Culture Home Recreation Holiday 2011 | Volume 5 | Issue 4
FREE
Chef Christie MassĂŠ Visits
Oegema Turkey Farm JBweldz Creative Metal Art Classes on the New Elgin Arts Trail Entertaining Elgin: Stephanie McIlroy
From original paintings to pottery, you’ll find unique gifts for everyone on your list at the twelve studios, galleries and crafters along the Elgin Arts Trail.
Experience Elgin’s Finest Visual Arts Attractions at: Portside Gallery • Peter Robson Studios • Minerva Art Gallery Pinecroft Ceramic Art Studio • The Arts & Cookery Bank St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre • Jennifer M. Designs Village Crier Gallery • Shelley McVittie’s Gallery Sparta Country Candles • Clayworks Studio • Little Red Mitten
www.elginartstrail.ca
Welcome
FROM THE EDITOR Our aim in putting together each edition of Relish Elgin is to connect area residents and visitors to the products, services, events and activities that make our county a unique place to live and visit—a place to Relish (savour, enjoy, experience to the full). Since so much of our lives is connected to the seasons, our underlying theme is always a seasonal one. Usually, quite by chance, another theme will appear wending its way through the stories as we put them together. In this, our 5th Holiday Edition, it has been the inspiring ways that people have discovered their gifts and talents and put them to use, with joy and verve, in their work. It is wonderful to be around such enthusiasm, plus we get to enjoy the fruits of their labour (one of a kind metal art from JBweldz, the musical talents of Stephanie McIlroy, and locally grown turkey specialties from the Turkey Shoppe, managed by Annie Oegema). Each has taken an interesting change in direction to find their chosen career path. We have also included an article about five of the artisans on the newly launched Elgin Arts Trail—ones who combine teaching with their work, offering you the chance to discover or develop your own hidden talents. Why not give an adult or child on your Christmas list lessons in painting, pottery, knitting or photography, for a gift that will last a lifetime? As always, don't forget to check the Relish Elgin website (www.relishelgin.ca) for up-to-date information on all of the events going on in Elgin this Holiday Season. There are tons! Happy Holidays.
Debra RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 5 The Season's Events in Elgin 13 Entertaining Elgin: Stephanie McIlroy by Anita LaRue
16 Map of Elgin 19
Featuring locally in-season produce The New Elgin Arts Trail Workshops and lessons on the Trail
23 The Turkey Shoppe
Chef Christie Massé visits Oegema Turkey Farm and features a recipe for Turkey Curry
29 Marvellous Metal Creations A look at JBweldz Creative Metal Art
Our Cover Image
Courtesy of Jim Stinson of Canadale Nurseries (an avid photographer). Don't miss Canadale's Christmas Open Houses Nov 12, 13, 26 & 27, where you can learn how to create sensational urns and wreaths that will say "welcome" to your visitors over the holiday season. See the Canadale ad on page 11 for more information. Editor • Debra Bagshaw • editor@relishelgin.ca Design • Joanne Bagshaw • jo@relishelgin.ca Advertising Info • ads@relishelgin.ca TO SUBSCRIBE Send a cheque for $10 (to cover mailing) to the following address. Includes 5 issues. Relish Elgin Magazine P.O. Box 20058, St. Thomas, ON, N5P 4H4 519-633-1992
www.relishelgin.ca
Copyright 2011, Relish Marketing & Promotions Inc. All rights reserved. Relish Elgin is published by Relish Marketing & Promotions Inc. Reproduction of any material published in Relish Elgin is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the Publisher.
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Little Mitten “a woolly inspiring place”
Quality Knitting & Spinning Supplies
GIFTS FOR THE KNITTER IN YOUR LIFE Gift Certificates Available Mon-Sat 10-5, Thurs & Fri 10-8 86 Talbot St., St. Thomas (across from Jumbo) 519-207-2880 www.littleredmitten.ca
because you deserve it... FEATURING
ST. TROPEZ SPRAY TANNING SPA SERVICES FOR MEN & WOMEN JANE IREDALE MINERAL MAKEUP
Gift Certificates & Gift Baskets Available Group Spa & Bridal Parties Welcome
Mon 10am-4pm, Tues-Fri 8:30am-7pm & Sat 8am-4pm
76 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
519-631-7629
www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com
Wind n Willow
HOME DÉCOR . INTERIOR DECORATING . GIFT WARE KITCHEN . GOURMET GOODS
Rootham Gourmet • The Garlic Box • Wind & Willow Mixes Fashion Jewellery & Handbags • Pashminas Lampe Berger • Teas & Accessories • Wall Art • Christmas Decor 435 Talbot St, St. Thomas • 519.637.3904 www.windnwillow.ca & www.windnwillowstaging.com
Š istockphoto.com/kirstypargeter
Events
'Tis the Season! ONGOING EVENTS
Tues Nov 1 to Sat Nov 26 EXHIBITION: WE WILL Tues Sept 6 to Sun Nov 27 REMEMBER EXHIBITion: ALL THAT Reception Fri Nov 11th, 7-10pm GLITTERS IS NOT GOLD Art Gallery of Lambeth Aylmer & District Museum 6-2454 Main St | 519-652-5556 14 East St, Aylmer | 519-773-9723 www.artgalleryoflambeth.ca amtelecom.net/~aylmermuseum/ Thurs Nov 3 to Sun Nov 6 Sat Sept 17 to Fri Dec 23 WIND N WILLOW CHRISTMAS CHANGING GEARS: ELGIN OPEN HOUSE COUNTY INDUSTRY IN THE Thurs & Fri 9:30am-9pm, TH 20 CENTURY Sat 9:30am-5pm, Sun 12-4pm Elgin County Museum Wind n Willow | 519637-3904 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas 435 Talbot St, St. Thomas 519-631-1460 ext. 160 www.windnwillow.ca www.elgin-county.on.ca Fri Nov 4 Fri Sept 30 to Sat Dec 31 STEPAC FALL ART AUCTION EXHIBITION: WARDSVILLE 7-11pm | Tickets $10/person LEGACY PORTRAITS St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre The Arts & Cookery Bank 301 Talbot St. St. Thomas 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne 519-631-4040 | www.stepac.ca 519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com Fri Nov 4 WEDDING EXPO FALL EDITION Wednesdays in Oct & Nov 6-10pm | Tickets $5/person NINE WEDNESDAYS St.Thomas Golf & Country Club 6:30pm | Call to register 42325 Sparta Ln | 519-639-2336 The Arts and Cookery Bank www.upcomingweddingshows.ca 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne 519-768-9986 Fri Nov 4 to Sun Nov 6 www.theartsandcookerybank.com 26TH ANNUAL COBBLESTONES CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER Reception Fri 6-9pm Tues Nov 1 to Sun Nov 27 Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 10am-5pm, FOYER EXHIBIT: SKATES Sun 12-4pm Aylmer & District Museum Gift & Gallery of Shelley McVittie 14 East St, Aylmer | 519-773-9723 48664 John Wise Ln | 519-773-5912 amtelecom.net/~aylmermuseum www.shelleymcvittie.com
