Remembering Reva Dolgoy - theHumm November 2019
Remembering Reva Dolgoy - theHumm November 2019
By — Sonja Seiler
I first met Reva Dolgoy when I was a toddler. She was volunteering alongside my mother at the Victoria School Museum in Carleton Place and, being the keen little helper that I was, I would often accompany my mother to the work sessions there. Upon first impression, Reva was to me, a grand woman. Tall, thin, pioneer-skirt-wearing, and with the most fabulous big smile. Her kindness was infectious, and I always felt like my heart was wrapped in a warm hug whenever I was around her. Her presence to me became synonymous with the museum, so much so that I called it “Reva’s House.”
As an adult reminiscing on those days some thirty years ago, it is of no surprise to me that this is where Reva chose to spend her time. She was always an advocate for the arts, for culture and for education. From saving heritage buildings to making her own pottery, Reva was passionate. And that passion was inspirational.
As my sister Sonja and I grew older we became heavily involved in the arts — Sonja with her singing and acting, and I with my piano and backstage work. We both had recitals locally and participated in school productions. If Reva knew about it, she’d be in the audience cheering us on. When the time came to apply to universities, and with both of us wishing to pursue the arts, Reva was our biggest champion. Whether sitting in a chair in our living room enjoying a house concert or behind a table as a board member for arts bursaries, her support and encouragement meant the world to us.
My relationship with Reva continued to grow after high school when I left for the National Theatre School of Canada. During visits home I would always be sure to pop in on Reva and bring her up to date with the theatrical goings-on in my life. There was something so calming about those visits with her. Her place would be immaculate. There would be art everywhere. The radio would be on in the background (always CBC), and the kettle would boil, ready to make the usual pot of Bengal Spice tea — affectionately dubbed “Reva Tea” in our household. We would sip away while yammering on about the theatre scene in Montreal, which Russian director I was working with, and was I enjoying the theatre history class taught by novelist Francis Reid? Her knowledge of the Canadian theatre and arts scene always amazed me. She was like Yoda, giving out sage wisdom that perfectly fit my career path.
With her husband Leonard requiring more care, Reva eventually moved to Toronto to be closer to her sons. I had graduated theatre school and also found myself living in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood of Toronto — just a short walk from Reva. We would set up visits periodically. A new apartment but still the same signature Reva vibe. Great art on the walls (including her own work), the CBC in the background, and as always, the Bengal Spice tea at the ready. The conversations shifted as the years went by. Less was spoken about my career and more time was taken for personal dialogues. We discussed the important things: love, family, health, happiness. She would often joke that her age made her wise in all of these matters, and I always agreed.
When I left Toronto and moved to Almonte, it felt like returning to the “Land of Reva” in a way. I always smile while walking past her old house on Euphemia street, and I half expect to see her every time I reach the top of those steps in the Old Town Hall! The memory of her and the initiatives and community she built during her time here is still very strong.
The last time I visited Reva was earlier this year. She was in her room lying on her bed when I walked in. She turned to look at me, and her whole face lit up. Even though she was in her nineties, she still recognized my face and remembered exactly who I was. She kissed me on the mouth and grabbed my hand, ordered me to sit beside her and tell her everything — her fabulous big smile lighting up the room.
Reva, to me, was a unique hybrid of mentor, friend, and surrogate grandmother. Being in her presence felt magical somehow, like the richness of the life she lived and intentionally cultivated was as potent and nourishing as the tea she poured you when you went to visit her. I think of her every time I drink Bengal Spice. That richness nurtured her wisdom and insight, which she bestowed upon us (my sister and me) like delicious (if straightforward) medicine. Her keen observations, dry wit and ever-present eye sparkle had the combined effect of making me feel like whatever creative talents I had to offer the world must be shared. Under her care, it was not an option to dim your light. She was my forever champion, and I remain forever in awe of her powerhouse ability to move souls and mountains at both the personal and community level. I would not have the access or confidence I do to my biggest dreams were it not for her fierce love and support. I will miss her greatly.
