World Reknown Author makes Belleville home

I was photographing a venue in Belleville early this afternoon when my gaze turned to a face I know well.

“Peter C. Newman?”, I asked the gentleman.

“Yes”, he hesitated.

The renown author and I began to exchange information related to contemporaries we knew in common.  He apprised me of his current work in progress, a book on the United Empire Loyalists; he could not have picked a better repository than Belleville for Loyalist history. Newman is driven by a conviction Loyalist history is widly fascinating, yet poorly chronicled.

Newman spinned bestselling yarns on The Canadian Establishment, Conrad Black, Izzy Sharpe and a cast of eccentric magnates, maintaining a loyal audience over decades.

This urban worldly intellect and enormous talent, settled here in Belleville two years ago.

“I left the rat race”, explaining my own exodus from Toronto’s corporate world. “Me too”, he echoed.

Quinte just became much more interesting to me.

QuinteALIVE awards 3 in Belleville

Rachel Comeau

The results are in!

Rachel Comeau, artist and Board Member of the Quinte Arts Council and founder of “Art for Everyone”, and, Debbie Aide, artist and 30-year engraver at Ray and Jim’s, Belleville, are our Distinguished Judges for Quinte Alive’s second leg of the Belleville High School Students’ Art Contest, “When I close my eyes“.

Debbie Aide

Comeau and Aide scaled Downtown Belleville several times agreeing on the top three winners, unaware of the winners in the first leg. The new trio of winners are different from those awarded by DBIA’s judges; this means more students can be encouraged.

63 pieces of student art are still on display until May 31st in 35 storefront locations in Downtown Belleville (you can get the map from the DBIA office on Front Street).

Without much further ado, here are Quinte Alive’s Winners and a look at the winning piece:

Shrine Within by Fiona Stanners

FIRST PLACE

Shrine Within, Fiber Art Sculpture, By Fiona Stanners – Located at Geen’s Pharmacy at 276 Front Street

SECOND PLACE

Inner Beauty/Inner Turmoil, Computer Graphic, By Janice Burton – Located at Fusion & Glamour Junkie at 250 Front Street

THIRD PLACE

Through the Looking Glass, Mixed Media, By Joshua Tweedy – Located at Scalliwag Toys at 302 Front Street

STAY-TUNED for our presentation event, including awards and gift certificates from Barratt’s, Scalliwag and Stephen License and more images and details on the works.

Congratulations Fiona, Janice and Joshua! We look forward to meeting you in person.

ALERT : Earthquake hits Quinte

At 9:45 this morning the building I was in started to make clicks not unlike a June bug on the loose; then, everything shook furniture, lamps and me! I suspected it was at least a 4.0 from previous experience. Lo and behold it was a 5.2! The epicentre being on the edge of Quebec probably felt more like a 4.0 here. 5.2 is a serious number. I did not feel the reported aftershock of 4.1.

The last earthquake we experienced was during the 2011 Toronto G20; a 5.5 struck and was downgraded to a 5.

Interesting that NOAA is expecting an X-flare from the sun today, a CME (coronal mass ejection). The timing is uncanny.

Here is the notice from  Natural Resources Canada regarding the EQ.

Hope Springs – Again

Hope Stone on opening day, Vivacious “2.0″

Vivacious, the fledgling ladies’ fashion store, Trenton, is now reconstituted for women of all sizes. The new digs measuring 2, 450 square feet (3 times larger than the former store) are covered from one end to the other with dresses, tops, jackets, capris, slacks, nightgowns, scarves, sandals, purses, jewelry and hats.

Key suppliers from Montreal, Artex and Modes Gitanes, offer a colourful, vogue palette to customers–and the price point is within reach of most budgets. This Spring is truly rich in colours and style–refreshing after so many years of bland design across the fashion world.

Hope Stone blends into entry display

Hope Stone, Founder, has had little sleep of late, feverishly working to make the official opening day deadline and ribbon-cutting event with Mayor Williams. The morning was filled to the brim with loyal customers eager to experience Hope’s new creations.

This store is substantive in its design and unique procurement strategy–almost all items are sourced from Canada.  Vivacious truly offers an alternative to customers tired of cookie-cutter, big chain designs (manufactured in China or Bangladesh); customers now clearly care about these issues.

For Trentonians, a trip to Vivacious will save on gas formerly spent going to “the mall”. Staying downtown Trenton for a shopping experience is increasingly making sense–shops, bistros, salons offering a rich alternative near home.

Following, enjoy a virtual shopping tour.

New store just beyond the threshold

Assistant Manager, Erin Keats, packages purchases

All leather sandals for just $60 – works of art

Chandeliers add a nice touch

A match-up event : capris meet halter top

The most colourful, cheerful season in recent memory

Get outta town! Soothe your soul.

The Lighthouse at Meyer’s Pier

On the South end of Belleville, the Waterfront Trail and its landmarks, can feed the soul. After a hard day, we recommend you get in the car and find your way to this unending wonder. As the sun begins to set the colors are rich, the vistas breathtaking. Jane Forrester Park, Meyers Pier, Duffer’s parkette, Memory Lane and the long, undulating Waterfront Trail peppered with picnic tables and benches offer respite from the madness. There is no disputing the sound of water lapping the shore contributes a great deal to inner peace. Enjoy the gallery shot just hours ago.

Meyer’s Pier

Turtles and ducks at Memory Lane park

Looking through the weeping willows at Memory Lane

Memory Lane arch

Picnic area worthy of Gatsby, just across Memory Lane-Bring the croquet

Parkette just east of Meyers Pier-A full menu served by Duffers snack bar adjoins

 

The Saturday Brighton roooaaared

 

The Parade of Champions passed throgh Brighton last Saturday. Quite a site! These are just few of the stock cars in the parade. Proceeds go to the Fare Share Food Bank.

