ARTS | CULTURE | COMMUNITY February 2022 | Issue No. 19.02
ON THE COVER: WOLFVILLE WEDDING CHAPEL, P. 7
ZERO-PROOF: BLENDING TEA HERBS, P. 6
DINNER OUT: DICKIE BAXTER’S BISTRO & TAPROOM, P. 11
WHO’S WHO: THE HONOURABLE DR. DON OLIVER, P. 5
MIKE UNCORKED: WOLFVILLE’S QUEER/TRANS NATURE WALKS, P. 10
CELEBRATING THREE YEARS OF VISUALLY SPEAKING, P. 5
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Thank You For Your Love >>> (again) You voted Tides Art Gallery, “Best Art Gallery” and some of our artists as “Best Visual Artist” or runner-up as “Best Photographer” in the Valley. Thank you.
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Enter the draw for a lucky-in-love couple to win places at the spring workshop: Introduction to
Better Together $150 Couples 30 min. Sauna session & 2 one hour Relaxation Massages With a complimentary Body & Soul sachet to take home
Printmaking by Tides artist, Bob Hainstock
Featured Artist for February is Charlotte Onyschuk of Wolfville. Her artist talk is noon, Wed. Feb. 16, (Covid permitting)
Love Birds $125 2 Chocolate Spa Pedicures with Paraffin Treatment
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36 Cornwallis, Kentville, 10-5 p.m. Wed-Sun. 2 | February 2022
This section works on a first-come, firstserved basis. Email your classified to: listings@grapevinepublishing.ca and, if there's room, we'll get you in. Or, to reserve a placement, pay $5 per issue (3-issue minimum commitment). Please keep listings to 35 words or less.
Issue No. 19.02 February 2022
Classifieds / Margot’s Hidden Gems / Snow Safety ... p.3 Free Will Astrology / Star Drop .............................. p.4 Who’s Who: Dr. Don Oliver ..................................... p.5 Visually Speaking / Bent Ridge Winer .................... p.5 Kentville Fire & Ice / Zero Proof ............................. p.6 Wolfville Wedding Chapel / Poetry ......................... p.7 Wolfville Page ........................................................ p.8 What’s Happening / Tides ...................................... p.9 Books by Locals / Nature Walks ............................p.10 Acadia Woodland Trails .........................................p.10 Dinner Out / African Heritage Month ..................... p.11 Al Whittle Theatre / Acadia Performing Arts .......... p.11
CLASSES & WORKSHOPS: Online Youth Art Lessons: 7Arts Greenwood will be hosting online Youth Art Lessons (YAL) during the month of Feb, 7–9pm, Tuesday for ages 8 to 12 and Thursday for teens, ages 13+, $25 per lesson or 4 at $80. INFO: @AmberNoellaArt, Facebook 7Arts for more info. In-Person Piano & Voice Lessons: Susan Dworkin is a resident of Wolfville and for the past 30 years has offered professional, qualified music education to children and adults of all ages. Susan is a professional classical singer and pianist and instructs voice and piano technique. (special Covid-19 protocol in place for everyone’s safety and protection). Limited space. Call for details. INFO: susanlisadworkin@gmail.com / 902-300-1001 / armonicomusicstudio.com
DONATE/VOLUNTEER: The Revival Shop: @ Hantsport Baptist Church: Excellent way to recycle good used seasonal clothing. Donate/shop during open hours: Mon. 9am–12pm, Tues. 2–4pm, Wed. 2–4pm, Thurs. 6–8pm, Sat. 10am–12pm. Free will donation only for all items. INFO: Call Shirley, 902-684-3563
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MARCH 31 ISSUE: Mon. Mar. 21, 2022
CONTRIBUTORS: Margot Bishop, Mike Butler, Scott Campbell, François Côté, Margaret Drummond, Anna Horsnell, Bernard Irvin, Emily Leeson, Avery Peters, Melanie Priesnitz DELIVERIES: Margot Bishop, Earle & Karen Illsley, Robert Knee, Andrea Leeson, John Morrison, Julie and Mugen Page, Fred Phillips, Sam Rhude, Mark Rogers, Lorna Williamson
SINGLE BLOCK $45 - $62 DOUBLE BLOCK $88 - $123 FOUR BLOCK $168 - $237 HALF PAGE $427 - $624 ARTS EVENT POSTER $76 - $117
SNAIL MAIL: Grapevine Publishing, PO Box 2262 Wolfville, NS, B4P 1A0 ALSO AVAILABLE ONLINE: grapevinepublishing.ca and issuu.com/thevalleygrapevine
WINDSOR: Fry Daddy’s, Lisa's Cafe, T.A.N. Coffee, Mosaic Market FALMOUTH: Fruit & Vegetable Company, Petro-Canada HANTSPORT: Jim's Your Independent Grocer AVONPORT: Cann’s Kwik-Way GRAND-PRÉ: Convenience Store, Domaine de Grand Pré, Just Us! Café GASPEREAU: Gaspereau Vineyards, Reid's Meats & Kwik-Way, XTR Kwik-Way WOLFVILLE: Carl's Your Independent Grocer, Eos Natural Foods, Just Us! Café, T.A.N. Coffee, Library, Wolfville Farmers' Market GREENWICH: Avery’s Farm Market, Edible Art Cafe, Elderkin's Farm Market, Hennigar's Farm Market, Noggins Corner Farm Market, Stirling's PORT WILLIAMS: Fox Hill Cheese House, Planters Ridge, Sea Level Brewery, The Noodle Guy
Interior Painting and Cabinets: Women in Rollers is the Valley’s full-service decorating company. We do accurate quotes, show up on time, and perform to perfection. We even leave your home neat and tidy! We have great references! Complimentary design and colour consultations. Call today for your free estimate. INFO: Pamela, 902-697-2926
GENERAL: Adult Skating: Come enjoy a skate with fellow adults at the Kentville Centennial Arena from 9:30–10:30am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All participants must answer/pass screening questions and sign in upon entry. Mask must be worn until you are on the ice! FEE: $3 INFO: 902-679-2542 / kentville.ca Wolfville & Area Newcomers Club: Visit our website wolfvillenewcomers.org or Facebook page “Wolfville and Area Newcomers Club” for meeting information. Submit Your Recipes!: Many of us have been introduced to cooking during the pandemic and others refined our talents. I am putting together a cookbook to showcase our accomplishments! If you would like to participate, please submit your recipe. Also, please tell me if you are interested in a brief interview to go along with the recipe. INFO: jenniferaegraham@gmail.com Looking for Housing: Young employed Mexican seeking to share apartment or house around Kentville area. Spanish lessons. Responsible. INFO: phillipscw57@gmail.com
EXHIBITS: Paintings by Farron-Leigh Sharp: Jack’s Gallery, 450 Main St, Wolfville. Now through March 5. INFO: jacksgallerywolfville@gmail.com
MARGOT’S HIDDEN GEMS DEPENDING ON THE COMMITMENT LENGTH & COLOUR OPTIONS, RATES RANGE FROM:
ADVERTISING: sales@grapevinepublishing.ca GENERAL INQUIRIES: info@grapevinepublishing.ca CONTENT SUBMISSIONS: editor@grapevinepublishing.ca EVENTS/CLASSIFIEDS: listings@grapevinepublishing.ca
WHERE TO FIND US
Got Mice?: Do you have a MOUSE problem? Or do you Got Mice?: Do you have a MOUSE problem? Or do you have a HOUSE problem? Got Mice Humane Wildlife Services addresses common and uncommon entry points permanently with guaranteed results. Call for a consultation. INFO: 902-365-MICE (6423) / GOTMICE.CA Hands to Work – Your Local Carpenter: My services include: carpentry, window and door installation, flooring including restoration and finish, interior and exterior trim, framing, drywall and painting, cabinetry and countertop installation. INFO: davidkeating41@gmail.com / 902-300-7440
