Taste the County

Arts Trail, Final Stops

2009-06-12T16:46:00.008-04:00

It’s official, as of today, thanks to visits to Peta Hall Gallery and Round the Bend Gallery, I’ve been to every gallery and artist studio on Prince Edward County’s Arts Trail. The tour, which has spanned many months, has truly been a journey of discovery and I look forward to repeating it often.

At Peta’s, I caught the artist working on a bowl on her potter’s wheel. Despite the interruption she kindly took the time to walk me through her studio and to talk about her participation in Clay, an exhibit that opens tomorrow evening (Saturday, June 13) at Blizzmax gallery in South Bay.

For the show, African-born Peta created a number of works inspired by her travels to places like Burma, Mozambique and Tanzania, which she says are more sculptural than a lot of her other work. In the shape of huts and houses, many of them wood fired, she explained that they act as a sort of meditation on the question of “where is home.” (Clay runs until June 28. For info call 613.476.7730.)

Not far outside of Picton, along the shores of Picton Bay, artist Andrew Innes’ gallery is situated on his lovely tree-ringed property. The setting is peaceful and must be inspirational. Indeed, one of Andrew’s assemblages (three dimensional mixed media constructions) that I admired was clearly inspired by the view.

At his intimate gallery, Andrew shows his own vivid watercolours, pencil drawings and assemblages along with sculptures by Bunny Bates and works by Kingston-based glass artists, Mariel Waddell and Mischka Hunter.

If you attended the Quinte Arts Council's annual juried show, Expressions 2009, you might recognize Andrew’s works as he won the Juror's Choice Award for his work entitled Waiting and Wondering.

Arts Trail Turns One

2009-06-11T13:31:00.003-04:00

June 2009 month marks the one year anniversary of the launch of Prince Edward County, Ontario’s Arts Trail (www.artstrail.ca), a tour route that winds over 200 kilometres to link together the galleries and studios of local artists.

Like the Taste Trail (www.tastetrail.ca), the region’s epicurean trail, the Arts Trail comprises a bilingual print brochure/map, a website and road signs that help guide the way. More than an opportunity to admire and snap up original artworks, it offers the public the ability to meet artists, to tour their studios and to enjoy special insight into understanding their work. It was developed to shine a spotlight on Prince Edward County’s vibrant creative community and so far it is working.

Despite the economic downtown, the trail enjoyed a successful first year with many participants reporting an increase in both traffic and sales. David Drown of Wellington Pottery says 2008 was his “best season ever” and photographer Graham Davies admits that despite initial reservations about the project’s potential to bring consumers to his door that it worked, “I saw a lot of customers with the Arts Trail in hand.”

This year’s edition includes 21 participating locations. They are: Windswept Studio; Wellington Pottery; Bloomin’ Barn Studio; Armstrong Glassworks; SideStreet Gallery; Suites-on-the-Lake Studio; Beach Street Studio; Shattered Gallery/Studio; Oeno Gallery; Angeline’s Restaurant, Inn & Spa; Covent Garden Contemporary Fine Art & Funktional Art & Design; Bloomfield Studios, Peta Hall Gallery; Mad Dog Gallery; Bald Photographer Gallery; La De Dah Sculpture Studio; Red Roof Gallery; Riccaro Jewellery Studio & Gallery; The Red Barns (an artisan’s playground); and two newcomers: Moontide Studio Gallery and Round the Bend Gallery.

Visit www.artstrail.ca or, better yet, travel the trail, to learn more.

Photo credit: Graham Davies.

Visiting PEC's Northern Shores

2009-06-09T17:10:00.017-04:00

Tuesday afternoon, June 9, 2009, turned out to be a lovely day, perfect for a drive to the northern end of Prince Edward County - Big Island and Northport to be exact. My mission...brochure deliveries.

My first stop, Haystrom Farm on Bethel Road is owned by Jim Hayward. Jim grows heirloom and exotic fruits and vegetables including 120 varieties of tomatoes and 20 varieties of melons, which are available at his roadside stand during the growing season. Check it out sometime.

A hop skip and a jump later and I arrived at Big Island where Terry Sprague of NatureStuff Tours and Things met me at the door of his house. He had been working on his computer (bird stuff no doubt). A big thank you to Terry for graciously volunteering his time to keep the Rossmore visitor kiosk stocked with Visitors Guides and Taste Trail and Arts Trail brochures, during the busy tourist season.

Around the corner from Terry Sprague's, situated on the Bay of Quinte, is the Baycrest Lodge and Marina. Owner Dave Owen has a beautiful spot with dockage, storage and repair service. Rentals of sailboats and fishing boats are also available.

Rather than completing a full loop, I back-tracked on Sprague Road to Fairview Farm, owned by Mark Bartkiw. Situated on a hill overlooking the Big Island marsh, Mark's farm is a picturesque place for his organically grown, pick-your-own vegetables, fruits and flowers. While there visitors may wish to take a look at Mark's handmade furniture crafted from century-old lumber.

Back on the mainland and heading east on County Road 15, towards the Skyway Bridge (Highway 49), I paid a visit to Bill Reddick Studio Porcelain. He had just finished roasting some Rwandan coffee beans and offered me a cup of the freshly brewed coffee. During my visit Bill mentioned that his plate entitled "Plate with National Imagery" will be shown at the 2009 Cheongju International Craft Biennale in Cheongju, South Korea. The largest fine craft event of its kind, the Craft Biennale will showcase work from over 40 nations. Canada is the featured guest country for 2009 and we're very proud to have Bill representing Prince Edward County's vibrant creative community.

Next I made a brief stop at Clearwater Design to drop of some brochures in their mailbox, before skipping over to Therapy on the Bay on Georges Road, which is owned by Bruce and Marilyn Foster. Bruce is a registered physiotherapist,certified in acupuncture and treats mind, body and spirit in a tranquil setting on the Bay of Quinte.

My last brochure drops of the day, before heading home for supper, were to Bayside Cottages, the Grey Cottage at Green Point and Goodfellow Meats.

I must admit, it was a great way to spend an afternoon at work.

Cultivating Collaboration…Building the Prince Edward County Brand

2009-06-04T15:26:00.003-04:00

Prince Edward County will once again be showcased in Toronto, this time at an intimate fundraiser for the Artscape’s upcoming Creative Places + Spaces: The Collaborative City conference.

