December 2018 by The Walleye Magazine

FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 9 No. 12 MUSIC DECEMBER FOOD 2018 CULTURE thewalleye.ca

Holiday Gift Guide Local Picks for Everyone on Your List

LOCAL FARE TAKES FLIGHT 24

NOT YOUR USUAL BAZAAR 42

THE VAULT ON RED RIVER 65

ZACK BRIGHT READIES NEW ALBUM 89

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Contents

walleye the

FEATURES

■ 8

Thunder Bay’s arts & culture alternative

Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Editor Adrian Lysenko adrian@thewalleye.ca Assistant Editor Rebekah Skochinski Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Bonnie Schiedel

Marketing & Sales Manager Martina Benvegnu sales@thewalleye.ca Photographers Patrick Chondon, Bill Gross, Scott Hobbs, Chad Kirvan, Dave Koski, Kay Lee, Shannon Lepere, Marty Mascarin, Darren McChristie, Laura Paxton Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D., Dave Koski, R.G.D. production@thewalleye.ca

314 Bay Street Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1S1

■ 31 ■ 33

Holiday Movies It’s Almost Christmas and I’m Singing A Christmas Carol

■ 34 Carol Lake/Night Scene ■ 37 Blast Wares ■ 38 21 Pillows ■ 40 A True Community Event ■ 42 Not Your Usual Bazaar ■ 43 Stitch by Stitch ■ 45 Revealing the Magic OUTDOOR

■ 46 That’s Snow Business CITYSCENE

■ 48 Embark on a New Ritual ■ 51 Christmas is in the Air ■ 53 Random Knits of Kindness ■ 55 A Taste of France ■ 57 Government-Issued Ontario

■ 58 What’s Inside... a

Chocolatier’s Kitchen? ■ 60 The Bookshelf ■ 63 Spread the Warmth ■ 65 The Vault on Red River ■ 67 NuWave School of Hair Design ■ 68 Six Questions with Mayor Mauro ■ 71 The Westfort Renaissance is Coming ■ 72 Indigenous Knowledge Centres

MUSIC

■ 74 Metal with a Tinge ■ 77 ■ 79 ■ 80 ■ 83 ■ 84 ■ 86 ■ 88 ■ 89

of Unorthodoxy The Nutcracker Brandon Santini Bob Dylan Burial Etiquette The Record Box Unique Traditions Mélissa Biroun Zack Bright Readies New Album

ARCHITECTURE

■ 92 Trinity United Church HEALTH

■ 94 Healthy Holiday Eating Tips GREEN

■ 97 Sensible Shopping WEATHER

■ 102 Ice Formations ■ 17 Drink of the Month ■ 62 This is Thunder Bay ■ 90 Off the Wall Reviews ■ 98 Tbaytel December EVENTS ■ 100 Music EVENTS ■ 101 LU Radio's Monthly Top 20 ■ 104 The Wall ■ 105 The Beat ■ 106 The Eye

SILVANA CIDDIO

S R, R®

Telephone (807) 344-3366 Fax (807) 623-5122

Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday

E-mail: info@thewalleye.ca

TheWalleye.ca

■ 28 Unconventional

THE ARTS

Superior Outdoors Inc.

■ 16 Le Plat de Résistance ■ 19 Chocolate Beers ■ 20 Santé From Santa! ■ 23 Everything is Golden ■ 24 Local Fare Takes Flight ■ 26 Welcome to the FILM&THEATRE

The Walleye is a free monthly publication distributed on racks throughout Thunder Bay and region.

Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.

FOOD

Neighbourhood

Ad Designers Dave Koski Miranda van den Berg Paige Guzzell

Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission is strictly forbidden. Views expressed herein are those of the author exclusively.

CoverStory: Holiday Gift Guide ■ 8 Trendsetter ■ 9 Foodie ■ 10 The Music Lover ■ 11 Outdoors Enthusiast ■ 12 Ecoholic ■ 13 Pet Lover ■ 14 Curator ■ 15 The Entertainer

807.355.3262 SilvanaC@royallepage.ca www.silvanaciddio.ca

AgentSilvanaC Silvana Ciddio Royal LePage Lannon Realty

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From Our Instagram feed

The Christmas Syndrome

rowing up, I was lucky enough to have two Christmases. We would open presents on December 25, but then on January 7 or 9 we would celebrate Ukrainian Christmas with our extended family. Most Ukrainians observe the holiday, usually on January 7 following the Julian calendar. Needless to say, as a kid this was awesome. It meant more presents, and we did our shopping for Ukrainian Christmas on Boxing Day to hit up sales. Looking back I guess it helped quash “the Christmas Syndrome”: when you are looking forward to the holiday so much that the actual event seems short and dull in comparison. With the passing of various family members and moving away from Toronto early in my youth, I don’t celebrate Ukrainian Christmas as often anymore. But with helping to plan the Holiday Gift Guide it still feels like I get to celebrate two Christmases: one in November once this issue goes to print and then again on December 25. Like Santa’s elves, we’ve been busy putting together gift ideas from local businesses for socialites, foodies, pet lovers, and everyone in between for our annual Holiday

The Walleye

Gift Guide. Plus, we compiled a list of books from local authors as well as albums from local musicians, and if you’re not in the “spirit” yet, sommelier Jeannie Dubois provides some suggestions as well. As part of our holiday theme, Kyle Poluyko gets a sneak peek of the Minnesota Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker featuring the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, Deanne Gagnon takes a trip to Sandpiper Christmas Tree Farm, and Chef Rachel Globensky serves up a delicious tourtière recipe. So don’t fall victim to Christmas Syndrome. Hopefully, you don’t experience the warmth and joy of the holidays just on the 25th, but all month long. As always, we owe our success to the support of our past and present advertisers and our team of dedicated and talented contributors. And a special thanks to our readers, who support the individuals, organizations, and businesses featured in the magazine. Happy holidays and best wishes for a wonderful New Year! - Adrian Lysenko

Featured Contributor Paula Marsh Although originally from Thunder Bay, Paula has lived most of her life in Murillo. When she’s not writing music stories and concert reviews for The Walleye, Paula is an early childhood educator and works with preschool children. She loves the outdoors, especially being around lakes where she can swim, kayak, hike, and explore. Having recently taken up photography, she admits to taking an unhealthy amount of pictures of sunsets and pets. You can read Paula’s preview of the Celtic Family Christmas tour on page 86.

On the Cover Holiday Gift Guide By Darren McChristie

The Walleye

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867 Tungsten Street • 345-2888 halfwaymotorsmazda.com ▼0% APR Purchase Financing is available on select new 2018 Mazda models. Terms vary by model. Representative agreement using offered pricing of $33,583 for the new 2018 CX-5 GS 6AT AWD (NXSN88AA00) with a financed amount of $33,660, the cost of borrowing for a 36-month term is $0, monthly payment is $935, total finance obligation is $33,660. Offer includes freight and P.D.E. of $1,895, $10 OMVIC fee, $17.75 Tire Stewardship Fee, $100 Air Conditioning charge and $59.38 PPSA. Offer excludes HST. ▲Winter Tire Credit offer (value up to $750) available on in-stock 2018 and 2019 Mazda models between November 1, 2018 – January 2, 2019. Wheels and installation extra. †Finance Pricing for new 2018 Mazda3 SE 6AT (D4ZK88AA00)/2019 CX-3 GS AWD (HXSK89AA00)/2018 CX-5 GS AWD (NXSN88AA00)/2018 CX-9 GS AWD (QXSM88AA00) is $22,779/$26,939/$33,644/$40,844 financed at 0%/2.99%/3.00%/2.75% over 72/84/84/84 months equals weekly payments of $69/$79/$99/$119 with $1,255/$995/$1,145/$1,455 down payment, cost of borrowing is $0/$2,817/$3,541/$3,923 with a total obligation of $22,779/$29,757/$37,185/$44,768. As shown, 2018 Mazda3 GT (D4TL68AA00)/2019 CX3 GT (HXTK89AA00)/2018 CX-5 GT (NXTN88AA00)/2018 CX-9 GT (QXTM88AA00) is $25,504/$32,639/$37,244/$49,244 financed at 0%/2.99%/3.00%/2.75% over 72/84/84/84 months equals weekly payments of $78/$96/$110/$144 with $1,255/$995/$1,145/$1,455 down payment, cost of borrowing is $0/$3,436/$3,933/$4,760 with a total obligation of $25,504/$36,075/$41,178/$54,004. Finance payments include freight and P.D.E.. First monthly payment is due at finance inception. Offers exclude HST. Special order may be required. Visit mazda.ca or see your dealer for complete details. *To learn more about the Mazda Unlimited Warranty, go to mazdaunlimited.ca.

The Walleye

TheTOPFive

1 A Christmas Carol December 6–22 Magnus Theatre

December 7

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Our Thunder Bay Community Auditorium will be transformed into a veritable wonderland this December with amazing visuals, acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks, and plenty of holiday cheer. Cirque Musica Holiday’s Wonderland is an all-new touring concert experience featuring a stellar Cirque Musica cast paired with your favourite holiday songs performed by a live symphony orchestra. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this special event that combines the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers. You’ll be on the edge of your seat! Tickets range from $59 to $79 and the show starts at 7:30 pm. tbca.com

Music & 4 Snowball Ski Festival December 14 & 15

3 Christmas Bizarre Bazaar

December 8 & 9

Baggage Building Arts Centre There is nothing typical about the Christmas Bizarre Bazaar. As the organizer likes to say, it’s cool shit for sale by awesome people. Now in its fifth year, this two-day event will feature over two dozen creators. You’ll find unique and creative gifts from comics to furniture, metalwork to painting, photography to food, books to woodworking and everything else in between. Each day is different! Enjoy some Rose N Crantz coffee and treats while you explore, as well as entertainment by Dee Marie and the Compelling Characters. The price of admission? Free, as long as you dance the dance of happiness as you walk in. Runs from 10 am to 4 pm both days. merkasylum@gmail.com

Christian Chapman

Cirque Musica 2 Holiday’s Wonderland

Mario Crudo

Peace Out

NOSM Student Holiday

5 Charity Concert

Lutsen

December 16

Calling all snow-loving music festival fanatics! Lutsen Mountains’ most anticipated music event of the year is making its triumphant return. As part of the Wookiefoot 20th Anniversary Tour, this weekend ski and music party (two of our favourite things) is back for two nights of music, with a special afternoon set at the mountaintop Summit Chalet, plus live music and jam sessions. Enjoy all the best that Mother Nature offers in the winter, including the camaraderie of skiing, snowboarding, and general winter merrymaking. Featuring music by Wookiefoot, Jon Wayne and the Pain, and Smokin’ Joe. Packages include lift/ lodge and concert, or concert only. Hit up the website for the full lineup.

Each year, the students at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine get in touch with their creative side to help the community by holding a holiday concert. Their concert promises to be a lovely evening featuring a variety of musical talents including piano, singing, saxophone, and mandolin performed by students and faculty associated with NOSM. In addition to the musical entertainment there will be a raffle for a grand prize and a half-time coffee and bake sale by donation. You can purchase advance tickets for just $10 from select locations, or at the door for $12. All proceeds will be donated to Our Kids Count. Follow their event page on Facebook for more information. The concert starts at 7 pm so get there early for the best seats!

lutsen.com

Urban Abbey

nosm.ca

The Walleye Walleye

Maria Maria Photography

magnustheatre.com

Scott Hobbs

Capture the spirit of the season by taking in a traditional holiday theatrical treat. Adapted by northern playwright Michael Shepherd, this stage version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is a classic tale that follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey through his life along with a few ghostly guides: The Ghost of Christmases Past, The Ghost of Christmas Present, and The Ghost of Christmases Yet to Come. It’s a story of redemption, of charity, and of second chances—which is to say, it’s just the sort of spine tingling and heartwarming adventure to cheer up even the staunchest curmudgeon. Contact the Magnus Theatre box office for tickets. There’s a pay-what-you-can performance December 16.

7 1

CoverStory

Holiday Gift Guide Trendsetter

here is so much merriment and good cheer to be had this time of year, and we want to make sure you can enjoy all of it without stressing about what to buy for whom. Which is why we’ve been as busy as Santa’s elves over here at The Walleye putting together our annual Holiday Gift Guide. We’ve made a list and checked it twice—from thoughtful and practical to playful and fun, there’s something on this list for everyone.

trend-set-ter a person who leads the way in fashion or ideas By Rebekah Skochinski 1

Blue Q Socks

We’re not exactly sure how receiving socks as gifts earned such a bad rap, because socks are the best—especially these cheeky ones from Blue Q. Woven with luxurious combed cotton for softness, nylon for strength, and spandex for long-lasting fun, they come in a variety of sassy options for both ladies and gents. Awkward social moment at a Christmas party? Just wiggle your piggies. These socks were made for talking. Bloomers and the Brownhouse $15 and $16 2

Les Georgettes Bracelet

Made in France, these bracelets offer the finest in jewelry and leather craftsmanship to fit every mood, style, and occasion. With interchangeable leather double-sided inserts, the bracelets can be worn with them in, or without. Available in gold, silver, and rose gold finishes. Choose from one of the ready-made creations or style your own unique piece for that certain special someone. Exquisite Gold & Gems Starting at $79

Herschel Supply Co. Travel Amenity Kit 3

Everyone wants to be comfortable when they’re travelling, and with this travel kit not only will you be in-flight ready, you’ll be soaring in style. Amenities include soft foam ear plugs, a sleeping mask with stretch fit, slippers with foam padding and synthetic suede outsole, an inflatable neck pillow (so you won’t have to wear it while traipsing through the airport!) and an elegant pouch with a waterproof zipper to store it all. Mars Clothing $35 4

11/17 Hoodie

The only thing we dislike about this whole athleisure fashion trend is that it didn’t start sooner, because living in sweats = living the dream. Help to make holiday dreams come true with one of these super soft cotton hoodies. We dig the Northern Exposure vibes of the design, which is hand-screened by local artist Dan DePeuter. It’s their most popular print and our personal fave. One for them and one for you! Wintering House Designs $50

The Walleye

Plaid Dress

Do you have a lady on your list who is a bit playful and punk? If so, she’ll adore this short-sleeve button down plaid dress with its incredibly flattering A-line silhouette, invisible side zipper, and pockets. Can be dressed up with heels or dressed down with sneakers or boots. Also comes in red. Creation Body Piercing $76 6

Mittens

We’re smitten with these mittens. Made from wool and lined with felt, they come with a stitched-on maple leaf message of love to the city we call home. A thoughtful and practical gift for family members to give students and friends who have moved away and still want to carry a little piece of Thunder Bay with them wherever they go. Love is love.

The Loop $24.95 7 Saxx Blacksheep Long Johns

The go-to gift for the guy in your life is a pair of relaxed fit long johns from Saxx Underwear. With moisture wicking stretch merino wool (95%) and a splash of spandex (5%) they are antimicrobial and anti-odour and come with a patented ballpark pouch (woo hoo!). Perfect under ski pants, for an après-ski pint, or for lounging around the house, if we’re being completely honest.

JB Evans $100 8

Laurentian Chief Moccasins

Handmade in Canada, these Laurentian Chief moccasins by Eugene Cloutier feature high-quality suede and luxurious rabbit fur trim. We like the hand-beaded Thunderbird design on the vamp, which is a lovely homage to the legendary Thunderbirds that lived and nested in the sacred rock of Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay). The slippers are fleece lined throughout the entire footbed for warmth, and have two layers of suede on the sole for comfort. Available in men’s and women’s sizes. Authentique $74.99 and $94.99

CoverStory

Foodie

foo-die a person with a particular interest in food; a gourmet By Kat Lyzun

Beer Fudge

Chocolate Cow and Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. have teamed up to create a gorgeous golden ale fudge and oatmeal stout chocolate fudge. Available at the SGBC brewery, Chocolate Cow’s booth at the Thunder Bay Country Market, and at the Chocolate Cow shop in Slate River.

Chocolate Cow and Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. $6.50 2 Shumka Dust Christmas Gift Pack 6

Spread some holiday cheer with a sprinkling of culinary fairy dust! This spicy gift pack includes a shaker of locally made Shumka Dust (an allpurpose spice), a bottle of Superior Steak Spice and a pouch of Moonlite Bay Dredge that’s perfect for frying up a fresh ice-fishing catch. Shumka Dust $15

Sometimes you want a cocktail, but you also want to wrap your hands around a warm mug. The Cosmopolitan Tea Party pack gives you the best of both worlds! Perfect for the person on your list who enjoys curling up with tea and a good book. Each gift pack includes seven tea blends, filter bags for brewing, and a cocktail recipe guide curated by local bartender Kal Merkley.

