cktimes.ca Archives for Things To Do



Things To Do


Things to do in and around Chatham-Kent!

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

This column will list happenings within and around Chatham-Kent. If you or your group would like to have your event listed e-mail us at editor@cktimes.ca or phone 519-627-5978.

Daily March 21 to September 20: The Ridge House Museum is open daily from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Appease your senses with a personally guided tour of this beautifully restored 1875 home. Large groups are welcome with advanced booking. General admission is by donation. For more information or to book a tour please contact the Ridge House Museum curator @ 519 674 2223 or email ckridgehouse@chatham-kent.ca

First Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m., October thru March
Sydenham Field Naturalists meetings and Indoor Programs are held on the 2nd floor of the Wallaceburg Municipal Service Centre, Dufferin Ave., Wallaceburg. See individual dates for Program details.

2nd Wednesday of every month
The CK Dramatists Society will meet at the Chatham Cultural Centre beginning on February 10th and will be modified by musical theatre writer Jenne Watson Pickard. The CK Dramatists Society is a forum for dramatic writers to come together, share their work, and receive feedback from their peers. Anyone who writes plays, screenplays, television shows, or musicals is encouraged to participate.  Anyone who wishes to join should contact Mark Reinhart at 519 350 7477 or tredmark@hotmail.com

4th Wednesday of every month, 8:00 p.m.
The KENT COUNTY STAMP CLUB meets in the library at John McGregor Secondary School, 300 Cecile Ave., Chatham every month except July, August and December.

Third Wednesday of the month, 7:00 p.m.
The CHATHAM KENT QUILTERS' GUILD meets at St. Paul's Congregational Church Hall, 450 Park Ave., W., Chatham. New members and guests welcome. Contact ltrinacty@hotmail.com for more information.

Wednesday afternoons or Friday mornings
Join the Wii Bowling League at the Wallaceburg Seniors’ Community Centre. No stairs to climb. This can be done sitting in a chair if you are unable to stand. A FUN SOCIAL 2 HOURS. All gaming equipment will be provided. No prior experience with the Wii console is necessary. The league ­ using the Wii electronic game console ­will be composed of two-person teams. Teams do not have to attend every week, but will need to attend enough days to complete the league schedule. Teams will vie for the “Golden Shoes” Trophy . Less impressive prizes will be handed out to the teams managing the best average score, the best single game score and whatever other milestones or achievements we deem worthy, Sign up dead line by: Oct. 2nd. Fall league 10 weeks ( Oct. 8 ­Dec. 10th) Wed. 1 ­ 3pm or Fridays 9:30 -11:30am. Everyone welcome. Call the Centr at 519-627-6224 for more information.

Every Thursday, Sept. 1 to June 30, 6:30 p.m.
The Kiwanis Club of Ridgetown meets weekly in the basement of the Mount Zion Presbyterian Church, 59 Main St. E., Ridgetown. Summer meetings are hosted by members at various local addresses.

Every Second and Fourth Friday of each month, 7:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
TEENS ROCK for teenagers in grades 7 - 10 meets at the Gym at Charlemont Free Methodist Church, 30127 Brigden Road, R.R.#5, Wallaceburg for basketball, volleyball, soccer, table games, outdoor games, campfires, cookouts, camping trips, community service projects and more. Call 627-8170 or 627-4965 for more details or e-mail janice_smith@cogeco.ca.

Fourth Wednesday of every Month
Located in the Region of Chatham-Kent, Tulip Tree Needlearts is a chapter of the
Embroiderersí Association of Canada www.eac.ca. The aim of the organization is to preserve traditional techniques and promote new challenges in the Art of Embroidery through education and networking. Meetings are the 4th Tuesday of every month. For information on meetings or classes please phone 519 674-5538 or 519 354-8590. Workshops are designed to offer members an opportunity to learn both new and advanced methods of needlework. Projects and Classes are ongoing throughout the year. Stitch-ins are held regularly in members homes throughout the region of Chatham-Kent. These offer an opportunity for members to share expertise and ideas. Tulip Tree Needlearts offers group and individual courses through the Embroiderersí Association of Canada. Membership is $50.00 and includes a subscription to the quarterly national magazine Embroidery Canada.

