Shows
Stratford Town Talk33. Stratford Town Talk: May 8th, 2025In this edition:
- An interview with Michele Beaton, President of the Stratford and Area Lions Club, and important information regarding upcoming recreation and cultural programming, plus updates regarding community notices, ongoing inititaives, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected...2025-05-0810 minStratford Town Talk32. Stratford Town Talk: April 24th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding upcoming recreation and cultural programming, the federal election, plus updates regarding community notices, ongoing inititaives, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-04-2506 minStratford Town Talk31. Stratford Town Talk: April 10th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding the upcoming federal election, the 2025/22 town budgets, new community and rebate programs, plus updates regarding upcoming campaigns, ongoing inititaives, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-04-1006 min
The Stratford SliceCurds, Cider and Commerce - Aaron Martin on Tariffs and TransformationIn this episode of The Stratford Slice Craig chats with Aaron Martin, Manager of the Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce, for a wide-ranging conversation about the local economic impact of the Trump tariffs on agriculture, manufacturing, and other key sectors. We also delve into Aaron’s entrepreneurial journey—from dairy farming and crafting water buffalo cheese to his latest venture launching a winery and cidery.2025-04-1024 min
The Stratford SliceThe Arts Start Here - With Ron DodsonIn this episode of The Stratford Slice, Craig Thompson sits down with longtime arts champion Ron Dodson to explore Stratford’s vibrant cultural scene and its future. As co-founder of the Stratford Arts and Culture Collective and a member of the Grand Trunk Renewal Committee, Ron shares his vision for transforming the 18-acre former railway site in downtown Stratford into a dynamic neighbourhood that includes an accessible community arts centre. With decades of experience as a high school drama teacher, Ron brings a deep passion for the arts and community building. 2025-04-0336 minStratford Town Talk30. Stratford Town Talk: March 27th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding new community programming and the Annual Resident Survey, plus updates regarding upcoming campaigns, ongoing inititaives, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-03-2706 min
The Stratford SlicePutting on the RitzIn this episode of The Stratford Slice, Craig sits down with architect and passionate community advocate Robert Ritz. From his roots growing up in Stratford to his ongoing work with the Rotary Club, Robert shares his vision for building a better city amid the challenges posed by the Canada–U.S. trade standoff. We dive into pressing issues like housing, smart urban planning, and the importance of community-led initiatives. With heart, history, and a focus on the future, Robert offers thoughtful insights on how Stratford can rise to meet the moment and thrive in uncertain times.2025-03-2737 min
Stratford MailAnother Woman's MailSend us a textA 1781 letter written by Stratford-reared Alice Lee Shippen is mistakenly delivered to Braintree rather than to Boston. Politically literate, if shaped by family partiality, Alice's letter offers its unintended recipient clarity about intrigues involving an absent husband on diplomatic assignment. At the heart of these intrigues is a much beloved figure in the American mythos, Dr. Benjamin Franklin. But Dr. Franklin wasn't beloved by all, not quite the hero then that he has become, especially not to those who worked with him during the Revolution and expressed frustration with his idiosyncratic ways of...2025-03-2721 minStratford Town Talk29. Stratford Town Talk: March 13th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding the Annual Resident Survey, plus updates regarding upcoming programs, ongoing inititaives, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-03-1306 minStratford Town Talk28. Stratford Town Talk: February 27th, 2025In this edition:
- A feature interveiw regarding the Residential Tree Planting Program, plus important information on upcoming meetings, programs, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-02-2708 min
The Stratford SliceGazing into the StarlightThis episode takes a deep dive into Stratford’s evolving food and tourism culture. Craig is joined by co-host Joanie Chapple for a lively discussion with Megan Jones, co-owner of The Starlight, and Executive Chef Yva Santini. We explore Stratford’s restaurant scene, the importance of community gathering spaces, and how the city’s hospitality industry differs from that of Toronto’s. Megan shares her journey from running the Gaslight, a bar in Toronto’s Junction neighbourhood, to launching the Starlight in Stratford during the pandemic, while Yva reflects on her 25-year culinary career which began at the Stratford Chef’s Scho2025-02-2656 minStratford Town Talk26. Stratford Town Talk: February 13th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding the continuing WinterFest, plus an interview with Debbie Reid of the Stratfords of the World Reunion, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-02-1308 minStratford Town Talk25. Stratford Town Talk: January 30th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding the the upcoming WinterFest, an interview with Bruce Fitchett of the Mayflower Seniors Club, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-01-3007 minStratford Town Talk24. Stratford Town Talk: January 16th, 2025In this edition:
