The Grapevine

ARTS | CULTURE | COMMUNITY April 2022 | Issue No. 19.04

Light it up blue for Autism Awareness, April 2 (see p.14) LUNCH AT THE ESSENTIALLY ENGLISH BAKERY AND CAFÉ, P.11

WOLFVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET REOPENING TRANSITION, P.3

FEATUREPRENEUR: SCRUBBED GREEN CLEANING, P.6

WHO’S WHO: THE AL WHITTLE THEATRE’S MARY HARWELL, P.7

MIKE UNCORKED: NO MOW MAY, P.4

VISUALLY SPEAKING: CAROLYN LANDRY, P.9

A FREE PAPER FOR THE PEOPLE WHO FIND THEMSELVES IN THE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY

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Fri. April 22

RAINE HAMILTON TRIO Stunning vocals + strings

ASL Interpreted

Eagles Tribute

Sat. April 2

Sat. April 9

‘SOMEBODY LOVES YOU, MR. HATCH’

Sat. April 30

A puppet play for all ages

Hilarious sketch comedy with Geri Hall & Gary Pearson

Sun. May 1

Fri. April 29

MEAGAN&AMY DUO

thrilling piano & violin duo from Montreal JUNO winner

Thurs.

May 12

Thurs. May 19

pop+jazz voice+piano +charisma

Thurs. June 2

BEN CAPLAN & TERRA SPENCER

Sat. May 28 Fri. June 17

THE ALAN JACKSON EXPERIENCE

Sat. June 18

JIMMY RANKIN KITCHEN PARTY

ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, NS 2 | April 2022

Sat. June 25

2022

REOPENING TRANSITION PLAN FOR THE WOLFVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET COOPERATIVE Kelly Marie Redcliffe Dear Community, Please appreciate that this is a longer message but one I hope you can take time for.

I will start by saying thank you! I believe that our community has shown sincere respect for the restrictions at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market. I know many of you have found different ways to interact with us over the last couple of years, be it in person as we safely navigate COVID Restrictions or through our online store which redoubled its efforts to accommodate the community, or perhaps even our 6-days a week Farm & Art Market Store.

I thank you for your commitment to local, which of course is not abstract. It represents your commitment to a healthy community, to our vendors as environmental stewards of the land, to local food infrastructure and its capacity to feed us, to building a resilient community, and to your own health. Ultimately it represents the value you place in people and all that lives.

When asked what has made us able to rise to the challenge of COVID or help us to be so resilient over these last two years, my answer is the authentic relationships we have with so many people, built over time. We will, after all, be celebrating our thirtieth anniversary starting in May. But there can be no doubt that over a two year period these relationships have been impacted. Our inability to see one another as much as we are used to, topped with a winter that brought Saturday storms, and the fractious world we are witness to, has made us collectively draw deeper inwards.

And yet on this first Saturday of spring, I am looking forward to the way this season slowly and almost beneath our knowing, unfathomably unfurls. As a Farmers’ Market rooted in this connection to the seasons, and as a Cooperative, rooted in our connection to people, we embrace transitions and the ongoing legacy they create over time.

The lifting of the COVID restrictions represents yet another transition that the Wolfville Farmers’ Market and our community will navigate. Transitions take carefulness yet forcefulness, planning yet playfulness, respect for people with different needs, and no matter what, they happen over time, not just one step at a time, but all of our steps, over time.

I hope you will see this balanced approach in our intentions and actions.

As you develop new routines, we ask that you remember the impact your commitment has on the people who grow your food and nurture your health. Our resilience as a community depends on the solidity of these relationships through all the times: good times, hard times, and transition times. As we consider the reopening plan that the province has set before us, where mandates are removed and citizens and businesses continue to navigate, we have made the following decisions.

Public Market We are going to launch an add-on Masked Market from 8:30am-9am on Saturdays in advance of the regular Saturday Market from 9am-1pm. This Masked Market is being

introduced to serve those who are more comfortable in a masked environment. Through this we will be able to offer an extra safe place to access and support local. All customers and all vendors serving customers will be wearing masks at this time. There may be some vendors not participating in the masked market who are just setting up for the regular Market who are not wearing masks during this time, but they will likely be few and far between as 90% of our vendors will be participating in the Masked Market.

As the regular Saturday Market unfolds (9am-1pm) masks will be welcome at all times and in concert with Public Health, they are recommended.

We are also excited to embrace some fun and openness and will be making some small changes indoors. We will be reducing the size of the store to accommodate more vendors and provide some benches to perch on and have a bite to eat. Vendors are so very excited to again be able to offer samples to show you what local deliciousness they have to offer. We are delighted to start bringing back live music in the Community Room. We haven’t room for a seating area per se, but there will be some seating for people to perch on as we ease into spring. The picnic tables will be set up outside too!

And finally, as a gesture of thanks, we will be creating an Outdoor Photo Booth at the Market where you can finally share your smiles with those you cherish.

WFM2Go We will continue to host WFM2Go (wfm2go. ca) Wednesdays and Saturdays and offer home delivery on Thursdays. Each day we see more greens added to the site and with over 50 local vendors the diversity of products is just amazing. This service offers twelve pick-up hubs throughout the Valley and HRM, including one at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market. Our home delivery service is perfect for those who cannot easily get out. We have found that many who used to be regulars who developed meaningful relationships with our vendors, but for whatever reason can no longer attend, especially love this well-supported service.

Staff are so happy to walk these customers through the process.

Farm & Art Market Store We will be developing the store in a way that is more compact to make way for an enhanced Saturday Market. We remind you that the store is open 6 days per week and is our gentle, safe, and steady offering for those who like the convenience of easy access, close parking, and fewer folks. In this vein, the plexiglass will stay up and staff will continue to serve customers while wearing a mask. The hours for the Store are: Tuesday to Friday: 10am-5pm Saturday 8:30am-4pm Sunday noon-4pm.

THINKING OF GOING BACK TO SCHOOL? N o va S coti a Wor ks ca n he l p!

Thanks everyone, let’s keep on stepping on!

Sincerely, Kelly Marie

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BURGER WARS 2022 Submitted

For the month of April 2022 we are inviting restaurants in the Valley to participate in a burger frenzy to find out who has the best burger in town!

Burger lovers will visit as many of the featured restaurants as possible and vote for their favourite burger!

For every featured burger sold at one of our participating restaurants, $1 will be donated to Campaign for Kids to help raise funds for financially disadvantaged children in Kings County.

WHETHER YOU'RE LOOKING FOR SKILLS DEVELOPMENT, UPGRADING, FUNDING OR POST SECONDARY EDUCATION, WE CAN HELP!

C ontact u s for more info! i rs@communityinc.ca Ken t vil le Offi ce: 90 2- 679 -7 46 9 Wi n ds or Office: 9 02- 7 98- 56 27

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For more information, visit campaignforkids.com/burgerwars April 2022 | 3

MIKE UNCORKED: NO MOW MAY! BEES and Thank You Mike Butler Issue No. 19.04 April 2022

Wolfville Farmers’ Market / Burger Wars .................. p.3 No Mow May / Margot’s Hidden Gems ................... p.4 Free Will Astrology / Star Drop .............................. p.5 Featurepreneur: Scrubbed Green Cleaning .............. p.6 Classifieds / FSTRA ................................................. p.6 Who’s Who: Mary Harwell ...................................... p.7 Gaspereau Press .................................................... p.8 Visually Speaking / I Know a Place ........................ p.9 Wolfville Page .......................................................p.10 Zero-Proof / Dinner Out ........................................ p.11 What’s Happening / Tides ................................ p.12-13 Great Big Crunch / Kings County Public Spaces ......p.13 Light It Up Blue for Autism Awareness ...................p.14 What’s Growing / Raine Hamilton Trio ..................p.14 Music in the Garden Room / Energy Discussion .....p.15

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ADVERTISING ISSUE DEADLINES: MAY 5 ISSUE: Mon. Apr. 25, 2022

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JUNE 2 ISSUE: Mon. May. 23, 2022

CONTRIBUTORS: Margot Bishop, Mike Butler, Scott Campbell, Margaret Drummond, Wendy Elliott, Genevieve Allen Hearn, Anna Horsnell, Samuel Jean, Janet Kirkconnell, Ron Lightburn, Sarah Mullen, Kelly Marie Redcliffe DELIVERIES: Margot Bishop, Earle & Karen Illsley, Robert Knee, Andrea Leeson, John Morrison, Julie and Mugen Page, Fred Phillips, Sam Rhude, Mark Rogers, Lorna Williamson

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WINDSOR: Fry Daddy’s, Gerrish & Gray, Lisa's Cafe, T.A.N. Coffee, Mosaic Market FALMOUTH: Fruit & Vegetable Company, Petro-Canada HANTSPORT: Jim's Your Independent Grocer AVONPORT: Cann’s Kwik-Way GRAND-PRÉ: Convenience Store, Domaine de Grand Pré, Just Us! Café GASPEREAU: Gaspereau Vineyards, Reid's Meats & Kwik-Way, XTR Kwik-Way WOLFVILLE: Carl's Your Independent Grocer, Eos Natural Foods, Just Us! Café, T.A.N. Coffee, Library, Wolfville Farmers' Market GREENWICH: Avery’s Farm Market, Edible Art Cafe, Elderkin's Farm Market, Hennigar's Farm Market, Noggins Corner Farm Market, Stirling's PORT WILLIAMS: Library, Planters Ridge, Post Office, The Noodle Guy

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CANNING: ArtCan Gallery, Degraaf's Kwik-Way, ValuFoods NEW MINAS: Boston Pizza, Captain Sub, Irving Big Stop, Jessy's Pizza, Long and McQuade, Milne Court Petro-Canada, Pita Pit, Swiss Chalet KENTVILLE: Half Acre Café, Jason’s Your Independent Grocer, Library, Maritime Express, Post Office, T.A.N. Coffee, Valley Regional Hospital COLDBROOK: Access Nova Scotia, T.A.N. Coffee, Callister's Country Kitchen, Foodland BERWICK: Jonny's Cookhouse, North Mountain Coffeehouse, Rising Sun Natural Foods, Union Street Café, Wilsons Pharmasave AYLESFORD: Chisholm's Pharma­ Choice KINGSTON: French Bakery, Pharma­save, Green Elephant GREENWOOD: Country Store, Tim Horton’s (Central Ave + Mall), Valley Natural Foods MIDDLETON: Angie’s, Goucher’s, Wilmot Frenchy’s, Tim Horton’s, Library

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4 | April 2022

Some choose to put a lot of work into a lawn. There can be liming, fertilizing, raking, aerating, patching, re-seeding, mowing, rolling, edge trimming and watering. In addition, there can be weeding and pest destruction by herbicides and pesticides respectively, hopefully in an environmentally-sound manner. And as much as it is great to be outside the house, and as much as gardening and yard work is great exercise and therapeutic, let’s pause and ponder the effects of shifting your mowing obsessions, or as I call it: MOW C. D.!

