Tuesday 31 May 2011

What's Happening In Cape Breton

Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The Big Fiddle Market - Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion - Sydney - All Day
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
Andrew Doyle - Riley's Lounge - Sydney - 6pm
Labryinth - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
Finale of Next Big Thing; Cape Breton's High School Talent Search - Boardmore Theatre (CBU) - Sydney - 7pm
Bobby Currie & Mike Wadden - Riley's Lounge - Sydney - 9pm
Guitar Jam - Royal Canadian Legion - Cheticamp - 9pm
Open Mike Night with Mike Lelievre - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 9pm

Monday 30 May 2011

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

May 30th:

Inverness-ICCA Arts Centre: #16080 Hwy #19: 902-258-2533 & 902-258-3212-'Show Off Students' art show

Louisdale-St.Louis Parish Hall: 11:30am to 2pm - hot turkey dinner-Baraco Days-Annual Community Festival

New Waterford-Credit Union: 3462 Plummer Ave.: 902-862-6453:
3pm to 5pm - An art show about the Baby Boom by Diane Lewis

North Shore-Gaelic Cultural Centre & Gaelic Singers Hall : 45033 Cabot Trail Road: 929-2011:9:30am to 2:30pm - Gaelic Immersion Regular Classes; @$ 10 a day, tea & treats included

Port Hawkesbury-Civic Centre-J. Franklin Wright Gallery: 606 Reeves St.: 902-625-7891: 4pm to 10pm - #5th annual Student Art Exhibit 2011

Sydney-C.B. Centre for Craft & Design Gallery: 322 Charlotte St.: 902-539-7491: 'Flotsam & Jetsam' ; with Shari MacLeod, Jayme Burns, Katherine Scott

Saturday 28 May 2011

Louisbourg Seafest

If you like seafood and great entertainment you will want to make a trip to Louisbourg as they invites visitors and locals alike to take part in this years Seafest on June 3rd and 4th.
On June 3rd, events will run from 9am until 1pm, which will include a concert(no charge) featuring the Privateers at the Louisbourg Fire Hall. The Seafest will definitely satisfy your taste buds and wet your whistle with Buckets of Mussels and Buckets of Beer. And for an evening of the best lobster available fresh from the sea, make a reservation at the Point of View Suites in Louisbourg for a Lobster Dinner. Reservations must be made by 3pm by calling 1-902-733-2080, the dinner will begin at 6pm.

June 4th: there will be a Fishcake Breakfast (time to be announced). From 10am to 11:30am a Gardening Workshop on "Learn How To Plant Your Summer Garden", will take place at the Fire Hall in Louisbourg on. The seafood spectactular continues at lunch time when seafood lovers can enjoy delicious preperations from the sea. There will be Seafood chowder at Kersey's Bistro, Seafood crepes at the Station House Restaurant and seafood specialities served up at the Lobster Kettle Restaurant. At 1pm, get ready to enjoy some great live entertainment with Lee Price.

At 2pm to 4pm, The Snowbirds will thrill audiences as they fly over Louisbourg Harbour. What a sight that will be! And visitors to Louisbourg will be able to take wagon rides throughout the town. Visitors will again be able to enjoy a fresh from the sea lobster dinner (29.95 plus tax) from 6 to 8pm at the Point of View Suites. Reservation for the dinner must be made by 3pm by calling 1-902-733-2080.
Louisbourg. Those who enjoy Karaoke will want to come out to the Louisbourg Legion, as Karaoke begins at 9pm and runs until. This is sure to be two fun filled day of events in the lovely seafaring community of Louisbourg.

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Saturday, May 28, 2011
Transformation Through Sound - North Star Inn - North Sydney - May 28 Cape Breton Farmer's Market - Coxheath - 8:30am
The Ocean Waves Quilt Society of Cape Breton AGM - Civic Centre - Port Hawkesbury - 9am
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
Downtown Sydney Farmers Market - St. Andrew's Hall - Sydney - 1pm
Fundraiser for Mary Sparrow - Radio Club - Glace Bay - 2pm
Kenneth MacKenzie - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 2pm
Local Musicians play John Prine Tunes - Shindigs Pub - Port Hawkesbury - 4pm
Andrew Doyle & Cory Keeping - Blue Mist Bar & Gril - Little Bras d'Or - 5pm
Dan McCarthy & friends - Steel City - Sydney - 5pm
The Pub Boys - Main Event - Glace Bay - 5pm
Bi-Weekly Jam Session - Hillsboro Hall - Hillsboro - 7pm
Cape Breton Summertime Revue 2011 - Savoy Theatre - Glace Bay - 8pm
Deron Donovan - Riley's Lounge - Sydney - 8pm
Rumours - Crown & Moose - Sydney - 8:30pm
Savanna - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 9pm
Karaoke - Blue Mist Bar & Gril - Little Bras d'Or - 9:30pm
Round & Square Dance - West Mabou Hall - 10pm
Two floors of Tunes & Beats - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 10pm
Bandit - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 10:30pm

Friday 27 May 2011

A Culinary Adventure Comes to Cape Breton!

Have You Heard About The Culinary Event "Right Some Good"?
This is a world class event that can offer our top class local chefs and culinary students an opportunity of a lifetime. Chefs have the chance to showcase local cuisine, culinary stories and team up with world class chefs. This Foody Adventure will be taking place in locations around Cape Breton including the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique, the Orangedale Train Station in Orangedale and the St. Peter's Canal, from August 25th to September 4th. This major event will bring attention to Cape Breton from around the world. For chefs to be able to work under thee very best chefs in the world are like dying and going to heaven only in this case its Cape Breton as close to heaven as one can get. International chefs who will be taking part are: Chef Alvin Leung, Hong Kong, Chef Geoff Lindsay, Australia, Chef Vincent Masson, Belgium, Chef Frank Widmer, Switzerland, Chef Javier Vargas Guimaray, Peru, Chef Serge Knapp, France, Chef Carlos Piernas, Spain,Chef Robert Clark, Canada, Chef Christopher Coutanceau, France, Chef Jill Davie, United States. Now this is what we call an experience. Just being able to work with these masters, witness their talent, bask in their knowledge chefs and learn from their example; and all this will be happening in Cape Breton.
This event is open to local Cape Breton chefs and culinary student chefs, but the dead line for applications are quickly approaching, don't wait, this opportunity may never come your way again.
For more information on how to apply, where the venues will be,and on tickets for attending these amazing events, go to RightSomeGood.ca. Tickets are $50.00 to $150.00depending on the venue.

Thursday 26 May 2011

Cindy Penney's Oatcakes


I met Cindy at the Saltscapes Travel Expo in Halifax the end of April and I offered her a Cape Breton Oatcake which we brought to treat our visitors at the show. Cindy loved our oatcake, but told me that she made oatcakes at home that were really good too. So I asked her to send me her recipe and I would post it on the blog for all of you to try. If any of you have a recipe for oatcakes I am always interest to try it, and I will pass it along to my readers. By the way Cindy your oatcakes are delicious!

Oatcakes
Prep Time 15-20 minutes
Baking Time 20 minutes
Makes ~2 dozen

3C old fashioned oats (quick oats are fine)
3C flour
1C sugar, white or brown
2 tsp salt (optional)
1 tsp baking soda
1 1/2C lard (margarine or butter is fine)
2/3C water

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Rub or cut in the lard using hands or pastry blender. Slowly add just enough water to moisten. Stir with a knife.
4. Shape into 2 balls and chill for 10 minutes.
5. Pat each ball onto a floured surface and roll to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shape.
6. Place on lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
7. Transfer to a rack to cool.

* I like mine a little thicker and just a little underbaked so they are chewy rather than crispy.

