The Buzz - February 2021

February 2021

WE BUY: RINGS, NECKLACES

BRACELETS, BROKEN GOLD

SELL US YOUR OLD ITEMS FOR CASH TODAY

Mimi Wakelin

Peace, power, play

service. They currently contribute as a board member of both Pride PEI and Music PEI.

“It is a deeply personal journey.”

But Joce wasn’t always vocal in the ways that they are now. “I’m finding ways to speak up that feel good for me and fit my values.

“Speaking up doesn’t mean tearing others down.”

Joce has quiet wisdom for us: “Black Lives Matter doesn’t infringe on your rights; all we’re asking for are the same rights.

“If you were feeling bad, and people wanted you hurt or worse, would you not stand up? Would you not try to protect people you love and care for?

“Walking in someone else shoes is a lot, try doing it for a full march.”

As Joce continues to connect to their voice and share those gifts with the world, they remember the path they’ve taken to this point. While a student at Holland College, Joce “picked up the bass to see what would happen.” They saw a niche gap that they could fill and with a childhood dream of being a bassist along with their playful spirit, Joce took that bass and ran with it.

In 2019, they toured with Russell Louder. They have also collaborated with other Island artists such as Dylan Menzie and KINLEY. Poised to set the world on fire with their soulful voice and the power of story, a global pandemic forced a shift in 2020.

As we drank hot beverages at a café on a cool (not quite wintery) Sunday afternoon in January, Joce’s playful and passionate nature shined through. We immediately connected over our dislike of hot weather and commiserated that there simply hasn’t been enough snow or cold weather yet this winter.

Many Islanders are familiar with Joce’s work as a musician; however, they reiterated that their artistic pursuits actually take on many forms—visual art, painting, drawing, music and theatre. Through them all, Joce reminds us of the power of story and that all things are relational.

“I don’t take life or myself too seriously,” they say.

When asked about what inspires their art, Joce spiritedly said, “for the fun of it.” They went on to talk about their growth in personal and political aspects with their music, but they say they are most inspired by, and drawn to, art that allows them to create without borders. Art that allows them to explore and to just be.

“When I start a project, I don’t really have a plan or outcome in mind. I think, ‘what life will this take on?’ and ‘what will this turn into?’”

As a fellow integrator and interdisciplinary artist, I admire Joce for their authenticity. I saw them perform (theatre and music) in the 2020 Island Fringe Festival’s Pounding the Pavement: Celebrating and amplifying artists from the fringe in a play called Blackberries. The play explored realities that Black folx endure from well-intentioned white people. Joce walked on stage with their bass guitar wearing a shirt that said, “I can’t breathe.” This is a phrase associated with the Black Lives Matter movement, originating from the last words of Eric Garner, an unarmed Black man killed in 2014 after being put in a chokehold by New York City Police.

“We are living through the greatest civil rights movement of all time.”

As a person of colour and a member of the queer community, Joce expressed their desire and dedication to being of

“We had so many gigs and events planned, and everything just came to a halt.”

Joce radiates agility and adaptability so I was not surprised to hear how they took 2020 in stride and were able to acknowledge many COVID silver-linings.

“Islanders really stepped up last spring and summer by providing opportunities for artists like me to perform.”

They treated fans with livestream events and participated in Music PEI’s Tiny Island Concert Series and Golden Ticket Program, to name a few. They also had a song, “Unknown,” commissioned by the CBC.

Joce continues to work on various projects and has many exciting plans for 2021. Their first single, “Cross my Heart” will be released on February 19 and they anticipate their first album to drop by the end of the year.

The Buzz welcomes Julie Bull aboard as our new profile columnist.

JULIE BULL

Pro le: Joce Reyome by Julie Bull

Soprano Tracy Cantin

PEISO presents chamber music at Confed Centre—Feb 28

UPEI Faculty Gala Recital

At UPEI’s Dr. Steel Recital Hall—Feb 6

The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) has been presenting some of PEI’s top chamber ensembles and soloists at the Confederation Centre in Charlottetown since their 2020-21 season began in October. The third concert of the season, These Are a Few of My Favourite Things, featuring soprano Tracy Cantin, will be held February 28.

Originally from Summerside, Cantin has performed on some of the greatest stages of North America, including the Metropolitan Opera, Santa Fe Opera and the Canadian Opera Company. She is quickly establishing herself as an accomplished interpreter of some of the most difficult repertoire in the operatic canon, most notably as Donizetti’s tour-de-force Anna Bolena, a role for which she is highly sought.

An avid concert performer, Cantin has appeared as a featured soloist around

the globe with world-class ensembles including the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and she has shared the stage with some of today’s most celebrated artists including René Fleming and Sir Bryn Terfel.

On February 28 at Homburg Theatre, Cantin will take the audience on a journey through some of her most cherished repertoire, including works by Strauss, Debussy, Weill, Britten, and Rogers and Hammerstein.

The concert will begin at 2:30 pm. Masks must be worn during the entire performance and there will be no intermission. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the Confederation Centre Box Office.

Info: peisymphony.com, admin@ peisymphony.com

The UPEI Department of Music’s Faculty Gala Recital will be held February 6 at 7:30 pm in the Dr. Steel Recital Hall in Charlottetown.

The evening will feature most of UPEI’s performance faculty, including: Magdalena von Eccher, piano; Dale Sorensen, trombone; Sung-Ha ShinBouey, soprano; Morgan Saulnier, flute; Nicole Strum, saxophone; Jim Dickson, guitar; and Karem Simon, clarinet.

Dr. von Eccher is performing Schubert’s Impromptu in G-flat Major, Op. 90, No. 3 as piano soloist and collaborating as a chamber musician with

many of the other faculty members. Dale Sorensen’s lyrical qualities will be on display during Messiaen’s Vocalise-Etude, and he will perform a work with loop station.

Sung-Ha Shin-Bouey returns to the stage performing songs by Xavier Montsalvatge, Enrique Granados, and Fernando Obradors.

The evening will also feature works by J.S. Bach, Lowel Liebermann, Paul Hindemith, and Gregory Wannamaker.

Audience capacity in the Dr. Steel Recital Hall is limited. Tickets available at music@upei.ca.

(l–r): Sung-Ha Shin-Bouey, Dale Sorensen and Magdalena von Eccher

Flute repertoire

Morgan Saulnier with Frances McBurnie in Montague—Feb 5

The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) presents flutist Morgan Saulnier along with pianist Frances McBurnie for an evening of rich and evocative flute repertoire on February 5 at Hillcrest United Church in Montague.

Morgan Saulnier and Frances McBurnie have been making music together for nearly two decades. This programme will feature works by Griffes, Dutilleux, Handel, Srul Irving Glick and others.

Showtime is 7:30 pm. Doors open at 7 pm. Advance tickets are available at morgansaulnierflute.eventbrite.ca.

Night Music

Sarah Hagen piano recital at St. Paul’s—Feb 12 & 13

Night Music returns to St. Paul’s Church in February with a programme celebrating love, hope and the return of the light.Pianist Sarah Hagen invites people yearning for an evening of repose through music to join her for this experience inspired by Natkirke, a contemplative initiative in Denmark. The carefully curated hourlong programme will include works by Rachmaninoff, Bach, Satie and others. In the spirit of shared reflection, the audience is encouraged to enter quietly and pieces will flow from one to the next without pause or applause.

Due to popular demand, this edition of Night Music will be on two nights, February 12 and 13 at 8 pm.

Seating will be limited. Please reserve in advance by emailinginfo@ sarahhagen.com or by filling out the reservation form at sarahhagen.com. Please note that the last edition of Night Music sold out well in advance

Lovers’ Lament

Cast performs Anti-Valentine’s Day cabaret—Feb 10–14

Facemasks must be worn during the entire one-hour performance.

Info: admin@peisymphony.com

so it is recommended to reserve early. Admission for the show is PayWhat-You-Will at the door. St. Paul’s is located atthe corner of Prince and Grafton Streetsin Charlottetown. sarahhagen.com

It’s been over a year since live theatre was presented on the Mainstage at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. Adam Brazier and cast are ready to raise the curtain in February with a hilarious show just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Lovers’ Lament: A Vaccine for Relationships is an 80-minute cabaret performance that promises a side-splitting, delightful and original take on the Valentine’s tradition.

Presenting songs from musical theatre and beyond, this look at relationships is the perfect Valentine’s event for anyone who’s ever fallen in—or out— of love. Directed by Brazier, Lovers’ Lament features some of the stars of recent Charlottetown Festival musicals including Aaron Hastelow, Emma Rudy, Michelle Bouey, Josée Boudreau

and Cam MacDuffee. Musical direction and live accompaniment is from Bob Foster.

Featuring selections from such musicals as: I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; Guys & Dolls; works by Stephen Sondheim; and even a cheery number from Weird Al Yankovic, Lovers’ Lament plays the Mainstage Theatre February 10–14 at 8 pm.

“Lover’s Lament pokes fun at love and the absurd things we are willing to do to have it in our lives. We cannot wait to welcome Islanders back to the Centre for a thrilling and hilarious night on the town,” says Brazier, artistic director of the performing arts.

Tickets can be purchased online at confederationcentre.com, in person at the box office, or via phone, at 566-1267.

(clockwise from top-left): Josée, Aaron, Michelle, Cam. (centre): Emma

architecture of Summerside. Admission is by donation. Eptek is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation. Open Tue–Fri 10 am–4 pm and most Sun 12–4 pm. Admission by donation. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.com

EXHIBITS The Drive

Confed Centre Art Gallery

On view: Give me Shelter to Apr 6; a new touring exhibition, The Drive, from the Art Gallery of Guelph until May 2; Gerard Clarkes: A Haunted Land to May 9. Open Tue–Sun 10 am–5 pm. 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre.com

Cornwall Library Art Gallery

On view: Barry Bain’s From Palette to Canvas: a mix of subjects that catch my eye to Feb 26. The Spring Group Art Show opens Mar 2. Contact for info on displaying in the gallery. Open Tue–Wed 1–8:30 pm, Thu–Sat 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 1–5:30 pm. 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall. 629-8415

Eptek Art & Culture Centre

On view through Feb: Mi’kmaq fine craft exhibit, Quills, Ash, and Bone: Current perspectives on traditional Mi’kmaq art, featuring a variety of work by several Mi’kmaq artists using the traditional practices of quill art, basketry, beading and drum-making. Artists are: Noella Moore, Annie Gallant, Nora Richard, Kayla Sark, Melissa Peter-Paul, Cheryl Simon, Gilbert Sark and Mary Catherine Sark. Keep an eye out for artist demonstrations and other events. Visit the permanent exhibition on the history and

Thomas H.B. Symons

Confed Centre sta and board fondly remember

Confederation Centre of the Arts (CCOA) is mourning the passing of Professor Thomas H.B. Symons, CC, O.Ont, FRSC, LLD, DU, DLitt, DCnL, FRGS, KSS, who passed away January 1 at the age of 91.

Professor Symons was a long-time colleague of CCOA, serving as both board director and governor and was the founding force behind the now annual Symons Medal Lecture. He is widely recognized for his contributions in the areas of public policy, heritage, and education, dedicating his life to community and nation building.

“It is with deep sadness that we reflect on the passing of Tom Symons,“ states Robert Sear, chair of board of the Fathers of Confederation Buildings Trust. “Tom was one of the Centre’s most passionate and committed members. He carried a great love for the Island and we are forever thankful for his many contributions and generous guidance over the past 35 years as board member, governor, and friend.”

Says Steve Bellamy, CEO, “Tom

Gallery @ The Guild

On view to Feb 7: The Young Masters, a group exhibition displaying the final independent artwork of the 2021 Charlottetown Rural and Colonel Gray grade 12 art classes. Students have been working to develop their artwork throughout their high school careers and in the last few weeks of their final semester have sought to create their own young masterpieces. On view Feb 12–28: Canadian Cities, 10 acrylic paintings by Andrew Melzer. One city from each province, reimagined in the oppositional geometric style by the artist. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. theguildpei.com

Kings Playhouse Gallery

On view through Feb: art exhibit featuring works by Carolyn Hessinger, Connie O’Brien and Kathy Stuart. 65 Grafton St, Georgetown. kingsplayhouse.com

Receiver Co ee Co.

On view to Feb 15: @billspotting—A

Retrospective, curated by Max Knechtel, featuring collected and shared digital images of local public figure Bill McFadden throughout 2019 until his passing in 2020. 128 Richmond St, Charlottetown. 367-3436

A new touring exhibition, The Drive, from the Art Gallery of Guelph, is on view at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown until May 2.

has left a profound impact on Confederation Centre of the Arts through his efforts to promote the Centre nationally, particularly through the establishment of the Symons Medal Lecture. We are proud to have received decades of support and attention from Tom, and are equally proud to ensure that his legacy will on through the Symons Medal Lecture series.”

Says Island Historian Catherine Hennessey, OC, of her colleague, “Tom Symons has long connections with this place, having arrived here as a hitch hiker while he was a teenager. That trip took him to the gate of Shaw’s Hotel in Brackley. His loyalties run deep on this island, spending summers at Shaw’s; caring for us when he was chair of National Historic Sites and Monuments Board; and then later on the Centre’s board. He is a true Canadian icon and I will always be honoured to call him a friend.”

Anchored by the Art Gallery of Guelph’s major Tom Thomson canvas of the same title, The Drive situates the work of Thomson, the Group of Seven, and their peers in relation to contemporary Indigenous and Canadian artists in order to highlight the complexity of the representation of landscape—particularly as it relates to the history of resource development.

The Drive (1916-17) is considered to be among Thomson’s most significant paintings, featuring the logging industry in Algonquin Park, a common subject for the artist and one often overshadowed by his paintings of untouched landscapes such as The Jack Pine (1916) and The West Wind (1917).

Based on a sketch produced in the summer of 1916 when Thomson was employed as a fire ranger in the park, the canvas depicts a massive flow of timber emerging from a dam at Grand Lake near Achray in Canada’s oldest provincial park. The logs being guided through a narrow gap in the dam were headed towards the Ottawa River.

The Drive painting captures the intensity of logging in a park that

had already been widely clear-cut in Thomson’s day. The industry was the primary shaper of the landscape the artist painted and made famous, defining this landscape as post-industrial, not the untouched wilderness it is so often described as.

A.Y. Jackson’s depictions of mining settlements and J.E.H. MacDonald’s agricultural scenes and views made accessible by rail are contextualized within the exhibition.

Complemented by the work of Indigenous and Canadian artists including Sonny Assu, Christi Belcourt, Bob Boyer, Edward Burtynsky, Bonnie Devine, Robert Houle, Isuma, Sarah Anne Johnson, Daphne Odjig, Kelly Richardson, Don Russell, Frank Shebageget, Peter von Tiesenhausen, and Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun,the exhibition documents the effects of colonization and changing relationships to the land through creative interventions that advance ecological sustainability and environmental justice.

Curated by Shauna McCabe and Brian Meehan, this circulating exhibition is organized by the Art Gallery of Guelph with the support of the Department of Canadian Heritage, and in conjunction with Confederation Centre Art Gallery, Museum London, and Thunder Bay Art Gallery.