At 7:00 pm these Champions kick-started the Brighton Speedway’s season.

Social Scene : Doug Comeau shark infested soiree

Doug Comeau’s, “Breaking the surf”, graphite and colored pencil original (guests are reflected in the glass)

“I love sharks”, exclaimed Angela Smiley, as she expounded on their erroneous public image. The backdrop to our conversation featured Doug Comeau’s frightening representation of a shark apparently ready-to-feast (shown above).

“The Magic Pencil” is Comeau’s Solo Exhibition of new, original pieces, including his first sculpture. Capped a la Crocodile Dundee, Comeau greeted guests in this private showing encircled by his works. The place was packed like sardines (thank God the sharks were on paper!).

Vintage Doug Comeau smile

Comeau’s latest is clearly his “marine period’, whales, sharks and turtles captured by graphite pencil with such skill one has to peer closely to see the pencil strokes and dispel the possibility that we are looking at photographs. The spatial tension and movement in the compositions are noteworthy.

It was for all intents and purposes a casual affair; but, there was something a little “uppetty” about the event. The largest winery in the County, the Casa-Dea Estates, served an excellent red Gamay and  Pinot Gris. Colin Conroy, owner of the snazziest cafe in the region, The Grind, hosted the affair; the fruit kabobs replete with chocolate dipped strawberries were a nice touch. A young angel from Brighton sang “Hallelujah”, the Leonard Cohen version. Add to that a retinue of “Who’s Who” on a beautiful warm evening and you have the makings of a fine soiree. Enjoy the gallery of photos.

Colin Conroy and everyone’s beloved Jessica

Dan Koets (L), Colin Conroy and John Smiley (R)

An angel from Brighton sings

Poster of the event featuring, “Up for air”, Graphite Original

Two guests overwhelmed by the works

Doug engaged with friend and fan

The Britannia goes to Brandy

Brandy Brown (L) at the opening of her Bloomfield location last Christmas

 

For some time the Britannia, a former restaurant on Highway 2, Trenton, remained vacant while many businesses vied for this precious real estate. Now it’s official: OffTheHook, the Trenton women’s apparel shop owned and operated by Brandy Brown is the victor. The ink is dry on the deal. Keys are in hand.

Brandy can now leave behind the ghosts of the current location, which have kept some customers from discovering the treasures within. This Davis and Water Street location has a strange history; but, the success of OffTheHook redeemed it, until now. The new digs are better suited to the stylish OffTheHook and its discriminating customers.

The interiors of the former Britannia are already renovated, in pristine condition, ready for OffTheHook dresses, hats, scarves and jewelry. There is no remnant of a restaurant to be seen.

The Brittannia already donning the new sign

Brandy is so enthusiastic, she is painting the doors this weekend. Count on the interior color palette to change from its former pink walls to more classic, rich colors.

The grand opening event is targeted for June; but, the new location will be thriving with customers within a few weeks.

Hail Britannia! You are now Off-The-Hook–literally.

New Location: 168 Dundas Street East  Current Tel: 613.242.5165

Another burning! 4 businesses go down

The little strip mall on Highway 2, just West of downtown Trenton, goes down in flames. The Hilltop Restaurant, a beloved haunt of the breakfast and lunch crowd is burned inside-out; owner and Chef, Rosie, stood by watching. There was no missing Rosie’s sad, moist eyes.

The Swap and Sell suffered no less damage. Carm’s Pools just starting the season has suffered so much smoke damage that entry will be restricted; we are all counting our blessings that the chlorine inside was untouched. I cannot speak for the state of the convenience store; but, I am on good report, they own the mall. They also resided above the store and I imagine they are for the time being homeless. Very sad indeed.

Storefronts of Swap n Sell and The Hilltop

“There’s been some electrical problems for some time”, business owners shared with me. This is not the outcome of an investigation; but, it is a suspicion on the part of its victims.

We can only hope that insurance claims will be swift and reconstruction of these established businesses will begin soon.

Our hearts go out to our friends in these businesses.

Who is plotting to close the Y?

Much of Brighton is up in arms because the Y is scheduled for closing this October, at the end of its lease. There is no doubt the Trenton Y with its pool has caused attrition and resulted in lost revenues; however, the Brighton Y is still a major contributor to local health and integral to its social dynamics.

The Brighton community is substantially senior–as people age they tend to be less ambulatory. Folks may opine, their tax dollars are not well spent if they don’t use the Y; many no longer have children attending school, yet this is in the tax expenditures. My point is, it’s about what makes a community thrive. Considering other locals, you cannot expect Brighton teenagers to bike-it to Trenton; this is another segment that will suffer this loss.

One of the petitioners said, “it’s a marketing problem”. I agree. There is nothing missing in this lovely club. The equipment is ostensibly new, the trainers are good, the venue is spotless, the programs are great, the parking is ample. And its close-by!

I’ve seen the government waste more money on oddities. Remember this one? The Harper government paid $2 million to spruce up Deerhurst Resort for the G8 meeting in June 2010, including $1,600 to move a bed and $3,500 to adjust light fixtures (this is not a Harper bash) . In fact, have a look at this list of odd Canadian expenditures from Maclean’s.

Here is the petition for you to sign.

Among the petitioners, this comment resonates:

I am very concerned with keeping a good level of health and fitness which the Y has enabled me to do in my retirement. We have an excellent group of instructors who offer a great variety of classes to all ages groups. The Y has also given me a chance to meet and become friends with a number of ladies who attend these classes. We love to have a coffee at a local coffee shop so support the local businesses. I should hope the council members might consider the benefits of this very community minded facility.

Brighton Council is hearing from the public on May 6th. You may wish to show up and voice your opinion.

Now who wants to call us to get this marketing thing revved up?