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Fri Nov 4 to Sun Nov 6 BERRY HILL'S 17TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Fri 6-9, Sat 9-5, Sun 12-5 Berry Hill Ltd. | 519-631-0480 75 Burwell Rd, St. Thomas www.berryhilllimited.com Fri Nov 4 to Sun Nov 20 THE HEALING PALETTE 6TH ANNUAL ART EXHIBITION Reception Fri Nov 4th, 7-9pm Guest Mary Intven Wallace St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital Atrium (free parking for event) 189 Elm Street, St. Thomas Contact: 519-631-8510 x49540 www.thehealingpalettehome.com Sat Nov 5 (Rain date Nov 6) THE GREAT PUMPKIN SMASH 1-4pm | Belmont Corn Maze 46614 Crossley Hunter Ln 519-644-1379 www.belmontcornmaze.net Sat Nov 5 COOKING WITH HERBS: ENTREES & DESSERTS 1:30pm | $25 (registration req'd) Heritage Line Herbs | 519-866-5577 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer www.heritagelineherbs.com Sat Nov 5 ART SHOW AT ST. THOMAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Featuring the work of seven local artists. 12-7pm | 42325 Sparta Ln, Union
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Events Sun Nov 6 SOUTHWOLD REMEMBRANCE DAY OBSERVANCE Guest Ted Barris | 9:30-11:30am Southwold Keystone Complex 35921 Talbot Line, Shedden Contact: Michele, 519-769-2010
Fri Nov 11 to Sun NOV 13 16TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN ST. THOMAS TOUR OF HOMES Sat & Sun 10-4 | 519-633-0838 $17 in advance, $20 at the door Candlelight Preview Fri, 5:30-9 ($30/person, for tickets call Wayne, 519-633-1565) Thurs Nov 10 www.rotarystthomas.org YUK YUK'S COMEDY SHOW Sat Nov 12 Buffet dinner and cash bar; Proceeds benefit the United Way JP CORMIER AT THE PORT STANLEY FESTIVAL THEATRE $40/person | Memorial Arena 8pm | $22 advance, $25 at door 80 Wilson Ave, St. Thomas 302 Bridge Street | 519-782-4353 Contact: 519-631-1680 x4145 www.portstanleytheatre.ca Thurs Nov 10 DUTTON REMEMBRANCE DAY Sat Nov 12 GARTH BROOKS & ALLAN SERVICE JACKSON TRIBUTES 7pm | Dutton Town Hall 8pm | Opening act Double "L" Photo by Mark Girdauskas 199 Currie Road, Dutton $15 advance, $20 at door Fri Nov 11 The Wharf | 519-782-7788 Sat Nov 5 ST. THOMAS REMEMBRANCE 208 Main Street, Port Stanley WAGNER'S SIEGFRIED AT THE DAY SERVICE www.portstanleywharf.com MET: LIVE IN HD 10:45am | Boy Soldier at 12pm | Galaxy Cinema St. Thomas Sat Nov 12 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital AYLMER PERFORMING ARTS: 519-631-2261 | www.cineplex.com 189 Elm St, St. Thomas THE SKIP PROKOP SHOW Fri Nov 11 7:30pm | $25/person Sat Nov 5 & Sun Nov 6 WEST LORNE REMEMBRANCE Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre PURPLE STEEPLE ANTIQUE DAY SERVICE 38 John St S | 519-765-3039 SHOW & SALE 11am | Cenotaph at Arena www.artsinaylmer.com Presented by Trinity Anglican 171 Graham Rd, West Lorne Church | Tickets $5/person Sat Nov 12 Appraisals Sun $5/item, limit 3 FEAST AT THE FORGE Fri Nov 11 Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm AYLMER REMEMBRANCE DAY 6:30pm | $45/person (donation) Canada Southern Railway Station CEREMONIES Ye Olde Forge and Anvil Museum 750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 10:30am | Cenotaph at Town Hall 46316 Sparta Line, Sparta Contact: Monique, 519-631-4335 46 Talbot Street West, Alymer Contact: 519-775-2292 Sun Nov 6 Sat Nov 12 Fri Nov 11 to Sun Nov 13 WORLD RUN DAY COOKING WITH HERBS: VICTORIAN ELEGANCE Run For Your Life | 519-637-0333 CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE APPETIZERS & DIPS 39 Burwell Rd, St. Thomas Fri & Sat 9:30-5pm, Sun 12-4pm 1:30pm | $20 (registration req'd) Victorian Elegance | 519-765-3634 Heritage Line Herbs | 53443 Sun Nov 6 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 109 Talbot St West, Aylmer PORT BURWELL ARMISTICE www.heritagelineherbs.com www.victorianelegance.ca DAY PARADE
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RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
Events Sat Nov 12 DUTTON SANTA CLAUS PARADE 1pm
Thurs Nov 17 to Sat Nov 19 FRI NOV 18 FAMILY FLOWERS' PARADE OF WINDOWS OF CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS A $25 donation helps decorate 9am-5:30pm | 519-631-6004 the CASO Station with a wreath. 44329 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas Canada Southern Railway Station Sat Nov 12 & Sun Nov 13 www.familyflowers.ca 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas PINECROFT ANNUAL PRE519-633-2535 | www.narhf.org CHRISTMAS POTTERY SALE Fri Nov 18 Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9am-4pm CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK IN Fri Nov 18 & Sat Nov 19 Pinecroft Pottery | 519-773-3435 DUTTON CONSTANCE BATH & BODY 7pm-9:30pm | Centennial Park 8048 Rogers Road S, Aylmer EVENT AT COBBLESTONES Contact: Kate, 519-762-3209 www.pinecroft.ca 11am-4:30pm www.duttondunwich.on.ca Gift & Gallery of Shelley McVittie Sat Nov 12 & Sun Nov 13 and 48664 John Wise Ln | 519-773-5912 Fri Nov 18 Sat Nov 26 & Sun Nov 27 www.shelleymcvittie.com CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT ST. THOMAS PERFORMING ARTS: ALEX PANGMAN CANADALE NURSERIES Fri Nov 18 to Sun Nov 20 Photos with Santa & his reindeer! 8pm | Central United Church 10TH ANNUAL AYLMER TOUR Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm 519-633-1178 for ticket availability OF HOMES Canadale Nurseries | 519-631-7264 135 Wellington Street, St. Thomas Presented by the Aylmer & 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas www.stthomasperformingarts.com District Museum Volunteers; www.canadale.com Fri & Sat 7-10pm, Sun 1-4pm Fri Nov 18 Old Fashioned Christmas Dinner ANNUAL ST. THOMAS TREE Sat Nov 12 to Sat Jan 7 Fri Nov 18th, 6pm ($12/person; LIGHTING CEREMONY EXHIBITION: WILLIAM ST. reserve by noon Nov 14) THOMAS SMITH, BY THE SEA 6-9pm | St. Thomas City Hall Tour $15/person | 519-773-9723 545 Talbot Street, St. Thomas St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art amtelecom.net/~aylmermuseum/ Contact: DDB, 519-633-5248 Centre, Timken Gallery 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at St. Thomas City Hall 519-631-4040 | www.stepac.ca Sat Nov 12 to Sat Jan 7 EXHIBITION: PATRICK LANDSLEY, RECENT WORK Reception Sat Nov 12th, 7-9pm St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre, Main Gallery 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 519-631-4040 | www.stepac.ca Thurs Nov 17 to Sun Nov 20 CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT VILLAGE CRIER GALLERY Thurs 7-9:30pm, Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1:30-4pm 194 Currie Rd, Dutton Contact: Jenny, 519-762-2862 www.villagecrierdutton.ca
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Events Fri Nov 18 to Sun Nov 20 T'WAS THE ART BEFORE CHRISTMAS Fri 7-10pm, Sat 11-5pm, Sun 12-5pm | www.steag.ca Canada Southern Railway Station 750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