Entitled Cultivation, the event is expected to draw a crowd of fifty guests (including some of Toronto's leading cultural philanthropists, corporate leaders and Artscape not-for-profit partners and donors) to the home of Richard and Rana Florida where they will all enjoy wine from our region.

According to the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward’s Jean Anne Carroll, who is coordinating the County’s involvement in the event, the guests will also be sent home with Prince Edward County-branded gift baskets, which will tell stories of our “Collaborative County” designed to underscore the purpose behind the Collaborative City conference.

Among the stories that will be told are those of our wine industry, Goat Milk Cheddar (produced jointly by Black River Cheese Company and Fifth Town Artisan Cheese Company), Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), and marketing products including the Arts Trail, Taste Trail and Harvestin’ the County. The guests will also learn that our community produces and exports everything from IMAX films and HDTV productions to billion dollar financial management software and art.

Jean Anne has also informed Taste the County that our newly launched "Come Back to Earth" branding, which was developed as part of this year’s destination marketing campaign, will be used to wrap gifts for various delegations and tours that are visiting the County in the near future. “It is already proving its versatility and usefulness—filling the ‘gap’ for a common brand that can be used to position and promote Prince Edward County,” she says.

Come to PEC, Come Back to Earth

2009-05-28T14:21:00.005-04:00

Taste the County is very pleased to announce the launch of its latest venture, the Come Back to Earth website, www.comebacktoearth.ca, which will go live tomorrow (Saturday, May 30, 2009). Designed to shine a spotlight on Prince Edward County’s amazing food, drink and hospitality scene, it features profiles of local businesses, information on upcoming events, the opportunity of purchase all sorts of locally-crafted products and much more. Until October 30, 2009 visit the site to enter to win your dream Prince Edward County vacation!

Thanks to Scout Design and InfoLink Website Development for their collaboration and hard work on this project.

Angeline's Celebrates Re-Opening

2009-05-28T09:09:00.014-04:00

Last night, Angeline's Restaurant, Inn & Spa celebrated the reopening of its restaurant (special thanks went out to Loyalist Contractors and the OPP among others) and the arrival of chef Sebastien Schwab, a native of France who comes to the County via Halifax and the island of St. Pierre and Miquelon.

At least 200 people (possibly more!) turned out for the festivites, which included live music, a show of art by local artist Tammy Love, an open bar and, last but not least, artfully presented and mouth-watering food.

Welcome to Sebastien (pictured above, right) and his wife Silvia Cambray.

OCTA Munch and Mingle

2009-05-28T08:48:00.010-04:00

On Tuesday night, the Ontario Culinary Tourism Alliance (OCTA) launched their new website at an event at Hart House in Toronto.

Designed to use social media to drive new business opportunities in the province's culinary tourism industry, the new site is a resource of best practices, research and education opportunities for those involved in the culinary tourism industry. It is also a forum for growers, chefs and hospitality operators to connect and ultimately identify new business opportunities through the power of online organizing.

Taste the County attended to launch, handing out Prince Edward County Visitors Guides, Taste Trail and Arts Trail brochures as well as serving Fifth Town Artisan Cheese Company’s award-winning Lighthall Tomme, Black River Cheese Company’s Maple Cheddar (made with 100% pure Prince Edward County maple syrup) and biscuits by County Crackers. The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards & Estate Winery and Rosehall Run Vineyards were also in attendance along with a mix of several dozen members of various tourism organizations and media.

2009-05-27T11:04:00.019-04:00

This week Grace and I dropped off 2,500 Prince Edward County Visitors Guides and rack cards for TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine and Countylicious at Moontide Studio Gallery where Tara Wilkinson was collecting the promotional materials of seven local businesses in order to pass them on to CTM Media Group for distribution. (Many thanks to Tara.)

While we were there, Tara’s husband artist Andrew Csafordi gave us a tour around their lovely lilac-ringed property, which comprises several out buildings that house various workspaces including Tara's studio/gallery, Love Nest Studios, and a large barn where Andrew’s encaustic artworks that incorporate materials such as beeswax and twigs are on display. Visit them the next time you’re travelling the Arts Trail.

The County's Wine Celebration

2009-05-21T12:30:00.006-04:00

On Saturday of Victoria Day weekend, Taste the County attended the Terroir wine festival at Picton's Crystal Palace to promote the Taste Trail. Hundreds of people turned out to sample newly released vintages and local cuisine. And while the weather threatened to turn stormy, to everyone's relief, it never did.
Congratulations to Prince Edward County Winegrowers Association (PECWA), which organized the event and special thanks to Mary J. Brett for helping out at our booth!

Congratulations Chesterfields

2009-05-15T11:41:00.006-04:00

This week, Vicky and Graham officially opened the doors to their new venture, Chesterfields Homegrown Cafe, and Grace and I were there to chow down on some of their County-fresh fare. The atmosphere is laidback and friendly, and the food - very yummy!

Grilled sandwiches, buckwheat waffles, maple cinnamon buns, coffee, tea...they've got it all and more.

Chesterfields is located at 173 Main Street, Picton (around back of Gilbert & Lighthall Marketplace). Open for breakfast and lunch.

Salute Wine Festival

2009-05-13T09:01:00.012-04:00

Thanks, in part, to funding from the Ministry of Agriculture (Ontario Market Investment Fund), Taste the County, along with a number of Prince Edward County wineries attended Salute, Toronto's New Wine, Food & Lifestyle Festival, May 4 - 9, 2009.

The wine regions of Prince Edward County and Argentina were showcased at the Thursday evening event in Toronto's magnificent 138 year old heritage venue Berkeley Church. Festival goers were keen to taste and learn about Prince Edward County wines. Attending wineries included Harwood Estates Vineyards, Rosehall Run Vineyards, The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards & Estate Winery, Huff Estates Winery, Closson Chase Vineyards, County Cider Company, Black Prince Winery, Thirty-Three Vines and Bergeron Estate Winery. Taste the County served samples of cheese from Fifth Town Artisan Cheese Company and Black River Cheese Company while distributing brochures and promoting all of the wonderful experiences that Prince Edward County has to offer.