Touring exhibition pulls up in Charlottetown—until May 2

Tom Thomson, The Drive, 1916-1917, oil on canvas, 52 x 59 in.

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

LOUISE VESSEY

The Brew by Bryan Carver

Fill ‘er with unleaded

Exploring some great local, alcohol-free options

At the start of a fresh new year, many people take the pledge to adhere to a “Dry January,” spending the month without any beer, wine or spirits. This commitment to a month of sobriety, after typical holiday merriment and drink, allows for people to take a break from alcohol and evaluate the relationship they have with it.

These periods of abstinence have increasingly popped up throughout the calendar, “Sober October” and the growingly popular “Dry Feb” which is an initiative of the Canadian Cancer Society. There is certainly a long list of benefits from abstaining from alcohol. Better sleep, better immune system function, money in the bank, and improved moods, to name a few.

With each passing year, people choosing to take these periods off from drinking are finding more and more options to enjoy the flavour of their favourite drinks, but without the alcohol content.

In the beer space, non-alcoholic beers have made vast improvements in recent years. The typical large brewer non-alcoholic brands can be found at most grocery stores for people looking to enjoy lager style beers. Increasingly, craft brewers have been making tremendous headway in creating flavourful non-alcoholic beers. One such example is Upstreet Craft Brewing’s newest initiative, Libra. A non-alcoholic pale ale with tropical and citrus hop aromas, this beer bridges the gap between hop forward craft ales and non-alcoholic low calorie beer.

Other bars and restaurants have started to offer flavourful alcohol-free options as well. Slaymaker & Nichols in Charlottetown developed a Gin-less Fizz cocktail and has even made the recipe available to anyone wishing to create one at home. Follow along on their social media to get a copy of the recipe for yourself.

Village Green in Cornwall has made a Carbonated Lemon Water for guests to enjoy, allowing them to continue making a stop at their local pub to enjoy a

February at Kings Playhouse

The Kings Playhouse in Georgetown has planned a “Fascinating February,” featuring a series of family concerts, an uplifting art exhibit, cooking classes and more.

In partnership with Young at Heart Theatre, Kings Playhouse will host a Fascinating February Sunday afternoon concert series featuring Island artists Treble With Girls, Julie PellissierLush and Kelley Mooney. With support from the Community Foundations of Canada, New Horizons for Seniors and the Province of PEI, each concert will be filmed and the recordings will be sent to nursing homes, manors and community care facilities. This is a pay-what-you-can event and registration is required. There is a limit of 50 people in the theatre, so booking early is recommended.

Visit the fine art gallery throughout Fascinating February and view an uplifting art exhibit, featuring works by Carolyn Hessinger, Connie O’Brien and Kathy Stuart.

An art class with Ann Clow will take place February 6 at 3:30 pm. No experience is necessary and all materials will be provided. Bring a friend and learn a new skill.

Cooking Together, a series of cooking classes beginning February 6, will feature Island chefs Jen MacDonald, Terry Nabuurs, Amil Zavo and Robert Pendergast. Each chef will show attendees how to prepare delicious and affordable meals using locally sourced ingredients. Chef Jen MacDonald starts with a special class for kids on February 6 at 10:30 am. Class size is limited, but they will be filmed and sharing them online.

On Wednesday evenings enjoy a safely distanced Groove class offered through the Town of Three Rivers (threeriverspei.com).

Kings Playhouse is located at 65 Grafton Street, Georgetown. kingsplayhouse.com, 1-888-346-5666

beverage without the alcohol.

Taking the time to step away from consuming alcohol really provides individuals with an opportunity to examine their personal relationship with it. Many people have seen their own consumption go up over the last year, as more idle time at home often created more opportunities to drink. Spending time without consuming gives people a chance to explore other areas of interest they may have not searched out otherwise and enjoy the health benefits that come along.

(Female Version)

By Neil Simon

February 19, 20, 26, 27, March 5 and 6

“Set

Non-alcoholic beer Libra from Upstreet and Village Green’s Carbonated Lemon Water

BRYAN CARVER

Julie Pellissieer-Lush

PERFORMANCE

Jan 28, 8 pm

Kierrah Celeste

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Jan 29, 8 pm

James Mullinger

Harmony House Theatre, Hunter River

Jan 29, 8 pm

Cory Gallant and the Red Dirt Posse

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Jan 30, 8 pm

Nathan Wiley with full band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Jan 31, 8 pm

Sarah Segal-Lezar

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 4–6, 8 pm

Lovers’ Lament

Confederation Centre of the Arts, Charlottetown

Feb 5, 7:30 pm

Morgan Saulnier with Frances McBurnie

Hillcrest United Church, Montague

Feb 6, 7:30 pm

Liam Corcoran, Nick Done & Brielle Ansems

Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

Feb 6, 7:30 pm

UPEI Department of Music

Faculty Recital Gala

Dr. Steel Recital Hall, UPEI, Charlottetown

Feb 6, 8 pm

Popalopalots Improv

The Guild, Charlottetown

Feb 7, 8 pm

Craig Fair: Mix Tape Sundays

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 9, 8 pm

The Hounds of Winter Sean Kemp, Chris Corrigan & Adam Hill

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 11–12, 8 pm

Logan Richard Band

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 12, 7 pm

With Love From Disney

Performed by the Guild Advanced Music Theatre class, The Guild, Charlottetown

Feb 12–13, 8 pm

Sarah Hagen

St. Paul’s Church, Charlottetown

Feb 12–13, 8 pm,Feb 14, 2 pm

Signed, Sealed, Delivered:

Melissa MacKenzie and Mike Ross

Harmony House, Hunter River

Feb 13, 7:30 pm

Dennis Ellsworth

Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

Feb 13, 7:30 pm

The Serenades

Caron Prins and Lori Linkletter, The Guild, Charlottetown

Feb 13–14, 8 pm

Catherine MacLellan & Tanya

Davis present Smitten: A Winter Revue

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 15, 1 pm

Gordie MacKeeman Islander Day Matinee

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 16 & 17, 8 pm

The Remedy: Brielle Ansems, Melissa MacKenzie & Julain

Molnar

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 18, 8 pm

Mo Kenney, Lucy Farrell

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 19, 8 pm

Charlie A’Court

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 19

Side Hustle

The Guild, Charlottetown

Feb 19–20, 7:30 pm

The Odd Couple

Encore Theatre Company. Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Feb 20, 7:30 pm

Mo Kenney

Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague

Feb 20, 8 pm

Popalopalots Improv

The Guild, Charlottetown

Feb 20, 8 pm

Brandon Howard Roy Album

Release Party

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 21, 8 pm

Craig Fair Presents: Mix Tape

Sundays

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 22–23, 8 pm

Garrett Mason

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 24–26, 8 pm

Two Hours Tra c

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 25–27, 8 pm

I Know You

Desert Island Theatre Company. The Guild, Charlottetown

Feb 26–27, 7:30 pm

The Odd Couple

Encore Theatre Company. Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

Feb 27, 8 pm

John Connolly

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Feb 28, 8 pm

The Recital: The Show with Kimberly Mooney

Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown

Mar 5–6, 7:30 pm

The Odd Couple

Encore Theatre Company. Celtic Performing Arts Centre, Summerside

The East Pointers

Confed Centre—Mar 12 & 13

2021 Music PEI Week

Music PEI Award nominees and events announced

The 2021 Credit Union Music will take place from March 3–7, celebrating the nominees of the 2021 Music PEI Awards. 2020 was a tough year but music from these Island artists continued to ow, often through new or seldom used platforms online.

The awards will be handed out on Sunday afternoon, March 7 at the Awards Party, and the week will close off with the Festival Finale on the Confederation Centre Mainstage Sunday night featuring top nominees

Maritime Electric Lloyd Doyle New Artist OTY

Brandon Howard Roy—Little Reasons; Brielle Ansems—This New Hurricane; Logan Richard—Everyday; Sarah Hagen

Women of Note; Shane Pendergast—

Place to the Name

Cymba Music Publishing Producer

OTY

Adam Gallant; Colin Buchanan; Daniel Drouin; Jon Matthews

Recording Studio OTY

The Hill Sound Studio; The Sound Mill; Up West Production

Sobeys LIVE @ the Centre presents

JUNO Award-winning pop-folk trio

The East Pointers at the Confederation Centre in Charlottetown on March 12 and 13 at 8 pm.

Patrons holding tickets for the original December dates will be automatically rolled into the new dates or they can choose from other options with their previously booked tickets.

With Billboard-worthy pop hooks, deep acoustic grooves, trance-like breakdowns and three-part harmonies, Tim Chaisson, Koady Chaisson and Jake Charron capture the energy of their live shows and push the boundaries of East Coast folk.

Visit confederationcentre.com or contact the box office, either in person or by phone at 566-1267.

In addition to the awards for nominated categories, six additional Board Awards—as selected by the Music PEI Board of Directors—will be handed out. Those include Long & McQuade Educator of the Year (OTY), Industry Person OTY, Upstreet Lifetime Achievement, Deep Roots Distillery Rooted to the Island, Live Music Production Professional OTY, and ABCE Community Contributor OTY.

The nominees of this year’s awards will be celebrated during 2021 Credit Union Music PEI Week with four days of live performances and live streamed events at the Trailside Music Cafe and The Guild, including the SOCAN Songwriter of the Year Concert (hosted by Matt Rainnie), Diggin’ Deep Roots, Block Party, Sounds for the Soul, and Red Dirt Rock.

2021 GUILD PRESENTS

FEBRUARY

Popalopalots: Live Improv Comedy

February 6 & 20 With Love  From Disney

February 12

The Serenades

February 13

Side Hustle

February 19

I Know You

February 25-27

Gallery @ The Guild: The Young Masters

Artwork from the Graduation Class of Colonel Gray & Charlottetown Rural High Schools 2021 On display until Feb 7

Gallery @ The Guild: Canadian Cities

Artwork by Andrew Melzer

February 10 - 28

Guild Music Theatre School Winter Sessions • Register Today!

Artistic Director Of Children’s Programming, Lori Linkletter

Catherine MacLellan, Rachel Beck, Dylan Menzie, Brielle Ansems, and a classical music treat with pianist Sarah Hagen and vocal ensemble Sirens.

Tickets will be on sale starting February 1. All of the festival details will be available at musicpei.com.

Here are the nominees for the 2021 Music PEI Awards:

PEI Symphony Achievement in Classical/Jazz Music

Sarah Hagen; Sirens; Winterjazz Quartet

Credit Union Album OTY

Catherine MacLellan—Coyote; Dylan Menzie—Lost in Dreams; KINLEY— KINLEY; Rachel Beck—Stronger Than You Know; Sarah Hagen—Women of Note

The Buzz Album Art OTY

Brielle Ansems—This New Hurricane (Lead Artist/Graphic Designer (LA/ GD): Sarah Eddie and Brielle Ansems); Catherine MacLellan—Coyote (LA/ GD: Heather Millar and Jason Alward); Dylan Menzie—Lost in Dreams (LA/ GD: Ashley Anne Clark and Cohen McDonald); Lawrence Maxwell—Almost Natural (LA/GD: Aidan Searle); Sirens— Boundless (LA/GD: Alana Reddin)

Digital Achievement OTY

Brandon Howard Roy; Cory Gallant; Dylan Menzie; KINLEY; The East Pointers

Copper Bottom Event OTY

Feelin’ Mighty Proud—Confederation Centre of the Arts; Harvest Home Festival; Indian River Festival; The Island Drive-In Festival

Francophone Artist OTY

Adrienne Gallant; Sirène et Matelot; Vishtèn

City of Charlottetown Group

Recording OTY

Adjust the Facts—Go Play Outside; Amanda Jackson Band—Ocean; Graves of the Abyss—Burial; Little Cities— Little Cities EP; Sirens—Boundless; Sky

Family—Courageous

Instrumental Recording OTY

Inn Echo—Inn Echo; Luka Hall— Category 1; Sarah Hagen—Women of Note; Wrong Planet Band—Wrong Planet Band

Livestream OTY

Confederation Centre of the Arts— Kierrah Celeste; Rollo Bay Fiddle Festival; Royal North; Scott Parsons; Vishtèn

Holland College Musician OTY

Eric Broadbent; Mark Haines; Roland Beaulieu

SOCAN Songwriter OTY

Catherine MacLellan; Dylan Menzie; KINLEY; Logan Richard; Rachel Beck

Crabbe Road Productions Solo Recording OTY

Brielle Ansems—This New Hurricane; Catherine MacLellan—Coyote; KINLEY— KINLEY; Rachel Beck—Stronger Than You Know; Sarah Hagen—Women of Note Music Publishers Canada Song OTY

Brielle Ansems—”More Than My Heart”; Catherine MacLellan & Tara MacLean— ”This Storm”; Cory Gallant—”Easily Addicted”; Rachel Beck—”Warrior”; Nikkie Gallant—”Free (I Remember)”

Venue OTY

Celtic Performing Arts Centre; Copper Bottom Brewing; Mainstage Theatre— Confederation Centre of the Arts; Stompin’ Tom Centre

FilmPEI Video OTY

Adjust the Facts—”Human Virus” (Dir: Day1 Media); Catherine MacLellan & Tara MacLean—”This Storm” (Dir: Catherine MacLellan & Tara MacLean);

KINLEY—”Run With You” (Dir: Jenna MacMillan); Lennie Gallant—”Sequoia” (Dir: Lennie Gallant and Evan Christensen); Rachel Beck—”Dancin’” (Dir: Millefiore Clarkes); Sirens—”In Her Image” (Dir: Millefiore Clarkes)

Contemporary Roots/Country Recording OTY

Amanda Jackson Band—Ocean; Catherine MacLellan—Coyote; Dylan Menzie—Lost in Dreams; Lawrence Maxwell—Almost Natural; Shane Pendergast—Place to the Name

Electronic Recording OTY

Hailey MacIsaac—Down2U (feat. Mossboy); Lee Rosevere—Promise; Phyzxx—01.10 (feat. AKAninja)

Loud/Rock Recording OTY

Graves of the Abyss—Burial; Kari-Lyn Blacquiere—Hit The Ground; Little Cities—Little Cities EP; Wrong Planet Band—Wrong Planet Band

Downtown Charlottetown Inc. Pop Recording OTY

Brielle Ansems—This New Hurricane; KINLEY—KINLEY; Rachel Beck— Stronger Than You Know

Rap/HipHop Recording OTY

Adjust the Facts—Go Play Outside; Braeden Van Asperen—Voices; Eric Broadbent—Serendipitous Bastards; Slime da Garbage Mane—In da Crib Music; Spivey—Vibein; Vince the Messenger— Nowhere 2 Grow

FACTOR Entertainer OTY

Catherine MacLellan; Dylan Menzie; Rachel Beck; The East Pointers; Vishtèn

Smitten: A Winter Revue

Catherine MacLellan & Tanya Davis at Trailside—Feb 13 & 14

Long-time friends and artistic collaborators Catherine MacLellan and Tanya Davis are back for two shows over Valentine’s weekend, February 13 and 14, at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown. Smitten: A Winter Revue will see solo sets and collaboration, in celebration of love in all its forms.

In February 2020, the two artists teamed up to entertain Islanders on themes of love with songs and tales and various special guests. This year they will be joined by their partners Mark Westberg and Carlie Howell.