2019 GELA

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Kitchen Nook $48-68 6

Food and Drink Tour

A great gift idea for couples or a group of friends. Seek Adventure & Tours offers walking food tours and guided outdoor experiences throughout the city. Ones to try: the Superior Happy Hour(s) Tour in the Waterfront District, or the Signature Sip + Savour in the Bay and Algoma District. Eat, drink, and enjoy good company in cozy, fun atmospheres. Seek Adventure & Tours 7 2019 Gelato Club Membership

It’s the gift that keeps giving all year long: members of the Prime Gelato Club get 12 pints of to-diefor creamy goodness and exclusive access to a new members-only flavour each month. A perfect gift for a good friend or partner (or anyone else who might share their gelato with you). Also comes with a sweet cooler bag. Prime Gelato $99.99

$25

Handcrafted Casserole Baker 8

Cutting Board

A great gift for the master chef or the master host. The simple beauty (and practicality) of these cutting boards, made from local birch, make them ideal for chopping veggies or putting together an epic charcuterie board. Craftsman Dave Radley takes custom orders through his website, radleyswoodworking.com. Radley’s Woodworking $55

VIS IT OUR PRIME GEL SCO OP SHO P ATO, 200 RED RIVE R ROA

A kitchen essential, this iron skillet is the best tool to sear, sauté, bake, broil, or braise on the stove, in the oven, or over a campfire. A good skillet will last for decades, and this one is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil for a natural, easy-release finish that gets better with use. A perfect gift for the newbie foodie or new homeowner.

International House of Tea

4 4

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

$42–$82 per person

3 Cosmopolitan Tea Party Pack

This beautiful piece is hand-carved and sculpted by local artisan Noël Keag. It’s both oven and dishwasher safe, and the thicker bottom allows the dish to retain heat longer from oven to table.The birch design is a testimony to northern Ontario and the beauty that surrounds our community. Stone Circle Pottery $225-275

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1 2018-11-1

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CoverStory

The Music Lover

mu-sic lo-ver a person who believes that music makes the world go ‘round; a toe-tapper

By Justin Allec 1 The Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer Tickets

Well outside of the usual confines of folk, the eclectic, electric blues of B.C. duo The Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer are once again coming to Thunder Bay (January 19 at Port Arthur Polish Hall). Still rolling strong on the release of 2017’s Apocalipstick, Shawn Hall and Matthew Rogers are now blues veterans in their own right, with some great songs to feature during what is sure to be an innovative and impressively loud live spectacle. Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society $30 2

VHS – A Very Merry VHS Xmas

A slash-happy alternative to your usual Christmas carols from locals VHS. As usual, Mike Hochins and co. use their reverence for 80s horror Christmas classics to deliver some seriously festive metal. New holiday favorites such as “Jingle Holocaust” and “Don’t Feed after Midnight” are perfect for that person who’s been force-fed a steady diet of Christmas standards for the last two months. vhshorror.bandcamp.com $5 3

Band T-shirt

Find the perfect band T-shirt for that special punk or metalhead in your life at High Tide. Their newly expanded merch section has shirts (and also patches, pins, and vinyl!) that span generations of the best bands from the aggressive underground. Whether it’s classic hardcore like Sick of it All or brand new death metal like Scorched, High Tide will have a shirt that’s just perfect. Usually in black, too. High Tide Tattoo Parlour $30 4 Mahalo MR1-GN Soprano Ukulele with Bag

Start with an electric green that’ll shine in the yuletide lights, then follow that with some plinking and strumming that’ll last well into the new year. This ukulele isn’t a toy, as the best-selling Mahalo brand features durable wood construction and extended bridges to project a balanced bass sound. Making music doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should always be a lot of fun for that aspiring musician in your life. Backstage Music $46.99

6 5

Bose SoundLink Headphones

A good set of headphones should be clear and comfortable, and Bose’s SoundLink deliver in a wireless package. A Bluetooth connection allows the wearer to wander around the house without worrying about cords, and the 15-hour rechargeable battery will last whole discographies. That special someone can also easily switch between music and calls, so there’s no need to miss the outside world— unless they want to. The Power Centre

$210 6

Vinyl

Of course any time is a great time to kick back with a new record, but there’s something about these cold indoor months that make vinyl’s warm sound especially welcome. New Day’s selection of used and new vinyl is the best in the city and they’re guaranteed to carry something that your favorite music aficionado has been coveting—or even better, something they had no idea existed.

Moon Money Vintage/New Day Records $varies 7

TBSO Select Six Package

Our Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra has revamped itself this year with a new music director and a new series of shows. The Select Six package offers great value for seeing the wide variety of concerts TBSO is offering, as well as the incredible talent of our orchestra. Choose from TBSO’s take on classic rock, their contemporary Northern Lights series, or even some traditional classical pieces performed at Hilldale Lutheran Church.

tbso.ca $265

8 Fender Squier Stratocaster Electric Guitar Pack with Frontman 10G Amp & Gig Bag

The Squier Strat pack is the perfect choice for someone looking to start slinging a sixstring. It has that classic tone and lightweight durability that have made this guitar popular for decades. The Squier Frontman 10G amplifier has an aux input that allows you play along with your favourite songs, as well as a headphone jack for silent practice. There’s even a three-month subscription to Fender Play, to let you learn those songs the easy way. Music World $299

10 The Walleye

CoverStory

Outdoors Enthusiast out·doors en·thu·si·ast a person who lives for outdoor sports and activities and appreciates true wilderness By Michelle McChristie Three-Pack Organic Lip Balm 1

NWO winters bring wind chills and dry air—a combination that amounts to kryptonite for lips. Made from a beeswax and hempseed oil base, Bare Organics’ lip balm goes on smooth, repairs, and moisturizes dry lips (we recommend peppermint). The best part is that it’s handmade in Thunder Bay.

Bare Organics $12 8

2 4

Buff

It’s a neck-warmer, headband, mask, balaclava, scarf, hood, wristband, scrunchie, beanie, and bandana— possibly the most versatile item in an outdoors enthusiast’s arsenal of gear. Buffs are colourful and fun, not to mention lightweight and breathable, designed to keep that special someone warm in the cold and wick moisture away from skin to keep them cool when it’s hot. Fresh Air $24.99 3

Mushroom Picking Set

Here’s the gift your foraging friend didn’t even know they needed—a handy mushroom knife and bag. The knife has a brush on one end and a ruler on the wooden part and the bag has three movable compartments in breathable fabric, a pocket on the side to store the mushroom knife, and an adjustable shoulder strap.

Finnport $49.95 3

Rambler Wine Tumbler

These stylish stainless steel tumblers are perfect for the outdoorsy oenophile on your list. Like all YETI products, the tumblers are engineered for durability. Plus, they are much easier to pack than glass or even plastic and come in a variety of funky colours.

ENO Sub6 Hammock

This ultra-light and packable hammock provides relaxation bliss whether it’s used in the backyard, by the lake, at the campground, or anywhere it can be strung up. Crafted from ripstop nylon, the Sub6 safely supports up to 136 kg (300 lb) and comes with an attached stuff sack. Gear Up for Outdoors $89.99 6

“Trekker” Kelly Kettle

The Kelly Kettle is an Irish innovation that uses a handful of fuel—such as twigs, pine cones, bark, or dry grass— to boil up to 0.6 litres of water in just three to five minutes (no more bulky propane cylinders!). Larger models are available, as well as accessories to turn the base of the kettle into a camp stove. Chaltrek $108 7 Faber North Lander Snowshoe

Give the gift of the backcountry with these light and sturdy snowshoes from Faber, a Canadian company that has been in the biz since 1870. The North Lander is a recreational snowshoe that is known for its simple yet ergonomic design that makes excursions enjoyable, regardless of the snow conditions. Gear Up for Outdoors $139.99–$154.99 8

Nikon Coolpix A900

This versatile and compact camera takes beautiful 20 megapixel photos and ultra high definition videos— even in low light. It also has a super telephoto glass lens and can connect to a compatible smartphone through Bluetooth technology for instant sharing and remote control. Imagetech $469.99

Fresh Air $64.99/pair

The Walleye

CoverStory

Ecoholic

e-co-hol-ic a person who is environmentally conscious By Bonnie Schiedel 1

Dining Kit

Is 2019 the year to kick the oneuse plastic habit? This little green stocking stuffer has a stainless steel spork and two stainless steel straws, plus a teeny straw cleaner. Add a silicon mason jar lid to quaff a favourite beverage and you’re all set for environmentally friendly lunches. EcoSuperior $7.50–$15 2 Colibri Reusable Snack Bags

These zippered cloth snack bags make it easy to tote your bagel, carrot sticks, trail mix, or cookies in style. They’re made in Manitoba with a 100% cotton outer layer in a wide variety of patterns, lined with 100% polyurethane membrane for easy clean up and have lead- and nickelfree zippers certified to meet Health Canada food safety standards. Vitality Natural Food Market $7.99-$8.99 3

Ungalli Baby Onesie

This ethically made, organic cotton onesie is a brand-spanking-new addition to the Ungalli collection. It’s printed with non-toxic, ecofriendly dyes and features an inspiring message for the littlest environmentalists out there. Available in sizes 3–6, 6–12,12–18, and 18–24 month sizes. Pretty freakin’ cute. Ungalli $29 4

Pre-Loved Accessories

Davines Hair Care

This holiday gift pack comes with a full-sized Minu shampoo, Minu conditioner (both for coloured hair) and OI All in One Milk detangler, all made with sustainably sourced, natural ingredients tucked into a snazzy reusable box from an environmentally responsible company. One percent of each purchase goes to towards helping environmental causes. Sustainable is beautiful, baby!

Evoke Salon & Spa $69.50-$79.50 6 SunBlaster Mini Greenhouse

No sunlight? No problem. Give the gift of growing fresh produce in a mini greenhouse that’s a complete starter kit, including a dome, sturdy tray, and light. Add in some packages of seeds for herbs (culinary or otherwise) or salad greens and with any luck you’ll be invited over for dinner.

Bill Martin’s Nurseryland $82.99 7

JOI Candle Light

This is a cool Canadian invention: it converts the heat generated from one tea light candle into electricity that powers eight LED lights. You can use it indoors or out, it’s stainless steel, it’s windproof and one candle provides about four-plus hours of light at an off-grid camp or during a power outage.

Maier Hardware $129.99 8

Sirrus bike

Eco-fashionistas know that some of the best scores are previously owned items that come with a little history. The cashmere scarf is by Lyle & Scott and the vegan leather purse is from Stella & Dot. (And if these items have been snapped up, you can always get a gift certificate so your giftee can shop to their heart’s content.)

This bike is designed for comfy, efficient commuting with a durable but light aluminum frame, hydraulic disk brakes for optimal braking, and a sport saddle seat with plenty of cush for the tush. Available in both men’s and women’s styles (women’s shown).

Déjà Vu Consignment

Fresh Air

$39.99 each

$799

12 The Walleye

CoverStory

Pet Lover

pet lov-er a person whose pet is their BFF

7 6

By Adrian Lysenko 1

Cat Mug by Sagaform

This jumbo-sized mug is the purrfect gift idea for that cat lover on your list. Made of durable porcelain, it features a cat figure in the middle of the cup, which can hold more than 500 ml of coffee, tea, or maybe even some warm milk for their feline companion.

Finnport $14.95 2

Tug A Doug Chew Toy

People say dog owners look like their dogs. So would it be a stretch to say that they share the same politics? Okay probably, but if you know someone who was disheartened with last June’s provincial election results, give them the Doug Ford chew toy and let their pet gnaw out their frustration. The Ontario Premier lookalike is an excellent companion for their canine and will keep it busy for hours.

Bay Meats Butcher Shop $45 6 Canada Pooch Winter Jacket for Dogs

Tugadoug.com $19

Thunder Pet

Dogs in Knits Book

$45-$80

Kitty Pendant

What do you get the knitting dog lover on your Secret Santa list? Well, Dogs in Knits by Judith L. Swartz of course. This book offers a beautiful and unique collection of patterns for sweaters and blankets for dogs. It also includes practical canine styles for all knitting skill levels, including crocheting patterns and instructions on sizing patterns for a perfect fit.

Let that special someone keep their furry feline friend cuddling close to them with this elegant cat pendant. The Kitty Pendant is 10k white gold with a diamond in the collar and comes with a 14 inch, 10k white gold chain.

Olives and Bananas

$139

$22.95

Mini Coat Rack with Dog Paws 4

Like they say at Bay Meats, we all know people who love their pets as much as they love their children, siblings, and parents. So why not offer their four-legged friends a treat that is tasty and safe? Dexter’s Dog Jerky treats were created to fill a need in the pet food market and are made with 100% Canadian beef, without other spices or salt, and using people-safe standards.

Whoever said dogs can’t stay warm in style has clearly not seen the Winter Wilderness Parka by Canada Pooch. Available in a suave red or a debonair black and in a variety of sizes, the classic parka will guarantee to turn some heads and get some tails wagging at the off-leash area.

3 5

5 Dexter’s Dog Jerky Treats Gift Pack

Coat? Check. Booties? Check. Leash? Check. During the winter months, dogs might have as much gear as we do when it comes to facing the colder weather. This adorable mini coat rack with dog paws is an excellent gift idea for someone who’s looking to declutter their mudroom and get their pooch out the door in record time. Rustic Beauty Handcrafted Boutique $35

Exquisite Gold & Gems Inc.

The K-9 Kicksled

This kicksled is an awesome gift for that person on your list who wants a workout for themselves as well as their dog. Manufactured in Quebec, it’s made out of 100% maple wood and sinew. The sled has an integrated brake system for extra security and two Teflon runners. Working best on packed down and well-groomed trails, this sled will have that special someone and their pooch training for the Iditarod in no time. Chaltrek $299

The Walleye

CoverStory

Curator

cu-ra-tor a person with an affinity for art and other unique gifts By Rebekah Skochinski 1

Blackwing Pencils

Notecards

Treat the writer or artist in your inner circle to a set of pencils with exceptional balance, softness, darkness, and sharpness. Standout features include elegant flat ferrules and replaceable erasers. Don’t just take our word for it though, Blackwings have a cult following, including the likes of John Steinbeck and Chuck Jones, since they were introduced in the 1930s. Quality, tradition, and panache.

These notecards are designed and printed by hand by Duluth printmaker Rick Allen, who uses an age-old printing technique to press the images into paper. We love this “Winter Homecoming” scene with its swirling ski tracks, starlit sky, and puffs of smoke curling up out of a log cabin chimney, and we think you know someone who might, too. Printed on heavy stock with recycled content and blank on the inside.

Hygge Loft

Sivertson Gallery, Grand Marais, MN

$34/set of 12

USD$16.95/pack of ten

Paint and Brushes

Plant the seed of creativity with a set of Golden Artist Colors paints and Protégé brushes for your favourite Picasso. Golden acrylic paints are known for their buttery smooth consistency and pure pigments, and Protégé brushes are skillfully handcrafted with white hog bristle hair, making them ideal for mixing, blending, and providing exceptional brush stroke definition. The sky’s the limit! Painted Turtle Art Shop $135.25 3

Stained Glass Robin

Bring some of the outdoors inside with a beautiful art glass piece from Kim Cunningham Custom Stained Glass. A local artist based in Murillo, Cunningham’s work is as whimsical as it is colourful. She has an eye-catching variety of stained glass mini panels, suncatchers, and ornaments available at Fireweed for you to choose from, but we couldn’t resist singling out this adorable robin. Fireweed Crafts $15 4

Tourism Prints

We have so many incredible landmarks where we live and these 18x24-inch prints designed by Terry Bogard would make a great addition to someone’s collection whether they live near or far. Bogard, an artist who specializes in vintage-style tourism prints, has captured some iconic Thunder Bay sights, including Kakabeka Falls, Mount McKay, Ouimet Canyon, and a view of the Sleeping Giant as well as one from the top of its peak. Sleeping Giant Brewing Company $70/set

Birch Ridge Painting

Birch trees are symbolic in many cultures and their beauty is captured perfectly by Doris Pontieri in this painting. Pontieri has developed an exclusive special mixed media technique using charcoal, watercolour, and acrylic paint, which allows her to capture both the strength and softness of birch set in a winter backdrop. The art measures 16x12 inches and includes an Eiffel floater frame. A gift to cherish for a lifetime. Chenier Fine Arts $1,090 7

YQT Pillow

You can travel the world but there is no place like home. These pillows in off-white pebble cotton are a gorgeous reminder. They feature an invisible zipper and a non-toxic print by Toronto-based graphic designer and screen painter Nicole Tarasick. Tarasick has a few other options, including one of the Sleeping Giant, in case you aren’t lucky enough to wake up looking at it every morning and you’d like to.

Portobello Home $69

Christi Belcourt Infinity Shawl 8

This stunning custom infinity shawl is designed and distributed exclusively by the Thunder Bay Art Gallery and showcases the work “This Painting is a Mirror,” by Métis artist and activist Christi Belcourt. It’s also wearable art with a purpose: a portion of the sales of the shawl support the Nimkii Aazhibikong—a place where youth and Elders come to connect to the land and to pass down language and traditional knowledge to future generations. Thunder Bay Art Gallery $29.50

14 The Walleye

The Entertainer

3 7

CoverStory

en-ter-tain-er a person who is always ready, willing, and able to throw together a soirée By Tiffany Jarva 1

Dillon’s Bitters

Create personalized holiday cocktails with these small batch bitters—each bottle is packed with flavour by infusing barks, flowers, roots, berries and/or other plant parts. In winter, try orange—with its smoky cardamom taste it’s a perfect fit for an Old Fashioned—-or cranberry, which is simply festive for making mulled cider or wine. Or be creative and choose pear or ginger for that special someone. Pick your three favourites and you get to make a gift package perfect for any entertainer on your list.

