GRAPEVINE NEWSLETTER – Sunday, October 25 – Saturday, October 31 , 2026
99.3 County FM is dedicated to keeping you informed about our programming.
To this end, we are sharing with you highlights of the next week on Sunday’s The County Writes…The County Reads and Monday to Friday Grapevine (noon hour & repeat 6:00 p.m.) plus any other unique programming specials.
This newsletter is sent once per week. If you prefer not to know what’s happening on Grapevine, please inform us by emailing reception@993countyfm.ca.
Sunday, October 25, 2026
THE COUNTY WRITES….THE COUNTY READS
12th anniversary show! Terry Fallis was the first author to appear on The County Writes…The County Reads with his fourth novel No Relation. He returns to the show with his eleventh novel, An End in Itself that imagines a world where literature rules—and one humble writer discovers that success can be the strangest fiction of all. Excerpts from Show #1, October 26, 2014: Alan Gratias was the first story teller and his tale of Harry and Henry remains a classic. John Mather and Deb Simpson read the first pages of books which were available for book clubs through the library.
Monday, October 26, 2026
TOPICAL ISSUES & CURRENT EVENTS
Dr. Dawn Bowdish, Executive Director of the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, discusses the early arrival of flu season, available vaccines for flu, covid and rsv, high risk groups and prevention.
Michele Lintern-Mole and Philip Knox of www.atcaudiopodcasts.com describe discovering An Untitled Play by renowned poet Al Purdy, adapting it for radio, and upcoming casting call on Oct. 28 & 30.
Craig Foster, County FM’s news director reflects on the municipal election campaign and previews the station’s coverage of election results Monday, Oct. 26.
Tuesday, October 27, 2026
OCCUPATIONS OF INTEREST — Helicopter Pilot What does it take to become a helicopter pilot, and what’s involved in flying one of these remarkable aircraft? We’re joined by Steve Toews, Managing Director of eXigo Aviation International, whose career has taken him into a wide variety of flying operations. We’ll explore how helicopter training and technology have evolved, what’s involved in flying across international borders, how pilots assess unfamiliar landing sites, and what kinds of things can go wrong. From the challenges of weather to the responsibilities of carrying passengers, Steve offers us a fascinating look into a profession most of us know very little about.
(Interviewer: Suzanne)
COUNTY DOG WITH TASHA
What comes after sit, stay, and come? In this month’s County Dog, trainer Tasha Shaw-Verbic joins us to explore taking dog training beyond the basics. We’ll talk about the possibilities, the commitment involved and how to find a challenge that both you and your dog enjoy. Plus, could the skills you develop together carry over into other parts of your life?
(Interviewer: Suzanne)
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
COUNTY COOKS
With the frost’s arrival in the County, it is time to dig under the earth for flavour and nutrition. And oh what delights we find! Chef Chris Byrne stops by and brings the funky beets, an underutilized root that is so versatile. Tune in for all things beets.
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS
Pearl Hucul speaks with Katy McIntyre, owner of Idyll Books in Bloomfield where you can find a hand picked selection of new and pre-loved books by your favourite, popular, and local authors.
THE COUNTY, NATURALLY
Photo: Cbaile19
Southern Ontario is ground zero for invasive alien species, whether it’s a plant (dog-strangling vine), an insect (emerald ash borer) or an animal (grass carp). That’s because invasive species can arrive by plane, vehicle or water. The trick is identifying them early and eradicating them fast. Spotted knapweed has now been seen in the County and Pamela Stagg will talk about it with Vicki Simcovic of the Invasive Plant Species Council.
Thursday, October 29, 2026
COUNTY GROWS
Cheryl McLellan interviews local horticulturalists, farmers, and gardeners to learn more about the care and variety of the many green growing things in our county.
COUNTY PROFILE
Danielle Crittenden and Friend! Danielle shares the details of the life of a journalist traveling around the world with great love and curiosity, in a conversation with Renay Weissman-Stanners.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Barbara Sweet and Liz Zylstra talk about the upcoming Repair Cafe to be held on Nov 7 at the Picton Branch Library, organized by Feral Folc.
Friday, October 30, 2026
ARTSCENE
This week we step inside the world of Next to Normal, the powerful, award-winning rock musical being brought to the stage by Prince Edward County’s Shatterbox Theatre. Join Cheryl Singer as she chats with director Julie Lane and assistant director Robin Snip about the emotional heart of the show, the challenges of bringing this complex story to life, and the magic of community theatre. Catch the conversation on Artscene!
SPORTS ROUNDUP
The Prince Edward County Sports Hall of Fame showcases memorable athletes and events.
PET REPORT
Dave Wheatley reports on lost and found cats as well as profiling the ones looking for a forever home.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
It’s the first ever I Know That Voice, “Halloween Spooktacular!” On this very special episode, host Gage Broderick will highlight some of the most iconic voices that stick with us through the most haunted season of the year. From Bela Lugosi to Vincent Price, see if your favorites end up on the list!
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS Oct 25-31
Election Coverage on the 99.3 CountyFM Archive
Use the search button at our website, to hear the mayor’s debate or to listen to profiles on the councilors (search by your ward such as “Ward 5” or by the name of the candidate). Our Newsteam bring you all the action Monday night with live reports! The Municipal election is Monday, October 26, 2026, if you have voted – great, if not – please get out and vote.
Casting Call “An Untitled Play by Al Purdy” Oct 28 & 30
Wednesday Oct 28th 6:30pm and Friday Oct 30th 6:30-8:30pm Bethany Christian Reform Church, 158 Bloomfield (west door – basement). A radio adaptation by Phil Knox. Roles for all ages. Contact philipaknox@gmail.com
14th Annual Firelight Lantern Festival Nov 6 & 7
The Department of Illumination returns with one of our most cherished community events. The Department of Illumination lights up the night with The Firelight Lantern Festival including two magical evenings of arts and music at the Crystal Palace in Picton and of course the wonderful Festive Parade (gather at Benson Park Nov 7 at 6pm). Media sponsor 99.3 CountyFM. Learn more
Accessibility Minded Information Session Nov 16
Calling all county business owners and community leaders. Learn how accessibility minded sponsorship can drive your bottom line and create a welcoming environment for all. Attend the Accessibility Minded information session.November 16th 8:30 – 10:30am at St. Andrew Anglican Church in Wellington. Register by November 9th www.accessibilityminded.com Media sponsor 99.3 CountyFM.
Shatterbox Theatre “Next to Normal” at The Cape Nov 12-21, CountyFM presents
Winner of 3 Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Next to Normal is a powerful and deeply moving contemporary musical that explores family, mental health, love, loss, and resilience. Recommended for 14+, there is also a content advisory. Learn more.