The courtyard in Toronto's classic Hart House at the University of Toronto provided an intimate setting for the Friday evening event. Rosehall Run and Closson Chase attended the Food Network's 100 Mile Challenge Ultimate Kitchen Party during Salute Saturday at the Distillery District.

It was was wonderful to see the Toronto public so enthused about the products that Prince Edward County has to offer.

A Year in Review

2009-05-13T08:06:00.015-04:00

Thanks to all who came out to last night's AGM. Approximately 40 people turned out to hear our executive director, Kathy Kennedy, talk about the highlights from the past year as well as what the future might hold. Carlyn Moulton, Taste the County board member (and co-owner of Oeno Gallery), also took the floor to speak about the very important Tourism Competitiveness Study, which was released in February by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism. As the study makes various recommendations including the establishment of new tourism regions and the standardization of Destination Marketing Fees (a fee on the room portion of a guest bill), we recommend our partners read it as it will affect us all.

In addition, the chair of the board, Ginny Merritt (Roger's Hospitality) welcomed four new board members: Marilyn Carson of Carson Bay Farms, Bernie Gray of Bernie Gray Kayaking, Erin Jones of Terra Vista Landscape & Construction Supplies and Richard Johnston of By Chadsey's Cairns Winery and Vineyard.

A fond farewell was also made to longtime board members Carl Joly (pictured above right), of One Main Street Bed and Breakfast and Jeremy Gander (left) of Ganders Bed & Breakfast. The two have served on our board so long that Ginny joked that no other board member could remember when they first started. We wish Carl and Jeremy all the very best!

AGM

2009-05-12T09:12:00.006-04:00

Don’t forget Taste the County's Annual General Meeting is tonight.

Where Bloomfield Town Hall

When 7pm, May 12, 2009

Bring your brochures.

See you there!

All That Jazz

2009-05-06T11:25:00.004-04:00

Yesterday the Prince Edward County Jazz Festival (August 18 to 23, 2009) announced their 2009 main stage line up at a gathering at the Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards & Estate Winery. The festival’s creative director, Brian Barlow promised that this year’s event will be one of the best to date, with a jazz piano focus taking centre stage at all four Regent theatre concerts. Find out more at www.pecjazz.org.

Redtail Vineyard Opening

2009-05-06T11:07:00.007-04:00

Recently my husband and I had the pleasure of attending the soft launch of Prince Edward County's newest winery, Redtail Vineyard. Canada's only "off-grid" winery, owners Pauline Joicey & Gilbert Provost are as passionate about the environment as they are about wine. Located at 422 Partridge Hollow Road, Consecon, the official opening takes place this weekend, Saturday May 9 & Sunday May 10, 2009.

Hot off the Press!

2009-04-29T13:43:00.005-04:00

Six hundred cases of Prince Edward County Visitors Guides, Taste Trails and Arts Trails arrived at Taste the County headquarters today! Be sure to stop in and pick up copies for your business.

Local Residents are Maple Winners!

2009-04-22T15:24:00.005-04:00

Winning ballots were drawn following the recent Maple in the County festival held on March 28 & 29 in Prince Edward County and prizes were presented on Monday, April 20, at Flowers N’ Such by representatives of Taste the County and Festival Players of Prince Edward County.

Congratulations to Kerry Reynolds and Lynda and Don Hopkins, winners of a Maple in the County gift basket containing an assortment of delicious maple goodies, food and wine.

Also congratulations to Diane Hubbs, winner of a Festival Players of Prince Edward County Flex Pass. Diane will enjoy three plays in July and August; Ship of Fire, Schoolhouse and Colours in the Storm.

You can pick up your Festival Players Flex Pass at the Festival Players of Prince Edward County office located at 15786 Loyalist Pkwy., Bloomfield, 613.399.5677.

If you would like to participate in Maple in the County 2010 please contact Grace Nyman, Taste the County, 613.393.2796 or grace.taste@bellnet.ca.

TASTE! Time

2009-04-16T15:25:00.004-04:00

Even though it's more than five months away, Taste the County is already busy getting ready for this year's TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine, which will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2009. Eastern Ontario's premier epicurean experience, TASTE! is a Top 100 Festival in Ontario and an excellent way for local food and beverage producers to showcase their mouth-watering wares.
Anyone interested in taking part can contact Grace (grace.taste@bellnet.ca) for details.

Three's Company

2009-04-09T09:42:00.010-04:00

Recently, Taste the County has expanded to include three interns from Loyalist College. Roberta Denyes (left) from Sales and Marketing, Jessica Grigg (centre) from Advertising and Melonie Williams (right) from Tourism Marketing and Promotions, are all pitching in on various projects from Countylicious and Maple in the County to conducting interviews to post on our new blog Experience the County (check out the lastest Q&A with Ted Maczka aka the Garlic Man). All bring with them different skill sets and expertise and we are delighted to have them.

2009 Maple in the County Slideshow

2009-03-30T13:43:00.006-04:00

Contratulations to everyone involved in this the 8th annual Maple in the County festival. Lots of you said that it was the best one yet. Sweet!

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Countdown to Maple

2009-03-26T10:57:00.008-04:00

Last minute preparation for Maple in the County is in high gear as Prince Edward County maple syrup producers and scores of local businesses prepare to host thousands of visitors this weekend. Don't miss your chance to tour sugar shacks, dig into hot off the griddle pancakes soaked in syrup, buy maplelicious products, see Murray McLauchlan in concert at the Regent Theatre and much, much more.

See you there!

Taste the County Awarded Funds for DMC

2009-03-18T09:59:00.006-04:00

On Friday, March 13, 2009, at Black Prince Winery, Taste the County announced that it has been awarded $100,000 by the Ministry of Agriculture (Ontario Market Investment Fund) and $25,000 from the Municipality of Prince Edward to develop and execute a destination marketing campaign (DMC) focused on promoting locally made food and drink.

Taste the County’s executive director, Kathleen Kennedy is delighted: “The funding provides our organization with the means to meaningfully promote our region’s great food and beverage products and in turn to drive consumers to businesses throughout Prince Edward County. It’s a great start this year’s tourist and growing season.”