Canadian Winterscapes The Algonquin Ensemble Premieres Stunning New Production - theHumm November 2019
The Algonquin Ensemble has created a stunning new production and it’s coming to the First Unitarian in Ottawa on Saturday, November 30 and to the Almonte United Church on Sunday, December 1. Canadian Winterscapes is a multi-media journey celebrating the untamed beauty and indomitable spirit of a Canadian winter through music, art and photography. With moving pieces from the ensemble’s acclaimed début production Sonic Palette, uplifting arrangements of traditional seasonal repertoi......
David Ivens —He’s Got a Hammer - theHumm November 2019
By Sally Hansen
Art… and Soul
That’s not correct. He has many, many specialized hammers and other metalworking tools, and he hammers in the morning and in the evening and in the afternoons. And he’s been happily doing it for over forty years. You know you’ve found your niche when what you want to do after you retire is to do more of what you’ve been working at.
David Ivens ran a restoration and fabrication company in Toronto for forty years, creating, reproducing and......
No More Secrets Healthy Minds, Healthy Men - theHumm November 2019
On Tuesday, September 7, 1982, Peter Hamer walked into Bell High School for the first time. He was a shy kid taking the first steps into his new school eager to begin grade 9. Like every other young person beginning their high school adventure he had all the hopes and dreams for a future filled with opportunity and excitement. The next four years at Bell would prove to be anything but that.
Not much of a jock, or a high achiever scholastically, Peter found his place in the music room. Par......
Sivarulrasa Gallery’s5th Anniversary Show - theHumm November 2019
Almonte’s Sivarulrasa Gallery is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year — the gallery is incredibly grateful to the people of Almonte, Lanark County, and the broader region for all the support and encouragement it has received over the past five years. The 5th Anniversary Show will bring together works by 22 talented artists from Almonte, Eastern Ontario, and across Canada. The show runs from November 22 to December 29 and will feature sculpture, paintings, drawin......
Who Stole Christmasfrom Mississippi Mills? Who? Who? - theHumm November 2019
By — Heather Phaneuf
Disgruntled are you? Could it be the pre-winter blues? The looming holly-daze? Or are you fundamentally concerned about the suspicious red boxes that traipsed willy-nilly through last month’s Humm? Hmmm? You should be!
Something is amiss in Mississippi Mills. Something is horribly wrong. Someone is ranting about Almonte, Pakenham, Ramsay and why the heck isn’t it called Alpakram? Almapakarama? Ramalamapakahama-ding-dong? Why wouldn’t you be concerned?
Solve the mystery! Grab a ticket to......
rND Bakery: Beyond Wheat - theHumm November 2019
By Sebastian Weetabix
Wherein the hero is identified, a disease is defeated and medicinal food is defined. All this in a thousand words and one picture! (For those coming in late, see my column in the October 2019 issue). Our story resumes with the reminder that celiac disease is a real disorder, not a preference or a sensitivity. It can be difficult to diagnose but even a small amount of (wheat) gluten can be the source of much and long-lasting misery.
Wheat and wheat processing played a ......
Mississippi Masala Child Haven Fundraiser on November - theHumm November 2019
It’s time again for Mississippi Masala — the fourth annual festive evening in support of Child Haven International. Come on out for an enjoyable social and cultural evening!
On Saturday, November 23, you can beat the chilly weather by immersing yourself in warm South Asian culture. The Carleton Place Curling Club will be transformed for the evening: draped in the rich colours of Indian fabrics and featuring talented young Kathak dancers from the Upsana Dance School. Enjoy a ......
Deck the Small Halls Special Music for the Holiday Season! - theHumm November 2019
Get festive in small halls across Eastern Ontario! The Ontario Festival of Small Halls is bringing big names in music to even more special places this holiday season.
The Festival is growing its holiday offerings, presenting thirteen shows leading up to Christmas that include two Juno-nominated artists: the undeniable musical talent of Royal Wood, as well as the dynamic live performance and unforgettable harmonies of the Fortunate Ones. They are also delighted to bring back Còig, one of Atlantic Cana......
2019 Heritage Perth Christmas House Tour Fourteen Years of Holiday Cheer & Fundraising for Education and Literacy - theHumm November 2019
By — Mary Rothfels
We all have favourite traditions to lighten our hearts as the daylight hours shorten and the temperatures fall. The annual Heritage Perth Christmas House Tour is one such joyful occasion to break up the winter months. For 2019, the Perth and District Chapter of the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) has once again lined up an incredible selection of eight homes, transformed for the holidays with inspiring festive décor presented by talented local designers and florists. The pop......