Tuesday 24 May 2011

Who Will Be Next to Join the 2011/12 Clipper Around the World Race

The Edinburgh Inspiring Capital is the latest addition to The Clipper Around the World Race 11/12. The Edinburgh Inspiring Capital will return for the challenge as it makes a second appearance in the clipper Race after debuting during clipper 09-10 Race. Gordon Reid will take to the helm as Skipper of the Edinburgh Ispiring Capital.
The Clipper will join a truly international challenge with the following entries in the race so far: the De Lage Landen, Singapore, Visit Finland, Qingdao and Derry-Londonderry. This just leaves 4 more clippers to be announced in the coming days. I will be updating you on future entries as soon as they become available.
The fleet will travel to 14 ports on six continents during their year long voyage. The journey will begin in Southampton and take the teams to Madeira, Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town, to both the west and east coasts of Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Qingdao, California, New York, Nova Scotia, Derry-Londonderry and the Netherlands before returning to the south coast of England on the final leg on July 22, 2012.

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
Andrew Doyle - Riley's Lounge - Sydney - 6pm
Joe Costello - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
Next Big Thing; Cape Breton's High School Talent Search Top 10 Show - Boardmore Theatre (CBU) - Sydney - 7pm
Cape Breton Summertime Revue 2011 - Savoy Theatre - Glace Bay - 8pm
Bobby Currie & Mike Wadden - Riley's Lounge - Sydney - 9pm
Guitar Jam - Royal Canadian Legion - Cheticamp - 9pm
Open MiKe Night with Mike Lelievre - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 9pm
Jerry Stamp & Nick Faye - The Upstairs Club - Sydney - 10:30pm

Sunday 22 May 2011

Bras d'Or Lakes Inn Hosts Wine and Food Pairing

Event: Wine and Food Pairing
Featuring Italy
Location: The Bras d'Or Lakes Inn in St. Peter's
Date: Saturday, June 18, 2011
Time: 7:00 pm
Reservations Required
Call: 902-535-2200
Tickets: $89.95 + taxes per person

Wine paired by Bishop's Cellar

Wine and Food Pairing Menu: First Course: Anti-Pasti
(Family style)

Feuillette – Puff pastry filled with
Anchovy paste & Olive Tapenade

Fresh Roma tomato Bruschetta, served on
in house Artisanbasil Focaccia Bread with Fontina cheese

Fresh Fig, toasted Almond, home made Mozzarella
wrapped with Prosciutto, parcelled with Apricot Marmalade

Marinated Beef tenderloin Carpaccio with Caper Vinaigrette

Salad
(Composed Salad)

Organic mix greens & Mache greens
Rosemary marinated Bocconcini Cheese
Sweet and sour flavoured Beets
Pistachio nut
Mandarin vinaigrette
Grape fruit
Scallions

Third Course: Meat
(Rotisseria)

Rotisserie cooked Veal Loin with Marsala Sauce
Grilled wild Mushroom Polenta
White Truffle oil
Sautéed Swiss Chard

Fourth Course
(Palate Cleanser)

Blood Orange & Grappa Sorbet

Fifth Course: Main
(Pasta Course)

Home made Lobster Raviolis with
braised Leek & Mascarpone Cheese
Pommery Mustard & Lemon Sauce
Sage crisp
Eggplant baked with Parmesan
Caviar
Roasted Red Pepper
Paprika and Chili Oil

Sixth Course: Dessert Trio
(garnished with Grilled Pineapple)

Homemade Raspberry Gelato infused with
Star Anise & Sambuca
Tiramisu
Amaretto Flambéed Bananas


Above served with
House made Ciabatta Bread
plus Dipping Sauces:
Porcini and White Truffle Sauce
Extra virgin Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Sunday, May 22, 2011
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
Sunday Ceilidh with Kinnon & Betty Beaton - Celtic Music Centre - Judique - 3pm
Kitchen Racket - MacBouch Restaurant & Lounge - St. Peter's - 4pm
Celtic Folk Musician John Ferguson - Kitju's - Membertou - 6pm
Cash Karaoke - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 8pm
Open Pool Tournament with Karaoke - Main Event - Glace Bay - 8pm

Saturday 21 May 2011

Two New Events Make Up New Cape Breton Festival



The new and exciting Cape Breton Heritage Festival, which has events taking place from June 3rd to June 11th, will be the kick-off to this years tourism season. Events Manager John Fraser stated the the organizers are excited to celebrate both Cape Breton's strong military heritage and it's rich and diverse culture. The festival will including a military-themed weekend and a multicultural-themed weekend with venues scheduled for around the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. The festival begins on June 3rd in the community of Louisbourg with a Mussel Fest at the Louisbourg Volunteer Fire Department. Visitors will be able to enjoy a delicious feast of mussels while being entertained by the Privateers. Events continue in Louisbourg on Saturday June 4th with horse-drawn wagon rides, costumed animators and lots more fun filled events throughout the community.

Also on Saturday, June 4th, the Sydney Waterfront will have lots of events planned at the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion as it hosts the HMCS Moncton and HMCS Summerside navy vessels for public viewings, a mini tattoo event, and visitors and locals alike will enjoy the great entertainment of the Stadacona Band at the events free concert.

On Saturday,June 4th and Sunday, June 5th, the attention shifts to the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport as all eyes turn to the skies as the airshow begins. A complete list of events are as follows.

Cape Breton Air Show
Saturday, 04 June 2011, 10:00am - 05:00pm

J.A Douglas McCurdy (Sydney) Airport
Sydney-Glace Bay Highway

Air Show:

Gates open at 10:00am

12:30pm:
Canadian Forces Parachute Team, SkyHawks, open Air Show with Flag Drop
Search and Rescue Demo (including Hercules aircraft, Cormorant helicopter and SAR Techs)
CF-18 Aerial Demo
Canadian Forces SkyHawks Parachute Team - full team aerial demo
Aurora Aerial Demo
Sea King Helicopter Aerial Demo

3:00pm:

Canadian Forces Snowbirds - full aerobatic demo

ALL DAY:
Aircraft displays - CF-18, Aurora and Sea King Helicopters, Department of Natural Resource Helicopters, Civil Air Search and Rescue Cessna, Air Cadet Glider
Armed Ground Forces weapons display
A WWII Re-enactment
Free rides to the public on the Canadian Army's Light Armored Vehicles (LAVIII)!

Tickets:
$10 per Person
$30 for a Family of Five (Maximum 2 Adults)
Tickets are good for one day only.

Purchase Air Show tickets at any Marks Work Wearhouse location in Atlantic Canada.

One of the highlights of the weekend will be a Hero’s Hall, where current and past members of the Canadian Forces will be gathering to share stories.

The following weekend,June 10th and 11th, the festival will continue with the “Roots and Food Festival – A Multicultural Celebration” taking place at Centre 200 in Sydney. The festivities will begin on Friday evening with a concert featuring Shelley Hamilton "African Nova Scotian Music Association’s Artist of the Year", along with Colin Grant, the Awakening Souls youth choir, and many more.

On Saturday, Centre 200 will take center stage with cultural performances and displays from the various communities represented within the Multicultural Council of Cape Breton. One of the highlights of the event will be a sampling of spectactular foods from around the world, that visitors will have the opportunity to sample and purchase. What a great way to celebrate our variety of cultures. According to Fraser, “The economic impact of these events on the local economy will be substantial as we boost the June shoulder season.”
What a great idea for a festival, and what a way to celebrate our island heritage. This is a festival that can be enjoyed by our visitors as well as our residents, so come on out and start the season of right.