There are positives to lawns. A small neatly kept area of pure green can be a wonderful foil for colorful flower beds. However, there are negatives to lawns. Clearly the “perfect, weed-free” lawn does little, if anything, to promote life on our planet.

A question for environmentalists is how to promote the switch from a sterile, manicured lawn to something more like a meadow that provides and supports life. The No Mow May movement started in the UK and sought to facilitate such a transition by educating and changing the minds of those who clear-cut the lawn. The movement is gaining traction in the Maritimes, thus the town councils of Moncton and Sackville, New Brunswick both lent their support in 2021.

The idea behind the No Mow May movement is to let early-flowering wild plants (especially dandelions) grow in lawns and elsewhere. In this manner, essential food is on hand at the time when hungry native bees, butterflies and insects are emerging.

The No Mow May movement is a worthy initiative. The movement has really got the conversation going and has caused a

seismic shift in attitudes. A concern with No Mow May is that we are importing a European solution in an attempt to solve a Canadian problem. That wouldn’t matter if the climate and growing conditions in the Maritimes and Europe were the same but they are not. Last year, an encouraging number of Annapolis Valley residents did not mow in May. What happened, in some cases at least, was that by mid May the dandelions had gone to seed and by the end of May the grass was quite long.

The relationship between the frequency of mowing, number of native bees and number of wild flowers is not straightforward.

With frequent mowing there are few bees of any description and few wild flowers. As the frequency of mowing decreases at first there are more wild flowers and more bees.

However, there is evidence indicating that, within limits, while the number of flowers always increases as mowing decreases the number of bees on those flowers eventually starts to decline, the suggestion being that native bees don’t like to hunt for flowers in long grass. In addition, climatic conditions are such that bringing the long grass down to something resembling a lawn at the end of May is a challenge for Nova Scotians that the European advocates of No Mow May do not have to face.

Perhaps the first step in strengthening the No Mow May plan is to match the timing and duration of a no mow period to our climatic conditions. There is evidence that if the start of the spring clean up is delayed till there have been 7 to 10 days at around 10 C, the unintended destruction of native insects will be avoided. By this stage the insects that emerge in spring will have left their winter quarters, be they underground or in the stalks of dead plants or fallen leaves. Linking the no mow period to native insect emergence and to the blooming of flowers feeding pollinators would seem to be common sense.

Children enjoy a campfire as part of March Break Camp activities at the Ross Creek Centre for the Arts.

created and maintained to feed the bees. It’s a great first step to helping the movement and to have a visual place to educate youngsters on this movement. Why not create a small pollinator garden on your property and promote it? There are some beautiful gardens in the Annapolis Valley designed to be part lawn and part meadow. Find them and show them off! We have, at our fingertips, the knowledge and advice of the Blomidon Naturalists Society. If you have any questions about what you can do to help, reach out to info@blomidonnaturalists.ca.

Peek at the website, find your strength, make the change and, bees and thank you, enjoy NO MOW MAY.

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FarmWorks Annual General Meeting

Investment Co-operative Limited Phone 902-542-3442 or 902-670-3660 Email: lbest@ns.sympatico.ca Website: https://farmworks.ca/

FarmWorks 11th AGM will be held ONLINE on April 27 at 6:45 pm The Zoom link and agenda and information will be posted at farmworks.ca Please contact lbest@ns.sympatico.ca or phone 902-542-3442 with questions.

I am very proud of those areas of the Valley that promote secluded pollinator gardens,

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WHERE TO FIND US

Can I have a show of hands: who likes to mow their lawn? Okay, there’s a few of you out there but the majority find it to be tedious, sweaty, tiring work that eats up your weekend, and makes your allergies act up.

Let me save you some trouble and introduce you to No Mow May!

ON THE COVER

APRIL’S HIDDEN GEMS Margot Bishop

April’s ‘hidden gems’ are all about the talents hidden in each and every one of us. Everyone has a desire to achieve something creative. Let that talent or interest shine. Do not let anyone try to discourage you. Whatever interests you, let that blossom. Do not allow people to influence you in a bad way, or demean or treat your idea as silly. Every creative idea may become a hobby that could and often does become a lifelong passion. Also, as we mature and change so do our hobbies. Let those ideas change with you. No matter what other people say or think, what interests you is very personal, and should be recognized as that. And remember—hobbies are fun.

of the lovely plants resting in our soil: snowdrops, crocus, even heather blooming beneath the snow cover. The potential of our rich Valley earth becomes clear very early in the season: planting early peas, harvesting the first rhubarb.

What do you want to do? If a hobby intrigues you, but you do not know much about it, research it and find out more information.

If you start something and it becomes less interesting, do not be discouraged, you can always rethink your actions and start something new. There are literally thousands of things that you can consider making your hobby.

The world of art is full of remarkable things to do—from sketching with charcoal or pastel pencils, to painting with watercolours, acrylics or oils. Carving all different mediums, sculpting with everything from clay to concrete. Your hobby, your ideas, your masterpiece.

If you like doing things by yourself maybe collecting is your forte. Everything from stamp collecting to models (cars, airplanes, ships). Knitters often do projects by themselves and then meet to collect or combine them (think of blankets or prayer shawls).

That could be the best of both worlds—solitude AND togetherness.

With sports, anything from walking to ice hockey to kite surfing could be a potential hobby. Of course, there is the expense of hobbies. All factors must be figured in. Do I need lessons, special equipment, certain types of surroundings, like tennis courts?

Music, acting, writing, dance, comes from that inner self. The one that makes you the wonderful person that you are. The love of cooking (and eating) can create great chefs or that perfect grilled cheese sandwich made for your loved one. Even making the pottery dishes that you serve on could become a hobby and even a business.

If you are a gardener, some of your favourite ‘hidden gems’ may be the delight and wonder

Volunteering is a kind of hobby for some people. They love being involved, and a good

Obeisance (noun): A gesture expressing deferential respect, such as a bow or curtsy.

thing too, as they are the backbone of most organizations.

Here is a quote from an old movie (Auntie Mame): “The world is a banquet, and all you need is a fork.” Please remember though that some people’s banquets are not as bountiful as ours in the Valley.

Have fun with whatever hobby you choose.

You are unique, one of a kind, the pleasure you will receive will stay with you long after the activity has ended. Good memories are truly fantastic, so are hobbies.

An Act of Kindness An act of kindness or a daily good deed (done anonymously) not only makes the receiver feel good but the doer as well. With the many religious holidays coming up in our calendar year, it may be a time for thoughtful and respectful good deeds. Show your neighbours, and strangers, that the world is still a kind place to live, especially our Valley and province.

My dad used to say if you did a good deed every day, you got a reward in heaven. It was a joke, as good deeds are not done for any kind of reward—just that nice feeling of well-being. We should all be kind to one another: strangers, neighbours, and family too—the people we often take for granted.

Be good to yourselves and others.

Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter, In there stepped a stately Raven of the saintly days of yore; Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he; But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door— Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door— Perched, and sat, and nothing more.

Excerpt from “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe

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© 2022 Rob Brezsny • freewillastrology.com • Horoscopes for the week of March 31st

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In 1904, it wasn’t illegal to use performance-enhancing drugs during Olympic competitions. Runner Thomas Hicks took advantage of this in the marathon race. The poison strychnine, which in small doses serves as a stimulant, was one of his boosters. Another was brandy. By the time he approached the finish line, he was hallucinating and stumbling. His trainers carried him the rest of the way, and he was declared the winner. I recommend you make him your inspirational role model in the coming weeks.

How might you cheat to gain a great victory? APRIL FOOL! I Lied. While it’s true that a meaningful triumph is within your reach, you’re most likely to achieve it by acting with total integrity, following the rules, and imbibing no stimulating poisons.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Science fiction aficionado Wil Wheaton suggests that all of us should have the following: 1. a nemesis; 2. an evil twin; 3. a secret headquarters; 4. an escape hatch; 5. a partner in crime; 6. a secret identity. Dear Taurus, I have doubts that you possess any of these necessities. Please embark on intensive efforts to acquire all of them. Your deadline is April 21. APRIL FOOL! I half-lied. There’s no way you could add all those things to your repertoire in such a short time.

See if you can at least get a secret identity and a partner in crime. It’s time to have wicked fun as you add to your potency and effectiveness.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “I hate being on my best behavior,” wrote Gemini author Colleen McCullough. “It brings out the absolute worst in me.” In the coming weeks, I hope you avoid the danger she describes. Don’t be on your best behavior! Emulate Gemini filmmaker Clint Eastwood, who said, “I tried being reasonable, but I didn’t like it.” APRIL FOOL! I lied. Here’s the real truth: Being kind and generous and reasonable will be your secret weapon in the next three weeks.

Doing so will empower you to make interesting and unforeseen progress.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A Tumblr blogger named Alyssa complains, “I’m still peeved that I can’t fly or set things on fire with my mind.” You might share that feeling, Cancerian. But here’s the good news: I predict that you could soon acquire, at least temporarily, the power to fly and set things on fire with your mind. Use these talents wisely, please! APRIL FOOL! I lied. In fact, you probably won’t be able to fly or set things on fire with your mind anytime soon. However, you may acquire other superpowers that are only slightly less fantastic. For example, you could change the mind of an ally who has been ridiculously stubborn. You could uncover a big secret that has been hidden.

You could mend a wound you thought would never heal. Any other superpowers you need right now?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I suspect that only a Leo would say what Leo filmmaker Stanley Kubrick once asserted: “You know, it’s not absolutely true in every case that nobody likes a smart ass.” In accordance with astrological omens, I authorize you to prove his assertion. Be the kind of smart ass that people like. APRIL FOOL! I’m half-joking. The truth is, I hope you will be the kind of smart ass that people absolutely adore and get inspired by.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In honor of your arrival in the most lyrical and soulful phase of your cycle, I offer you advice from poet Richard Jackson: “The secret is to paint your own numbers on the clock, to brush away those webs that cover the wild country of the soul, to let your star hover between the flowers of the moon and the flowers of the sun, like words you have never spoken yet always hear.”

APRIL FOOL! I partially lied. I don’t think you should paint your own numbers on the clock. But the rest of what Jackson said is totally applicable and useful for you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “I want excitement,” declared Libra novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald, “and I don’t care what form it takes or what I pay for it, so long as it makes my heart beat.” In the coming weeks, I hope you will make that statement your

motto. APRIL FOOL! I half-lied. While I do foresee you being able to gather a wealth of excitement, I hope you won’t be as extreme as Fitzgerald in your pursuit of it. There will be plenty of opportunities for excitement that won’t require you to risk loss or pay an unwelcome price.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “If you can’t make fun of yourself, you don’t have a right to make fun of others,” said comedian Joan Rivers. I agree! So if you are feeling an irresistible urge to mock people and fling sarcasm in all directions, please prepare by first mocking yourself and being sarcastic toward yourself. APRIL FOOL! I lied. I will never authorize you to make fun of others. Never! In the coming weeks, I hope you’ll do the opposite: Dole out massive doses of praise and appreciation toward everyone. To prepare, dole out massive doses of praise and appreciation toward yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In the traditional opera performed in China’s Sichuan province, magical effects were popular. One trick involved characters making rapid changes of their masks.