A partnership between Taste the County and the Prince Edward County Winegrowers Association (PECWA), the project will showcase not only County made cuisine and wine, but also items such as cheese, meat, maple syrup, jam, chocolate, crackers, beer and cider as well as three events: Countylicious, Maple in the County and Terroir. And while its primary focus will be on the Ottawa region, it will also target Cobourg, Port Hope, Quinte and surrounding area.

The Ontario Market Investment Fund (OMIF) program is a 4-year $12 million provincial initiative to promote consumer awareness of Ontario-produced foods and to encourage Ontarians to buy locally. Its objectives are to develop opportunities through trade events, marketing campaigns and industry research initiatives that foster partnerships and collaboration for the promotion of Ontario foods.

Maple and TASTE! Take Top Award

2009-03-17T09:07:00.007-04:00

Prince Edward County’s reputation as a compelling tourism destination received a major boon last week as two of the region’s premier events earned the title of Top 100 Ontario Festival. TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine (www.tastecelebration.ca) won the designation for the first time, while Maple in the County (www.mapleinthecounty.ca) won the prestigious designation for the second year in a row. Sweet!

Lights, Camera, Action!

2009-03-17T08:49:00.010-04:00

Lyndsay Richmond, Picton Business Improvement Area Association BIAA, Meloni Williams, a Loyalist intern, and myself made the trek to Kingston yesterday afternoon to promote the upcoming Maple in the County festival on Newswatch at 5:30pm with Anthony Agostino. Hopefully it reached a wide audience and brings even more people to enjoy our Top 100 festival.

Taste the County is a Twit

2009-03-12T12:01:00.010-04:00

Twit you ask? Taste the County has made its way into the 21st Century by social networking on www.twitter.com. Twitter is a service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: what are you doing?

At Taste the County we keep the twitter screen launched and every once in a while we let people know what we are up to, whether we have launched a new website, tried a new local product, had an article published in a newspaper or magazine, congratulate a partner on a success and so on.

The idea is to gain a huge number of followers. In order to do this you first have to sign up. Let's get connected. Look forward to meeting you in cyberspace.

Tweet!

Looking forward to the first crop - Maple Syrup!

2009-03-11T15:11:00.014-04:00

Thursday, March 5, a festive, sunny day set the stage for the 8th Annual Maple in the County Media Event held at the Vader's sugar shack on County Road 18, Cherry Valley. Singers Jeanette Arsenault, Micheline Cox and Micheline Lortie opened the Maple Media Event with a couple of toe-tapping french songs from their upcoming french themed dinner and show at the Waring House, La Cuisine a Micheline, Les Airs de Chez Nous.

Maple in the County presenting sponsor Norah Rogers welcomed everyone and spoke to the participation of the Waring House in the festival since its inception in 2001. She noted that Maple in the County has provided a big boost to the local and hospitality businesses including their own. (Did you know that Maple in the County attracted 6,000 plus people to the region last year?)

Additionally, Ron Hubbs, spokesperson for presenting sponsor, The Prince Edward County Maple Syrup Producers, indicated the importance of Maple in the County to the tourism industry of Prince Edward County. He introduced the maple syrup producers and the activities that would be taking place at each of their sugarbushes. Ron also introduced Mayor Leo Finnegan who said a few words on behalf of the County of Prince Edward. A number of county councillors were on hand as well.

I thanked the sponsors, welcomed new sponsor, Organic Meadow who has sponsored the Murray McLauchlan show at the Regent Theatre and gave an overview of the upcoming events and new participants.

Lyndsay Richmond, Picton BIAA sponsor spoke to the numerous activities happening in downtown Picton on Saturday, March 28 with the Picton Maple Madness Celebration and Sale. Mabel the maple leaf mascot will be making an appearance on main street that day.

The event finished with song Valderi, Valdera and a number of delicious maple treats: maple truffles from Copper Kettle Chocolate, maple tarts from Painted Peppercorn, maple cheddar from Black River Cheese and maple squares from Sweet Water Cabin (Hubb's Sugarbush).

Be sure to hit a sugarbush March 28 & 29, 2009. www.mapleinthecounty.ca

View photos from Media Event

Just around the corner

2009-02-17T08:37:00.003-05:00

Isn’t it great to see some grass again! Spring is quickly approaching and with that brings a hustle and bustle in the Taste the County office. We’re currently up to our eyeballs in listings, photos proofs, and more proofs for our seasonal guides and events; Arts Trail; Taste Trail, Visitors Guide and Maple in the County. You can look forward to another great line up of County products coming your way soon.

Tuesday Night at the Movies

2009-02-17T08:28:00.006-05:00

It's a nice treat to go to the movies on a Tuesday night. For a mere $5.00 ticket and the cost of a popcorn and a drink you've got yourself an affordable evening of entertainment at The Regent Theatre in Picton (and you don't have to drive to Belleville). A trip to the Regent Theatre is always a pleasure. I like to arrive a little early so I can take time to and admire the historic old building from my seat. It must have been something in its day. Give yourself a treat, take in movie, a concert (like the upcoming Maple in the County Murray McLauchlan in concert) or a theatrical production in this grande old theatre and enjoy the treasure we have in our midst. You won’t be disappointed. Enjoy!

Learning About Farm to Fork County-Style

2009-01-22T12:09:00.001-05:00

On January 20th a large crowd of people joined students from Prince Edward Collegiate Institute for an evening entitled the Black Tie Event. A practical examination, the event was the culmination of the inaugural edition of the County Roots program.

The first program of its kind in Prince Edward County, County Roots is designed to introduce students to all aspects of the local food industry. Taught by Beth Vader and Suzanne White, County Roots exposes students to local agricultural, tourism and hospitality sectors. Along with course work, students who participated in the program went on two, three week co-op placements at local businesses including farms, wineries and restaurants.

For the Black Tie Event the program’s 14 students showcased their newfound knowledge against a backdrop of a formal reception. They planned the event from start to finish, creating everything from its advertising to preparing and serving the food.

Food choices ranged from caesar salad to braised lamb served on a bed of barley. I served maple harvest soup which with goat cheese baguette, which was inspired by my experience working on the Taste the County-organized Maple in the County festival. My favorite dish was the truffles, which were made by Andrea Heuving who did her work placement with Wayne Carruthers of Picton’s Industrial Perk Café, but all the food was outstanding and made for a great event.