Friday 20 May 2011

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Friday, May 20, 2011
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Ernie Wells - Rollie's Wharf - North Sydney - 5pm
Kelly's Brew - JT's Pub - New Waterford - 5pm
Sheldon Aucoin - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 5:30pm
After Work Party with Will's Addiction - Governors Pub - Sydney - 6pm
Rumours - Main Event Lounge - Glace Bay - 6pm
Roadies - Riley's Lounge - Sydney - 8pm
Andrew Doyle - Crown & Moose - Sydney - 8:30pm
Eddie & Dan - Rollie's Wharf - North Sydney - 9pm
Evening of Eviltronica - The Upstairs - Sydney - 10pm
Hat Trick - Steel City - Sydney - 10pm
Bad Habits - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 10:30pm
Scientists of Sound - Governors Pub - Sydney - 11pm

View of Richmond

The 2011 Canadian Nationals Racquetball Championships are coming to Antigonish and Port Hawkesbury. These are the first Racquetball Nationals to be held in Nova Scotia since 1979. The Championships will take place at the Racquetball courts in both locations; in Antinonish at St. F X Universary and in Port Hawkesbury at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre from May 22 to 28th. The first competitions will be starting at 8am on May 22th. For the first time ever participants will be able to enter two same gender doubles (one age division and one skill division, or one gender doubles and one mixed doubles). The Championships will take in a number of dividisons, Men's Singles, Men's Age Singles, Women's Singles, Women's Age Singles, Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles. This should be quite a Championship with anticipation of lots of action taking place on the courts and off the courts as well, as there are lots of events planned for the partipicant's enjoyment. Event Director for this event is Daniel Smith. For this championship the Ball is Ektelon Classic Black and the event is sanctioned by Racquetball Canada. Start up times for first round matches will be available on line at http:/racquetballchampionships.ca after 7pm on Saturday May 21st. For any particant that does not have internet access, the information will be available by calling 1-902-483-2499. From all reports the organizers are expecting an excellent turnout.
Entertainment on the local scene:
On May 21st, a Musicial Jamboree will take place at the Rocky Bay Community Hall featuring the tremendous talent of J.P. Cormier and friends. A silver collection will be taken at the door. Must be 19+ to attend.
There will be a Merchandise Bingo held at the Tara Lynne Centre in River Bourgeois on May 22 starting at 2pm.
The Kitchen Racket's open jam session will take place on Sunday, May 22 from 4 pm - 7pm at the MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge on Grenville Street, St. Peter's. No cover charge, bring your instrument along or just come and enjoy the music.
Mark May 25th on your calendar for an evening of enjoyment, as you take in the Musicial Production of Annie Jr. The budding young stars of the East Richmond Education Center will take to the stage as they bring this rendition of Annie to life. The production starts at 6pm. Admission is $5.00. Come out and support the hard work and committment of these talented young artists and their instructor.

Thursday 19 May 2011

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Thursday, May 19, 2011
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Historian, author and guest speaker Elder Dr. Daniel Paul - Wagmatcook Culture & Heritage Centre - 10am
Babies and Books - McConnell Library - Sydney - 12pm
The Big Fiddle Market - Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion -Sydney - 1pm
Alicia Penney - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
Savour Food & Wine Show - Membertou Trade and Convention Centre - Membertou - 7pm
Talent Night - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 8pm
Traditional Music & Ceilidh - Rollie’s Wharf - North Sydney - 8pm
Shindigs Idol - Shindigs Pub - Port Hawkesbury - 9pm
Guitar Sessions with Andrew Greig, Joe Costello, Rob Miller, Mike Fagan - Governors Pub - Sydney - 10pm

Wednesday 18 May 2011

Summer Events at The Fortress of Louisbourg



Thousands of visitors travel to Louisbourg each year to visit the National Historic Site at the Fortress of Louisbourg. Visitors can step back in time and witness first-hand life in the 18th century. Not only can the visitor experience the day to day life of this period, but they can also experience a line up of special events scheduled throughout the summer. The following are a list of these events. This summer let the road lead you to Louisbourg and experience a bit of history.

100 years, Come celebrate! / 100 ans, Soyez de la fête!

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
2011 Events


Canada Day: July 1st
Celebrate Canada Day at the Fortress of Louisbourg with free admission on this day! 2011 also marks the 50th anniversary of the reconstruction of the fortified town--there’s no better time or place to explore our nation’s history!

Parks Day: July 16th
Celebrate Parks Day with free admission to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, and join us as we celebrate the life and accomplishments of Marie Marguerite Rose, a person of National Historic Significance who arrived in Louisbourg as a slave but became a successful tavern owner.

Feast of Saint Anne: July 26th
The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site celebrates the Feast of Saint Anne with the signing of a special hymn, a celebratory artillery salute and a procession through the streets—all this in addition to our regular daily schedule of events.

Also on this day: Conquer the Fortress... on your bicycle. A relaxed interpreted bike ride with lunch on site. Contact Monique Cantin , monique.cantin@pc.gc.ca

Storm the Fortress: July 31st
5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Ride your bike into the Fortress of Louisbourg and prepare to be entertained the 18th century way. For tickets, consult the Fortress of Louisbourg Association website at www.fortressoflouisbourg.com or call 733-2280 ext. 3436.

Race Through Time : August 13th
Beginning at the George D Lewis School in Louisbourg, participants will run an 8 mile race between two towns 267 years apart. An awards ceremony and dinner will follow at the school at 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 733-3552.

Public Archaeology: August 15th to 26th
Get down and dirty in our Public Archaeology Program. For information, call 733-2280, ext. 3436 or e-mail info@fortressoflouisbourg.ca.

Feast of Saint Louis: August 25th
Join our annual celebrations on the feast day of Saint Louis! In addition to our daily offering, we will have special food presentations, military demonstrations, upper-class dancing and a procession through the streets of the fortified town of Louisbourg.

Dinner theatre and Murder Mystery tour: July and August
Visitors can also experience the Fortress at night during the popular after hours Dinner Theatre and Murder Mystery Tours hosted Wednesdays and Thursdays in July and August. For information, call 733-2280, ext. 3436 or e-mail info@fortressoflouisbourg.ca.

Geocaching: All year
The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site launched into the world of geocaching. Discover even more hidden treasures --a whole new way to see the Fortress! Seven geocaches are to be found! For more information consult our web site at: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/louisbourg/activ/activ11.aspx







Forteresse de Louisbourg

2011 événements

Fête du Canada: 1er Juillet
Célébrez la fête du Canada a la Forteresse de Louisbourg, avec entrée gratuite à ce jour! 2011 marque également le 50e anniversaire de la reconstruction de la ville fortifié - il n'y a pas de meilleur moment ou lieu pour explorer l'histoire de notre nation!

Journée des parcs: 16 Juillet
Célébrez la Journée des parcs, avec entrée gratuite à la Forteresse de Louisbourg, et joindre à nous pour célébrer la vie et les réalisations de Marie Marguerite Rose, une personne d'importance historique nationale qui a arrivés à Louisbourg comme un esclave, mais est devenu un propriétaire de taverne.

Fête de Sainte-Anne: 26 Juillet
La Forteresse de Louisbourg célèbre la fête de sainte Anne avec un hymne spécial, une salve d'artillerie de fête et une procession dans les rues, tout cela en plus de notre horaire quotidien régulier des activités.

Aussi ce jour-là: la conquête de la forteresse ... sur votre vélo. Un détendue interprété en vélo avec diner sur place. Contact Monique Cantin , monique.cantin@pc.gc.ca

Storm the Fortress: 31 Juillet
17:00-20:00 Conduits votre motocyclette dans la Forteresse de Louisbourg et prépare à se divertir de la manière du 18e siècle. Pour obtenir des billets, ou d'informations sur leurs autres activités, consulter l'Association de la forteresse de Louisbourg a www.fortressoflouisbourg.com, ou composez le 902-733-2280 ext. 3436.

Course à travers le temps: 13 août
Début à l'école George D Lewis à Louisbourg, les participants se déroulera une course de 8 mile entre deux villes 267 années d'intervalle. Une cérémonie et le dîner suivra à l'école à 20:30. Pour de plus amples renseignements, composez le 733-3552.