Hygge Loft $15.95 2 8

Macarons

These delightful cookies are tiny pieces of art that melt in your mouth and are a lovely gift for the host/hostess that enjoys entertaining. Not to be confused with macaroons, which are coconutbased, these colourful and pillowy French-inspired macarons are almond meringue-based and locally made. Make sure you pre-order in time for the holiday season.

Little Dulcina’s $30 for 12 3 4

Gorus Maximus

This is the most recent board game created by Thunder Bay’s Conor McGoey of InsideUp Games —a fitting gift for that person who loves hosting old-school game nights. Illustrated by well-known game board artist Kwanchai Moriya, Gorus Maximus is a trick-taking, trump card game that features battling gladiators and can accommodate 2–8 players. Let the games begin! Note: a premium version is available online only. The Game Shelf

$25 4 5

Whiskey Tasting Packages

Whether that person on your list enjoys a nightcap paired with dessert to warm up on a cold winter evening, or if they like to socialize with appetizers and whiskey inhand, we recommend any of this season’s Madhouse Whiskey Tasting Packages. Choose from packages like “The Nightcap” or “International Select” and add on crystal whiskey glasses, T-shirts, or hats to customize your gift—bottoms up! Madhouse $28–$50 6 Varsity Team Ticket Package

Make it easy for that social sporty person to be a part of the Thunderdome excitement all year round. The Lakehead University varsity team ticket package includes access to all events at the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse for men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, women’s and men’s wrestling, a VIP lounge (during basketball doubleheaders), a guaranteed specific seat, first right to refusal on playoff tickets, two complimentary admissions, and more. Lakehead Athletics $100–$165 7

Craft Beer

Those of us who love our local craft beer definitely love our growlers. However, sometimes it’s nice to stock up on a few different types of beer in smaller bottles when entertaining, encouraging guests to try different flavours, or switching to smaller bottles to gift when traveling during the holiday season. Border Run Cream Ale, Bae’s Haze, and Mad Carver IPA are all now available in smaller 500 mL bottles. Dawson Trail Craft Brewery $4.25-$5.25 per bottle

Birch Tray

Nothing quite says entertaining in Northwestern Ontario like serving delicate holiday treats on a tray featuring the beautiful trees that make up such a huge part of our boreal forest. Durable and versatile, this tiny, easyto-transport tray not only features our iconic northern trees but is also made from an environmentally friendly birch plywood in Finland. Finnport $35.95

Workshop (Man Cave) Bar

Why should that person on your gift list go out when they can entertain from the comfort of their own home? Nothing too fussy, yet still beautiful in its rustic and industrial way, this nononsense bar is made of wood and iron pipes, and is ideal for warm-up drinks before heading out, mixing cocktails while entertaining at home, or pouring that last drink of the night. The Design Studio $1325

The Walleye

Food

Tourtière

makes 1 pie

Pastry:

4½-5c all-purpose flour 4 tsp baking powder 2 tsp salt

Le Plat de Résistance

Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.

1 1/3 c shortening

Using a pastry cutter or two butter knives, cut 1 ⅓ shortening into flour mixture until mealy, making a well in the centre of the bowl.

2/3 c shortening 1 c boiling water

Melt ⅔ c shortening in boiling water.

4 tsp lemon juice or vinegar 1 egg

Mix lemon/vinegar and egg into shortening and water. Pour into the dry ingredients. Mix and lightly knead for a minute, just until the dough comes together. Divide dough in half, pat into a puck shape, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. When ready to use, roll one puck to an 11” circle, about 1/8 – ¼ “ thick, and transfer to pie plate, excess hanging over edges. Roll out second puck similarly for the top crust.

By Chef Rachel Globensky Filling:

ehane Benoît (1904–1987), famed Canadian culinary author, food consultant, and TV and radio broadcaster, wrote 30 books during her career, including the Encyclopedia of Canadian Cuisine. A busy lady, and way ahead of her time, Mme Benoît opened a cooking school in Montreal in the late 1920s, and in 1935, one of Canada’s first vegetarian restaurants—this after studying at Paris’ Le Cordon Bleu, and graduating as a food chemist from La Sorbonne. A frequent guest on CBC television’s Take 30, Mme Benoît was a pioneer in demonstrating

16 The Walleye

French-Canadian cuisine to Canadians. Her recipe for tourtière (meat pie) has been passed down in my family for three generations, and it’s a staple at our house during the Christmas season. Different regions of Quebec call for different combinations of meat; pork and beef are most commonly used, though some recipes include game meats such as hare or duck. Traditionally, les habitants top their fragrant tourtière with le ketchup maison (homemade tomato-onion relish), or just regular ol’ Heinz variety, though in my house, you may get the stink-eye for such a suggestion.

1 lb minced pork 1 medium onion, diced 1 clove garlic, minced ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp celery salt ¼ tsp ground cloves ½ c water

¼-½c breadcrumbs

In a heavy-bottomed soup pot, bring filling ingredients to a boil over medium heat, and cook uncovered until pork is cooked through and onion is translucent (about 20 minutes). Turn off heat.

Stir in ¼ c breadcrumbs and let stand for 10 minutes. If the fat is sufficiently absorbed by the breadcrumbs, do not add any more. If you feel the mixture is still too liquidy, add in a tablespoon or two more of the breadcrumbs, stir and let sit another 10 minutes. Repeat if necessary. Cool mixture and fill pastry-lined pie plate.

Cover with top pastry and crimp and seal edges with tines of a fork, or pinch with a flourish if you’re fancy. Brush pastry with egg yolk and cut slits in the top of the tourtière with a paring knife to allow steam to escape while baking (my mom cuts a cute little piggy out of the top crust before rolling it over the top of the pie). Bake in a 400°F oven about 35-45 minutes, until crust is golden brown and filling is steaming. Let pie stand 10 minutes before slicing.

Food

DRINK OF THE MONTH

Blissness Juice Bliss Restaurant

Story by Rebekah Skochinski, Photo by Adrian Lysenko Come the month of December there is no escaping the bustle of the busy season, which is why we think it’s even more important to seek out a little bliss. Bliss Restaurant is well known for their delicious vegan and gluten-free offerings, and they also have a wonderful list of healthy drinks, including a new one they just dreamed up. Their Blissness Juice uses the best of local and market offerings juiced and blended together to maximize the goodness, ensuring this drink is far better for you than any partridge in a pear tree. Speaking of pears, this drink has pear, apple, beet, ginger, orange, and cranberries. In other words, it’s loaded with phytonutrients, vitamins, immune-boosting properties, flavour, and colour—the perfect thing to balance out the inevitable indulgence ahead. It’s also kind of pretty in this tall glass, rimmed with monk fruit sweetener and garnished with fresh mint. Drink up, bliss out.

Bliss Restaurant 87 Cumberland Street North 286-7717

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Open to residents of Ontario 18+. Must be 19 or older to be served alcohol. Government issued photo ID may be required. For full details, visit the Customer Service Desk. These events are sponsored by Superior Shores Gaming Association and Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) assumes no responsibility or liability therefore.

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Food

Brew it Yourself

Chocolate Beers Homebrewing for the Holidays

By Josh Armstrong, PhD, BJCP Certified Beer Judge

omebrewing is great for the holiday season. Not only can you share the beer you brewed at gatherings with your friends and family, but you can also develop recipes to match the tastes of the holiday season. For the most part, “Christmas” beers or Winter Seasonals (BJCP Style 30C) are known to be stronger in alcohol, with a caramel sweetness balanced by a mix of holiday spices (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger). While this style of beer can be delicious on a cold, dark December night, I also think that beers made with chocolate are excellent for the Yuletide. Chocolatized beer can go great with all your holiday fun, from après-ski sessions to pairing with desserts to soothing your voice after a few rounds of carols. If you have never had a chocolate beer, expect to be pleasantly surprised by how well chocolate flavour works in a dark beer. Most frequently, chocolate is found in dark ales, as the flavour of chocolate is perfectly matched by the roasty and toasty characters of dark malted barley. A great commercial example of a chocolate beer is from England: Young’s Double Chocolate Stout. It’s velvety smooth and tastes like fudge, espresso, and brown sugar combined into a liquid form. There are a variety of ways to add chocolate to your homebrew. Surprisingly, using chocolate malt isn’t at all sufficient as it tends to provide very little chocolate flavour, if any at all. To get chocolate to really dominate the character of your brew, you’ll need to add actual forms of chocolate like cocoa powder, chocolate tinctures, or chocolate syrup during the brewing process. Cocoa powder can be used in

either the mash or in the boil. For all-grain brewers, cocoa powder can be added onto the grain bed at the beginning of the sparging process. When added to the boil, make sure it has enough time to be fully dissolved and its oils can be volatilized so that any impact on head retention can be minimized. Dutchprocessed cocoa tends to be mellower than natural cocoa powder and is my preferred choice. Chocolate tinctures are infusions of chocolate in alcohol. Using something neutral like vodka, or rum if you want to add a caramel note, soak some cacao nibs for several days prior to use. This process extracts an intense chocolate flavour from the nibs and can be filtered to separate the liquid from the solids. This liquid is sterile from the alcohol and can be added to your beer at packaging to chocolatize your brew. Chocolate syrup comes in a variety of flavours and types. While they can be an easy addition to the boil and can provide a decent chocolate flavour, I tend to avoid them because they often contain things like corn syrup, preservatives, emulsifiers, and artificial flavourings. In addition to syrup, you can also get crazy and add full chocolate bars, chocolate chips, chocolate liquor, baker’s chocolate, chocolate cereal, brownies, or whatever form of chocolate you want to play with. Experimentation is one of the joys

of homebrewing. For this holiday season, I developed a recipe called “Chocolate Affogato Porter.” Using American porter as the base style (BJCP Style 20A), the recipe calls for the addition of chocolate and locally roasted coffee. With the emphasis placed

on the chocolate in this dark and malty ale, the coffee plays an important supporting role. The flavour target for this recipe is a well-balanced porter that reminds you of an affogato from Prime Gelato made with their delicious Very Chocolate flavoured gelato.

Chocolate Affogato Porter

(38 L, all-grain) OG = 1.060 FG = 1.011 IBU = 38 SRM = ~32 ABV = 6.4%

Water

60 L of Lake Superior

Malt Bill

8.0 kg 2-Row malt (76%) 0.8 kg Crystal 60L (8%) 0.5 kg Flaked Barley (5%) 0.5 kg Carafa III (5%) 0.5 kg Victory Malt (5%) 0.15 kg Black Patent (1%)

Hops

75 g Northern Brewer hops (15% alpha acid)

Yeast

Wyeast 1056 American Ale

Three Beans

50 g Dutch processed cocoa powder 200 g cacao nibs (roughly ground and soaked in vodka for 1 week) 2 L cold-steeped dark roast coffee from St. Paul Roastery

Instructions

Mash for 60 minutes at 64.4°C. Boil for 60 minutes; add hops at start of boil. Add cocoa powder with 10 minutes left in the boil. After completing the whirlpool, cool wort to 18°C and pitch yeast. Ferment for two weeks at 18°C-20°C. Add strained liquor from cocoa nibs and coffee before packaging.

The Walleye

Food

Santé From Santa! By Jeannie Dubois, Certified Sommelier For Stocking Stuffing or Sweet Thoughts:

Founder’s Original Old Fashioned LCBO No. 568667 $1495 200ml Ontario This ready-mixed cocktail shows both sweet baking spice and sassy bourbon whiskey character.

Outset Sparkling Wine LCBO No. 493304 $465 250ml Ontario Stone fruit and citrus aromas with a fine mousse make this a perfect pairing for… anything.

Dillon’s Limoncello LCBO No. 519736 $1595 200ml Ontario With a blend of spicy cardamom and lemon verbena, this handcrafted spirit has plenty of cheer.

20 The Walleye

‘T

is the lovely season of gifting and giving, and if perhaps sugarplums don’t rank with your giftee, no need to fret. There is a plethora of lovely quaffable product available during this celebratory time of year to please every palate. Whether you’re holding a dinner party, prepping gifts for unwrapping, looking for a thoughtful hostess gift, or even just need a bevvie while you’re writing those time-honoured Christmas cards, look no further. Even up here in the great white north, we are on point with our offerings from spirits to sparkling; in our true pioneering milieu we are trending at the forefront with our progressive and gift-worthy tasty tipples.

For Under the Tree or As A Thank You:

And Of Course Beer From Here:

Bachelder Niagara Chardonnay 2016

Dawson Trail Craft Brewery

LCBO No. 302083 $2495 750ml Ontario Beautifully crafted Niagara Chardonnay with a worldy wine appeal that holds fruity new world nuance and old world rusticity.

Imposter Syndrome Available at the brewery in growler – A raspberry cinnamon lactose beer that tastes like our locally legendary Persian. Sounds impossible? Totally true.

Forty Creek Spike Honey Spiced Whisky

Sleeping Giant Brewing Company

LCBO No. 397109 $2695

Coffee Vanilla Porter Available at the brewery in can - A seasonal musthave made with whole Madagascar vanilla bean and cold pressed coffee from local Wolfhead roastery.

750ml Ontario Redolent with cinnamon and ginger spice, this whiskey also has a sweet caramel and vanilla appeal that finishes warm and smooth.

Osoyoos Larose Le Grand Vin 2014 LCBO No. 626325 $4795 750ml BC A collectible from the Okanagan, this standout is a treasure to enjoy now with friends or put in your cellar for the future.

DROP OFF YOUR “OTHER HALF” WHILE YOU SHOP EnjOY ALOnE TImE gUILT-FREE WHILE YOUR “OTHER HALF” IS EnTERTAInED WITH AgE APPROPRIATE bEvIES AnD gAmES In OUR POP-UP SHOP.

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DREAM BIG GET THE SKILLS DO THE JOB

W A P P LY N O 22 The Walleye

confederationcollege.ca

ith its signature ambiguous signage, The Sovereign Room is a familiar, comfortable, and memorable go-to spot. The well-loved gastropub has brought terrific food, craft and import beer, bespoke drink, DJs, and generous hospitality to the city since 2010. As an evolution of the spirit of the place, owner and mastermind Scott Arnot and his crew will soon be unveiling a juxtaposition to the downstairs dining experience. Ascend the spiral staircase to King Ghidrah, the much-anticipated new second-floor venue. Magic awaits in a gold-accented, loungey space reminiscent of the days when the Dragon Room was one of Port Arthur’s most talked-about dining rooms. Original 1960s geometric iron dividers frame large windows overlooking south Red River Road. The patina of gold-painted brick adds a fantastical glow, because, after all, King Ghidrah is a golden-scaled film monster who’s also been paid homage to by the hip hop artist MF Doom. Intimate lighting, high-backed indigo banquettes, low tables, and moveable seating make a dreamy, glamorous environment for

pre-booked cocktail parties, large group parties, and special events. Recline with classic cocktails and fresh, boozy concoctions curated by bar manager Marie Skaf. Look forward to a shared plate menu and desserts with explosions of Eastern flavors as chef Jennifer Sauve focuses on pan-Asian elements to maximize the bounty of seasonal ingredients. The playful menu features yakitori grilled explorations with the distinctively sweet, salty, and smoky flavours prepared in the custom-designed upstairs kitchen. Sommelier Cale Graydon will deftly pair wines to harmonize with the variety and complexity of the foods. Translating Arnot’s vision into a reality has taken the talents and skills of many people, including Sarah Furlotte, Greg Caerveth, Jennifer Sauve, and Marie Skaf. With a wink to the legacy of the Dragon Room, King Ghidrah will definitely offer a great new charismatic and energetic spin to the Waterfront District scene. King Ghidrah is located at 220 Red River Road. For more information on booking an event for up to 80 people, please contact Marie Skaf at marieskaf@yahoo.com.