Hosted by the Prince Edward/Lennox & Addington Community Futures Development Corporation (PELA CFDC), who provided funding for the program along with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), the Black Tie Event was staged at the organization’s office in the brand new Edward building. The near-finished building comprises a mix of living and office spaces and incorporates old-style craftsmanship with new age energy efficiency.

At the end of the evening, students presented to their placement hosts with County Roots shirts meant as thank you gifts for providing them with invaluable hands on experiences.

Thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed the night with us and we look forward to another great semester of County Roots.

Tourism Development Alliance Meeting

2009-01-07T15:10:00.005-05:00

Interested in attending the next Tourism Development Alliance (TDA) meeting focusing on the upcoming 225th anniversary of Loyalist settlement? It will take place at 10am, January 12, 2009 at Bloomfield Town Hall (289 Main Street, Bloomfield). RSVP to: ed.taste@bellnet.ca.

Hit Us With Your Best Shot

2009-01-07T14:36:00.006-05:00

Taste the County, Prince Edward County’s award-winning non-profit destination marketing organization, is on the hunt for professional quality images to consider for the cover of the 2009 edition of the Official Prince Edward County Visitors Guide. An annual print publication, the guide is a go-to source for visitors providing practical information on local businesses, attractions and events.

The ideal image captures the unique spirit of Prince Edward County and possibly focuses on one or more of the following County themes:

• Unique island character

• Unspoiled natural beauty

• Sandbanks and beachscapes

• Rural and agricultural landscapes and heritage

• Small town ambiance

• Historic homes, farmsteads and streetscapes

• Proud Loyalist history and traditions

• Vibrant creative community

Submission Specifications

In order to submit images for consideration, please note that you must hold the copyright(s) to the image(s) submitted. In addition:

• Submissions should be submitted in JPEG format to jenn.taste@bellnet.ca no later than January 20, 2009 and should include your name, contact email and phone number.

• For review purposes, each image should be 72 dpi and approximately 4” X 6” in size, however a high resolution version of at least 300dpi and 5.5” X 8.5” in size must also be available upon request.

• Images must be full colour and a vertical orientation is ideal.

• Each photographer may submit up to 15 images for consideration.

For more information, please email Jennifer at Taste the County (jenn.taste@bellnet.ca).

We look forward to seeing the County through your camera lense!

Maple in the County Meeting

2008-12-11T12:16:00.009-05:00

Following the Chamber's Meet and Greet on Tuesday evening I ventured back to the office in Bloomfield for a Maple in the County meeting with the local Prince Edward County maple producers.

If any business or not-for-profit group is interested in participating in this wonderful family festival it’s not too late! Just send me a quick email at grace.taste@bellnet.ca with your contact information and I will get back to you with more information.

News about upcoming meetings will be posted on this blog. Stay tuned for details.

Chamber Christmas Meet and Greet

2008-12-11T12:10:00.015-05:00

Jenn, Kathy and I attended the Christmas Meet and Greet for the Prince Edward County Chamber of Tourism & Commerce (PECCTAC) held at the Victory on Tuesday evening.

A beautiful space, the Victory is Picton's former Post Office (205 Main Street), and houses the Canadian Society of Marine Artists. Founded in 1983, the non-profit society is dedicated to Canadian artists who are inspired by our oceans, lakes, ships and sailors. I would highly recommend that you stop in and browse through the many books or enjoy the various art pieces on display, many of which are for sale.

At the event, presentations were made by Gillian Chapman, Business Development Manager of PELA CFDC to the winners of the 2008 Business Competition.

The Grand Prize, a $50,000 interest-free loan, went to Shryl Nussey and Tamara Porter for e & co., a destination store that will soon open in Picton which will provide customers with a wide array of green products.

Additionally, awards were presented to Brad Lynd of Picton's Bean Counter Cafe, and Chuck Taylor of Artmount Laminating of Bloomfield for $5,000 interest-free loans and renovations support packages provided by Home Hardware in Picton.

Following the presentations, a live auction of wrapped Christmas gifts donated by attending guests raised over $1000 for the Children’s Aid Society.

Congratulations and thank you for a lovely evening.

2009 Calendar of Important Dates and Deadlines

2008-12-11T11:36:00.003-05:00

Every year Taste the County oversees the production of a number of publications and events. Juggling these various projects and their deadlines is a complicated task. So, as part of an ongoing effort to streamline all of our processes, we've created the following calendar of important dates and deadlines to help our partners keep current on what projects we're working on. Take note of those that apply to you!

January 23
Submission deadline for Arts Trail and Taste Trail listings

January 30
Submission deadline for event listings to be considered for inclusion in the 2009 Official Prince Edward County Visitors Guide

February 14
Deadline for participation in 2009 Countylicious campaigns; submission deadline for menu for the spring edition of Countylicious

February 27
Deadline for sponsorship of 2009 TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine

March 13-29
Countylicious

March 28-29
2009 Maple in the County

April 30
Deadline for participation in 2009 TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine

August 31
Submission deadline for food and beverage offering(s) for 2009 TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine vendors

September 26
TASTE! a celebration of regional cuisine

October 6
Submission deadline for menu for the fall edition of Countylicious

November 6-21
Countylicious

November 30
Deadline for sponsorship of 2010 Maple in the County

December 1
Deadline for participation in the 2010 Arts Trail and Taste Trail

December 15
Deadline for 2010 Official Prince Edward County Visitors Guide; Deadline for sponsorship of 2010 Harvestin’ the County; and deadline for participation and listing for 2010 Maple in the County

Taste Trail Study

2008-12-10T12:43:00.009-05:00

On Tuesday morning, Taste the County (including honoury staff member Colin Sills) attended the presentation of the results of a recent study of the Taste Trail. Conducted in summer 2008, the study sheds light on topics such as how the trail is perceived by both the people who travel it as well as the establishments who participate in it.

Over the course of two hours the study’s principal investigators Richard Wade and Hersch Jacobs from Ryerson University’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management presented findings to a group of 15 which included our former colleague, Rebecca LeHeup-Bucknell and Dan Taylor, the County’s Economic Development Officer.