Mark Westberg, MacLellan’s partner, is a multi-instrumentalist and recording engineer. He tours frequently with—and produced two JUNO nominated albums for—David Francey. He also engineered and played on Catherine’s latest album, Coyote. Tanya was introduced to bassist and songwriter Carlie Howell through their mutual friend Jenn Grant, just before the pandemic. After navigating a long distance romance and a Confederation bridge closure, Howell traded her Toronto apartment for love in rural PEI.

Smitten is a celebration of love— romantic love, but also friendship and community care.

Tickets are on sale now at Back Alley Music in Charlottetown, trailside.ca, or by calling 367-3311. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show time is 8 pm.

Info: catherinemaclellan.com, tanyadavis.ca, trailside.ca

Catherine

Tanya

Learn to dance

Volunteer with DownStreet Dance Studio in Charlottetown and earn credits that can be used to learn West Coast Swing, Afro-Caribbean, Iranian folk, line dances, Jazz, Lindy Hop/ Charleston, Hustle and more.

Volunteers will be responsible for cleaning (no bathrooms involved) and sanitizing between classes, and minding the desk for two to four hour shifts. Volunteers will receive full training and the opportunity to take free classes.

Info: downstreetdance@gmail.com.

Improv at Haviland

HA Club improv classes by Laurie Murphy and guest instructors (Michael

will be offered on the first and second Wednesday of each month until June.

Classes run from 7–8:30 pm at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown. No prior improv experience is required. Each class will be different, designed so people can take one class and see what improv is about, or take all 12 and learn as much as they can. Students must be 16 years of age or older. Pre-registration is recommended. For information, visit marram.ca or email info@marram.ca.

The Guild

I Know You

Desert Island Theatre Company’s brand new play

Desert Island Theatre Company returns in February with the brand new play, I Know You, by local playwright and actor Benton Hartley. Presented by The Guild in Charlottetown, I Know You will be on stage February 25–27 at 8 pm.

The play stars Island actors Kassinda Bulger and Patrick Jeffrey as Tabitha and Paul, whose relationship is charted from first meeting to break up. Originally presented to audiences as a work in progress in August 2020, Hartley was struck by the way the story resonated with viewers.

“The play is telling a universal story of love and loss, and I think people really relate to stories like that,” explains Hartley. “Everyone’s been there, and hopefully, this helps them make sense of their own experiences.”

Hartley worked closely with The Guild Writer in Residence Rob MacDonald on developing the script and the two agree it’s ready for an audience.

By teasing out the cyclical nature of relationships, I Know You tries to make sense of the patterns many people fall into while dating and the barriers that prevent clear communication.

The Guild is located at 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown. Tickets: 620-3333

Popalopalots

Popalopalots Improv Comedy is at The Guild in Charlottetown February 6 and 20, and March 12 and 27.

In a world where our biggest desire is a return to “normal,” Popalopalots heads in the opposite direction with a night of the unknown and abnormal. Performing their make-it-up-onthe-spot sketch comedy, Popalopalots will have you laughing when they succeed, and even harder when they fail. Tickets are available at the door or in advance by calling 620-3333.

Kassinda Bulger

Patrick Je rey

Peters, Dylan Smith)

Way up West by Jan Cox

Living the dream

Something new, something di erent for Kensington foodies

The Odd Couple

The Celtic Performing Arts Centre at The College of Piping in Summerside welcome the newly formed Encore Theatre Company to the stage for it’s inaugural production. The Odd Couple (the female version) will be performed on February 19–20 and 26–27, and March 5–6.

This not so new troupe of players has deep roots in the East Prince area having honed their skills as members of the Kensington Theatre Company from 1990–2005. In 2005 the troupe was invited by the Harbourfront Theatre to become its resident theatre company, the Harbourfront Players, a successful partnership that continues today.

In 2021, original members of the Kensington Theatre Company and Harbourfront Players are taking to

Fringe Festival applications

Begin with a big bowl of passion and a sense of community spirit, add originality and warmth, sprinkle with creativity and pour in happiness until the bowl over ows—that’s the recipe for Kensington’s C+B Café.

Located at the corner of Commercial and Broadway Streets, (you can see the sign posts at the front door), what else would you name your brand new Café but C+B Corner Café?

It’s bright, it’s new, it’s different.

When former consultant Karen Spiteri teamed up with Chef Megan Beairsto, they heard from friends and locals that Kensington needed a breakfast café.

“I had a passion for hospitality. I thought I might like to take on a B&B or a café. My husband and I had bought the building several years ago. This spot became vacant. It was time to realize that dream,” said Spiteri. “Megan has amazing creative abilities. Our menu reflects that,” she adds. Taylor Ellis rounds out the talented kitchen staff.

Famous now for C+B housemade bagels, “Brekky” also offers such treats as C+B Buddha Bowl, French Toast made with fresh baked Japanese milk bread and Vegan Millennial Toast. Missed breakfast? No worries, the Café is open until 2 pm for lunch. How about the Edgy Veggie, the Havana Affair or Grilled (four) Cheeses with molasses butter?

“Why open in the middle of a pandemic?” I ask. Karen grins. “Well, the ball was already rolling. We had done renos in January and February, so why not? We took a risk thinking we could slowly ease into the summer season realizing it would be much slower than anticipated. Wrong. We were busy! We had no real expectations, but we were blown out of the water!”

Besides serving up quality breakfast, C+B has a liquor license. “It’s a nice option for our customers,” said Head Chef Megan Beairsto, who remembers sitting in the corner of the restaurant as a child with her Grandma (The corner ground floor space had been, among other businesses, a café in the day).

Both Spiteri and Beairsto are excited about their monthly Supper Club themed evenings. “We feature a five course meal influenced by the chosen theme,” Beairsto told me. Customers have been treated to an “Around the World” evening, (no one was travelling), a Halloween “Monster Movie Night” and most recently, “Heading to the Caribbean” (no one is going South either). So far, each month has been completely sold out.

C+B Corner Café is a cozy spot, with lovely tall live plants, various wooden tables and chairs, and an inviting fluffy stuffed couch with big arm chairs. Spiteri and the team plan to stay open all year. “We want to continue to do what we have begun, do it well, and make people happy.”

Island Fringe Festival (IFF2021) is slated to return July 28–August 1 with live performances in downtown Charlottetown.2021 marks their 10th anniversary and they will be celebrating this milestone all year long. The highlight, and to make it extra special, this year’s festival will showcase PEI talent. Yes, IFF2021 will have Islandonly performers at this year’s festival.

Fringe Festivals are dedicated to supporting independent entertainers and artists while creating opportunities for diverse communities to experience boundary-pushing theatre and live performance. Island Fringe welcomes all types of performances: musical theatre, stand-up comedy, magic shows, dance, theatre… if you can name it, you will likely see it at the Fringe.

the stage again as the newly formed Encore Theatre Company.

This timeless Neil Simon comedy puts the old adage “opposites attract” to a hilarious test when prim and proper Florence, recently separated, moves in with her disorganized and messy friend Olive. They are joined on their journey into chaos by their weekly Trivial Pursuit gang, Mickey, Sylvie, Vera and Renee, and charmed and challenged by their neighbours, the dashing Costazuela brothers. Leave the winter woes behind and join Florence and Olive as they experience love, loss, and splattered linguini. Show time is 7:30 pm.

The Celtic Performing Arts Centre at The College of Piping is located at 619 Water Street East, Summerside.

Artists and performers must apply to be in the Fringe. Applications from PEI artists and performers for IFF2021 will be accepted until February 14 at 6 pm AST.

Fringe Festivals are non-juried; entrance to the festival is through a lottery (names out of a basket).

Island Fringe Festival recognizes that many members of our community have been historically and persistently underrepresented, disadvantaged, and discriminated against in theatre and the greater community. Island Fringe is an advocate for equity and is committed to ensuring representation in the Festival.They welcome applications from equity seeking groups such as racialized/visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, persons with a disability, persons who identify in the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and any other person who reflect the diversity of Canadian society.

Info: islandfringe.com or email islandfringe@gmail.com.

C+B Café owner Karen Spiteri, realizing a life long passion.

Encore Theatre Company production at College of Piping

news ART

Art with Ann Clow

A special art class with Ann Clow will take place at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on Feb 6 at 3:30 pm. No experience is necessary and all materials will be provided. Bring a friend and learn a new skill. Info: 1-888-346-5666, kingsplayhouse.com

Eptek gallery games

Eptek Art & Culture Centre is offering exhibit related scavenger hunts for youth. Drop-ins are welcome but visitors are encouraged to call ahead. Eptek Art & Culture Centre is a site of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation. Admission is by donation. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. Info: 888-8373, peimuseum.com

Call for art submissions

this town is small’s Peake Street Collective is seeking artworks for a non-juried group exhibition that will bring together artworks that are informed by or created during the lockdown period that began in 2020. This exhibition will be mounted at the small town market gallery in late Mar. The

March

Friday,

works presented in this show may centre around, but are not limited to, themes of remoteness, isolation, sheltering in place, and connection/disconnection. Interested artists should indicate their intention to participate by emailing peakestreetstudios@gmail.com by Feb 28.

SSAC call for proposals

The South Shore Arts Council (SSAC) is accepting applications for funding of projects in the visual, performing and creative arts from individuals and groups in the South Shore region of PEI. Grants are for community based projects with emphasis on education and the development or preservation of the culture of this area. The max value of the grant is $750. Funding is provided by Innovation PEI. Applications must be received by Mar 26. Call Sylvia Ridgeway (sylviaridg@ pei.sympatico.ca, 658-2710) or Pat Smith (patstundensmith@gmail.com, 658-2670) for application forms.

SSNAP call to artists

The Salt Spring National Art Prize (SSNAP) recognizes, showcases and publicizes the accomplishments of Canadian visual artists and advances public appreciation of visual arts. Artists whose work demonstrates originality, quality, integrity and creativity are encouraged to submit pieces with real visual impact and depth of meaning. They are committed to mounting a live exhibition in Sep 2021 while respecting public health protocols in place at that time. SSNAP will showcase approximately 50 finalists chosen by

a national jury. The call to artists is open until May 31. The identity of artists in the selection process will be anonymous to the jury. saltspringartprize.ca

Fox Den donation for TOSH

The PEI Fox Den raised over $1200 for Three Oaks Senior High (TOSH) during it’s Island Makers—Date with The Den events held over six weekends in Nov and Dec. The one room schoolhouse in North Bedeque, now home to the PEI Fox Den, hosted Island artisans who showcased and sold their works at the events. With craft fairs cancelled, including the TOSH Craft Fair, the PEI Fox Den and its artisans partnered with Samuel’s Coffee House, Brothers2 Restaurant and ADL Foods who donated food and coffee to help raise money for TOSH. Students from TOSH helped to serve refreshments and each of the 11 days featured select Island artisans showcasing their products. All proceeds from the refreshments went to TOSH. peifoxden.ca

TTIS Crit Sessions for Artists

TTIS (this town is small) Crit Sessions for Artists provide an opportunity for practicing artists working in any medium to present and discuss their work. Crit Sessions occur once a month and each session will host two presenting artists. The next session will be held online via Zoom on Feb 23, from 7–9 pm. Each session is facilitated by a moderator and the audience, made up of fellow artists, provides constructive feedback and engages in critical dialogue. Presenting artists

receive an honorarium, a free membership and peer feedback. If interested in being one of the two presenting artists, email Lisa Theriault at thistownissmall@ gmail.com. If interested in attending as an audience member, the Zoom event link will be shared on their FB and IG pages @thistownissmallpei.

PEI Modern Quilt Guild

The PEI Modern Quilt Guild meets every fourth Thursday of the month from 7–9 pm. If interested in attending a meeting as a guest, email peimqg@gmail.com for details. The group follows public health guidance to determine whether each meeting will be held virtually or in-person. Follow @peimqg on Instagram. Info: peimqg@gmail.com

Family Sundays at Confederation Centre

This Family Sunday, Jan 31, make drawings move by creating a fun and simple flipbook. These books are created by a stacking drawings and flipping through them quickly, making it look like the drawings are moving. The inspiration for this activity comes from Sarah Anne Johnson’s artwork Into the Woods from the new exhibition The Drive on view at the Confederation Cente Art Gallery. Similar to flipbooks, the artist combined many different photographs together into one picture. She then turned them into a lenticular print, which creates the effect of a moving picture when walking in front of it. confederationcentre.com

New ED at this town is small

A Haunted Land

Enigmatic

Gerard Clarkes: A Haunted Land exhibit is on view at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery (CCAG) in Charlottetown. The new exhibition features a selection of landscapes that PEI-based artist Gerard Clarkes produced in Toronto in the 1960s and 70s, as well as more recent portraits and works from the past decade. Most of the selected works have not been previously exhibited in Atlantic Canada and present a retrospective look into a critical point in this artist’s career.

“The aim of this exhibition is to introduce the paintings of Gerard Clarkes to a new audience,” remarks Pan Wendt, CCAG curator. “Many of the works are quite magical and we are excited to show them to a public that hasn’t had a chance to see them until now.”

Born in 1934, Clarkes studied art in his native Winnipeg, as well as Montreal and Toronto. By the early 1960s, he was represented by major galleries in Toronto and Montreal and had solo exhibitions in Toronto and Vancouver. By the mid-60s he was appointed Director of Art at York University, and later Director of the Burnaby Art Gallery.

Gerard Clarkes: A Haunted Land features works that defy easy categorization. His paintings often depict enigmatic casts of characters positioned in allusive landscapes, like actors placed in a tableau.

When reviewing his formative

exhibition Gerard Clarkes: transcending, reviewers of the day spoke with uncertainty of his mystifying subject matter and unique style, which had clearly struck a chord with art lovers and collectors in the 1960s.

Today Clarkes’ work can be found in many public and private collections, including at Queen’s University, the Woodstock Art Gallery, and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Since 1985, the artist has composed music almost exclusively, until returning actively to painting in the past decade. He maintains a rural home and studio on PEI, where he settled in the 1990s.

Gerard Clarkes: A Haunted Land runs to May 9. An accompanying publication will be launched during the exhibition.

this town is small (TTIS) is pleased to welcome Lisa Theriault as its new Executive Director. Theriault began the position in early December and replaces outgoing Executive Director Monica Lacey.

Theriault comes to the organization with experience in arts administration, curation and as a practicing visual artist. She holds a BFA in Studio Arts from Mount Allison University and has worked at arts organizations in Atlantic Canada and Montreal, most notably at the Independent Media Arts Alliance, the Owens Art Gallery and the Confederation Centre Art Gallery. Theriault grew up in Charlottetown.

“this town is small has continued to provide necessary support to visual artists on PEI and I’m so excited to contribute to the great work that they do,” says Theriault.

Monica Lacey leaves the Executive Director position after three years to pursue new challenges and focus on her artistic practice. During her time at TTIS, she developed a range of community centred programming with partners located across the Island. Lacey established professional opportunities for Island artists to exhibit their work in partnership with Receiver Coffee and The Gallery @ The

Guild, as well as advance their artistic practices through group critiques, creative residencies (Parkman Ave Residency, Rock Barra Residency, Do Good Residency), and creative and professional workshops.