Little Piggies Reflexology: Starting Mid-January we are offering full sessions of “STRUCTURAL REFLEXOLOGY” at 1/2 price. Currently needing case studies with foot pain issues like Bunions, plantar fasciitis and many more. Email for eligibility, dates, times and cost. INFO: littlepiggiesreflexology@gmail.com Traditional Chinese Medicine: Combining Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology to enhance your wellness. 20 years experience! Specializing in Anxiety and Depression, Insomnia, Menstrual and Menopausal issues, Digestive health, Ear Acupuncture for Addictions. INFO: Jane Marshall D.TCM, D.Ac located at 112 Front St, Suite 209, Wolfville. 902-404-3374 janemarshallacupuncture.ca Professional Branding, Logo and Web Design, Writing, Translation, & Training: Helping you convey your message effectively since 2006. We offer a remarkably responsive, dependable, and results-driven approach. INFO: 902-691-2932 / michaelgabrielcommunications.com Wood Flooring Restoration and Repair: Make your old floors beautiful again! Sanding, refinishing and repairing hard and soft wood floors. Call for a quote! INFO: 902-542-0664 or 902-300-5903 / stevenrhude13@hotmail.com Errands by Karen Home Blood Collection: Are you busy with holiday preparations or can’t get an appointment at the lab? Let Karen come to you! Certified medical lab tech with over 30 years experience. CoVid protocols and screening in effect. Karen will also take you shopping or run those errands for you. Please call or email to book an appointment. INFO: 902-790-2626 / errandsbykaren@hotmail.com Get it Published!: Editing and design of books, covers, posters, brochures, and more. E-books too! Reasonable rates and ultra-reliable service. INFO: david@textanddesign.com / textanddesign.com
CANNING: Degraaf's Kwik-Way, ValuFoods, i scream NEW MINAS: Boston Pizza, Captain Sub, Irving Big Stop, Jessy's Pizza, Long and McQuade, Milne Court Petro-Canada, Pita Pit, Swiss Chalet KENTVILLE: Half Acre Café, Jason’s Your Independent Grocer, T.A.N. Coffee, Valley Regional Hospital COLDBROOK: Access Nova Scotia, T.A.N. Coffee, Callister's Country Kitchen, Foodland, Vicki's Seafood Restaurant BERWICK: Jonny's Cookhouse, Luigi's Pizza Palace, North Mountain Coffeehouse, Rising Sun Natural Foods, Union Street Café, Wilsons Pharmasave AYLESFORD: Chisholm's PharmaChoice KINGSTON: French Bakery, Pharmasave, Green Elephant GREENWOOD: Country Store, Tim Hortons (Central Ave + Mall), Valley Natural Foods MIDDLETON: Angie’s, Goucher’s, Wilmot Frenchy’s, Tim Horton, Library
Margot Bishop
The ‘gems’ for this month are the people of our wonderful Valley. We come from everywhere. The ancient people, the Mi’kmaq, populated Nova Scotia, and then came the Acadians, Planters, and so on. My family are Planter stock and have been here since 1759. Before that my people were Irish, French, and Flemish. With all the newcomers, we are very varied, and we have all brought with us lots and lots of traditions. What is really fun is that we all have some very funny expressions. A favourite of my mother’s was “everyone to their own taste, said the old lady as she kissed the cow.” What about “it was so hot, you could fry an egg on the pavement”? Also “it was raining cats and dogs.” Crocodile tears, hen’s teeth, bee’s knees, the cats’ pajamas, are all silly phrases
Other things that have become lost or at the very least are confusing are directions. People telling you how to get to there from here will often use places as landmarks that no longer exist. Notable examples include Jawbone Corner (the corner is there but the jawbone is gone), Nolan’s canteen, and the wharf at Baxter’s Harbour. Women of Wolfville did a skit about Nova Scotia directions a few years ago. The people here are all so diversified. Look at the great work done by our service groups, like the Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, The Legion and many more. The church groups also do
their part in keeping our people safe and connected. Our food banks and the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul are all there in times of need. Other groups like the 100 Men and Women (who give a damn) and Kings Point-to-Point are in place and work well because of our remarkable people. Some of our more venerable people are our elderly. Please reach out to an older person and see if they need anything, maybe just a smile. It takes more muscles to frown than it does to smile. Also you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. Expressions—some mean nothing at all, they are just expressions, their history lost to the ages. Remember your source. Wherever you came from: remember you are all precious GEMS.
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KINGS DISTRICT RCMP SAFETY TIPS FOR KIDS PLAYING IN THE SNOW Kings District RCMP would like to advise that as we clean up from a hefty snowfall and pass the middle of snow season, children need to be educated and aware of the dangers of playing in the snow as snow removal equipment clear the area’s roadways and sidewalks. With the past weekend providing a large amount of snow children will become excited about playing, hiking or sliding in the snow and may not be aware of heavy equipment clearing streets, roads and sidewalks. With snow and ice it is difficult for vehicles and heavy equipment to stop and very difficult to see children in the snow or who may be between snow banks.
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that sometimes can be traced back to earlier times and cultures, but mostly not. Many are lost—signs of the times.
Slipshod (adjective): Characterized by a lack of care, thought or organization; disheveled; haphazard.
Please keep in mind the following safety tips: • Stay away from working snow plows and snow blowers • Choose a play area away from roads, fences driveways and water • Wear bright colours when walking or playing in the snow • Take extra caution as motorists may have visibility issues with frost, snow or condensation • Don’t build forts or tunnels near driveways and roads. The tunnels may be destroyed by snowplows without knowing a child may be inside. Tunnels could also collapse • Always try and play in the snow with a friend or with supervision. Tomorrow I will start to be happy. The morning will light up like a celebratory cigar. Sunbeams sprawling on the lawn will set dew sparkling like a cut-glass tumbler of champagne. Tomorrow will end the worst phase of my life.
• Don’t play in roadside or driveway snow banks. • If you cannot see the snow plow driver they cannot see you, please attempt to make eye contact with the driver so they know where you are. Outdoor activities in the snow can be fun and everyone needs some fresh air and activity through the winter months. Please follow these safety tips to assure you are the safest you can be while enjoying the winter outdoors. Kings District RCMP wish everyone a safe winter snow season. For more information please take time to look at sammysnowplow.novascotia.ca/ for more winter safety ideas.
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I will put my shapeless days behind me, fencing off the past, as a golden rind of sand parts slipshod sea from solid land. It is tomorrow I want to look back on, not today. Tomorrow I start to be happy; today is almost yesterday.