Sat Nov 19 GLASS'S SATYAGRAHA AT THE MET: LIVE IN HD 1pm | Galaxy Cinema St. Thomas 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 519-631-2261 www.cineplex.com Sat Nov 19 Fri Nov 18 to Sat Nov 26 ND BACKUS-PAGE HOUSE HARVEST 2 ANNUAL HOME FOR CHRISTMAS IN WEST ELGIN & DINNER & SILENT AUCTION $30/person | 519-762-3072 DUTTON/DUNWICH Area residents will get passport in Lakeview Gardens 9353 Graham Road, Eagle the mail in early November 519-762-2965, 1-866-401-2965 www.backuspagehouse.ca Sat Nov 19 Sat Nov 19 rd EDISON MUSEUM ANNUAL 3 ANNUAL SPARTA FISH DINNER, DANCE & CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE SILENT AUCTION 9am-1pm | 519-775-2359 Vienna Community Centre Sparta Community Centre 26 Fulton Street, Vienna Sat Nov 19 Contact: Jean, 519-874-4505 ST. THOMAS OPTIMIST SANTA www.bayham.on.ca CLAUS PARADE 6pm | Featuring the Rick Hansen Sat Nov 19 HORTON FARMERS' MARKET 25th Anniversary Relay www.optimistsantaclausparade.com HOLIDAY MARKET A special market date for the Holiday Season Sat Nov 19 8am-2pm | 519-631-6050 CHRISTMAS CRAFTER'S SALE 9am-1pm | Forge & Anvil Museum Manitoba Street, just north of Talbot Street, St. Thomas 46316 Sparta Line, Sparta Contact: Sally Martyn, 775-2292 www.hortonfarmersmarket.ca T'Was the Art Before Christmas at the Canada Southern Railway Station
Sat Nov 19 & Sun Nov 20 HERITAGE LINE HERBS CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm Heritage Line Herbs | 519-866-5577 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer www.heritagelineherbs.com Sat Nov 19 & Sun Nov 20, Fri Nov 25 to Sun Nov 27 HOME FOR CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT EMPIRE VALLEY 10am-4pm | 519-762-3504 27983 Talbot Line, Wallacetown www.empirevalleyfarms.com Sun Nov 20 THE BOLSHOI BALLET SERIES: SLEEPING BEAUTY 1pm | Galaxy Cinema St. Thomas 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 519-631-2261 | www.cineplex.com WED Nov 23 to Sun Nov 27, Wed Nov 30 & Thurs Dec 1 7 DAYS OF CELEBRATION AT THE ARTS & COOKERY BANK 242 Graham Road, West Lorne 519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com Thurs Nov 24 STEPAC GIFT SHOP SPECIAL PREVIEW NIGHT 7-9pm St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 519-631-4040 | www.stepac.ca Fri Nov 25 PORT STANLEY DICKENS NIGHT PARADE 7-7:30pm Fri Nov 25 WEST LORNE SANTA CLAUS PARADE 7pm | www.westelgin.net
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Events Fri Nov 25 & Sat Nov 26 BEATTIE HAVEN CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR $10/person | Fri 6:30-9:30pm, Sat 10:30am-4:30pm Five locations in Rodney and Wardsville, plus Beattie Haven 23328 Beattie Line, Wardsville Contact: Jannette, 519-693-4901 www.beattiehaven.com
Sat Nov 26 & Sun Nov 27 SPARTA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Sat 11am-3pm, Sun 12-3pm Main Street, Sparta Contact: Mary, 519-775-0054 Sat Nov 26 & Sun Nov 27 AND Sat Dec 10 & Sun Dec 11 RUSH CREEK WINES' CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE 10am-5pm | 519-773-5432 48995 Jamestown Ln, Aylmer www.rushcreekwines.com
Thurs Dec 1 WENDELL'S CHRISTMAS GOOSE 7:30pm | $20 advance, $25 at door St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 519-631-4040 | www.stepac.ca www.sheppardentertainment.com
Thurs Dec 1 to Sun Dec 4 & Thurs Dec 8 to SUN Dec 11 ELGIN THEATRE GUILD: ANNE OF GREEN GABLES Fri Nov 25 & Sat Nov 26 Thurs-Sat at 8pm; Sun at 2pm DISPLAY & SALE OF CROSSPrincess Avenue Playhouse STITCH PATTERNS & KITS Nov 26 & 27, Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 40 Princess Avenue, St. Thomas 11am-4:30pm | Cobblestones 519-633-8530 Gift & Gallery of Shelley McVittie 18 & 24 www.elgintheatreguild.ca 48664 John Wise Ln | 519-773-5912 SANTA TREATS TRAIN RIDES Departs at 11am, 1pm & 2:30pm www.shelleymcvittie.com Fri Dec 2 to Sat Dec 31 Port Stanley Terminal Rail HOLIDAY FANTASY OF LIGHTS Sat Nov 26 309 Bridge St, Port Stanley 5-10pm nightly | Weekends: TREBLE MAKERS WOMEN'S 1-877-244-4478 | www.pstr.on.ca CHOIR PRESENTS BELIEVE entertainment 6:30-9pm, people The Treble Makers are celebrating Sun Nov 27 mover 7-9pm, refreshments A DREAM COME TRUE their 5th Anniversary! Pinafore Park, St. Thomas 7:30pm | $10 advance, $12 at door WEDDING SHOW Contact: Ross, 519-782-3942 11:30am-4pm | Tickets $5/person www.fantasylights.org Knox-St. Andrew's Presbyterian Best Western Stoneridge Inn Church | 162 Nancy St, Dutton Sat Dec 3 6675 Burtwistle Lane, London Contact: Jane, 519-768-1717 PORT BURWELL SANTA CLAUS 519-639-2336 PARADE & LIGHTHOUSE Sat Nov 26 www.upcomingweddingshows.ca LIGHTING NQ ARBUCKLE AT THE PORT 6:30pm | www.bayham.on.ca STANLEY FESTIVAL THEATRE Sun Nov 27 8pm | $22 advance, $25 at door AYLMER & DISTRICT MUSEUM Contact: Deb, 519-874-4450 302 Bridge Street | 519-782-4353 34TH ANNIVERSARY Sat Dec 3 www.portstanleytheatre.ca 1-3pm BACKUS-PAGE HOUSE 1850 s 14 East St, Aylmer | 519-773-9723 CHRISTMAS DINNER Sat Nov 26 amtelecom.net/~aylmermuseum/ $100/person | 519-762-3072 AYLMER SANTA CLAUS Backus-Page House Museum PARADE 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown DECEMBER 2pm www.backuspagehouse.ca Thurs Dec 1 Sat Nov 26 & Sun Nov 27 Sat Dec 3 FEST-A-MONTH: GERMANY STEED & CO LAVENDER CHRISTMAS SPIRIT WALK $130/person (limited space) CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE 6-8pm | 519-773-9037 6:30-10pm | 519-768-9986 Sat 10am-5pm, Sun noon-4pm Springwater Conservation Area The Arts & Cookery Bank 47589 Sparta Line, RR#5 Aylmer 8079 Springwater Rd, Aylmer 242 Graham Road, West Lorne (just E of Sparta) | 519-494-5525 www.catfishcreek.ca www.theartsandcookerybank.com www.steedandcompany.com
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Events Sat Dec 3 & Sat Dec 17 HERITAGE LINE HERBS CUSTOMER APPRECIATION Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm Heritage Line Herbs | 519-866-5577 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer www.heritagelineherbs.com Sundays in December DECEMBER SUNDAY BAKE SALES AT TELEGRAPH HOUSE 12-3pm | 519-782-3006 205 Main Street, Port Stanley www.telegraphhouse.com Sun Dec 4 ALZHEIMER SOCIETY'S Annual Christmas Carol Sing at BREAKFAST WITH SANTA The Old St. Thomas Church 9am-12pm | 519-633-4396 St. Thomas Seniors' Centre Sat Dec 3 HANDEL'S RODELINDA AT THE 225 Chestnut St, St. Thomas www.alzheimerelgin.ca MET: LIVE IN HD 12:30pm | Galaxy Cinema St. Thomas Sun Dec 4 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 43RD ANNUAL ELGINAIRES 519-631-2261 | www.cineplex.com CHRISTMAS CONCERT 2-4pm | Grace United Church Sat Dec 3 18 Balaclava St, St. Thomas RODNEY SANTA CLAUS Contact: Peter, 519-933-3986 PARADE www.elginairesbhs.com 5:30pm | 519-785-0560 2pm entertainment; 3pm Snake Sun Dec 4 Lady Show, wagon rides, Stay & CHRISTMAS CAROL SING AT Play; 4:30pm hot dogs/chocolate THE OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH from Rodney Lions Club & Fairles With emcee Steve Peters, the Salvation Army Band, mince tarts, www.westelgin.net church cookies and hot cider Sat Dec 3 3pm | 519-633-2610 SPRINGFIELD SANTA CLAUS 55 Walnut St, St. Thomas PARADE www.oldstthomaschurch.com 1pm Sun Dec 4 Sat Dec 3 & Sun Dec 4 FINGAL SANTA CLAUS PARADE PINECROFT CHRISTMAS 2pm POTTERY & GIFT SALE Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9am-4pm Sun Dec 4 Pinecroft Pottery | 519-773-3435 BELMONT SANTA CLAUS PARADE 8048 Rogers Road S, Aylmer 6pm www.pinecroft.ca
