30+ Years of Rosy Rhubarb Festival by Peri Hayes Rosy Rhubarb Festival returns for another community cele- bration this June 7th from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, as well as on the 8th from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm. Committee Founder, Keith Orchard, highlights, “This event is followed one week later by the Tractor Pull.” In 1992, a group of enthusiastic residents united with a shared passion for promoting the village of Shedden and surrounding area. Titled the Rhubarb Capital of Ontario in 1990, this Shedden event is held in honour of the local community and their memorable rhubarb. The Committee held their official meeting in 1993. The present Committee of roughly 12 to 14 members prepares nearly year-round for this event, gathering for two-hour meetings on the third Tuesday of each month – with exception to August, September and December. The Committee has fundraised for an updated multi-purpose building, being the Southwold Keystone Complex. Over the years, Keith has worked alongside dedicated volunteers to prepare 160 picnic tables for Fingal, Shedden and Talbotville locations, having sold a number to raise funds while building the present Shedden Library. Moreover, Keith shares that 28 benches have been constructed -- enough to comfortably seat 1,000 individuals. As Keith remarks with a smile, “We make lots of money, we spend lots of money. We keep improving the grounds, and are currently trying to get the old ball diamond refurbished so that children can use the space. This is our biggest goal this year.” The Optimist Club’s 1k Fun Run for Youth, 5k Run and Walk and 10k Marathon are returning this year, which are open to
the public. The Baked Rhubarb Competition and alternative contests will uphold tradition, while their renowned rhubarb sauce, specialty ice cream, pie and salsa will be available. With his personal involvement since the festival’s debut, Keith reveals the insightful recognition that three, five-gallon pails of their rhubarb sauce were consumed during their first year and this number has excitingly increased to 30. Furthermore, their vendor area has been extended for the 2025 festivities. Their array of enjoyable entertainment throughout the weekend entails bouncy castles, live music featuring Austin Gagnier, John Milles, Chris Eveland and more, a Classic Car Show on the Sunday and their whimsical petting zoo. Keith also details, “This year, we have a great banner that says ‘Kids’ Zone’. While we used to mix, we have ultimately decided to separate the petting zoo from the rest of the event for safety purposes.” As another development and through partnership with Natterjack Brewing Company LTD, the newly-licensed adult area will serve a variety of mature beverage With volunteer interest and general inquiries, email Committee Chair, Sandy, at sandy.rosyrhubarb@gmail.com. Further in- formation about Rosy Rhubarb Festival is available on their evolved rosyrhubarbfestival.com/home website. www.psft.ca (519) 782-4353
NEW SEASON. NEW STORIES. Your Guide to Summer Theatre!
DUMP GUYS MAY 21 - MAY 31 BY SIMON JOYNES LIARS AT A FUNERAL JULY 16 - AUGUST 2 BY SOPHIA FABIILLI
Hits of the Grand Ole Opry OPRY GOLD JUNE 3 - JUNE 14 LEISA WAY'S featuring The Wayward Wind Band THE KITCHEN WITCHES AUGUST 6 - AUGUST 23 BY CAROLINE SMITH
DORIS AND IVY IN THE HOME JUNE 18 - JULY 12 BY NORM FOSTER goldfish AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 13
PortStanley FestivalTheatre 2025 Summer Season
BY STEVE ROSS WORLD PREMIERE
“The Kitchen Witches” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com Season Subscriptions Available
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Real Living • Spring 2025 • Page 3
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