Brighton YMCA Hall of Fame (June is a mega star- Middle row, right)

 

Restaurant Reviews: Thai Sushi

“Tempura Rainbow” : tuna, salmon, butterfish & shrimp

QuinteALIVE has covered restaurants and food often; but, now we are launching “Restaurant Reviews”, QuinteALIVE’s official restaurant reviews of  venues in the Quinte region. These are not paid reviews; they are from the heart–or rather, the palate. Today, we are featuring the excellent, Thai Sushi, Front Street, Trenton (Quinte West).

Ken Chen, a former Chef with a Chinese heritage hailing from Toronto , opened Thai Sushi in Spring 2009.  This beautiful, serene venue, features  Japanese, Chinese and Thai dishes. Chen is clear to say it is not “fusion”; but, “more than sushi”.

These days, taste matters; but, presentation “kicks it up a notch”, quoting the unforgettable words of Chef Emeril Lagasse. Chef Chen does “kick it up” where spices are concerned; however, his art is indisputable. I was impressed by the speed with which Chen whipped up dishes from scratch into compositions on plates that seemed more like canvasses. I almost hated to disrupt the contents therein.

Fresh Mango Salad

The meal began with Fresh Mango Salad in Chen’s own special dressing including lime juice, fish sauce and dry onion. This salad is a cure for all ills; I called it a “bowl of health and vitamins” by virtue of its crisp, fresh ingredients including mangoes, peppers, mushrooms and onions sprinkled with cashews.

Before I had time to finish said appetizer, the first entree, Tempura Rainbow (shown above), mixed sashimi on top of shrimp tempura maki, arrived at my table. I gasped as I viewed its loveliness. My palate had no less catharsis; the combination of flavors and freshness of this marine medley (which seemed to melt when consumed) was a delight to my tired taste buds. For extra zing, I added a little ginger with each bite.

“American Eagle” : BBQ eel, avocado, fish eggs, tempura shrimp and crab meat

On its heels, the American Eagle joined the fare (this is a name given by a customer, claiming it resembled the bird). In my opinion, it looks more like a caterpillar on the run. This architectural work complete with dip art includes BBQ’d eel, avocado, fish eggs, tempura shrimp and crab meat. Chef Chen was clearly building the experience toward a crescendo. Lo and behold General Tao entered the scene.

Thai General Tao Chicken, a favorite of the infamous General, spicy chicken breast pieces stir-fried with Thai chili and garlic served on a bed of crisp broccoli was a surprise. I would never have ordered this on my own; but, it was bursting with flavour. Chef Chen reports that this is the most requested dish; it is clear why it leads the pack. I could not wait to get home and finish what remained of this dish in my take-out package.

“Thai General Tao chicken”

The finale, Curry Pumpkin Soup, famous in the immediate area, was prepared special for me, since it was already sold-out. It is among my top five dishes to enjoy in the entire region. This soup features the predictable thickness of a pumpkin soup; but, the sweet and spicy blend with a hint of basil, garlic, chili and coconut milk curry draws groans from everyone, especially me. This soup could truly win ribbons at the world level.

Curry Pumpkin Soup

The whole meal was accompanied by steeped Popped Rice Japanese Tea. This tea is not acidic like most teas, offering a nice counter-balance to the spices and flavours in this feast.

Service is exceptional–this is endemic to the culture; however, endless smiles and respect in this day and age are hard to come by. It is difficult not to feel like royalty in Thai Sushi. If I were to trigger a star system, Chef Chen’s efforts get five big ones.

Where: 22 Front Street, Downtown Trenton (back of waterfront), Ontario  Tel: 613.965.6688 (also take-out)

Mon-Thu : 11am to 10pm  Fri-Sat : 11am – 10:30pm  Sun: 11am to 10pm

VA-VA VOOM Vivacious !

Behind the window on the left, the new Vivacious is evolving in secrecy, quickly. On the right, the current Vivacious is bubbling with customers.

Just over a year ago, former realtor Hope Stone, opened a trendy fashion store for plus size women on Main Street, Trenton. She has appealed to a large audience (no pun intended) very successfully, procuring a beautiful, affordable selection for women who seek affordable, better than big-box fare. Now, the great news comes to QuinteALIVE, Vivacious is trippling its size and will cater to the medium set too.

The moments entrepreneurs surely enjoy the most are the early creative stages, where one is planning, building and decorating.

Here is one of Trenton’s most vivacious couples, Hope and Brad, fast at work for an early May launch, Vivacious exponential 3.

Inset left, our Trenton Fashion Diva, Hope Stone, dressed just right for the occasion.

Inset right, husband Brad holds up walls–not!–shows off the new large dressing rooms in progress.

Brad’s mom, a fashion-plate herself, holds the fort at the current store next door. “We carry mostly Canadian made products and our customers really appreciate that”, she states. Indeed, this is a driver in all my shopping decisions.

We await the early May launch.

THE NEW ADDRESS: 101 Dundas St.West, Trenton (where the Sears store used to be). TEL: 613.394.2200  WEB: iamvivacious.com

Current store before the big move

 

Healthy Living Expo Gallery : healthy is beautiful!

Jenna Doornbos, Owner, Nutrition House, Quinte Mall

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Stephen Lippitt, Doctor of Chiropractic; Owner, Chiropractic Generation

Shawna Furney and Shaunna Pudlis, Arbonne Independent Consultants

Jacqui Maybee (L) and Sue O’Ray, Co-Founders, Rocia

Brandy Brown, Founder, OffTheHook

Stay-tuned for details. This is just to whet your palate.

Health and fun into one event

Amy Doyle, Founder,The Healthy Living Expo

“I plan and I sell”, ebullient host Amy Doyle states as she describes the many months it takes to launch, “The Healthy Living Expo“. There is no denying that this former Director of Advertising at The Intelligencer is a force to be reckoned with; at the end of Day 1 juggling every aspect of this large event, she remains energetic and fully-engaged.