Author, Author! Lesley Choyce & Charlotte Gray in Almonte - theHumm November 2019
Author Lesley Choyce is coming to Almonte to meet some of the folks who loved his book The Unlikely Redemption of John Alexander MacNeil. With over 535 copies sold locally, it’s a Mill Street Books bestseller, beloved for its characters and Cape Breton setting.
Come out on November 12 and celebrate the launch of his new novel, Broken Man on a Halifax Pier. It’s a tale of one man’s shipwrecked life and an unlikely crew of rescuers. Charles Howard has lost his jo......
Holiday Fun with Robin Hood & the Babes in the Wood - theHumm November 2019
The above is the description of a pantomime according to Dictionary.com . Many folks who are unfamiliar with the genre mistakenly think there will be no talking, but the opposite couldn’t be more true. There is singing and dancing, and an important part of the pantomime experience is audience participation. We polite Canadians are reluctant to shout out at a show, but it is expected here! You MUST boo the baddies and cheer on the......
Perth’s Nick of Time Show - theHumm November 2019
Perth’s longstanding Nick of Time artisan show is back again this year, taking place on Saturday, December 7 from 10am to 3:30pm in the historic McMartin House, located at 125 Gore Street East.
All three floors of the McMartin House will be packed full of the work of artisans who do their very best to tempt and tantalise with wonderful creations and tasty treats. Enjoy shopping in a festive atmosphere and leave the crowded shopping malls behind as you relax and enjoy all that ......
Seeing RED at Strévé - theHumm November 2019
The fusion of fashion and art through the colour red is the next themed exhibit at Perth’s Strévé Design Studio Boutique Gallery, taking place during the months of November and December.
Red is the colour of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, war, danger, strength, power and determination as well as passion, desire and love. Red is a very emotionally intense colour. For the months of November and December, we associate red with Remembrance Day poppies and festive holidays such as Ch......
Folkus Heads into 2020 - theHumm November 2019
By — Sandy Irvin is the Artistic Director of the Folkus Concert Series
Almonte’s Folkus Concert Series is pleased to be announcing another great season of music for your ears. This year’s season focuses (sorry) a lot on vocal harmony. We will bring you sweet singers, choruses galore, storytellers in song, and there will be laughs along the way too. Folkus receives funding from the Government of Canada and that allows us to take chances on bigger-name artists, to support local artists opening, and to support music in the community. We also couldn’t do anything......
A Complete Waste of Time - theHumm November 2019
By Glenda Jones
I’m not proud of it, but I can procrastinate along with the best of them. I try to follow the adage “spend time, don’t waste it”, but it’s a hard thing to do when the weather is crisp and bright,......
Upcoming at Curious & Kind - theHumm November 2019
By — Danielle Grégoire
October was a rather monumental month for Curious & Kind. We had our first sold-out show when DeAnne Smith, one of Canada’s top stand-up comedians, came to our small town and drew a big beaut......
Come to the Christmas Artisan Market! - theHumm November 2019
If you are looking for thoughtful one-of-a-kind gifts for this holiday season, the 2nd annual Christmas Artisan Market will be sure to please. Hosted by the Smiths Falls & District Arts &......
The Life & Timesof Joe Perkins - theHumm November 2019
From the time he arrived in Perth in 1938 until the day he died in an Ottawa hospital in 1990, Joe Perkins was a dominant figure in the town of Perth. Part showman, part salesman, over the years ......
Why Become an Activist? (When You Would Rather Sit in a Rocking Chair) - theHumm November 2019
By — Rose Tekel
The Boomers are now reaching what has been called “the golden years.” We harvest fruits of years of labour and are beyond the cares and responsibilities of the on-going problems of the world.
......
Gifts of Art for $100 & Under - theHumm November 2019
It’s that time of year again — when you can find fun, affordable art for yourself or for others at the West Carleton Arts Society’s $100 and Under Show and Sale. More than 25 local artists and ar......
Life Lessons Or, How to Get the Gig and Keep It - theHumm November 2019
By Tony Stuart
A former student who is currently studying Music at university was recently in to talk with me. I love having these opportunities to catch up, and truth be told, I would go back to school tomorro......