Archéologie publique: 15 au 26 août
D'archéologie publique: descendre et sale dans notre programme d'archéologie publique. Pour plus d'informations, composez le 733-2280, poste. 3436 ou info@fortressoflouisbourg.ca.

Fête de Saint Louis: 25 août
Joignez-vous à nos célébrations annuelles de la fête de Saint Louis! En plus de notre offre de tous les jours, nous aurons des présentations de nourriture spéciale, des démonstrations militaires, de la danse de la haute classe et une procession dans les rues de la ville fortifiée de Louisbourg.

Juillet et août:
Théâtre souper et visite mystère Assassiner: Les visiteurs peuvent également découvrir la forteresse de la nuit au cours de la populaire après les heures de souper-théâtre et Assassiner Mystery Tours a organisé mercredi et jeudi en Juillet et Août. Pour plus d’information composez le 733-2280, ext. 3436 ou info@fortressoflouisbourg.ca.


Toute l'année:
Geocachette: La forteresse de Louisbourg a lancé dans le monde du géocaching. Découvrez encore plus de trésors cachés - une toute nouvelle façon de voir la forteresse! Sept caches se trouvent! Pour plus d’information consultex notre site a http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/louisbourg/activ/activ11.aspx

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Annual Ride of Silence - SuperStore - Sydney River - 6:30pm
Wednesday Night Black Light Beats - Club 418 - Sydney - 9pm
Karoake - Steel City - Sydney - 10pm

Tourism in Richmond County

The 2011 Canadian Nationals Racquetball Championships are coming to Antigonish and Port Hawkesbury. These are the first Racquetball Nationals to be held in Nova Scotia since 1979. The Champsonships will take place at the Racquetball courts in both locations, in Antinonish at St. F X Universary and in Port Hawkesbury at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre from May 22 to 28th. The first competitions will be starting at 8am on May 22th. For the first time ever participants will be able to enter two same gender doubles (one age division and one skill division, or one gender doubles and one mixed doubles). The Championships will take in a number of dividisons, Men's Singles, Men's Age Singles, Women's Singles, Women's Age Singles, Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles. This should be quite a Championship with anticipation of lots of action taking place on the courts and off the courts as well, as there are lots of events planned for the partipicant's enjoyment. Event Director for this event is Daniel Smith. For this championship the Ball is Ektelon Classic Black and the event is sanctioned by Racquetball Canada. Start up times for first round matches will be available on line at http:/racquetballchampionships.ca after 7pm on Saturday May 21st. For any particant that does not have internet access, the information will be available by calling 1-902-483-2499. From all reports the organizers are expecting an excellent turnout.
Entertainment on the local scene: On May 21st, a Musicial Jamboree will take place at the Rocky Bay Community Hall featuring the tremdious talent of J.P. Cormier and friends. A silver collection will be taken at the door. Must be 19+ to attend.
There will be a Merchandise Bingo held at the Tara Lynne Centre in River Bourgeois on May 22 starting at 2pm.
Mark May 25th on your calendar for an evening of enjoyment, as you take in the Musicial Production of Annie Jr. The budding young stars of the East Richmond Education Center will take to the stage as they bring this rendition of Annie to life. The production starts at 6pm. Admission is $5.00. Come out and support the hard work and committment of these talented young artists and their instructor.
Until next week, I hope you have the opportunity to take in some of the great entertainment in Richmond.

Tuesday 17 May 2011

Kitchen Rackets at MacBouch

News has just arrived at my desk from the organizers of Kitchen Rackets, and I want to pass it along. The Kitchen Rackets are such a important part of our area, as it draws a good number of visitors during the season, to stop and enjoy the great
traditional music and our very talented local entertainers. It also gives visitors the opportunity to take part in the experience, they are welcome to join in with the group of entertainers or just sit and listen. So I hope you will stop in and join the gang at MacBouch's Restaurant and Lounge and enjoy the entertainment.


Hello Kitchen Rackets Fans:
You are invited to our next open jam session: please note the new day and time for this Sunday session on the upcoming long weekend!

Sunday, May 22, 4 pm - 7pm
at the MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge
Grenville St., St. Peter's

All are welcome. No cover charge. Meet all kinds of players and singers, for all kinds of music. This is an accoustic jam, but if you need an amp for a keyboard or bass guitar please bring it along. We also have a sound system with a single mic for singers and solos. We are looking forward to seeing the old gang and any newbies who want to join in.
Please pass the word along, and feel free to forward this email to anyone you know who might be interested in attending to play or listen!
Thanks again to the folks at MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge for hosting this event!

For further information please contact:
Greg Silver
Tel: 902 535 3990
Cel: 902 631 5050
gsilver@cdg.ns.ca

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Tuesday, May 17, 2011
The Big Fiddle Market - Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion - Sydney - All Day
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Positive Aging Series: Container Gardening - McConnell Library - Sydney - 1pm
Jay Smith - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
Gaelic Society presents an Evening of Celtic Music - St. George's Church - Sydney - 6:30pm
Next Big Thing; Cape Breton's High School Talent Search SEMIFINALS NIGHT 2 - Boardmore Theatre (CBU) - Sydney - 7pm
Atlantic Book Awards Event - McConnell Library - Sydney - 7pm
Guitar Jam - Royal Canadian Legion - Cheticamp - 9pm
Open MiKe Night with Mike Lelievre - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 9pm

Monday 16 May 2011

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Monday, May 16, 2011
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Next Big Thing; Cape Breton's High School Talent Search Semifinals Night 1 - Boardmore Theatre (CBU) - Sydney - 7pm

Sunday 15 May 2011

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Sunday, May 15, 2011
Join Velo CB in Kelly's Klimb (retry) - Kelly's Mountain - 8:30am
Country Breakfast - St. Georges Channel Community Hall - 9am
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
Robin Hood - CBU Boardmore Playhouse - Sydney - 2pm
Riverdale Jamboree - Riverdale Community Centre - Lower River Inhabitants - 2pm
Sunday Ceilidh with Mike Hall & friends - Celtic Music Centre - Judique - 3pm
Spring Fling Pot Luck - Glendale Parish Hall - 4pm
L'Arche Cape Breton Springfest - Judique Community Centre - 5pm
Variety Concert - Lakeside Community Centre - Sampsonville - 7:30pm
Cash Karaoke - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 8pm
Open Pool Tournament with Karaoke - Main Event - Glace Bay - 8pm
Cash Karaoke - Daniel's - Sydney - 9pm

Saturday 14 May 2011

Strait Area Business & Leisure Expo 2011 Starts Today


The Trade Show kicks off in just a few minutes! I'm working the Village On The Canal Association (VOCA) table. Come by and say hello!

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Saturday, May 14, 2011
Cape Breton Farmer's Market - Coxheath - 8:30am
PierScape 2011 Painting Workshop - Memorial Junior High - Whitney Pier - 1pm
Downtown Sydney Farmers Market - St. Andrew's Hall - Sydney - 1pm
Brian MacDonald & Hilda Chiasson - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 2pm
Author reading Under the Electric Sky by Christopher A. Walsh -
McConnell Library - Sydney - 3:30pm
PierScape 2011 Italian Buffet - St. Nicolas Italian Church Hall -
Whitney Pier - 6pm
Bi-Weekly Jam Session - Hillsboro Hall - Hillsboro - 7pm
Robin Hood - CBU Boardmore Playhouse - Sydney - 7pm
Kim Dunn & Carmel Mikol - Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design -
Sydney - 7:30pm
Stereos with Neverest and Eric Soloman - Membertou Trade & Convention
Centre - 7:30pm
JCI Cape Breton & Trio present A Chocolate & Martini Soiree -
Cambridge Suites - Sydney - 8:30pm
Round & Square Dance - West Mabou Hall - 10pm

Cape Breton Sisters to Take Their Place among the Elite at Cannes Festival



Michelle Newcombe and her twin sister Monique Delisle creators of Michique Handbags will be in the spotlight again as they make a trip to this year's Cannes Film Festival DPA Gifting Suite. Los Angeles based DPA Gifting Suite producer Nathalie DuBois-Sissiko selected Michique handbags for the Cannes gifting suites among other top desingers from around the world. DuBois-Sissiko chose Newcombe and Delise's Handbags to be part of the Toronto International film Fesrtival, Golden Globes and the Cannes Film Festival gift suites after she noticed the handbags in a virtual fashion campaign, promoted by Nova Scotia Business Inc. This is definitely a great honor for the duo from Cape Breton. The Cannes Film Festival takes place from May 11th to 22nd.