Food

Everything is Golden

Sneak Peek of King Ghidrah Story by Betty Carpick, Photos by Adrian Lysenko

The Walleye

Food Nomad Opens at the Thunder Bay International Airport By Nancy Saunders

N Local Fare Takes Flight

(L-R) Tavia Brereton, Megan Paxton, Vimal Vijayakumar, Errol Hoeppner, Shawna Deagle, and Nikos Mantis

(807) 939-1446 24 The Walleye

omad opens this month in the departure lounge of the Thunder Bay International Airport, offering the deliciously creative fare we’ve come to expect from talented and industrious pair Nikos Mantis and Shawna Deagle. The two started Pinetree Catering in January 2013, Local Motion food truck in August 2013, and The Sapling Bakery in March 2017, and are productive contributors to Thunder Bay’s impressive and expanding local food scene. Nomad is part of the airport’s greater expansion and upgrade to the departure lounge, and has been almost two years in the works. Its aesthetic is pleasantly northern, conveying the beauty of the local environment through “natural wood finishes in birch and maple, stone and slate features, and a palette of fresh, vibrant greens,” says Mantis. A “grab-and-go” food service and café, Nomad is open 365 days a year between 4 am and 9 pm. Its offerings deliciously check all the boxes, from breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert to coffee, tea, snacks, and drinks. “Parfaits made from local yogurt and granola, a bagel bar, local cheese and fruit plates, and hot oatmeal” are among the early morning choices, says Mantis. Those who love the Sapling Bakery’s artisanal breads and spreads sold at the

Thunder Bay Country Market will be pleased to find familiar fare, as well as additional fine baking including danishes and scones. Throughout the day, choices featuring Pinetree and Local Motion flavours include a pesto chicken and pea shoot wrap; a pastrami, chili Gouda, and sauerkraut sandwich on a house baked rye roll; a smoked trout poke roll; a tofu poke bowl; a variety of salads, and local charcuterie. Coffee is from St Paul Roastery and Rose N Crantz Roasting Company. Opening just in time for the busy holiday season, Nomad also offers several local retail products including Prime Gelato, Bay Meats, Heartbeat Hot Sauce, Chocolate Cow, locally roasted coffee beans, and retail swag from Ungalli and others—meaning you no longer have to worry about safely stowing these items in a checked bag! Nomad is also licensed and serves Sleeping Giant Brewery craft beers, single serve canned wines, and single serve premixed drinks. With over 1000 daily passengers passing through the departure lounge, Nomad is poised to introduce Thunder Bay’s unique flavours, favourites, and culture to a wide-ranging and captive audience, giving them a delicious parting gift as they leave our great city.

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

GIVE THE GIFT OF

HEALTH & WELLNESS ONE MONTH

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SPECIAL

$60 +TA X

On sale until Dec 31/18 and must be activated by Jan 31/19

12 admission coupons for price of 10 Gift certificates starting at $5

Group Bookings & Discounts TEAMS & FAMILIES WELCOME!

226 Ambrose St 807.285.1142 | info@thehavenhostel.ca

@thehavenhostel

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 684-3311 OR VISIT GAMESCOMPLEX.COM

The Firefly is a combination water

bottle/lantern which can be solar or USB charged. Great for sitting around the campfire or hanging out on your deck in the evening. Never lose your drink again!

Wishing a wonderful winter season to all of our past, present, and future clients!

404 Balmoral St. Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5G8 Tel: (807) 577-8848 jw@chaltrek.com

The Walleye

Food

Louisa Po

Welcome to the Neighbourhood Po’s Variety

Story by Savanah Tillberg, Photos by Anna Buske

ew feelings compare to those you experience when building something new with the people you love. This past September, after months of hard work and preparation, Kyaw Soe Po and his family eagerly opened up Thunder Bay’s newest family business, Po’s Variety. Louisa Po and her brother Kyaw Soe were born in Burma, but moved to Thailand in their early childhood. Their experiences growing up in Asia led them to develop a love for food and cooking, which became the backbone of the business they have created 15 years after moving to Canada. Po’s Variety—a community convenience store and takeout restaurant that specializes in a number of Asian dishes ranging from Thai and Chinese to East Indian foods—is the beginning of the latest chapter in their family’s proud history. Louisa says that naming this

26 The Walleye

Kyaw Soe and Louisa Po

Flying just got a whole lot better

business “Po’s” was very important to the family as it honours their great-grandfather who was educatSMALL ed as a doctor in the United States SHOULDER and fought for Canada in both the First and Second World Wars. Louisa says that opening Po’s Variety has given the family an opportunity to serve Thunder Bay, a community that her family loves dearly. She says, “We wanted to try to have our own business because we love to cook and we want to share our food with the people of Thunder Bay.” She adds that her family feels privileged that they have the ability to build a business in Thunder Bay and H AT PATC H they hope the community enjoys A LT E R N AT E C O LO U R their store and food. ROUND G R E AT F O O D + C O F F E E + B E E R Po’s Variety is open Monday S H O U L D E R through Saturday and is located INSIDE THE THUNDER B AY AIRPORT DEPARTURE LOUNGE at 444 West Churchill Drive. The family is very appreciative of the community’s support and Po’s is pinetree_catering Follow Us: /PinetreeCatering well on its way to becoming a local www.PinetreeCatering.com | 807-621-4330 | info@pinetreecatering.com favourite.

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FilmTheatre The Second Most Pleasurable Thing We Do In the Dark. A Column About Movies

Unconventional Holiday Movies

By Michael Sobota

There’s a Christmas tree somewhere in London with a bunch of presents underneath it that will never be opened. And I thought, if I survive all this, I’d go to that house, apologize to the mother there, and accept whatever punishment she chose for me. Prison… death… didn’t matter. Because at least in prison, at least in death, you know, I wouldn’t be in fuckin’ Bruges. -Ray (Colin Farrell) closing lines in In Bruges

y holidays—that period encompassing the lead-up to Christmas and ending after the New Year arrives—were not always happy times. I think this is more common than we readily admit. When I was in university, I once came home to my parents for the holidays. It’s A Wonderful Life had just been freed of its copyright and was screening endlessly on television. I must have watched it four times during that stay at home. Shortly thereafter, my father died. That holiday became memorable for his death entwined with my first viewing ever of It’s A Wonderful Life. Unconventional things can occur during the holidays, putting them slightly or greatly out-of-sync. Here are five unconventional holiday movies that celebrate—and sometimes try to ignore—that most Christian holiday.

An American Tail (1986)

The War of the Roses (1989)

The Black Candle (2008)

This glorious animated movie opens on Hanukkah in Russia but quickly abandons any sense of holiday atmosphere. An extended family of mice are about to emigrate to America—a land where, a wise elder mouse tells them, “There are no cats and the streets are paved with cheese.” When they land in America, a young mouse, Fievel (voiced by Phillip Glasser) gets separated from his family and must find them while dodging the (very real) American cats, sans cheese. The story is a musical adventure, colourfully animated by Universal Pictures (a rare non-Disney animation success) that balances the loneliness of being lost in a strange land with an eventual happy reunion.

Danny DeVito directs Michael Douglas (Oliver Rose) and Kathleen Turner (Barbara Rose) in this knock-down, drag-out divorce story set against that traditional holiday that is supposed to bring families together. The season is signaled simply by an elegant Christmas tree set in the background of a modern mansion that the Roses occupy. When they agree to a divorce, they disagree about who gets the mansion. And therein begins the wildly cinematic fight. DeVito stars as their nonplussed divorce lawyer, watching the carnage escalate with both mental and physical gymnastics.

This movie celebrates Kwanzaa, a gift-giving holiday enjoyed by more than 40 million Pan-African celebrants. In tracing the history of Kwanzaa, we learn about the struggles and the achievements of African-American families, communities, and culture. Co-written by the poet Maya Angelou and M.K. Asante (who also directs the film), it has a smart storytelling structure that doesn’t lecture but opens, explores, and explains the “seven principles of Kwanzaa” in a welcoming and generous way. The film is an open window on a holiday tradition that is not “an alternative” but stands wholly on its own.

In Bruges (2008) Martin McDonagh fashions this sad, tragic, and wickedly funny story set against the background of Christmas in England, but taking place in Bruges, Belgium. Ray (Colin Farrell) and Ken (Brendan Gleeson) are hitmen who, in carrying out a job, accidentally kill a child. Their boss banishes them to Bruges to await further instructions. Ray is despondent, Ken is ebullient. Their banter is bleak, blistering, and hilarious. The Christmas “back home” hangs in the background without intruding directly on their Belgian capers. The movie is a model of McDonagh’s buddy/ betrayal structure, laced with profanity and the alwayspresent threat of violence. It may take a while for your ear to adjust to the Irish brogue, but it is the dialogue that is the real gift in this story.

And here are five more unconventional holiday movies: Less Than Zero (1987), Edward Scissorhands (1990), Eyes Wide Shut (1999), Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang (2005), and Snowpiercer (2013).

28 The Walleye

Christmas With a Capital “C” (2011)

I had never heard of this movie until I began my research for this column. Watching it was truly a pleasure. It is a holiday movie for atheists! A successful attorney, Mitch (Daniel Baldwin) returns to his home town of Trapper Falls, Alaska. In a revenge plot against a former classmate who won the woman he was in love with, he files a lawsuit against the town (the former classmate is now its mayor). The town has set up a traditional Christian Nativity scene in the town square, paid for by taxpayer money. The characters are shallow and two-dimensional, but director Helmut Schleppi and writer Andrea Gyertson Nasfell are really laying out the case for the real reason for the season. The dialogue zings and hits its targets well, and while we know where the story is going to end up long before we get there, I smirked and chuckled and admired the intellectual fencing.

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FilmTheatre

It’s Almost Christmas and I’m Singing

Elf Jr: The Musical Hits Thunder Bay By Krista Power

aramount Live is bringing the spirit of Christmas to Thunder Bay with their production of Elf Jr: The Musical — a delightful and funny chorus of songs and cheer. The stage will be full of actors between the ages of 8 and 13 years old this December for this engaging and animated musical. Some of these young thespians are already seasoned performers, while others will be gracing the stage for the first time. Elf Jr: the Musical follows the storyline of the feature film of the same name made popular with Saturday Night Live alumni Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf. While the story is the same as the movie, this production brings in music and dancing to enforce the point that Christmas is for everyone and family is not just where you are born, but who you choose. The story of Buddy the Elf discovering his ancestry and travelling to New York City to find his father is filled with hilarity, sentimentality, and Christmas spirit to the brim. This musical is directed by Brenna Hankkio and Theresa Thibert; both have been involved in community theatre for many years and are looking forward to seeing

their actors shine on stage. Thibert is a veteran director for Paramount, while this is Hankkio’s first time in the director’s chair. Hankkio saw the move to directing as a natural progression from her stage acting over the years and is thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to “see the kids move through rehearsals and seeing their friendships grow as the show comes together.” Thibert is enjoying the confidence that she is seeing grow in her actors; she notes that “theatre can be an experience for life as they learn to support and respect each other as performers.” Thibert says that Paramount Live provides a “safe space for actors to respect each other as artists and develop their own characters” and she is proud of how they have come together and bonded in a group to benefit the show. Cael Dixon will be stealing the show as Buddy the Elf and he is no stranger to the spotlight, as he has been involved in more than nine productions with Paramount Live in his young career. He truly loves musicals and has a talent for connecting with his audience. Dixon is looking forward to the comedy that his character brings to the show, noting that

although he normally plays more serious roles; he is having a lot of fun as Buddy the Elf. “I like the emotion that you can portray on your face when you interpret the words in the music along with the reaction I get from those who are watching,” says Dixon. He is also having a lot of fun with the ensemble cast and really enjoys working with young actors. “There is a lot of depth to having performers of different ages and having people who have experience and some that are new on the same stage collaborating and working towards telling a story that people can connect with,” he says. Dixon has been inspired by musicals since he was very young and really encourages other children and

teens to get involved and try out a theatre experience. He is grateful for the inclusivity of Paramount Live and the community that has allowed him to shine and be a part of a team of actors that hope to bring the Christmas spirit to our city. The excitement and spirit for theatre is easily conveyed by Dixon and his career is no doubt just beginning. Elf Jr: the Musical runs December 12–15 at the Paramount Theatre at 7 pm nightly. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the theatre 22 South Court Street. The box office is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–7 pm.

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FilmTheatre

A Christmas Carol Dickens Hits the Stage at Magnus Theatre

Story by Ayano Hodouchi Dempsey, Photo by Scott Hobbs (L-R) Aerhyn Lau, Laura Del Papa, Cassandra Guthrie, Jeremy Proulx, Mario Crudo, Christopher Vergara, and Jess Falcioni

harles Dickens’ tale of the redemption of a cold, miserly man who despises Christmas, adapted for the stage by playwright Michael Shepherd, comes to Magnus Theatre this month. Artistic director Thom Currie had set his mind on A Christmas Carol and read some 30 adaptations of Dickens’ iconic work for the stage. He eventually chose Shepherd’s version, not only because he was an Ontario playwright, but also because he himself had performed in it fresh out of university and the experience remained with him. Tracking down Shepherd,

now in his mid-80s and retired near Sudbury, was not easy, but Currie did some detective work and managed to get in touch with him. Shepherd’s A Christmas Carol is faithful to the original, with one major adaptation—it requires only seven actors, and all the characters other than Ebenezer Scrooge are played by six actors, meaning each actor takes on four to six roles. “Michael chose a really interesting way of doubling up the actors,” Currie explains. “The actor who plays Scrooge’s nephew also plays the ghost of Jacob Marley, and the woman who plays Scrooge’s sister in

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the past also plays the young daughter of Cratchit.” The people Scrooge knew in his life, past and present, weave in and out of Scrooge’s consciousness. “It’s not really about Christmas; it’s more about a man who lives in a very cruel place, who cannot bring himself to help others, and what he discovers is that life is better when you are helping others, when you are participating in society,” says Currie. Currie is proud to announce that the cast will be headed by Mario Crudo, who was Magnus Theatre’s artistic director for 24 years before he stepped down in 2017. “Mario was

here one day, we were talking, and I just looked at him and said, ‘Would you consider acting again?’ I asked him point blank, ‘Would you want to play Ebenezer Scrooge?’ He got very nervous, said it’s been a long time, but I sent him the script, he read it, and said yes, he would do it.” A Christmas Carol opens at the Magnus Theatre on December 6, and there will be 20 shows until December 22. There is also a paywhat-you-can performance on December 16 at 2 pm. For dates and times and ticket availability, go to Magnus Theatre’s website, visit their box office, or call 345-5552.

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TheArts

From Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s Collection

Carol Lake/ Night Scene By Andrea Terry, Acting Curator, Thunder Bay Art Gallery Artist: Angus Trudeau Title: Carol Lake/Night Scene Date: 1978 Medium: Enamel paint on Bristol Board Dimensions: 56 x 72 cm

ngus Trudeau (1907–1984) spent most of his life on and around Manitoulin Island, which inspired his art production. He worked as a cook on Great Lakes boats, freighters, and ferries. He was also spent time in lumber yards working as a cook, as well as a logger and a pulpwood cutter. Trudeau devoted his spare time and retirement years to learning to paint and make models of boats and lighthouses. As a result, the AnishinaabeOdawa artist developed an insightful and pragmatic approach to both model-making and painting.

34 The Walleye

In his painting practice, Trudeau started out turning to his collection of images, newspaper clippings, photographs, and postcards. Taking these images, Trudeau combined them and created collages. Learning from these works, he went on to paint expansive works featuring prominent lake freighters and ferry boats in extreme foreground. Trudeau spent years honing his technique, and “Carol Lake/Night Scene” signals his achievements. Surrounding the vessel, the artist has skillfully depicted intriguing

atmospheric effects. While the tiny sun sets on the extreme right, the darkening sky is riddled with patches of greys, blacks, and greens, as well as various textures, making for a charged vista. The artist seems to have bent the so-called “laws” of perspective conflating the profile and front views of the vessel and yet the representation is startlingly vivid and dynamic. Artist Blake Debassige describes Trudeau’s final years, writing, “When poor health and poor eyesight made painting difficult for

him, Angus apprenticed his younger relations. He showed them how to colour and how to replace things in a composition. He used to say that he was preparing some of these young people to be artists….[W]ith the work that he left behind, and his children and grandchildren, we have testimony of his existence here. We can draw upon his works as ‘living words.’ They are pictures that we can relate to and learn from. His work will have a lasting effect on everyone who sees it.”

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36 The Walleye

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TheArts

Mark Riley Creates Unique Gifts and Art Through Sandblasting By Dan Grant

“W

hat makes this gratifying is hearing people’s stories,” says Mark Riley, owner and artist for Blast Wares. When you meet Riley, it is immediately evident that this is more than about art. While living in Calgary, Riley was a certified graphic designer, helping musicians design album covers. When he and his wife moved back to Thunder Bay in 2004, it was hard for him to find steady work. In 2010, he started experimenting with wine glasses and immediately felt like he found something cool that could translate into a business. Always the perfectionist, Riley quickly became frustrated when he started working on more complex art designs. So he went searching and ended up taking multiple trips to California to learn from a Master Sandblaster. The learning came naturally to Riley and before he knew it he was producing world-class carvings. Now he works out of his home and garage while parenting his son Lucas and twins Brooke and Kaylan. After purchasing an environmentally safe, high-end sand blasting cabinet that “puts out cleaner air than what comes in,” he can now cozy up in his garage and sandblast anything from glass to granite, from rock to wood. While he has done huge pieces that you can see at the Marina,

a large part of his business comes from commissions. “I get a lot of requests lately from people to design memorials for pets,” Riley says. He sometimes gets asked to carve special items a customer brings him, like a grandfather’s ashtray or a vase that’s been passed down generations. He also specializes in unique, custom, one-of-a-kind gifts that truly means something to the person receiving it. And that’s just the way he likes it. “You know that someone thought about you enough to come up with this gift idea,” he says. What’s even more unique is the fact Mark Riley and Blast Wares is the only place in Thunder Bay you can get this artistic sandblasting done. For more information and to contact Riley, you can visit his website at blastwares.com, call 620-9923, or email blastwares@tbaytel.net.