February 26 to April 4
Sequential Desire is a thematic group exhibition, curated by Dermot Wilson and Mark Laliberte, incorporating many new visual arts media and expanding our notions of cartooning, how popular culture affects visual art production, and where these practices refined from sequential art appear in contemporary art. Through the art forms of the comic strip, painting, video installation, web animation, and digital media, participants reflect a diversity of artistic and cultural practices, including fictional, autobiographical, observational, politically/socially engaged, and poetic, responses to lived experiences. Sequential Desire will also include a selection of historical cartoon cels from the collection of the Art Gallery of Algoma. These components will graphically display the history of the medium, the early influences of popular culture on this art form and a historic reflection on out theme of sequential desire.  The artists involved are: Robbie Adamson (Sault Ste. Marie), Dan Kennedy (Toronto), Mark Laliberte (Toronto), Ian Patrick McAllister (North Bay), Sarah Moore (North Bay), gustave morin (Windsor), Marc Ngui (Toronto / France), Tanya Read (Toronto), Chantal Rousseau (Kingston). An opening reception will be held on March 11, 2010 at 7 pm at the Thames Art Gallery. This exhibition was created and distributed by the WKP Kennedy Gallery in partnership with the Thames Art Gallery. For more information, contact: Mindy Bowls, Assistant Curator, Thames Art Gallery,
519.354.8346 ext 41 

March 15 to April 16, Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m to 4 p.m.
This special Wallaceburg art exhibition is an outreach project by ARTspace and is funded by the Community Futures Development Corporation. It will feature a wide range of media, including fiber pieces, sculpture, photography, and both abstract and representational painting.  This installation has been created to meet the need for opportunities to promote community artists, for cross cultural exchange, and education about contemporary art and culture. This ARTspace Satellite installation features a number of Wallaceburg artists: Beverly Fish, Mike Blazek, Hank Bos, Jon-Eric Kroon, Irene MacCreadie, and Hugo Ramos, as well as other ARTspace Exhibiting Members: Lindsay Beaubien, Karen Bourassa, Becky Fixter Vagners, Clare Kilpatrick, and Peter Moffat. The exhibition will be on display at the Wallaceburg and District Museum, free of charge. The opening reception for this exhibition will take place March 19, 2010 at 7:00pm. Snacks and refreshments will be served free of charge.

March 20 to September 19, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
Visit the Ridge House Museum's fascinating new exhibit entitled "Home on the Ridge: Ridgetown 1820-1900" to find out about the trials and tribulations of Ridgetown's earliest settlers. Admission charge by donation. For more information or to book a tour please contact the Museum curator at 519-674-2223 or by email at ckridgehouse@chatham-kent.ca.

March 22-27
Now based in New York, Jordan Broadworth will be the first artist involved in launching a pilot project that will bring national and international artists to visit Chatham-Kent in a residency program. Housed in a store front studio located at 30 ½ Jahnke Street (in behind the William Street Café) Broadworth will be engaged in a week long stay creating new artwork. He will also be available during “office hours” to accommodate visits from artists and other interested community members. The hours that are being set aside are 12 – 1:30 pm and 6:30 – 8 pm, appointments are strongly recommended so please contact Sonya at ARTspace (519 352 1064) to reserve your time.  There will be an artist talk at the William Street Café on Thursday March 25 @ 7 pm and an observation of Earth Hour Saturday evening at the studio. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free. Studio space and ‘Artist In Residence’ program generously sponsored by Retro Suites. For more information on Jordan Broadworth please visit his web site www.jordanbroadworth.com

Wednesday, March 24, 6:30 p.m.
Dresden Horticultural Society hosts their monthly meeting with Sandra Maltby Mills presenting "Let's Get Fit for Gardening" at the Trinity Christian Centre in Dresden. Bring a mat and a towel. More details on this event may be found on the Facebook group page or call Lynda Weese at 519-683-4172.

Thursday, March 25, 7-9 p.m.
Dresden Horticultural Society is hosting "The Urban Farmer", Ron Berezan, presenting "Transform Your Yard: Creating a Natural, Sustainable and Edible Landscape" at the Trinity Christian Centre in Dresden. More details on this event may be found on the Facebook group page or call Lynda Weese at 519-683-4172.

Thursday, March 25, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce is hosting their 122nd Business Excellence Awards Banquet at Club Lentina, 250 National Rd, Chatham.
Reception: 6:00 p.m.
Program & Dinner: 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $70.00 each, $535.00 table of 8 (all tickets are gst applicable). Tickets are available by contacting the Chamber Office at 519.352.7540, Ext 21
or email to TUinfo@chatham-kentchamber.caUT

Thursday, March 25 to Saturday March 27
Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Days sale.