Art and About - theHumm November 2019
By Miss Cellaneous
Spirit Seeds at MVTM
Spirit Seeds: A Celebration of Indigenous Beadwork explores historical and contemporary beadwork created by the indigenous people of the Great Lak......
Where theBad-Asses Are… - theHumm November 2019
By Kelly Thompson
Someone recently asked me what would happen if I messed up at work. It was part of a job evaluation process, but it actually made me stop and think about that question. I replied that the questio......
The Positive Impact ofVolunteering with SchoolBOX - theHumm November 2019
By — Alexandra Few
SchoolBOX is a registered charity in Canada and Nicaragua that is making education a possibility for children. Founded in 2006 by Tom Affleck, SchoolBOX was able to put two young girls from Nicar......
All Aboard: Much Afoot in Smiths Falls - theHumm November 2019
By John Pigeau
When the inevitable chill and early dark of November set in, I turn to the most elemental of comforts: good books and warm sweaters, crockpot chili and grilled cheese sandwiches, movie marathons ......
Living Stones Christmas Sale - theHumm November 2019
John Schweighardt will be hosting his eighth annual Christmas event on December 7 at his studio situated just northwest of the village of Lanark. A renovated century-old log horse stable, Sc......
Guatemala Stove Project’s Annual Fundraising Dance - theHumm November 2019
Come on out and dance for a great cause! On Friday, November 15, the Guatemala Stove Project is hosting a fundraising dance featuring the talented local band Open Road playing rock & rol......
Remembering Reva Dolgoy - theHumm November 2019
By — Sonja Seiler
I first met Reva Dolgoy when I was a toddler. She was volunteering alongside my mother at the Victoria School Museum in Carleton Place and, being the keen little helper that I was, I would often ......
Wintertime Cheer - theHumm November 2019
By — Barb Bottriell
If you’re looking for a way to start your Christmas season off in a happy, uplifting mood, you couldn’t do better than to come and enjoy a selection of beautiful carols and seasonal songs present......
Christmas Fair at MERA - theHumm November 2019
The 17th annual MERA Christmas Fair will take place on November 23 from 9am to 3pm at the MERA Schoolhouse in McDonalds Corners. Come out to support local artisans, have a wonderful treat fr......
That Happened in Carleton Place?!?!! Mudds Present CP200+ Time to Remember - theHumm November 2019
By — Jenny Pfitzer
If history helps us to discover our past, define our present and shape our future, then the CP200+ Time to Remember show gives you that and much more: drama, songs, smiles… and tears!
Join th......
To See the Stars: Imagining a Life A Reading from Jan Andrews’ Last Novel by Ellis Lynn Duschenes - theHumm November 2019
By — Jane Ellens
On Saturday, November 16, there is a marvellous opportunity to celebrate Jan Andrews’ life as a writer, an internationally recognized storyteller, a rock climber, and a woman who lived her l......
See Double Visionin Almonte! - theHumm November 2019
Canada’s Ultimate Foreigner tribute band, Double Vision, delivers all the hits you expect and more. Selling out audiences throughout Ottawa and the Southern Ontario areas, Double Vision recreates......
Gift of Art Show & Sale - theHumm November 2019
This very popular show is back again, featuring works of art from some of Ottawa’s finest artists. The show features sculptors, painters, photographers, fabric artists and more. With free parking......
Dec 14 Back Forty Holiday Open House
Dec 14 Kintail Country Christmas
Dec 15 A Musical Celebration of Christmas
Dec 21 - 22 O Christmas Tea
- A Concert of Strumming, Singing & Fluting A Musical Adventure for Children
- Catherine Arbour – School’s Out –Playtime!
- It’s A Wonderful Life A Radio Play to Get You into the Holiday Spirit!
- Holiday Roundup ofBooks by Local Authors
- Holiday Open House Annual Festive Day at Back Forty Artisan Cheese
- And the Winners Are…
- Loving Art and its Value, Right Here in the Valley
- A Christmas Gift of Music Holiday Concert by the CP Town Singers
- Buy Art, Support Interval House!
- Pine Ridge Christmas A Two-Day Sale of Art and Pottery