- Important information regarding the winter season, the new Poppy Art Project, and new community programs and initiatives within the town!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2025-01-1604 minStratford Town Talk23. Stratford Town Talk: December 19th, 2024In this edition:
- A feature year-end interview with Mayor, Steve Ogden + much more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-12-1912 min
Stratford MailIn the Bleak MidwinterSend us a textOf the two epically scaled paintings of George Washington’s Delaware crossing, by far the most recognizable is Washington Crossing the Delaware by German-born, Philadelphia-raised Emanuel Leutze. This theatrical 1851 painting (measuring roughly 21 x 12 ft.) hangs today at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its charismatic Washington commands the prow of the boat as around him the diverse peoples drawn into his orbit and the cause he represents struggle together in that cause. The lesser known 1819 painting (measuring 17 x 12 ft.) by Thomas Sully depicts an illuminated Washington astride a white mount with the night sky br...2024-12-1608 minStratford Town Talk22. Stratford Town Talk: December 5th, 2024In this edition:
- A feature interview with Betty Begg-Brooks of Gifts From The Heart, plus important information regarding the New years Levee, new Sump Pump Rebate program, and more initiatives within the town!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and...2024-12-0610 minStratford Town Talk21. Stratford Town Talk: November 21st, 2024In this edition:
- A feature interview discussing the upcoming Light Up The Night Event, plus important information regarding upcoming events, community projects and initiatives within the town.
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-11-2108 minStratford Town Talk20. Stratford Town Talk: November 7th, 2024In this edition:
- A feature interview discussing the upcoming Stratford and Area Food Drive, plus important information regarding upcoming events, community projects and initiatives within the town.
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-11-0707 min
Stratford MailFire Burn and Cauldron BubbleSend us a textTime once again for a seasonal special edition of Stratford Mail. Visitors to Stratford are often struck by the wards against witches and evil spirits incised into its exterior brick and interior floors. These marks are reminders of our ancestors’ belief that this visible world overlapped an invisible world that was a source of both palpable wonders and terrors. Witches and conjured spirits were believed to gain access to homes through hearths, windows, and other openings, and hide in the shadowy nooks, crannies, and corners of homes. Once inside they would vex the in...2024-10-2816 minStratford Town Talk19. Stratford Town Talk: October 24th, 2024In this edition:
- Important information regarding Halloween activities within the town, and more information on upcoming community projects and initiatives!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-10-2405 minStratford Town Talk18. Stratford Town Talk: October 10th, 2024In this edition:
- A feature interview with Stratfrod Watershed Cooridnator Sarah Wray, plus information on upcoming community projects and initiatives!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-10-1008 minStratford Town Talk17. Stratford Town Talk: September 26th, 2024In this edition:
- A feature interview with Research and Engagemnet Cooridnator Jade Veera, plus information on upcoming community gatherings and recreational opportunities!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-09-2608 min
Stratford MailSchool DaysSend us a textBack to school with Stratford Mail! This month we think about educational opportunity in the Virginia colony. The rural Northern Neck was slow to develop the kind of city and district schools found in the more densely populated New England colonies. This posed no problem for elites, who could afford to engage private tutors for their children and complete their education abroad at one of the English grammar schools or domestically at one of the newly established colleges. Differences of access and curriculum were stark depending on race, class, and gender. Death and...2024-09-1817 minStratford Town Talk16. Stratford Town Talk: September 12th, 2024In this edition:
- A feature interview with Youth and Family Cooridnator Duane Pineau, plus information on upcoming community gatherings and projects, including Fall Fest, the Cheryl Duffy Memorial Walk, Fall Recreation Programs, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected...2024-09-1308 minStratford Town Talk15. Stratford Town Talk: August 29th, 2024In this edition:
- Information on upcoming community gatherings and projects, including the Rural Beautification Society's Community Spirit People's Choice Award, the Stratford Legacy Book, Fall Recreation Programs, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their...2024-08-2906 minStratford Town Talk14. Stratford Town Talk: August 15th, 2024In this edition:
- Information on upcoming community gatherings and projects, including the Stratford Legacy Book, Resident Meetup, Fall Fest, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-08-1505 minStratford Town Talk13. Stratford Town Talk: August 1st, 2024In this edition:
- Pt 2 of an interview with Town of Stratford Mayor, Steve Ogden
- Information on upcoming community gatherings and projects, including the Trans Canada Trail and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date...2024-08-0109 min
Stratford MailEvery Heart ThrobsSend us a textBefore Beatlemania, there was Marquismania! 200 years ago this August, the Marquis de Lafayette returned to these shores after an absence of 40 years. In his 13-month 'farewell tour' of the 24 United States, the nation he helped to found, the Marquis was cheered and celebrated by grateful crowds in the hundreds and thousands. As the 50th anniversary of Independence loomed, nostalgia burned hot for heroes of the Revolution like the Marquis, whose generation was vanishing too quickly into memory by 1824. James Madison hadn't seen the Marquis since 1784, when he shared his first impression of the...2024-07-2012 minStratford Town Talk12. Stratford Town Talk: July 18th, 2024In this edition:
- Pt 1 of an interview with Town of Stratford Mayor, Steve Ogden
- Information on upcoming recreational and cultural programs, the Volunteers of the Year Award rceipients, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and...2024-07-1808 minStratford Town Talk11. Stratford Town Talk: July 4th, 2024In this edition:
- Pt 2 of an interview with Crossroad Fire Department Chief Greg McCormick
- Information on upcoming recreational and community programs, the new Stratford Legacy book project, and more!
Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely...2024-07-0407 minStratford Town Talk10. Stratford Town Talk: June 20th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-06-2007 minStratford Town Talk9. Stratford Town Talk: June 6th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-06-0606 min
Stratford MailResting in PeaceSend us a textSociologist Émile Durkheim taught us that the study of human mourning raises a window on human values and lifeways. Returning after a brief hiatus, Stratford Mail ponders elite deathways in the Northern Neck, with close attention to the opinions of Robert Carter III, as recorded by Philip Vickers Fithian, the tutor at Carter's Nomini Hall. And we clear up confusion about the final resting place of Stratford's own Thomas and Hannah Lee, who chose not to be buried on the grounds of the home they established together. To support Stratford Mail or...2024-06-0315 minStratford Town Talk8. Stratford Town Talk: May 23rd, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford (Prince Edward Island), featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-05-2305 minStratford Town Talk7. Stratford Town Talk: May 9th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-05-0908 minStratford Town Talk6. Stratford Town Talk: April 25th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-04-2606 minStratford Town Talk5. Stratford Town Talk: April 11th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-04-1205 minStratford Town Talk4. Stratford Town Talk: March 28th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-04-0307 min
Stratford MailHannah Corbin, WidowSend us a textHannah Lee Corbin was undeniably a force to be reckoned with. She attracts interest from scholars and history-lovers alike, whether for her unusual private life, her defection from the established Anglican faith of her family, or her general independence of spirit. Hannah is sometimes celebrated as an 18th century proponent of women’s right to vote, which is a claim requiring more nuance than it is usually given. Hannah posed in private correspondence poignant questions about political representation and the political participation of women. She sought to persuade her famous brother that "no ta...2024-03-2512 minStratford Town Talk3. Stratford Town Talk: March 14th, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-03-1508 min
The Stratford SliceThe Dairy Industry - Not Just MilkWhen people think of Stratford, they naturally think of culture and the arts. Think again. Think Milk! Believe it or not, Stratford is at the epicentre of Canada’s dairy industry. So it’s not surprising that this city is home to the annual Canadian Dairy XPO, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024. Craig sits down with Jordon Underhill, founder of the Canadian Dairy XPO, and learns that the dairy industry is much more than just milk.