Friday, March 26, 6:30 p.m.
The Sydenham Cultural Action a Team and the new CKXS 99.1 FM are hosting a Battle of the Bands March 26th (4th Friday). This event will take place at the Oaks Inn in Wallaceburg. Eight local bands will vie for first place. Admission is $5. This is an all-ages licensed event. If there are any questions contact Tammy Howlett, Chamber of Commerce Youth Intern, (519) 627-8570 or (519) 365-0562.

Friday, March 26, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Local author and Wallaceburg native, Jane Anne Deighton, will be at the Wallaceburg Library to launch her new book "The Last Chapter(s): Grieving before a death...Surviving After". Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Saturday, March 27, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Wallaceburg & District Museum Giant Indoor Garage Sale.  Numerous vendors, raffles, bake sale, collectibles and antiques, baby items, woodcrafts, household items, jewellery, etc. in Jeanne Gordon Theatre (above the museum) 505 King Street, Wallaceburg.  Elevator accessible.  Free Admission.  Donate your good used items or rent a table to sell your treasures, $10.00 per table.   Phone 519 627-8962 for more information.

Saturday, March 27
Landscape Ontario Windsor Chapter and St. Clair College presents Winter Blooms, the 5th Annual Landscape and Garden Expo. Information, demonstrations and more. Featuring Denis Flanagan, Martin Quinn and St. Clair's own Don Tellier and Jay Terryberry. Specialty Garden Displays, New plant introductions, Hardscaping, Hands-on demonstration on pruning, Culinary delights and wine tasting, Children's activities, games , Clairol the Clown, Orchid displays, Retail area, Water havesting/gardening, Environmental displays, Silent auction and raffles. Tickets are $12 advance, $15 at the door or $5 for Trade show only. 8:00 a.m. Early Bird Registration, 10:00 a.m. Speaker Series. Tickets are available in Chatham at The Glasshouse at 519-352-1127 or check out the website at www.stclaircollege.ca/winterblooms for more outlets.

Sunday, March 28, 1:00 p.m.
The South Kent Trail Volunteers invite you to the dedication of the Erieau Marsh Trail Viewing Stand on Sunday, March 28, at 1 pm. The ribbon cutting ceremony begins at 1:30. Please dress appropriately for inclement weather. The Trail Head is at the entrance to Erieau on the Erieau Road. For additional information contact Dianne Flook at 519-436-0818 or John TeSlighte at 519-676-8211.

Sunday, March 28, 2:00 p.m.
Talbot Street United Church presents "Jubal's Daughters", a harp/flute duo, with Anita Leschied and Averil Spence-Clarke on Sunday March 28, 2010 at 2 p.m. Free-will donations accepted with desserts to follow. For more information, please call at 519-352-8260.

Thursday, April 1, 7:00 p.m.
The third instalment of the Chatham-Kent Museum's Winter Lecture Series: Winter Tales and Words of Wisdom will be an enthusuast's guide to finding, growing and landscaping with Carolinian trees. All lectures include refreshments, and will take place in Studio One of the Cultural Centre. Tickets may be purchased by calling 519.354.8338, visiting the Cultural Centre box office at 75 William Street North Chatham, or visiting www.cktickets.com   Limited tickets will also be available at the door. 

Monday, April 5, 6:45 p.m.
The Chatham-Kent Film Group presents "Cooking with Stella", written by deepa and Dilip Mehta. Movie is at Chatham Cinema 6, King St., E., Chatham. Tickets are $8 members, $9 non-members. Advance tickets available at William St. Cafe. "Cooking with Stella is great fun to watch as it offers a glimpse of how Canadians live in India's capital." - Rotten tomatoes movie critics.

April 6 to 16 and April 27
The Chatham Kiwanis Music Festival Committee has recently announced the dates for the 65th Annual Chatham Kiwanis Music Festival. The Festival will be held from April 6 to April 16, 2010. The Grand Concert is scheduled for Tuesday, April 27.  Free copies of the Festival syllabus are available at Tony’s One Stop Music Shoppe, Frank’s Music Centre, Strings ‘N’ Things and Gospel Text Book Store in Chatham.  Entries must be postmarked no later than November 16, 2009. Band and Choirs entries must be postmarked no later than Dec. 1, 2009.  Registrations can be submitted online, for a reduced entry fee, to www.chathamkiwanis.com/musicfestival, beginning November 1. Registrants are encouraged to use online registration but entries can still be submitted by mail.   For further information, contact Lois Pepper at 519-354-8644 or Mary Alice Marchand at 519-354-0962 or mamrelxd@mnsi.net.

Tuesday, April 6, 5:30 p.m.
2010 Dresden Rotary Banquet takes place at the Dresden Arena.