Excerpt from “Tomorrow” by Dennis O’Driscoll
February 2022 | 3
© 2022 Rob Brezsny • freewillastrology.com • Horoscopes for the week of February 3rd
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries actor Bette Davis said that if you want to improve your work, you should “attempt the impossible.” That’s perfect advice for you right now. I hope to see you hone your skills as you stretch yourself into the unknown. I will celebrate your forays into the frontiers, since doing so will make you even smarter than you already are. I will cheer you on as you transcend your expectations and exceed your limits, thereby enhancing your flair for self-love. Here’s your mantra: “I now have the power to turn the impossible into the possible and boost my health and fortunes in the process.” TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Ancient Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu wrote, “Opportunities multiply as they are seized.” You’ll be wise to make that your motto during the next five months, Taurus. Life will conspire to bring you more and more benefits and invitations as you take full advantage of the benefits and invitations that life brings. The abundance gathering in your vicinity may even start to seem ridiculously extravagant. Envious people could accuse you of being greedy, when in fact, you’re simply harnessing a crucial rule in the game of life. To minimize envy and generate even more benefits and invitations, be generous in sharing your plenitude. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “’Because there has been no one to stop me’ has been one of the principles of my life,” wrote Gemini author Joyce Carol Oates. “If I’d observed all the rules, I’d never have got anywhere,” said Gemini actor Marilyn Monroe. “Play the game. Never let the game play you.” So advised Gemini rapper and actor Tupac Shakur. “Who I really am keeps surprising me,” declared Gemini author Nikki Giovanni. I propose that we make the previous four quotes your wisdom teachings during the next four weeks. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Your animal symbol is usually the crab. But I propose we temporarily change it to the tardigrade. It’s a tiny, eight-legged creature that’s among the most stalwart on planet Earth—able to live everywhere, from mountaintops to tropical rainforests to the deepest parts of the sea. In extreme temperatures, it thrives, as well as under extreme pressures. Since it emerged as a species half a billion years ago, it has survived all five mass extinctions. I believe you will be as hardy and adaptable and resolute as a tardigrade in the coming months, Cancerian. You will specialize in grit and resilience and determination. PS: Tardigrades are regarded as a “pioneer species” because they take up residence in new and changed environments, paving the way for the arrival of other species. They help create novel ecosystems. Metaphorically speaking, you could be like that. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I regularly ask myself how I can become more open-minded. Have I stopped being receptive in any way? What new developments and fresh ideas am I ignorant of? Have my strong opinions blinded me to possibilities that don’t fit my opinions? In accordance with astrological omens, Leo, I encourage you to adopt my attitude in the coming weeks. For inspiration, read these thoughts by philosopher Marc-Alain Ouaknin: “If things speak to us, it is because we are open to them, we perceive them, listen to them, and give them meaning. If things keep quiet, if they no longer speak to us, it is because we are closed.” VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Like all the rest of us, Virgo, you have limitations. And it’s important for you to identify them and take them into consideration. But I want to make sure you realize you also have fake limitations; you wrongly believe in the truth of some supposed limitations that are, in fact, mostly illusory or imaginary. Your job right now is to dismantle and dissolve those. For inspiration, here’s advice from author Mignon McLaughlin: “Learning too soon our limitations, we never learn our powers.” LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Develop enough courage so that you can stand up for yourself and
4 | February 2022
then stand up for somebody else,” counseled poet and activist Maya Angelou. Author Toni Morrison said, “The function of freedom is to free someone else.” Author and activist Nikki Giovanni wrote, “Everybody that loves freedom loves Harriet Tubman because she was determined not only to be free, but to make free as many people as she could.” I hope the wisdom of these women will be among your guiding thoughts in the coming weeks. As your own power and freedom grow, you can supercharge them—render them even more potent—by using them to help others. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Man, sometimes it takes you a long time to sound like yourself,” testified Miles Davis, one of the most unique and talented jazz trumpeters and composers who ever lived. Popular and successful author Anne Lamott expressed a similar sentiment: “I’m here to be me, which is taking a great deal longer than I had hoped.” If those two geniuses found it a challenge to fully develop their special potentials, what chance do the rest of us have? I have good news in that regard, Scorpio. I believe 2022 will be a very favorable time to home in on your deepest, truest self—to ascertain and express more of your soul’s code. And you’re entering a phase when your instinct for making that happen will be at a peak. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In the course of human history, three million ships have sunk to the bottom of the Earth’s seas. At one extreme have been huge vessels, like the Titanic and naval cruisers, while at the other extreme are small fishing boats. Many of these have carried money, gems, jewelry, gold, and other precious items. Some people have made it their job to search for those treasures. I believe there could and should be a metaphorical resemblance between you and them in the coming weeks, Sagittarius. Now is a favorable time for you to hunt for valuable resources, ideas, memories, and yes, even treasures that may be tucked away in the depths, in hidden locations, and in dark places. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “It is astonishing what force, purity, and wisdom it requires for a human being to keep clear of falsehoods,” wrote author Margaret Fuller. That’s the bad news. The good news is that your capacity for exposing and resisting falsehoods is now at a peak. Furthermore, you have a robust ability to ward off delusions, pretense, nonsense, inauthenticity, and foolishness. Don’t be shy about using your superpowers, Capricorn. Everyone you know will benefit as you zero in and focus on what’s true and genuine. And you will benefit the most. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “All things are inventions of holiness,” wrote poet Mary Oliver. “Some more rascally than others.” I agree. And I’ll add that in the coming weeks, holiness is likely to be especially rascally as it crafts its inventions in your vicinity. Here are the shades of my meaning for the word “rascally”: unruly, experimental, mischievous, amusing, mercurial, buoyant, whimsical, and kaleidoscopic. But don’t forget that all of this will unfold under the guidance and influence of holiness. I suspect you’ll encounter some of the most amusing and entertaining outbreaks of divine intervention ever. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The year 1905 is referred to as Albert Einstein’s “Year of Miracles.” The Piscean physicist, who was 26 years old, produced three scientific papers that transformed the nature of physics and the way we understand the universe. Among his revolutionary ideas were the theory of special relativity, the concept that light was composed of particles, and the iconic equation E = mc squared. With that information as a backdrop, I will make a bold prediction: that in 2022 you will experience your own personal version of a Year of Miracles. The process is already underway. Now it’s time to accelerate it. Homework: What is the wisest foolishness you could carry out right now? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com.
WHO’S WHO
THE HONOURABLE DR. DON OLIVER Mike Butler
As a privileged white man in the Annapolis Valley, I’ve never had to fight for my rights. I am gay but I’ve never had to fight for those rights; as many fought for me. I check myself every day and remind myself how privileged I am; not to take it for granted or use it negatively but to be a friend to all. I mis-step sometimes, but I’m human. I’m trying to be the best human I can be. I believe, today, January 24, 2022, I spoke with the best of the definition of human: The Honourable Dr. Don Oliver.
erected to honour the Oliver Family.
This Who’s Who is about a Canadian icon of strength, diligence, perseverance, and change. To say it’s an honour to share some paragraphs with you about him is an understatement. The Honourable Dr. Don Oliver is a treasure to our nation and to the world for his work in politics, equality, law, and diversity. The list of his accolades is nothing short of mind-blowing with some of his most rewarding including the Order of Canada, the Order of Nova Scotia, the Canada 150 Medal for Unselfish Service to Community and Country, as well as both Queen Elizabeth II Diamond and Jubilee Medals. His CV, filled with degrees, honourary degrees (from five universities), awards, citations and acknowledgements in politics, law, and civil service, is both inspirational and a testament to Dr. Oliver’s hard work and dedication to making our world a better place.
While attending Acadia University Dr. Oliver was a member of many campus groups and clubs, including The Athenaeum, where in 1958 he became first the news editor and then the associate editor. After graduating as class valedictorian, Don received the first Sir James Dunn scholarship to attend Dalhousie Law School. He practised law for 36 years and after an encounter with Premier Robert Stanfield, become involved in political life, holding positions at all levels of government with the Conservative Party, and in 1990 was appointed to the Canadian Senate.
Dr. Oliver has recently released A Matter of Equality, a memoir which chronicles his journey from being the son of a proud custodian working at Acadia University to socializing with President Barack Obama. This book showcases Dr. Oliver’s personal struggles with diversity and equality and how he turned those struggles into working for change instead of accepting life as it was presented. I am a very proud resident of Wolfville and the Oliver name is famous for its legacy and connection with Acadia University. Just saying The Oliver Family sparks inspiration and praise and a sense that no matter what your background is, greatness and positivity can be obtained. Dr. Oliver’s connections with Acadia date back over 100 years with his family producing many Acadia graduates, as well as, cherished employees. The Oliver Family has become one of the most distinguished families of the University. As a history buff, and actor on the Valley Ghost Walks, I was fortunate for the past 14 seasons of our Wolfville Walks to be able to tell a bit about the history of Seminary House, which included speaking about William Oliver. William moved to the Annapolis Valley in 1894, took a maintenance job at Acadia and soon was thought of as faculty because of his hard work ethic. William Oliver’s descendants include his son Clifford, grandson William Pearly Oliver, daughter-in-law Helena White (sister of Portia White) who with Clifford produced three daughters (all Acadia alum) and two sons, David who studied at Acadia before moving to Montreal and Donald Oliver (Acadia graduate, and so much more). If you’re passing by Seminary House on the Acadia campus, there is a beautiful lawn plaque
I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Don Oliver for this article and when asked about his new book: “My target audience is all Canadian people,” Dr. Oliver notes. “This book is to create an inclusive Canada, to build both black and white into a reality, and to break down white privilege. I wanted to paint a realistic picture of growing up black in the 1940s and ‘50s, from being the only black family at Wolfville School to what I’ve achieved today.”
And those last few paragraphs barely scratch the surface of accomplishments for Dr. Oliver. His memoir takes the reader on a journey through those politicial years, and the fascinating life of a pioneer for equality and social well-being. I encourage you all to visit donoliver.ca, read through the accomplishments and accolades that he’s received, and stay up-to-date with his writings. Even in retirement, after a career that I could only dream of, he stays active and involved to keep making change happen. “My book is the start of what I hope will compel readers to push for more equality within our society,” Dr. Oliver continues. “In order to get an equal balance, we both have to do a lot of work. Black and White and all within have to work together.” This book is not just for Canadians of African descent, but for everyone. To read Dr. Oliver’s story is to learn from the life of someone who worked tirelessly for everyone,and it is something very special. You can purchase Dr. Don Oliver’s A Matter of Equality through Nimbus Publishing, nimbus. ca/store/a-matter-of-equality.html, or at local bookstores. Dr. Don Oliver has easily been the most profound, and most decorated person I’ve interviewed for The Grapevine. Dr. Oliver and his legacy have been teaching me for over 25 years, since I walked onto the Acadia campus and heard of his family. Since those days I’ve been an advocate for my LGBTQ community, had many jobs in customer service, stayed active in world events, and now work in both municipal and federal government. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Oliver who, without knowing, influenced my life through his accomplishments and work. I believe in what he believes we all can be. Thank you Dr. Oliver. To know of you, to carry your legacy, and to have had this chance to thank you— that has been my privilege.