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Mon Dec 5 to Fri Dec 23 CHRISTMAS TURKEY LUNCHES AT PINECROFT Roast turkey & all the trimmings 11am-2pm | $19.95/person Pinecroft Pottery | 519-773-3435 8048 Rogers Road S, Aylmer www.pinecroft.ca Sat Dec 10 STRAFFORDVILLE SANTA CLAUS PARADE 10:30am | 519-866-5521 www.bayham.on.ca Sat Dec 10 AYLMER PERFORMING ARTS: FRED EAGLESMITH 7:30pm | $25/person Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre 38 John St S | 519-765-3039 www.artsinaylmer.com Sat Dec 10 CHRISTMAS DINNER AT PINECROFT Enjoy a delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings $28.95/person (reservations req'd) Pinecroft Pottery | 519-773-3435 8048 Rogers Road S, Aylmer www.pinecroft.ca Sat Dec 10 THE ESSENTIALS AT THE PORT STANLEY FESTIVAL THEATRE 8pm | $22 advance, $25 at door 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley 519-782-4353 www.portstanleytheatre.ca Sat Dec 10 GOUNOD'S FAUST AT THE MET: LIVE IN HD 1pm | Galaxy Cinema St. Thomas 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 519-631-2261 www.cineplex.com
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Events Sat Dec 10 'SOMETHING SPECIAL' GIFT & ART SALE 10am-5pm | $2/person at door The Wharf Restaurant 208 Main Street, Port Stanley www.sheppardentertainment.com Sat Dec 10 & Sun Dec 11th GAY LEA DAIRY HERITAGE MUSEUM OPEN HOUSE 10am-4pm | 1-888-773-2955 Admission with item for food bank 48075 Jamestown Ln, Aylmer www.dairyheritagemuseum.ca Fri Dec 16 QUARTETTE AT THE PRINCESS AVE PLAYHOUSE Tickets $30 | 519-633-8530 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas www.elgintheatreguild.ca
Sat Dec 17 THE SHERIDAN BAND AT THE PRINCESS AVE PLAYHOUSE Tickets $10 | 519-633-6118 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas www.elgintheatreguild.ca
Sat Dec 31 FAMILY NEW YEAR'S PARTY East Elgin Community Complex 531 Talbot Street West, Aylmer Contact: Theresa, 773-5631 x22 www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca
Sat Dec 18 WINTER SONGS 4 WITH MEGAN BARBER MCTAGGART 2-4pm | Tickets $10 | 519-637-2291 Princess Avenue Playouse 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas www.elgintheatreguild.ca
WE STRIVE FOR ACCURACY IN THESE LISTINGS, BUT DETAILS SOMETIMES CHANGE SO PLEASE CALL AHEAD OR CHECK ONLINE BEFORE YOU GO.
Sun Dec 18 THE BOLSHOI BALLET SERIES: THE NUTCRACKER 1pm | Galaxy Cinema St. Thomas 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 519-631-2261 | www.cineplex.com
MORE ONLINE More events, details and past event photos can be found at www.relishelgin.ca
Join us for our Annual
Christmas OPEN HOUSES OPEN HOUSES
November 12 & 13 and November 26 & 27 Saturday 8-5, Sunday 9-5
• Save the HST on your entire purchase • Visit the live reindeer • Family photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus • Kids Club activities all weekend • Free Sinamay & seasonal decorating demonstrations • On Sunday November 13th, see Sue Warden, Designer, TV Personality and Author, courtesy of Winward • Free Christmas urn decorating demonstrations • Charity lunch by STEGH Auxillary
269 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas • 519-631-7264 • www.canadale.com
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CURRENT EXHIBITION
Ford Talbotville, 1968 Courtesy, Elgin County Archives
Changing Gears: Elgin County Industry in the 20th Century September 17 – December 23 This exhibition illustrates the region’s transition from a reliance on several US railways to the opening of a number of American branch plants producing auto parts and vehicles, crowned by the arrival of the Ford plant in Talbotville in 1967.
Elgin County Administration Building, 4th Floor, 450 Sunset Drive (Hwy 4), St. Thomas, Ontario Tuesday to Saturday 10-4 • 519.631.1460 ext. 160
www.elgincounty.ca
Wintertime in the municipality of
West Elgin Santa Claus Parades
West Lorne - Friday Nov 25th at 7pm
Arena Activities: Visit Santa; free face painting & hot chocolate from WECHC; free public skating (Sponsored by the Optimist Club)
Rodney - Saturday Dec 3rd at 5:30pm Downtown Activities: Children’s entertainer at 2pm; Snake Lady show and wagon rides at 3:30pm; 5:30pm parade with Santa at Legion
WEST LORNE • RODNEY • PORT GLASGOW
www.westelgin.net 519-785-0560
PROOF
BRIDGEVIEW MOTORS
Please proofread carefully, ensuring all content (including phone numbers, addresses & websites) is correct.
Signature:
Print Name: Date: © Relish Elgin 2011 This ad has been designed for publication in Relish Elgin Magazine and may contain images with single-use licences. Therefore, this ad may not be distributed, copied, or republished without prior written permission from Relish Marketing & Promotions Inc.
Quality Used Cars & Trucks Sales, Service & Leasing BUY • SELL • TRADE • LEASE 1207 Talbot St, St. Thomas
519-633-0240
Find our featured cars and trucks online at www.bridgeviewstthomas.ca
Entertainment
ENTERTAINING ELGIN
Stephanie McIlroy BY ANITA LARUE
This has been an important year for Stephanie McIlroy—one in which her country rock vocals and formidable song writing talents have become recognized in Elgin County and worldwide. She has arrived at a place where her engaging stage presence, unique sound and heartfelt lyrical message have come together in a way that allows her talent to shine. The journey that has brought her here has been driven by her belief in the importance of hard work, never giving up and truly understanding her gift. Born in the small village of Merlin Ontario and now residing in St. Thomas, Stephanie learned early on that work ethic is at the heart of getting things accomplished. She sang for her local school Christmas choir in Merlin when she was five. At age 12 she performed her first church solo, Amazing Grace. “I loved listening to the radio and singing along. It felt like home. I knew this was what I was good at and what I craved.” When she was asked at the age of 17 to sing at her local high school for over 1500 people, she was nervous. “But when I
RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
walked onto the stage to sing, I knew in my heart this is where I was meant to be.” Stephanie’s priorities changed after having her three children, but singing and song writing never left her attention. “I would be cleaning the bathroom, driving, playing with my children and my mind would wander and start making up lyrics and melodies. Music never left me.” Stephanie’s first album, Life is Not an Act, released in 2009, was created with producer Brad Dugas
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Beamish Landscape Services PRESENTS THE 2011/2012
HAVE A WONDERFUL
HOLIDAY SEASON Thanks to all our great customers! Bookings always available for snow removal. Now is a great time to plan for spring!