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TheArts

21 Pillows

Exploring Our Impact on the Earth By Emma Christensen

lass sculptor Cheryl WilsonSmith invites us to consider our effect on the landscape with 21 Pillows, an interactive installation held at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. Wilson-Smith takes inspiration from a natural landscape that is close to her heart. She modelled the 10,000 glass stones she created after those found on a moraine—a ridge formed by a glacial deposit of rocks—near her home in Red Lake, Ontario. This is the award-winning sculptor’s first installation, and she spent two years preparing for it with the support of the Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts. “I’ve gained incredible skill and knowledge just working that intensely at one thing,” she says. Although most of the stones are the layered, kiln-fired glass sculptures indicative of Wilson-Smith’s work, some are smooth and round, the product of an experimental combination of powdered glass and beach sand. Instead of asking her audience to view the installation from a distance, she encourages us to respectfully pick up, move and place the stones on a series of pillows

38 The Walleye

arranged on the gallery floor. “If you hold that stone and you walk around the gallery and you’re considering where to place it, that stone holds your energy to some degree,” Wilson-Smith says. She hopes that 21 Pillows will help visitors to explore how they influence not only the environment within the gallery, but also the natural landscape. Like our impact on the environment, the outcome of the installation is unknown. Wilson-Smith plans to track its transformation using time-lapse photography. “I’m excited to see the energy that people bring into the room, and the changes that occur in the landscape that we’re responsible for,” she says. 21 Pillows runs from December 13, 2018 to March 3, 2019. The opening reception and artist talk will take place on December 13 at 7:30 pm. Wilson-Smith will be on hand to interact with gallery visitors on December 14 and 15 from noon to 5 pm. Admission to the Thunder Bay Art Gallery is pay what you can, suggested amount $5. To learn more, visit cherylwilsonsmith.com or visit the Thunder Bay Art Gallery at theag.ca.

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TheArts

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Moccasins made by Jean Marshall

A True Community Event Chapman’s Christmas Art Sale By Jolene Banning

magine you’re a last-minute shopper with a long list of people to buy for. You walk into the back room of Chapman’s Gas Bar. Immediately you’re greeted with smells of homemade soup and bannock, and your sights are fixed on leather, fur, birch bark, and colour. With nearly two dozen artists signed up for Chapman’s Christmas Art Sale taking place on December 15 and 16, it is the place to find hand-crafted, beautifully made, one-of-a-kind arts and crafts. “I still remember that first year,” says visual artist Jean Marshall. “There was only six of us and Elliott Doxtater-Wynn and Nick Sherman pulled out their guitars and jammed all weekend.” Another artist brought a loaf of bannock to share and Val

40 The Walleye

Chapman, store owner and matriarch of the Chapman family, put on a pot of soup. Although the sale has grown, with artists and crafters coming from near and far to sell their work, at its heart it hasn’t changed much over the years, remaining a true community event. This year, nearly two dozen artists are expected, including Janelle Wawia, Mary Kuurilla, Kevin Belmore, Cree Stevens, and Shannon and Ryan Gustafson. You can shop for everything from items made of birch bark like baskets, lamps, and jewelry, to leather moccasins and gauntlet mitts, to thought-provoking prints and original paintings, and everything else in between. Part-time artist Kanina Terry

from Sioux Lookout says when she’s not working full-time she loves to bead, sew, and embellish second-hand clothing into modern, cool clothing with Anishinaabek flare and style. “I love creating,” says Terry. “I had my first sale on the pow-wow trail when I was 13 and have been creating ever since.” She first heard of the Chapman’s sale from Facebook a few years ago. She’s excited to make the journey to Thunder Bay to set up a table and visit with friends. The sale runs December 15 and 16 from 11 am to 5 pm each day. Chapman’s Gas Bar is located on Fort William First Nation on City Road.

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TheArts

Not Your Usual Bazaar

The Christmas Bizarre Bazaar By Noel Jones

t is now December, and many of us have begun to put up our Christmas lights and scour the stores for the perfect gifts. As we all know, there is always that one odd friend who never wants anything normal. If you happen to be shopping for someone who will appreciate a less traditional present this year, the Christmas Bizarre Bazaar is definitely a place you want to check out. It is Thunder Bay’s home for weird and quirky art, and I met up with local artist and founder, Merk, to find out what it is all about. Thunder Bay artist Chris “Merk” Merkley started the Bazaar five years ago as a place for people to sell less conventional art. “I’d been at other sales around town, and I make weird stuff…that doesn’t really fit with a lot of the sales,” he says. After speaking with a few other artists who had the same issue, he decided to start a sale where he and other misfits would feel at home. Merk says he has “a core group of people that [he draws] from” to fill the spots, with about five to ten new artists every year. One regular we can expect, aside from Merk himself, is Randy Monteith, a fantasy and sci-fi digital artist. There are also tattoo artists Black Mast (husband and wife duo Mike Gresham and Sonya Lacroix) and boy Roland, who are putting their digital pieces and paintings on display, as well as Love Graffiti Studios, who sell found and reassembled furniture, found art, and mixed media pieces, and newcomer Ryan Mackett, who Merk says makes “ink pieces and little strange watercolours.” These are just a few of the artists whose work you can purchase at the Christmas Bizarre Bazaar. There will also be work from a number of other artists including metal and fabric workers, painters, and food vendors. The sale takes place December

42 The Walleye

8 and 9 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Baggage Building Art Centre. Merk encourages patrons to try and make it to both days as there are a number of artists who are only there for one day, so each day promises to be a truly unique and bizarre experience.

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TheArts

Stitch by Stitch The Art of Embroidery By Betty Carpick

n prehistoric times, animal skins were fastened together with sinew and plant material using needle-like tools made of antler, bone, or ivory. Before the sewing machine was invented in the 19th century, all sewing was done by hand using various combinations of stitches and materials. Embroidery, the ancient craft of decorating fabric, highlights how a single stitch can be a tiny area of illumination, a mark—or even a pixel. With each generation, embroidery is reinvented. The focus on patterning and transposing an image to a charted form has also given way to more free-form approaches. Visualcentric online sites and services like Etsy, Pinterest, and Instagram are bursting at the seams with handmade items by makers from around

the world. By the shores of Lake Superior, the Thunder Bay Needle Arts Guild practices embroidery in all of its many forms. Established 35 years ago, the non-profit bridges handicraft and community during bi-monthly gatherings at the Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre at 700 River Street. Community members happily share their collective knowledge while creating art and beauty through threaded needlework. As “a fellowship of persons,” the Guild has experienced ebbs and flows in the popularity of needlework. Interested persons including beginners are welcome to visit a gathering before joining the Guild. Devoted to encouraging and promoting the generative potential of handwork, the Guild provides

expertise on counted-thread embroidery including cross-stitch (the oldest form of embroidery and found all over the world), needlepoint, petit point, and Bargello with its geometric motif, plus traditional embroidery forms including Hardanger or whitework, blackwork from Spain, and redwork developed in America. Guild member Claire Archer, who learned petit point and needlepoint as a high school student in Sault Ste. Marie in the 1950s, says, “It’s addicting. It’s worse than any drug.” She values the rewards of

seeing tangible results during many relaxing and comforting hours of immersing in stitching projects. Recent studies have suggested that the meditative qualities of needlework can lower blood pressure and decrease heart rate. With the added value of creativity and sustained social contact, individuals may consider joining a like-minded group such as the Guild. For more information on the Thunder Bay Needle Arts Guild, contact Guild member Earlene McCartney at 767-1022 or earlenemc@gmail.com.

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In warm appreciation, we wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. Monday-Friday 9:30am-5pm & Saturdays 10am-4pm Stop In at 330 Archibald St. S. or Call (807) 624-9005 to order!

44 The Walleye

NOW SELLING DINNER BOXES FOR TWO. TAKE OUT ONLY CALL TO RESERVE (807) 623-8052

TheArts

Revealing the Magic Thunder Bay Carvers Celebrate 20 Years By Amy Sellors

nside of a piece of wood lies something magical—a face, a shape, a creature. And the Thunder Bay Carvers have been helping people discover that magic for 20 years. Their chisels and knives bring your plan and imagination to life. The knots, the grain, and imperfections of the wood make each carving a unique piece of art that tells a story. Les Barrow opened Barrow Carving and Supply Co on Court Street in 1995. His clientele wanted supplies, but they also became inspired to learn, share successes and failures, and build a community for carving enthusiasts. In February 1998, the Thunder Bay Carvers club was born. Meetings are on the third Wednesday of the month at 7 pm at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church. Members talk with new and experienced carvers, ask for advice, show their work, and take part in workshops to learn different techniques. You can start as young as 12 (bring a parent) and there is no maximum age. Many founding members still attend. Just before Barrow’s store closed more than 10 years ago, Allen Nethercott made his first visit and saw a notice for a carving class. He signed up with his teenage son and he was hooked. He says he was initially intimidated, but the members’ generosity helped him get started. Now, Nethercott handles public relations and media for the club, connecting the Carvers with the

community. One of the club’s larger projects hangs in the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium: a carved wooden quilt that celebrates Thunder Bay and the club’s 10th anniversary. The Thunder Bay Carvers work with the Regional Food Distribution Association of Northwestern Ontario and the Little Lions Waldorf Child and Family Centre, and their work is often on display at the CLE and the Hymers Fall Fair. Christmas ornaments are the current club project. Carvers work within their skillset to create simple or intricate ornaments. Many local craft shows feature the work of the Thunder Bay Carvers. “Carving makes you forget about everything else and just focus on what you’re doing, so you don’t lose any fingers. It’s a stress release,” says Nethercott. “There are so many multi-talented people in Thunder Bay.” Carving is a traditional skill practiced around the world. As screens fill our days, staying connected to our roots is even more important. Always evolving, carving embraces new technology and techniques. The Thunder Bay Carvers have spent 2018 proudly looking back over their 20 years, and they are already brainstorming projects to celebrate their 25th anniversary. To join the Thunder Bay Carvers or find out more information, find them on Facebook at facebook.com/ thunderbaycarvers.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year A big thank-you to all my past and present clients

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The Walleye

Outdoor

That’s Snow Business Helping Out When Nature Doesn’t Deliver

Story and Photos by Darren McChristie

▲Operations manager Lyndon Letwin (l) and co-owner Dan Kardas (r) standing in front of a tower gun at the base of the Hornet. ▼ Fan guns produce large amounts of snow, but are energy-intensive and difficult to move around.

46 The Walleye

Lyndon Letwin, operations manager at Mount Baldy Ski Area, is all smiles as I make my way up to meet him at the base of the Hornet ski run. It’s a bitterly cold clear November day, despite the fact it looks and feels more like a blizzard. The roar of the snow guns is intense, but the sight is impressive— brilliantly white snow is flying out of the mouth of the fan guns. Letwin is standing on what resembles a whale made of snow, having just adjusted one of the 16 snow guns Mount Baldy has in their arsenal. This one’s already pumped out over a metre of the white stuff in just a few hours, which explains the grin. “I shoot for five to seven feet [1.5 to 2 m] of snow on high traffic and racing-utilized areas,” says Letwin. “This gives me the depth to dig deep with the snowcat, which, in turn, makes it possible to groom the hill to the highest standards.” Temperatures in November were

ripe for grumbling in Thunder Bay, but ideal for making snow. “The drier the air, the lower the ‘wet bulb’ temperature is, and the more efficiently the snow can form,” explains Letwin. “Our sweet spot is around -15°C—cold enough to maximize the output of the snowmakers, but warm enough that equipment doesn’t instantly freeze.” Generally speaking, the colder the better; however, Letwin says there is a trade-off. “The cold is an ever-present double-edged sword. It means we can be more productive, but it exhausts workers and is hard on equipment.” Working with water and extreme cold are challenging enough, but the steep slopes make for a freezing, wet, and strenuous job. Hoses and valves freeze solid within minutes if left unattended. As Letwin puts it, “Tiger torches and blow torches are your friends!” The need to augment natural snow with artificial snow is a reality

for an industry that’s been hard hit by the effects of climate change. Ski areas everywhere depend heavily on snowmaking. Artificial snow is more dense than natural snow, so it’s more durable and can be heavily groomed, helping to extend the season. This year, Mount Baldy, along with Loch Lomond, are poised to be among first ski areas in Ontario to open, the earliest in recent memory. Making snow is a simple yet energy-intensive process. Using a pond as the source, water is pumped at a rate of up to 3000 litres per minute at high pressure (300 psi) through a network of pipes up to several snow guns placed strategically on the hill. Water is then pumped from the pipe to the nozzles of the guns via flexible high pressure fire hoses. The combination of a high-pressure water/air mix, sprayed as a fine mist, and the right temperature produces snow. Mount Baldy uses two very different types of snow guns, each with distinct advantages. Fan guns produce large amounts of snow at lower temperatures, but require a great

deal of electricity to run both their air compressors and powerful fans. They are also heavy and difficult to move around, often requiring the use of a snowcat. Alternatively, tower guns are useful due to their light weight and portability. Tower guns can be carried by one or two people and placed on steep terrain. They don’t use a fan, consuming less energy but requiring colder temperatures to produce the same quality and quantity of snow. Today, things are running smoothly—temperatures are right at the sweet spot, the sun is shining, and the snow is flying. The crew at Mount Baldy is two weeks into a sixweek snowmaking season, on their way to blanketing 65% of the hill in artificial snow. Letwin, who is also an avid skier, enjoys the challenge of making snow. “I like the sense of accomplishment after taking such a large area and sculpting it into something beautiful and fun for all ages,” he says. “There is also nothing more fun than pushing out large piles of snow in a snowcat!”

Outdoor

Lyndon Letwin riding over a whale of snow made overnight.

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when the Ruttan Block retail space opened up, with renovations being done by Drew Nelson from DNC Renovations and Tranmer herself. Tranmer’s own beauty routine, her passion for skin care, and her keen interest in the beauty rituals of others led to the store’s name. Through ongoing research and careful curation, Tranmer has selected a variety of product lines that fit with her own brand. “I carry plenty of skin care products, from face masks to anti-aging products, cleansers, and toners,” she says. “I have a small men’s line with beard oils, shave soaps, and aftershave. Baby care and maternity products range from diaper rash balms, sun care, sleep oils,

Embark on a New Ritual

Treat Yourself at Ritual Skin Co. Story by Nancy Saunders, Photos by Kristen Pouru

alking into the calm, clean space of Ritual Skin Co. is like stepping into a sanctuary. White porcelain, birch, stainless steel, and poured concrete surfaces make up the subtle, elegant surroundings, with a large line-drawn mural and framed local artwork adding to the space’s charm. Owner Elsie Tranmer has created a beautiful refuge at 8 South Court Street where one can peruse an impressive variety of Canadian artisanal products geared toward beauty, health, and pampering. Bookended by Sweet North Bakery and mars. clothing, Ritual Skin Co. is the newest kid on the

48 The Walleye

Ruttan Block, which is full of locally owned businesses. Tranmer is no newcomer to the world of entrepreneurship, having founded Hail Cosmetics in 2016, she says, “with an idea of creating a natural, cruelty-free makeup company.” Hail Cosmetics, whose products are sold in various locations in town as well as in retail stores as far away as Regina, was spawned by what Tranmer describes as her “growing interest in the ingredients, processes, and business” of skin care. Tranmer dreamed of someday opening a storefront to offer a selection of products with a similar ethos. She fast-tracked these plans

and belly creams. And, of course, cosmetics!” Tranmer encourages customers to visit the store in order to test products they might be interested in. She offers samples and expertise in choosing the best items for individual needs. Down the line, Tranmer is excited to offer educational workshops, “so you can learn about key ingredients and even meet local creators and learn about their stories.” Do yourself and those on your holiday gift list a favour and visit Ritual Skin Co., because as Tranmer says, “self-care is not selfish.” For more information visit facebook.com/ritualskinco.

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CityScene

Christmas is in the Air Sandpiper Farm

Story by Deanne Gagnon, Photos by Patrick Chondon

hirty years ago, Al Miller followed in his brother’s footsteps and started a Christmas tree farm. “My brother out west had started a farm in his retirement, so I started a little earlier, before I retired, and by the time I retired I had the trees ready to sell,” he says. From planting and watering seedlings to trimming and shaping trees, Sandpiper Farm is run by Al, his wife Marilyn, their son Chris, daughter-in-law Jen, and grandchildren Sara and Shaun. Every tree is trimmed by hand; there is quite an art to it, one that Jen says “Chris has mastered.” Around 450 Christmas trees are sold annually. Al does the planting, then heads south for the winter. Chris and Jen, taking the reins, have been expanding. The Milk House Boutique, aptly named as it resides in the original milk house, features Jen’s beautiful handmade Fraser fir wreaths, and knitted items and jewelry made by

Chris’ aunt. Chris also runs a wood mill, producing local lumber for sale. You can expect to be greeted with candy canes for the kids, hot chocolate, apple cider, and possibly some delicious Christmas cookies. The Miller family takes pride in the business’ atmosphere of togetherness. “It’s really nice when people come out. It’s such a good feeling, everybody in a great mood with their family. It’s really family oriented. It’s great seeing all the kids every year getting taller,” says Chris. There has been at least one engagement, plenty of photo shoots, and they were even involved in locally filmed movie, Angelique’s Isle. With reasonable prices of $35-45 per tree, Sandpiper Farm is a great place to take the family to cut down the perfect Christmas tree and kick off this holiday season. Contact the farm at 622-7349 or find them on Facebook at facebook.com/ SandpiperChristmasTrees.