TTIS is PEI’s artist-run centre, established in 2010. TTIS fosters sustainability for contemporary arts practice on PEI through providing creation, presentation, and development opportunities, often with multiple community partners and while promoting a public understanding of contemporary art.

Info: thistownissmall@gmail.com

Lisa Thieriault is the new executive director for this town is small.

KATHLEEN FINLAY

landscapes from Gerard Clarkes

The Country Parson, 1968/1987, oil on canvas, 76 x 102 cm

Confederation Centre Art Gallery

CITY CINEMA FEB 2021

Preparations to Be Together for an Unknown Period of Time

Feb 4, 19–21 & 25

14A, nudity, sexual content, scenes of surgery. Dir: Lili Horvát, Hungary, 2020, 92 min. In Hungarian with English subtitles. Natasa Stork, Viktor Bodó, Benett Vilmányi.

2020 Oscar Selection for Hungary.

mutual devotion is quietly thrilling... The only glitch in their on-going idyll is that Mado has never gotten around to telling her grown son and daughter that she’s madly in love with a woman; an omission that’s putting the brakes on the couple’s dream of selling Mado’s apartment and moving to Rome together... So far as anybody knows, Nina is merely the nice foreign retired lady whose apartment is directly across the landing from respectable widow and doting grandma Mado... Who would suspect that they slide across that landing to snuggle...? Nina, of course has a key and starts playing with fire once a live-in carer is assigned to Mado. There’s plenty of suspense and chutzpah as Nina endeavors to be with her beloved. The result is an exquisite portrait of longing... They know how lucky they are to have found each other... A gut-wrenching love story with humorous touches, melded with an unlikely thriller. Beautifully crafted and perfectly cast... Nina and Mado’s loving intimacy is as exquisite as is the care with which the proceedings are lit..." - Lisa Nesselson, Screen Daily

Tusker is witty, sometimes quite naughty, but trying desperately to face his affliction head on... Firth's Sam is truly a man torn between the love for his partner and the fear of growing to resent him as time goes on, while desperately seeking 'the right thing' to do. Their performances are the anchor for the film, with the beautifully shot Lake District reminding us all how, when our stories seem small, they can be catastrophic and magnificent to us." -

Jenny Desborough, The Daily Express

Looking for Anne

Feb 26–28 & Mar 4

G. Dir: Takako Miyahira, Canada/ Japan, 2010, 105 min. Honoka, Daniel Pilon, Rosanna Zanbon, Marlane O'Brien. In Japanese and English, with English subtitles.

Winner, Best Film & Best Director, Asian First Film Festival. One of City Cinema's Top ten Canadian Films ever.

CITY CINEMA TIMETABLE

"What would you do if the love of your life disavowed any knowledge of you? That is the curious situation that Marta (Natasa Stork) finds herself in after returning to Budapest from decades abroad. She believes - she knows for a fact - that Janos (Viktor Bodó), whom she met while in New Jersey, knows her and loves her. Yet when she plans a rendezvous back in Hungary, Janos says he has no idea who she is or what she is talking about. This throws Marta, a neurosurgeon who is beginning to doubt her own work, into a state of existential crisis, one that director Lili Horvát teases with curiosity and ambiguity." - Barry Hertz, the Globe and Mail.

Two of Us

Feb 5–7 & 11

PG. Dir: Filippo Meneghetti, France, 2020, 95 min. Barbara Sukowa, Martine Chevallier, Léa Drucker

In French with English subtitles. Winner, Best Actress, Dublin International Film Festival, 2020 Oscar Selection for France.

Supernova

Feb 12–14, 18 & 20

PG, coarse language, mature themes. Dir: Harry Macqueen, Country, 2020, 93 min. Colin Firth, Stanley Tucci, Pippa Haywood.

an unforgettable couple whose sexual flame still burns brightly and whose

Advance Tickets

Our new website citycinema.ca is live. We now accept all major credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema. Seating is limited—advance tickets are strongly recommend.

Limited Seating

We’re selling a reduced amount of our 70 seats per show, with checkerboard seat arrangement for distancing.

One-way TrafficSystem

To help with social distancing we created a one-way traffic system, just follow the arrows!

"Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci star as Sam and Tusker... making their way cross-country in an RV for a concert, in which Sam is to return to the stage as a pianist... Sam is reluctant as he wishes to spend as much time as possible with Tusker, as Tusker is dealing with early on-set dementia, and is slowly becoming less able to remember and keep hold of his autonomy. Sam, the stoic, attempts to hold things together as well as possible... Tusker, meanwhile, is making his own decisions about what he wants his life to become... For Sam, he is willing to leave behind whatever career goals or aspirations he may have to support Tusker, while Tusker is utterly unwilling to become a burden to his beloved. It is a story, sadly, many are forced to confront in their own lives, and it is brought to the screen in a truly breathtaking way. The love they have for one another is the bedrock of the drama... For both Firth and Tucci, while their talent is well-known, they bring something fresh and new to the drama. Tucci's

Masks

Please wear a mask when not eating your delicious popcorn. We have paper masks available free.

Subject to change

Film availability and provincial COVID guidelines are subject to change. Check our website on the day of the show.

Rent City Cinema

City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have the the canteen and bar open for your group. Info/rates: chtownfilm@gmail.com.

“Looking for Anne is a sweet small movie about roses and boats, memories, miracles, and Anne of Green Gables. Yes, it’s set on Prince Edward Island. Young Takako Miyahira’s confident debut... follows three weeks in the life of a 17-year-old Japanese girl named Anri... Anri has travelled to P.E.I. as a tribute to her beloved grandmother, who died before she could make the pilgrimage herself. But Anri has little interest in the pull that the fictional Anne has had over generations of Japanese women.... She’s looking for an old Canadian Second World War veteran, who might live near a lighthouse on the island and whom she believes to have been her grandmother’s first love. Anri is not only shy; she’s romantic and secretive. Though her English is halting, and she has never travelled beyond the borders of her own country before, she’s determined to find her soldier herself, on a bike, with only the shakiest sense of direction. Luckily, she’s living under the broad wing of Mari, a longtime resident of Japan who has relocated to a cozy B&B she runs on the island as a safe haven for naive Japanese Green Gable watchers just like Anri. Mari’s a port in storm, but not without turbulent waters of her own... The movie is all about loves – last loves, lost loves, and first loves, too... Looking for Anne resists every temptation to fall into gooey romance and maudlin regret. A taut, unpredictable script, restrained performances, and clean direction in both Japanese and English, enjoined with the natural beauty of a wonderful place, help the film find its modest way to a neat and satisfying conclusion. And that is the viewer’s own reward.”

- John Griffin, The Montreal Gazette

Welcome to City Cinema from The Charlottetown Film Society

City Cinema is owned and operated by our non-profit Society. We will continue to present a diverse mix of films and welcome your suggestions and support. Become a member, bring friends, share feedback!

Admission Regular $11.00 Member $8.00 65 and over $8.00 14 and under $8.00

We now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema

Annual Memberships

Regular $25 Student $21

Box o ce opens 20 minutes before showtime

Book tickets in advance at citycinema.ca

citycinema.ca

"Young lovers move over - Nina and Mado bring to life

Film 4ward 2021projects

PRESENTS

FilmPEI recently selected four locally-produced film projects from a diverse slate of filmmakers for the 2021 Film 4Ward program.

Keara Higgins and Sarah SegalLazar—Elvira. A short comedy about a woman living in a small, rural community who becomes convinced that her chicken can solve crimes. The only problem is there aren’t any.

Jeana MacIsaac and Luc Trottier—In My Heart. Based on a true story, is short film is about the selflessness of a birth mother and how the adoption process can change a baby’s life.

Ronak Nanda and Jahan Bloch— Paradox of Life. A short drama about an immigrant healthcare worker, living through a pandemic, on a journey to figure out the new dynamics of life, relationships, duties and dreams.

Mark Sandiford and Millefiore Clarkes—Grandmothers. A lyrical,

art-based documentary that lends deep listening to, and seeks universal wisdom from, three formidable women elders from diverse communities.

The 2021 Film 4Ward applications were assessed by a jury of local and off-Island industry professionals. Leveraging industry expertise across PEI and Canada, participants will be trained by professionals through a series of workshops and job shadowing opportunities. The four film projects will receive production funding of up to $20,000 and in-kind facilities and services. Films are expected to be shot between February and April, with final delivery at the end of June.

An incubator for film production on PEI, Film 4Ward aims to support the Island’s film and television sector through training opportunities and production funding. filmpei.com

Cavan Campbell lm wins award

The new short film Receiver from director Cavan Campbell, originally from PEI, recently won the Air Canada Short Film Award at its world premiere in November at the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Isolated and overworked on the night shift, idealistic telephone counsellor Sriyani is confronted by an insidious caller with the power to control her thoughts. But is the real danger on the line, or in her own mind?

Campbell fostered his love of film on PEI before moving to Toronto to pursue his passion. He is best known for his work in lighting design on television productions including Star Trek: Discovery, and films like It and xXx: Return of Xander Cage. His previous

film Hangnail premiered at Slamdance and screened at festivals around the world.

Receiver was featured at the Chandler International Film Festival in January, and in March it will be screened at the Seattle International Film Festival. interlockpictures.com

Ronak Nanda

Jahan Bloch

READERS / WRITERS

Call for papers

The L.M. Montgomery Institute has issued a call for papers for its 15th biennial international conference, to be held at UPEI in June 2022. The conference theme is: L.M. Montgomery and Re-vision. Organizers invite proposals for research pertaining to L.M. Montgomery’s life, writings, and/or scholarship through the lens of “re-vision.” The theme plays off the “vision” theme of the 2020 L.M. Montgomery Institute conference that was cancelled due to the pandemic. Submit 250–300 word proposals and 100–150 word biographical statements by Aug 15, 2021. Individual paper and panel proposals are double-blind reviewed. Proposals for workshops, special exhibits, films, performances, or other visual displays are welcome. Proposals that view Montgomery’s life and art from different cultural and theoretical perspectives are also encouraged. Info: lmmontgomery.ca

Eptek Centre Book Club

The members of the Eptek Centre Book Club will meet Feb 4 at 7 pm to discuss the book Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson. Contact the Eptek Centre or the book club organizers to register in advance for this free event.

Eptek Art & Culture Centre is located at 130 Heather Moyse Dr in Summerside. 888-8373, peimuseum.com

Jay Ruzesky reading UPEI Writer-in-Residence

Jay Ruzesky will give a public FB Live reading Feb 9 at 7 pm. Ruzesky is a novelist, poet, travel and memoir writer, photographer and professor of creative writing, Canadian literature, and film studies at Vancouver Island University. Visit the Winter’s Tales FB page for more details. Info: Lee Ellen Pottie, lpottie@upei.ca.

BUZZ deadline

Friday, February 12

Writers’ Guild workshop A Shell of a Story

The PEI Writers’ Guild’s upcoming Comedic Storytelling workshop takes place online via Zoom, over the course of three consecutive Tuesdays in February. Facilitator Heather Jordan Ross will lead participants through joke structure, performance technique, and story-shaping. Participants will workshop their way from landing a joke to crafting a great story.

Jordan Ross is originally from Fortune, PE, and currently lives in Edinburgh, Scotland. Her personal, acerbic storytelling has been featured on OutTV, CBC’s the Doc Project, and BBC Radio 4.

Throughout the workshop, Jordan Ross will draw on her own experiences as a comedian and performer throughout Canada and the UK.

The PEIWG is offering two bursary spots for this workshop and encourage members from the BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ communities to apply, as well as anyone experiencing barriers that prevent them from taking writing workshops. To apply, email peiwritersguild@gmail.com explaining why you’d like to take Comedic Storytelling. Please include the word “bursary” in the subject line.

The workshop takes place February 2, 9 and 16, from 6:30–8:30 pm. Info/register: peiwritersguild.com

Debbie Brady, fine art photographer and Oyster Art Lady from Tyne Valley is hosting “A Shell of a Story,” a micro story competition designed to spark creative writing across Canada and around the world.

Brady defines oyster art as photographic fine art that reveals nature’s abstract creations in a tiny section of shell. A micro story is a subset of the flash fiction genre of fiction defined as a very short story, in this case, a maximum of 300 words.

The free competition is open to creative writers everywhere. Participants are asked to submit an original micro story of no more than 300 words (plus a one word title) by February 28 based on their interpretation of the new piece of oyster art that Brady will reveal on February 1 (As a Buzz reader, you get a sneak peek). The winner—chosen by Brady—will receive a print of the artwork and will be featured on her website at oysterart.ca.

“People are always pointing out different things they see in my artwork

and it’s fascinating,” says Brady. “I’m a curious person by nature and I like to say that oyster art will enrich your space with a story. So I want to see what kind of interesting stories people can come up with.”

A permanent caption and name for the oyster art will be created from the winning story and author credited.

Brady also has an ulterior motive. The artwork for this project was created from a shell from Limfjord, Denmark. She wants to collect oyster shells from all over the world to photograph, especially from other islands. Oyster lovers can help. Visit oysterart. ca to find out how to send her some shells to photograph. She will need to know exactly where the shells came from as their origin becomes part of the artwork story.

Oyster Art Gallery in Tyne Valley is open by chance or appointment.

For complete details and story submissions, visit oysterart.ca/ shellofastory.

#microstory300

Oyster art by Debbie Brady

Micro story competition dives into oyster art

Heather Jordan Ross

Not just for screenwriters

The annual PEI Screenwriters’ Bootcamp scheduled for May 22–28 will once again be held in Charlottetown at the Haviland Club. The six-day event will feature workshops for emerging and mid-career screenwriters and producers, as well as panels and presentations open to the general public. The activities were established to create opportunities for professional development that can lead to employment in the film and television industry.

The 14th edition of this training event will include mentor facilitated workshops on writing features, television and web series, as well as producing documentaries and an introduction to production management. Since the program operates as an incubator, past participants are encouraged to submit the projects they have in development.

Four days are earmarked for workshops and the final two days, which are open to anyone interested in finding out more about the film and television industry, consist of panels with producers and broadcasters in attendance. Specifics on panels and presentations will be available at peiscreenwritersbootcamp.net in April.

“This training opportunity only exists in PEI and is sponsored by all

levels of government as well as private corporations, which enables us to offer barrier-free professional development with no submission fees and no workshop fees, a win-win for individuals and the province as well as the rest of Canada,” commented Louise Lalonde, Project Coordinator.

The indusry in PEI is growing rapidly as is the need for content across the board, creating employment in a highly exciting and creative field. Anyone interested in producing on a full time basis or writing and keeping their day job is encouraged to explore this opportunity.

Info: Louise Lalonde, 213-7684, louise@peiscreenwritersbootcamp.net, peiscreenwritersbootcamp.net

Emma Fugate and Renee Laprise at PEI Screenwriters’ Bootcamp 2019

BOOKS PEI

We’re All Criminals

Canadian author Mima recently published her 14th book (9th in the Hernandez series) We’re All Criminals

A former Mexican narco transitions into Canadian life with family, politics and business while holding tight to his ruthless, criminal ways.