Thursday 12 May 2011

Leisure And Business Expo & AGM

The Strait Area Chamber of Commerce presents Leisure & Business Expo and AGM from May 13th to May 15th. On Friday the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce AGM Dinner and Awards Gala will take place at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre. The President's Reception begins at 6pm with the Dinner & Awards Gala from 7-9pm. Emcee for the evening will be Ian McNeil. The Jack Hartery Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Albert and Jeanette MacDonald of Albert J. MacDonald Construction Ltd. Port Hood. The Kevin Beaton Heart of the Community Award recipient will be Diane Johnson-Snook of Port Hawkesbury. Bill Stewart, Director of Woodlands & Strategic Initiatives for NewPage Port Hawkesbuty, will provide an update on their new BioMass Project. Live Dinner Music for the evening provided by the Scott Neary Jazz Quartet. Members $55.00, future members $60.00.RSVP on line at www.straitareachamber.ca or call 1-902-625-1588. May 14th & 15th the Leisure & Business Expo will take place at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre. Hours for the Saturday venue is 10am until 5pm and Sunday 11am until 4pm. Admission is $3.00 per person. Children under 12 free (children must be accompanied by an adult).
Come and witness the great deals on new products and services. Take in employment opportunities. If you are looking for work bring along your resume. Explore the displays and talk to representatives for lifestyle, health, home improvement and recreation, wedding planning, technology and active living. For more information call 1-902-625-1588.
On Saturday, the Rotary Wine Fair will also be taking place at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre. Come out and sample wines of the world on May 14th beginning at 7pm in the Bear Head Room. Presented by the Rotary Club of Port Hawkesbury in conjunction with the Leisure and Business Expo 2011. The wines and ales will be provided by Premier Wine and Spirits and there will be a live Jazz ensemble for entertainment.

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

May 11
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Babies and Books - McConnell Library - Sydney - 12pm
PierScape 2011 Tea and Entertainment - Whitney Pier Historical Museum - 2pm
Ian MacDougall - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
Discussion about Safety Considerations when Building a Deck - McConnell Library - Sydney - 7pm
Talent Night - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 8pm
Traditional Music & Ceilidh - Rollie’s Wharf - North Sydney - 8pm
Shindigs Idol - Shindigs Pub - Port Hawkesbury - 9pm
Danny MacNeil, Wes Niall, Brett Jerrett - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 10pm

Wednesday 11 May 2011

Tourism in Richmond County

Something has come to my attention that I feel deserves our support, so I am asking all readers to vote for this Nova Scotia entry in Pespi Refresh Contest. Surfers could use your vote. Pespi is giving away over one million dollars in grants to fund great ideas. The winners will be decided by the number of votes place online. Voters can vote once each day for their favorite project and the contest runs from May 1st to June 30th. Of course all the projects that are entered are worthy, but the project that I feel is most important has been entered into the contest by the Surfing Association of Nova Scotia (SANS). SANS's idea is a 2 part plan. First to have access available to coastline and ocean activities for everyone. There objective in reaching this goal is to ensure beach access to coastline in Cow Bay, Nova Scotia. The second part is to start a surf program which will be focused on specialized lessons to be offered to people with disabilities and learning challenges. This is the part of the project that really interests me because Richmond County is fast becoming a well known surfing destination. The Surfing Association of Nova Scotia hopes to create a surf program that will be made available to people who face challenges and have disabilities throughout Nova Scotia. Working with people with disabilities is nothing new to our area, as the St. Peter's Yacht Club has provided sailing lessons for the disabled in past years. Professional surf instructor Michelle Richards has provided surf lessons at Point Michaud for the last 8 years through a recreation program sponsored by the Municipality of Richmond. Michelle has worked with people with many kinds of disabilities. In one instance, a deaf child was able to overcome his disability and learn how to surf. Michelle knows the satisfaction of seeing people who may struggle with dealing with everyday life overcome these obstacles and achieve a goal that gives them a feeling of accomplishment and increases self esteem.
Lets help these less priviliged people receive accessibility to this program province wide. These types of programs can only be accomplished by having the needed fund to start them. The project is in the running for a $25,000 prize. Voting once a day online may help provide some of the funds needed, so lets do it. Go to www.refresheverything.ca and place your vote once a day and help make the difference.

What's Happening In Cape Breton

Wednesday, May 11, 2011
The Big Fiddle Market - Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion - Sydney - All Day
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
PierScape 2011 Music Celebration - Holy Redeemer Church - Whitney Pier - 7:30pm Wednesday Night Black Light Beats - Club 418 - Sydney - 9pm
Karoake - Steel City - Sydney - 10pm

New Hours for the Fortress of Louisbourg

News has just reached my desk on the new time schedule and season open and close dates for the Fortress of Louisbourg. The information is from Kristy Martell Acting Promotion Officer/Agente de promotion intérimaire Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site/Lieu Historique National de la Forteresse-de-Louisbourg Parks Canada Agency/Agence Parcs Canada at 259, chemin Park Service Road Louisbourg, N.S./N-É B1C 2L2.

Our season begins May 15th and runs through to October 31st. Our new opening hours this year are 9:30am to 5:00pm all season long. (Please note that the site is also now open for outdoor self guided tours from November 1st to May 14th Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm but not on weekends or holidays. The site is available to visit but there are no buildings open and no services available).
Here is a list of Fees and Hours of Operation for visitors coming to the Fortress this season:
May 15-May 31, 2011: Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Fees Adult $7.30-Senior $6.05-Youth $3.65-Family Group $18.10.Children 5 and under are admitted free.(Prices include all applicable taxes).
Fortress site open: Outside self-guided tours. Our Visitor Centre is closed.Visitors can purchase their site passes at the reconstructed town-site. Access to the reconstructed site through self-guided tours(no guided tours or costumed animation).
A limited number of buildings are open. Comfortable footwear and warm clothing is recommended Enjoy your visit with us!

Frais et heures d’ouverture: Du 15 au 31 mai 2011 Ouvert de 9h30 à 17h. Frais-Adulte 7,30 $-Aîné 6,05 $-Jeune 3,65 $-Famille/groupe 18,10 $-L’entrée est gratuite pour les enfants de cinq ans et moins.(Tous les droits incluent les taxes en vigueur).
La forteresse est ouverte: Visites autoguidées à l’extérieur. Notre centre d’accueil est fermé. Les visiteurs peuvent acheter leurs billets à la ville reconstruite. Les visites de la ville reconstruite sont autoguidées.(Pas de visites guidées ou d’animateurs en costume d’époque). Un nombre limité de bâtiments est ouvert au public. Nous vous suggérons de porter des chaussures confortables et des vêtements chauds. Bonne visite!