The Walleye

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Random Knits of Kindness

Wrapping One Another in Kindness this Winter Season By Michelle Kolobutin

andom Knits of Kindness is a campaign organized by NorWest Community Health Centres. It is a continuation of a campaign that ran in the summer of 2018, Random Hats of Kindness, which saw donated sun and baseball hats of all sizes being hung in parks, local pools, and along fences in the East End neighbourhood for folks in need of a hat. The beauty of the Random Knits of Kindness campaign is that it gives neighbours the opportunity to take care of one another in a meaningful way. It encourages individuals who have yarn or needles they aren’t using to donate them, those who can knit to knit, and those who are able-bodied and know the community to place the knitted items out for neighbourhood families and folks to access. People are welcome to take a hat with no questions asked. Random Knits of Kindness items are tagged with a label that says “I am not lost!

If you need me, please take me. Dress in layers, put a hat on and keep your feet dry. Have a safe and healthy winter.” The campaign is also a way to engage community members. David and Karen Papson have donated several hats to Random Knits of Kindness this fall. Karen, age 74, taught herself to knit in 1973 and has been knitting on and off for years; David, age 66, learned to knit on a loom (using a circular loom instead of two needles to knit) early last year. Last year they were among a group of five friends who knit over 400 hats for children. “It keeps us busy and we like to give them away,” shares David. If you’d like to donate new knit items to the campaign, or have knitting needles, looms, or yarn that you aren’t using and would like to give it to knitters to make hats and mitts, please drop them off to NorWest Community Health Centres at 525 Simpson Street.

The Walleye

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54 The Walleye

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CityScene

GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET

A Taste of France Story by Wendy Wright, Photo by Marty Mascarin

hristine and Braden Pintar of A Taste of France have brought the delicate Parisian macaron to Thunder Bay Country Market. Their take on the famous French confection is a light and creamy treat for the senses. The lemon gives a satisfying pucker, the crème brulée has a hand-placed caramel crunch on top, and the subtle flavour of lavender comes straight from the bakers’ garden. Black currant, pistachio, strawberry, and chocolate orange round out the flavours at present. Every gluten-free cookie is handcrafted with the best natural ingredients sourced locally and from around the world. “The act of creation is beautiful and delicious,” says Christine. Originally from France, Christine is the creative director, while Braden handles the business side of things. Christine emigrated to Canada nearly 25 years ago after marrying Canadian Braden, whom she’d met while they were both visiting Russia. An international flight attendant, Christine saw how popular the macaron was by the sheer amount of them people were bringing back to Canada on her Paris trips. She decided to try to perfect her own and went to work with recipes from France, a variety of ingredients, a family background in

baking, and a lot of love. At first the cookies were for friends and family, and the business grew from there. Christine explains how French baking is very precise and akin to chemistry. “A chemistry experiment you get to eat at the end,” Braden adds with a smile. The Pintars are new to Thunder Bay, having recently relocated with their sons for post-secondary education. In southern Ontario, Christine worked for a commercial bakery part time after prompting from friends, who marveled at the macarons. Now in the north, the Thunder Bay Country Market has become their venue of choice and fits the business perfectly. After all, artisanal quality and lovely folks make our market what it is. Custom ordering is available, and Christine will work with you to come up with flavours and colours to match your special event. The flavours will change monthly at the market and there are a couple of holiday surprises in store that are not what you might think of when it comes to holiday baking. Visit their booth upstairs at the market and bring home A Taste of France. Find them at the market or visit ATasteOfFrance.net for more information.

Braden and Christine Pintar

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The Walleye

Fall in Love with Winter

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56 The Walleye

CityScene

Government-Issued Shopping the Ontario Cannabis Store By Justin Allec

long with the curious and the committed, I checked out the Ontario Cannabis Store website on October 17. It’s like other efficient government pages: plain text, white background, and links to health and legal information. The major difference is, of course, that its purpose is to sell marijuana. After a quick age verification, you’re shopping to your heart’s content (or the legal limit). Though this means anyone can peruse the site, you will need ID when your package arrives. The bulk of the menu at OCS.ca separates their 70 types of cannabis strains into the categories of sativa, indica, and hybrid. Each cannabis strain has a brief description of its strengths, THC/CBD percentages, scent, and terpenes. Some strains can be ordered pre-rolled, and there are also oils and capsules available. Most surprising is the large selection of paraphernalia, from basic rolling papers to UFO-shaped vaporizers. By the time I got around to shopping on October 19, many strains were sold out. The idea of being able to choose my strain (and my high) was attractive, and I wanted to try a few varieties with a range of THC and CBD levels. I found it frustrating that many of the higher-level CBD varieties were gone or only available in larger quantities, so I settled on three strains with varying THC levels in one-gram quantities. I checked

out using my credit card with a flat rate of five bucks for shipping. Then I waited. OCS.ca had warned me about delays due to the postal strike and demand, but it was five days before I received confirmation on my order, and another full week for shipping. Opening my package, I found three small boxes awash in warning labels. Inside those boxes were small plastic containers, similar to film canisters, also with warning labels. Seriously, bullets and rat poison have more attractive packaging. My sampling of Redecan’s God Bud was drier than tumbleweed, which made me think that the medical supplier had dipped into their reserves to meet OCS’s needs. God Bud is an indica strain and tastes like berries and pine. Overall my experience using OCS.ca left me slightly deflated. For now, OCS.ca is a bizarre mixture of clinically packaged cannabis and head shop paraphernalia. I don’t think anyone using the website was expecting the LCBO’s branding or selection, but in many places (illegal) cannabis retailers are already there. Maybe Ontario’s approach will change with the private storefront models. The shortages reported after legalization tell you that people are enthusiastic. The OCS is going to have to try to meet this new demand, and that means more than reluctantly supplying a product.

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CityScene

What’s Inside... a Chocolatier’s Kitchen? By Leah Morningstar

here are no Oompa Loompas running around ChocoLitts. Instead, there is one creative and dedicated artisanal chocolate maker named Rena Litt. In 2006, Litt was looking for something to do that would stretch her creativity—something fun and unique that wasn’t overdone. She learned about edible printing and started printing different designs onto small pieces of chocolate. Her friends and family were impressed and told others about her work.

Word spread and soon Litt was taking custom orders for goody bags and wedding favours. Printed bites of chocolate expanded to truffles in all sorts of delicious flavours and eventually large pieces of chocolate molded into different shapes. After a decade of growing her part-time chocolate-making business, Litt was exhausted. It was a life of working full-time as an executive assistant at her husband’s business, mothering four busy children, and then spending every spare moment

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(sometimes all night) filling chocolate orders. It wasn’t a sustainable way of life. Litt wanted to continue being a good mom but focus more on the chocolate. She and her husband discussed her stepping away from the executive assistant job and finding a way to really concentrate on chocolate. In 2016 Litt found a small space on Park Avenue and began making a name for herself as a bricks and mortar business owner. This summer, after two years with a

storefront, Litt decided to join forces with Trish McAlpine of Déjà Vu Consignment and the two of them moved to a shared location in the Bay and Algoma shopping district. The old location was nice but small. The new location has so much room for display and a spacious work station for creating and cooking. Using a Belgian Couverture of varying cocoa masses and flavours, all chocolate creations are made on site with some pretty impressive machinery, including an enrobing

“Champagne for my real friends and real pain for my sham friends” Tom Waits

CityScene

machine. This is literally a conveyor belt that pours a warm waterfall over anything that needs to be covered in chocolate. It’s so much easier than dipping each item individually! In the future, Litt hopes to continue providing Thunder Bay with a unique dessert and gift option. With the bigger location, there is certainly room for expansion! Litt hopes to include more vegan options soon and is interested in learning to roast her own cocoa beans. When asked about her favourite treat, Litt says, “Actually, after 12 years I don’t eat a lot of chocolate

anymore. But I do like unique and different things. And being able to print a unique message or picture onto chocolate and cookies and making it ‘yours’ is something I enjoy doing.” It’s time to start thinking about holiday gifts. ChocoLitts can create custom pieces for all the sweets lovers on your gift list. Handmade chocolate might seem like a luxury item, but very few people would turn down something so warm and inviting. And in the winter, a little bit of warmth goes a long way. For more information visit chocolitts.com.

The Walleye

Non-Fiction

CityScene

The Bookshelf Fresh Reads by Local Authors

very December The Walleye compiles a list of books published by local authors that year. And every year, we are happily surprised by the massive body of work produced in our region. This year is no exception. Here are 19 books that were published in the past 12 months that would make some great gift ideas for the bibliophile in your life.

Flegel, Monica, and Parkes, Christopher (editors) Cruel Children in Popular Texts and Cultures

Kortes-Miller, Dr. Kathy Talking About Death Won’t Kill You: The Essential Guide to End-ofLife Conversations

Beaulieu, Michel S., Ratz, David K., Tronrud, Thorold J., and Kirker, Jenna L. Thunder Bay and the First World War, 1914-1919

Panetta, Peter Punk the Journey of a Sixties Delinquent

Kozak, Rob Finding Fatherhood

Stevens, James R. Ten Generations Then an Artist: The Susan A. Ross Story

Fiction and Poetry

Skaarup, Daniel J. Success Philosophy: Standing on the Shoulders of Sleeping Giants

Eras, Rebecca A Treasured Past: A.C.A. Howe’s Adventures

Mores, Lanie Father of Contention

Dickson, H. Leighton Snow in the Year of the Dragon

Stewart, P.D. The Staff of Mordenren

Steves, James R. Black Auntie’s House of Ill Repute

Lees, Kyle Ski Ninjas Volume 2: This is the Best that I Could Do

Pawluk, Micah Above the Old Birch Trees

Robertson, Shannon More Campfire Stories from Northwestern Ontario

Kids/YA

Lovis, Larry R. Mapping Your Retirement Road

60 The Walleye

Holloway, Sue A World Worth Imagining

White, Donna Spirits, Graves and Stones: The Dance of a Child Soldier

Morriseau, Sean One of the Boys

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DAY SPA • TANNING • FASHION The Walleye

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This is Thunder Bay Interviews by Nancy Saunders, Photos by Laura Paxton This month, The Walleye asked you about your favourite holiday traditions.

Jaden: Growing up, my parents always appreciated their sleep, so Christmas morning

what they would do was leave us a little stocking—an extra stocking—stuffed with a toy or something to keep us occupied. So my brother and I woke up at like 4 am, and instead of going to wake them up we’d open the present really early and just play until they got up. And so that’s my favourite tradition. They do it for us still, when we’re actually home for Christmas. It’s not so much toys now.

Hudson, Juraj, Mira: I like setting up the Christmas tree. So our family is Slovakian, and we had a thing on the sixth of December called Mikulás, and that was the day we got our stockings. Every year on the sixth we’d come downstairs and our stockings would be full. It was kind of like a little warm-up to Christmas. We do a big Christmas brunch with all our friends, we do gingerbread houses, and it usually goes until five o’clock in the afternoon.

Alexandra: Family getting together baking cookies, spending time with the family, everyone bringing something to eat. Festivities.

Trueman: My mother liked to have a pagan-esque winter ritual that she would do on

the solstice—a solstice dinner on December 21, where she would have everyone over and have this big feast to celebrate the longest night of the year. She would get everyone to write down their intentions and light a candle, then you’d go outside and you’d burn the intention and release it into the “universe,” then take a handful of birdseed and throw it out to the universe also.

62 The Walleye

Patrick: For me, it’s an annual Christmas party at a friend’s house. All of our old high

school friends get together. We’ve been out of high school for almost twenty years now, and we all still get together every Christmas and have one big bash, so that’s a fun one.

CityScene

(L-R) Joe Berardi, Allyson Veneziano, Melody Macsemchuk, Michelle Jordan, and Jon Wynn

Spread the Warmth Coat Drive Enters Final Month By Pat Forrest

s the days get shorter and colder, the owners and staff of a Thunder Bay business want us all to think about spreading some much-needed warmth. More than a decade ago, the owners of Gear Up for Outdoors, Jon and Sandra Wynn, and their staff were surprised and saddened to learn that many in our community don’t even have the basics to endure the weather—not even a winter coat. With the support of some community partners, they launched the Spread the Warmth Coat Drive. Now in its 12th season and with their partners The Keg Steakhouse and Bar and Tbaytel again on board, Gear Up is aiming to gather as many coats as it can for clients of Shelter House, Grace Place, and Precious Bundles. “So many in our community are blessed by the donations of these winter coats and it’s never hard to find someone who really needs the warmth and protection that they offer. This generosity always leaves a lasting impression on the recipients,” says Jon Wynn. He adds that while the need is growing in the community, the

drive has so far been able to keep pace. Business like Grant Thornton, RBC, Canada BrokerLink, Push Fitness, Maintain Air/Porter, and Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. have been encouraging their employees, friends, and family to contribute, as has the management of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Increasingly, he says, school groups are taking the drive on as a project. In the region, members the North of Superior Healthcare Group collect donations and Courtesy Courier brings them to Thunder Bay. By early November, just under 300 coats for children and adults had been collected. With the drive slated to close on December 20, Wynn encourages everyone to look through their closets and bring as many clean, gently used winter coats and jackets as they can spare to Gear Up for Outdoors at 894 Alloy Place. Don’t forget to enter your name for a chance to win one of six $100 Keg gift cards. The draw will take place December 21, just in time for some holiday fun.

The Walleye

Shop Artfully. Gift Thoughtfully. Enjoy a Special Shopping Experience at your Thunder Bay Art Gallery.

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December 5 is International Day of the Volunteer We would like to recognize and thank all the senior volunteers that give countless hours at the 55 Plus Centre, West Arthur Community Centre and in our community.

If you would like more information about how you can join our volunteer team call 684-3277 today! www.thunderbay.ca/55plus Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre 700 River St. Thunder Bay, ON, P7A 3S6 www.thunderbay.ca/55plus

64 The Walleye

CityScene

The Vault on Red River

New Business Looks to Change Work in Thunder Bay Story by Kris Ketonen, Photos by @DanGarrityMedia

new co-working space in Thunder Bay aims to change how the city works. The Vault on Red River opened its doors in May. Inside, you’ll find much of what you’d expect in any regular office building: boardrooms, telecommunications suites, and a receptionist. But owner Scott McNab says the similarities end there—what’s different inside the Vault is the way those things are used. “I had an office at home, like everybody else who runs a small business,” McNab says. “It kept being interrupted by growing kids, and I wasn’t going to build another office or another space in my home just to accommodate more work. I was trying to get more work done out of home, so that dad wasn’t always busy.” The answer, McNab says, was a co-working space, which offers a number of services, scaling up from a corporate suite address and phone number. “If you need a place to sit down, put your laptop down, five, six, seven

hours a month, just to have a place to get out of the house, or you’re in from out of town and you just need a place to go to work?” he says. “Laptop down, here’s your wifi password. Everything else is à la carte. We’ve got printers and scanners and teleconference suites, all available by the page, by the sheet, by the hour.” Desks and offices are also available longer-term, McNab says, and the board room and other areas can be rented for functions, product launches, or meetings. Future plans include a coffee shop, a gym, a steam room, and a training room. “You can present yourself as a professional—not in your basement, not in your home office,” McNab says. “There’s actually some legitimacy to it. The concept of a co-working space, and having relationships with people who are in the same genre as you, the same place in business, is so helpful.” For more information, visit the Vault on Red River’s Facebook page.

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66 The Walleye

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CityScene

NuWave School of Hair Design

Setting the Standard for Excellence in Hair Care Across the Country By Michelle Kolobutin

orthwestern Ontario is home to many high-end hair salons and expert hair stylists. Chances are, your stylist was trained right here in Thunder Bay at the NuWave School of Hair Design. NuWave has trained hundreds of award-winning hair stylists who now own salons and even schools in cities across Canada, including Toronto, Calgary, Winnipeg, and cities along the East Coast. NuWave was opened in 1988 by Tony Minella, with his brothers Rocco and Vito Minella later joining him. Together they developed a hair school that groomed generations of hairstylists, including their sons and nephews. Decades later, the time has come for the next cohort of Minellas to carry on the legacy Tony, Rocco, and Vito created, and maintain the creative momentum of the school. Enter four cousins, Cosimo, Carmen, Adrian and Cosimo Minella—the new owners of NuWave. These cousins may be the new owners of the school, but they certainly aren’t new to the world of hair salons. “I’ve been in salons since I was six years old, handling curling

irons and helping with perms,” shares Cosmo Minella. “My mom used to drop me off at my dad’s salon every Saturday morning and I’d spend all day there.” The cousins have also participated and won dozens of hair show awards at the provincial, national, and international level. Most recently, Adrian participated in the World Hair Show in Paris. But what makes NuWave so successful? “The years of experience, I think,” says Cosimo. The school’s course is 50 weeks or 1500 hours in length. Students use a mixture of practical and written skills to learn the trade of hair styling during their studies, applying them to both mannequins and clients. The school also recently underwent a major renovation. Their mission: to “Transform students to be leaders in the beauty industry anywhere in the world.” For information about admissions, styling services, funding options (they offer OSAP) and how to apply to the NuWave School of Hair Design, please visit them at nuwaveschool.ca.