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BENT RIDGE WINERY OPENING SEASONAL WEDDING & LIVE MUSIC VENUE Submitted
Bent Ridge Winery in Windsor, Nova Scotia, the closest winery to Halifax, is opening a Wedding and Special Events Pavilion in the summer of 2022 to accommodate the increasing demand for venues in Nova Scotia to host weddings, live music and other special events. The pavilion can welcome up to 150 guests. “Many people have been putting off their weddings and special occasion gatherings for the past couple of years due to the pandemic,” says Bent Ridge Winery owner, Glenn Dodge. “We are getting lots of inquiries now about hosting weddings and events in 2022 and beyond that are larger than we can currently accommodate at the winery. So I mapped out an event space next to the vineyard, put the business plan together, and started building.” Dodge’s “if you build it, they will come” approach is working well already. Since posting about the pavilion on the winery’s social
media in December, Dodge has confirmed a number of wedding bookings for both 2022 and 2023. A Live Music & Dinner series is also being planned for the 2022 summer season, and will be announced in the spring. The Wedding & Event Pavilion is nestled between Bent Ridge’s vineyard and the century-old apple orchard located on the property. It consists of a 60’ x 40’ event tent, a custom-built kitchen and bar, hand-built harvest tables and fire pits, a ceremony space, and a dedicated driveway and parking. Grill-inspired menu options are offered, and guests will enjoy stunning views of the Bent Ridge vineyard and the Avon Valley. Wedding and special event bookings are still available for 2022, but dates are going quickly.
VISUALLY SPEAKING
THREE YEARS AND COUNTING Anna Horsnell
Hello artists, art-lovers, and loyal readers of The Grapevine. This article will be a little different from my usual spotlight on one of the many visual artists living throughout the Valley. This month marks three years since I submitted my first story for what has evolved into “Visually Speaking.” It seems like the perfect time to pause, reflect a bit on the past, and more importantly, look forward to what lies ahead. First, I must say that meeting and interviewing each and every artist has been a privilege and an honour, even though a few of those meetings have had to be by email given the challenges of the past two years. Over forty artists have opened their hearts and shared insights into their background, their creative process, and their hopes for the future. Thank you all. There have been painters and printmakers, sculptors and photographers. Artists have shared their jewellery and pottery, mosaics in glass and mosaics in wood; while still others rebirth discarded materials. There have been exhibits of new work and retrospectives of a life’s work. There’s been conversations with various galleries and makery studios. Emerging artists have shared their goals and more established artists have talked about the evolution of their work. Subjects have covered a wide range from high realism to abstract and everything in between. Styles have been as unique as the artists themselves. It was especially rewarding to give Valley artists a voice in recognizing one of their peers in this past August’s issue highlighting visual arts. A picture is worth a thousand words, or so the saying goes, and I’ve always felt that visual art is simply another way to communicate. The message may be clear or very subtle, but the interpretation of any work of art can vary widely. What I’ve attempted to do with Visually Speaking is give each artist the opportunity to introduce themselves and their art, but to also provide some space to share their thinking behind what they create and why. Here again, purpose varies greatly, but the very act of creation instills the artist’s perspective into their painting or photograph or sculpture.
Melanson Corner by Jeanne Aisthorpe-Smith Courtesy of Harvest Gallery
There may be truth or exaggeration, fine detail or bold simplicity. An artist may share what they see in the world, or express what they want to say about the world. Each voice is unique. Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way, coined the expression “refilling the creative well” when she spoke about how the creative process can sometimes be draining and even exhausting. As a professional artist myself, it has been a wonderful indulgence to meet other artists and listen to their stories. Sometimes we just need to get out of our studios and know we are not alone. Each of the artists I have met have inspired me and refilled my own creative well, and I am always humbled by the talented folks who call the Annapolis Valley home. There’s lots more to come in the year ahead, and I never grow tired of who I’ll meet or what I’ll uncover. While I have stories lined up and ideas galore, I thought it might be fun to also provide readers with the chance to pass on their suggestions and comments. Is there an artist out there who you’d like to know more about? Or perhaps there are artists who have news to share? I’m here to listen. Send your emails to annamaryhorsnell@gmail.com, or check out my website at annahorsnell.ca.
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February 2022 | 5
February 11–14
ZERO-PROOF
HERBAL TEA BLENDING Avery Peters
In university, my then-boyfriend, now-husband, discovered a tea house in Edmonton called “Steeps.” It was on the edge of the U of A campus and catered to the university crowd. It made tea chic. We discovered many new flavours there, not just caffeinated teas, but herbal tisanes as well. We brought tins upon tins home to our study desks. If I wasn’t in my Ikea Poang chair reading, I was at my desk with a tea press, drinking cup after cup, cramming for an exam, my only break being to head to the kitchen to boil more water or to get up and stretch before going to the washroom from drinking all that tea! I was hooked. Whole loose leaf teas and herbs blew me away with taste, I could hardly go back to a tea bag. When we moved to Nova Scotia eight years ago, I began to settle more and develop my pantry with herbs from my own garden and various other herbs I would forage on my bike rides along the rail trail. I also love to try tea blends from others. I was inspired to forage sweet fern thanks to a tea blend from a vendor at the market who combined sweet fern (a common bush around Nova Scotia) and sage. Angie of Sister Lotus Herbal Body Care pointed me in the right direction to find my own sweet fern. I love to see how different people are inspired. Robertson’s Farm and Old
Furrow Farm (if you are looking for delicious locally-crafted teas) both sell tea blends at the market and through WFM2Go and are inspired by what they grow on their farms and what is around them. I like to take this approach as well and to supplement with various other herbs that I purchase. It may seem a little daunting to begin to blend your own teas, but it is totally doable. Taste others’ tea blends. Find what you like. Your own taste will lead you in the right direction. Then begin to try your favourite herbs on their own and you will become more familiar with them. Want a herb to warm you up? There’s probably a reason you and I gravitate towards ginger. Need a herb to cool you off on a hot summer’s day? You would probably intuitively turn to mint. These are some of the more common herbs we are used to in cooking, but once you start tasting herbs in teas, you will remember what you like and will be drawn to them when you need it. I encourage you to start building up your taste memory library for herbs and tisanes. Start small. Don’t feel like you need to learn about a whole bunch of herbs at once. I like to move through the seasons one at a time. Our bodies can crave different herbs through the seasons. Once you know what herbs you are drawn to, you may feel a little daunted about how to measure the amount of herb needed in your teapot or mug. Well, I may sound a little repetitive, but trust your tastebuds! Teas are a
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very forgiving way to experiment with herbs. The worst that can happen is that maybe it is a little bit too strong for you or a little weak-tasting. Try again! Adjust and you are on your way. Last winter I began the practice of regular tea blending. Each night I would prepare a tea based on my mood. I would add a good pinch of this and a small pinch of that and warm up under a blanket on the couch as I first enjoyed the smell wafting as it steeped next to me and then enjoyed it in my mug. As I love to encourage cooking without a recipe, I also love to encourage tea blending without a recipe. In both cases, all you need to know are some basic principles and templates. In her book, The Essential Herbal for Natural Health, Holly Bellebuono describes how tea that is brewed for two to twelve minutes makes a “lightly flavoured, delicious, healing beverage.” Teas that are steeped longer are called infusions, but don’t get caught up in that, just start tasting and enjoying. Bitter herbs require shorter brewing time (two to four minutes) and you will know this once you taste, while other mild herbs can take a longer brewing time of nine to twelve minutes. A model in a post by Mountain Rose Herbs inspired me to blend my own teas more freely and frequently last winter (see blog.mountainroseherbs.com/guide-tea-blending). Once you have tasted a variety of herbs on their
own and you want to start blending more than one herb you can consult this model. Start with a base, then add a supporting herb (which may have a medicinal benefit you are seeking), and finally, add your accent herbs (these herbs are the types where a little goes a long way). You can see some of my favourites below. Keep in mind that these categories can be interchangeable as well. Base Herbs Tulsi Mint Oatstraw or milky oats Chamomile Supporting Herbs Marshmallow Lemon balm Thyme Accent Herbs Orange peel Cardamom Cinnamon Lavender I hope this gives you a good start to your tea journey. Winter is the perfect time to experiment and find out what you gravitate to. If you’re inspired, you will know what you want to forage or grow in your own garden this year. You can plan ahead and have a bountiful harvest that you can dry and save for next winter. And that is where you bring it all full circle as the healing benefits of the herbs go well beyond consuming them.