Weighing in at 97 pages, the study is too long to summarize here, but a number of results did stand out. These include that while Taste Trail consumers reported a high level of satisfaction with the trail, with over eighty percent scoring it an eight out of ten, the most common suggestions for improving it were to include more establishments, to improve advertising and to avoid a charge for tastings. What’s more, when it came to Taste Trail participants, a majority (75%) indicated that they receive frequent or very frequent requests for local food products, while all believed buying local was either important or very important.

To read the study for yourself, click here and thanks again to Richard and Hersch and all those who turned out!

Heritage and Culture Brainstorming Session

2008-12-08T14:09:00.010-05:00

This morning, Kathy, Jenn, Grace and I, joined a large group of regional heritage and culture stakeholders at a meeting hosted by the Tourism Development Alliance (TDA).

President of the Prince Edward County Chamber of Tourism & Commerce and TDA co-chair, Rick Caruso, welcomed everybody, while Kathy guided the discussion.

Intended to act as an information exchange and brainstorming session, the meeting generated a lot of lively discussion. We heard about everything from upcoming events, particularly those designed to honour the 225 anniversary of Loyalist settlement in Ontario that will take place in 2009, to the ways in which various groups might combine forces.

In order to facilitate future communications, Lawrie Ackerman of the Chamber agreed to create a contact list and a second meeting is planned for 10 am, Monday, January 12 at the Bloomfield Town Hall. All are welcome to join in and share their ideas.

Arts Trail, Part Four

2008-12-05T15:00:00.008-05:00

This morning, I joined Taste the County staff as they completed the final leg* of their tour of the Arts Trail.

At our first stop, Bloomfield Studios, we were greeted by Mel Wilder who welcomed us in with a warm smile. Mel gave us a tour around his studio explaining the materials and tools he uses to make the large variety of blown glass items—ranging from fine jewelry to beautiful oil lamps—that he’s known for. Next, Mel took us over to the hot oven to demonstrate his craft. I know I speak for all of us when I say it was impressive to see first-hand the different techniques used to create Mel’s work.

Next, we headed to Shattered Gallery/Studio home of Vanessa Pandos. Vanessa is a glass artist who uses antique glasses and found items to create stain glass panels and sculptures—all with her own unique twist. Vanessa took the time to talk to us about some of the projects, including a series called Terroir, she hopes to complete in the near future. I for one, enjoyed seeing her work come to life as it was hit by the winter sun.

Leaving the glass portion of our tour behind, next it was on to Covent Garden Fine Art Gallery located on Main Street, Wellington. Covent Garden showcases fine art from a Canadian group known as The Q. I particularly enjoyed the warm reds and yellows found in the works of artist Lynda Pogue that were on display.

The last stop of our tour was back in Bloomfield at Caroline Shuttle’s Elements Glass Studio. Caroline uses a technique called kiln forming to create a wide variety items including platters, plates, bowls and jewellery. She also produces stunning stain glass windows, which would be a nice edition to any household.

Taste the County has one more Arts Trail stop to make. We're hoping to visit Peta Hall's studio before Christmas. Stay tuned for details!

County Roots Visits Taste the County

2008-12-04T13:45:00.003-05:00

For the next few weeks, grade twelve student Colin Sills is helping us out at Taste the County headquarters. As part of Prince Edward Collegiate Institute’s County Roots program, he will be providing invaluable assistance on projects such as Countylicious and Maple in the County. An experiential course, County Roots has students working both at school and in the community to learn first-hand about the agriculture, tourism and culinary industries of Prince Edward County. Welcome Colin, we’re happy to have you!

Theatre Lovers Take Note

2008-12-04T08:48:00.017-05:00

Last night I attended the Festival Players of Prince Edward County 2009 Season Launch at Books & Company. On hand were actors and musicians from the troupe who entertained the crowd with excerpts and songs from the three plays planned for next summer. In the pipeline are: Ship of Fire, Colours in the Storm and Schoolhouse. The line up looks great and the plays are scheduled to run for a longer period of time (July 8 to August 23, 2009) than last year.

It is so wonderful to see the bounty of talent that there is in the County. I’ve decided to include a Flex Pass on my Christmas list. At $67 (25% off the price of three regular tickets), it’s a great deal! (To get your own, or for more information, head to the box office at Books & Co. in downtown Picton.)

Wishing Festival Players much success for the upcoming season!

Arts Trail Meeting

2008-11-26T08:27:00.004-05:00

Last night, Joanna McFarland of Suites-on-the-Lake Studio, hosted a meeting of 2008 Arts Trail participants and a few who might wish to join in 2009. A large group turned out, including the Arts Trail brochure and website’s creative designer, Rene Dick of Scout Design. Kathy led the discussion and almost everyone present shared thoughts and impressions regarding the first season of the trail as well as what’s in store in future.

The mood was very positive and lots of ground was covered—very energizing!

Thanks to Joanna for the wine, cheese and lovely setting and to everyone who turned out on such a wet and stormy night.

Arts Trail, Part Three

2008-11-24T15:54:00.006-05:00

Another lovely, albeit chilly, afternoon, another section of the Arts Trail.

On Friday, Kathy, Grace and I began the third installment of our adventure at Picton-based Riccaro Jewellery Studio & Gallery where artist Carol Burrill was in the midst of reorganizing her showroom. Carol graciously took a time-out to chat with us as we admired her wide array of delicate earrings and chunky necklaces. She also took us behind the scenes to her workshop. There we learned about stone polishing and cutting—her husband’s specialty—and a process she uses when working with silver called annealing. According to Carol, annealing involves heating and cooling the silver, which in turn makes it more malleable so that can then be hammered or worked into different shapes.

At our next stop, the Red Barns (an artisan’s playground) the topic of annealing came up again as Heather Watson walked us through the hot shop. Apparently, when it comes to glass blowing, annealing involves cooling hot glass slowly in order to relieve internal stresses and to improve its durability.

As a first time visitor to the Red Barns, I was impressed by its size and scope. On top of the hot shop, Heather toured us through the complex’s woodwooding, blacksmithing and ceramic workshops as well as its roomy retail store and still we didn’t see everything there is to see.