The The Walleye Walleye 6767

CityScene

Q&A

Six Questions with Mayor Mauro By Kris Ketonen

n October, the citizens of Thunder Bay elected a new city council. Among those elected was Bill Mauro, a former city councillor, MPP, and provincial minister who will serve as Thunder Bay’s mayor for the next four years. To get a sense of his priorities for the term, The Walleye came up with a series of questions for the city’s new mayor. Here are his answers. The Walleye: What do you personally hope to accomplish in your first 100 days in office? Bill Mauro: We’re going to be immediately into our budget session as a new group. I think within the first 100 days, it’s possible we’ll be close to completing that process. It might drag on; it might go on a little bit longer than the first 100 days, but that budget starts almost immediately for the new group, and I suppose that will be a goal that we all have to try and manage as a new group. It’s not the only priority, obviously, but it will be the the first priority that we have to deal with.

68 The Walleye

TW: What will your previous experience at the provincial level bring to your role as mayor? BM: I think that all political experience has relevance. Obviously, 15 years provincially, and I’ve got a string of contacts in southern Ontario that hopefully can provide some benefit to our community. I’ve had a number of years as a municipal councillor, as well, and I think I feel very comfortable in terms of my role as mayor trying to create a narrative for the community that makes people feel good about themselves, that people will begin to take more pride in our community, that provides some hope for an enhanced future. And hopefully my experience will help me to do that. TW: The provincial Liberals lost official party status in the last election. Are you concerned that may hinder your efforts to work with the province, given that you were a Liberal MPP and minister? BM: I don’t think it’s as much about Liberal and Conservative as

it is about what the priorities of the new provincial government will be. So, as the mayor, my advocacy now being on behalf of the city of Thunder Bay, I’ll be meeting with and talking to not only the provincial government, remember, but the federal government as well. And so, I have allies in the federal government, and so that can be helpful. The focus has been mostly on the provincial government. I said through the election, often, that I know that the City of Thunder Bay has received a lot of financial assistance over the last number of years, and my concern would be that if the priorities of the provincial government are to remove some of that ongoing financial assistance that flows to municipalities in Ontario, that’ll create a bigger challenge for not only Thunder Bay, but for all cities. So I think the issue is not Liberal-Conservative, it’s more about what the priorities of the new government become. And as they become apparent, we will see where our challenges and our opportunities lie. TW: Are you familiar with Canadaland’s Thunder Bay podcast? BM: No. TW: What do you think of Thunder Bay’s national image right now? BM: I’m angry about it. I’m frustrated by it. I think it’s inaccurate. I think it’s unfair, and in answer to your first question, as a mayor in my capacity now to be a spokesperson, not the only one but someone who will regularly be acting as a spokesperson for council and representing the city, it’s my hope to frame a narrative that people understand that

the challenges that Thunder Bay has are not unique to Thunder Bay, but exist in all other communities. And I am beyond frustrated with the reputation that we unfairly have garnered over the last number of years. You’re right, we do have that reputation. Again, it’s unfair, it’s inaccurate, and it’s my hope that I can start to change the sense and the perception of our community over the next four years. TW: What do you hope to do to change it? BM: I think we need to speak our truth and really not be afraid to say that the challenges that exist in Thunder Bay are not challenges that are unique to our city. There has been a heightened focus on Thunder Bay over the last number of years, and that has generated, to a large degree, this perception that has taken hold across the province, and maybe to some degree across the country. I told Steve Paikin on his program [The Agenda] that there have been to this point, in this calendar year in Toronto, almost 90 murders. But we don’t call Toronto the murder capital of Ontario or Canada. There is an entire Black Lives Matter movement in Toronto, owing to issues and occurrences and incidents in Toronto. And the former provincial government that I was part of created an entire anti-racism directorate, and we don’t refer to the City of Toronto as a racist city. And so, while the challenges are there and the challenges are real, it’s unfair that Thunder Bay has been left with this reputation. This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

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CityScene

The Westfort Renaissance is Coming Tontu Café-Boutique

Story and photos by Alex Franków

“C

offee and fashion. Why not?” says Seija Heiskanen, co-owner of Tontu Café-Boutique. Light jazz plays in the background— Dave Brubeck to be exact. The fragrance of freshly ground Rose N Crantz coffee and aromatic incense fill the room, and the scent is energizing and welcoming. The café-boutique, nestled in the Westfort Village, was born through opportunity, time, place, and need. Elfarrow Apparel, a beloved local ethically sourced and sustainable clothing line, was in need of a new home (managed by Heiskanen) and the Westfort location was available. Opportunity knocked, and Heiskanen and co-owner Layman Pascal answered. Tontu Café-Boutique was born. The word “tontu” is derived from the Scandinavian word for nature spirit, explains Pascal. “Tontu” is also associated with elves (which bring good fortune) from Scandinavian folklore. Heiskanen and Pascal articulate in rhythmic conversation. “To reiterate, Westfort…we feel really fortunate because we’re at this moment in time,” says Heiskanen. Pascal interjects, “It’s a good moment. It’s like a Westfort renaissance is coming. If we can encourage that, and be on the

cusp of that it would be great.” The convergence of Heiskanen and Pascal’s passions are evident throughout the space. Coloured fabrics and “snuggly” items drape windows and door frames. Stacks of intriguing books line shelves, and perfectly mismatched cozy furniture beckon coffee drinkers and shoppers to sit and relax. “Our hope is to bring very interesting, ethical, high quality and unique things to people and be part of the Westfort renaissance that a lot of people here are longing for,” says Pascal. Kama Natural Soaps, Elfarrow clothing, incense, and an incredible runway-styled change room balance the boutique side of the business. Locally roasted coffee and a variety of International House of Tea blends (including handcrafted Tontu blends), pair wonderfully with a delicious homemade mini persian in the café. The Westfort renaissance is coming. It begins with the beautiful pairing of coffee and fashion at Tontu Café-Boutique.

Tontu Café-Boutique

Seija Heiskanen and Layman Pascal

108 East Frederica Street tontuplanet@gmail.com

The The Walleye Walleye 7171

CityScene

(L-R top) Tracey McKinnon, Mel Legarde, Robyn Medicine, Sharon Johnson, Sheila Karasiewicz, Clara Quisses, and Linda Barkman. (L-R bottom) Robert Ostamas and Robert Gougeon

Indigenous Knowledge Centres

Offering the Missing Link in Canadian History By Lindsay Campbell

fter two years of much preparation, consulting, and co-ordinating, the Thunder Bay Public Library hosted the official grand opening of its new Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKC) on October 30. Since then, TBPL staff say all centres been well-received by the community and local stakeholders, from representatives of city council to

72 The Walleye

Fort William First Nation, and even the Thunder Bay Police. Robyn Medicine, TBPL’s Indigenous liaison, has played a key role in the IKC’s implementation since 2016 and says opening the centres has been a cathartic experience. “We’ve been meeting with our Indigenous Advisory Council (IAC) over the past two years to determine

what to put in these centres, so it’s really nice to finally be able share this resource with everyone,” she explains. TBPL’s IAC serves to guide and support the library’s ongoing decolonization and reconciliation efforts. This includes the creation of the IKC. As she consulted with the IAC, Medicine says that the feedback she

received from many Indigenous elders was that they didn’t use the library because they didn’t understand the system and how it was organized. That’s why each centre, one at every Thunder Bay library location (Brodie, Mary J.L. Black, County Park, and Waverley) incorporates 21 different topics, recommended by the IAC. All works are by Indigenous authors. Topics range from, but aren’t limited to: language learning, law, poetry, religion, fiction, First Peoples history, self-government, and social conditions. And while every centre varies in how it represents each topic, one notable feature for all is that they combine materials for all age groups and reading levels together. Angela Meady, the library’s director of collections, oversaw the completion of the IKCs. She says the existence of such centres are absolutely crucial to TBPL’s path forward. “It disrupts this narrative that we’ve had for so long, that this is Canada’s history,” she explains. “You really want to know Canada’s history, whether you’re Indigenous or non-Indigenous? You need to read these books.” Both Meady and Medicine say they’re looking forward to further developing each centre and hope to include more Ojibwe signage and art in each centre. But, for now, they say they hope the community will continue to enjoy the spaces. For more information on the Indigenous Knowledge Centres, the Indigenous Advisory Council or Thunder Bay Public Library, visit tbpl.ca.

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Downt Volksw 73

Music

TBShows.com presents ON THE SCENE

Metal with a Tinge of Unorthodoxy By Jimmy Wiggins, Photo by Keegan Richard Band: Femur Hometown: Thunder Bay Genre: Metal/hardcore/grindcore For fans of: Gaza, Birds in Row, Envy, Converge Online: @femurtheband Next show: Heavy Metal Xmas (December 7 at Black Pirates Pub)

f you’re a regular metal show-goer in Thunder Bay you’ve very likely heard (or heard of) Femur. This is not a band for the faint of heart. Their sound is dark, dirty, and abrasive with chaotic riffs, pounding bass lines, and bone-crunching beats all mixed together with truly brutal vocals. While they may not take influence directly from bands

74 The Walleye

like Okkultokrati or Daughters, the overall aesthetic and idea of these bands are what helped raise the beast that is Femur. Made up of Eric Niemi (bass/vocals), Jake Laakkonen (guitar/vocals), and Dylan Maxwell (drums), Femur are one of the heaviest and grittiest bands to come out of Thunder Bay in a long time. They mix a variety of metal subgenres to create a horrific nightmare for the senses. “We classify Femur’s sound as ‘pisscore’—an amalgamation of all of our favourite musical genres,” explains Niemi. “Metal, hardcore, post-hardcore, death metal, grindcore, etc. All that fun stuff.” All three guys are very active in the TBay music scene and have been

a part of more than a few music projects over the years. Niemi is one of the founding members of TBay metal band The Vilification and has also taken over playing bass for hardcore band Norris. Laakkonen plays guitar with alt-punk rock band Piggybank while Maxwell sits behind the drums for ambient alt-rock band Pedestrian Lifestyle. When the time came to find a name to match their sound, the band looked in part to one of their major musical influences for direction. “The band name Femur was proposed by Jake during the early stages of forming the band,” explains Niemi. “It is one part reference to the song by American Metalcore band Gaza, and one part a tribute to the biggest,

strongest, and longest bone there is.” Since the band’s beginning in 2015, Femur has been tearing the hearts out of their fans without hesitation. Over the last three years they have consistently been nominated for best and/or favourite metal band in Thunder Bay in several major media polls, taking home the title several times. They’ve been a regular act at the Tumblestone Music Festival and have opened for notable acts likes Archspire, Wake, Fuck The Facts, Ninjaspy, and The Brains. Recently, Femur has been recording their debut full-length album with Sean Skillen at Exit Music Studio. The band hopes to release the album at some point in 2019.

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The Walleye 75

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Music

The Nutcracker

Holiday Production Returns with Big Apple Savvy By Kyle Poluyko

he wonder and enchantment of the holiday season once again comes alive as the Minnesota Ballet returns to the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium to join the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra for their opulent production of The Nutcracker on December 21 and 22. The Nutcracker is an enduring tale that transports the audience to New York on Christmas Eve, where

young Clara receives a nutcracker doll to which she immediately takes a liking. In the middle of the night, Clara sneaks downstairs to see her beloved Nutcracker. Suddenly, a menacing horde of mice and their Mouse King appear—but they are no match for the Nutcracker and his cavalry of toy soldiers. The Nutcracker is revealed to be a prince and he whisks Clara through the colourful wonderment and

majesty of New York City. Trevor Hurtig of the Auditorium says, “We are really excited to bring The Nutcracker back this holiday season, after taking last year off so they could retool the show. We have a great partnership with the Minnesota Ballet and the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra that allows us to present this holiday tradition. Many people have contacted us to see if we would be bringing

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The Nutcracker back in 2018, so we are delighted to have been able to make this a reality.” See the Minnesota Ballet’s The Nutcracker during their two-show engagement December 21 and 22 at 7 pm. For more information visit tbca.com or call the box office at 684-4444.

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78 The Walleye

Music

Brandon Santini

Hanging on Every Note Review by Peter Jabs, Photos by Lois Nuttall

t’s the night of November 10 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 and once again I am politely asked to remove my hat. Everyone at my table introduces themselves and shakes hands as we sit down to drink. Friendly, outgoing people we are and soon our group of strangers is laughing. Locals Ted Hamill and Dave Jonasson as Brother JOHN open to a packed house, and lively renditions of “You Never Can Tell” and “Hey, Bo Diddley,” among others, are well received. Next, parachuted down from the stratosphere by the Thunder Bay Blues Society, Brandon Santini and his band have them hootin’ and hollerin’ in a standing ovation just for landing onstage (although by midnight, the half-filled house can’t muster enough applause to get an encore. “Grandkids,” a couple mutter, going down the stairs after the first set). Still, here are authentic topnotch blues artists morphing into

a bar band par excellence. Right off the top Santini lets rip a torrent of wailing and moaning on his harmonica to establish who owns who. Working mostly original material, these professionals mean business. Varying tempos and moods, holding back and letting go, the band rarely pauses between songs. Above the hubbub of the social scene, silver foxes leaning on their drinks in the shadow of the fluorescent lights are hanging on every note. What’s this: a drum solo. No fooling around here—Chad Wirl knows exactly what he is doing. He works the crowd like a yo-yo on a string. If Chuck Berry could play guitar like ringing a bell then Timo Arthur plays as though he was scratching an itch. And it works! The dance floor is rocking (or at least shuffling, or at very least digestion was aided). Brandon Santini and his band delivered the message of the blues and Thunder Bay was listening.

The The Walleye Walleye 7979

Music

BURNING TO THE SKY

Bob Dylan

More Blood, More Tracks

By Gord Ellis

s a long-time Bob Dylan fan, picking a favourite album is no easy task. Bob has had many distinct periods and so many voices, and has worked with a seemingly endless variety of bands and genres. How do you ignore Blonde on Blonde or Bringing It All Back Home or Slow Train Coming? What Bobcat can leave Highway 61 Revisited off the list? Or Desire? Ugh. It’s like picking favourite children. Yet when I want to introduce a music lover to the brilliance and jaw-dropping artistry of Bob Dylan, my album pick is always the same: Blood on the Tracks. Released in January of 1975, Blood on the Tracks ranks among the most perfectly realized albums of Dylan’s expansive career. While much of Dylan’s early work was filled with incredible characters, long storytelling, and some very fetching nonsense, this album was different. During the writing of Blood on the Tracks, Dylan and his wife Sara Lownds were separated,

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and heading for divorce. The writing, singing and performances heard on Blood on the Tracks are Dylan at his most exposed. The raw pain and regret “You’re a Big Girl Now” is tempered by the sweet forgiveness of “You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go” and “If You See Her Say Hello.” However, there is anger and bitterness too. The epic “Idiot Wind,” with its visions of dissolution, deception, and death, is one of the most harrowing songs in Dylan’s songbook. Yet as personal as the album is, Dylan creates what seems to be an alternate universe, one where songs can go from first- to third-person perspective, and the real is mixed with the imagined. The two most well-known songs on Blood on the Tracks, “Simple Twist of Fate” and “Tangled Up in Blue,” use this changing perspective very well. Their imagery is rich and varied and both are love stories, but are narrated in entirely different ways. In both cases, the lovers part. As Dylan writes in

“Tangled Up in Blue”: “We always did feel the same, we just saw it from a different point of view.” Musically, Blood on the Tracks is basic, and mostly acoustic-based. Dylan’s voice, harmonica, and guitar are at the forefront. And never has Bob Dylan the guitarist been more appreciated. The music has a melancholy edge, and even the most upbeat song, “Buckets of Rain,” has a twinge of musical sadness. The secret sauce here is Dylan’s guitar and tuning. He is in what is called an open D tuning, which basically means when you play the strings without any frets pressed you get a D chord. This is a tuning used mostly in blues and some country, and often for slide guitar. Yet Dylan created chords and drones with this tuning that sonically tie all the songs on Blood on the Tracks together. In the many years of concerts since, Dylan has never played these songs that way again. Just another weird Dylan thing. This past fall, Columbia

announced that the 14th installment of Dylan’s Bootleg Series would focus on Blood on the Tracks. It will feature not only the original album, but all the takes, false starts, and outtakes from the original sessions done in New York City. Dylan would famously re-record some of the songs in Minneapolis a few months later, with a different band and slightly angrier delivery. Some of those versions ended up on the final release, and the debate about which versions are better swirls on among the Dylan faithful. Although I’ve not yet heard the whole BOTT collection (and I plan to get the six CD deluxe edition), the teasers and pre-released tracks bode well. Hearing the stripped-down, acoustic version of “If you See Her Say Hello” that was released on YouTube in October made my arm hairs stand on end. Blood on the Tracks captured a time of both heartbreak and creative magic for Bob Dylan. It’s a must-have album.