If there is one thing that Jorge Hernandez values as much as power and loyalty, it is his freedom. Despite his countless crimes and acts of vigilantism, he continues to plunge ahead playing by his own rules. While others follow like sheep, Hernandez has always been the wolf, brutally ripping apart anyone who gets in his way.

When a cop has the nerve to show up at his door and harass him, Jorge’s fury quickly ignites. Rather than sinking his teeth into this one victim, he instead takes on the entire herd, deciding to use the second season of his docuseries to expose the dirty secrets and humiliate the Canadian law enforcers. While Jorge wants to exhibit his power and publicly taunt the police, his family fears that this time, he may have pushed too far.

Even with his freedom in the balance, Jorge Hernandez won’t back down. Then again, in a world of blurred lines and uncertain morals, are we all the judge and jury, or are we all criminals?

mimaonfire.com

Morning Ba ement and Timeless Puzzlement

J. J. Steinfeld

Fiction writer, playwright, and poet J. J. Steinfeld’s twenty-first book and sixth poetry collection, Morning Bafflement and Timeless Puzzlement, has recently been published by Ekstasis Editions.

The 102 poems continue the dialogue with, and a questioning of, the human condition as they hover above what the author sees as the absurd, the existential and otherworldly elements of life, and the ordinary and the extraordinary spheres of being that Steinfeld embarked upon in his previous poetry collection, A Visit to the Kafka Café (2018). Morning Bafflement and Timeless Puzzlement once again attempts to make sense out the way we conduct our lives, to find meaning in our not always meaningful surroundings, to look at individuals caught in time and space and history, and in the sometimes joyous, sometimes frightening yet endlessly fascinating moments of existence and being.

J. J. Steinfeld lives hidden away in Charlottetown, where he is patiently waiting for Godot’s arrival and a phone call from Kafka. While waiting, he has published 21 books: two novels, thirteen short story collections and six poetry collections. Nearly 500 of his short stories and over 1000 poems have appeared in anthologies and periodicals internationally, and over 50 of his one-act plays and a handful of fulllength plays have been performed in Canada and the United States.

Steinfeld was the 2003 recipient of the Award for Distinguished Contribution to the Literary Arts on PEI, and his previous book, Gregor Samsa Was Never in The Beatles (Ekstasis Editions, 2019), was the winner of the 2020 PEI Book Award for Fiction.

Star sh of David Steven Mayo

Satirical magic-realism abounds on modern-day PEI in author Steven Mayoff’s new ebook Starfish of David Samson Grief, a reclusive painter living in Mount Russet, is struggling with a creative block. While working on a painting of North Cape he discovers a six-armed starfish, or as he calls it, Starfish of David, on the work in progress. The problem is he has no memory of painting it. Soon Samson is confronted by three redheaded strangers who identify themselves as Judas, Shylock and Fagin, figments of his imagination and messengers sent by a genderless deity known as

the Supreme One.

Having decreed the Middle East to be a hopeless mess, the Supreme One wants PEI to be the new Promised Land and tasks Samson with building the Island’s first synagogue to get the cosmic wheels rolling. Scared, confused and seriously doubting his sanity, Samson eventually, though grudgingly, accepts the challenge. And so begins an unfolding of political intrigue as well as other obstacles that Samson discovers along the way.

Starfish of David is Mayoff’s third ebook. It is currently available for preorder at Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo and Amazon until its April 24 release. Subscribe to the Steven Mayoff Indie Writer Newsletter at liriq@yahoo.com to download the full ebook now from the distributor Smashwords.

RESET:breathe Journal

Tracey Gairns Brioux

PEI author and fitness leader Tracey Gairns Brioux will launch her RESET:breathe Journal on February 22 at 8 pm live on the Reset:Breathe FB page.

Published by Acorn Press, RESET:breathe Journal is a supportive tool to guide and celebrate its readers on their journey. With cover art by Island artist Emily Howard, this hardcover journal is also a keepsake.

Each day readers will be asked to track the things that contribute to them feeling their best—top priorities being sleep, energy, movement and gratitude. The journal closes with challenges and blank pages.

Gairns Brioux, founder of RESET:breathe, has been in the fitness and wellness industry for over twenty years. In June 2018, Tracey and RESET:breathe won the Faces of Fusion Health and Wellness Award for Charlottetown. In 2018, she was nominated for the Charlottetown Chamber of Commerce Emerging Business award. In 2019, Tracey was selected as one of 30 businesses from Atlantic Canada, and the only solo led women founder, to be a member of the Propel program. She was also one of the recipients of the 2020 PEI Women in Business grants from the PEI Business Women’s Association. resetbreathe.com

RED: The Island Storybook Dog Stories

A gift of Island Poetry

IF I COULD SAY That I love you

PEIWG Literary Award submissions

The PEI Writers’ Guild (PEIWG) submissions for the 34th annual Island Literary Awards (adult) and the Rotary Club of Charlottetown Royalty Creative Writing Awards for Young People are now open. Two new award categories have been added this year: the PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada Award and the Scott Parsons Literary Award.

The Prince Edward Island Association for Newcomers to Canada Award recognizes and acknowledges the contribution made to PEI literary culture by a writer new to Canada. Anyone who has immigrated to Canada and made PEI their new home within the past five years is eligible to submit any category of writing—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, writing for children and young adults, plays, and scriptwriting—for consideration.

cells

Between my ears are bloody

And the dendrites & axons of my neurons don’t touch

But electrical messages

Cause my heart to thump For you

And that’s all there is to say In this instead sort of way

Leon Berrouard. Leon’s latest collection of poetry is Epiphany on Route 70 (Red Wheelbarrow Press, 2018).

Deirdre Kessler selects a poem a month by an Island poet for readers of The Buzz

Jay Ruzesky reading and workshops

RED: The Island Storybook has a brand new series of special editions. The inaugural volume in the series is devoted to dog stories. Yes, a full sized volume of RED completely dedicated to our faithful companions, K-9 sidekicks, those knee-high family members who never cease to amaze with the depth of their loyalty and love.

RED special editions will be published once a year. These volumes will not replace any of the three regular volumes in the RED publishing cycle, but are intended to be a bonus for all the REDheads who can’t seem to get enough. The first special edition— Dog Stories—is set to launch February 1.

UPEI Writer-in-Residence Jay Ruzesky will give a public Facebook Live reading on February 9 at 7 pm, and will lead two online half-day creative nonfiction workshops via Zoom from 12:30–4 pm, February 6 and 13.

Ruzesky is a novelist, poet, travel and memoir writer, photographer, and professor of creative writing, Canadian literature, and film studies at Vancouver Island University.

The True Stories, Well Told workshop on February 6 will focus on telling stories about the external world of “adventures, experiences, sensual places,” and on “the way stories transport us and make us consider

Named after the co-founder and first President of the Black Cultural Society of PEI, the Scott Parsons Literary Award recognizes and celebrates the outstanding literary merit of a Black, Island writer. Any PEI resident who identifies as Black or of African descent is eligible to submit a piece of writing in any categoryfor consideration.

Other categories for the Island Literary Awards in the adult category include literature for children, poetry, short story, creative non-fiction, and the Marie Coyoteblanc Award for Indigenous Writing. To enter any of these categories, writers must be 18+ and not a student in the K-12 school system.

Students in the K-12 school system are invited to submit writing on any topic to the Rotary Club of Charlottetown Royalty Creative Writing Awards for Young People. Categories include early elementary, late elementary, junior high and senior high.

“We encourage anyone with a story inside of them to submit to the Island Literary Awards,” says Mo Duffy Cobb. “The PEI Writers’ Guild is here to promote and celebrate Island writers and these awards are a great way to share your voice.”

Cash prizes are awarded to individuals who place first, second and third in both the adult and young people’s award categories at the award galas, which will take place May 29, 2021.

The deadline for all submissions is February 26 at 9 pm. Anyone wishing to submit are encouraged to review detailed submission guidelines, eligibility criteria and more at peiwritersguild.com.

the world more deeply.” The February 13 workshop, Why Me? The Self as Subject, will concentrate on how we all have worthwhile stories to tell about our own lives, stories we want and need to tell.

Information on the workshops and the public reading can be found on the Winter’s Tales FB page. For information about Ruzesky and his books, visit wordpress.viu.ca/ruzeskyj/biography. Info: Lee Ellen Pottie, lpottie@upei.ca.

Black Cultural Society of PEI has new website

The Black Cultural Society of PEI (BCSPEI) recently launched their new webiste bcspei.ca. The project was an important “next step” in their work to connect and engage with the Black community in PEI. BCSPEI continue to update the content and add additional resources. Check the site for upcoming events for Black History Month. The new website was designed by Antimatter Creative Labs. bcspei.ca

Engage PEI

Islanders continue to have their voices heard on government agencies, boards and commissions through Engage PEI. Over 22 Islanders were appointed or reappointed to nine boards in December. Boards currently looking for new members include: PEI Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, Premier’s Action Committee on Family Violence, Labour Relations Board, and Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Council. To learn more about upcoming vacancies or to apply, visit Engage PEI online.

Order of PEI nominations

The Order of PEI Advisory Council has opened nomination submissions for the 2021 awards. All submissions must be received by the Office of the Secretary by their deadline, March 26 at 4:30 pm. The Order of PEI is the highest honour the Province can bestow. It was established to recognize Islanders who make remarkable contributions to the social, economic and cultural life of their province. Consider nominating someone who has shown excellence or outstanding leadership in the community or in their chosen profession or occupation. Info: Order of PEI, Legislative Assembly, 197 Richmond St, PO Box 2000, Charlottetown, PEI C1A7N8, 368-5970, assembly.pe.ca/opei

Charlottetown budget input

The City of Charlottetown invites the public to share ideas and suggestions for the municipality’s Capital and Operational budgets for the upcoming 2021-22 fiscal period. The City’s Finance, Audit and Tendering committee has begun preparations for the budget process and, along with members of Council, is seeking input from citizens on how they would like to see money allocated on services and programs in the Capital City. This year, all pre-budget consultation will take place online. Submissions can be made at charlottetown.ca/budget. Written submissions can also be mailed or dropped off at: Finance Manager–City of Charlottetown, PO Box 98, 199 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE, C1A7K2. The deadline to submit ideas and comments is February 5 at 12 pm.

Arthritis research project

Dr. Sarah Finch PhD, RD, Dept of Applied Human Sciences at UPEI is conducting a research project to learn more about what treatments and therapies are being used by people living with arthritis. Participants of any age and with any type of arthritis or their caregivers

COMMUNITY #1

are invited to participate. Participants will take part in a one-on-one conversation online or by phone to share their experiences with arthritis management. The interviews are expected to be 30–60 minutes in length. If interested, call 5660827 or email arthritisresearch@upei.ca

International Women’s Day

NDP Women will celebrate International Women’s Day one day early this year, on Mar 7. This year’s theme is #choosetochallenge. Call 330-2248 to register.

Social housing for seniors

A new 30-unit development on Beach Grove Road will give Island seniors more options for affordable housing units in Charlottetown and help to ensure seniors have a safe and affordable place to live. A tender will be issued later this month for the design of the building with construction anticipated to start in the fall. Government will collaborate with the City of Charlottetown and consult with the public to re-zone land from institutional to residential. The project will be a net zero ready building, designed to be energy efficient. Including the Beach Grove Road development, a total 167 affordable seniors housing units are currently under construction in PEI. Government is also in the process of implementing 400 new mobile rental vouchers that help to off-set renting costs for low-income Islanders. Island seniors eligible for housing supports will pay 25 percent of their gross annual household income for a unit. To apply, visit princeedwardisland.ca/housing.

Safe battery recycling

Used batteries should be responsibly recycled. Materials recycled from batteries can be reused in other products. Drop off household batteries for recycling at one of Call2Recycle’s collection locations at any of PEI’s 25 provincial libraries, Waste Watch Drop-Off Centres, and retailers across the Island, including Staples, Home Depot, Canadian Tire, Your Independent Grocer, Foodland, Co Op, Sobeys, and the Atlantic Superstore. To safely recycle batteries, protect them by placing each battery in a clear, sealable and recyclable plastic bag and store them in a non-metal container until ready to recycle. Don’t forget to tape the ends of lithium batteries. Call2Recyle will recycle the batteries and the recyclable bags used to safely protect the batteries. Find a Call2Recycle collection location at call2recycle.ca/locator to find your nearest Call2Recycle collection box. Info: call2recycle.ca/prince-edward-island

Smoking cessation program

The province’s smoking cessation program has assisted over 1700 Islanders in quitting smoking or using tobacco products over the last year. The PEI Smoking Cessation Program offers Islanders who are ready to quit using

tobacco with a minimum of 12 weeks of nicotine replacement therapy such as nicotine gum, lozenges, patches, and inhaler, or specific cessation medications. The Smoking Cessation Program was introduced by the Chief Public Health Office in December 2019. Info: princeedwardisland.ca/quitsmoking.

Online mental health service

PEI has launched a new online mental health service in partnership with Canada Health Infoway. Bridge the gapp is an online resource for Islanders to find mental health and substance use support information and select what best meets their needs. People can connect with local clinicians, find tools and services, and share personal stories with others, all from the comfort of home. Bridge the gapp was co-designed by people with lived experience with mental illness and substance use, and community and government partners. It is part service directory, part knowledge hub, and ultimately, a go-to resource for mental health information and support. Initially developed in Newfoundland and Labrador, Bridge the gapp has been recognized nationally and internationally and has been a trusted source for resources and services since 2015. Islanders can access this new service at pei.bridgethegapp.ca. For more info on the programs and services currently available to help Islanders, visit: healthpei.ca/mentalhealthandaddictions

School board model

A new online survey will provide Islanders with another way to share their views on the best elected school board model for the Public Schools Branch. Islanders can submit their views until March 11 by filling out the online survey or submitting written comments by email to esbc@edu.pe.ca or by mail to: Elected Public School Branch Board of Directors Public Consultations Dept of Education and Lifelong Learning, PO Box 2000, Charlottetown, PE C1A7N8, Attention: Legislative and Planning Coordinator. All submissions will be considered in the development of a new governance model and the required legislative and regulatory changes under the Education Act. The Dept of Education and Lifelong Learning is also engaging with education stakeholder groups to get their input. Info: princeedwardisland.ca/ electedschoolboards

New business navigator

The PEI government’s new business navigator is ready to help guide business owners and entrepreneurs through the various provincial regulations associated with starting, owning, operating and growing a business. The role of the business navigator is to ensure business owners and entrepreneurs are connected with the right resources and information to help them make decisions regarding their business. The business navigator

will use their network of internal government partners to find answers and information on topics such as: registering a business; determining permit, license and inspection requirements; and finding resources to support and grow a business. To contact the business navigator, email businessnavigator@gov.pe.ca or call 1-833-335-0536. princeedwardisland. ca/businessnavigator

Support for community halls

A new funding program launched in January will help community halls across the Island. The COVID-19 Operational Support Program for Community Halls will provide grants of up to $2500 to assist community halls with expenses such as heat, electricity and insurance to ensure they can continue to operate. Through the division of Rural and Regional Development, the program will fund up to 80 percent of estimated operating expenses from December 2020 to March 2021, to a maximum of $2500. Funding application: princeedwardisland.ca/covid19communityhalls

Legal information videos

Community Legal Information (CLI) has created 15 new legal information videos featuring Island Seniors. Working from a grassroots model, CLI tapped into the expertise and experience of Island seniors to inform the project. Legal topics were chosen by a seniors’ advisory committee, scripts were approved by the committee, and the videos feature local seniors presenting legal information. The video series addresses topics including wills, power of attorney, health care decisions, senior care facilities and more. Four videos are in French and the 11 English language videos are available with French subtitles. The mandate of CLI is to provide Islanders with plain language information about the law and the justice system. CLI is a registered charity that provides free legal information to Islanders. The project was funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizon for Seniors Program. The videos can be accessed at legalinfopei.ca.