Wednesday, April 7
Patricia M's Luncheon Fashion Show takes place at Rossini's Restaurant, 634 Grand Ave.E., Chatham. Call 519-352-2920. Proceeds to Outreach for Hunger.

Wednesday, April 7, 7:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Thames St. Clair Culture Action Team (C.A.T.) presents "Business meets Arts and Culture: A Night of Networking" at the Chatham Armoury, Tecumseh Park, William Street, Chatham. Open to all --- curious public, business people and artisans. Admission is $5 at the door. Guest speakers, appetizers, cash bar.

Wednesday, April 7, 7:00 p.m.
From Head to Toe: What You Need to Know about Cirvical Cancer Screening and HPV. Eighth in a series of FREE Public Education events. Special guest speaker will be Dr. Baljit Singh, MD FRCS(c), Medical Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. The program takes place at the Salvation Army Citadel Church, 46 Orangewood Boulevard, Chatham. Please bring an item for the food bank. For further information call the Canadian Cancer Society at 519-352-3960.

Thursday, April 8, 7:00 p.m
The Kiwanis Theatre is thrilled to welcome back the contemporary dance company, Dancemakers.  Join Dancemakers’ Artistic Director Michael Trent for a 60 minute talking/dancing Q&A conversation about contemporary dance.  Through lecture and dance demonstrations, Trent and company attempt to dispel some of the mystery surrounding contemporary dance.  Tackling topics such as the relationship between music and dance, this session is a must for anyone wishing to develop a greater understanding and appreciation for contemporary dance.  Performances by Dancemakers. Tickets for this event are pay-what-you-can. An RSVP is required to kiwanistheatre@chatham-kent.ca or 519-354-8338. 

Thursday, April 8
Community Living Chatham-Kent hosts their Annual Fundraiser Gala featuring motivational speaker Rob Pio Hajaar, Guitar virtuoso Tom Lockwood, as well as the Community Living Chatham-Kent "RESPECT Tour" 2010. Win a Caribbean Cruise (tickets $5). Cocktails at 5:30 p.m., Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $40 each($20 tax receipt available); table of 8 reservations $300. To be held at St. Joseph's Parish Hall. Contact 519-352-1174, ext. 232 for further information.

Thursday, April 8,
The Foundation of Chatham-Kent Alliance will host its 8th Annual Parade of Chefs at Club Lentinas in Chatham, in support of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s Highest Priority Needs.  This year’s special guest and emcee will be Kevin Brauch from the Thirsty Traveler, Iron Chef America and Chef Network Inc. An evening of fine dining, Parade of Chefs will feature a six-course meal prepared by Chefs from Brownie’s Catering, Chilled Cork Food Emporium and Wine Bar, Harvest Moon Catering, Mamma Maria’s Ristorante, Rossini’s Restaurant, The Black Sheep Pub & Bistro Restaurant and Tru’s Grillhouse Restaurant.  Each course will be accompanied by local wines from Aleksander Estate Winery, Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc. and Smith & Wilson Estate Wines. As well, back by popular demand are the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Physician ‘Wine Servers’, twelve local doctors. Throughout the evening, Kevin Brauch will serve as emcee. As the host of the Thirsty Traveler on the Food Network, Kevin has visited all corners of the globe and is a wealth of information. At Parade of Chefs, in addition to his emcee duties, Kevin will ‘tell a story’ about each of the courses prepared and the accompanying wines and will conduct short interviews with the Chefs.  Tickets to Parade of Chefs are available for $100 each and can be purchased at the Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance at 9 Ursuline Avenue in Chatham or by calling 519-436-2538.

Saturday, April 10, 8:00 p.m.
Chatham-Kent singer and recording artist Jade Lester will be launching her new CD, "Love's Funny That Way" at the Kiwanis Theatre in Chatham. This compilation of country/pop songs contains material written by top songwriters from Ontario to Nashville to L.A. CD's will be available this night only for $10. Tickets for this special evening are $20. Call the Cultural Centre at 75 William St. N., Chatham at 519-354-8338, or visit www.cktickets.com.

Saturday, April 10, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Come to the Thames Art Gallery and learn how to remove your creative blocks through a unique visual journaling workshop Work with creative spirit Phyllis Chapman who will help you pin down your thoughts and emotions to the page. Journals and other art making materials are provided. Participants are encouraged to bring memorabilia or photographs they may want to incorporate into their journals. Participants should also bring their lunch (fridge and microwave available). Workshop takes place in Studio One at the Cultural Centre. Cost is $35 plus GST with member discounts available. To reserve a spot, call the box office at 519-354-8338 or go to www.cktickets.com.

