she was surrounded by support.

87th Apple Blossom Festival • May 29–June 3, 2019

“It’s like a family,” Pelton says. “It’s unlike any volunteer experience I ever had.”

There are also 13 community representatives that volunteer their time guiding their community’s leadership candidate through the process and eventually onto coronation.

Claudia Crocker recently took on the role of community representative for the Municipality of Digby.

She was Princess for the Municipality of Digby in 2018 and the 2017 Scallop Days Queen. Her own community representative had to resign when she ran as princess, so she decided to step up this year. She’s hoping to share bits of advice she would have liked when she was a leadership candidate.

“I like the fact I can guide the candidates in a better direction,” Crocker says. “I want to make sure our girls are prepared for what it takes.”

This year, Crocker will be community representative for Taylor Wood, who is Princess of the Municipality of Digby.

Crocker is also volunteering as the director of princess affairs for Digby Scallop Days. That means she’s doing a bit of double duty as a volunteer. But she says volunteering has given her a whole new perspective on what goes on behind the scenes at events.

“We need to support the festival, especially one that represents such a large part of the province,” Crocker says. “I think it’s such an incredible experience to be part of.”

Pelton agrees. She says she can’t count how many volunteer hours are completed to organize the festival, from everyone on the board of directors, to the people who help on the route during the Grand Street Parade.

“We all persevere,” Pelton says. “We’re all there for a common goal and that’s for the festival to go ahead again next year.”

A toast to the Valley Cheers to apple cider cocktails

T

he local cider movement is gaining legions of fans for its Valley-fresh flavours, but you don’t have to only enjoy them on their own. Local apple cider, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can also make for a crisp, tart and tangy base that’s perfect for cocktails now and as we move into the summer.

CHAI VANILLA FLOAT 2 SERVINGS

A BREAK IN THE CHAIN FLOAT 2 SERVINGS

• 2 scoops French vanilla ice cream • 1 can Sid’s Chai Spice Cider • Caramel sauce, for garnish • Cinnamon sticks, for garnish

• 2 scoops lemon sorbet • 6 lemon triangles • 2 tbsp basil mint syrup (see below) • 1 can Chain Yard Foundation Cider • Basil, for garnish

À LA MODE MOCKTAIL 2 SERVINGS

Directions: Place a scoop of ice cream in each of two wineglasses. Top with Sid’s Chai Spice Cider. Garnish each with a little caramel sauce and a cinnamon stick.

• 1 cup non-alcoholic apple cider, chilled • 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup (see below) • 2 scoops vanilla ice cream

WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT 2 SERVINGS

Directions: Combine apple cider and simple syrup. Mix. Divide cider mixture amongst two glasses. Top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. *Place 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a pot set over high heat. Bring to a boil. When the sugar dissolves, remove from heat. Add 2 cinnamon sticks. Let steep for 15 minutes.

Strain. Let cool completely. Refrigerate until ready to use.

• 2 scoops raspberry or cranberry sorbet • 1 bottle No Boats on Sunday Cranberry Rosé Cider • Mint, for garnish • Fresh raspberries or cranberries, for garnish

Directions: Place a scoop of sorbet in each wineglass. Top each with equal amounts of cider. Garnish with fresh mint and a few raspberries or cranberries.

www.appleblossom.com

Directions: Place a scoop of sorbet in each of two wineglasses. Add 3 lemon triangles to each glass. Drizzle a tablespoon of syrup over each scoop of sorbet. Top each with equal amounts of the cider. Garnish each with fresh basil.

*Place 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a pot set over high heat. Bring to a boil. When the sugar dissolves, remove from heat. Add 4 basil and 4 mint leaves. Let steep for 15 minutes.

Strain. Let cool completely. Refrigerate until ready to use.

19

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