The upcoming local band Forgery will be the opening act for April Wine at Lobsterfest on June 17.

The group of five started off with just three members in 2003 and have put two albums out since then.

The members are Mike Ulias, lead singer and bass guitarist; Kelly Klein, lead guitarist; Ryan Ulias on the drums, Patrick Nind at the keyboard and Christopher Frieson on rhythm guitars.

The band's name came from a song on their first album titled after it and represents their view on the music industry, as now, more than ever, they're performers as opposed to actual artists who write and play their own music.

The band's style is a new version of classic and new rock.

The guys have been quite busy in the last two years performing at over 80 shows and releasing a second album, The F Word.

Putting this CD together in a studio was managed through a Rock 95.7 Local and Loud contest where they were named as the top band in Central Ontario.

They earned regular rotation on the station because fans sent in an overwhelming amount of requests to hear them.

The group has also just finished recording a single for the Sony/BMG record label.

Forgery will be playing a set lasting from 45 to 60 minutes starting at 9 p.m. at this year's Lobsterfest, which will be held at the Tony Rose Arena.

Mike Ulias said this will be a good opportunity for their family, friends and people who don't nor

mally get to see the

band perform to come out and see them.

He said he hopes there's a good turnout this year and that the band is exposed to new people.

Mr. Ulias added the group is a hard working band that's focused on good song writing and performing energetic, live shows.

Forgery has opened for April Wine several times already and enjoys their music as they "really rock out," said Mr. Ulias.

Their website, www. forgerymusic.com, is currently under construction, but in the meantime you can visit their official fan site at www.myspace. com/forgeryofficial

The Lobsterfest dinner starts at 4 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m. and tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for kids.

Tickets to the entertainment are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

You can purchase tickets from Davenport Automotive, BookLore, Brian's Fuel, Dufferin Veterinary Hospital and Mailboxes Etc.

Now in its 27th year, the Lions Club Lobsterfest is being revitalized to keep area residents' interest peaked and their bellies craving the infamous lobster dinner.

Until this year, Lobsterfest has been held in July, but many people have been away from the area that month for vacation. So in an attempt to raise the number of participants the Lions Club moved the date of the event up.

Club member Doug Schilds said it "seemed to be a challenge to get people to buy tickets because there's so much going on. Years ago, before Orangeville doubled in size, everyone knew everyone."

You will have the choice of a steak or lobster dinner for $25 and a kid's meal will cost $5.

If you would like the dinner but don't think you could make it to the arena the Lions Club is offering delivery, mainly for seniors.

To use this service you can call 942-2053 from June 12 to 15 to place an order.

"All funds raised go right back to the community," Mr. Schilds noted.

This is one of the major fundraising events for the club.

Their other one is the Home and Garden Show.

The lobsters will be flown in the day before the occasion and cooked on site.

Tickets are available at Davenport Automotive, BookLore, Brian's Fuel, Dufferin Veterinary Hospital and Mailboxes Etc.

All this information is on the Lions website, www.orangevillelions.org