The art was to remove an existing mask and don a new one with such speed that the audience could not detect it. An old master, Peng Denghuai, once wore 14 different masks in 24 seconds. This is an antic I think you should imitate in the coming days. The more frequently you alter your persona and appearance, the more successful and popular you’ll be. APRIL FOOL! I half-lied. I recommend that you gleefully experiment with your image and exuberantly vary your self-presentation. But don’t overdo it.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A nutritionist named Mark Haub decided to try losing weight by eating only sugary treats. For 10 weeks, he snacked on junk food cakes, cookies, and sweet cereals. By the end, he had lost 27 pounds. In accordance with astrological omens, I suggest you try the metaphorical equivalents of this project. For instance, work on deepening your relationships by engaging your allies in shallow conversations about trivial subjects. Or see if you can enhance your physical fitness by confining your exercise to crossing and uncrossing your legs as you sit on the couch watching TV. APRIL FOOL! I lied. Here’s your real horoscope: For the next four weeks, take better care of your body and your relationships than you ever have before in your life. Make it a point to educate yourself about what that would entail, and be devoted in providing the most profound nurturing you can imagine.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarius-born Giordano Bruno (1548–1600) was bravely heretical in his work as a philosopher, poet, mathematician, and friar. He angered the Catholic Church with his unorthodox views about Jesus and Mary, as well as his belief in reincarnation, his practice of occult magic, and his views that there are other stars besides our sun. Eventually, the authorities burned him at the stake for his transgressive ideas. Beware of a similar outcome for expressing your unusual qualities! APRIL FOOL! Luckily, no punishment will result if you express the rich fullness of your idiosyncrasies in the coming weeks. I’m happy about that, since I’m encouraging you to be as eccentrically yourself as you want to be.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Life is too complicated to accurately comprehend. There’s too much to know! It’s impossible to make truly savvy and rational decisions. Maybe the best strategy is to flip a coin or throw the dice or draw a Tarot card before doing anything. APRIL FOOL! While it’s a fact that life is too complex for our conscious minds to fully master, we have massive resources available on subconscious and superconscious levels: our deep soul and our higher self. Now is an excellent time to enhance your access to these mother lodes of intelligence.

Homework: What’s the most compassionate prank you could perform?

Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com.

April 2022 | 5

FEATUREPRENEUR: THE GREENER CLEANER! Genevieve Allen Hearn

Spring cleaning is upon us! For Earth Day this year, you may want to take some time to consider what cleaning products you use, and how you can incorporate more eco-friendly products in your routine. Or, even better, support a local cleaning business who will use green cleaning products to make your place sparkle!

We talked to Scrubbed Green Cleaning owner Melissa Thatcher about how she integrates green practices in her cleaning company.

The Grapevine (GV): What got you interested in this line of business?

Melissa Thatcher (MT): My last job before starting this business was for another cleaning company. I was there for about six months. I liked some aspects of it, but it didn’t pay enough. Also, it didn’t seem like their practices were very eco-friendly as there were lots of disposable products and all of their cleaning agents had hazard symbols on them. When I looked around I realized that most cleaning companies around here still rely on toxic chemicals to do their cleaning, and I didn’t want to participate in more of the same.

So, after thinking about my options, I decided to give CBDC [ed: the Community Business Development Corporation] a call to see if they could help me get my own cleaning business started. Now I am my own boss making a living wage, and I can take satisfaction from the fact that I am helping people get a cleaner house without exposing anyone to toxins.

GV: What differentiates what you are doing from other cleaning services?

MT: What differentiates us is that we use almost nothing disposable. We don’t use paper towels or throw away duster heads (think Swiffer). Everything we use can be washed: from cloths, to dusters, to scrubbies, to mop heads. We even re-use spray bottles, because we have all-purpose cleaner strips that we throw in empty bottles and just add hot water.

GV: What makes a product ‘eco-friendly’?

MT: In my mind things that are re-usable instead of disposable are more eco-friendly.

Also, finding ways to re-fill bottles instead of buying new ones would be more eco-friendly, as well as less toxic products.

GV: What are some ways people can clean in an eco-conscious way at home? Are there local

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DONATE/VOLUNTEER: Used Cell Phones Needed: Gently used, unlocked, cleared of personal information – cell phones needed, to be given to people without phones. Drop Off: Middleton or Kingston Libraries. Contact us for other drop off locations. Sponsored by Kingston CHB and Stop Trashing It. INFO: 902 448-4744 / info@redbearhealinghome.ca The Revival Shop: @ Hantsport Baptist Church: Excellent way to recycle good used seasonal clothing.

Donate/shop during open hours: Mon. 9am–12pm, Tues.

2–4pm, Wed. 2–4pm, Thurs. 6–8pm, Sat. 10am–12pm.

Free will donation only for all items. INFO: Call Shirley, 902-684-3563

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS: businesses where they can get eco-friendly products?

MT: Well, they can start with using up all their paper towels and then only purchasing washable products. A great place to start for this would be with Norwex. We use a lot of their products, and I actually started selling it because I believe in it so much. Another option is to fill all of your empty spray bottles with either TruEarth eco-strips, which work great and don’t have a harsh smell, or go in to Wholesum Refillery in Kentville and re-fill them there (I love their tangerine shampoo by the way, smells so good). And the last thing I can suggest is to make use of cleaning vinegar.

It works great by itself or added to your favorite all-purpose cleaner!

GV: How will you be celebrating Earth Day this year?

MT: We will be celebrating Earth Day by planting some seeds and teaching our kids everything we know about lessening our impact on the biosphere.

❧ To contact Melissa at Scrubbed Green Cleaning, visit facebook.com/ scrubbedgreencleaning, call (902) 8705936, or email scrubbedgreen@gmail. com. You can also find Scrubbed Green Cleaning on Facebook or Instagram.

Taste of Tranquility: A 5-week meditation sampler.

Explore various styles of meditation in a warm relaxed atmosphere. All levels welcome. Monday evenings in May. YogaLife studio, Wolfville. Facilitated by Heidi Kalyani. INFO: connect@heartwideopen.ca Genealogy 101: If you have always wanted to explore your family history but don’t know where to begin, this series is for you! Learn the basics about the various resources and technology available, as well as the techniques and practices of compiling sound research.

Cost $100 for six weekly classes, 1:30-3 p.m., (April 12, 19, 26, and May 3,10, and 17) at the Kings County Museum. Pre-registration is required and fees include a free one-year membership to the Society. INFO/Reg: 902-678-6237 / email info@kingscountymuseum.ca Gaspereau Yoga Spring 2022: 9-weeks, Wednesdays, March 30–May 25 @ Bishop Hall, Greenwich. Level 1: 4–5:15pm. An introduction to basic yoga poses. Level 1–2: 5:30-6:45pm. A vigorous yoga practice for students who have already done some yoga. Classes are integrating the celebration of the heart, universal principles of alignment, and balanced energetic action in the performance of yoga poses.

Instructor: Sophie Bérubé. Please provide your own mat, 2 blocks and a strap. TIX: $85 for each level for entire session. Cheque, e-transfer or cash. INFO/Reg: yogagaspereau@gmail.com Flying Squirrels Forest Play: @ Kentville Gorge. Nurturing nature time for healthy childhood development. For ages 3–5 years. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30am–12:30pm. Starts April 26 for 9 weeks. TIX: $335 for nine weeks ($600 for two children registered together) INFO: valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com/programs Coyote Classroom: A school alternative for free-range kids. Ages 5–11. Wednesdays, 9:30am–1:30pm. Starts April 20 for 9 weeks.

Presented by Flying Squirrel Adventures. INFO: valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com/programs G.O.A.L.: Girl’s Outdoor Adventure & Leadership for female-identifying youth. Ages 12–17.

Saturdays, 1–4pm. Starts April 23 for 9 weeks.

Presented by Flying Squirrel Adventures. INFO: valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com/programs

Wild Explorations: Adventure & leadership for male-identifying youth. Ages 12–15. Saturdays, 2:30–5pm. Starting April 23 for 9 weeks.

Presented by Flying Squirrel Adventures. INFO: valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com/programs Queers/Trans Friendly Hikes: Saturdays in April, 2–4pm in Wolfville. All are welcome to join in this inclusive hike where people of all genders can connect with nature, each other, and discover new trails in the area. INFO: valleyflyingsquirrel.wordpress.com/programs

PRODUCTS & SERVICES: Got Mice?: Do you have a MOUSE problem? Or do you have a HOUSE problem? Got Mice Humane Wildlife Services addresses common and uncommon entry points permanently with guaranteed results. Call for a consultation. INFO: 902-365-MICE (6423) / GOTMICE.CA Authentic Spaces: Classical Feng Shui Home Design & Consultations helps you to improve the energy of your homes, design a new house for you, or review existing masterplans. Contact me to book your free intake assessment. INFO: 902-899-9744 / info@authenticspaces.ca Professional Branding, Logo and Web Design, Writing, Translation, & Training: Helping you convey your message effectively since 2006. We offer a remarkably responsive, dependable, and results-driven approach. INFO: 902-691-2932 / michaelgabrielcommunications.com Interior Painting and Cabinets: Women in Rollers is the Valley’s full-service decorating company. We do accurate quotes, show up on time, and perform to perfection. We even leave your home neat and tidy! We have great references! Complimentary design and colour consultations. Call today for your free estimate. INFO: Pamela, 902-697-2926 Errands by Karen Home Blood Collection: Are you busy or can’t get an appointment at the lab? Let Karen come to you! Certified medical lab tech with over 30 years experience. CoVid protocols and screening in effect.

Karen will also take you shopping or run those errands for you. Please call or email to book an appointment. INFO: 902-790-2626 / errandsbykaren@hotmail.com Wood Flooring Restoration and Repair: Make your old floors beautiful again! Sanding, refinishing and repairing hard and soft wood floors. Call for a quote! INFO: 902-542-0664 or 902-300-5903 / steverhude13@gmail.com

GENERAL: Got a Jukebox?: ISO of an original jukebox in good working order. INFO: wolfvilleweddingchapel@gmail.com Interested in Learning What it Takes to Build a House?: We are looking for carpenters/labourers, with or without experience, to help build a home in the Wolfville area. Passion to learn and up to the challenge of physical work is what we are looking for. Transportation is required. Starting mid-April to September. INFO: Thomas, twkrausse@gmail.com

FREE SPIRIT THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOCIATION RECEIVES $90,000 GRANT Submitted

The Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association has been awarded a $90,000 grant for their SPIRIT program through the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund (VFWF). The funding was recently announced at Rohan Wood Stables in Aylesford by the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.

The SPIRIT Program is a collaboration between Clannad Counselling and Consulting Inc., the Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association, and Rohan Wood Stables. It will run over 18 months and be offered to retired or retiring military or RCMP female personnel living in the Central and Western regions of the province. The program is designed to equip women to approach healthy relationships through a new lens in a safe space.