Sunday, April 11, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Total Woman Expo takes place at the Portuguese Club in Chatham with demonstrations and three Fashion Shows --- a Girls' Fashion Show at 11:10 a.m. , a Women's Fashion Show at 2:30 p.m. and an All Male Fashion Show at 3:30 p.m.. There will also be a Little Girls' Pageant at 1:00 p.m., Little Girls' Tea Parties, lots of door prizes and more. For more information check the website twexpo.webs.com. This event is in support of the Chatham Kent Women's Centre.

Monday evenings, April 12, 19 and 26
Chatham-Kent author and historian John Gardiner will lead a workshop- style creative writing course focusing on the construction of a personal memoir. Using old photographs and tools like Memory Maps, participants will learn how to put structure to those wonderful memories of years gone by so they can be shared with children, grandchildren and future generations. Participants should have a basic understanding and knowledge of grammar and spelling. Participants are asked to bring writing materials the first week. Some homework will be required. There is a story in each of us – get your creative side working and tell yours.  This workshop runs in Studio One of the Cultural Centre.  The cost is $47.25 and includes gst.  Member discounts are available.  To reserve your spot, please call 519-354-8338, come in to 75 William Street North, or log on to www.cktickets.com

Monday, April 12, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m
The Canadian Cancer Society is hosting a support group for individuals living with breast cancer. The meeting will be held at the Chatham-Kent Unit office, 746 Richmond St., Units A & B, Chatham.  There is no fee, but registration for new participants is appreciated.  Please call 352-3960 for more information. 

Thursday, April 15, 7:00 p.m.
Quiz Night at the CCC!  Love trivia?  Looking for something fun to do with friends?  Would you like to win some cold hard cash?  If you’ve answered yes to any one of the above questions, then Quiz Night at the Chatham Cultural Centre is just the event for you!  The Chatham-Kent Museum and the Thames Art Gallery are happy to present Arts and Heritage Quiz Night in Studio 1 of the Chatham Cultural Centre.  Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with the first round of trivia questions starting promptly at 7 p.m.  Participants can expect 10 rounds of 10 trivia questions, with topics ranging from science, pop culture, music, art, history, and drama – and keep your eyes peeled for questions with local cultural significance!  This is a non-profit event designed to bring the community together for a fun evening of laughs, brain teasers, food, and great company.  Participants will enjoy tasty snacks, and a cash bar will be available for refreshments.  Cash prizes will be awarded to 5 teams; 1st prize of up to $200 to the team who answers the greatest number of questions correctly, 2nd prize up to $100, and 3rd prize up to $50. Participants must register in teams of 4 for a total of $40.  Team registration will be made available at the CCC Box Office in advance, or online through www.cktickets.com.  Registration will only be available at the door if there are enough spots available – so register your team today!  Don’t miss out on this fun and exciting event!  To register your team, please visit the Box Office, or book online at www.cktickets.com 

Thursday, April 15
Today is the deadline for Kent Bridge Ball Registration. Forms for ages 3 – adult, are available at “Your Village Pantry”, Kent Bridge, and “Miller Home Hardware”, Thamesville.  For further information, call 519-676-4720 or 519-683-2929.

Saturday, April 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dresden Cancer Fun Auction at the Dresden Arena.

Saturday, April 17, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
The Shetland United Church Stewards will be holding their third annual Bake Sle at the Florence Community Centre. It will be held in conjunction with the events commemorating the closing of the old Community centre, organized by the Florence Oddfellows. Several tables of homemade pies, decorated cakes, tarts, muffins, bread, cookies, treats, and more will be available.  Come early for the best selection.  In past years, the most popular selections in homemade pies and cakes were sold almost before they hit the table!  If you don’t have time for breakfast, not to worry.  The Oddfellows will be serving breakfast at the event. For more information, contact Joyce Wright at (519) 692-5106.