https://dairyxpo.ca/2024-03-0722 minStratford Town Talk2. Stratford Town Talk: February 29, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-03-0107 minStratford Town Talk1. Stratford Town Talk: February 16, 2024Stratford Town Talk is an official podcast from the Town of Stratford, featuring the latest information on town events, services, programs, notices, council, recreation, and all other news and notes related to what's happening in Stratford! Published bi-weekly, this fast and friendly podcast provides the perfect opportunity for both new and long-time Stratford residents to stay connected, and completely up-to-date with their community!2024-02-1607 min
Stratford MailResistance & ResilienceSend us a textIn commemoration of Black History month, Stratford Mail considers a trio of portraits of Black women and men, two of whom were enslaved at Stratford Hall under Colonel Philip Ludwell Lee. The stories of Sawney, Henrietta Steptoe, and Louisa Thomas, however partial and fragmentary, offer valuable lessons of resistance and resilience in the face of the longest odds. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, their stories help us to enrich and enliven our national narratives about liberty and other founding values, and to see those values as...2024-02-1413 min
Stratford MailThe High RollersSend us a text1778, British-occupied Philadelphia. The American alliance with France and defeat at Saratoga have depressed the British outlook on the war. General William Howe pays the cost, resigning his command of British land forces. Only days from the order to withdraw from Philadelphia, Howe's officers organize a fabled farewell blowout called the Meschianza, which is as much about releasing anxiety and reimagining how the war ought to have gone as about bidding Howe adieu. When patriots retake Philadelphia in July, official Independence celebrations are subdued, but the common folk organize a memorable parade that Richard H...2024-01-1114 min
Stratford MailUnfinished BusinessSend us a textJoin Dr. Steffey for a special edition of Stratford Mail. In this final episode of Season 1, Hallowtide is upon us, and as the veil between the worlds grows thin, our minds turn to the 'hereafter,' and perhaps to the departed who haunt our here and now. What's the connection between historic sites like Stratford and ghosts? Which member of the Lee family compiled two books of ghost lore? What does ghost lore have to do with women's suffrage? Listen now to find out, and to hear of a haunting from old Virginia. 2023-10-2816 min
Stratford MailSpy GamesSend us a textAs conflict with England escalated, delegates to the 2nd Continental Congress foresaw the need for diplomatic and intelligence services. On 29 November 1775 the Committee for Correspondence was born, soon becoming the Committee for Secret Correspondence, and ultimately the Committee for Foreign Affairs on 17 April 1777. In the beginning, with war on the horizon, the likeliest prospective agents were Americans living abroad with established networks of information and alliance. The first agent recruited was born and reared at Stratford, and had been collecting intelligence for years. He was deeply placed in circles of London radicals and...2023-10-0614 min
Stratford MailBurning Peggy StewartSend us a textOn October 19, 1774 a tyrant minority in Annapolis compelled traders James Dick & Anthony Stewart to burn the merchant brigantine Peggy Stewart. The so-called Annapolis Tea Party differed from its Boston precedent in that there were no disguises, no concealing cover of night. The disposition of the Peggy Stewart and its cargo were topics of open deliberation and debate in public meetings organized to decide the matter. The meetings underscored and magnified local political tensions between patriots and their several methods of dissent and resistance. 24-year old Alice Lee of Blenheim (eyewitness to the bonfire...2023-09-0214 min
The Stratford SliceMusic and Memories with John MillerCraig chats with John Miller, the Founder and Artistic Director Emeritus of Stratford Summer Music who is now lending his considerable artistic talents to the Huron Waves Music Festival in Exeter, Ontario. Miller’s eclectic and varied career includes time spent in education as a teacher and vice principal, in politics, as an advisor to a cabinet minister, leading the Canadian Music Centre as National Director and as Executive Director of the Glenn Gould Foundation. John is one of Canada’s leading arts and culture figures whose accomplishments have been recognized in his community of Stratford. He has a star o...2023-08-0359 min
Stratford MailAll the RageSend us a textIn 1787 Thomas Lee Shippen, an American student at Inner Temple, London, shipped a hat to his sister Anne Home Livingston in Philadelphia. Nancy, as she was called by kith and kin, was living at Shippen House with her parents after her marriage to a scoundrel with a taste for scandal and no taste for divorce fell through. Tommy Shippen was a bon vivant and a bit of a clothes horse, writing home from London: "I am so transformed already by dress that you would hardly know me, curls to my hair, round hat, r...2023-07-2913 min