Energy e ciency nancing

Homeowners and business owners in Stratford and Charlottetown may soon be able to access financing for energy efficiency retrofits and renewable energy generation, as well as for climate change adaptation, such as flood-proofing and lead water line replacement. The municipalities, in partnership with PACE Atlantic CIC and Town of Wolfville, submitted an application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities—Community Efficiency Financing Initiative. If successful, the funding will allow the participating municipalities, in coordination with PACE Atlantic, to offer below market-level interest rates on financing to homeowners and business owners. This would help the public take advantage of existing efficiencyPEI programs. Additionally, up to 30 percent of the financing, if approved, can be used for non-energy related initiatives that help people better prepare for climate change impacts. Info: efficiencypei.ca, fcm.ca

Grosbeak comeback

2021 Winter Woodlot Tour

Many Islanders will remember the sight of large ocks of evening grosbeaks visiting their feeders in the 1980s. I’m sure those ocks kept sun ower growers in business all by themselves. When I lived in Montague and on the Baldwin’s Road during that time, there would be up to 120 birds coming to the feeder, looking for the small black oil sun ower seeds.

And the noise! They would wake me up in the morning with their buzzes and chirps, looking to be fed. In some ways it reminded me of spring peepers. When you hear one, it is no big deal, but the sound of a pond full of them is deafening.

Fairly quickly, we went from being visited by over a hundred at a time to not seeing any for an entire year. And they were missed. In November 2018 I had eight evening grosbeaks at the feeder in Tea Hill and it was so exciting.

An adult evening grosbeak is one of most beautiful birds that will visit a feeder in the province. The adult males, especially in their breeding plumage, are a striking combination of bright yellow, jet black, and pure white. I remember them in the winter getting more and more beautiful as spring came on, until it looked as though someone has decorated all the trees around my yard. The females and juvenile males are less colourful, but still very lovely.

Evening grosbeaks are about the size of a starling, tend to be found in flocks, and some years will nest in the province. They are well named, with large beaks easily capable of cracking bigger seeds. In the summer, they consume copious amounts of insects, while during the winter months they will eat seeds from conifers as well as

weeds. One winter I watched evening grosbeaks eating black oil sunflower seeds from the preferred platform feeder, then take a break and fly over to a bayberry bush to start eating there. I hadn’t realized that the hard, waxy bayberries were part of their diet.

We don’t actually know exactly what caused the decline in evening grosbeaks throughout the region, and why they suddenly showed up again. Over the past few months, people have been reporting 50–70 evening grosbeaks at their feeders in the province. Part of the decline was attributed to the aerial spraying of pesticides in forests that took away a lot of their food sources, including spruce budworms.

Irruptions of birds—where some years we will see a lot of birds showing up after migrating from the northern boreal forests—happen irregularly. We may go a few years with no pine siskins or American redpolls, and then as if by magic they seem to be all over the place. We do know it is dependent on food availability. When the winter fruit crops of shrubs such as winterberry holly, American mountain ash, highbush cranberry and wild rose are poor, we don’t expect large flocks of robins and waxwings to stay through the winter. But when the lemming populations crash in the tundra, we generally see snowy owls visiting to look for voles and other small rodents. This seems be happening now, as snowy owls are showing up in various locales across the province.

I have missed seeing these lovely birds in abundance over the past two decades. And whatever the reason that they have come back, I am truly glad that they have returned. I know that they are bringing joy to feeder watchers across the province.

The 2021 Winter Woodlot Tour will be held February 6 from 9 am–1 pm at 215 Buffalo Road in Rustico (Access via Rte 243, the Church Rd).

A fun, family-friendly, outdoor event, the Winter Woodlot Tour celebrates Island wildlife, forest ecosystems and sustainable woodlot use.

Watch live birds of prey and horse logging demonstrations, make and taste maple syrup, try snowshoeing, see forest wildlife up close, practice tree identification, appreciate wooden handicrafts, learn proper chainsaw maintenance and so much more. Free hot chocolate and hot apple cider will be available.

Storm date is February 20.

Info: manager@wheatleyriver.ca, winterwoodlottour.ca

Evening grosbeaks in Eastern Kings

55+ Winter Games cancelled

President Kim Knight Picketts of the PEI 55+ Games Society and Cornwall Mayor Minerva McCourt recently announced the cancellation of the PEI 55+ Winter Games due to the ongoing pandemic. Another concern was having time for planning and having a town administrative person to help with various aspects of the Games, as well as naming chairpersons and volunteers. Cornwall has committed to hosting the 2022 PEI 55+ Winter Games with a date tba. The PEI 55+ Games board of directors has unanimously approved this decision. The PEI 55+ Games serve as a qualifier for the Canada 55+ Games, which has also altered its schedule due to the pandemic. The next national event will be held Aug 22–26, 2022 in Kamloops, BC.

HC renews degree pathways

Holland College (HC) recently renewed several degree pathway agreements with Royal Roads University, located on Vancouver Island, giving graduates from several of the college’s two-year programs credit for their diploma when they pursue a degree. Graduates of HC’s Marketing and Advertising Management, Business Administration, Accounting Technology, and Tourism and Travel Management programs may receive up to 60 credit hours toward a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Graduates of HC’s Bioscience Technology, Environmental Applied Science Technology, and Wildlife Conservation Technology programs may receive up to 60 credit hours to Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science or Environmental Practice. HC has 90 agreements with 17 post-secondary institutions around the world.

Proof of vehicle insurance

Island drivers can now access and present proof of their vehicle insurance digitally. Electronic proof of automobile insurance means insurance providers can send drivers a digital version of the certificate of auto insurance, commonly known as the pink card. The digital pink card will be an exact duplicate of the paper copy that Islanders can use as proof of insurance. Islanders can contact their insurance provider to receive a digital version of their pink card. Paper copies of the card will still be available. Drivers will have the option of choosing either electronic or paper copies of their insurance certificate. Info: princeedwardisland.ca

Diabetes assistance

More Islanders with diabetes will benefit from additional financial assistance and coverage for diabetes supplies, including insulin pumps and test strips. Effective January 1, the Insulin Pump Program, which assists with the costs of insulin pumps and supplies, will be expanded to include Islanders up to 25 years old. The Diabetes Drug Program, which helps with the costs of diabetes medications and supplies, will expand monthly blood glucose test strip coverage from 100 strips to 120. In addition to financial assistance, Health PEI’s Provincial Diabetes Program offers education,

COMMUNITY #2

support and diabetes management advice to Islanders living with diabetes or those who are at risk of developing diabetes. This service is offered in various communities across the province. Info: healthpei.ca/diabetes

Tax changes

A number of tax changes announced within the 2020-2021 Operating Budget will leave more money in the hands of Islanders and businesses now when they need it most. The changes include the increase of the Low-Income Reduction Threshold from $18,000 to $19,000, the increase in the Basic Personal Amount from $10,000 to $10,500, and a reduction in the Small Business Tax from three percent to two percent, effective January 1, 2021. New this year is the $500 Children’s Wellness tax credit that parents and guardians can claim for their children’s activities throughout the year to promote their wellness. Info: princeedwardisland. ca/wellnesscredit

Youth mentors needed

Be a Big Brother, Big Sister or Big Couple with Big Brothers Big Sisters of PEI. Spend time doing things friends do: biking, hiking, baking, watching movies, etc. Help build a child’s self-esteem, provide guidance and have fun. Info: 569-5437, info@bbbspei.ca, bbbspei.ca

UPEI & HC degree pathways

Holland College (HC) and UPEI have signed 23 degree pathway agreements to enable graduates from HC to pursue their educational goals seamlessly and obtain a degree from UPEI. The continued collaboration provides students with the opportunity to continue their studies on PEI by beginning their studies at one institution and finishing at the other, receiving credit for their college diploma. Several of the agreements renew existing pathways between UPEI and HC, such as the Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, Bachelor of Environmental Studies, Bachelor of Wildlife Conservation, and the Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine pathways.

The Sport and Leisure Kinesiology pathway has been reworked to provide Sport and Leisure Management students and graduates with a clearer understanding of the entrance requirements. A new agreement for graduates of HC’s Graphic Design program gives students up to 60 credit hours toward a Bachelor of Arts degree. Info: hollandcollege.com

Ostomy Supplies Program

Increased coverage will further support Islanders under the Ostomy Supplies Program (OSP). Since January 2019, about 250 Islanders have received assistance through the provincial OSP each year. Effective January 1, changes to the program will increase coverage per income threshold. The OSP assists with the costs associated with a permanent

ostomy. Islanders may be eligible for coverage to assist with the out-of-pocket cost of ostomy supplies to a maximum of $2400 per full program year (from July 1–June 30). Under the program, eligible supplies include: skin wafers, ostomy pouches, adhesive removers, skin barrier wipes, stoma powders, pastes and barrier rings, and ostomy belts. Islanders can apply to the OSP online or call the PEI Pharmacare Program at 1-877-577-3737.

Queen’s Counsel recipients

Islanders Sophie MacDonald and Gary Demeulenaere are the most recent recipients of the Queen’s Counsel, the highest honour in the field of law. Dating back to 16th century England, the Queen’s Counsel were the select senior barristers of the High Court entrusted to provide the Crown with legal counsel. The legacy of this honour today is presented to those known for their professional experience, leadership, their contribution to public service or to their community, as well as excellence in the practice of law. This year’s Queen’s Counsel recipients will be recognized by the Honourable Antoinette Perry, Lieutenant Governor of PEI at Government House this year.

Ignition Fund for start ups

Ten start-up businesses have been supported by the Ignition Fund in 2020, each receiving a $25,000 grant. The 2020 Ignition Fund recipients were: CleanBands, Cape Reef Seafood and Smokehouse Limited, Element Extraction Technology Inc., The Island Hop Company Ltd, Kari, Pegasus Biotech, Remidose Aerosols Inc, Reset: Breathe Corporate Innovation, Terry’s Berries, and TopServe. Since the Ignition Fund launched in 2014, the program has funded 68 companies. Info: princeedwardisland.ca

PEI’s potato industry study

The potato industry contributes over $1.3 billion annually to the economy of PEI and is responsible for more than 5000 full-time equivalent jobs, according to a new study prepared by the Dept of Agriculture and Land. Research carried out by Dr. Ziad Ghaith, an economist in the department’s policy division, underlined the importance of a single crop to the people of PEI. Agriculture and Land Minister Bloyce Thompson said the study shows the importance of potatoes as a single crop, but also the opportunity for economic growth. Dr. Ghaith’s study is available at princeedwardisland.ca

HC named top college

Holland College (HC) has been named one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges again in 2020 by Research Infosource Inc. The college placed third on the list of medium-sized colleges, with a total of 82 projects completed in 2019, and 34th overall, moving up four places from last year. In total, the college

participated in $2,260,000 in sponsored research. These projects enhance the quality of college programs while providing valuable support to companies in Atlantic Canada. The college provides subject matter expertise, lab and workshop space, assistance in the preparation of research funding proposals, equipment, and project management support, while industry partners provide guidance, expertise, and financial support. Students gain invaluable problem-solving skills and interact with industry partners, while college faculty remain closely connected to industry trends, and receive important professional development. All of HC’s programs can participate in applied research projects.

Sociable Singles

PEI Sociable Singles is a non-profit, non-denominational, social group. Members are 40+. The group provides the separated, divorced, widowed and unmarried with an opportunity to participate in healthy group and social activities such as dances, potlucks, movies, walks/hikes, card games, dining, bbqs, games nights and more. Sociable Singles is not a dating club. Meet and Greet Socials are held weekly on Mon at 7 pm. West Royalty Community Centre, 1 Kirkdale Rd, Rm 6, Ch’town. sociable_ singles@yahoo.com, sites.google.com/ site/peisociablesingles

Innovation PEI funding

Innovation PEI has temporarily increased funding to eight programs to support PEI businesses impacted by COVID-19. The programs that are being adjusted focus on business investment in the areas of planning, capital investments, marketing and promotion activities, and include: Capital Acquisition; Small Business Investment Grant; Information Technology Planning; Information Technology Implementation; Human Resources Planning; Human Resources Implementation; Marketing Assistance; and Web Presence Assistance. Increases to the programs will be in effect until Mar 31. innovationpei.com

PEI Climate Stories

UPEI’s Climate Research Lab, in coordination with ClimateSense, have launched a new series of short videos exploring the impacts of climate change on PEI and the adaptation strategies being implemented by Islanders. PEI Climate Stories has been released on a YouTube Channel found at climatesense.ca. The series includes four videos: Eric Gilbert from Victoria-by-the-Sea talking about the environmental challenges and adaptation approaches to climate change in a small rural municipality; Mike Cassidy voicing his dread about the coastal erosion on PEI and its insidious impacts on his cottage property; Shepherd Adam MacLean speaking about the challenges and opportunities from climate change facing his sheep farming at South Melville; and Mike Cassidy sharing his experience in growing the haskap berry, a more environmentally friendly alternative table berry for Islander farmers. The videos were produced with Jeff Eager from Hummingbird House Productions.

The Little Big Challenge

Big Brothers Big Sisters encourages support for youth

For 42 years, thousands of Islanders have supported Big Brothers Big Sisters of PEI (BBBSPEI) by participating in Bowl for Kids Sake. This year, because of restrictions, the organization launched The Big Little Challenge. This March, BBBSPEI encourages Islanders to come together to support the youth in our community.

Heather Doran, Communications and Development Manager at BBBSPEI, says it was important not to lose the things people love about Bowl for Kids Sake—team building, community spirit, the chance to have fun together and fundraise for a great cause. She noted that by participating, teams can have a big effect with little actions, and since each week represents one of the big outcomes of their mentoring programs, participating will be a great way to see the impact of the community’s support.

The Big Little Challenge will begin March 8 and run for three weeks. Teams across PEI can have fun together while fundraising and completing the themed challenges: Mental Health & Well-Being, Trying New Things, and Making a Difference.

Staff at BBBSPEI have developed

FOOD

PEISO annual fruit sale

separate business or friends and family activity lists.

There will also be a Signature Challenge each week that allows teams to show their collective creativity while competing for great prizes. As with many of the other weekly challenges, the Celebrate Summer in the Winter, Great Chili Cook Off, and Go Bowling COVID-19 Style Signature Challenges come with suggested activities. Teams are encouraged, however, to choose their own adventure and come up with something that works for them.

The focus is on team fundraising instead of individual totals. Every team that raises $100 or more will receive a certificate and a chance to win prizes. The more teams raise and the more challenges they complete, the more they can win. To help with fundraising, BBBSPEI will provide team kits, raffle tickets and online fundraising.