Through shared experiential learning with peers they will build their capacity to focus on their resiliency using a variety of therapies including equine-assisted psychotherapy as well as lunch and learn opportunities to explore new skills, including financial planning, women’s health, and caring for aging parents. Additionally, participants will explore eight alternative therapies using a variety of

6 | April 2022

mediums including art, nature and music. The program wraps up with a weekend retreat for the women and their families celebrating their achievements over the course of the program.

“The transition from military life to life after service can prove to be difficult for some.

These three organizations have developed new and innovative ways to support veterans going through this transition through unique projects like equine therapy, farming, and the arts. I commend them for the good work they’ve done so far and look forward to seeing the positive results this funding will bring veterans,” notes MacAulay.

Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings, is excited to have the program in his riding: “Canada’s veterans have proudly served our nation and it’s our honour to recognize their dedication by providing the supports they need. Organizations like the Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association and the Veteran Farm Project Society play an important role in this work through the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund. I am thrilled that they can help us help veterans.”

❧

WHO’S WHO

MARY HARWELL: A WHITTLE GOES A LONG WAY! Mike Butler

There’s many local celebrities that you can sometimes see in the spotlight, but most of the time work thanklessly behind the scenes, making the Town of Wolfville sparkle. Mary Harwell is one of those celebrities who just doesn’t get enough of the spotlight for all she does. Here is a Whittle profile of this wonderful human!

Mary was born in Nashville, Tennessee. She moved to Toronto when she was a teenager and her mum got remarried to a Canadian.

Mary has had a lifelong passion for theatre, and after graduating from the technical program at Ryerson Theatre School, she spent several years as a freelance stage manager in the Toronto area: “I worked for several seasons as an assistant stage manager at the Canadian Opera Company. In the early ‘90s I started working with Live Entertainment, Inc. as a stage manager on the Toronto production and tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat starring Donny Osmond. After almost 5 years of touring with that production, I took a year off when I had my son, Burton, but went back for a shorter run in 1997. After Joseph closed, I worked for Live Entertainment again with their new production of Fosse, which opened on Broadway in 1999.

I left the show when I was pregnant with my daughter, Olivia, and my husband and I moved to a small island in the Bahamas where he became the executive chef at a small resort.

Three years later, we moved to Wolfville to open our own restaurant, and we ran Tempest Restaurant together from 2003 to 2013, when we sold the business to an employee.”

Mary, as if you didn’t already know, has been the manager at the Al Whittle Theatre since 2012, and she wears many hats! Mary handles all the bookings and inquiries about rentals. She arranges repairs for equipment and building issues. She handles the bookkeeping and office reporting, bill paying and invoices, schedules tech runs, manages events, and performs film-related duties. As well, she reports to the Acadia Cinema Cooperative’s active and engaged board of directors, and works with all the committees to plan for the future of the theatre. She handles the Retro films series and is very active with promotion of events, but could always use some more volunteers to help!

So, the next time you’re enjoying a film or live theatre presentation at the Whittle, think of everything Mary does to make that happen!

If it’s not films and live theatre, you can find Mary enjoying the wonders of food and drink in the Valley! “I am a bit of a foodie and I love to cook and eat,” she notes. “I also love to forage when possible, and between July and October, you will often find me in the woods looking for chanterelles, matsutake mushrooms, lobster mushrooms, or hedgehog mushrooms. I have about ten mushrooms that I can comfortably identify and forage. I also love to draw and doodle, so I try to find time to be creative whenever possible. I am an avid reader, and of course I love the movies, so I come to as many films as possible at the Whittle.”

most of them offer tickets in advance at ticketspi.com.”

I also encourage you to sign up for the email bulletin (eepurl.com/hUeJ9z), or if you prefer social media, follow the Whittle on Facebook or Instagram. If you are interested in booking the theatre for your next event, please contact manager@alwhittletheatre.ca and Mary will be thrilled to help you out!

And, let’s give Mary a standing ovation for navigating through the last two years of the pandemic and keeping the Whittle afloat!

With restrictions easing, Mary is ecstatic to welcome back full houses again. She says, “I am REALLY looking forward to the end of social distancing and having to assign seats to people at the door. I look forward to more and more people feeling comfortable about going out to the theatre again and seeing the audience full. There is something so special about watching a film or concert or theatrical event in a theatre surrounded by others, and sharing the experience as a group. I learned that this organization is resilient and adaptable and we have a strong team of dedicated people invested in making sure that the theatre survives and thrives into the future.”

The Al Whittle is thriving, but can benefit from more volunteers and support. There’s lots coming down the pipe about events, loyalty cards, and more, so stay tuned. The Whittle recently installed some marvelous new cameras and streaming equipment that they feel will be invaluable to their renters for reaching new audiences from near and far, as well as for archival and commercial purposes.

The future can’t be known, but the Whittle has emerged from the Covid storm strong and vibrant and ready for whatever comes our way, and we owe so much of that prosperity to Mary Harwell! Thank you! See you at the theatre!

❧

Mary embraces the small-town feel of Wolfville but loves the big ideas and big events that the town hosts. She enjoys the wineries, biking trails, outdoor events, amazing theatre opportunities, coffee shops, and specialty boutiques. While enjoying all this, she does make a plea to keep it all clean and tidy and think twice before vandalizing anyone’s property, including the very expensive lights of the Whittle Marquee!

The Al Whittle Theatre is very excited to fully welcome back audiences and you can see a show or be a renter of the space if you so desire. Check out alwhittletheatre.ca for all the films and events coming to the theatre. You can see movies, live theatre, filmed theatre, live music and more: it’s a major gem in our community folks, so get out and support Mary and the Whittle.

Mary also mentioned that you might have noticed that the theatre has had many screenings of large blockbuster Indian-language films in the past few months: “We welcome these new renters that have introduced our lovely theatre to new audiences from Halifax and beyond. If you want to check out one of these remarkable cultural experiences, April 2022 | 7

BOOKS BY LOCALS

GASPEREAU PRESS TURNS OUT GREAT BOOKS Wendy Elliott

the Charles Taylor Prize and the Governor General’s Literary Award.

Steeves and Dunfield emphasize their aim is, “making books that reinstate the importance of the book as a physical object”, maintaining control over the design and the manufacturing quality of Gaspereau Press titles.

Last season at Gaspereau Press saw the publication of 14 poetry books and four books of essays, along with works of biography, art, and bibliography. Thus far in 2022 there have been three volumes of poetry.

Lately I’ve been savouring Experiments in Distant Influence, which is a book of notes and poems by Antigonish’s Anne Simpson. This is a 202-page tome of both beauty and substance. It’s a book with heft. The golden-coloured cover has a great texture. The essays and poems inside are all worth pondering.

“Bee Work,” for example, serves to remind us that, “These small marvels, the bees, reveal that ours is a shared existence, not one of dominance and subservience, in which all things participate.”

The two co-owners of Gaspereau Press in Kentville, Andrew Steeves and Gary Dunfield, have been publishing books for 24 years.

They continue to focus on making books of high quality as physical objects. With expert control over design and manufacturing, the press is one of only a few that print and bind books in-house.

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The two owners, who studied criminology and forestry, continue to be fascinated by the varied technical, economic, and sociological puzzles that are involved in being a literary publisher and printer in the twenty-first century.

Since 1997 Gaspereau Press has been a unique publishing company in Nova Scotia and indeed in all of Canada. As a typographer, Steeves has won over 45 national book design awards from the Alcuin Society.

The Canadian Booksellers Association has three times named it “Best Small Press of the Year.” Gaspereau Press publications have been shortlisted for or won every major Canadian literary award, including the Giller,

Located just off Main Street, the press has operated out of the one-time electrical plant in Kentville since 2004. Well-known writers published by Gaspereau Press include Robert Bringhurst, George Elliott Clarke, Carmine Starnino, Peter Sanger, and Jan Zwicky.

In 2010 the firm captured national attention when one of its novels, Johanna Skibsrud’s The Sentimentalists, won the Scotiabank Giller Prize. With a limited initial run of 800 copies, demand grew to a thousand copies a week. So after the announcement, trade rights were sold to Douglas & McIntyre, while Gaspereau Press continued to print a smaller run of the novel’s original edition for book collectors.

“When a small number of people maintain control on the making of an object, from the beginning to the end,” Steeves has said, “it must have an impact on your ability to make a thing that is in harmony and suits its purpose.”

Steeves contends the way things are done at Gaspereau Press “is ultimately the only and the best way to properly make a book.” The handson production ensures books are strong and that “they’ll have a long life instead of falling apart in the third reading.”

“We’re trying to make affordable tools that are used daily towards the construction and preservation of our culture,” Steeves has noted. “We’re not making monuments and decorative things.”

In addition to printing books, Gaspereau Press is a publisher. This gives Steeves complete control over what books it publishes. He has said, “When I’m picking manuscripts, I’m not deaf to what the market can bear but my main motivation is to make books that I want to see in the world.”

While taking things like author, market and cost into consideration Steeves says, “At the end of the day we’re really making books that please us and hoping there’s other people out there that will share that interest.”

❧ For more information visit gaspereau.com.

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8 | April 2022

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VISUALLY SPEAKING: CAROLYN LANDRY Anna Horsnell

The paper is possible because of a tree nurtured from a seed by sunlight and soil. The colour originated from natural sources as well, plant or mineral, though perhaps chemically altered. The brush is wood, natural hair, or synthetic bristles held together by a metal sleeve. The artist picks up the brush to place the paint on the paper. She is profoundly aware.

Carolyn Landry is quite simply a person very much in tune with the natural world. She does not consider herself creative, even feeling detached from the process. She paints, “to see things differently, to see the truth, to see things as they really are.” In fact, her first watercolour painting came in response to experiencing the devastation of a clear-cut forest in Bear River when she asked herself, “What is my part in this?” Her watercolour paintings are gentle explorations of what she learns by seeing things clearly and letting go. She approaches the work with an open mind to try different things, to work out her thoughts, to perhaps play with colour and shape and line. There are suggestions of tradition amidst wonderfully abstract freedom.

Perhaps you’ve attended one of Landry’s workshops to make a pair of soft leather moccasins or weave a beautiful basket. Maybe you were present when she performed a traditional Mi’kmaw smudge ceremony at Kentville’s Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony last September, or any number of other local events.

Possibly you saw her online video on how to construct a traditional hand drum. As a member of the Annapolis Valley First Nation, she gently reaches out to share her knowledge and bridge the gap of cultural understanding.

Landry was born in Berwick during a snowstorm, but grew up in Kingston. She left school early to spend five years living on the land, learning from her father how to fish and trap, how to walk in the forest and leave no trace of your passing, how to respect animals.

“I remember the lessons very clearly,” she notes. The lessons continued, with her mother and elder family members teaching her about ceremony and traditions, and skills passed down through generations. She travelled,

Watercolour by Carolyn Landry, courtesy of the artist

married, raised three children, and returned to school to eventually earn a master’s degree in sociology from Acadia University.