“I attended the Rotary International Conference in Montreal years ago” and reflected at the time, “I can do that!” From thought to action, Doyle launched The Health and Fitness Expo in 2009 (now re-branded The Healthy Living Expo). Between annual events, Doyle publishes the quarterly, Healthy Living Now, in the Belleville region with a distribution of 15,000 coupled with an on-line version.

Doyle, wife and mother of two boys, has plans underway to expand to Kingston this year. It is truly striking to watch women with faith in their abilities jettison themselves into the ranks of “movers and shakers”. Doyle has clearly made the cut.

The event continues tomorrow, Sunday April 21st, 9am – 4pm, at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre, Cannifton Road, Belleville. For those with health issues or prevention in mind, this is the event to attend. The collective Exhibitors offer a 360 view of natural health.

Belleville’s Hammerton hits Nashville

Our own D’arcy Hammerton, Belleville, was commissioned to write and perform this song, “Don’t Walk Away”, to address child abuse. Just beautiful!

D’Arcy was approached by the Carl Perkins Centre and Bluesports outdoors, Nashville, to write a song for prevention of child abuse and just did a live interview with CJBQ on Tuesday. The Centre will be playing, “Don’t Walk Away”, at their convention next Friday.

Hammerton is clearly on the rise! Hope the Empire is smart enough to book him soon.

Getting to well

Tomorrow and Sunday, an important event is taking place at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre, Cannifton Road, Belleville.

“The Healthy Living Expo” is a worthwhile spend of one’s time. Anytime you can learn new ways to beat our physical degradation is time well spent.

Many valuable exhibitors and speakers are featured.

QuinteALIVE will be there to chronicle and report.

Entrance: $5 each for one day or $8 for the two days.

Today is QuinteALIVE’s first anniversary

It has been such a pleasure to serve you dear Quintonians. Thank you for your support, your follows, your subscriptions and your love and appreciation. Our second year begins tomorrow and we promise to enrich the QuinteALIVE experience.

Treemaggedon

Downed trees await clean-up crews

Strange sounds woke me through the night. I thought critters made it to the attic. In the morning, I heard popping sounds and wondered why neighbors might be hunting game on such an awful day. In fact, it was no other than ice effecting its wrath across the region. As ice weighs down our trees, now whipping the house and cracking in the forest behind, I ready for another thaw and anti-deluvian period.

Thank you nature, for celebrating QuinteALIVE’s 1st anniversary with such party favors!

Vampiric feeder

Arborist no longer required

Big day for Canadian military aerospace at 8-Wing

Sargeant Wes Henderson (left) views radar surveillance over region in real time with Chris Alexander and Rick Norlock (right).

At 11:30 this morning, dignitaries, military leaders and we “scrummers” were crammed into a conference room like rabbits in a hutch. There was no pomp; yet, the disclosure of yet another $300 million toward technology, avionics and radar surveillance warranted it. Such is the humble, authentic nature of our military folks.

Colonel Friday introduced Chris Alexander, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, presenting on behalf of the Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, Q.C., Associate Minister of National Defence and MP for Delta-Richmond-East, B.C. Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland-Quinte West and John Williams, Mayor of Quinte West were also present.

The message repeated, “[how good economically]” these investments would be for Canada’s communities. It seems that military spending increasingly contributes to GDPs across our modern world.

One contract for avionics upgrading on the CC-130H Hercules fleet worth $225 million was awarded to a firm in Abbotsford, B.C., Cascade Aerospace Inc. Chief in its aim, the contract bundles several smaller contracts under the management of Cascade, offering more cost effectiveness; this will make Cascade the prime service provider for avionics.

Chris Alexander, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence

Another contract worth $75.5 million to upgrade radar surveillance was awarded to a German firm, Cassidian. Immediately, I wondered why this contract was not awarded to CAE, our venerable Canadian aerospace leader, headquartered in Montreal. On the heels of my concern, Alexander explained that this is all “[business-as-usual]“, that it was “competitively awarded”. The Department states that through the IRB Policy (Industrial Regional Benefits) both corporations are required to place business activities with Canadian industry. The Royal Bank outsourcing fiasco looms in everyone’s mind; “interdependence” is not as popular as leaders would like to think. Outsourcing is becoming a sore point in these economic times.

The radar replacement project will occur over three to four years, at seven new area surveillance radar and secondary radar systems at 3 Wing, Bagotville, Quebec; 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta; 5 Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador; 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario; 14 Wing Greenwood, Nova Scotia; and 19 Wing Comox, B.C.

On the matter of escalating investment in our Defences people in the Quinte Community ($500 million in the last 30 days) ask, “What is going on?”. 8-Wing by appearance alone is quickly evolving into a massive, state-of-the-art operation. This otherwise peacekeeping nation is looking ready for a whole lot of “peacekeeping”.

Unforgettable Kelly enters talking

“Make sure you tell them it’s all homemade “, reinforced Kelly Archer, Founder of Kelly’s Catering Kitchens. There is no command in her voice, no guile–just enthusiasm. Kelly is infectious.

Saturday, I drove to the furthest Northeast edge of Belleville, so far into hinterland that street signs announced, “Caves and caverns of Tyendinaga”. I visited Kelly to chronicle the early days of her catering business for our wedding video and for content here. Her business is currently housed within the bowels of her home; but, it is impressive in its sparkling 600 sq. ft. layout. Her former family room is now a well-appointed kitchen replete with modern appliances, sinks, shelves stacked with cooking implements and supplies, and, a desk with computer to keep track of it all.

Kelly’s avatar in her corporate identity : true to form

Last December, this young mother of three, Karlee-13, Tommie-9 and Tavish-7, and wife to husband Tom, launched Kelly’s with support from Trenval. The organization offers Kelly’s funding, marketing and mentoring until August 2013 when she will be cut loose to fly solo.