The Stratford SliceDavid Stones - Poetry in MotionIf Stratford had a poet laureate, David Stones would make a likely candidate. The retired business executive who now calls Stratford home, transformed his lifelong interest in poetry into a new artistic passion - one that combines words and music into spoken word performance art that has been drawing crowds across Southwestern Ontario. The author of two books of poetry - Infinite Sequels and Sfumato - David Stones discusses with Craig how poetry has helped him express his perception and opinions on the world we live in and how it has created meaning for his fans, many of whom...2023-07-2045 min
The Stratford SliceLarry McCabe - “The Crazy Fool”Anyone brave enough to survive more than three decades in the restaurant industry deserves respect and a sizable tip. Larry McCabe, however, likes to consider himself “A Pazzo Bouffon” (translation: A crazy fool), which also happen to be the names of the two successful restaurants he runs in the heart of downtown Stratford. Larry is also a newly elected member of Stratford City Council. Craig and Larry chat about the challenges facing not only the tourism and hospitality industries but small municipalities in general as communities everywhere deal with issues related to housing and affordability2023-07-0637 min
Stratford MailPainting Mr. PittSend us a textIf you’ve visited Stratford Hall since 2016, you likely noticed the looming full-length portrait of British statesman WIlliam Pitt the elder in our parlor. Standing at 8 feet by 5 feet, it’s difficult to miss! That painting reproduces the original now hanging in the Westmoreland County Museum. From the hand of Maryland painter Charles Willson Peale, the original shipped from London and arrived at Chantilly, the home of Richard Henry Lee, on April 7, 1769. When Americans still had confidence in the normal political process of the British empire, they commemorated the efforts of British polit...2023-06-3018 min
The Stratford SliceThe ‘Dean’ of Stratford HistoryCraig’s guest is Stratford and Perth County historian and writer Dean Robinson. The author of 23 books and the author/editor of eight other titles, Dean maintains that Stratford’s rich and colourful past is a unique part of our community’s character. Craig chats with Dean about his journalism career in London, Kitchener, Seaforth and Stratford and dives into some of the remarkable stories from Stratford’s past that inspired him to write the many books that make up his impressive library of popular history.2023-06-221h 16
The Stratford SliceDeanna Horton: From Global to Local Part 2In the second of two episodes, Craig chats with former Canadian diplomat, scholar and community advocate Deanna Horton. As a Canadian diplomat in Hamburg, Washington, Tokyo, and Vietnam, she has had a front-row seat to history. Now based in Stratford, she brings a big-picture perspective to her adopted hometown - reminding us that even places like Stratford can learn from the winds of change sweeping the world.2023-06-0130 min
Stratford MailWine & RattlesnakesSend us a textVirginia wine has made a comeback from its bleak beginnings. Cultivation failed to make native grapes competitive with European vintages, and European vines struggled to adapt to the challenges of foreign climates, soils, and pests. Interest in producing good quality wine from native grapes persisted across centuries, and was a preoccupation of Virginia planters, including the Masons, Carters, Washingtons, Jeffersons, and Lees. Stratford founder Thomas Lee experimented with 20 vines of Rhine grape acquired from Pennsylvanian Conrad Weiser, though it is unlikely he succeeded where so many others failed. This month Richard Henry...2023-05-3012 min
Stratford MailIn/human TrafficSend us a text1773. A letter and gift from prominent British abolitionist Granville Sharp prompt a thank you from Arthur Lee, whose antislavery writings circulated among abolitionists at home and abroad. Sharp may have encountered Lee in London, or possibly become acquainted through his abolitionist correspondent in Philadelphia, Anthony Benezet, who reprinted both of Lee's antislavery essays. Those essays model many of the strengths and weaknesses of antebellum antislavery literature. While recognizing fully the contradiction between colonial agitation for liberty and the continued use of enslaved laborers, and despite his rational and spiritual aversion to slavery, Arthur...2023-04-3017 min
Stratford MailDear CousinSend us a textA letter full of life and light from 12-year-old Alice Lee (1749-1789) of Blenheim plantation in Charles County, Maryland, to her second cousin William Lee of Stratford, a commercial agent for Virginia tobacco living in Tower Hill, London. Alice speaks her mind on 'tying the knot,' her eccentric Virginia relation known as 'the Squire,' and the pursuits of a 12-year-old recluse. Alice was well-known among the Virginia Lees and stood sponsor for Richard Henry Lee's son Cassius. Her mother Grace Ashton (who died the same year as her daughter) was the...2023-03-3113 min