At the heart of it all Landry does live the seven sacred teachings of ancient Mi’kmaw tradition she learned from her family, notably her mother and grandmother. Providing guidance to end suffering and find peace, joy, and harmony in life, the seven teachings include love, respect, courage, truth, humility, wisdom, and honesty. Landry sees her art as simply an instrument toward understanding these teachings. “Everything takes me back to the land,” she explains, “We can only see if we experience.” She shies from any attachment and seeks only gratitude and expression.

Much is gained by slowing down, listening, and looking deeply to understand our world and each other. To learn more about Carolyn Landry’s art, or for information regarding any of her workshops and services through her business, Redfeather Native Art, email her directly at landrycarolyn@hotmail.com or call 1-902-300-9982.

❧

I KNOW A PLACE by Ron Lightburn

My Little Chickadee Ron Lightburn’s art cards are now available at locations throughout the Annapolis Valley: Tides Art Gallery, R.D. Chisholm and the Kings County Museum in Kentville; The Port Pub and Sea Level Brewing in Port Williams; Rusty Chandelier in Coldbrook; Absolutely Fabulous at Home, Henny Penny’s Farm Market and Saunders Tartans & Gifts in New Minas; Endless Shores Books in Bridgetown.

thelightburns.com

April 2022 | 9

10 | April 2022

ZERO PROOF: ATTENDING TO WEEDS AND A RECIPE FOR ALLERGY TISANE Avery Peters

The first spring we had our property, we planted our orchard and mulched around each tree. We cursed at the thistle that grew around between the trees and tried to hack it down.

The kids wanted to run around barefoot as we worked on the orchard and they quickly learned to watch out for these pokey weeds.

The next summer as I walked around our property there was less thistle and I began to read more about the succession of weeds, which tell about the health of the soil. Zak and are slowly learning that we don’t have the energy or time to tend to everything we perceive as “problems” that need to be fixed, so we focus on one thing at a time. I started to relax more once I realized it was my job to take a deep breath and walk around the property. To notice what was growing where.

To resist the urge to control what grew in the barren patches.

I love to watch the wildflowers that come up.

Many of them are invasive. People with tiny yards can attempt to control a small patch, but when you have six acres of semi-cleared field, that is a lot more to control. It’s not possible. This is what I have been learning this winter in my own body—to let go of my need to control. This spring I will return to the field with new knowledge ingrained in me. I will continue to watch the succession that happens as the soil builds its health, year upon year. Nature knows what it is doing. Rather than fight with these plants, my relationship with them deepens. They each perform their task. Plants like dandelion are not native to our area, but they were also brought here for a reason, whether for their medicinal or soil-building properties.

I like to walk around my property with my basket, ready to forage the uncultivated: whatever edible or medicinal weeds, mushrooms, or evergreens are currently growing. First in the spring comes coltsfoot: I am slowly learning of its uses. Next comes dandelion.

First we harvest its leaves for salads. They are less bitter before the blossoms begin to form and so nutritive. Another project I have yet to make the time for is to harvest and pickle the dandelion flower buds before they open to use

LUNCH AT THE ESSENTIALLY ENGLISH BAKERY AND CAFÉ Scott Campbell

As of one year ago, my family lives on 17 acres in the Gaspereau Valley on a north-facing slope saturated with springs that run down the mountain. Now that winter is over, I see the land slowly revealing itself again and I watch where the water flows. There are many pools in our forest where the ferns of last year reach up their browned stems and the small hemlocks continue to grow around them. There is one variety of fern that remains green all winter as it mats itself against the rotting leaves, nourishing the ground for a new year’s growth.

It was so exciting to begin acting on our vision for this land when we purchased our property three years ago. I’d always dreamed of having an orchard. I grew up in the Niagara area where orchards and vineyards are abundant, and many of my relatives own and operate fruit production. I planned a permaculture orchard, where all the plants work together to support each other. It’s an overwhelming ambition that requires more knowledge than I have. I began my orchard by not doing anything except planting, mulching, watering, and pruning the trees, leaving them vulnerable to disease and pests, which inevitably came. Each year I slowly learn more. I hope my trees are resilient enough to withstand my learning process.

DINNER OUT

We have the Royals, we have Beefeater Gin, we have Adele…and now we have the Essentially English Bakery and Café. And the good news is: it is in Hantsport! You don’t have to fly across The Pond to enjoy any of the delights that are available there.

Photo courtesy of Avery Peters

like capers in salads and other dishes. In the summer I especially love to harvest clover for my allergy tea. I watch the bees, as they love it too. I investigate what else grows in and amongst the clover we seeded over the last two years.

I channel my harvests into various projects that nourish me and my family throughout the year. Like many, I have seasonal allergies, and in the spring they come on strong, starting with itchy eyes as soon as the temperatures begin to rise above zero. Last year, I found a recipe for this allergy tisane, developed by Erin Boyle, which you can find on the Gardenista website (gardenista.com/ posts/miracle-cure-for-spring-allergies-gentlenettle-tea/). I have adapted her recipe with a few of my own substitutions, but the ingredients remain mostly similar. She does not give any amounts for each herb, and I like to blend by generous handfuls depending on my mood.

I encourage you to read her descriptions of the benefits of each herb which support the body and alleviate seasonal allergies. I start with a good base of nettle, which is a wonderful natural antihistamine. Then I add spearmint and peppermint (which help open up airways).

Even if you do not have all of the ingredients on hand, I encourage you to blend up what you have as even the basic herbs (nettle, mint, clover) will support you.

Here is a basic guide to the amounts of herb to make your own blend: 4 parts nettle 4 parts mint (blend of peppermint and spearmint) 3 parts clover 2 parts calendula 2 parts lemongrass 2 parts cleavers (I substitute cleavers for Erin’s addition of Yerba Santa) 1 part lavender 1/2 part fennel 1/2 part liquorice root (I substitute this for stevia, which you may want to use instead)

When my editor contacted me about the Essentially English Bakery and Café, she suggested it wasn’t the usual type of place I’d write about. First of all, it’s a bakery, but they do offer a sit-down lunch menu so I was convinced. I am very happy that I accepted this particular assignment. My family lineage goes almost directly back to the UK so there was already a sense of familiarity with the bakery/café when I arrived. There was a soup and salad special of the day so I opted for that.

One of my dining friends, also with a British pedigree, opted for the traditional steak and kidney pie. We were both blown away.

The soup was corn chowder, and the sandwich was ham and cheddar cheese on white bread.

It was a hearty meal indeed. The sandwich was brimming with delicious, sliced ham stacked on the thickly-sliced homemade bread. The corn chowder was piping hot and full of creamy corn goodness. The steak and kidney pie looked incredible, with a golden crust and steaming roasted meat soaked in rich gravy.

My dining friend took a bite and looked up and said, “It tastes exactly like I expected it to taste.” That is high praise coming from his very discerning palate.

But as good as our main course was, the showcase full of fresh baked pastries would prove to be the jewel in the crown. I asked our server what she suggested and without hesitation she told me that the cherry and almond cheesecake was one of her favourites. I did not need convincing, but there was something else I knew I needed to try with my dessert: a cup of tea. When your cup of tea arrives in a china mug, you know you are enjoying a little slice of Britain in the Valley.

It was an amazing dining experience, but I would be remiss if I did not also point out the exceptional fresh baked bread offerings. I got a loaf of white bread which was beautiful (yes, I squeezed it). There is also a wide selection of groceries imported from the UK. We left with

Tea in a china mug, Corn chowder with ham and cheddar sandwhich, and Cherry almond cheesecake. Photos courtesy of Scott Campbell.

a jar of their orange marmalade.

If you would like to treat yourself to a wonderful lunch served in a warm and friendly little café and you’d like to take some tempting British treats home with you, and you don’t want to travel across the Atlantic, go to Hantsport and visit the Essentially British Bakery and Café.

Cheerio.

❧

Follow Scott on Instagram@ ScottsGrapevine

Blend all dry ingredients together in a bowl and place in a mason jar in your pantry or next to your kettle.

To drink: Place 4 tablespoons of the blend into a 1-quart mason jar. Pour boiling water overtop.

Place the lid on and let it steep.

This tisane requires a strong decoction which you can steep for at least 4 hours, and it can be steeped overnight as well.

Erin Boyle recommends drinking 32 ounces per day (1 quart) and to begin drinking it before allergy season starts.

❧

April 2022 | 11

Brought to you by

Send your events to listings@grapevinepublishing.ca * Shaded events take place weekly or more than once, as noted

THURSDAY, MARCH 31

Teens Open Studio — 7 Arts, Greenwood 7–9pm.

WEEKLY! • Work on your own artwork or collaborate on a group project. Ages 13+ TIX: $25 per class or $80 for 4 classes, supplies included. $10 if you bring your own supplies. INFO/Reg: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca Romeo and Juliet — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm.

ALSO April 1, 2, 7pm, April 2, 2pm • Valley Drama School will bring Shakespeare’s classic tragedy to life in an action-packed new production. TIX: $25 Just Us Coffee in Wolfville or valleydramaschool.com INFO: 902-389-7937 / info@valleydramaschool.com Trivia Night — Oaken Barrel Pub, Greenwood 7–9pm.

WEEKLY! • Teams of 6 encouraged. We count the 6 best scoring weeks towards our grand prizes! You can also win flash prizes throughout the evening. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-765-8933 / info@oakenbarrel.ca Songwriters OpenMic — Maritime Express Cider Co., Kentville, NS 7:30–9:30pm. WEEKLY • Songwriter session with guest hosts each week. Come listen or sing a couple of songs. TIX: Suggested $15 or pay what you want INFO: info@musicincommunities.com Music with Alex — West Side Charlies, New Minas 8–11pm • Listen to her sing! TIX: no charge INFO: 902-681-9378 / Facebook: @ WestSideCharliesNewMinas

FRIDAY, APRIL 1

The Batman — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–10:30pm • When the Riddler begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, Batman is forced to investigate the city’s hidden corruption and question his family’s involvement. TIX: $9.95 Adult, $6.95 Youth (+HST) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca Raine Hamilton String Trio — Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, Windsor 7:30–9:30pm • Raine Hamilton String Trio (accompanied by an ASL interpreter) TIX: no charge INFO/RSVP: 902-798-5841 / puppets@mermaidtheatre.ca Karaoke — West Side Charlies, New Minas 9pm–1am.

WEEKLY! • Come sing your favorite song! TIX: no charge INFO: 902-681-9378 / Facebook: @ WestSideCharliesNewMinas

SATURDAY, APRIL 2

Breakfast — Lions Club, Kentville 8–10:30am • Kentville Lions Club Breakfast TIX: $8 Adults, $4 children under 10 INFO: 902-679-2367 / myrna_harnum@hotmail.ca Farmers Market — Farmers Market, Wolfville 9am–1pm. WEEKLY! • Socially distanced indoor market featuring over 50 vendors. Get fresh and local food. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-697-3344 / wfmassistant@wolfvillefarmersmarket.ca Spring Craft and Vendor Sale — Fire Hall, Greenwich 10am–5pm • Celebrate the start of spring! Proceeds going to Advocates of Angels to support the many programs they help to fund. TIX: donation INFO: information@advocatesforangelsinmotion.com Three Prince Charmings — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 11am & 2pm. ALSO April 9, 11am & 2pm • Come meet the Three Prince Charmings!! Call and reserve your seats! TIX: $7 Adults/$5 children under 12.