By participating, Islanders can help provide mentors for youth who face adversity. Mentors challenge growth, provide support, expand possibilities and empower youth to succeed.

To register your team, call 569-KIDS (5437), 1-877-411-3729, email info@ bbbspei.ca or visit bbbspei.ca.

The PEI Symphony Orchestra’s (PEISO) annual fruit sale fundraiser begins Saturday, February 27, 2021. The orchestra will be selling oranges and grapefruits at the Charlottetown Farmers Market on Saturdays from February through April. The annual citrus sale plays a key role in the symphony’s yearly fundraising efforts as the profits help fund concert events and educational outreach across the Island.

Cooking Together classes

Kings Playhouse Cooking Together classes begin Feb 6 and feature Island chefs Jen MacDonald, Terry Nabuurs, Amil Zavo and Robert Pendergast. Each chef will show participants how to prepare delicious and affordable meals using locally sourced ingredients. Jen MacDonald will start the series with a special class for kids Feb 6 at 10:30 am. Class size is limited but classes will be filmed and shared online. Info: 1-888-3465666, kingsplayhouse.com

Cooking with Culture

The PEI Community Navigators present Cooking with Culture online classes. This free winter activity will feature some of PEI’s new residents and longtime

locals who will share their culture and guide participants through the cooking process of one of their favourite recipes. An ingredient list, locations to source ingredients and Zoom link will be supplied five days in advance. Registration is accepted until 3 pm on the day of the event. Participants won’t be able to cook along if they register late. Pending approval from presenters, a recording will be shared to those who register and attend each week. Email info.communitynavigator@cbdc.ca to register. Info: follow @PEICommunityNavigators on FB.

Chef of the year

Executive Chef Andrew Smith from Red Shores Racetrack & Casino in Ch’town was recently awarded Chef of the Year 2019 by the PEI Association of Chefs and Cooks. Andrew has been an active member of the Association since 2012. In 2019, he participated in various culinary events, outreach, competitions and travel representing PEI and Red Shores. Smith also played a leading role in the Fall Flavours events at Top of the Park with Chef Antonio Park, Chef Dustin Gallagher and Chef Ned Bell. Chef of the Year is awarded annually to an individual that contributes to the success of the Association and demonstrates dedication through their commitment to actively training within the profession.

March BUZZ deadline

Friday, February 12

The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson

Rare birds

Epekwitk Assembly of Councils building

The new Epekwitk Assembly of Councils building is nearing completion on the Charlottetown waterfront. The state-of-the-art structure will house the Assembly Chamber for the PEI Mi’kmaq leadership, as well as provide office space for L’nuey (the Epekwitk Mi’kmaq rights initiative) and the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI—sister organizations under the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils.

This landmark is an important stepping-stone towards reconciliation and is a long overdue presence for the Mi’kmaq leadership in the province’s capital city.

Our birdfeeder is alive and well, with an assertion of bluejays, a lament of mourning doves, an aria of chickadees, a jumble of juncos, an inversion of nuthatches, a tap of ickers… I’ve been reading too much Dylan Thomas. (Can you actually read too much?) And to our great joy, a new and rather ostentatious arrival has joined the regulars at our bird soup kitchen: an Eastern Towhee.

I’d never even heard of such a bird until last week and that’s not surprising. In the old PEI Field Check List of Birds (1977) the Eastern Towhee was reportedly seen on the Island only 9 times per century! Fifty years later the checklist bumped Eastern Towhee sightings up to 9 times per decade— thanks to global warming? Perhaps our towhee was blown off-course in a storm, or just moved to the Island for personal reasons. He may, for example, have heard Premier King mentioning that the Island is the envy of Canada and figured, “What the heck.”

For those who care about such details: Island Nature Trust assures us that ours is an Eastern Towhee and not a Rufous-sided Towhee (rufous meaning red.) These two are very similar, their slight differences having arisen during the last Ice Age when glaciers split the continent down the middle, and towhees had to decide whether to live on the eastern or western side of the great divide.

We first noticed our towhee by his striking garb: handsome black back, tail and neck; snowy white breast and under-tail; reddish-amber flanks. Like a bird dressed for the theatre. Like Fred Astaire. At first we thought a robin was rooting around under the currant bushes, but this bird was smaller and doing some fancy footwork, scattering snow and debris behind him in all directions. Out with the bird books: it

was a towhee, a largish ground-feeding sparrow with a short seed-cracking beak who eats practically everything smaller than himself: spiders, caterpillars, ants, wasps, bees, grasshoppers, small amphibians, even snakes and lizards; and as I mentioned, towhees are sighted on PEI only a few times per decade.

Our towhee is around every day and we’re almost blasé about his presence. He himself is happy to be ignored as long as he gets his turn at the feeder. So that’s been exciting since not much else is going on in the Cove. Days getting longer, yay! Grain stubble on the fields instead of lumpy potato mounds and plenty of snow on the ground for cross-country skiing, yay! Schools open, school buses making their rounds, yay! Spanish clementines still in stores, yay! … although this winter has brought minus 25C weather to Spain and that can’t be good for future orange crops.

What did I say about Premier King declaring that PEI is the envy of Canada? Maybe he meant, “We are the envy of the world.”

So look out for more rare birds. We have friends in Rustico who have cardinals living on their property. What next? Flamingoes? Perhaps.

Adult spelling bee

The 3rd Annual Adult Spelling Bee hosted by the Montague Rotary Library at Copper Bottom Brewing will be held February 24 at 6 pm.

Space is limited. Interested participants should email montague@gov. pe.ca or phone 838-2928 to sign up as a speller in advance. There will be fun prizes for the winners.

Copper Bottom Brewing is located at 567 Main St, Montague.

The building will also serve as an economic driver for the PEI First Nations. The main purpose of the ground floor is to assist in the incubation and development of Indigenous businesses and to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and showcase artisans.

The Epekwitk Assembly of Councils building will be a focal point of Mi’kmaq history and culture, with artwork and artisan design being reflected on the interior and exterior.

The environmentally friendly building was designed with colours and materials that symbolize the red earth, blending in with adjacent buildings and incorporating circles and curves that feature prominently in Mi’kmaq culture. Coast Design Inc Architects is responsible for the building design.

Aboriginal and Treaty rights

L’nuey launched a campaign on Aboriginal and Treaty Rights in mid-January, which runs until February 14, with the goal of increasing public and community understanding of foundational terms.

The campaign highlights a number of foundational terms and concepts

such as: Aboriginal Rights, Treaty Rights, Self-Governance, Section 35 of the Constitution Act, the Marshall Decision, the Sparrow Decision, the Indian Act, and the Mi’kmaq-PEICanada Framework Agreement.

The campaign is meant to inform and expand upon Islanders knowledge of the foundational terms connected to Aboriginal and Treaty Rights and how they pertain to the Mi’kmaq of PEI. Legal and historical background surrounding Aboriginal and Treaty Rights is complex. Ensuring individuals, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, have the information to develop an informed perspective is essential for short and long-term success of all relationships as well as an important step in the reconciliation process. For more information about where to find the terms, visit lnuey.ca.

Daniel O’Hanley Memorial Lecture

The Latin American Mission Program will present the 29th annual Daniel O’Hanley Memorial Lecture online via Zoom, February 7 at 2 pm.

The lecturers are Dr. Andrea Reid of the Nisga’a nation and her spouse, John-Francis Lane.

The topic is Indigenous Fishery: Rights, Resilience, and Revival.

Reid is Assistant Professor with the University of British Columbia’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries. She leads the Indigenous Fisheries Research Unit. Lane is a conservationist with a BSc in Natural Resource Conservation from the University of British Columbia.

All are welcome. The Zoom link is: us02web.zoom.us/j/87626193662?pwd=QXp5M01ENGxnaFhkdW1HdnFJejNPQT09 with passcode 242267.

Info: Marie Burge, 894-4573

(If you don’t want to attempt typing that Zoom URL, see the event on the calendar at buzzpei.com for a clickable link.)

NEW RELEASES

Humor Russell Louder

Russell Louder’s debut album Humor will be released February 26 by Lisbon Lux Records.

Louder is a trans artist originally from PEI, now based in Montreal. They make electro-pop that’s carried by a powerful clear voice reminiscent of Florence and the Machine, London Grammar, Austra, Eurythmics or La Roux.

With only three singles released to date, one of which has reached over 300K streams on Spotify (“Light Of The Moon”), Louder is described by CBC as “A star in the making.” Their debut singles have been featured prominently on CBC Radio 1, 3 and Q. Louder was also a finalist in the 2019 CBC MusicSearchlightcompetition (which showcases undiscovered Canadian musicians).

Louder is an artist who loves contact with the public and immerses themselves in it. Fans only have to see them in concert once to fall for the luminous and authentic world they built, both poignant and danceable, just like their music. “I make music for dancing and crying,” they say.

While the music is sometimes danceable, the lyrics are thought-provoking and highlight Louder’s talent as a storyteller. Each song on Humor is the musical embodiment of the real or fictional characters that populate their imagination. Listening to Humor, it becomes evident that the Maritime folk music that Russell grew up with on PEI has influenced their way of writing and storytelling.

On Humor, Louder talks about memory, grief and identity.They are interested in exploring and weaving the stories that emerge from those themes to create a liberating experience for the listener. These stories infuse the audience with emotions that are both personal and universal.

Pre-order a copy at russelllouder.bandcamp.com/ album/humor

Category 1 Luka Hall

Thirteen year old Luka Hall of Charlottetown recently released his second album, Category 1. He released his first album, That Little Fiddle Player at the age of ten.

Category 1 has of a mix of strathspeys, jigs, reels and waltzes. It features Annie Kitson on keyboard and Julien Kitson on guitar, bass, box drum, and kick and snare drum. Abi McCarthy also hops on a track with ukulele. The final track on the album features both Luka and Richard Wood playing a fiddle duet with Richard Wood also playing keyboard.

Category 1 was recorded at The Studio at The Guild with David Rashed. CD’s can be purchased by sending a direct message to @lukafiddle on social media or by emailing lukahallmusic@gmail.com.

For the Sake of the Song

Bob Jensen

engineered by ECMA Award winner Chris Corrigan and features Emma LeBlanc (Vishtèn), James Keelaghan, dobro virtuoso Doug Cox and former Oysterband cellist, Ray Cooper. All guitar work was done by Corrigan at his home studio in Charlottetown.

“Sometimes I wonder if people fully appreciate what a great talent and a great resource Chris is,” says Jensen. “He is both a gifted musician and a fantastic producer who brings a lifetime of experience.”

The first single, “Who By Fire,” was recently released in Canada, Australia and Europe. firsttimesinceaugust.com

On Time

Noah Malcolm

Stratford’s Bob Jensen released For the Sake of the Song in January.

Jensen, who had not produced an album of music since 1985, says that he recorded two songs just to see if he could still sing and had so much fun doing it that he decided to release a full album. The new project features ten mostly obscure cover songs from songwriters such as Leonard Cohen, Woody Guthrie, Townes Van Zandt and Tom Waits.

“Some of these songs have been with me for more than 40 years,” says Jensen, “and for many different reasons, mean a great deal to me.”

For the Sake of the Song was produced and

Born from the strings of a borrowed guitar, PEI singer and songwriter Noah Malcolm’s four-song, self-produced EP entitled On Time was released in December.

The first single “Give In” was released in August 2020 with an accompanying music video. The track is an energy-packed introspective of the creative process with big drums, an open-tuned acoustic and a dynamic vocal that traps the listener into Malcolm’s dreamworld.

His second single “If Not” was released last October and leans more into the folk realm with its playful lilt and meter changes as it interrogates the things that hold us back while poking fun at being self-involved. A self-made music video for “If Not” was released in December. The video was filmed on PEI in his parents’ backyard and highlights the artist’s quirks and resourcefulness as he assembles an outdoor living room and delightfully dances and performs the lively tune.

The remaining two tracks from the EP include “Permission,” written during the lockdown in March. Ethereal synths and a string trio create a comforting mosaic that carries this mid-tempo guitar ballad along with its message of finding peace in uncertainty. “The Finish Line” is a meditation on pursuit and persistence that starts softly before firing on all cylinders for the highest emotional peak of the record.

Malcolm’s music career has taken him from playing by ear, to studying classically, to professionally music directing for theatre across the country.

Malcolm is looking forward to working on new music after the release. “The EP feels like a foundation for me. I’ve always felt like a songwriter, but never had the body of work to show for it. These songs tell my story as an artist but I’m excited to share new stuff; different genres and perspectives.”

Hip Hop’s Heel

Adam Robbins

“Saturday Is Seven” (remix) Braden Lam & Good Neighbour

Braden Lam and producer Colin Buchanan (Good Neighbour) have re-imagined the lead single ”Saturday Is Seven” from Lam’s EP Inside Four Walls

The ”Saturday Is Seven” Good Neighbour remix strikes a balance between a song you could chill out to after a long day at work or get lost to on the living room dance floor.

“As humans, we tend to get so caught up in the 9–5 work week that we only live for the weekends. We numb ourselves to the present,” says Lam. “I hope this song sets you free. It’s a reminder to take a deep breath, put away your distractions, and connect with how you feel in this very moment.”

The single is the first in a series of releases leading up to the deluxe version of Inside Four Walls coming this March.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered

12–14

PEI producer and rapper Adam Robbins recently released a new album Hip Hop’s Heel featuring DJ IV. Robbins worked closely with PEI’s Red Rock Wrestling to create a wrestling themed Hip Hop album with a strong Island feel and had Sandstone Comics do the album artwork to seal the deal.

Hip Hop’s Heel is available on all digital platforms or message @adamrobbinsraps on FB for a copy.

“Ain’t Goin’ Out Like That”

Andrew Waite

Andrew Waite released his new single “Ain’t Goin’ Out Like That,” co-written by Colin MacDonald (The Trews), in January.

Combining raw sound with electric showmanship, Waite has a passion for songwriting, stage performance and music education. His songs are honest and rugged, making for an unforgettable experience when paired with his dynamic live shows.

He is currently working with producer Chris Kirby (Quote the Raven, Charlie A’Court) on a brand new album for 2021. andrewwaitemusic.com

“The Bleeding Heart” Arsenal Mills

PEI-based band Arsenal Mills continue their quest to reimagine rock n’ roll with the release of their single, “The Bleeding Heart,” the second of a few songs set to be released ahead of the band’s forthcoming debut EP, Lovesick & Broke

“‘The Bleeding Heart’ was never meant to be an Arsenal Mills song,” muses vocalist and guitarist Brad Milligan. “It began as a song for someone special in my life, so I was planning on keeping it for myself, but it was a little too raw.”

He continues. “I’m not usually one to write love songs, but ‘The Bleeding Heart’ isn’t your average love song. After showing it to the band, we collectively realized it was worth working on.”

“Ghost”

BraedenV

Local musician and rapper BraedenV recently released the single “Ghost,” and he says it is his most personal song to date. The song features the artist rapping about the aftermath of a toxic relationship over echoing guitars and a powerful drum rhythm.