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6 | February 2022
ON THE COVER: WOLFVILLE WEDDING CHAPEL Emily Leeson
It is February and amidst the flurries and freezing rain, there is also love in the Annapolis Valley air. For couples looking to tie the knot, renew their love, or just put on a bit of a show—the Wolfville Wedding Chapel has been making love come true since 2021. The chapel is the passion project of Sarah Anderson, who also created East Coast Pop Up Weddings. “I’d had the idea of a chapel in the back of my mind for a year or two,” says Anderson. “I’ve been to Vegas, I love colour and kitsch, and I wanted to keep with the one-stop-shopping idea for weddings that has worked so well for me in the past few years.” While this may be the era of tiny events, there’s no skimping on the possibilities of what a wedding can be when done just right, right here in the Annapolis Valley. “Tiny does not mean lesser than,” says Anderson. “What I love about intimate weddings is that they can be completely reflective of the couple—which is how weddings are intended to be, aren’t they? There’s more room for personality, for splurging on the fun bits, and anything small tends to be more ceremony-focused and real. And that’s what’s at the heart of a marriage, isn’t it? Getting married.” Since opening its doors, the Wolfville Wedding Chapel has helped to broaden ideas of what a wedding can be. Whether it’s on a weekend, weekday, in the early hours of the rising sun, or just before a night out on the town, weddings at the chapel are whatever couples want them to be. “The chapel is the ‘church for all,’ so to speak,” says Anderson. “When we look back at the people we’ve married in the last six months, it’s been everyone: culturally diverse, same sex, parents with young children and adult children, folks on their second marriage, couples in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, introverts and extroverts and everyone in between, folks who’ve always wanted to elope, folks who had plans thwarted by COVID, folks looking for the quick and dirty now and the wild party later, etc. But the common thread is people looking for a wedding where they can just be themselves and isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?” The chapel is ready to host a ceremony and celebration—but Anderson says couples who have lived and loved in the time of COVID are even making that timeline their own. There’s always the option of getting married now and partying later. “Who says it all has to happen on the same day? If your time is now, have at it!” she says. “Don’t wait for siblings to fly in from out west, don’t wait for this pandemic to be over. Your family and friends will love you regardless of whether or not they’re on the invite list and they’ll celebrate you afterwards with a party or reception when restrictions allow.”
And whether couples are dreaming of ‘I do’ with friends and family, or planning an even more intimate pas-de-deux, celebrations here in the Valley can continue long after the ceremony. Here are Sarah’s favourite Valley spots to celebrate once your ‘I do’s are done: Baxter’s Harbour: If scenic natural wonders are where you want to start your marital bliss, Baxter’s Harbour Falls won’t disappoint. Accessible via a short trail, you’ll want to check out the tide times before you embark on this little adventure, but once you’ve got the schedule set, this little trek and picnic on site is a picture-perfect way to toast your nuptials!
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edwardjones.ca
Is something missing from your retirement plan?
Annapolis Royal: What isn’t there to love about this gem of Annapolis County. Just far enough away to feel like a little trip, there are scenic spots aplenty for wedding photos, a bustling main street to stroll, and charming B&Bs where you can make a weekend out of it. And if you’re there on a Saturday, the Farmers & Traders Market is worth the trip all on its own! Grand-Pré National Historic Site: Beautiful in any season and steeped in the history of this land, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect spot to take a stroll and kick off your life together. If your honeymoon plans involve a bit of glamping, the site now also features Otentiks for rent. En route, be sure to pause at View Park on Old Post Road for the best view of Cape Blomidon — it’s the view Valley residents say let’s them know they’re home (it also looks beautiful as a wedding photo backdrop!).
Catherine E Metzger-Silver Financial Advisor
22 Cornwallis Street Kentville, NS B4N 2E1 902-681-2300 902-670-8992
When you’re ready to take the leap, the Wolfville Wedding Chapel has a trio of wedding options—each with its own set of delights. Check out all the offerings at wolfvilleweddingchapel.com.
catherine.metzger-silver@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.ca/catherine-metzger-silver
❧ Cover photo (Sarah and Allan) and above photo (Sarah Anderson) by Janette Downie.
MKT-13542-C EXP JUN 2023 © 2021 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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Home Heating A clear blue gem of a January day Annie Mae’s kitchen. Breakfast time – Hooray! She’s looking out her window, I’m taking in the view She turns and says, “That thing’s askew” And clicks her tongue, calculatingly “Neither leaf nor bud, it’s dead and gone The wood would burn with the bark still on And it’s leaning so...precipitously” “Not a whisper of wind, no neighbours around Shall we go lay that big ash down?” She laces her boots, enticingly “Anne Mae”, I say, “I got a maul in the car I got a 260 Stihl with a good straight bar Providing 2-stroke reliability” “Picture it down and the brush hauled away Imagine the scene at the end of the day If we do this... industriously”
“I’d get the wood, you’d get the view It works for me, if it works for you” “Aahh”, she says, “reciprocity” It’s half-past four, and just as we said Chunked, split and stacked in the lee of her shed And all leans to amber in waning daylight Good straight grain and the length just right
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While back at window, sweaters entangled, The satisfied glow of the truly bedraggled Coffee perking, dumplings steaming The makings of a pleasant evening Enter the Muse...insouciantly “Far be it from me, of course, to presume That yard, like this house, has plenty of room Consider what’s coming. A south facing lee Is a fine pretty place for hardwood to be These BTUs, essentially free, Could stay ‘till the spring...comfortably.”
— Bernard Irvin February 2022 | 7
902.542.5767 | wolfville.ca
A cultivated cultivated experience experience for for the the mind, mind, body, body, and and soil. soil. A
IT'S ALMOST TAG TIME!
2022 Dog Tags will soon be available at Town Hall. Licensing your dog provides Animal & Bylaw Services with the information needed to get your dog home.
The dog tag deadline has been extended to Feb. 28. New tags will be available for purchase once Town Hall re-opens to...the public. Owner fines may result for non-licensed dogs.