Cash only. Masks encouraged. INFO: 902-678-8040 Shine Blue for Autism Acceptance — Clock Park, Wolfville 12–12:30pm • Shine Blue Lights from Homes and Businesses! Wear blue! Join in the Human Chain Group Hug in downtown Wolfville. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-542-3421 / missvicki@eastlink.ca Irish Jam — Lunn’s Mill Brewery, Lawrencetown 2–5pm • Get ready for a Craic! The Irish Jam will be taking over the taproom so break out the fiddle and join in the fun. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-584-2217 / taproom@lunnsmill.beer Paint Pour With Jane — 7 Arts, Greenwood 2–4pm • Try a fun technique, using unorthodox tools, balloons, string and torch on 11x14” canvas. All Ages welcome. TIX: $40 and $30 for additional canvas INFO: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca The Barkhouse Boyz — West Side Charlies, New Minas 3pm & 9pm • Country Rock! TIX: no charge INFO: 902-681-9378 Chili Take Out Fundraiser — Community Hall, 989 Deep Hollow Rd., Black River 4–6pm • Chili, roll and dessert. Call/email to pre-order. TIX: $10 INFO: 902-542-5125 / 902-542-7913 / sharonlake07@gmail.com Raine Hamilton Trio — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:30pm • Resonant, acoustic chamber folk with an otherworldly edge, and a lyric presence that cuts deep. Prism-clear vocals + strings. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca Comedy Night with Fangzhou He — Royal Canadian Legion, Annapolis Royal 8–10pm • Advance tickets on sale at the Legion bar. TIX: $20 INFO: 902-532-5196 / annapolisroyallegion@hotmail.com

12 | April 2022

MARCH 31 – MAY 5, 2022 SpeakEasy — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Marian Kind and Voodoo Charmers! Double bill!

Mimi Bennett, Dave Morine, Rick Clayton and Aaron Lund will entertain with blues and rock. Joe, Dave, Keir and Stephane will again cast their bluesy spell with favourites and originals. TIX: $15. Tickets must be reserved in advance. INFO: 902-542-5424

SUNDAY, APRIL 3

Community Meditation Group — Bishop Hall, Greenwich 10:30am. WEEKLY! • Beginners are welcome. Sitting and walking meditation followed by tea and discussion. TIX: donation INFO: Stephen.Brown@nscc.ca / Joan Norris, 902-542-7993 MakersSpace — 7 Arts, Greenwood 12–4pm • Bring your own supplies, or $10 try something new with 7Arts supplies. TIX: $5 drop in fee with own supplies, $10 use 7Arts’ supplies INFO/Reg: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca Crib Tournament — Forties Community Centre, 1787 Forties Rd, New Ross 1pm (register 12:30pm) • Canteen available. Wheelchair accessible (ground level). TIX: $20 / team INFO: 902-689-2147 Sofa Sundays — Avon River Heritage Museum, Newport Landing 1–3pm • Performances by Dana Sipos + Devarrow, surrounded by visual art from our collection exploring the Golden Age of Sail in Avondale. TIX: $10 or PWYC INFO: 902-757-1718 / infoavonriver@gmail.com Cyrano — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm & 7pm • Too self-conscious to woo Roxanne himself, wordsmith Cyrano de Bergerac helps young Christian nab her heart through love letters. TIX: $12. Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca

MONDAY, APRIL 4

GriefShare — New Hope Wesleyan Church, Kentville 7–9pm. WEEKLY! • Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one. A special weekly seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.

We know it hurts, and we want to help. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-670-9288 / gerrits.bernadine@gmail.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 5

Public Hearing & Municipal Council — Municipality of the County of Kings, Coldbrook 6pm • TIX: no charge INFO: 888-337-2999 Youth Art Lessons — 7 Arts, Greenwood 7–9pm.

WEEKLY! • Ages 8-12, Classic art lessons taught by local artists. Media varies – drawing, painting, fibre art etc.

TIX: $25 per class or $80 for 4 classes. Email to register.

INFO: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6

Wolfville Legion Coffee/Tea Social — Community Hall, White Rock 9:30–11:30am. WEEKLY! • Drop in for a fresh baked treat and enjoy fellowship (masks are optional). TIX: $2 INFO: 902-542-5869 / wolfvillelegion@gmail.com Storytime — Memorial Library, Wolfville 10:30–11am.

WEEKLY! • Each week, we will sing songs, share books, and more! For ages 2–5 accompanied by parent/ caregiver. TIX: no charge INFO: valleylibrary.ca Lenten Concert Series — Wolfville Baptist Church, Wolfville 12–1pm • Hazel Walker and Graham Howes will be offering a varied repertoire of mainly jazz standards from the American songbook.

Social distancing and mask wearing will be observed. TIX: donation INFO: 902-542-5524 / soundcircles@gmail.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 7

Pop Art Show — 7 Arts, Greenwood 12–6pm • POP ART Art show is bold, glamorous, witty, young, and fun, just to name a few. Visit the show and see some terrific paintings or pick up something special. Drop by or book an appt at 7arts@7arts.ca TIX: no charge INFO: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca Taproom Growlers – Free Live @ Lunch — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 12–1pm • A free live performance series. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca Cribbage Tournament — Lunn’s Mill Brewery, Lawrencetown 4–8pm • Sign up with your team or as an individual. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-584-2217 / taproom@lunnsmill.beer Music with Alex — West Side Charlies, New Minas 8–11pm • Listen to her sing! TIX: no charge INFO: 902-681-9378 / Facebook: @ WestSideCharliesNewMinas

FRIDAY, APRIL 8

Man In Plaid at Kings Arms Pub — Kings Arms Pub, Kentville 5:30–9:30pm • Enjoy classic rock and Maritime tunes with your favourite beverage. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-483-9261 / maninplaidmusic@gmail.com Tom Regan Memorial Concert — Festival Theatre, Wolfville 7:30–10pm • The best performances by the Acadia School of Music’s students, faculty, alumni, and friends. TIX: $30 (general) $15 (students) @ Acadia Box Office INFO: 902-542-5500 / pas@acadiau.ca Madison Violet — Evergreen Theatre, Margaretsville 8–10:30pm • After 20 years together Lisa MacIsaac and Brenley MacEachern continue to push musical boundaries TIX: Adults $35, Military $30, Students $20 INFO: 902-825-6834 / evergreentheatre@gmail.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 9

Food handlers certification class — Windermere Community Hall, Berwick 9am–4pm • In-person food handlers certification class. TIX: $44.99 plus tax INFO: 902-321-1375 / thecybershop.fst@gmail.com SPCA Easter Craft/Vendor Sale — Royal Canadian Legion, Windsor 9am–1pm • Home crafted items, blueberry products, baked goods & home based businesses selling their products. 50/50 Draw, Canteen. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-798-4428 / hantsspca@gmail.com Ventastic — Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, Windsor 2–4pm • Michael Harrison presents an up-to-date twist on the long lost art form of vaudeville ventriloquism. Advance tickets only. Family fare. TIX: $30 INFO: 902-798-5841 / puppets@mermaidtheatre.ca Spring Ceilidh Dance — Louis Millet Community Complex, New Minas 6–9pm • An amazing evening of music, dance, food and community! TIX: $12 Advance, $18 at door, Age 5 and under FREE INFO: info@valleyirish.com / valleyirish.com Anything Goes — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7–9pm • From the National Theatre Live series…’the show of the year’! TIX: $15 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca Epic Eagles Tribute — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:30pm • Canada’s Definitive Eagles Tribute Band: Five musicians from Canada who feel privileged to perform the timeless music of the Eagles & Don Henley (solo). TIX: $38 Adult, $8 Youth (+HST) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca Bahamas with special guest Ariel Posen — Convocation Hall, Wolfville 8pm • Bahamas (Afie Jurvanen) comes to Wolfville as part of his STILL SAD TOUR, supporting his award-winning fifth full-length album, Sad Hunk. Special guest is guitarist and songwriter Ariel Posen. TIX: $53.50 advance / $58.50 day of show (including tax & fee) Call for tickets. INFO: 902-542-5500 / info@sonicconcerts.com SpeakEasy — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Lisa Richard Trio! Country sensation Lisa Richard backed up by Warren Robert and P. Paul Majcan! Joe Henry, singer/songwriter and new Nova Scotian, will start the night off with a few tunes. Southern rock, uptempo country and a fabulous show! TIX: $20.

Tickets must be reserved in advance. INFO: Ruth, 902-542-5424

SUNDAY, APRIL 10

Prom Dress Resale — Rowans Room , Cambridge 10am–2pm • Dresses, accessories, suits and jackets!

Let us help you with an affordable option to get just the right thing for that special occasion. All proceeds going to Rowans Room TIX: pay what you can INFO: tkeith@rowansroom.ca Sunday Music in the Garden Room — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre, Wolfville 2–4pm • Multi-award-winning pianist Cindy Thong will be heard in works by Brahms, Schumann, Liszt, and Australian composer Carl Vine. TIX: free INFO: artsacadia.acadiau.ca Wildhood — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm & 7pm • A rebellious two-spirit teenager runs away from home to find his birth mother and reclaim his Mi’kmaw heritage. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca

TUESDAY, APRIL 12

Lions Community Luncheon — Lions Club, Kingston 12–1pm • Chicken Cordon Bleu with mashed potato, vegetables, roll and dessert. Pre-order Apr 6 & 7, 8am–noon. TIX: $12 take out, $13 delivery INFO: 902-765-2128 / klionsclub@eastlink.ca

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13

Gamestop — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7–8:45pm • The David-and-Goliath story about the group of amateur investors who bought stock in the failing video game chain, GameStop. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca

THURSDAY, APRIL 14

Wolfville & Area Newcomers Club Meeting — Lions Club, Wolfville 7–9pm • Come to find out about the Club or to get reacquainted. Proof of Vaccine and Masks Required. TIX: no charge INFO: wolfvillenewcomers@hotmail.com Music with Alex — West Side Charlies, New Minas 8–11pm • Listen to her sing! TIX: no charge INFO: 902-681-9378 / Facebook: @ WestSideCharliesNewMinas

FRIDAY, APRIL 15

Shop Local Spring Vendor Event — Community Centre, Wilmot 10am–2pm. ALSO Sat. April 16 10am–2pm • Get your Easter bake goods, crafts, soaps, home decor, gourmet jam and so much more!

