Civilizations around the world have observed and celebrated the Summer Solstice in the month of June for thousand of years, and most are celebrated on June 21^st. This is officially the first day of summer, where here, in the Northern Hemisphere, the daytime hours are at a maximum and night time hours are at a minimum. Because the earth is rotating around the sun with its North Pole pointing toward the North Star, during half the year, we experience more exposure to the sun, and while we are warming up, our Australian friends are experiencing the first day of winter.

"Solstice" is derived from two Latin words: "sol" meaning sun, and "sistere," to cause to stand still. This is because, as the summer solstice approaches, the noonday sun rises higher and higher in the sky on each successive day. On the day of the solstice, it rises an imperceptible amount, compared to the day before. In this sense, it "stands still." 

Once again we are celebrating at the Boulevard Club on Toronto’s waterfront. Our Cellar-master, John Macdonald, has picked out the wine, the Club’s Executive Chef has lined up a delightful dinner. As always, we meet at 6:30 outside on the deck overlooking Lake Ontario, for bubbly and hors d’oeuvres , then we move inside in the Solarium for a full four course dinner with wines. This celebration always sells out very quickly, so book early.

You can register online at http://2010solstice.eventbrite.com  or mail in the registration form.

Summer Solstice Dinner Menu

Chef’s Choice Appetizers on the Deck

First

A Composed Salad of Sliced Ontario Beets and Goat’s Cheese, dressed with

Toasted Hazelnuts

Second

Early Summer Pea Risotto with Thyme & Parmesan Cheese

Third

Herb Crusted Rack of Australian Lamb in a Shiraz jus, with Smashed Garlic Potatoes and a Medley of Summer Vegetables

Dessert

Vanilla Crème Brule with Fresh Berries

Coffee and Tea