Blooms Our Community Thought Garden
Spend some time in the Wolfville Blooms Commmunity Thought Garden to learn more about Single Room Occupancy rules and regulations, Short-term Accomodations Guidelines, the Community Alcohol Strategy and more www.wolfvilleblooms.ca 8 | February 2022
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Send your events to listings@grapevinepublishing.ca ***PLEASE CHECK IN ADVANCE TO CONFIRM WHETHER EVENTS ARE STILL TAKING PLACE*** * Shaded events take place weekly or more than once, as noted
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4
Art Gallery — 7 Arts, Greenwood 2–6pm • 7Arts Gallery reopening with paintings, jewelry, art supplies, craft kits and knit shop. Come in to discover your creative side at the MakersSpace for more info 7arts@7arts.ca TIX: various prices INFO: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca Guy Paul — Crystany’s Brasserie, Canning 6–8pm • Guy Paul Thibault is the essence of the east coast music scene: A song, a story, and a laugh. All while his guitar never stops. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-582-3663 / crystanysbrasserie@gmail.com Celebrate Recovery — New Hope Wesleyan, Kingston 7–9:30pm. WEEKLY! • A faith based 12-Step program for all who need help with hurts, habits & hangups. Are you struggling with broken relationships, stress, anger, fears, addictions? All are welcome. Please wear a mask & maintain social distancing. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-678-2222 / davetheman161@gmail.com Don’t Dress for Dinner — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 7:30pm. ALSO Sat., Feb. 5, 7:30pm • A farce by Marc Camoletti, adapted by Robin Hawdon, directed by Junie Hutchinson, with Ross Chapman, Linda Levy Fisk, Mike Butler, Jane Kerr, Tracy Churchill, and Allan Tupper. TIX: $15 adults, $12 seniors (65 plus), at the door. Call to reserve your seat. INFO: 902-678-8040 / ccentrestage@centrestagetheatre.ca
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5
Breakfast — Lions Club, Kentville 8–10am • Treat your favourite valentine to a hearty Kentville Lions breakfast. TIX: Adults $8 Children $4 INFO: 902-680-2740 / vintagemusic1@hotmail.com Farmers Market — Farmers Market, Wolfville 9am–1pm. WEEKLY! • Our socially distanced, Indoor Market features over 50 vendors. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-697-3344 / wfmassistant@wolfvillefarmersmarket.ca Queer/Trans Friendly Hikes — Willow Park, Wolfville 2–4pm. WEEKLY! • 8-week series. Flying Squirrel Adventures is excited to offer a weekly hiking program created to support queer/trans people and allies in building connections to nature, themselves and their community. These hikes will run every Saturday, starting and ending at Willow Park in Wolfville. All are welcome! Registration required. INFO/Reg: valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com/programs
FEBRUARY 3 – MARCH 3, 2021
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6
Community Meditation Group — Bishop Hall, Greenwich 10:30am. WEEKLY! • Beginners are welcome. Sitting and walking meditation followed by tea and discussion. TIX: donation INFO: Stephen.Brown@nscc.ca / Joan Norris, 902-542-7993 Red Rocket — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm & 7pm • Finding himself down & out in Los Angeles, ex porn star Mikey Saber decides to crawl back to his hometown in Texas, where his estranged wife & mother in law live. Limited seating due to covid restrictions. Proof of vaccination & masks required. TIX: $12 cash or debit/ credit at the door OR online @ eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7
GriefShare — New Hope Wesleyan Church, Kentville 7–9pm. WEEKLY! • GriefShare offers help and encouragement after the death of a loved one. It is a special weekly seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life. We know it hurts, and we want to help. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-670-9288 / gerrits.bernadine@gmail.com
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8
Community Luncheon — Lions Club, Kingston 12–1pm • Full Turkey Dinner. This Luncheon is by PRE-ORDER ONLY. No eat in option, only delivery or take-out. Preorders will be taken on the 2nd and 3rd of February between 8am–noon. TIX: Take-out: $12 / Delivery: $13 INFO: 902-765-2128 Celebrate Recovery — New Hope Wesleyan Church, Kentville 7–9:30pm. WEEKLY! • A faith based 12-Step program for all who need help with hurts, habits & hangups. Are you struggling with broken relationships, stress, anger, fears, addictions? All are welcome. Please wear a mask. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-678-2222 / davetheman161@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9
Wolfville Legion Coffee/Tea Social — Community Hall, White Rock 9:30–11:30am • Drop in for a fresh baked treat and enjoy fellowship (masks and proof of vaccinations are mandatory). TIX: $2 INFO: 902-542-5869 / wolfvillelegion@gmail.com Network Knitting — Library, Kentville 1–3pm. WEEKLY! • Bring your projects (knitting or crochet) and come join the fun. For adults. Everyone is welcome! Registration is required. Masks and proof of full vaccination are required. TIX: no charge INFO: valleylibrary.ca Valley Women’s Business Network AGM — Zoom Platform, Annapolis Valley 6:30–8:30pm • Valley Women’s Business Network AGM and Introduction to Canva. TIX: no charge INFO: programs@vwbn.ca
A Matter of Equality: Hon. Don Oliver — AVRL Virtual Program Space, Berwick 7–8:15pm • An online presentation of the autobiography of the former Canadian Senator, The Hon. Don Oliver, CM. ONS. QC. A Matter of Equality: The Life’s Work of Senator Don Oliver examines the legacy of the first man, and the second Canadian, to bring the Black experience directly to the upper house. Lawyer, and outspoken spokesperson for diversity and minority advancement, A Matter of Equality details his life as a Black man working, within the system, to bring change to Nova Scotia and beyond. Growing up in the only Black family in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Donald Oliver felt duty-bound to honor his great-grandparents, who had fled slavery in the US. His family’s fundamental creed was; work hard, be humble, love the Lord, and do all you can to help other people. Donald Oliver would go on to embody those values in a big way. Now retired, he looks back at a life lived in service to others. In his own careful and thoughtful words, he examines his days as a lawyer, social activist, teacher, and his twenty-three years of service as a member of the Senate of Canada. TIX: No charge. Register to receive the zoom link. INFO: valleylibrary.ca
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Flee — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • The extraordinary true story of a man, Amin, on the verge of marriage which compels him to reveal his hidden past for the first time. Limited seating due to covid restrictions. Proof of vaccination & masks required. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR online @ eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Man In Plaid — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 8–10pm • Spend a winter night with The Man In Plaid as he plays some great classic rock and Maritime tunes. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-483-9261 / maninplaidmusic@gmail.com
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19
Virtual Paint Day — 7 Arts, Greenwood 3–5:15pm • Join Artist Jane Beals for a fun virtual paint day “Palm Tree on the Beach” from the comfort of your own home. Supply kit to be picked up from 7Arts building, Greenwood (open 2–6pm, Fri–Mon.) TIX: $40 per person, cash or via e-transfer to janebealsart@gmail.com 7arts Building Greenwood, Open 2 to 6 pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday or e-transfer janebealsart@gmail.com INFO: 902-825-6617 / janebealsart@gmail.com
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20
Parallel Mothers — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Pedro Almovodar’s latest film is the story of two mothers who give birth the same day. Limited seating due to covid restrictions. Proof of vaccination & masks required. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR online @ eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Nature for Newcomers Winter Series – Sledding & Snowshoeing — Kentville 6–7:30pm • Flying Squirrel Adventures is excited to facilitate monthly nature fun for Newcomers to our region. Transportation support available. INFO: valleyflyingsquirrels@gmail.com / valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26
Coldest Night Of the Year — Centre Square, Kentville 5–7pm • Coldest Night of the Year is a Canada-wide walk to raise money for local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. This is Open Arms’ 10th year hosting CNOY ‘Annapolis Valley’ alongside 168 cities and communities across Ca TIX: donation INFO: 902-599-4326 / coldestnight@openarms.ca Broken Leg Theatre – Eye of the Tiger — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7–9pm • Come enjoy amazing theatre, music, comedy, and dance! A fabulously fun family-friendly frolic! TIX: $10 at the door or by email. INFO: Donna, donnaholmes712@gmail.com
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27
Sunday Music in the Garden Room — K.C. Irving Environmental Sciences Centre, Acadia University, Wolfville 2 pm • Stéphane Tétreault, cello. The Bach Suites According to Stéphane Tétreault. COVID restrictions apply – proof of vaccination and masks. PLEASE NOTE: The concert will depend on Acadia campus being open to the public. TIX: no charge INFO: Arts Acadia website – artsacadia.acadiau.ca Drive My Car — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • After his wife’s unexpected death, Yusuke Kafuku, a renowned stage actor and director, receives an offer to direct a production of Uncle Vanya in Hiroshima. Limited seating due to covid restrictions. Proof of vaccination & masks required. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/ credit at the door OR online @ eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10
Always check this source for accurate tides: Canadian Fisheries & Oceans. www.waterlevels.gc.ca FEB 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 MAR 01 02 03
HIGH 2:15pm 3:02pm 3:48pm 4:34pm 5:22pm 6:12pm ••7:05pm 7:29am 8:23am 9:17am 10:07am 10:55am 11:39am 12:22pm 1:03pm 1:44pm 2:26pm 3:09pm 3:56pm 4:47pm 5:43pm 6:45pm 7:14am 8:23am 9:30am 10:32am
LOW 8:00am 8:47am 9:33am 10:19am 11:06am 11:56am 12:48pm 1:42pm 2:37pm 3:30pm 4:20pm 5:06pm 5:50pm 6:32pm 7:13pm 7:31am 8:13am 8:56am 9:42am 10:31am 11:26am 12:27pm 1:33pm 2:41pm 3:47pm 4:47pm
11:28am 12:20pm •1:09pm
5:42pm 6:33pm 7:19pm
THERE ARE NORMALLY TWO HIGH AND TWO LOW TIDES EACH DAY.