“Homemade” is this brand’s point-of-difference, a feature that will resonate with customers seeking healthy fare. Everything is made from scratch; I can attest there were no pre-mixed containers within site.

The house bubbled over with activity with Kelly as conductor; I don’t remember having so much fun. Kelly and her two support staff, Debbie  (sister-in-law) and June (Carter look-alike), were preparing volumes of trays for an event only hours away. Amidst a cacophony of quips between us four women present and children entering and leaving the scene, we produced photos, sound recordings and content without missing a beat.

A jar of Kelly’s famous homemade blackberry jam on my counter will say, “Good morning”, for weeks to come.

Bonne chance, Chef Kelly!

How to reach Kelly’s : Tel 613-848-5802  eMail kelly.9@hotmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellysCateringKitchens

Belleville Debators now wandering aimlessly

Wharf Street Debating Club as it appeared Spring 2013

By Dmitrios Otis, Contributing Writer

Club now cleared from site

When I recently learned of the fated demolition of the venerable Wharf Street Debating Club building, I immediately rushed out to snap a few pics of the historic structure (easily done as I live more or less across the street.) My father commented that there was “no rush” as it would be “months before they tear it down.” Well, as the “after” shot attests – the sentence was effected immediately! Too bad, as the city recently invested $5,000 in keeping it around for a while. But evidently sometimes the wheels turn fast. So I’m glad I grabbed the shots when I did.  It may not be the Hotel Quinte, but it is a little piece of Belleville architectural heritage lost.

Fortunately, this heritage was chronicled in the book Dockside Democracy: Women, Foster Ward, & The Wharf Street Debating Club (2000) by C.W. Hunt, a copy of which I recently found nestled amidst vintage hats at Boretski Gallery on Front Street. Apparently the multi-renovated building started out as a boathouse in the early part of the last century, no surprise as the Club hangs—that is, hung—out over the Victoria Park harbour.

But at least the tree in front of the building survived—it can be seen as a sapling in a pre-1990 photo facing p. 102 of Hunt’s book. Trees are heritage too!

April 1st Headlines

HEADLINES FOR APRIL 1st:

Vatican Surplus : Pope Francis to give $5 to all who tweet him.

Harper to host public panda bear sleepover at 24 Sussex

Rashotte Coup : Brad and Angelina to attend Empire Rockfest

Captain George’s Downtown Trenton serving mermaid tail

Story at 11.

8-Wing Captain makes Sens headlines

Don Cherry & Captain Steven Dieter, 8-Wing (click image to play)

http://video.senators.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=232716&catid=-6

Finally, someone more decorated than Don Cherry at the game. Boy that lion sure likes Captain Dieter!

Mystery building goes up Quinte West

Analytics on our site show the public is searching for answers to a mystery and the number of enquiries are climbing.

Last November this terrain at North Murray Industrial Park featured earth movement only; now, this shell of a building is up. So what’s up?

The mystery of this “company” that will allegedly employ 250-300 endures. Who is it? Why did public officials “sign a non-disclosure agreement”  holding back information from the public? Huh?

North Murray Industrial Park – East side at Hamilton Rd.

Chatter is coming full circle amongst trades and their circles that it is a Costco distribution centre; this type of work is typical to Cooper Construction. The rumour could be poppycock. I have heard rumours of people being dead who are alive; so, we approach this carefully.

Frankly, I think the secrecy is more captivating than the identity.

Here our story from last November.

O Belle, Belle! Wherefore art thou?

High School students in the Quinte Region are invited to compete in Belleville’s 2nd Annual Downtown Belleville Student Art Show, “When I close My Eyes.” Yet another wonderful event organized by the Belleville DBIA.

QuinteALIVE will join in the competition, as additional judges–adding more chances to win. We judged alongside the public in the Downtown soup competition last February; it was great fun!  Read the story here.

QuinteALIVE prizes will includes: An engraved trophy, news coverage here including your creation and gift certificates.

In the event poster below you can view the drawing submitted by Wendy Wen. The competition is in full color; this is just one creative expression!

You can get details AND sign-up here

Valentine’s saddest day

Al Valentine, Manager,  Zellers, Trenton–bare shelves

“I don’t know how to feel”, Al Valentine feigned, stoically. This affable man has managed Zellers in Trenton for four years. Previously, he ran the Cobourg store for 14 years; add to that another 17 years with the mothership. Much of Valentine’s life is now taking a new direction.

Shopping at Zellers today, on its second to last day of existence, reminded me of the seagulls at the marina, nose-diving for crumbs that have fallen off the picnic tables. A man interrupted us in our interview to negotiate Al down to 95% off (80% markdown), relentlessly; neither of us shared his enthusiasm. If only people would consider how each day, this store assembled a family of sorts, employees and customers, who made Zellers a familiar, friendly place. Hearts are clearly aching.

“We’re pretty disappointed”, he conceded as I prodded, “but Hudson’s Bay has treated us very kindly”.

“I will take the summer off, travel to Arizona and manage my rental properties”, Valentine declares. “This Saturday evening I will join a friend, the Manager of Zellers in Cobourg and reminisce”.

“I have to work, not because I need to; but, because I want to”, he muses. “I will stay in retail. A this point Valentine wanders into the dynamics of retail and its changing seasons; this is a domain clearly bred in his bones.

“Saturday will be tough; we are closing mid-afternoon”, he states with a hint of gloom. All Zellers in Canada are closing in unison on March 30th.

Goodbye Zellers, Ol’ Canadian friend. Trenton and Belleville will miss you.

We’ll see you in a new home soon, Al.

WiFi Wake-up Call

It’s time to talk about a looming pet peeve.

“All over U.S. you can get WiFi–everywhere”, said the man sitting at the Starbucks table a few feet from me. The discussion erupted over how slow (as molasses) their WiFi is. We watched as our mutual Twitter accounts half-loaded over five minutes. I often hear from staff that someone is “probably downloading movies”. I circumvented the venue to see if this was true, was met with shaking heads of people waiting, waiting for pages to load.  Frankly, the speed seemed slower than the “information superhighway” of the early 90s.