Stratford MailBaptizing MatildaSend us a textThis month Elizabeth Jackson gives a piece of her mind to Martha Corbin (Turberville) of Portobago on the Rappahannock River and reports on a special event at Stratford. Working with letters from yesteryear we realize emphatically that the 'Devil is in the details,' and often those details lie just beyond our grasp. In consequence we float the known and the suspected to the surface and work assiduously on swelling their numbers by cracking the not-yet-known. This month's letter hums with all the above. If you have additional information about Elizabeth Jackson or...2023-02-2810 min
Stratford MailOur Man in LondonSend us a textControlling the narrative is at the center of this month's microcast. As tensions escalate between Britain and the colonies, Americans residing and working in London experienced a unique set of difficulties, especially Americans involved in the production and dissemination of political intelligence. In a letter dated 6 March 1785, Arthur Lee underlined for John Adams, "how powerful a political instrument the press is," and how "the readers of News-papers swallow intelligence much more greedily, than any of the rest of their contents." In the wake of events at Lexington and Concord in April 1775...2023-01-2506 min
The Stratford SliceOff the Shelf with The BookendsThe Bookends are Celtic instrumentalists from Stratford, Ontario, whose members have toured with Loreena McKennitt, Great Big Sea and Ashley MacIssac. Consisting of two couples, who are also neighbours, they fine-tuned their fast-footed music with their masterful arrangements during the pandemic. The foursome chats with Craig about their new CD, recorded with the Stratford Symphony Orchestra, and their musical quest to discover the heart of the Celtic tradition from Ireland and Scotland. Get ready to enjoy some good craic and some foot-stomping tunes.2023-01-1258 min
The Stratford SliceLloyd Robertson: That’s the kind of Stratford it’s beenAs Stratford radio station CJCS approaches its 100th anniversary in 2024, broadcasting legend Lloyd Robertson chats with Craig, also a CJCS alumnus, about his remarkable career and his ongoing love affair with his hometown2022-10-141h 21
The Stratford SliceBill Rowson: Stratford Symphony: Small Town Orchestra with Big AmbitionAs the Stratford Symphony launches its 18th season with its first in-person concert series since 2019, Craig chats with Bill Rowson, the SSO’s music director and principal conductor about the orchestra and how it’s attracting attention well beyond Stratford.2022-10-051h 01
The Stratford SliceEleanor Kane: Igniting the Culinary RevolutionWhen Eleanor Kane decided to escape Montreal in the late 1970s for the relative peace and tranquility of Stratford, little did she realize that her tea shop would soon lead to a transformation of the restaurant scene, not only in Stratford but across Canada and beyond. She sits down with Craig to discuss how the Stratford Chefs School came to life.
https://stratfordchef.com/2022-09-0849 min
The Stratford SliceThrough the Lens of Fred Gonder‘Never judge a book by its cover’ as the saying goes, is an apt reminder when you encounter Fred Gonder. The retired graphic artist and advertising executive who once designed for Volkswagen and Audi is well-known in Stratford as a prolific and talented photographer who finds freedom thanks to his mobility scooter. Fred sits down with Craig to discuss ‘perceptions’ attributed to those with disabilities and how he overcame his personal health challenges to open a new chapter of his life in Stratford.2022-09-0829 min
The Stratford SliceRick Whelan: You’re a Good Man, Charlie BrownRick Whelan is an award-winning playwright, journalist and screenwriter. He began his professional life as an actor, appearing as Charlie Brown in the U.S. national company of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and lured to Canada by his wife Cathy, who played Lucy in the touring production. He has worked with such luminaries as Maggie Smith, Brian Bedford, Jean Stapleton and Walter Pidgeon and spent four seasons as a member of the acting company at the Stratford Festival. His plays have been produced in theatres all across the U.S. and Canada, including at Stratford, the Ba...2022-09-0849 min
The Stratford SliceThe Inside Scoop: Stories from the Cutting Room FloorCraig Thompson, host of The Stratford Slice, turns the microphone on himself as he reflects upon his career as a writer, director and producer in the Canadian and international film and television production industry. With the assistance of collaborator Rick Whelan, Craig shares stories of his early days in his hometown of Stratford and his subsequent career as a journalist and foreign correspondent covering important events such as the conflict in Northern Ireland and the end of the Cold War. He discusses with Rick his 40+ year career working with some of the world’s best-known personalities and how he ad...2022-09-081h 25