WINTER MUSIC SERIES at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre
PSFT BOX OFFICE
519-782-4353 NOVEMBER 12 2011
JP CORMIER
$22 Advance/$25 Door
Book an appointment with our design team today.
519.633.9176
beamishlandscape@rogers.com
DECEMBER 10 2011
THE ESSENTIALS $22 Advance/$25 Door
Proud Member of Landscape Ontario FEBRUARY 3 2012
HARRY MANX
Joe Preston
$32 Advance/$35 Door
Elgin-Middlesex-London MP
MerryChristmas Wishing you & your family a safe & happy holiday season!
MARCH 17 2012
SUZIE VINNICK
$22 Advance/$25 Door APRIL 13 2012
MURRAY McLAUGHLAN $32 Advance/$35 Door
SPECIAL DINNER & THEATRE OFFER
Purchase advance tickets for the Winter Music Series and enjoy a 3-course meal at the Windjammer Inn at the special price of $25/person (plus tax and gratuity) on the day of the concert. (Purchase tickets then call 519-782-4173 to reserve)
www.portstanleytheatre.ca
Constituency Office 24 First Ave, Unit 2 St. Thomas, ON N5R 4M5 519-637-2255 / 1-866-404-0406 Fax: 519-637-3358
www.joeprestonmp.ca
Bill Fehr DAN SALHANI Broker
Certified General Accountant
519-633-5281
Entertainment from Kitchener. Stephanie’s compositions are a testament to what is important when creating lyrics—depth, truth and life experience are her inspiration. “They touch the heart of the listener because they come from real life,” says Stephanie. Songs such as, I Need a Break, Forgiven and Forever have been launched internationally in the Netherlands, England, Canada, Germany, United States and Austria. Stephanie identifies her true vocal style as Americana, defined as music not of one specific genre. Artists such as Bonnie Raitt and Johnny Cash also fit in this category. “I am not just country—I write edgy songs and love the blues. I have an eclectic taste.” Her distinctive sound has become noticed throughout Canada and the United States. Publicist Cameron Tilbury out of Nashville is enthusiastic about Stephanie’s talent. “I see wonderful things happening for her,” says Cameron. “She is truth, no fluff, not commercial sounding, and if anybody can make it, Stephanie can.” His strong belief in her artistic ability led to an invaluable opportunity to showcase her talents at the Canadian Country Music Week in Hamilton this past September. “This was a chance of a lifetime. I was surrounded by and met extraordinary performers like Michelle Wright, Patricia Conroy and Paul Brant. It was a dream come true.” With an intense desire to build her singing career, Stephanie leaves nothing to chance. She now works with Helix lead vocalist Brian Vollmer to ensure that her vocals are strong and polished. A Canadian band from Kitchener, Helix was formed in 1974, is known for their hard rock/heavy metal tracks and has toured with Kiss, Aerosmith, Rush and Alice Cooper. Stephanie is now focused on writing for her next album, which she will start working on with award winning songwriter/producer JK Gulley in midNovember. JK has worked with some of the most well known names in country music. Her calendar
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is also packed with a line-up of events that would make most of us breathless, but to Stephanie each is another prospect to share her love, truths, and inspirations through music. Her heart is very much tied to her own community and she believes in giving back, noting, “A gift is meant to be given.” Stephanie has explored and refined her musical gifts through hard work and determination. The journey she has chosen is not without sacrifices, but it is one fuelled by her vibrant faith, spirit and love of music. “This has been the best year of my life,” she explains. “Because I understand myself and that my music is now reaching an audience, I have become strong in who I am. I have found my gift—this makes it all worth it.”
Stephanie will be performing at the opening ceremonies of the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights on November 5th. Locally, she can be seen at Coffee Cultures December 1st, Dutton’s Christmas in the Park event November 18th and at the St. Thomas Fantasy of Lights December 20th. Contact Jennifer Mott at 519-639-4744 for bookings. You can find out more about Stephanie at www.ourstage.com/profile/ stephaniemcilroy; www.stephaniemcilroy.ca and www.facebook.com/stephanie. mcilroy. Photographs courtesy of Lynn Sinden, Aylmer, Ontario. Anita LaRue has written from a very young age, has been a member of a local creative writing group and was published in Carnegie 15, a collection of diverse writing. She has partnered with Write Advantage (www.writeadvantage.ca) to write about entertainment, arts and music, topics close to her heart.
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Map of Elgin
A Frenzy of Flavour!
NOVEMBER & DECEMBER PRODUCE Apples • Asian Vegetables • Beets • Brussels Sprouts Cabbage • Carrots • Cauliflower Cooking Onions • Crabapples Cucumbers (greenhouse) Garlic • Green Onions • Leeks Lettuce (greenhouse) Mushrooms
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SEASONS GREETINGS FROM
Stay Connected to the Farm! 42828 SHORLEA LN, ST. THOMAS Organic Meat Shop with Pastured Pork & Beef Fresh Organic Brown Eggs Storage Potatoes Fresh Organic Chicken available on Chicken Days (see website for details and prices)
519-631-0279 mcsmith@amtelecom.net
www.McSmithsOrganicFarm.com NEW ONLINE ORDERING
RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
ENGAGEMENTS WEDDINGS FAMILY CORPORATE MUSIC / VIDEO
519.641.9034 contact@photosbymg.com
www.photosbymg.com
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Briwood
Your Neighbourhood Farm Market IN-STORE BAKERY FRESH PRODUCE GROCERY FRESH MEAT DAIRY BULK FOODS PET FOODS GARDEN CENTRE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THE
HOLIDAY SEASON ALL IN ONE PLACE
CHRISTMAS TREES & POINSETTIAS
519-633-9691
GARLANDS, ROPE & WREATHS
OPEN YEAR ROUND
Mon-Fri: 8am-8pm • Sat & Sun: 8am-6pm 1030 Talbot St . St. Thomas We proudly support local farmers.
Arts
Arts Discovery LEADING THE WAY
Twelve Elgin County arts hot spots make up the Elgin Arts Trail, which was launched this past September. Ceramics, paintings, fibre arts, sculpture, photography, candles and other works of visual art along the trail present an adventure of colour, form and texture to explore and appreciate (not to mention, limitless one-of-a-kind Christmas gift-giving possibilities). Five of the participating artists love to create and also to share their secrets through classes and workshops. Why not make some time this winter to shape some clay with authority, wield a brush with verve, snap a photo from a new angle or knit something warm, woolly and beautiful. Each of the artists mentioned below has a wealth of teaching experience to share.
CLAYWORKS STUDIO Catherine Craig got a paper route when she was twelve so she could take pottery classes. She went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and has worked for 40 years as a professional artist in pottery, sculpture, drawing, painting, weaving and spinning. She offers flexible class size and formats for both children and adults from her rustic Belmont studio. Recently, it has been abuzz with mom and kid students making clay trinket boxes, pinch pot creatures and vessels in which to grow parsley seeds. Catherine treasures the chance to trade art philosophies and techniques, possible in small and individual classes. Her favourite teaching moments come when a student suddenly gets a technique and begins to realize all the possibilities that holds for further creativity.
