Thank you to everyone who came out to take part in this year’s pumpkin carving contest. The first place winners are: Lisa Morgan, Kimberly Dorn, Mary N., Taneesha and Penelope. Each will receive a gift donated by Deb Kruks of South Hill Designs. Ribbon winners are: Wesley, Gabriel, Jessica Norn, Emma Wall, Janice Konklin and James Kirkman.
See you all next year!
Light fest needs help
The Rollin Art Centre needs volunteers to hang lights for the Celebration of Lights. On Saturday, Nov. 14 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. we are having a light hanging work-party in the gardens. If you can help hang lights and can spare a few hours, it would be much appreciated.
Author Poirier launches books
Gather in the gallery Saturday, Nov.14 from 1–3 pm to help celebrate Karen Poirier’s launch of her new books. Across a Prairie Sky is a fictionalized story that was inspired by stories told to me by Karen’s mother about life on the prairies when she was growing up, and Ronald and Donald is a children’s book written in rhyme and illustrated by Poirier.
Poirier will be doing some readings, possibly from both books. She will also be giving away a signed copy of Ronald and Donald to the first three children (one per family) seven years and under to come to the launch to hear the readings.
Fortin’s fashions brighten Rollin
The next art exhibit at the Rollin Art Centre, begins Nov. 17, and features something new. Alberni Valley fashion designer, Stephanie Fortin, will showcase many of her talents, including pieces recently designed for Portal Players musicals as well as some current fashions.
Don’t miss this exciting display of high fashions, titled, “Expect the Unexpected”! Make sure you mark your calendars to join us in the gallery, Saturday, Nov. 21 from 1–3 p.m., for refreshments and to meet this talented young designer.
Christmas in the Valley
Alberni Valley Craft Fair Association presents its 41st Annual Christmas craft and arts fair. Fri. Nov. 13 (3-8 pm), Sat. Nov. 14 (10-5 pm) and Sun. Nov. 15 (11-4:30 pm) free admission, wheelchair accessible at the Athletic Hall.
Arts council celebrates
The board of directors of the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley would like to invite you to join us in the gallery for cake and refreshments, Thurs. Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., to help celebrate the Community Arts Council’s 50th anniversary.
Bring your photos, stories or just come and show support to this amazing organization that has with-stood the test of time, in supporting local artists while growing art in the Alberni Valley for 50 years.
Market at the Mill for Christmas
McLean Mill Christmas Market is always a favourite event here in the Alberni Valley. This year’s markets takes place Fri. Nov. 27 (4-8 pm), Sat. Nov. 28 (11-8 pm) & Sun. Nov. 29 (11-4 pm) - Sat. Dec. 5 (11-8 pm) & Sun Dec. 6 (11-4 pm).
The steam train runs Sat. Nov. 28 and Sun. Nov. 29 at 12:30 p.m.. Some artists include, jewellery, wood turning, soaps, homemade candies, sandblasted glassware, paper crafts, jams and jellies and pottery and much more.
Barkley Sound Choir concert
Our concert on Dec. 6 begins at 2:30 pm at ADSS, titled, “Can’t Wait for Christmas!”
Barkley Sound, conducted by Bonnie Wallbank, will be joined by Phil’s Harmonics Strings and the United Church Hand bell Choir, conductor Mike Villette.
Tickets will be available at Rollin Art Centre, $10.
Melissa Martin is the Arts Administrator for the Community Arts Council, at the Rollin Art Centre. Please call 250-724-3412 or e-mail communityarts@shawcable.com.