Tuesday 10 May 2011

Tender Love & Colours




If you are planning a birthday party you may want to consider hiring a face painter. The kids love to get their faces painted up to look like one of their favorite story book characters or mystical creatures. Crystal Samson of Tender Love & Colours Face Painting out of Louisdale, worked her magic at my granddaughters party, transforming some of the guests into everything from beautiful butterflies and tigers to fairy princesses. I have posted some of the images captured at the party of the completed work. Crystal is spectacular with the kids and she can complete the transformation of art in a very short time. The kids loved it and so did the parents. Crystal certainly added such a wonderful element to the party, and we were so glad that she could come. Thanks again, for doing such a great job. You can contact Crystal about setting up an appointment for your child's party by phone at 1-902-345-2831 or by email at tlcfacepainting@live.ca

Bubbles the Magic Clown is Fabulous




Do you have a birthday party coming up? Well if you are looking for a unique way to entertain a group of children, I have the answer for you. Bubbles the Magic Clown, is the perfect solution for any childrens party, she is fabulous. I just attended a birthday party for my granddaugher, where there were 18 five and six year olds. Usually that means a lot of running around and playing, but not at this party at least not while Bubbles performed. She made her entrance about 15 minutes after the children arrived and for the next hour the kids sat on their mats and laughed and cheered and were spellbound as Bubbles worked her magic. She had the children come up and help with the tricks, which made it lots of fun for the kids. Even the parents who stayed for the party couldn't help laughing along with the kids. So if you would like to contact Bubbles the Magic Clown for your next birthday bash call her at 1-902-567-0825. Bubbles is based out of Sydney. I am sure you will enjoy Bubbles as much as we did. Thanks Bubbles you made the day!

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Carleton Stone - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
PierScape 2011 Stories and Poetry - St Nicolas Italian Church Hall - Whitney Pier - 7:30pm
Guitar Jam - Royal Canadian Legion - Cheticamp - 9pm

Sunday 8 May 2011

The Hearthstone Inn Celebrates Mother's Day


Mother's Day at the Hearthstone Inn and Country Kitchen is just the place to take mom to celebrate her special day. The Hearthstone Inn, in Port Hastings, will be offering some excellent choices for Mother's Day. Mom can choose from Cornish Hen stuffed with rice pilaf and glazed with apricot sauce or she can enjoy their Seafood Platter made up of scalops, shrimp, haddock and clam strips. Or mom can try the Hearthstone's Surf and Turf made up of an 8oz strip loin with 5 scallops done to perfection. All dinners include homemade rolls, choice of potato, veggies, tea or coffee and dessert and all this for only $21.95 plus tax. The Hearthstone Inn & Country Kitchen will be open from 7am until 9pm. Enter to win a Mother's Day Basket.

Mother's Day Dinning at Louie's Cosy Corner

Treat mom to somthing special; Louis has some excellent choices for her special day. She can choose from Fresh rolls, Pasta Salad, Caesar Salad, Potato Salad and Coleslaw with either Roast Turkey with Stuffing and Gravy or Roast Beef and gravy or try Louie's Barbeque Baby Back Ribs, Honey Garlic Meatballs, Chicken Chop Suey, Vegetable Fried Rice, Egg rolls and Spring rolls. Or try his delicious Salmon in Dill Sauce, Herb and Garlic Roast Potatoes, Stir Fried Medley of fresh vegetables for only $16.95 plus tax. Make sure to try some of Louie's spectacular desserts. Happy Mother's Day!

Champagne Brunch At The Dundee Resort

Planning something special for mom today? How about a Champagne Brunch! The Dundee Resort and Golf Club in Dundee is offering a Mother's Day Champagne Brunch from 11am until 1pm. Mom can enjoy a glass of Champagne while enjoying some of the excellent breakfast choices. The breakfast options are bacon, sausage & home fries, fresh made muffins and biscuits, tomato and Asparagus Grittata, Creme Brulée French Toast and seasonal fresh fruit and cheese. The salad options are Garden Salad with assorted dressings, Spinach Salad with fresh strawberries, or Sunshine Salad with Poppyseed dressing. From the carving station, mom can choose from Baked Honey Maple Glazed Ham with dark rum raisin sauce, Roast Hip of Beef Au Jus with Creamed Horseadish or Herb Roasted Potato & seasonal vegetables. Then mom can choose from the dessert table, where she will find cheesecakes, tarts, cakes and more. While mom enjoys her feast she can listen to the entertainment of Jason Kempt. All of this is available for $24.95 plus tax. Children eat for $13.95 and seniors for $16.95. Regular menu is also available from $5.00 to 9pm. For reservations phone 1-902-345-2649.

Mother's Day at La Cuisine Acadienne & Lounge


Taking mom out for dinner on her day? La Cuisine Acadienne Restaurant & Lounge in Louisdale is offering some very nice choices on their menu. Mom and her party can enjoy 2 for 1 Steak for just $19.95 or a Roast Turkey or Roast Beef Dinner for $9.95. If she enjoys Chinese cuisine she may want to try their Combination Plate (which includes rice, chicken balls and a egg roll) for $10.95. Rolls, dessert, tea or coffee are included. The restaurant will be open from 9am until 10pm on Mother's Day.

The MacDonald Country Inn Mother's Day Specials

Planning on taking your mom out on Mother's Day, the MacDonald Country Inn at 9839 Pepperell Street in St. Peter's may be just the location you are looking for.
The MacDonald Country Inn is offering some great choices for mom to choose from: a Festive Turkey Dinner or a Roast Beef Dinner or their spectacular Captain's Catch Platter. Regular menu items are also available. Kids under 12 years eat for 1/2 price. There will also be local entertainment for mom's enjoyment. For reservations phone 535-2996.

What's Happening In Cape Breton Today

Sunday, May 8, 2011
Hungryman Breakfast - D'Escousse Hall - 8am
Pancake & Sausage Breakfast - Royal Canadian Legion - Port Morien - 8:30am
2nd Annual Mother’s Day 5k Walk and Run - Community Room (Civic Centre) - Sydney - 10am
Spring Into Spring Fling - Riverdale Community Centre - Lower River Inhabitants - 10am
Mother's Day Brunch - Membertou Trade & Convention Centre - 11am
Sunday Ceilidh with Glenn Graham & friends - Celtic Music Centre -
Judique - 3pm
3 Pianos: Mother's Day Show - Savoy Theatre - Glace Bay - 8pm
Cash Karaoke - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 8pm
Open Pool Tournament with Karaoke - Main Event - Glace Bay - 8pm

Saturday 7 May 2011

Estwood Davidson Memorial Concert Tonight!

The 6th Annual Estwood Davidson Memorial Bursary Concert will take place tonight at the St. Peter's Lion's Hall from 7pm until 10pm. Tickets are $15.00 per person. All proceeds will be used for the Estwood Davidson Memorial Bursary which will be awarded to a graduating student from Richmond Academy. For more information on the concert you can call Verna at 1-902-535-2166

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Saturday, May 7, 2011
Nova Scotia Club Cheerleading Provincials - Centre 200 - Sydney
Mother's Breakfast - Framboise Community Centre - 8am
Cape Breton Farmer's Market - Coxheath - 8:30am
Flotsam & Jetsam - CB Centre for Craft & Design - Sydney - 10am
Caidreabh Cainnte - Gaelic Learning Social - Highland Village Museum - Iona - 10am
Family Funtime - Tamarac Education Centre - Port Hawkesbury - 11am
International Year of Chemistry 2011 Mall of Science - Mayflower Mall - Sydney - 12pm
Downtown Sydney Farmers Market - St. Andrew's Hall - Sydney - 1pm
Spring Dessert & Tea - Little Narrows Church Hall - 1pm
Leanne Aucoin & Anna MacDougall - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 2pm
The Den Scholars - Cape Breton Fudge Co. - Sydney - 3pm
Intro to Gaelic - McConnell Library - Sydney - 3:30pm
Bobby Currie & Dan McCarthy - Ziggy's Pub - Sydney River - 5pm
6th annual Estwood Davidson Memorial Bursary Fund Concert - Lions Hall - St.Peter's - 7pm
The Coaltown Chorus - Savoy Theatre - Glace Bay - 7pm
In concert The Cape Breton Orchestra plays The Pops - St. Joseph's Church - North Sydney - 7:30pm
In Flight Safety - Shannon Studio (Civic Centre) - Port Hawkesbury - 7:30pm
Kinnon, Betty, and Andrea Beaton - Cedar's Club - Sydney - 8:30pm
Round and Square Dance featuring Kinnon, Betty and Andrea Beaton - Cedars Club - Sydney - 8:30pm
Drafted - Doryman Tavern - Cheticamp - 9pm
Hubba Parris 65th Birthday Party - Membertou Trade & Convention Centre - 9pm
Immackulate Music and Royal Kush Present "The Show" video shoot and show - The Upstairs Club - Sydney - 10pm
Round & Square Dance - West Mabou Hall - 10pm
The Kettle Black, Buck and Kinch, A.S.A. and Ian MacDougall - Governor's Pub - Sydney