Kids craft and drawing station. TIX: no charge INFO: novascotiapantry@hotmail.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 16

Lions Big Breakfast — Woflville & District Lions Hall, 36 Elm Ave., Wolfville 8–10am • Enjoy a breakfast that is sure to fill your belly! TIX: $10 adults, $4 under age 10 INFO: 902-542-4508

Reservoir Park Forest Bathing — Reservoir Park, 1 Pleasant St., Wolfville 10am–12pm • Dress warmly for a two hour guided forest bathing walk. TIX: $40 each or $70 for two. Email to register, space is limited. INFO: 705-279-4479 / softpinewellness@gmail.com Zootopia – Easter Movie! — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 10:30am–12pm • Determined to prove herself, Officer Judy Hopps, the first bunny on Zootopia’s police force, jumps at the chance to crack her first case – even if it means partnering with scam-artist fox Nick Wilde to solve the mystery. It’s big fun for all shapes and species! TIX: FREE! INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca Corey Adams & the All-Star Band — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:30pm • King’s Theatre presents Corey Adams & The All-Star Band for an unforgettable night of smooth R&B jazz. TIX: $30 Adult, $5 Youth (HST additional) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca SpeakEasy — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Mark Riley! An unforgettable evening of jazz, R&B and funk from one of the Valley’s favourite performers. TIX: $20. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Reservations are required. INFO: Ruth, 902-542-5424 The Town Heroes — Evergreen Theatre, Margaretsville 8–10:30pm • Mike Ryan & Bruce Gillis, The Town Heroes. At heart, their music is a perfect soundtrack for contemplating life with a bounce in your step.

TIX: Adults $35, Military $30, Students $20 INFO: 902-825-6834 / evergreentheatre@gmail.com Thunder Kiss — West Side Charlies, New Minas 9pm–1am • Classic Rock! TIX: no charge INFO: 902-681-9378 / Facebook: @ WestSideCharliesNewMinas

SUNDAY, APRIL 17

Sunday Music in the Garden Room — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre 2–4 pm • Quebec pianist Jean-Luc Therrien on a Debut Atlantic tour. Program of Jacques Hétu, Debussy, Liszt, David McIntyre, and Prokofiev. TIX: free INFO: artsacadia.acadiau.ca

Always check this source for accurate tides: Canadian Fisheries & Oceans. www.waterlevels.gc.ca MAR 31 APR 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 MAY 01 02 03 04 05

HIGH 12:59pm

LOW 7:09pm

•1:46pm 2:30pm 3:13pm 3:53pm 4:34pm 5:15pm 5:58pm 6:46pm 7:38pm ••7:59am 8:57am 9:54am 10:48am 11:38am 12:26pm 1:11pm 1:57am 2:42pm 3:28pm 4:17pm 5:10pm 6:07pm 7:10pm 7:38am 8:46am 9:50am 10:50am 11:44am 12:34pm 1:21pm

7:32am 8:16am 8:58am 9:38am 10:18am 10:59am 11:42am 12:29pm 1:21pm 2:16pm 3:12pm 4:07pm 4:59pm 5:47pm 6:33pm 7:18pm 7:42am 8:27am 9:13am 10:00am 10:52am 11:48am 12:50am 1:55pm 3:02pm 4:04pm 5:02pm 5:54pm 6:42pm 7:26pm 7:50am

2:04pm 2:46pm 3:25pm 4:04pm 4:43pm

8:31am 9:10am 9:48am 10:28am

THERE ARE NORMALLY TWO HIGH AND TWO LOW TIDES EACH DAY.

•Highest High: 45.5 feet ••Lowest High: 36.8 feet

MARCH 31 – MAY 5, 2022 Nightmare Alley — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm & 7pm • A grifter working his way up from low-ranking carnival worker to lauded psychic medium matches wits with a psychiatrist bent on exposing him. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

Spring Take Out Luncheon — United Baptist Church, Port Williams 11:30–12:30pm • Spring Has Sprung! Takeout Corn Chowder/Hamburger Soup luncheon. Cost is $10 for your chosen soup, bread and butter and either Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting or Apple Crisp. TIX: $10. Call to order by April 18. INFO: 902-542-3681 / 902-542-7141 / pburden@ns.sympatico.ca Sunflowers Painting for Ukraine — 7 Arts, Greenwood 6:30–8:30pm • Join Artist Kathy Blinn for this acrylic painted wooden sunflower event. 100% funds go to Red Cross. This is a fun, family friendly event. All supplies included. All ages welcome. TIX: $15 INFO: 902-765-7278 / 7arts@7arts.ca Power for the People — Virtual Zoom Discussion 7–8:30pm • Can community-generated energy reduce costs for consumers? The Kings North NDP invites you to join a panel discussion on energy, moderated

by Erin Patterson. TIX: No Charge: INFO/REG: https://tinyurl.com/KingsNorthNDP

THURSDAY, APRIL 21

Jean-Luc Therrien – Free Live @ Lunch — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 12–1pm • A free live performance series. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca

FRIDAY, APRIL 22

Blue Beach Forest Bathing — Blue Beach, 127 Blue Beach Rd, Hantsport 7–8:30pm • Dress warmly for a guided forest bathing walk at Blue Beach. TIX: $40 each or $70 for two. Email to register, space is limited. INFO: 705-279-4479 / softpinewellness@gmail.com Middle Raged — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:30pm • Hilarious Sketch Comedy TIX: TICKETS $32 Adult, $12 Youth (+HST) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca

SATURDAY, APRIL 23

Kings Kikima Grannies Spring Sale — Lions Hall, Wolfville 9am–2pm • Jewelry, Jewelry Art. Plants and more. INFO: betsybaillie@gmail.com SpeakEasy — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Jill Hiscock Group! We’re excited to welcome back Jill, Ian, Jerry and Dave to delight us with their smooth soul, R&B and jazz stylings! COVID-19 rules apply. TIX: $10. Tickets must be reserved in advance. INFO: Ruth, 902-542-5424 Jimmy Rankin’s Kitchen Party — Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre, Windsor 8–10pm • W/ special guests Breagh MacKinnon and Hauler. Bar will be open.

This is a 19+ event. TIX: $48. Advance tickets only.

INFO: 902-798-5841 / puppets@mermaidtheatre.ca Outlaw Country Tribute — West Side Charlies, New Minas 9pm–1am • Outlaw Country tribute to Waylon, Willie and the Boys! Thomas Matheson and The Desperado Band. TIX: $15 INFO: 681-9378

SUNDAY, APRIL 24

Spring Watercolour — 7 Arts, Greenwood 2–4pm • Join Artist Sarah Shortliffe for a spring watercolour painting.

Great for beginners or to learn new techniques and tips. No painting or drawing experience necessary, Ages 16+, all supplies included. TIX: $40 INFO: 902-765-7278 / 7Arts@7arts.ca Sunday Music in the Garden Room — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre 2–4 pm • Spencer Myer, piano, a Steinway Artist, whose acclaimed performances as soloist and collaborative pianist have spanned the world. Program: Beethoven, Lilly Larsen, Debussy, and Chopin. TIX: free INFO: artsacadia.acadiau.ca After Yang — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm & 7pm • In a near future, a family reckons with questions of love, connection, and loss after their A.I. helper unexpectedly breaks down. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27

The Last Tourist — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7–8:45pm • Travel is at a tipping point. From Caribbean beaches to remote villages in Kenya, forgotten voices reveal the real conditions and consequences of one of the largest industries in the world. The role of the modern tourist is on trial. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca

FRIDAY, APRIL 29

Introduction to iNaturalist — Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens, Wolfville 9–11am • Participate in the City Nature Challenge 2022 by submitting nature observations. Details are available in the New and Events section of the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre website. TIX: no charge INFO: samuel.jean@acadiau.ca / kcirvingcentre.acadiau.ca

SATURDAY, APRIL 30

Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 6–8pm • See the popular children’s book come to life on stage! TIX: $18 Adult, $8 Youth (+HST) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca Meagan & Amy Duo – Piano & Violin — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:30pm • The duo’s professional and community-engaged work extends nationally and internationally. TIX: $30 Adult, $5 Youth (+HST) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca SpeakEasy — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Sam Wilson Quintet! How better to celebrate International Jazz Day than with Sam, Andrew Jackson and three of the best players around? If you love jazz, this is your opportunity to witness their magic! TIX: $20. Tickets must be reserved in advance. INFO: Ruth, 902-542-5424 Kristin Martell and Joce Reyome — Evergreen Theatre, Margaretsville 8–10:30pm • A doubleheader show with two very contrasting styles TIX: Adults $35, Military $30, Students $20 INFO: 902-825-6834 / evergreentheatre@gmail.com

SUNDAY, MAY 1

Craft Fair/Ticket Auction — Fire Hall, Kentville 10am– 4pm • Money raised will go towards the purchase of a wheelchair van for Nancy. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-670-4116 / donnabudd2010@gmail.com Art Show: Wish You Were Here — 65 Chestnut St., Windsor 12–4pm • Kelly Mitchelmore’s 13th annual art show at her home gallery in Windsor. This year’s event is dedicated to her father Gerald Mitchelmore and includes a special collection of inspirational sky paintings in celebration of his life. Parking available at Yum Bakery on Cedar St. Part proceeds in support of the VON. For those unable to make it in person, the show will be online after 2pm. INFO: kellymitchelmore.ca Sunday Music in the Garden Room — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre 2–4 pm • meagan&amy, violin and piano, the William Marshall Bishop Memorial Concert. Program of Florence Price, Mozart, David McIntyre, Saint-Saens, Marjan Mozetich, Lili Boulanger, John Adams, and Dinuk Wijeratne. TIX: free INFO: artsacadia.acadiau.ca Everything Everywhere All At Once — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm & 7pm • An aging Chinese immigrant is swept up in an insane adventure, where she alone can save the world by exploring other universes connecting with the lives she could have led. TIX: $12 Cash or debit/credit at the door OR online eventbrite.ca INFO: manager@alwhittletheatre.ca Legendary Downchild Blues Band — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:30pm • The longest 50ty anniversary tour ever! TIX: $61.50 Adult (+HST) INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca

THURSDAY, MAY 5

David Chamberland – Free Live @ Lunch — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 12–1pm • A free live performance series. TIX: no charge INFO: 902-532-7704 / boxoffice@kingstheatre.ca

3500 VALLEY STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN GREAT BIG CRUNCH

National event shows support for a universal school food program Sarah Mullen, Kings County Community Food Council On March 10, a resounding ‘crunch’ was heard throughout the Valley. Over 3500 hundred students across the Valley made some noise by participating in the GREAT BIG CRUNCH (GBC) and biting into crunchy (and local) apples, to show support for a healthy, universal, cost-shared school food program.

The GBC is a national event to draw attention to the fact that Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program.

This annual moment of anti-silence invites students, teachers, parents, and others passionate about food to crunch into apples to make noise for healthy school food. The event is organized by the national Coalition for Healthy School Food (healthyschoolfood.ca), a non-profit advocating for public investment in a universal school food program.

A universal school food program would mean that all students could access a meal at school, which we know is important to overall physical and mental health, as well as success in learning. A national program could contribute to our communities in so many ways—imagine schools supporting local farmers by buying local produce to serve in salad bars at affordable prices, with opportunities for students to grow and prepare some of the food they’ll get to eat for lunch. Priceless!

The organization of the GBC across the Valley was certainly a community and collaborative

with Ron Hayes

Congratulations to everyone who participated. What a tasty way to raise your voice for school food!