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128 Dyer Street, Belmont / 519-644-0893 catherineacraig@hotmail.com http://catherinecraigart.blogspot.com
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Arts
ST. THOMAS ELGIN PUBLIC ARTS CENTRE This lively gallery reflects the energy of the arts community in Elgin County. Much of its efforts are centred on education and on encouraging creativity in everyone. Children’s classes are designed to encourage imagination, selfconfidence and individual style—upcoming winter classes starting in January include Elementary Expressions, Let’s Create for JK & SK, Painting and Drawing for Grades 5-8 with a focus on wildlife painting, and Photography for highschool aged students. For adults, an illustration class, Becoming a Visual Author, runs November 12th to December 3rd. Check the website for more classes in 2012. The gallery has plans for some new and different workshops and is hoping to include song writing, parent/grandparent classes on taking great kid portraits, and more Zentangle. 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas / 519-631-4040 info@stepac.ca / www.stepac.ca
THE ARTS & COOKERY BANK The art of photography is one half of the outrageous combination of arts & cookery that is at the heart of the Arts & Cookery Bank’s activities. Both enable community and visitors alike to celebrate the rural legacy from the past and create rich experiences today. Your creative juices will start to flow as soon as you enter the Bank, with its surprising but exquisite barnmeets-bank architecture, multi-touch media kiosks, floating photo displays, digital photo lab and interactive classroom. Ramp up your ability to turn your inspiration into memorable photos with classes available for all ages. Registration information and schedules are available online, and new classes are added regularly. 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne / 519-768-9986 info@theartsandcookerybank.com www.theartsandcookerybank.com
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Arts
LITTLE RED MITTEN
PINECROFT CERAMICS ART STUDIO Pinecroft is a captivating place to visit. A stroll through the shelves of well-designed, beautifully glazed pottery in the Gallery & Gift Shop may well start you contemplating the idea of taking pottery lessons. In the early 50s Pinecroft founders Jimmie Clennell and Selma Caverly made instruction an important part of their studio activities and many students took classes offered there on and off over the years. As 2nd generation potter Brenda and husband Paul Smith’s children have taken on some of the management of the tearoom, gift shop and B&B, Brenda has seized the opportunity to get back to teaching. Her students appreciate the chance to learn throwing, glazing techniques and firing from this master artisan. Her level of skill, willingness to share all she knows and teaching ability make for a rare learning experience. Foursession classes are offered Monday mornings, Tuesday evenings and Wednesday evenings in November. Call Pinecroft for details and info about other upcoming classes. 8122 Rogers Road South, Aylmer West 519-773-3435 / pinecroft@amtelecom.net www.pinecroft.ca
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Located in a restored 1842 house across from Jumbo, Little Red Mitten is vibrant with the amazing colours of a huge stock of wools, and invitingly furnished with comfy chairs and space for classes. The shop came about as the result of owner Joan Janes’ lifelong love of fibre arts and her desire to provide a place where knitters would feel comfortable, find expert help and have lots of choices in supplies and classes. Friday and Wednesday knitting group members who gather from far and wide enthuse about Joan, the shop and the supportive atmosphere. On the website you will find an intriguing line-up of classes to suit every level and interest. 86 Talbot Street, St. Thomas / 519-207-2880 info@littleredmitten.ca / www.littleredmitten.ca
The Elgin Arts Trail is an initiative of The County of Elgin in partnership with the Elgin Business Resource Centre and St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre. Visit www.elginartstrail.ca to find out more about the trail and all twelve members, and pick up your Elgin Arts Trail Discovery Guide at Elgin-St. Thomas Tourism kiosks and member locations. Photos courtesy of The Elgin Arts Trail.
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Windjammer The
INN
Your Local Stop for Turkey & Store-Made Turkey Specialties
PORT STANLEY
Recommended in Where to Eat in Canada
TURKEY FARMS INC.
A Heritage B&B & Bistro
Open Year Round for Lunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch Live Acoustic Music on Sundays FEATURING LOCAL BOUNTY & REGIONAL SPECIALTIES
STORE-MADE TURKEY SPECIALTIES:
EXTRA LEAN WHITE & DARK GROUND TURKEY, SCHNITZEL, SAUSAGE, MEATLOAF, MEAT PIES, SOUP, BROILS, MARINATED KABOBS & MORE Visit us on the farm or at the Brantford Farmers’ Market
Order your fresh Christmas turkey or roast by December 16th to ensure availability. 10882 Sunset Rd, Talbotville • 519-633-0527 Open Mon to Fri 9am-5:30pm & Sat 9am-4pm
www.turkeyshoppe.com PROOF
Please proofread carefully, ensuring all content (including phone numbers, addresses & websites) is correct.
Signature:
SANTAparades CLAUS
Print Name: Date:
½ PRICE WINTER GETAWAYS November 1, 2011 to April 30, 2012 (Dinner packages available)
HERITAGE HOUSE ACCOMMODATIONS & LUXURY JACUZZI SUITES
PSFT WINTER MUSIC SERIES SHOW & DINNER SPECIAL Purchase advance tickets for any Winter Music Series show at the Port Stanley Festival Threatre and enjoy a 3-course meal for $25
Gift Certificates Available
324 Smith St, Port Stanley • 519-782-4173 OVER THE BRIDGE, BEFORE THE BEACH
www.thewindjammerinn.com
© Relish Elgin 2011 This ad has been designed for publication in Relish Elgin Magazine and may contain images with single-use licences. Therefore, this ad IN ELGIN COUNTY may not be distributed, copied, or republished without prior written permission from Relish Marketing & Promotions Inc.
Dutton - Sat Nov 12th, 1pm St. Thomas - Sat Nov 19th, 6pm West Lorne - Fri Nov 25th, 7pm Port Stanley - Fri Nov 25th, 7pm Aylmer - Sat Nov 26th, 2pm Springfield - Sat Dec 3rd, 1pm Rodney - Sat Dec 3rd, 5:30pm Port Burwell - Sat Dec 3rd, 6:30pm Fingal - Sun Dec 4th, 2pm Belmont - Sun Dec 4th, 6pm Straffordville - Sat Dec 10th, 10:30am
To find out what's going on in Elgin, or to add your own event, visit
www.elgintourist.com • 1-877-GoElgin
Food & Dining
The Turkey Shoppe A CONTEMPORARY MODEL FOR
FIELD TO TABLE FARMING
BY CHEF CHRISTIE MASSÉ
A characteristic that is frequently mentioned and admired by those who travel through Elgin County is the abundance of farm gate markets and shops that grace its winding roadsides. The Turkey Shoppe at Oegema’s Turkey Farm in Talbotville is a shining example of such. With its noticeable signage and accessible store hours, the Oegema family is taking the worky out of turkey! It is no secret that turkey has been typecast as a holiday bird and tends to get the shaft in our regular diet, with the exception of the occasional turkey sandwich from your favourite sandwich shop. For anyone looking to introduce more turkey into their diet, be it for the sake of health benefits, price, or general deliciousness, The Turkey Shoppe makes it almost effortless to purchase their fine products, processed and packaged in their regulated facility right on the farm. An operation of intelligent design, The Turkey Shoppe is making their field to table availability as efficient as possible. In these times of technology, the Oegemas have fused convenience and local shopping by offering online ordering accompanied by product lists and pricing on their website. They really couldn’t make it easier.
