LEFT OF CENTER (May 8, 2010)

by Joshua Maloni

Carmelo's celebrates 30th anniversary with farm-to-table presentations

Carmelo's was the culinary epicenter of Lewiston on Monday, as the fine dining restaurant hosted native farmers, wineries and a quartet of chefs preparing farm-to-table dishes. The event was a celebration, both of Carmelo's 30th anniversary and the local produce used within the eatery.  

"We're planting seeds here," said chef and restaurant owner Carmelo Raimondi. He said he's adopted a mission statement for his restaurant, which is, "Our philosophy is to source the best ingredients from the Niagara Region and surrounding area. Carmelo's is a showcase for farmers and the food that they raise and grow.  When developing our menu, we believe that eating the freshest seasonal ingredients heightens your awareness of the bounty our region offers and our remarkable four-season weather. It is always an adventure, and we hope that you will enjoy the taste sensations of this season, while looking forward to the next."

Guests at the party sampled hors d'oeuvres and wines as they watched live cooking demonstrations.

Carmelo's is located at 425 Center St.

Local music legends share Rapids Theatre stage

Finally, Sinatra and Elvis are teaming up.

On Saturday, May 15, the Rapids Theatre presents a "Legend to Legend" show featuring Jack Civiletto (singing Sinatra) and Terry Buchwald (playing Elvis). If that's not enough, the 18-piece Pyramid Band will back the two local music icons.

Both singers are familiar entertainers in the River Region. Civiletto, a gifted crooner, performs each Tuesday at Water Street Landing, and Buchwald, every bit a trained stage performer, is an annual headliner at the Lewiston Kiwanis Peach Festival.

Tickets are available pre-sale via Ticketmaster outlets, and at the door on the night of the show.

The concert begins at 8:30 p.m. The Rapids Theatre is located at 1711 Main St., Niagara Falls. For more information, visit rapidstheatre.com.

Garden Club wins award, prepares for festival

Members of the Lewiston Garden Club gathered Tuesday at the home of Barbara Carter to make plans for GardenFest. The annual festival is 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, June 26-27.

On April 15, the club took first place in the Federated Garden Clubs of New York State Inc. District VIII competition. The citation/"white rosette" award is given for an outstanding project established for three or more years, and representative of the aims and purposes of the Federated Garden Clubs.