For me, the various WiFi spots are critical. I am always on the move meeting, writing… This is the case with many folks. My allegiance has to be with those who offer this service at sonic speed; because in fact, the internet underpins everything I do. In this day and age you should be able to be in touch everywhere, anytime.

“The minute you cross the border in Florida you can get WiFi’, said another man in Quinte West.

I have ventured into this territory; so, it begs that we rate a few WiFi spots available to local customers in the region.

#1Fastest Connection : Captain George’s, Downtown Trenton

Not only is it the fastest, the atmosphere is cheerful with lots of TVs, impeccable fresh food and speedy table service. (The Greek salad is exceptional, all home made, fresh cut.)

Also #1 Fastest Connection (it’s a tie): The Boathouse Restaurant, Meyer’s Pier, Belleville

Nice to know the Bay of Quinte brushes the boards under your feet while your surf (pun intended).

#2 Second Fastest Connection: eCafe, Downtown Belleville

This lovely cafe is stylish and with the password, you are flying.

#3 Third Fastest Connection: The Grind, Downtown Trenton

This cafe is Trenton’s stylish coffee shop. The music selection is always exceptional, the staff so cheerful.

#4 Fourth Fastest Connection: McDonald’s (Quinte region)

Not my cup of tea but their coffee is praised by many including “moi”. If you avoid the stores with childrens’ ball rooms the atmosphere is often peaceful.

#5 Second to worst speed: Tim Horton’s (Quinte Region)

Forget watching a YouTube video or even listening to a stream. The paint will dry faster. The sad thing is it is twice as fast as the next.

#6 The molasses of WiFi in the region: Starbucks, Uptown Belleville

Love the place, the barristas, the coffees; but, I turn into someone I don’t like because of the WiFi. The customers begin muttering to each other how bad it is, a mutiny of sorts developing; so the “Starbucks experience” is truly lost.

WiFi is not an option. It is a perfunctory offering for all hospitality services. Granted they need to turn tables and in so doing, deter long-term squatters; but, there are ways to limit use reasonably, without eating your own. Speed is not a service up for negotiation; this is the market today. Imagine a hotel without running water or televisions.

When I enter a venue alone I inquire if they have WiFi before committing to a table. I don’t want to read a book, stare at a wall, watch a game with no sound or fold napkins into origami.

Glad I got this off my chest.

Quinte loses beloved music man

Brett McNaueal with wife, Rosanna

“All good things must come to an end”, Brett McNaueal expressed with a warm smile. Upon reflection he acquiesced to my suggestion, “or a new beginning.”

Today was a somber, yet hopeful day. The beginnings of Spring offered a little comfort to friends of Arpeggio who attended the shop to say goodbye to its founder. The exclusive guitar shop opened its doors, September 2009. McNaueal was successful at drawing thousands of loyal patrons over the years and turning Arpeggio into a gathering place for the creatives, guitarists and performers in every genre; but, being far from the heart of well-heeled markets such as Nashville proved to be too daunting for Brett and his wife. The hours required to eek a return left little time to regenerate ; so after 3 1/2 years they are setting their sites on new beginnings. Parting was for all who attended, “sweet sorrow”.

Brett, The Guitar Man

McNaueal can build a guitar from bare wood into an instrument that extends the performance of human fingers. This guitar (inset) made of solid black walnut was finished by his own hands before adding components built by legendary “Pick-up Wizard”, Peter Leonard. McNaueal’s own wiring design includes acoustic functions such as Piezo pick-ups in the bridge components; it is very versatile, blending acoustic and electric. (It is up for grabs for a mere $1,499, well below market value, in the last week of the store’s life).

Brett, The Composer

Roll back multiple decades and discover the man who writes lyrics and music without cease. In fact, “Praying for Rain“, performed by Rascal Flatts, was written by McNaueal. Ain’t that somethin’! McNaueal, a man of “the faith”, writes both gospel and secular music, often performing his own.

Brett, The Singer

I have enjoyed McNaueal’s impromptu performances acapella; but, also his albums. His voice is rich and undulates from deep within effortlessly. It is truly beautiful to hear him sing from the depths.  Frankly, I was surprised such talent was restrained within four walls of a shop in Quinte West. McNaueal often said to me, “I can’t serve two masters” i.e. the people who need him daily and his own passion to perform; yet, he graces a few stages occasionally as Lead singer and Lead Guitarist.

Brett, The Friend

“Dear George, Remember no man is a failure who has friends”, angel Clarence stated in the final scene of, “It’s a wonderful life“. Brett is indeed a very successful man. He will be missed by throngs in the Quinte region.

McNaueal’s wife and best friend, Rosanna, has been a soulful presence and valuable asset to Arpeggio over the years, working long hours after a full day elsewhere. Now the couple looks forward to rest, regrouping and a long overdue holiday to Cuba.

“We will go where God leads us”, Rosanna reflected, “My dreams are his dreams.”

Enjoy QuinteALIVE’s interview of McNaueal, June 2012

And now a little something special for all Canadians:

Quinte gathers in Ireland – June 14

Beautiful Ireland, everywhere you look

Carlson Wagonlit Travel of Quinte West and Mix 97 have partnered up to join 60 citizens from the Quinte area for “The Gathering” in Ireland. 2013 is the year Ireland announces itself as perhaps never before to the world in this Gathering event.

Carolyn Linney, owner of the travel agency, has put together an 8-day itinerary that frankly blew the froth of my Guinness. It is a circular tour of Ireland which begins in Dublin, then travails through Kinsale, Killarney, Limerick, Galway and back. Oyster shucking and Irish Coffee lessons are in the mix.