In Bloomfield at Angeline’s Restaurant, Inn & Spa we viewed an exhibition of oil paintings by Harlan House a Marysville-based artist probably better known for his work as a potter. Focused on fast food (cheeky considering they’re hanging in one of the County’s finest restaurants), I found the paintings’ lively colours and rich textures nicely offset by the dining room’s brightly hued walls.

We ended our day with Tess Moffat at Windswept Studio, tucked into a small thicket of trees just east of Ameliasburg. The second floor space, flooded with natural light, acts as a gallery, a classroom and a studio—the latter, only when the weather forces Tess out of her garden to work indoors. From small to oversized, the canvases we saw were mostly lush landscapes and florals and had me dreaming about next summer. Driving back to the office while gazing at the County’s snow-dusted scenery definitely felt like a study in contrasts.

Still to come: Covent Garden Fine Art & Gallery, Shattered Gallery/Studio, Elements Glass Studio, Bloomfield Studios and La De Dah Sculpture Studio.

Wassail!

2008-11-21T11:17:00.004-05:00

Last night, Waring Hall acted as the backdrop for the 2nd annual Wassail Kick Off Gala. Designed to toast the end of another growing season, the festival will continue over the next two weekends (November 22 and 23 and November 29 and 30) with local wineries, the cidery and the brewery offering an assortment of seasonal goodies from mulled wines, spiced ciders or special beers to comfort food munchies.

At the launch, the Command Performance Choir provided the music and numerous local wineries along with Barley Days Brewery and the County Cider Company poured the drinks. The mood was merry as the winegrowers seemed happy to have yet another harvest season behind them. Particularly cheerful were Richard Johnston and Vida Zalnieriunas of By Chadsey's Cairns winery who were crowned King and Queen with last year’s Queen, Rita Kaimins of Waupoos Estates Winery on hand to pass them the Wassail cup.

For more details about Wassail, check out the website of the Prince Edward County Winegrowers Association (PECWA), www.thecountywines.com.

Maple Meeting

2008-11-21T10:53:00.007-05:00

Last night Kathy and myself met with a number of maple producers to the kick-off the 8th annual Maple in the County. Hosts Ron and Janice Hubbs of Hubbs Sugarbush invited us to meet at their quaint Sweet Water Cabin on Rednersville Road.

It was good to see all of the maple producers out and in a spirit of cooperation and excitement about moving forward with the event for the next few years. A lively and frank discussion took place, decisions were made and we are all ready to proceed full speed ahead.

Following the meeting Janice brought out some refreshments and nibbles for us to enjoy and both Ron and Janice took some time to show and explain some of their maple artifacts and treasures that are housed in the cabin.

I guess Ron felt I needed a bit more sweetening…as he filled my pockets with maple candy on the way out. Thanks Ron!

Celebrating Our Partners and Volunteers

2008-11-21T10:25:00.007-05:00

Tuesday evening was Taste the County’s annual Partnership Volunteer Recognition Evening, which celebrates the individuals that contribute to the organization’s ongoing success.

More than 50 people mixed and mingled, sipped local wines and nibbled on local cheese and goodies prepared by the Regent Café (thank you Judy!), while members of Taste the County’s Board of Directors helped hand out all sorts of wonderful door prizes. Donated by Taste the County partners, the prizes ranged from a cozy wool blanket to three hour kayaking tour and had everybody hoping they’d win. A grand prize comprising of two round trip tickets to anywhere within the Windsor-Quebec corridor, courtesy of VIA Rail, was won by Taste the County volunteer Susie Harrington. (To see the full list of who won what check out your November 21, 2008 Taste the County’s Weekly E-Newsletter.
The event culminated in the presentation by Taste the County Board member Jeremy Gander of the Awards of Excellence. Recognizing outstanding contributions to the region’s agricultural, arts and cultural, and tourism sectors, the awards were handed out to: Petra Cooper, who received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture for her work as founder and CEO of Fifth Town Artisan Cheese Company, Prince Edward County’s newest cheese factory; Peggy deWitt, who received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Arts and Culture for her work as owner of Paper Images Gallery and her reputation as the “County Photographer;” and Honey King who received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism, recognizing her efforts to foster awareness of Prince Edward County as a compelling destination.

Congratulations and all the best to our Taste the County winners and thanks to all of those who came out to celebrate them!

Touring the Arts Trail, Part Two

2008-11-14T17:55:00.008-05:00

Today, on yet another gorgeous fall day, the Taste team set out on the second part of its tour of the Arts Trail.

First stop was Mary J. Brett Originals, where Mary gave a grand tour of her gallery/home bedecked top to bottom with her colourful and eclectic work. From silk scarves to collages and paintings, bright colours greeted us everywhere we looked. Before we left, Mary told us that she and photographer Peggy deWitt are working on a project together and promised details would follow in the New Year. We look forward to finding out what they are up to and promise to share info with you as we receive it.

At Mad Dog Gallery, owner Anne House introduced us to encaustic painter Susan Wallis, who was busy unpacking for an upcoming show. While Susan finished her work, Anne gave us a tour of the current exhibit featuring works by John Castle, Celia Sage and Andrew King to name just a few. She also invited us to the upcoming Good Things in Small Packages, a show which will run until Christmas.

Down the road in Cherry Valley, we admired the work of the self-professed "Bald Photographer," Graham Davies, and even got to see images from his latest project. Staged at Picton’s now closed Royal Hotel, the black and white prints feature members of the Marysburgh Mummers theatrical company in period dress, recalling not only times passed, but also the building’s colourful history.

Next it was on to painter Ron Pickering’ Red Roof Gallery and though he was away teaching, his wife Lynn made us feel right at home. After admiring her husband’s scenic watercolours (and his view of Adolphus Reach), we left Lynn and continued on to Picton and our final stop of the day, Arts on Main. At the artist-run gallery, we chatted with artist on duty Andrew Innes and took in the latest exhibit, which just launched this week. From woven scarves and folk art to jewellery and paintings, the show features work by a diverse group of County artists. And while we could go on and on and describe it in more detail…we think you should check it out and see for yourself!

Coming Soon: Part Three of our Arts Trail tour.

Rednersville Road Culture Crawl

2008-11-13T11:19:00.017-05:00

Last evening, after a busy day at the office, the Taste team headed out to attend the Cultural Crawl on Rednersville Road.