•Highest High: 45.8 feet ••Lowest High: 37.8 feet
Farmers Market — Recreation Centre, Kentville 10am–1pm. WEEKLY! • Vegetables and fruit, meat, eggs and baked goods are all presented by the farmers and makers who produced them. A selection of local artisans are ready to greet you. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-956-1822 / kentvillefarmersmarket1@gmail.com
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12
Vision Board Workshop — Rachel Reeve Art, Greenwich 1–3pm • Vision Board Workshop with Visual Artist Rachel Reeve. Map out your dreams and reach your goals! Email to register. TIX: $20 INFO: 902-698-3181 / aiaigasa30@hotmail.com
Love is in the air! Pre-order Valentines baked goods today Crystany’s Brasserie 9848 Main Street, Canning 902-582-3663 CrystanysBrasserie.com
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13
Nature for Newcomers Winter Series – X-Country Skiing — Kentville 1–3pm • Flying Squirrel Adventures is excited to facilitate monthly nature fun for Newcomers to our region. Transportation support available. INFO: valleyflyingsquirrels@gmail.com / valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15
Committee of the Whole — Municipality of the County of Kings, Coldbrook 9am • The meeting will be held in person unless COVID restrictions change. Any persons who wish to attend are required to PREREGISTER. Members of the public can also listen live at countyofkings.ca. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-690-6133 / municipalclerk@countyofkings.ca
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BOOKS BY LOCALS Wendy Elliott
This month we’re featuring three books from WindyWood Publishing of Hubbards. I met editor Patricia Thomas at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market at her booth full of books. She even has stickers denoting “Local Books,” so I had to stop and chat:
which proves the old adage about writing what you know. Her theme of finding family and happiness in life should resonate. As Thomas suggested this book could be a great beach read or perfect for a cozy fireside.
their family files. The final page, which was contributed by the Wild Blueberry Growers Association of Nova Scotia, provides background information on blueberry production and harvesting in this province.
MIKE UNCORKED: IT’S IN MY NATURE!
WindyWood only publishes Nova Scotia writers and illustrators. Thomas says these books are available at Coles in New Minas and McQueen’s can also be found at Rainbow’s End in Wolfville.
Mike Butler
Y
How the Blueberry Got Its Crown is a charming fairy tale written by Suzanne Sheehan from Centre Burlington, Hants County. It is her first book, but I’m told she’s collaborating on another. Sonya Beeler, the illustrator, hails from the Aspotogan Peninsula.
The cover of DIY Family by Lorraine McQueen caught my eye right away as it features a sparkly photo of the much-loved and vandalized Acadia Cinema marquee. McQueen’s novel is set in Wolfville and was launched last summer. Notable for its quirky characters, DIY Family is focused on a young librarian trying to forge a life of her own. Beth is unaware at the outset that she’s hobbled by her well-meaning but strict upbringing. The plot inscribes the arc of her growing self-awareness. McQueen, who lives in Hantsport, was head librarian at Acadia University in Wolfville,
Gathering In: Covid-19 Silver Linings is a collection that will offer something to every reader about enduring a pandemic. The twenty-six contributors from among this province’s writers, artists, and musicians include theatre artist Kathy France of Wolfville and Alnoor Rajan Talwar from Bridgetown. Thomas says Talwar is an “amazing person, and brilliant. Housebound but so content with life as he has it.” He offers several different poetic perspectives, including:
The picture book presents the sweet story of two children out picking blueberries for their mother. They encounter a sorrowful fairy princess who has lost something. Together they locate the prized possession and are rewarded by the little fairy’s mother, the fairy queen herself. The story is delightful. With the tinted illustrations taken from actual paintings, How the Blueberry Got Its Crown is a slice of life and imagination. Finding hummingbirds, dragonflies, and ladybugs in surprising places just adds to the charm. Toward the end, Sheehan and Beeler offer five traditional Nova Scotia recipes from
At the end of each day, I fall asleep…sinking into the ocean of dreams… With a tear and a smile …yearning and loving …for with Love, comes Hope… Contributions from Philip Moscovitch about practising Tai Chi with a friend on FaceTime, and well-known writer Dorothy Grant and Deborah Washington’s care of starving pigeons were a special pleasure for me as a reader.
❧ Images courtesy of Wendy Elliott.
Melanie Priesnitz
If you’re a regular walker of Acadia’s Woodland Trails, you may have noticed our newest installation. There are now two mailboxes containing logbooks mounted to the entrance signs at the Park Street and Westwood Avenue trail entrances. We hope hikers will feel inspired to leave notes about their experience and work together to create a living document of stories. Acadia student Sarah Lavallée (Bachelor of Community Development, 2022) developed the idea while she was working as the Woodland Trails Community Intern.
a shared love of nature, co-create knowledge, and encourage each other to take action to protect it.”
“During my time as a community development and environmental sustainability student,” Sarah says, “I have come to truly understand the importance of green space for
We look forward to reading the entries and hope this initiative will provide added value to trail users as a way to engage with the community. Remember, when in nature we are never alone. We share this amazing blue and green planet with a myriad of other beings. We hope you will walk the Woodland Trails this winter to get some fresh air and see what friends you can find out there. If you haven’t yet visited Acadia’s Trails you can download a map from the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens website: botanicalgardens.acadiau.ca.
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the Wolfville community. Installing logbook boxes on the Woodland Trails was an idea that I came up with while researching the effects of green space attachment on community resilience for my honours thesis. During my focus groups, I heard from residents of all ages how important the Woodland Trails were to their well-being and sense of connection with other community members. I hope the logbooks will provide an opportunity for community members and students alike to take collective responsibility for the Woodland Trails by noting any areas that require attention or simply sharing a beautiful wildlife sighting during their walk. I hope the logbooks offer a way for the community to come together over
Random Acts of Kindness It is lovely to live in a neighbourhood that cares about its residents. The first snow storm of the season, someone shovelled a path to my door. The second storm, my across-thestreet neighbour saw me shovelling and started from the street to meet me. He is much stronger and faster, so that made very light work for me. When the front-end loader came around to move the snow banks back, my little path got filled in with very heavy ice chunks. Again someone removed them for me. I am on heart medicine, and live alone, so these acts of kindness are very thoughtful. I do so appreciate my considerate neighbours and wonderful neighbourhood! (Submitted by Margot Bishop)
10 | February 2022
Let’s start with some silly questions. Who doesn’t like nature? Who doesn’t enjoy walking, hiking, getting outside, and absorbing the goodness around us? Who wouldn’t love a nature walk with an incredible community of friends, chosen family, and support? Exactly! Wolfville, in many minds, has always been a very welcoming town with many diverse groups and activities, and the town is gearing up for a weekly Queer/Trans Nature Walk. I am so excited to share some of the details with you. I spoke with coordinator Jaya Papaya (cute name eh?) of Flying Squirrel Adventures, and besides being very thankful for their efforts to create this event, I wanted to pass along that in this world we live in, social media is a King and Queen of communication: that’s how I first heard of the walk and reached out, so kudos on the marketing. Jaya explains: “These hikes seem to be from a mish mash of a bunch of things. I got to know the Flying Squirrel Adventures’ creator, Judy Lipp, when I lived just down the road from her a couple summers ago. She’s been super encouraging and has supported me to get this project going. I was inspired by some queer/trans-friendly programming Music In Communities was putting on last summer. My hope is that these hikes will bring people and allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community together to connect with nature and each other.” Did you get that everyone? Yes, I said people AND ALLIES of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community! So, bring yourself, your friends, your parents, your supporters, all types and bodies: this walk is for everyone!
NEW LOGBOOK ON ACADIA’S WOODLAND TRAILS We are living in a time where the majority of us feel more disconnected from each other than ever before. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of staying home alone during these trying pandemic times. Getting outside and walking in nature is a great way to feel connected with other beings. Some of the friends you may meet on a hike this time of the year include woodpeckers, crows, cardinals, squirrels, and coniferous and deciduous trees and shrubs just to name a few. On Acadia’s Woodland Trails there’s a good chance you’ll also meet human neighbours and their four-legged canine friends. The Trails have become a wellloved part of the Acadia campus for students and community members.
Wolfville hosts weekly Queer/Trans Nature Walk
Open for Lunch!