BraedenV opens up about the physical and emotional toll the relationship took on his life, touching on themes of abandonment, trust, dependency and mental health.

“Ghost” follows his last single, “Good Life,” released in November 2020. Both songs were recorded at the Hill Sound Studio in Charlottetown by music producer Adam Gallant.

BraedenV plans to release one song a month in 2021, to be available on all major streaming platforms.

“Expert Mode” Slime Da Garbage Mane

Local hip hop artist Slime Da Garbage Mane has released a music video for “Expert Mode,” a single from his project In Da Crib Music released in May 2020. “Expert mode” is a melodic romp recorded and mastered by PEI engineer DJ Niimo. The song’s instrumental was made by Georgia producer Evildoer, marking their second collaboration. The first being “Rari Jacket,” released in January 2020.

Charlottetown/Toronto videographers Jett Roberts and Jodie Hood (Mossboy) shot the video over two weeks in the summer of 2020. The video makes use of Oyster Bed, PEI’s vibrant scenery, the Oyster Bed Speedway, and the now derelict Tortuga Motel.

Distribution by rising hip hop blog Masked Faces helped spread of the video in the underground scene.

“Expert Mode” is a display of contemporary alternative trap music. The video can be viewed on YouTube.

linktr.ee/slimedagarbagemane

Mike Ross has created new original musical arrangements for Signed, Sealed, Delivered at Harmony House, performing with Melissa MacKenzie. Shows are February 12 and 13 at 8 pm and February 14 at 2 pm.

Remember how exciting it felt to receive a letter? Whether delivered by the postman or slipped into your school locker between classes, a handwritten letter meant that somebody was thinking about you.

This February, Ross and MacKenzie take a look at the lost art of letter writing by snooping through the mail of some of history’s most famous figures, and a few ordinary people besides.

The evening will feature music ranging from Beethoven to Johnny Cash and the extraordinary letters that began relationships, ended relationships, and changed the course of history. You may even be inspired to grab a pen and paper to put down some words of your own.

Tickets can be purchased through the venue’s website, harmonyhousetheatre.com, Ticketpro or by calling 1-888-311-9090.

The Hounds of Winter

Sean Kemp, Chris Corrigan and Adam Hill perform at Trailside—Feb 9

The show will feature diverse rearrangements of music ranging from jazz to pop to folk to rock to Prokofiev. Sean, Chris and Adam will also be featuring their own compositions and songs.

Between them, these musicians have been featured individually on over 150 albums and have been recognised for their work multiple times by the awards and nominations they have received.

Sean Kemp, Chris Corrigan and Adam Hill bring The Hounds of Winter to Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on February 9.

Mike Ross and Melissa MacKenzie at Harmony House—Feb

VENUES

Trailside Music Hall

Located in The Arts Hotel, 155 Kent St, Charlottetown. Doors at 6:30 pm with music at 8 pm. Tickets at trailside.ca.

Craig Fairs Presents: Mix-Tape

Sundays Feb 7 & 21

Craig Fair is best known as the host, director and performer of Late Night at the Mack and as Music Director of the Charlottetown Festivals’ Jesus Christ Superstar, Kronborg, and Mamma Mia For this regular bi-weekly show, Craig will be joined by Alicia Toner, Evan McCosham, Trevor Grant and Josh Langille, as well as special guests. Each night will feature music from a new genre, era or artist.

Hounds of Winter: Sean Kemp, Chris Corrigan & Adam Hill

Feb 9

Sean Kemp, Chris Corrigan and Adam Hill perform diverse rearrangements of music ranging from jazz to pop to folk to rock to Prokofiev. The show will also feature the artists’ own compositions.

Logan Richard Band Feb 11 & 12

The Remedy: Brielle Ansems, Melissa MacKenzie & Julain

Molnar

Feb 16 & 17

A trio of warm, rich voices are coming together as The Remedy to ease a trying time. The show will feature musical performances across genres, from country and folk to pop and musical theatre.

Brielle Ansems is a singer, songwriter, actor and artist. Her original lyrical music fuses folk sensibilities with pop and R&B influences to create an emotionally charged, poetic experience.

Melissa MacKenzie is a performer, creator and activist from PEI. She is trying to figure out how to build a life around storytelling, menstrual equity and loving other humans.

Julain Molnar has been a fixture in the Canadian theatre world for the past 36 years and has performed lead roles in more than 100 plays and musicals across North America.

Mo Kenney & Lucy Farrell

Feb 18

Mo’s upcoming release Covers offers a glimpse into the molecular musical composition of the artist interpreting them. Singer and songwriter Lucy Farrell crafts songs on the human condition with simple accompaniment on tenor guitar and viola.

Charlie A’Court Feb 19

Singer, songwriter and guitarist planted at the crossroads of roots and soul. A mighty voice, fierce guitar work and contemporary songwriting have earned him an international following.

Brandon Howard Roy: Album Release Party Feb 20

After almost 10 years in the music industry (and only at age 21), Logan Richard is gearing up to release his first studio recorded album.

The self-titled album, produced by Adam Gallant, is set for release in March, but Logan and his band—Bruce Rooney, Sam Langille, Ben Aitken and Josh Langille—will be hosting this night as a soft release party.

Smitten: A Winter Revue

Catherine MacLellan & Tanya

Davis Feb 13 & 14

Featuring significant others and local special guests with words, music, and that variety show charm.

Gordie MacKeeman - Islander

Day Matinee Feb 15

The roots quartet features all-star pickers and singers with everything from downhome country to reckless rockabilly to intricate bluegrass.

Nominated for two 2021 Music PEI Awards (New Artist of the Year, Digital Achievement of the Year), Brandon Howard Roy will release his debut album Tough Stuff

Garrett Mason Feb 22 & 23 JUNO award winning blues musician and son of veteran Canadian Bluesman, Dutch Mason.

Two Hours Tra c Feb 24–26

Two Hours Traffic was a staple of the Canadian indie-rock boom of the 2000s, releasing four albums from 2004-2013.

John Connolly Feb 27

Liam Corcoran was the co-founder of the popular indie-pop group Two Hours Traffic. Since the group disbanded, Corcoran has embarked on a solo career. His most recent album, Nevahland, earned him two 2018 Music PEI Awards.

Ontario native Nick Doneff has become a staple in the PEI music scene. After building a reputation as a sideman and multi-instrumentalist, Doneff has emerged as an independent singer and songwriter following the release of his self-titled debut album in 2016.

Brielle Ansems plays a wide variety of styles, spanning from soft folk-pop to blues to classic rock. Her music is reflective and often melancholic, touching on themes like the struggles and triumphs of love and the search for personal identity.

Dennis Ellsworth Feb 13

Valentine’s Day at The Haviland

Love songs define Valentine’s Day so of course there will be a variety of love songs performed at the Valentine’s Eve concert on February 13 at the Haviland Club in Charlottetown.

The concert will have performances by The Montgomerys who will feature songs adapted from the poetry of Lucy Maud Montgomery. Guitarist George Marshall will bring a classical approach to Valentine’s, and Andrea MacDonald will also perform. Additional artists to be announced.

The singer and songwriter has released several of his own works, produced albums for other artists, and served as a performer, director, musical director and writer in theatre, film, radio and television.

The Recital: The Show with Kimberly Mooney & Guests

Feb 28

Debut author Kimberly Mooney will present a musical book reading of The Recital, a sonata of broken hearts, blended family and pinot grigio. Featuring book insights, readings and performances by Sam and Josh Langille, Lawrence Maxwell, Kelley Mooney, Katie McGarry, Justyn Young, Larry Koughan, Kimberly Mooney Koughan, and The Good Ol’ Boys.

Copper Bottom

Located at 567 Main Street, Montague. Doors at 6:30 pm with show at 7:30 pm. Tickets in the taproom or at eventbrite.ca.

Songwriter’s Circle: Liam Corcoran, Nick Done & Brielle Ansems Feb 6

Dennis Ellsworth is a songwriter, performer and producer from Charlottetown. His most recent project is a three album series called Bound by Love which began in December 2020 with the release of Flowers in Your Head and will continue this March with The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side, concluding with Wolves Not Far in April. These albums in their entirety are only available for purchase through Ellsworth’s Bandcamp page.

Mo Kenney Feb 20

Show time is 7:30 pm. Admission is by donation with net proceeds going to Lennon House and ISCA (isca-aidc.ca).

The Haviland Club is located at 2 Haviland St, Charlottetown.

For more info, call 940-5864 or email themontgomeryspei@gmail.com.

Jeanie & Charles

Jeanie & Charles will be on stage at Music at the Manse in Marshfield on February 26. Doors open at 6 pm. Show time is 7 pm. The duo has been busy working on new original songs and putting their spin on a wide variety covers. Tickets include a homemade dessert and are available by calling 213-2861. Music at the Manse is located at 14155 St Peter’s Rd, Marshfield.

TRIVIA

Radley

“Totally Rad Trivia” on Wed at 7:30 pm. The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-5200

Darcy Campbell

Entertainment trivia on Thu at 9 pm. Hunter’s Ale House, 185 Kent St, Charlottetown. 367-4040

Barry Parsons

Trivia on Thu at 7 pm. PEI Brewing Company, 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. 629-2739

Spencer & Dan

Dartmouth singer and songwriter Mo Kenney’s willingness to unflinchingly pursue her artistic impulses on her own terms has resulted in numerous accolades over the past decade, including a 2013 SOCAN Songwriting Prize for her song “Sucker,” a nomination for the 2016 JUNO Adult Alternative Album of the Year for In My Dreams, and many East Coast Music Awards and Nova Scotia Music Awards.

Trivia on Fri at 7:30 pm. Lone Oak Brewing, 103 Abegweit Blvd, BordenCarleton. 729-2228

Dave Connolly

“Toughest Trivia in Town” on Sat at 2:30 pm. The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-5200

Andrew Rollins

Music trivia on Sun at 9 pm. Hunter’s Ale House, 185 Kent St, Charlottetown. 367-4040

HERE TO HELP

BUZZIFIEDS

BE MINE: SHARING VALENTINE MEMORIES offers hearts galore between the covers of this nostalgic book. Island author Kathy Birt is bringing back her book of 1950s valentines, available exclusively at The Book Mark.

ORGANIC VEGGIE DELIVERY

Home delivery of fresh local organic veggies, foods, and other natural products. $25 / $40 / $50 Veggie Boxes or custom orders. Aaron Koleszar aaron@organicveggiedelivery.com, 902-629-2575

HANDYMAN FOR HIRE!

No job is too small so contact me to help you tackle your “to do” list! FACEBOOK: Joe Mullen Handyman Services. EMAIL: joemullenhandymanservices@gmail.com

GET YOUR OWN BUZZIFIED.

30 words $18 (tax included). Buy in bulk to save—6 months for $80 (tax included). Copy and payment due by deadline.

NEXT DEADLINE

Office: 75 Fitzroy Street, Suite 201 Phone: 902-566-7770

Email: sean.casey@ parl.gc.ca

Submissions and advertising booking deadline for the March issue: Friday, February 12th

Advertising: sales@buzzpei.com

Editorial: info@buzzpei.com

@buzzpei

Editor/Sales: Yanik Richards

Editor: Michelle Ollerhead

Creative Media: Greg Webster

Partners: Maggie Lillo (Ruby Square Graphic Design), Carly Martin (Hawthorne House Media)

Contributers: Leon Berrouard, Julie Bull, Bryan Carver, Jan Cox, Deirdre Kessler, Takako Morita, JoDee Samuelson, Gary Schneider, Mimi Wakelin

The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.

Mail: P.O. Box 1945, Charlottetown, PE C1A7N5

Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1H9 Phone: 902-628-1958

E-mail: info@buzzpei.com

Website: www.buzzpei.com

Social Media: @buzzpei

Cover Cherries on Top, oil paining on canvasand 12”x12”

Mimi Wakelin is a visual artist who works with oil, acrylic, and watercolour. She lives in Rice Point with her partner and two dogs.

She recently started an Instagram account @mimiwakelinart to showcase her art. You can also find her work at Freckles and Porcelain, a local shoppe in St. Peters, PEI.

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Compensation for errors in advertising copy which are the proven responsibility of the publisher is limited to a maximum of the cost of the placement of the advertisement.

LIVE MUSIC

Baba’s Lounge

Michael Peters every Saturday at 8 pm. Island Jazz every Thursday at 8 pm. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-7377

Bogside Brewing

Live music every Friday at 6 pm and Saturday at 5 pm. Billy White (Feb 5), Matt Hannah (6), Stephen Szwarc (12), Rodney Perry (13), Ryan Merry & Emily Coffin (19), Ashley Gorman (20), Dave Woodside (26), and Bridgette Blanchard (27). Brook St, Montague. 940-7403

Brothers 2

Live music every Thursday and Friday at 7 pm. Nick Hann (Feb 4), Dave Woodside (5), Roland Beaulieu (11), Chris & Eric (12), Trevor Cameron (18), Danielle MacDonald (19), Mitch O’Blenis (25), and Joce Reyome (26). Water St, Summerside. 436-9654

Copper Bottom Brewing

Saturday Jams with Brad Oliver and company every Saturday from 2–4 pm, featuring members of the Rubber Boot Band and friends. Guests include Mike Page, Peter Lux, Carter MacLellan, Ben Mitzuk, Scott Taylor, and more. Tunes

On Tap every Sunday at 3 pm. Upcoming guests include: Richard Wood & Remi Arsenault (Feb 7), Pascal Miousse (14), JJ Chaisson & Darla MacPhee (21), Colin Jeffery, Mark Douglas & Claudie Mackula (28). Admission is free. 567 Main St, Montague. 361-2337

Gahan House

Acoustic live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 pm. 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown. 626-BEER

John Brown Grille

Live music every Saturday at 2 pm. Richie Bulger (Feb 6, 27), Vintage 2.0 (13), Kim Albert Duo (20). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. 629-2739

Lone Oak Brewing

Sundays at 1 pm, Dave Woodside

showcases Music PEI Awrd nominees. Matt Hannah (Feb 7), Jon Matthews (14), Brielle Ansems (21), Brandon Howard Roy (28). 103 Abegweit Blvd, BordenCarleton. 729-2228

Music at the Manse

Host Tim Archer and local musicians. Concerts are held in the restored theatre room originally built in 1830. Upcoming events: Jeannie and Charles (26). Doors open at 6 pm. Shows begin at 7 pm. 14155 St Peter’s Rd, Marshfield. 213-2861

Olde Dublin Pub

Live music every Friday and Saturday. 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown. 892-6992

The Old Triangle

Roy Johnstone & Friends every Sunday at 2 pm. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown. 892-5200

PEI Brewing Company

Live music every Friday in the Taproom at 6 pm. 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. 629-2739

Red Dirt Girl Music Room

Jason Price (13); Dan Doiron (20); Nolan Compton with Roland Beaulieu (Mar 20). Bring your own chair and beverages. Shows are at 7 pm (unless otherwise noted). Limited tickets available by reservation only at cameronproductionspe@ gmail.com or 439-7591. 140 Dunk River Rd, Summerside.

Summerside Legion

Kitchen Party every Saturday at 2 pm, featuring Rheal Arsenault, Andy Paynter and a special guest each week. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside. 436-2091