April 17-23, Chatham-Kent "Earth Day/Week"
Chatham – Kent Residents, Retailers, Schools, Churches, and Community organizations are encouraged to sign up in your community to promote responsibility, clean up, and conservation of our environment. By joining our neighbours we can clean-up and beautify our neighbourhoods.  “Green It” Day, Pitch in, Earth Day, or 20 minute clean up! Some where in your community one or more of these event will be taking place. For more information in your community call :  Chatham Downtown   -  Janice Wieringa – Executive Director Downtown Chatham BIA, Phone 519-352-8387 or E-mail bia@bellnet.ca - Lynn O’Brien – General Manager Downtown Chatham Centre, Phone 519-351-1271 Ext 227 or E-mail  lo'brien@ivanhoecambridge.com  
Tilbury  - Linda Henderson – Tilbury Community in Bloom, Phone 519-682-0291  
Wallaceburg  -  Tammy Howlett - Wallaceburg & District Chamber of Commerce
Phone 519-627-1443  Cell 519-365-0562 or E-mail tammyhowlett@hotmail.com  
Dresden  - Lynda Weese - Dresden Community in Bloom, Phone 519 - 683-4172 or E-mail lyndaweese@kent.net  

Sunday, April 18, 7:30 p.m.
Mount Zion Presbyterian Church, 59 Main St. E., Ridgetown presents RIDGE PLAYERS performing selections from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat plus THE SARKANY CELLO/PIANO DUO, London, on Sunday, Apr 18th at 7:30 pm.  Proceeds from the freewill offering to Robarts Research Institute in memory of Eberle Goldhawk.  Tax receipts available.  Refreshments and fellowship to follow the program.    

Tuesday, April 20, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
The Canadian Cancer Society is hosting a support group for individuals living with all types of cancer. The meeting will be held at the Chatham-Kent Unit office, 746 Richmond St., Units A & B, Chatham.  There is no fee, but registration for new participants is appreciated.  Please call 352-3960 for more information. 

Wednesday, April 21, 7:00 p.m.
Cancer survivors are models of hope in the 14th annual Celebrate Life Fashion Show at Club Lentinas in Chatham. Tickets are $35 and include door prizes, coffe/tea, refreshments and dessert. There will also be a live auction for a fabulous Vacation Package. Tables can be reserved with the purchase of 10 tickets. Tickets are available from the Canadian Cancer Society office at 746 Richmond Street, Chatham.

Wednesday, April 21, 2:00 p.m.
The Fabulous Crooners is a dynamic stage show celebrating the super-star male vocalists of the past century. The '50s marked the rise to fame of the 'boy' band singer to 'headliner' status and these entertainers dominated the hit parade charts and the international music scene for the next two decades. Singers who had an easy listening, romantic style of delivery were called "crooners" and are typified by such stars as Bing Crosby, Perry Como, Eddie Fisher, Nat ‘King’ Cole, Frankie Laine and Dean Martin. The later 50s produced more passion, beat and tempo and recording artists such as Pat Boone, Bobby Darin, Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, Engelbert Humperdinck, Neil Diamond, Paul Anka and Frank Sinatra churned out million-selling gold records that made them teen idols, sex symbols and superstar status. The Fabulous Crooners features the unforgettable hits of the above artists. Fabulous Crooners is headlined by the highly-acclaimed 14-member Galaxy All-Star Orchestra directed by Ross Wooldridge and features sensational male vocalists.IAN JUTSUN...and VILLI V  both awesome singer-entertainers-recording artists destined for stardom. The show also features solo and background vocals performed by the four-member Stardust Serenaders in an memorable hit show guaranteed to get standing ovations.  See more about the Fabulous Crooners at http://www.diamondentertainment.ca/fabulous-c...rooners.php The Fabulous Crooners will perform at the Kiwanis Theatre.  Tickets for this performance are $29, and member discounts are available.  To purchase, please call 519-354-8338, come in to 75 William Street North, or log on to www.cktickets.com

April 21-24, 7:00 p.m. nightly
Ursuline College Chatham presents Elton John and Tim Rice's AIDA. Tickets are $16 - On sale NOW at www.cktickets.com. Doors open at 6:30pm. UCC’s production of Aida by Elton John and Tim Rice is a contemporary version of a classic musical tale. Set in ancient Egypt, Aida is the tale of a Nubian princess, whose forbidden love for an Egyptian soldier forces them to face death or be apart forever. Their devotion to each other surpasses the cultural differences, the warring nations that threaten to destroy them.  From this tale comes the universal realization that with true devotion come peace and prosperity.

Saturday, April 24, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Victoria Avenue United Church presents Malt Shoppe Memories featuring the Satiniques. A Las Vegas style Musical Revue with favourite hits from the 50's and 60's Tickets are $18 or 2 for $35. Proceeds to the "Building our Future" Fund. Performance takes place at St. Andrew's United Church, 85 William St. S., Chatham. For tickets call the church office at 519-354-7540 or 591-352-3750.

Wednesday, April 28, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Canadian Cancer Society Grand Dessert Night at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. For tickets or information call Rachel MacLeod, Fundraising Coordinator, at 519-352-3960 ext. 3933.

