There was a warm glow at Haney Heritage Village Saturday evening as visitors sipped Crannog ale, feasted on burgers and basked in the warmth of James Murray’s tales of life.
It was a full house as Murray, ably accompanied by guitarist Peter Clark, spun stories of his friendship with 101-year-old resident Clara Johnson, fishing, egg-salad sandwiches and his now-deceased companion Duffy.
Written several years ago, the story of Duffy, his border collie and best friend for close to 20 years, brought tears to more than a few eyes.
Other stories drew laughter in an hour-long program that ended with an encore request.
A beautiful site that accommodates many events well, Haney Heritage Village is well into planning for the next event – a Taste of the Shuswap.
Enjoy the eclectic and delicious tastes of the area at the 14th Annual Harvest Celebration from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18.
Marking the end of the harvest season, the village with its beautiful gardens creates a wonderful canvas for the fall colours and decorations.
More than 20 local restaurants, businesses, wineries and brewers are participating in this year’s event.
Visitors can sample both savoury and sweet culinary treats accompanied by delicious beer and wines.
“We anticipate a large visitor turnout for this highly anticipated fall event.” says Susan Mackie, visitor services co-ordinator.
This culinary experience will be heightened by the musical talents of Jordan Dick and Aimee Laws.
Dick was a busy performer in southern Ontario, where he completed a three year music diploma program majoring in jazz guitar.
During his student years, he was a composer and guitarist for the progressive rock quartet, Of Sound Mind.
Dick has continued to study and teach many different musical styles, and continues to expand his abilities as a musician. Now living in Salmon Arm, he regularly performs in various rock, swing, folk, and R&B groups, most recently with the Sandy Cameron Jazz Quartet and the Salmon Armenians.
“Aimee Laws’ petite size proves that ‘big things do come in small packages,’” says Mackie. “She released her non-profit EP, The Beginnings, in 2008, following it in 2009 with Only Human, her official debut album.
Released during her showcase at the recent Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival, her performance was described as “…a pure delight.”
Laws and her band are working on material for a new EP they hope to finish in the spring of 2012.
Enjoy the afternoon of food, drink and entertainment at the earlybird price of $20 each until Sept. 16.
Tickets are available by calling 250-832-5243, visiting R.J. Haney Heritage Village at 751 Hwy 97B, SEDO Butchers & Deli on 10th Avenue SW, Touch’ A Texas at the Mall at Piccadilly, Shuswap Pie Company on Alexander Street, Culinary Inspirations Gourmet & Specialty Foods on McLeod Street NE, M&M Meat Shop on the Trans-Canada Highway SW.
Regular tickets are $25 and can be purchased from the village Sept. 17 and 18.
For more information, visit www.salmonarmuseum.org or call the village at 250-832-5243.