Sean Kelly, Mix 97, and Carolyn will be your gracious hosts on a luxury bus and at each venue. All will be recorded, tweeted.

Stay-tuned for more info on how to win tickets; but, for those who can’t wait you can book seats now–20 are already gone.

Sounds like quite a shindig. “Jesus, Mary, Joseph!” (common Irish expression), I may just go to visit my ancestors including King Brian Buru, my exponentially great grandfather.

Comet PanSTARRS over Ontario

Missed this with thine own eyes last night! Arrgh! The “Sunset Comet” has been seen all over the planet. It is a superhero of comets having survived an encounter with the sun. Here is what NASA says about PanSTARRS:

For a comet, visiting the sun is risky business. Fierce solar heat vaporizes gases long frozen in the fragile nucleus, breaking up some comets and completely destroying others.

That’s why astronomers weren’t sure what would happen in early March when Comet Pan-STARRS, a first-time visitor to the inner solar system, dipped inside the orbit of Mercury. On March 10^th, NASA’s STEREO-B spacecraft watched as the comet made its closest approach to the sun only 28 million miles away. At that distance, the sun loomed 3 times wider and felt more than 10 times hotter than it does on Earth.

The comet survived.

Empire Rockfest Line-Up is building

1. REO Speedagon
2. Dennis De Young (Styx)
3. Night Ranger
4. David Wilcox
5. Matt Anderson
6. Journey
7. Kim Mitchell

Stay-Tuned for the final line-up.

Journey (PHOTO from Rockfest)

Empire Rockfest 2013 goes live July 25th, 26th and 27th in the lot adjacent to the Empire Theatre, Belleville; capacity is 3,600. Tickets go on sale March 16th (click the image above to go to the site).

Zwick’s gets cosmetic touch-up

This brand new sign was being installed as I photographed. Very nice on such a gloomy. For outsiders this is the park on the edge of the Bay of Quinte bridge in Belleville, where fairs and concerts take place.

Philip Zwick owned the farm that in modern Belleville, Ontario, overlooks Zwick Park and the bridge across the Bay of Quinte to Prince Edward County. He ran a ferry service across the bay from this location starting about 1807.

Read Philip Zwick’s history

Flash duo on Front St.

Jeanette Arsenault and Fraser Hardman broke into song as we ran into each other a second time on this beautiful day, Downtown Belleville. The two are “The Dazzlebugs” in a stage performance by the same name, April 6, Cafe Sans Souci.

Arsenault and Hardman will take you back to the 20s in this dinner theatre experience including Tin Pan Alley hits of the early 1900s.  The audience is invited to participate by dressing up in 20s style. Should be a fun night.

How I love to see enterprising, creative spirits like this in our midst.

The food show-stopper features Chef Greg Sheridan’s Grand Buffet with carved prime rib as the opening act.

Downtown Belleville is buzzing with creativity and brimming with talent.

Pioneering personified in Belleville

L to R : Penny Hendricks, Treasurer, Holly Dewar, Gary Magwood, Co-Chair, Heather Muir, Co-Chair, Lynn Braun, Programming (from the original team), Dug Stevenson, PR/Media .

If there ever was an award to be given to an ensemble cast it should go to the founders and volunteers of the DocFest Committee, AKA Belleville Downtown International Documentary Film Festival. Now that this event is behind us accolades are due.

I love this photo because it is clear the team enjoys convivial banter. Heather is an actress at the Quinte Playhouse. Lynn Braun hails from The County and executes all programming for DocFest while keeping her job as dental hygienist. Ruth Ingersoll (below) is the newest Member of the team, a true-blue charities executive.

Ruth Ingersoll (centre)

DocFest was apparently the brainchild of Susan Young, now in Toronto after other pursuits. The team started to form in Spring 2011; however, March 2012 was the first public launch of DocFest, Downtown Belleville.

Last weekend’s second public Docfest was a resounding success with near “sold-out” status.

Citizens from the area supported the vision financially alongside corporate donors to a level that surprised the committee. The Committee reiterates its deep-felt thanks to all.

Now, what is in store for 2014? We predict, it will be a grand affair, drawing from greater distances and in greater numbers.

NOTE: Anne McInnis from the original team is missing from these photos.

QuinteALIVE delivers Award

Today, we judges at QuinteALIVE slipped into The Old Firehouse with a hidden agenda. After keeping a poker face through a delightful lunch, we handed Leah Clancy QuinteALIVE’s award, engraved with “First Place” in the Downtown Belleville soup competition a few weeks ago. (This is not to be confused with the public’s vote–we were two sets of judges.)

For lunch, I had the Reuben Sandwich which I simply had to photograph. Chef Labelle turned a strawberry into a tulip and an mandarin slice into a butterfly; this is the artistry he brings to this little, new cafe.

Photos from the Red Carpet

Front: Sarah Toummon, Executive Director, DBIA Middle: Mayor Neil Ellis chats with MP Darryl Kramp

Dug Stevenson, Host, interviews, Jason Collett

Allison and Ryan Williams

L to R: MP Darryl Kramp, MPP Todd Smith and Mayor Neil Ellis

Gary Magwood, Co-Chair, DocFest

L to R: MP Todd Smith, Mayor Neil Ellis

It’s Red Carpet Night in Downtown Belleville

Moments from now, local celebrities and filmmakers begin the walk    on the red carpet at DocFest, Empire Theatre. Screening of Oscar winning documentary film, Searching for Sugarman, begins at 7:00pm.

Toronto singer-songwriter, Jason Collett, will perform live after the film. Collett is a Member of the Juno Award-winning indie rock  band, Broken Social Scene. Collett has recorded five albums; the last, Reckon, was recorded during the Occupy Wall Street movement.