Saturday, May 1, 7:00 p.m.
The Florence House Concert Series presents "Guys and Dolls", an a capella evening of Doo-wap, Gospel and Pop, featuring The Five Guys and Dulce Jubilo. Delicious desserts and fair-trade coffee served at intermission. Tickets are $20 each. Write dulce.jubilo@sympatico.ca or phone 519-692-5260.

Wednesday, May 5
Patricia M's Luncheon Fashion Show takes place at the Satellite Restaurant, 145 King St.E., Chatham. Call 519-352-5281 for reservations. Proceeds to Chatham Kent Big Sisters.

Wednesday, May 5, 7:00 p.m.
Join the members of the Dresden Horticultural Society for a "Container Gardening Workshop" at Kentwood Gardens in Dresden.

May 6, 7, 8, 2010
Theatre Kent’s subscription season wraps up with Opening Night. This hilarious comedy written by Canadian favourite Norm Foster and directed by Jan Holt tells the story of an unusual evening out at the theatre. For tickets call the Chatham Cultural Centre Box Office, 75 William Street North in Chatham, or by calling 519-354-8338, or on cktickets.com. For more information on Theatre Kent or to get involved either on stage or backstage, visit www.theatrekent.org <http://www.theatrekent.org/> or call 519-436-0043.

Saturday, May 8
Doors Open Chatham-Kent will have Heritage Buildings in the west side of Chatham-Kent open for viewing. For further information contact Sheila Gibbs at 519-351-2958, Sgibbs@doorsopenchatham-kent.com http://www.doorsopenchatham-kent.com .

Saturday, May 15, 8:00 p.m.
Susu Abdo, Megan Robbins, and The Kiwanis Theatre  present a night of Egyptian dance. In partnership with local dancers, Sahara: An Evening of Middle Eastern Belly Dance will take you on a journey back in time along the banks of the Nile River to ancient Egypt where Pharaohs ruled the land.  Professional belly dance artists Abdo and Robbins, along with their respective dance troupes Troupe Abdo and Ala Naar and The Sultanas  will entertain you with a professional action packed evening representing all forms of Middle Eastern Dance. Tickets are $17/adults, $12 for seniors and students. Call the box office at 519.354.8338, come in to 75 William Street North, or log on to www.cktickets.com.

Saturday, May 15, 6:00 p.m.
CK On the Edge, Chatham’s newest summer arts festival, announces a fundraising event called “The Art of Politics” to take place at The Old Warehouse at Smith & Wilson Winery. “The Art of Politics” is best described as a celebration of art, with a live auction of original art created by members of Municipal Council and many of our community leaders, including Mayor Randy Hope.  The evening will begin with cocktails featuring music by Sarah Hiltz.  Dinner, catered by William Street Café, will offer a fun menu starting with Crunchy Nuts and Bolts with a Dash of Bourbon followed by Gourmet Beef mini Burgers in Buttermilk Biscuits topped with Cherry Tomato Chutney, Creamy Four Cheese Pasta with Fresh Basil, and Crispy Apple, Cabbage Slaw in Homemade Garlic Mayonnaise and Home Baked Beans in Ontario Maple Syrup.  This CK On the Edge original meal will finish up with Ooey Gooey Brownies Topped with Delhaven Sour Cherries. Chatham guitarist Tom Lockwood will provide dinner music.  A live auction of original art will be conducted by auctioneer Greg Hetherington.  Results of a silent auction of items donated from the community will follow.  The evening will round out with dancing to a live band - Chatham’s own “Superfly”.  CK On the Edge is a new multi-disciplinary arts festival featuring traditional and contemporary art of all types – theatre, music, dance, visual arts, literary arts, film and more.   30 performances will be presented over 11 days during the summer – July 8 – 18, 2010 in downtown Chatham. Funds raised from The Art of Politics will be directed towards marketing efforts outside of our community. Tickets for this event are only $40 per person.  They can be purchased at William Street Café, Smith & Wilson Winery, or through CKtickets by calling 519-354-8338 or online at www.cktickets.com
For more information, contact:  Lesley Grand, President CK On the Edge, Daytime: 519-354-8346 ext. 31, Evening: 519-352-6937 ßor info@ckontheedge.com 

Wednesday, June 2
Patricia M's Luncheon Fashion Show takes place at Glitters Fun Eatery, 162 King St., Chatham. Cal 519-352-0820 for reservations. Proceeds to the Kidney Foundation.