Hosted by the Cultural Round Table, a group of people who represent a wide variety of cultural constituencies in Prince Edward County, the Crawl is the second a series, the first of which took place in Picton last July.

Kicked off at Oeno Gallery, about 20 people mingled and sipped County wine while taking in the works of numerous artists including those of Sylvain Louis-Seize. Created from materials including oil, tar, metals and acid, Louis-Seize’s works feature moody depictions of industrial landscapes sealed under a glossy coat of resin.

Before moving on to the next location, Oeno co-owner Carlyn Moulton spoke to the group about the County’s thriving cultural community, particularly its happy marriage of fine food, art and wine, referring to the region as Canada’s Tuscany.

Next it was on to Albury Church, the oldest nondenominational church in Ontario, which recently celebrated the opening of a new entrance whose ultimate goal is to be fully accessible. While the crowd admired its charming cornflower blue sanctuary, they learned a little of the church’s history including how it got its name. In the 19th century when the Peck family gave the land to Ameliasburgh it was under the stipulation that it be used to house a church, a school and a cemetery where anyone could be buried…hence the name, a fusion of the words “all” and “bury.”

Down the road at cozy Sweet Water Cabin, owner Janice Hubbs gave a fire-side talk. Over coffee and homemade oatmeal cookies (made with maple syrup, of course!), Janice shared stories and folklore about the circa 1830 cabin’s origin in Lanark County and the scores of maple-related artifacts it now houses. We learned about everything from sugar tongs and shavers to the habits of fishers — one of the very few animals who prey on porcupines.

Unfortunately, none of the Taste group could make it to potluck dinner at the Crawl’s final stop, the Art House Gallery. Formerly the Rednersville United Church, the space now is open to hosting everything from art classes to small scale musical performances.

For more information about the Cultural Round Table (including upcoming Culture Crawls), be sure to check out the organization’s website, www.culturalroundtable.ca.

Countylicious, a New Family Tradition

2008-11-12T09:04:00.008-05:00

Last night my family travelled from Cobourg to the west and Kingston to the east to meet for a Countylicious evening at the Merrill Inn. Whether they ordered the cabbage rolls with smoked pork rib, sauerkraut and sausage or the smoked trout with beet and apple salad, the crispy roasted Cornish hen with County succotash or the seared beef striploin medallion with blue cheese scented potato gratin and oxtail ravioli, everyone raved about the food and the portions, which were generous. Everyone left happy and full, and with a promise to meet again come spring to discover another participating Countylicious eatery.

Thanks to the Merrill crew for the lovely evening!

Wellington AGM Hosts Heritage Cultural Planner

2008-11-07T08:47:00.010-05:00

Last night, Grace and Kathy attended the Wellington and District Business Association AGM and heard of the efforts the WDBA has made in getting their website off the ground, a tourism kiosk set up, as well as a report back from attendance at the Villages and Hamlets meeting held by Prince Edward County's Street Smart Committee.

Guest speakers attended from Burnett Thorne Cultural Tourism of Kingston — a company devoted to heritage community planning and tourism product development. They spoke of their work in Cambridge, Ontario, as well as developing the Rideau Heritage Route, a cultural corridor connecting Kingston the Ottawa, which was designated last week by National Geographic as the #2 heritage site in the world.

Touring the Arts Trail, Part One

2008-11-06T13:44:00.026-05:00

Yesterday the Taste team hopped in the car and headed out to discover firsthand Prince Edward County's newest adventure, the Arts Trail, which officially launched in August 2008. With only four hours and 200+ kilometres to cover, it was quickly decided to tackle the trail in two, maybe even three, stages.

Warm and sunny, the weather was the perfect backdrop for the first part of our adventure, which began at the SideStreet Gallery on Wellington's main drag. After chatting with artist Jane Rutter and admiring her coasters embellished with images of vintage canning labels, we headed down the street to Suites-on-the-Lake Studio, home of painter Joanna McFarland. Joanna showed us her studio and art (including her haunting beach walkers series) and even gave us a tour of the guestrooms of her and her husband Stewart's lovely B & B property.

Around the corner, at Ganders Bed & Breakfast (another stunning waterfront property) we had the chance to talk with painter Carol Gander who, along with her husband Jeremy, invited us in to discover her work -- evocative depictions of land- and beach-scapes done in oil and acrylic.

Next it was off to Wellington Pottery where Maggie Murdoch and David Drown allowed us to explore their two-storey studio/gallery chock-full of their functional porcelain pottery. Shelves were lined with everything from botanically inspired teapots to plates and cups whose soft colours and organic lines bring to mind an Eastern aesthetic.

Across the street in painter Margaret McFetridge's studio, it was summery days and fresh cut flowers that were invoked by colourful oversized canvases of red poppies, pink geraniums and yellow daffodils. Her gallery (housed in the eponymous Bloomin' Barn) was closed down for the season, but Margaret let us take a peek anyway...consensus among our group was that the space definitely demands a another visit come next season.

Located in Wellington's Old Feed Mill, Armstrong Glassworks was full of glass vases, bowls and ornaments catching the sunlight. Craftsman Mark Armstrong was on hand and happily gave us a tour that included the space that will soon house his hot glass studio (one more reason to check out the trail again next season).

Finally, we headed north to Oeno Gallery and admired the artwork of various artists and media and chatted with co-owner Carlyn Moulton about the gallery's upcoming relocation to its new home on the property of Huff Estates Winery. (Since the current gallery, with its soaring spaces and abundance of natural light, seems like the ideal venue for Oeno's lengthy roster of artists, we're curious to see what the new space will look like.)

Heading back to the office, the team agreed that our tour was off to a great start. Not only was everyone welcoming, but the artwork was inspirational. Many thanks to everyone we met along the way! We can't wait to set off on Part Two of our journey...

Welcome!

2008-11-06T12:44:00.002-05:00

In an effort to let everyone who wants to know what we’re up to, Taste the County has decided to launch its very own blog. Featuring everything from practical information on upcoming events such as Maple in the County (March 28 and 29, 2009, which will be here before you know it!) to activities, such as our recent tour of the Arts Trail, it will be your window into our office...hopefully you'll enjoy the view!