Jason Collett

Among the Who’s Who at tonight’s gala event are: Darryl Kramp, MP, Todd Smith, MPP, Neil Ellis, Mayor, Jason Collett, Special Musical performance and Ryan Williams, President, Bay of Quinte Tourist Association, VP Williams Hotels.

Filmmakers screening at the DocFest include: Peter Lockyer, filmmaker, History Lives Here and Michael Brethour, filmmaker, Faces of Cancer. The event continues on through Sunday.

The Old Firehouse hoses the competition

Chef Josh, creator of Morrocan soup, The Firehouse

QuinteALIVE’s “Soup Nutzis” have chosen a winner, a runner up and a merit for presentation after tasting almost all soups in the “Savor the chill 2013″ contest. The public is yet to weigh in with the tally of its ballots.

The soup contest winner as Judged by QuinteALIVE is The Old Firehouse–hands down. Chef Josh’s, “Moroccan Soup”, exotic vegetables from the region simmering in a flavourful broth of spices and herbs endemic to this culture including cardamom, cumin and cinnamon, drew groans for everyone. The flavours remained on the palate long after degustation; sommeliers would dub this soup, “long”. The dollop of Buffalo Yogurt on top was made fresh this morning. This fledgling restaurant deserves an A+.

Chef Greg Sheridan with Mayor Ellis

The runner-up, Chef Greg Sheridan’s, Coq Au Vin at Sans Souci, a classic French soup with chicken, onions, mushrooms stewed in wine was rich in flavor and texture.

Richard with spouse, Shauna

A few merits are due. For presentation Richard Davis gets a blue ribbon. Everyone donned a chef’s hat. The presentation area was substantive with the whole family engaged.

The soup served with a little blue corn wedge was also very good and reminiscent of a chili.

This was the most fun venue on the street and it was not a restaurant! “Richard is so creative”, his wife Shauna exclaimed. No argument there.

Paul Dinkel serving at Paulo’s

Kudos are due to Paul Dinkel, Paulo’s Trattoria, who greeted and served the public himself and spoiled everyone with the addition of a hot bun.

Sadly, three venues where out of soup long before the deadline; so, this was a contest between thirteen rivals.

Downtown Belleville was the place to be today; it just seemed like Cheers, “where everybody knows your name”. Except it was all about soup.

“Soup Nutzis” to judge Soup-Off Downtown Belleville

Tomorrow the public and QuinteALIVE descend on Downtown Belleville between Noon and 3pm to partake and judge 16 soups in the perennial “Savour The Chill” contest. QuinteALIVE will taste all soups and choose the winner and runner up. Below are the 16 contestants and their respective soups–some are surprising.

Richard Davis is a fine fashion shop for both men and women; this is testament to its owner’s sense of humour. Richard Davis is the store that aired the hilarious “[Mayan End of World Sale]” TV campaign before Christmas.

I love Coq au vin; my mother made it often. I will be comparing Chef Greg’s to my mama’s.

PHOTO FROM DBIA

Some soups are simply hilarious; I am looking forward to judging this “soup-off” with my co-judge, Gina Fortis, Business Leader, Downtown (we may have a third mystery judge).

Richard Davis, Front St. – Hamburger Vegetable soup
Paulo’s, Bridge St. – Honey Glazed sausage and vegetable soup
Earl and Angelo’s, Front St. – Mac n Cheese Soufflé soup
Sans Souci, Front St. – Coq au vin soup
Café e, Front St. (beside Empire Theatre) -  Roasted Potato w/ double smoked bacon soup
Jim’s pizza, Front St.- Italian wedding soup
L’Auberge de France, Front St. – Smoked potato leek soup
La Favorita Trattoria, Front St. – Hearty Vegetable soup
Debbie’s Restaurant, Campbell St. – Tomato beef macaroni soup
Cheech’s cozy grill, Front St. – Loaded Potato
Y’wanna hav’a café, Bridge St. – Pear & Parsnip with curry
Sweet Escape, Front St. – Butternut Squash w/ caramelized apple and bacon
Modern Café, Front St. – Wonton Soup
China Gate, Front St. – Eight Treasure soup
Capers, Front St. – Potato popcorn w/ truffle crème fresh
The Old Firehouse, Front St. – Moroccan Soup

Each bowl is only $1.00; so everyone can afford to cast ballots. QuinteALIVE are the Soup Nuzti Judges; but, the public palate matters most! So come down and “cast your palate”!

Watch for the many local famous faces that will be wandering in. The weather folks are predicting a little rain and a little snow; perfect day for hot soup indoors. See ya’ll tomorrow!

The many iterations of Gary : DocFest Leader

Gary Magwood, Co-Chair, Downtown DocFest

“I don’t have a plan”, Gary answered to my typical interview question about the next five years with DocFest, “I have a historic [limited] attention span”. There is no denying the man’s sense of humour; hence, the will to frame his portrait with an issue of “King of the Nerds”.

Gary is no nerd. He is a passionate sailor working on making his next vessel seaworthy. This passion is matched in his daily commitment to making the Belleville DocFest an international festival of Hotdocs Toronto stature along with a team of seven committee Members sharing the same dedication.

Gary’s mind is always engaged on community and global scale politics and dilemmas. He spoke of injustice reaching as far as Africa and as close as Louisiana and Detroit. He waxed longingly about a little coffee shop he frequented five years ago in downtown Belleville, The Organic Underground, where “street people” gathered with creatives alike, sharing stories, music and films; for myriad reasons, it is no longer.

Previous iterations of Gary include Campaign Manager for the Green Party under Elizabeth May, a racing car enthusiast, an antique dealer and chartering boats. This is what some dub a “renaissance man”; but, variety is evidently the spice of life in Gary’s countenance.

Stay-Tuned for an edgy, funfest interview on UpClose at QuinteALIVE of this DocFest diva next week.

In the meantime grab a pass for $35, or Gala Night for $25 before they are sold out. See story below for details. Or visit their site at DowntownDocFest.ca