Check out our insta: @artcan.canada
Jaya commented, “I myself am a member of the Queer/Trans community. The way I feel about my own flavour of gender has been in flow throughout my life. Within this practice of self-discovery, I want to stay in touch with my needs for authenticity, self-respect, self-compassion and joy! I’ve been exploring queering my relationships throughout my time in Wolfville and that’s been incredibly fulfilling. Who knows who I’ll be in 20 years!?” I’ve been a member of the Queer community for 43 years on February 12 (IE: BIRTH) and I’ve always found Wolfville to be engaging with its Queer community and its relationship to the university and our surroundings. This walk is going to be a wonderful way to come together while enjoying the beauty we have around us. The Queer/Trans-Friendly Walks will happen every Saturday from 2pm-4pm starting January 29, 2022 and finishing up on March 26! Bring all the outdoor gear you need for the weather. It’s also recommended that you bring a $10.00 donation to the Flying Squirrel Organizers as some things will be provided for you. Visit the Website for more details! Let’s go have a Gay Old Time Everyone!
Live Music!
Adam Baldwin March 11 & 12
Villages April 8 & 9
Open daily for dine-in or take-out! 183 Commercial St., Berwick • (902)538-7787
www.theUnionStreet.com
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AL WHITTLE THEATRE PRESENTS: DAWN, HER DAD AND THE TRACTOR
DINNER OUT
DICKIE BAXTER TAPROOM & BISTRO Scott Campbell
Directed by Wolfville filmmaker Shelley Thompson and starring Robb Wells and Maya V. Henry
I love going out to dinner. That’s probably why I do it so much. I really enjoy an inventive menu with well-executed dishes, all featured in a fantastic space with hospitable people welcoming you. The one thing I enjoy more than all of this—is all of this in a brand new restaurant. There is an excitement that comes with dining out at a restaurant for the very first time. So, when I heard about the Dickie Baxter Taproom and Bistro—now open in nearby Canning—I was thrilled when we were able to get a reservation.
When a young woman with a startling resemblance to John Andrew’s wife Miranda appears days before her funeral, John Andrew MacGinnis begins an odyssey towards understanding. His son Donald is now Dawn, home to mourn her mother and repair the estrangement with her Dad.
The restored circa 1852 house is the home for this amazing new venue. At first we were struck by the exterior of this fine restoration but once inside it was very apparent that we’d left the 19th century well behind us. Bright white walls, clean crisp lines, and a fresh décor with engaging artwork brought us into a modern, stylish, 21st century restaurant. I had visited their website before arriving so I had an idea of what I was going to try on their menu, but then we were seated and met Clare—our server. Clare shared with us the specials for the evening and suddenly our decision-making took on a much higher degree of difficulty. I literally wanted to try everything. Clare was exactly the kind of server you’d expect in a restaurant like Dickie Baxter Taproom and Bistro—knowledgeable, attentive, charming, and respectful of our dining experience and conversation, yet always there when you need something. This level of professionalism is a rare commodity and I’m always happy when I find it where I’m dining. I know I’ve chatted about the space and service and you’re likely wondering if I’m going to talk about the food. Chef Wayne is at the helm at Dickie Baxter Bistro and Taproom and he is steering it in a most delicious direction. His cooking experience at dining establishments in the Caribbean and all over the Maritimes is initially seen in the wonderfully eclectic menu, but when you actually get to try the food—that’s when it becomes apparent that you’re in the company of a world-class chef. I tried the beef tenderloin with charcoal spice, sauteed portobello mushrooms and Worcestershire gastrique. The mushrooms were a punch of flavour smothered in the gastrique but the tenderloin was definitely the star of the show. It quite literally melted in your mouth. I know people say that a lot but this actually did. Another guest at our table also
Beef tenderloin with charcoal spice, sauteed portobello and Worcestershire gastrique (photo courtesy of Scott Campbell)
had the tenderloin and mentioned that he’d recently had a steak dinner at a very wellknown Halifax fine-dining destination and the one prepared by Chef Wayne was better. Other diners at our table enjoyed the maple glazed salmon and the BBQ chicken. They each raved about the deep rich flavours of both of these dishes and the gorgeous presentation. And no discussion of a meal is complete without at least a mention of the dessert offerings. I had to try the spiced apple cake with spiced rum butterscotch drizzle. Every word in that name was mouth watering and the dessert itself did not disappoint. I will admit my eye wandered over the table at the Tammy’s chocolate torte—rich dark chocolate with raspberry coulis—but I was very happy with my ultimate selection. I finished off the evening with a glass of port from their great selection of drinks and cocktails. So if you are, like I was, suffering from dining withdrawal then you only need two things to have a spectacular evening (or lunch or brunch?—which I’ll be back for soon) at Dickie Baxter Bistro and Taproom—a good appetite and a reservation. Maybe I’ll see you there. Cheers.
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Dickie Baxter Taproom & Bistro 9809 Main Street, Canning, NS B0P1H0 dickiebaxter.com Follow Scott on Instagram@ ScottsGrapevine
NS CELEBRATES AFRICAN HERITAGE MONTH Submitted
Virtual celebrations for African Heritage Month began January 26 with a provincial proclamation and poster unveiling ceremony. “I am delighted and honoured to participate in the launch of African Heritage Month 2022,” said Lt.-Gov Arthur J. LeBlanc. “This year’s theme is particularly significant because it honours African Nova Scotians who have worked tirelessly for change and played a key role in the development of Nova Scotia and Canada as a whole.” The provincial theme, Through Our Eyes: The Voices of African Nova Scotians, recognizes the legacies of people of African descent through first voice, lived realities, and experiences.
“Learning from the past and acknowledging the present will help ensure a positive journey forward,” said Premier Tim Houston. “African Heritage Month is a time for all Nova Scotians to learn and grow as we commit to creating a more inclusive province where everyone can thrive.”
Until further notice and due to COVID restrictions, social distancing will be required in the theatre for this screening. Seating will be limited and seats assigned at the door, first come, first served. If you are able to “bubble” with another group or family, please let us know at the door so we can maximize the seating to allow as many guests as possible. Proof of vaccination required to enter the theatre (for 12 and older). Masks are required indoors.
❧ Fri. March, 4 at 7:00pm; Sat. March 5 at 2:00pm $13.05 + hst = $15; Cash or debit/credit at the door eventbrite.ca/e/dawn-her-dad-and-the-tractor-gala-night-wolfville-premieretickets-229940898417
ACADIA PERFORMING ARTS SERIES RESCHEDULES TWO CONCERTS François Côté
Due to the rise of the Omicron variant in Nova Scotia, and the resulting restrictions, the Acadia Performing Arts Series has rescheduled its next two concerts. The TOM REGAN MEMORIAL CONCERT, originally scheduled on January 29, will now be presented on Friday, April 8, 2022, at Acadia’s Festival Theatre. This yearly concert presents the best performances by the Acadia School of Music students, faculty, alumni and friends. We are grateful for the ASOM’s collaboration and flexibility, making the rescheduling of this concert possible. Original tickets will be honored on April 8. The LAILA BIALI concert, originally scheduled on February 13, will now be presented on Saturday, May 21, 2022. Please note that this concert, which was to take place at Acadia’s Convocation Hall, will be presented at Festival Theatre. Ticket holders will be issued new tickets with their reserved Festival Theatre seats. We are very pleased that we were able to reschedule these two performances rather than having to cancel them. We are hopeful that, come March, the Covid situation will have improved sufficiently to allow the safe presentation of our 2021-22 Series’ remaining four concerts:
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January 31
9049 Commercial St. #411, New Minas (902) 681-1355・www.headshoppe.ca
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902-542-4010 kody.blois@parl.gc.ca 101-24 Harbourside Drive, NS B4P 2C1
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February 26
For more information about African Heritage Month or to order a poster, visit: ahm.bccnsweb.com/wp/home.
Proudly serving as your Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants
Tickets are available at the Acadia Box Office, on line (acadiau.universitytickets.com) or by phone (902-542-5500). For more info, visit pas.acadiau.ca.
to
The African Heritage Month Information Network is responsible for selecting the theme, producing educational posters, and supporting the various virtual and in-person events across the province. All events will adhere to COVID-19 public health protocols.
KODY BLOIS
• March 19, 2022, TARIQ HARB • March 27, 2022, SYMPHONY NOVA SCOTIA, conducted by Holly Mathieson • April 8, 2022, TOM REGAN MEMORIAL CONCERT • May 21, 2022, LAILA BIALI
T E K C TI AY W A E GIV No ticket giveaways at this time. To see what’s happening around the Valley, check out ValleyEvents.ca.
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Winter Clothing for GUYS and GALS! 2 Central Ave., Wolfville www.retrorunway.com 692-9271 February 2022 | 11
12 | February 2022