June 11, 12, 13
Annual conference under the auspices of the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario and Community Heritage Ontario. The three main areas of exploration will be Places of Worship, Barns and other rural architecture, Kent County Architecture. Main venue will be University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus with numerous excursion lectures around much of Chatham-Kent. For further information contact President/Chair John Taylor on 519 674 3022 or rondeau1@xplornet.com 

June 12-24
Desmond Juried Art Exhibition & Sale at the Alumni Lounge, University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus. “Celebrating Canadian Rural Living” is the theme of this sale show of art in any medium. For further information contact Douglas Desmond on 519 674 1955 or douglasdesmond@desmondlawoffice.ca 

July 8 to July 18
CK on the Edge, a new Chatham-based edgy arts festival featuring 30 performances – 15 venues. Multidisciplinary – literary, dance, music, visual art by local, provincial and other Canadian artists. Web site being launched on 28th January - www.ckontheedge.com 

July 15-17
Following the success of last year’s premier event, CKdances will be presenting Dances in the Park again this summer.  This event is an outdoor dance festival held in Tecumseh Park featuring local choreographers and performers.  Dances in the Park is the Chatham-Kent version of Dusk Dances, a hugely popular summer event that has brought contemporary and traditional dance to public parks across Canada since 1993.

Wednesday, July 21
The Chatham-Kent Farm Safety Association is making the final arrangements for
this years “Progressive Agriculture / Chatham-Kent Farm Safety Day at Ridgetown Campus, UoG. This year’s safety lessons will include electrical safety, grain bin safety,
sun safety, lawn mower safety, fire safety, just to name a few.  The committee
is always welcome to new ideas, suggestions, donations and volunteers.  Each
year approximately 120 children attend this educational, fun event and are able
to take home a free tee shirt and hat.  For more information contact:  Sue Kelner 519-674-1584 or skelner@ridgetwonc.uoguelph.ca          

July 24, 25
Festival of Porches and Verandahs, Ridgetown. The second year of this successful event offering Victorian fare and festivities in a Victorian town. Added to elegant luncheons on private porches and verandahs will be a chalk art event, Faire Tyme Toys display, Art in the Park, period church service in Watson Grove, a picnic and band concert in the park and a Victorian fashion show with high tea. Other Ridgetown events on the day include the Ridgetown Farmers’ Market, Town-wide Yard Sales and Olde Time sales in local stores. For further information and reservations contact
John Taylor on 519 674 3022 or email rondeau1@xplornet.com 

Saturday, July 31, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Art on the Boulevard takes place in Erieau. Tables will be provided for art displays – or artists may provide their own background. All kinds of art is encouraged including music, poetry reading, theatrical performances. Five prizes will be awarded : first registration, oldest artist, youngest artist, most creative display and people's choice award. Artists may rent a space (approx. 12 ' long) for $20. Tables (6 ft.) are available for an additional $5 each. For further details contact Mary Anne Patterson at erieaupa@gmail.com or visit www.eaubuoy.com.

September 3-6
86th Annual North Buxton Labour Day Weekend Homecoming Celebration takes place in North Buxton. Inaugurated in 1924 as a one-day festival this event which draws thousands of visitors now lasts four days.
Friday September 3rd -  History & Genealogy Conference
Saturday September 4th - Family Feud Baseball Tournament & Party In The Park
Sunday September 5th - Special Church Services & more.
Monday September 6th -  Parade, Car Show, Craft Booths, Food Vendors, Children's activities.
Buxton Museum Open to visitors all four days. For more information call 519-352-4799 or check www.buxtonmuseum.com 
 
Saturday, October 30
The Thames Art Gallery will open its doors for the fourth biennial Eye for Art Reception, a juried exhibition and sale showcasing artwork by Chatham-Kent artists, in partnership with the Carlo Rossini Memorial Diabetes Foundation. This year we invite arts patrons to have “A Devil of a Good Time!” at our costume party.  All ghouls and goblins will enjoy themselves and support a great cause. Eye for Art has always been the premier showcase for Chatham-Kent artists. All profits from this event will remain in Chatham-Kent, the proceeds shared by the two organizing groups. The twinning of health care and preservation of cultural identity for Chatham-Kent make the Eye for Art Gala a very meaningful endeavour.  Eye for Art is an excellent opportunity to acquire work of local artists. The reception is a good place to dress up and have a great time! 
Tickets available at the Chatham Cultural Centre Box Office, beginning September 1st, 2010.  For more information, contact: Mindy Bowls, Curatorial Assistant, Thames Art Gallery at 519.354.8346 ext 41.