❧ Sarah Mullen is a Public Health Nutritionist and member of the Kings County Community Food Council. The Council’s vision is to have a sustainable, local food system in Kings County, where everyone has access to enough nutritious, safe, ecological, and culturally-appropriate food. For more information on our work and how you can get involved please contact us! info@KCCFoodCouncil.ca.

KINGS COUNTY PROJECTS TO RECEIVE FEDERAL PUBLIC SPACES FUNDING Kings County will benefit from investments to help bring people back to public spaces safely Submitted

The Government of Canada is fueling community revitalization and creating the conditions for local economies to thrive as they rebound from the effects of COVID-19 Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity, and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

On March 7, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants, announced total investments of $219,254.50 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for five projects in the Kings County area. “The Canada Community Revitalization Fund helps organizations renovate and improve important gathering spaces for our communities,” Blois says “After a difficult two years that hampered the ability for these organizations to fundraise, I’m proud that our government is stepping in to help ensure we can get back to the community events and activities we all enjoy.”

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The CCRF was launched in June 2021. The Fund provides $500 million over two years

New Art Classes

effort. The Kings County Community Food Council, the Community Health Boards in West Hants, Kings, and Annapolis County, Scotian Gold, the Farm-to-School Snack Program, and of course the 12+ schools that participated, all contributed to promoting the event, getting apples to the participating schools, and getting local politicians involved.

Recently, two local municipalities even signed on as official endorsers of the Coalition for Healthy School Food: the Town of Annapolis Royal and the Town of Berwick added their voices to over 180 non-profits and government bodies across the country that endorse the guiding principles of the Coalition for Healthy School Food.

to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. As public health restrictions ease, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener, and more accessible. This in turn will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

The CCRF funding will support two major streams of activity: to adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public health guidelines, and to build or improve community spaces to encourage Canadians to re-engage in, and explore their communities and regions.

Eligible recipients will include not-for-profit organizations; rural, municipal or regional governments; Indigenous groups and communities; and public sector bodies that provide municipal-type infrastructure. Priority may be given to projects that encourage the participation of underrepresented groups and take into consideration the unique challenges of rural and remote communities. For more information on the application process, eligibility criteria and eligible expenses, or to apply for the CCRF, reach out to your regional development agency. Canada’s regional development agencies are continuing to deliver targeted support for economic recovery in the region. Application intake is open through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency for the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, Jobs and Growth Fund, Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative and Tourism Relief Fund.

❧

Offering a variety of swag: sweaters, tees and more Crystany’s Brasserie 9848 Main Street, Canning 902-582-3663 CrystanysBrasserie.com

April 2022 | 13

Screen capture from the iNaturalist website. The mourning cloak hibernates in the winter months and is often observed in early spring; I challenge you to find and submit this species during the 2022 City Nature Challenge!

WHAT’S GROWING AT THE HARRIET IRVING BOTANICAL GARDENS Samuel Jean, Conservation & Education Assistant We need your help! Participate in the 2022 City Nature Challenge between April 29 and May 2 to help showcase the Annapolis Valley’s biodiversity.

HOURS

T,W,TH,F: 10am-5pm Saturday: 9:30am-4pm Sunday: noon-4pm Monday: closed WOLFV ILLE FAR MER SM AR K E T.CA

ET K C I T Y A W EA GIV CHANCE TO WIN 2 TICKETS TO: Spring Ceilidh Dance Louis Millet Centre, New Minas. Sat., April 9, 6–9pm Draw date: Apr. 5. Enter all draws: valleyevents.ca/win

Initiated by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the California Academy of Sciences in 2016, the City Nature Challenge (CNC) quickly became an international event. During this annual four-day global bioblitz, participating cities and regions are encouraged to gather the most nature observations, find the most species, and engage the most people. In 2021, more than 1 million nature observations were made, and over 45,000 species were recorded by close to 53,000 participants.

Over 360 cities and regions will be participating in the challenge this year. Those participating in Nova Scotia are the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, the Halifax Regional Municipality, and Kings and Annapolis counties. More details about the CNC can be found here: citynaturechallenge.org.

To participate, create your iNaturalist account, find a living creature (plant, fungus, insect, worm, snail, spider, crustacea, bird, mammal, reptile, amphibian, or fish), take a picture or a sound recording of it, and share your observation through iNaturalist. Evidence of the presence of an organism also counts (nests, eggs, prints, droppings, etc.). If you are not

sure about the identification of the species you are looking at, don’t worry, once your observation is uploaded, other naturalists will be able to suggest identifications. Note that observations can be submitted either with your smartphone through the iNaturalist app or with your computer through the iNaturalist website (iNaturalist.org). iNaturalist is a great tool for learning about the organisms that live around you, connect with other naturalists, and share your knowledge. Submitted data is added to a global database and can help scientists understand how the ranges of native species expand, locate threatened species, and detect the presence of invasive ones. It can also help scientists understand how plant and animal populations change over time and detect new migration patterns or change in blooming and breeding periods.

An introduction to iNaturalist session will be happening in the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens on Friday April 29. Please confirm your presence by sending me an email to samuel.jean@acadiau.ca, and keep an eye on the News and Events section of the K.C.Irving Environmental Science Centre website for more details (kcirvingcentre.acadiau.ca/ about/news-events/).

Now, get outside and have fun observing and identifying!

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RAINE HAMILTON STRING TRIO: A FREE COMMUNITY CONCERT Submitted

The Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre are celebrating being able to once again bring amazing talent to our community by hosting a FREE community concert! Join us on April 1 at 7:30pm as we welcome the incredibly talented Raine Hamilton String Trio to our stage.

Raine is part prairie songstress, part storyweaver. Each song has a story, delivered between songs with humour and grace.

Raine invites deep love of the violin into the singer-songwriter genre, writing for violin and voice, as well as for guitar and voice.

Joined by cello and upright bass, expect string arrangements that push and pull, that move as they console. The trio’s resonant, acoustic chamber folk has an otherworldly edge, and a lyric presence that cuts deep. Prism-clear vocals and strings are anchored in the ancient mountains, reaching out beyond the earthly.

Art is for everyone, music is for everyone.

Raine often performs alongside an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, making their concerts accessible to the Deaf community.

Raine is also great with kids: ask them about

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Photo courtesy of Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre

their songwriting workshops.

Raine Hamilton String Trio April 1, 7:30pm Mermaid Imperial Performing Arts Centre 106 Gerrish Street Windsor, NS Reserve your seat by emailing puppets@mermaidtheatre.ca.

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APRIL SHOWERS AND MAY FLOWERS IN THE GARDEN ROOM Janet Kirkconnell

Barring the resurgence of the darkening clouds of Covid, which have blotted out most of the Sunday Music in the Garden Room concerts in the past couple of years, the month of April will bring not only showers, but Sunday afternoon classical performances to the Garden Room of the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre on the Acadia campus. After the drought of the last months, a veritable downpour of concerts will be presented, beginning with four in a row, April 10 to May 1, led by three pianists, with a fifth and final concert for the 2021-22 season on May 29.

On April 10, Jeddore native Cindy Thong will play works by Brahms, Schumann, Liszt, and Australian composer Carl Vine. Thong is the winner of numerous piano competitions and recipient of the 2009 Debut Atlantic Award for Musical Excellence and the 2018 Tietje Zonnefeld Award from the Nova Scotia Talent Trust, and is currently sharing her broad and impressive education with piano students in Acadia’s School of Music as an Applied Instructor.

Quebec pianist Jean-Luc Therrien (on a Debut Atlantic tour), was named one of Canada’s 30 hot classical musicians under 30 for 2020 by CBC Music, and will be heard on April 17 with a program of Jacques Hétu, Debussy, Liszt, David McIntyre, and Prokofiev.

American pianist Spencer Myer is the first of the final three concerts which are return

engagements: artists heard in the past in Sunday Music in the Garden Room. This outstanding musician, at present Visiting Assistant Professor of Piano at Indiana University Bloomington’s Jacobs School of Music, will bring works by Beethoven, Lilly Larsen, Debussy, and Chopin on April 24.

Topping off this first spurt is the William Marshall Bishop Memorial Concert on May 1 with meagan&amy, a violin and piano duo from Saskatchewan, by way of Montreal, which we had the great pleasure of hearing on a Debut Atlantic tour in 2019. Their program consists of works by Florence Price, Mozart, David McIntyre, Saint-Saens, Marjan Mozetich, Lili Boulanger, John Adams, and Dinuk Wijeratne.

On May 29, the second set of Debut Atlantic alumni on a return visit this season is the stunning Bouey-Doucet Duo: violinist Christina Bouey, a P.E.I. native, now based in New York City (her string quartet, the Ulysses, also heard in the Garden Room two years ago), and pianist Pierre-André Doucet from Moncton.

They will give the inaugural Carole and Christopher Olsen Memorial Concert.

❧ Further info: artsacadia.acadiau.ca Concerts begin at 2pm.

Admittance free. Covid precautions.

COMMUNITY DISCUSSION WILL TACKLE INCREASING ENERGY COSTS

Panel to explore alternative solutions to increasing power rates Submitted

Those concerned about the rising cost of electricity are invited to participate in a free Zoom discussion of community-based options for generating renewable energy to help stabilize power rates. A knowledgeable panel of individuals will kick off the community discussion by outlining different approaches to delivering domestic energy which can be managed at the local level and save money for residents.

to lower power rates? The audience will be encouraged to comment and ask questions of panel members.

Erin Patterson, small business owner and Head of Research Services at Acadia University, will facilitate the virtual discussion on April 20, from 7:00-8:30pm. Panel members will include:

Join the discussion free via ZOOM, April 20, 7:00pm – 8:30pm.

The community discussion is being organized by the Kings North NDP. It is the first of proposed future discussions focused on such topics as food security, affordable housing, child poverty and the climate emergency from a local community perspective.

For more information and to register go to tinyurl.com/kingsnorthndp.

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• William Marshall, Partner, Equilibrium Engineering and renewable energy specialist and consultant to the Town of Berwick for their innovative green energy projects.

• Erika Shea, CEO, New Dawn Enterprises, a community development corporation developing a solar garden to provide energy thereby converting an 80-acre residential and commercial property to net zero.

• Gurprasad Gurumurthy, Energy Coordinator, Renewables and Electricity for the Ecology Action Centre.

• Claudia Chender, MLA and NDP energy spokesperson.

The panel discussion will consider the question “Increasing power costs: is community-generated energy the answer?” The discussion will consider solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects that can be initiated and controlled on a community level. How can this be done and is it worth the investment? Will this solution provide longterm sustainability?

Nova Scotian communities are prioritizing green projects. For example, the Towns of Berwick, Mahone Bay, and Antigonish are collaborating partners in the Alternative Resource Energy Authority (AREA) to develop wind farms and solar gardens. Others are considering similar projects. Will this lead April 2022 | 15

KODY BLOIS Proudly serving as your Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants 902-542-4010 kody.blois@parl.gc.ca 101-24 Harbourside Drive, NS B4P 2C1

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