Friday 6 May 2011

SAVOUR FOOD AND WINE SHOW

For the first year ever the Savour food & wine Show will happen in Cape Breton! An annual showcase of restaurants, wines and beverages, Savour brings together chefs, cooks, sommeliers and other professionals to present the best in culinary Nova Scotia has to offer. This year Cape Breton will present the first ever Savour Cape Breton with approximately 35 booths showing off the best on the island. Event goers will have the opportunity to visit each booth, tasting what has been prepared for them for the evening, tantalizing their tastebuds and discovering the culinary scene that is Cape Breton.

Thursday, May 19th, 2011
Membertou Trade & Convention Centre
7:00 - 9:30 pm
$59 + HST*

For more information call 902-429-5343
Special hotel and ticket packages available
through Cambridge Suites

$175 + tax will give you one nights accommodations
plus 2 tickets to the Savour food & wine Show

Savour Cape Breton 2011 Participants
Allegro
Baddeck Lobster Suppers
Bell Buoy
Bishops Cellar
Black Spoon Bistro
Bras d'Or Lakes Inn - Brittany Room
Cape Breton Beverages
Cape Breton Fudge Company
Chanterelle Country Inn
Charlene's Bayside Cafe
Churchill Dauphinee
Cocoa Pod Sweet Catering & Time Machine Candy Works
English Country Garden
Flavor
Flora's - Cape Breton Resorts
Glenora Inn & Distillery
Governors
Harvest Wines & Spirits
Highland Mermaid - Delta
Hotel de la Marine & Grandchamps
Innovative Beverages
Jost Wines
Kiju's
Lars Willum Cuisine/Castle Rock Country Inn
MainBrace International
Mer et Soleil
McCurdy's at the Silver Dart Lodge
NSCC
NSLC
Point of View
Rollie's Wharf Restaurant & Lounge
Sainte Famille Winery
Savoury Gourmet
Select Wines
Trio
Windward Imports

Presented with support from:Cape Breton Island Nova Scotia's Masterpiece
Cape Breton County Economic Development Authority
RANS
Nova Scotia Economic and Rural Development and Tourism

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Friday, May 6:
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Kelly's Brew - JT's Pub - New Waterford - 5pm
Charlie A'Court & Molly Thomason - Strathspey Place - Mabou - 8pm
Evolution - Steel City - Sydney - 10pm
Michael Dalton with Alicia Penney and guests - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 10pm
The Liquid Vapours and Black Tooth Grinn - The Upstairs Club - Sydney - 10pm

View of Richmond

Destination Cape Breton Association attended a major marketing event this past weekend. Exhibition Park in Halifax was the spot to be on April 29, 30th and May 1st to find out the new hot spots to visit this season. Charlene Marshall, Gary Yorke and myself were on hand to promote Richmond and inform visitors on what was in our area including the new and improved outdoor events and experiences. This is the 7th year that Richmond has taken part in the Saltscapes Travel Expo, as part of the Destination Cape Breton Association contingent. The show had approximately 400 unique exhibitors providing more than 100 presentations and demonstrations, offering the opportunity to gain awareness of the many experiences that this spectacular part of the world has to offer. The Expo highlighted everything from the Unique Retail section to Savour the Flavour of Atlantic Canada to sample our culture, music and travel, as well as what was new with cottage and garden and healthy living. Atlantic Canada is a very important tourism market, as a high percentage of visitors travelling to our area come from the Atlantic Provinces. Richmond County drew a lot of interest at the show, with visitors stopping to ask questions about the area as well as to talk to representatives from Richmond's new outdoor experiences the Lighthouse Tour and from Rock Loaf Farm where visitors can take part in activities on a working sheep farm. Tourism operators and local business showed their support for the tourism industry by donating some very nice give-aways which were used at the travel show. The Dundee Resort and Golf Club donated a Play and Stay Certificate for two lucky winners, with vacation getaways also being provided by the Bras d'Or Lakes Inn and the A. MacDonald Country Inn in St. Peter's and the L'Auberge Acadienne Inn in Arichat, and a gift certificate from Louie's Family Restaurant in St. Peter's. Foodland Grocery's donation of Oat Cakes were a hit again this year with visitors coming to our booth, with many agreeing they were the best they ever ate. Richmond County provided a participation certificate for the winner's choice of one of the exciting outdoor events. Under the leadership of CEO Mary Tulle, DCBA's layout at the show was impressive; with great entertainers, lots of presenters and visuals which made a spectacular impact. The weekend went very well, which we can only hope will generate more visitors.

Thursday 5 May 2011

Mother's Day Special


Mother's Day is this Sunday, if you are planning on treating mom to a very special dinner outing you may want to consider the Bras d'Or Lakes Inn in St. Peter's. The food and the service is excellent. The Bras d'Or Lakes Inn is known as one of the best restaurants in Nova Scotia, once you taste the food you will know why!!!

Mother's Day at the Bras d'Or Lakes Inn.

Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while,
but their hearts forever.
Author Unknown:

Mother's Day Menu:

Hot Selections
Fish Casserole with Hollandaise Sauce
Stuffed Pork Loin au jus
Roast Turkey, Traditional Stuffing, Gravy & Cranberry Sauce
Seasonal Steamed Vegetables
Oven Roasted Potatoes
Rice Pilaf
Hot Soup, Chef’s Creation

Cold Selections
Baby Red Potato Salad with pommery mustard & garden herbs
Grilled Vegetable Salad
Taboulee Salad with Parsley & Lemon
Bean Salad
Marinated Mushroom Salad
Creamy Coleslaw
Broccoli, Apple & Bacon Salad
Assorted Cheese Plate
Gourmet Deli Meat Tray
Country Style Venison Pate
Calamari, Provincial Style
Poached Salmon Rillette
Cold Mussels, New Orleans Style

Assorted Desserts
Chocolate Fountain Station
Blueberry Cheesecake
Crème Caramel
Apple Brown Betty
Fruit Salad
Bread Pudding