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Like a well oiled machine, this third generation farm established in 1958 raises 55 000 turkeys per year. With 25% of their electricity provided by their refurbished wind generator, introduced to the farm in 2006, you might say the Oegema’s turkeys are a shade green. As a registered member of both Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC) and Turkey Farmers of Ontario (TFO), the shop’s website has posted links to both organizations’ respective sites. TFC’s site provides recipes, nutrition facts, preparation and serving tips, as well as wine and beer pairings. The TFO site offers readers a glance into the style of operation practised by its members. As a producer-run and producer-funded organization 45 years in the making, it represents 190 turkey farmers across
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Food & Dining contributing Canadian industry. Not to mention, they allow Canadian farmers to provide consumers with delicious turkey that is raised with love and attention right here on good old Canadian soil. The shop, open year-round, was established in 1992 and has been growing ever since. The savorysmelling storefront offers various products, both fresh and frozen, including assorted parts, ground turkey, roasts, schnitzel, sausages, burgers, turkey pies, bacon, and pepperettes, among many others. A complementary recipe book to accompany your purchase is also offered at the shop, as well as other local products including a selection of Heritage Line Herbs’ dried herbs and Quai du Vin’s sparkling juices.
Top: Annie Oegema (second from left) with Turkey Shop employees Jennifer VanMeekeren, Lori Kiss & Rosanna Groeneweg. Bottom: The Turkey Shoppe has lots of space for fresh and frozen turkey specialties. Photos by Mark Girdauskas Ontario. The organization’s mission is to “ensure humane treatment and care of turkeys while providing safe, high quality food to consumers.” It is important not only to know where your food comes from, but also the road on which an industry has travelled to land where it has today. During the post World War II shift in agriculture, following the introduction of vac-packers and other food preserving technologies, Canada nearly lost its turkey industry to the U.S. This threat was eventually reversed by the establishment of organizations like TFC and TFO, developed in order to set regulations on the business and its imports. It is essential to recognize and support such groups, as they have brought stability to a
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With the intention of writing a recipe that veers away from traditional holiday-style turkey, as I peruse the coolers I do a double-take at the marinated Orange Ginger Turkey Breast Fillets. Though both orange and ginger flavours tend to make an appearance during the holidays—an orange as the unfortunate stocking stuffer (boo) and the fun-to-build-then-demolish gingerbread house (yum!)—the first place my mind goes is Curried Turkey. Though this is an ethnically driven recipe, incorporating seasonal local ingredients is still encouraged. For example, if you have homemade dehydrated currants, bought or picked fresh in season, they will serve well as a condiment for this dish, along with chopped roasted almonds, toasted shredded coconut, and sliced green onion. This curry is best enjoyed atop steamed long grain white or brown rice. Warning! Curry is highly addictive, healthy, and easy to make. Be prepared for a weekly appearance on your dinner table.
The Turkey Shoppe is located at 10882 Sunset Rd, Talbotville. Find out more by calling 519-633-0527 or visiting www.turkeyshoppe.com.
RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
Food & Dining
TURKEY CURRY IN A HURRY Yields 2 hefty portions. 2 Tbsp ½ ½ 2 stalks 1 pkg 1 Tbsp 2 cloves 1 2 Tbsp 1 ½ tsp 1 Tbsp 3/4 cup 1 1 1 can ¼ cup
olive oil red onion, diced sweet potato, diced celery, diced The Turkey Shoppe’s Orange Ginger Turkey Breast Fillets (approximately 400g), sliced or chopped (*sub with cooked leftover turkey, but add at the end just to heat through) fresh ginger, minced or rasped garlic, minced or rasped Granny Smith apple, diced curry powder ground cumin tomato paste homemade turkey or chicken stock orange, zested and juiced lime, zested and juiced coconut milk fresh cilantro, rinsed, spun and chopped salt & pepper to taste
1. In large saucepot, heat olive oil over mid-high heat. Once oil is rippling, add onion, sweet potato, and celery. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. 2. Add raw turkey. Cook until turkey is white on the surface. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Stir in ginger, garlic, and apple. Cook for 3 minutes. Stir in spices (allowing spices to sauté a bit releases their aromatics and flavours). Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minutes. Reduce heat if necessary. 4. Deglaze the pan with stock, citrus juice and zest, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and stew for 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat, or until slightly reduced. (*Do not overcook curry; when curry powder is overcooked it becomes bitter and unpalatable.) 5. Adjust seasonings to taste with salt & pepper. (*Add a pinch of chili flakes to heat things up!) 6. Finish with chopped cilantro and serve over steamed rice. 7. Top with condiments and enjoy! Wine Pairing: As per winemaker Mr. Jamie Quai’s recommendation, we are given two very educated options friendly for both red and white wine lovers. For those with a taste for rouge, Quai du Vin’s Signature 2010 Red will react commendably, as the earthy spices will draw the earthy flavours in the Baco/Foch/Cabernet blend to the foreground. For the palate with a preference for white, if you’ve got a vintage Riesling in your cellar that you’ve been itching to uncork, this is always a favourable choice for curries, particularly for this dish with its apple and citrus elements. To make it interesting, do what we do in our household and buy both. Christie Massé is a graduate of Stratford Chefs School. She and fiancé Will Gaynor own Crust Catering & Bakery. Their artisanal breads are sold at Farmgate Markets (19 Elgin Street, St. Thomas). For more info about their custom cakes and catering, go to www.crustcatering.ca or call 519-494-1061.
RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
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Share Something Local With Your Friends! Discover the Farmgate Difference!
Our meats are all grown in Ontario, with no antibiotics or hormones, and processed in St. Thomas. Try our store-made deli meats—they’re lean, lower in salt and free of gluten, phosphates & chemical nitrates.
Open Mon to Sat 9am-6pm • 519-637-0055 19 Elgin Street, St. Thomas Don’t forget to order your store-made ham or fresh turkey for the Holidays!
www.farmgatemarket.com Farmgate Markets Deli & Fresh Meats
FarmgateMarket
Fresh, all natural beers, craft brewed in small batches using only the finest natural ingredients.
168 Curtis St., St. Thomas
519-631-1881
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK TOURS AVAILABLE ALSO AVAILABLE AT AREA LCBOs
www.railwaycitybrewing.com Visit the brewery to discover our latest
SEASONAL BREW
GIVE THE GIFT OF GOOD TASTE Ask about our Gift Cards
CATERING BY JAMES MEADOWS 226.448.8466 cateringbyjamesmeadows.com
Food & Dining
BUSINESS PROFILE: THE TURKEY SHOPPE a limb to diversify and create an income for the third generation.” In 1996 it was expanded to allow for on-site production of Oegema’s own delicious items. Gradually, Annie took over the store and Mike’s focus shifted back to the farm.
Farm to shop to table, Annie Oegema may well be one of the people most qualified to talk turkey that you will find anywhere. She has an in-depth knowledge of the turkey operation behind her home, a flare with turkey recipes, and stellar management skills which have made the Turkey Shoppe very popular and its products favourites at many local tables. She chatted one morning, on one of the few days between the post-Thanksgiving sigh of relief and the gear-up for the even-busier Christmas season. Annie mentions that she grew up in a family greenhouse business in the Niagara Peninsula, the youngest of six children. She was good at French in high school, thought it would be a good avenue for further education and went off to university where she earned a degree and also met husband-to-be, Mike Oegema. Following university, she married, worked in London and then became busy raising a family in St. Thomas. The Turkey Shoppe was opened in 1992 with Mike in charge. After a few years, Annie took the opportunity to work there one day a week and became part of the farm’s three-generation tradition of innovation. Mike’s grandparents, Sikko Oegema and wife Altije had come from Holland and started the turkey farm in 1959, choosing a type of farming which was less mainstream at the time. On-farm retail was also not commonplace when the family started their outlet for turkey products in 1992. Annie notes, “They went out on
RELISH ELGIN HOLIDAY 2011
One can’t help but wonder how someone with Annie’s background became such an important part of the Turkey Shoppe’s success. She says, “I really should have taken business courses after high school. I love business and organization, and I have found that is where my talents lie.” She is obviously a very busy woman and admits “sometimes I would like it to be a little less busy”. However, in spite of the hectic pace she has a ready smile and seems genuinely happy in her role. Her positive, upbeat attitude stems, she says, from having discovered her gifts and the chance to use them in work she truly enjoys. Oegema’s line-up of signature products make a regular appearance on the menu in many local homes. How does Annie come up with them? She notes, “I am not a super fantastic cook, but I have learned what works with turkey meat, and what flavours work together”. Her culinary flare, experience, and the attention to detail of she and her staff all come together to create the tasty Turkey Shoppe experience.