Reservations Recommended, by calling 1-902-535-2200

Wednesday 4 May 2011

Tourism in Richmond County

Destination Cape Breton Association attended a major marketing event this past weekend. Exhibition Park in Halifax was the spot to be on April 29, 30th and May 1st to find out the new hot spots to visit this season. And we were there. Charlene Marshall, Gary and I were on hand to inform visitors coming to Cape Breton this summer of the new and improved outdoor activities that visitors could expect to find. This is the 7th year that Gary and myself took part in the Saltscapes Travel Expo, representing Richmond County as part of the Destination Cape Breton Association contingent. The show had approximately 400 unique exhibitors providing more than 100 presentations and demonstrations, offering visitors the opportunity to gain awarness of the many experiences that this spectacular part of the world has to offer visitors. The Expo highlighted everything from the Unique Retail section to Savour the Flavour of Atlantic Canada to sample our culture, music and travel, as well as what was new with cottage and garden and healty living. The show had something of interest for everyone. Atlantic Canada is a very important tourism market, as a high percentage of visitors travelling to our area come from the Atlantic Provinces. Richmond County drew a lot of interest from visitors at the show, and were impressed at the give-aways offered at the Richmond booths. Tourism operators and local business showed their support for the tourism industry by donating some very nice give-aways which were used at the travel show. The Dundee Resort and Golf Club donated a Play and Stay Certificate for two lucky winners, with vacation getaways also being provided by the Bras d'Or Lakes Inn and the A. MacDonald Country Inn in St. Peter's and the L'Auberge Acadienne Inn in Arichat. A prize certificate was also presented from Louie's Family Restaurant in St. Peter's and the St. Peter's Foodland Grocery was a hit again this year for their delicious Oat Cakes which they donated and which many visitors at the show said were the best they every had. The county also provided gift certificates to two of the new outdoor events that will be taking place during the summer, the new Paddeling Competition and the very popular Surf Competition. As well as being able to offer some great give-aways, we were fortunate to have representatives of two of the county's new visitor experiences on hand to talk about these ventures; the Arichat Light House Tour and the brand new Sheep Farm Tour experience. The weekend was very well received by visitors, which we can only hope will generate higher rate of visitors to Richmond this season. For a full write up on the event and pictures please go to tourismspotlight.blogspot.com.

Tuesday 3 May 2011

What's Happening Around Cape Breton Today

Tuesday, May 3, 2011
It's Natural - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Win Seaton Exhibition - CBU Art Gallery - Sydney - 10am
Positive Aging Series: Seniors Fire Safety - McConnell Library - 1pm
Albert and Carolyn Lionais - Wentworth Perk - Sydney - 6pm
The Pub Boys - Reilly's Lounge (Quality Inn) - Sydney - 7pm
New Trends in Veggie Gardening Discusssion - McConnell Library - Sydney - 7pm
Guitar Jam - Royal Canadian Legion - Cheticamp - 9pm
Jay Smith - Governor's Pub - Sydney - 10pm
Tracy MacKinnon & The Lookalikes - Daniel's Lounge - Sydney - 10:30pm

Saltscapes Ticket Winner for Richmond Vacation Package

Announcement of Richmond County Ticket Draw at Saltscapes.

At the 2011 Saltscapes Travel Expo in Halifax this past weekend, ballots for a vacation package to Richmond County were given out. 1426 Ballots were filled out with potential visitors to Richmond indicating their interests while on vacation.
The winner of the vacation package, which consisted of a Play and Stay at the spectacular Dundee Resort and Golf Club in Dundee, Richmond County, an overnight stay for 2 and breakfast at the beautiful Bras d'Or Lakes Inn in St. Peter's and an overnight stay for 2 at the A. MacDonald Country Inn in St. Peter's and an overnight for 2 plus breakfast at L'Auberge Acadienne Inn in Arichat, on the scenic Acadian island of Isle Madame, plus a gift certificate from Louie's Cosy Corner Restaurant in St. Peter's, was Mr. Philip Arenburg of Bridgewater Nova Scotia. Congratulations to our winner and thanks to all visitors to the show that stopped in at our booth and filled out ballots. We hope to see you in Cape Breton where every turn in the road leads you to a new experience.

Lower River Celebrates Spring

Come and join in the SPRING INTO SPRING FLING at the Riverdale Community Centre in Lower River Inhabitance Richmond County on Sunday May 8th.
From 10am until 12pm there will be a Brunch-Adults $7.00 and children $3.00.
At 11:30 am there will be a Bake Table, Cake Walk and Straw Game. (Adults and child) Tickets will be on Door Prize, Laundry Basket and Grocery Basket.
At 1:30pm there Merchandise Bingo. 15 regular games, 4 extra games. Adm. $2.00 per book or 6 books for $10.00

Paula Sherman's Recipe For Butterscotch Pie


Paula Sherman sent me this recipe for Butterscotch Pie, and I want to pass it along.
At the Saltscapes Travel Expo, I met Paula and we were talking about the Cheticamp
area, and I mentioned that the best Butterscotch pie I had ever eaten came from the Co-op Artisan Restaurant in Cheticamp, and the gentlemen with Paula told me I was mistaken, that the best Butterscotch pie in Nova Scotia was his grandmother's. Paula told me she was given the recipe from his grandmother and that the pie was really good, and that his grandmother's secret to the recipe was not to leave the filling unattended while on the double boiler, stay right there and stir it. So I asked Paula to send me the recipe and I would pass it along on my blog. So you be the judge. If you are in Cheticamp try the pie from the Coop Artisan and then try Paula's recipe and let me know.

Butterscotch Pie
1/4c. margarine
1/4c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. milk
2 eggs, separated
1/8 tsp. salt
1tsp. vanilla
1/4c. white sugar
1 baked 9" pie shell

Melt margarine. Add flour and salt. Blend in brown sugar. Add slightly beaten egg yolks and milk. Mix well. Place in double boiler over boiling water stirring constantly until mixture thickens and then cook 15 minutes longer. Cool; add vanilla.
Beat egg whites until stiff. Add sugar and beat until meringue forms peaks.
Pour butterscotch mixture into baked pie shell. Cover with meringue.
Return to 350 degree oven for a few minutes or until meringue browns. And enjoy!

Monday 2 May 2011

International Teams Unveiled for Clipper 11-12 Race

From the desk of the Clipper Race Organizers comes this update:


More than 360 adventurers travelled from all over the globe to Southampton on Saturday 30 April to discover which of the ten teams competing in the Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race they will represent. Three-quarters of the 489 men and women who will be taking part in this gruelling challenge of a lifetime came together to meet their skippers and new team mates, travelling from as far afield as Singapore, Queensland in Australia, Scotland, Finland, New York and Chile to the event at the De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel.

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is the only global competition where people from all walks of life can step out of their comfort zones and sign up to race 40,000 miles around the world. They come from backgrounds as varied as marketing executives, nurses, bankers, carpenters, IT specialists, engineers and chief executives who represent more than 40 nationalities. Almost half of them have never sailed before embarking on their training for the world’s longest ocean race.

The Crew Allocation event is much-anticipated among those who have signed up to take part in this race around the globe. This is where the reality of their participation in the race truly begins to kick in; with a skipper in place, team strategies start to take shape, roles are assigned to the crew and, with 92 days to go until the race start, the countdown is on.

The race is contested by ten identical stripped down 68-foot racing yachts, each sponsored by a city, region or country. Already confirmed for Clipper 11-12 are the Keppel Corporation sponsored Singapore and, representing China’s Olympic sailing city, Qingdao, both entering the race for the fourth time. Returning for a second time is Visit Finland, backed by the Finnish Tourist Board. And making their debut in the race are Derry-Londonderry, celebrating their status as UK City of Culture 2013, and De Lage Landen, sponsored by the global provider of asset-based financing programmes of the same name and which will race under the Dutch flag. The names of the remaining five yachts will be revealed in the coming weeks ahead of the start of the race on 31 July 2011.

The Clipper Race was founded by sailing legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first man to sail solo and non-stop around the world, and this will be the eighth time his teams of amateur sailors will circumnavigate the planet, taking the number of people who have taken part to almost 3,000.

Addressing the massed crews Sir Robin said, “It’s a big day for you today because you’re going to find out who you’re going to share your life with for the next year. And it’s not just sharing your life, it’s sharing an adventure. Your lives are going to be dependent on your fellow crew members. Today you’ll know what team you’re going to be in and these are the people you have to live with and work with for the next year. These are the people you have to trust. It’s the team that will be all important in this race.

“Also know that you’ve only got one life so why not paint it in bright colours? Don’t use pastel shades. Make the most of it – get out there, throw yourselves into it! You will come away from this with friends for life.”