Tidbits - Turkey-Related & Not Best business innovation? A computerized distribution program for the holidays, created by my cousin Newest product? Turkey Vegetable Soup Favourite Vacation Spot? All of them (I love camping in Bon Echo Provincial Park) Favourite Elgin Spot? The Elgin Hiking Trail Hobbies? Reading, strength-training, walking, hiking Favourite Colour? Blue Favourite Food? Canteloupe
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DISCOVER • INDULGE • ESCAPE
LAVENDER BLUE IS NOW
Our gift boutique offers unique handcrafted gifts & gourmet foods created from our harvested lavender. Open Wed-Sat 10-5 & Sun 12-4 • Mother’s Day until Christmas growers & creators of fine lavender products
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 26 & 27
47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta • 519-494-5525 • buds@steedandcompany.com • www.steedandcompany.com
Please join us for our Annual
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Sat Nov 19th, 10am-4pm & Sun Nov 20th, 11am-4pm
HERITAGE LINE HERBS CERTIFIED ORGANIC DRIED HERBS & HERB BLENDS, POTTED HERBS & HEIRLOOM VEGETABLES Visit our website for a complete list of events, recipes & more.
www.heritagelineherbs.com
53443 Heritage Line, RR#1 Aylmer • 519-866-5577 Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10-5 & Saturday 10-4
QUAI
DU
VIN
Product Samplings • Vendors • Sales Gift Baskets & Gift Certificates Available
OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS Cooking with Herbs: Appetizers & Dips Sat Nov 12th (preregistration required) Customer Appreciation Days - Sat Dec 3rd & 17th Christmas Sale - Wed Dec 7th to Fri Dec 23rd Boxing Week Sale - Thurs Dec 27th to Sat Dec 31st
Experience the Fine Art of
E S T A T E . W I N E R Y
Visit the chapters of our
ONLINE GIFT BOOK,
full of one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
“Dressed in Holiday Style”
www.QuaiduVin.com 45811 Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas 519-775-2216 Follow the action behind the scenes on Twitter: @QuaiDuVin
ARTIST GALLERY & GIFT SHOPPE Paintings, pottery, teddies, handwoven throws, vintage games, lotions, potions & more!
48664 John Wise Ln, Aylmer | 519-773-5912 Tues-Sat 11-4:30 & Sun by appt.
www.shelleymcvittie.com
Home & Garden
Marvellous METAL CREATIONS Jason Berencsi’s metal art pieces have attracted customers from as far away as Florida, California, Vancouver, Edmonton, the Yukon, China and Africa. His designs add a modern, clean look to home, garden or business décor, but can also incorporate anything from ancient symbols to personally important representations of pets or nature. His creations have a pleasingly substantial, well-made look and feel. Jason and Nadine Furbacher are co-founders of JBweldz Creative Metal Art. Their business partnership arose from the duo’s determination to forge a successful business based upon their creative and marketing talents (and perhaps a knack for seizing fate’s positive possibilities). Jason grew up in Welland. His father has long been an accomplished artist of “amazing metal sculpture”. As a teenager, Jason learned everything he could about metal from his father, then branched off into his own specialty, artwork cut from sheets of metal. In 1993 he moved to St. Thomas to work at Freightliner (later Sterling). His mind was often bursting with ideas for metal designs, but time for that was limited. He toyed with the idea of leaving Sterling but notes, “You just can’t leave a job where you are making that kind of money.” When Sterling closed, Jason rebounded from the initial shock then set up business and went into metal art creation full time. He hasn’t looked back. His factory job had enabled him to buy his own home, but would he look for a similar job to regain that financial stability? The answer is an emphatic no. With a smile, Jason notes that satisfaction with his present career compensates for his more modest income. Nadine is just as positive about the career
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path they now share, and which she complements with part-time retail work. Jason also gave fate a little push in his favour (a persistent one it seems) with his personal life. He and Nadine had dated back in high school. They both smile about having had eyes for each other as teenagers when they worked in the food court at the Welland Mall. They dated, but Nadine reconnected with a previous boyfriend, Jason moved to St. Thomas and that was the end of that—until they discovered each other years later via Facebook. Jason just kept asking till Nadine agreed to go out with him. Their long-distance romance continued for a while, until Nadine made the move to St. Thomas two years ago. As they chat about living and working in St. Thomas, Jason and Nadine give the impression of having the easy-going relationship of two people who are “made for each other”. It just so happened that Nadine had a background in marketing, so it’s a business partnership that also seems to be a happy fit. They market their work via website, Facebook, Twitter and recently, CustomMade.com. Photos of new pieces are posted, sometimes minutes after completion, and are often spoken for within hours.
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Home & Garden
Nadine handles most of the correspondence and marketing for the business. They take custom orders, but have also done very well coming up with ideas and designing items they think will sell well. Hot sellers include the Circle of Life and Bonsai trees, moose, owls, Canada Geese, farm and motorcycle related designs, pets and welcome signs. Jason and Nadine enjoyed being part of the St. Thomas Horton Farmers’ Market this past season. They buy all of their own supplies locally, including quality recycled steel. As supporters of ‘local’ both in their business and personal lives, they liked the market atmosphere, developing relationships with their fellow-vendors and finding an appreciation for their work by market customers. Jason has completed a number of pieces for retail businesses looking for artistic, distinctive signage. These include the Talbotville Berry Farm, Spice Spa (St. Thomas), Rubyeyes Kraftwerks (Port Stanley), Janis & Mark Harris and Family Farm (St. Thomas) and Shastadolphin (St. Thomas). Jason had looked longingly at a CNC plasma cutter for years and finally felt it was time to take the plunge, purchasing one this past spring. He can now input his designs into the computer for automated cutting. Nadine notes that it is safer, less physically demanding, faster and more costeffective. The investment has enabled them to take
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the business to a new level and will help to ensure long-term success for JBweldz. What does the future hold? Rubyeyes Kraftwerks carries some of JBweldz pieces, and Jason and Nadine are hoping to expand their retail exposure in the next year. One Horton Market customer, who also specializes in metal finishing has recently partnered with them to incorporate powder coating options for all of their artwork. This opens many doors for customers interested in vibrant colour and texture finishes. They have also sold some stunning large pieces. The metal medium is a perfect one in which to create a big impression. Jason’s eyes light up at the prospect of designing and creating more of those large-scale works.
JBweldz Creative Metal Art can be found at Rubyeyes Kraftwerks, 235 Colborne St, Port Stanley (presently open 1-4pm, Thur-Sat). They also sell direct through their website (www. JBweldz.com) and their shop on Etsy’s virtual artisan market (www.etsy. com/shop/jbweldz ). You can follow them on facebook (www.facebook. com/JBweldz.metalart) or contact them at their home studio (519-2073770 or info.JBweldz@gmail.com).
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