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Music

Burial Etiquette The Highest of Lows By Justin Allec

f you were to ask Burial Etiquette about punk in 2018, they’d probably tell you that “Punk isn’t dead,” but then they’d add the caveat: “It isn’t even punk.” This local trio are pushing their own boundaries by working tirelessly, playing their goddamn hearts out, and, like many local acts, looking beyond the city’s limits. Jaccob Hanley, guitarist and sometimes singer, related an anecdote that sums up Burial Etiquette’s attitude. Attending a small music festival in Toronto last year, he found himself in conversation with some of his favorite bands. “It’s this attitude of being down to earth…you make friends and support the bands that are really pushing the idea of what punk music can be.” Honest effort and collaboration have guided Burial Etiquette since they formed in April 2017, and these values are on full display with the band’s latest self-titled EP. Burial Etiquette, released on November 14, is an intimate approach that makes great punk. A blend of harsh guitar swirls and ghostly, echoing rhythms, the EP presents the trio of Hanley, Ryan Despres (drums), and Trevor Rafferty (bass) at their screaming best. These five songs are by turns acoustically melancholic,

screechingly heartbreaking, and frantically catchy. Songs get necessarily dramatic because they have places to go—usually straight to your heart. Lead track “Empathy to Apathy” is a good example, as a simple picked guitar line quickly builds with crushing waves of layered screams and churning rhythms, all weaving over some propulsive drums until the only option is a devastating blowout that dies with a hush. The band knows how take advantage of what’s available. “Despres was in the film program at Confederation College so we had 24/7 access to a studio with highend recording equipment. We spent so much time comparing different microphones sounds and finding the right placement,” Hanley says about the labour which went into the new EP. By chance Hanley reached out to Will Killingsworth of emo legends Orchid to master the EP to an impressive standard, and distribution will happen via Emocat Records in Canada and Dasein Records overseas. Feedback and frailty, sadness and ritual—it’s in Burial Etiquette’s name, and in their music. For more info visit facebook.com/ BurialEtiquette.

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Music

The Record Box

Fresh Sounds from Local Musicians By Adrian Lysenko

rom heavy metal to folk-rock to synthpop, 2018 brought a lot of new music from many talented local musicians. Here are 28 albums (in no particular order) released during the last 12 months that would make a great gift idea. Shoot us a message if you have an album that we missed (or one coming out in the 2019). Enjoy, and support local music!

Stuart Rankin All Lies & Tall Tales

Zeddy Spring In A Cave

Collin Clowes Blackbird;

VHS Tales of Horrific Mayhem

Cold Lake Sun Memento Mori

Piggybank Snacks

Secret Baby Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a secret, baby

Visions of Doyle Live at Tumblestone 2017

A New Machine Hatefucked Into Existence

Zack Bright Voices

Drop Down Into The Cold Grey Dawn

Android 16 JOSH

Railgun Tension

The Honest Heart Collective Grief Rights

VHS The New Batch

Piggybank Piggybank EP

Breaking Chains Fear The Wolf

Breaking Chains Love The Wolf

Soapboxer Grief Cures

The Vilification - The World Owes You Nothing

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Sadness Prevails New World

Kutch Notionside

Page 38 Swingin’ from the Ceilin’

Skelle ARTFELT: THE VISION

Steve Dafoe Love is Love

Wayne Faulconer Hillbilly Blues Boutique

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Music

Unique Traditions A Celtic Family Christmas By Paula Marsh

uno Award-winning musicians Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy will be gracing the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium stage on December 8 with their Cape Breton-Celtic take on traditional Christmas. MacMaster and her husband, Leahy, are embarking on a journey of growth as musicians with their Celtic Family Christmas tour, and are bringing along their children to share in the experience. “Being the children of Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, they were genetically forced to play,” MacMaster jokes about her children. “We swore not to put our [first] child on stage and to let her blossom on her own, but by age three, she wanted to be on the stage. Then the next one wanted to be out on the stage, too.” Their children began by dancing to one song, but began to grow into their own artists, learning real dance steps, and fiddle music. MacMaster and Leahy have used the performances to teach their children valuable lessons such as responsibility, commitment, and ownership. “We told them to make a choice and stick to it,” MacMaster says of her children backing out of some shows. “And they would much rather be on the show. It became

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who they are, and they have a sense of ownership, pride, and reward.” Growth is an important part of being an artist to MacMaster, and to all those involved in the performance. The tour features an eclectic mix of artists coming together, including a new theatrical element that MacMaster and Leahy are very excited to share. “We have an actor coming on tour to present our music in a theatrical way, to show how the music came to this point,” says MacMaster. The actor, William Colgate, was performing as

Billy Bishop in a production of Billy Bishop Goes to War that the pair attended. The concept of having an actor on tour was something Leahy had talked about for years. He had been so impressed with Colgate’s performance that he tracked him down and made the offer. “He’s woven into our show. Integrated, not isolated,” MacMaster says. “He’s part of the core of our show.” With their mix of old friends, new friends, and family on tour, MacMaster and Leahy hope audiences will experience the beauty

and deeper meaning of Christmas. To MacMaster, Christmas is not about the thrills and colours of the season, but about a time of family, giving, and connecting with the human soul—a message she hopes to relay to audiences across Canada.

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TBSO Spotlight

Mélissa Biroun

Interim Conductor-In-Residence, TBSO Story by Kris Ketonen, Photo by Dariane Sanche Born: Montreal Instrument: Piano Age you started to study music: 4 How long have you been with TBSO: Since October 2018 What’s on personal playlist: Varied, including jazz, pop, indie, rock

élissa Biroun is relatively new to the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, taking over the role of interim conductor-in-residence in October. But despite her short time in Thunder Bay, it’s safe to say that she’s enjoying things “I’m having so much fun,” Biroun says. “The orchestra sounds amazing. The sound of Thunder Bay is very unique, I would say, and the musicians are all very very talented, very strong, and very welcoming.” As conductor-in-residence, Biroun has a number of responsibilities with the TBSO, including conducting a few concerts each season and assisting with rehearsals. She also, however, plays a big role in the

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TBSO’s educational outreach. “You transmit that passion for music that you have, and you get kids and teenagers to have an idea of what classical music is today, and what options you can do with a professional orchestra,” she says. “You need to have a lot of chemistry with teenagers, a lot of chemistry with kids, chemistry with the professional musicians, and have ideas.” Biroun’s love of orchestras is a long-standing one. She was first introduced to orchestral music—and the piano—at a very young age, when her parents, both fans of classical music, brought Biroun to a performance that included a pianist. She fell in love with the piano “from the first look,” and began learning to play. “I love the fact that you were able to make more than one sound at once,” she says. “Violins or flutes or trombone or trumpet, they can make one sound at a time, so when they play together it becomes one…for me, the piano sounds like orchestral music.”

Music

Zack Bright Readies New Album Genre-Jumping Voices to Launch at the End of December

Bright says. “The art of collaboration and the idea of community is something that’s really, really important to me, so I like the idea of trying to keep everything as local as possible.” Voices will officially release on December 28 at the Foundry, where Bright will perform with his band (Matt Simko, Joey Miller, and James

Van Teeffelen). And then, it’s on to the next, Bright says. “This is more of an experimental album,” he says. “The next album is going to be a little bit more concise. I think I’ve kind of found a sort of niche that I’d really, really like to explore.” For more info visit facebook.com/ iamzackbright

Story by Kris Ketonen, Photos by Shannon Lepere

hunder Bay musician Zack Bright isn’t tying himself down with his new album. The eight-track Voices will be released later this month. And listeners will find it’s quite the journey, traversing several genres, including pop, country, and rock. “It developed over a number of years,” Bright says. “I was demoing a whole bunch of material, and then, sooner or later, I started to realize that there wasn’t really a theme… I think that was kind of the glue for the whole album, in the sense that there is no theme.” Bright is no stranger to music, having played in a few bands over the years. He admits, however, it wasn’t always a goal of his. “My dad is a musician, my grandmother was a singer, but I didn’t want anything

to do with music when I was a kid,” Bright says. “My dad tried putting a guitar in my hand when I was about 10 years old, and I was more interested in the video games and that type of thing.” But that changed as Bright entered junior high. He found his interest in music growing, and began learning instruments, first drums, then guitar. Then, he began singing. “It was an addiction, more or less,” he says. “Once it started happening, it was full steam ahead.” When the time came to put Voices together, Bright called on some friends: Rob Benvegnu, aka La+ch, and Jean-Paul De Roover, who are both credited as producers. “I like surrounding myself with lots of different musicians, and they outclass me in all aspects of music,”

The The Walleye Walleye 8989

OfftheWall

Happy Xmas

REVIEWS

Play to Win

Eric Clapton

Striker

I went into this review with more than a little trepidation. I find most Christmas albums sappy and uninspired. Eric Clapton’s, however, is something to behold. Not only is it a wonderful Christmas album, it’s also a good blues album as well. Clapton gives us some straight-up rocking blues, and some touches of soul, reggae, and even electronic dance. There’s a good mix of traditional Christmas nuggets, along with some covers of lesser-known Christmas songs and even a Clapton original. The album’s production and mix are great, and Clapton’s vocals are clear and crisp. His guitar virtuosity is as good as ever, and he even did the artwork for the album cover. Not bad for a guy whose been at it for well over 50 years. Favourite songs include the bluesy “White Christmas” and the laidback rhythm and blues feel of “Home for the Holidays.” It’s the perfect album for a Christmas party or simply chilling with a glass of eggnog.

Two years ago, I panned Striker’s previous album for the offense of sounding too much like a Striker album. A self-titled affair, Striker was the band’s shortest release, and seemed a little too safe for their style of exuberant heavy metal. With the release of Play to Win, the Edmonton band’s sixth album, I’m ready for a little perspective. Striker and I both know their strengths and what they’re all about, so I can’t fault them for sticking to a—ahem— winning formula. Striker’s songs are almost saccharine, but they’re also incredibly catchy, with retrostyle heavy metal full of glittering vocal hooks and shredding guitar—the kind of songs that Dio made over and over. This is what’s attractive about Play to Win for me today—it’s heavy metal songs about heavy metal’s power and positivity. It’s pretty dark out there, and a bit of heavy metal magic, even if it’s familiar, is more than welcome.

- Gerald Graham

- Justin Allec

Memento Mori Cold Lake Sun

In just five tracks (four if you don’t count the 30-second intro), Thunder Bay’s own Cold Lake Sun’s debut EP Memento Mori showcases the band’s vast versatility. While opener “European Bloodlines” uses novelty keyboards and upbeat guitars to send its listeners in a more indie pop direction, “Bindweed” immediately subverts those expectations with its alt-country acoustic melodies. Meanwhile, closing track “Open Door” feels both musically and lyrically like a cheeky song you’d hear some campus band playing in a 90s teen movie. But despite the band’s knack for genre-bending, it’s the cathartic, desperate refrain and moody underlying synths on “Tell Me, Rachel” that show off their emotive abilities and really make this track Memento Mori’s pièce de résistance. For their debut effort, Cold Lake Sun has managed to avoid pigeonholing themselves and have opened up the gates for more experimentation to come.

In A Cave

Zeddy Springs

Zeddy Springs’ music certainly sets a new precedent for alternative sounds in Thunder Bay. They have used a unique mix of electric beats and ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) techniques to create their first EP, In A Cave. The EP is a collection of songs comprised of electric sounds fused with soft vocal tones to create an overall eclectic experience. For some music, ambiance is truly a necessity to gain a full appreciation for what has been created. If played in a suitable environment, and in front of the right audience, In A Cave could make for a good decompressing experience. Give Zeddy Springs’ new EP a listen, but keep in mind that it may not be for everyone. For listeners who want to ease into In A Cave, try “Love Love” first. - Savanah Tillberg

- Melanie Larson

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Waver

Royal Canoe On top of the fact that, coming from Winnipeg, they are practically our neighbours, Royal Canoe’s blend of live instruments and electronica gives many reasons to enjoy their work in general. Their latest album Waver, number six in their discography, definitely fits the bill of being just enough of the same for us to recognize the familiar but with enough change for us to feel something new. Unfortunately, I feel that it the only real difference between this album and any of their others is that it seems a bit more subdued and despondent. Otherwise, the rhythms and soundscapes drift through the same Royal Canoe circles as much of their other work. I don’t mean to make that sound negative, as I still like the album, but it just doesn’t sway too far from the same-old. “What’s Left in the River” and “77-76” would be among my top picks on the album, but if you are already a fan you should enjoy the album from beginning to end. - Jamie Varga

Home of the Brave Scott Carrier

I first heard one of Scott Carrier’s stories on the podcast This American Life, and since then I’ve been hooked Home of the Brave. I’ve yet to hear anybody like him—he has this calming, credible, almost monotone voice that has the ability to suck you into his world. And this is a world that seems to be on the edge—you might be interested in peeking over, but you fear falling, so you are happy to have him go there and describe it to you. He is honest, empathetic, smart, and dynamic, and it’s these qualities make for some really interesting stories. The topics of his episodes are wide-ranging, from the heartbreaking situation faced by Syrian refugees (he actually went to Greece and interviewed the refugees on the beach) to controversial topics like the current U.S. president (he tries to understand everyone’s point of view) to pure entertainment (“Stories of the Green River” is my favourite). In the spring Carrier declared his podcast on hiatus, but I’m hoping he’ll return soon, because we need more real podcasters who take us to the edge.

Hockey 365

Mike Commito

Sudbury’s hockey historian Mike Commito has scored big with his new book Hockey 365. A treasure for hockey aficionados, this book has 365 intriguing stories to cover each day of the calendar year. Commito captures one story per page, including facts, stats, and the human side of a unique hockey moment. Intriguing headlines such as August 11’s “The Reaper Returns” from 1998 or March 13’s gem, “Larry Kwong Gets the Call” from 1948 draw immediate reader interest. From the improbable Kenora Thistles Stanley Cup win on January 21,1907 to notable milestones reached by hockey stars past and present, the collection is rich reading. While some might mourn the lack of pictures, Hockey 365 is no dull skate for hockey fans. Just like a good goal scorer, it is the gift that keeps on giving…365 times!

Waiting for the Man Arjun Basu

Joe may or may not be going through a midlife crisis. His father is convinced that he is, but Joe begs to differ. Rather, he feels something is lacking in his life, in the very normalcy of its trajectory. Beyond that, he is starting to see himself from a distance—something he tells us from the very beginning. He has a feeling of floating, which he later identifies as the first sign that something is amiss. This feeling of detachment is passed on to the reader, who feels a distance from Joe and his story. Where in other novels this might result in loss of interest on the part of the reader, in this one it works in harmony with what is happening in our protagonist’s life and makes for a compelling read. - Ruth Hamlin-Douglas

- Paul Mickleburgh

- Tara George

The Walleye

Architecture

Trinity United Church

Story by Laurie Abthorpe, Photos by Adrian Lysenko

T Thunder Bay Public Library

he magnificent Late Gothic Revival-style stone church at the corner of Waverley Street and South Algoma Street has a very long history within our community—a history that begins well before the church we see today was even built. In 1871, when Prince Arthur’s Landing was home to just a few hundred residents, Reverend William Halstead, along with a number of community members, set forth to build the town’s first Protestant church. The

non-denominational church was to be called the “Church of All Faiths.” During construction two leading Methodist ministers of the day, Reverend Dr. Pushon and Reverend Alex Sutherland, arrived in Prince Arthur’s Landing after a particularly harrowing journey across Lake Superior to the Lakehead. Thankful to have arrived safely, they wished to demonstrate their gratitude by making a sizable donation to the church’s construction on the condition the church be named Providence Methodist Church.

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finials. Projecting from the tower is an extremely sharp hexagonal copper pinnacle-spire with crockets. A copper spirelet also rises from an octagonal louvered cupola found on the steeply pitched roof. Additional elements reflective of the Late Gothic Style include the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s large stained glass windows and Tudor arched openings. Trinity United Church was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act by the City of Thunder Bay in 1979. Laurie Abthorpe is the heritage researcher for the Heritage Advisory Committee, which advises City Council on the conservation of heritage buildings, sites and resources, and their integration into development. For more information on the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage resources, visit www.thunderbay.ca/en/city-hall/ history-heritage-and-records.aspx

Thunder Bay Public Library

The modest wood frame structure of Providence Methodist Church served as a place of worship for both Methodists and Presbyterians. The church also held school classes during 1874 in its dugout basement accessed by a trap door until a dedicated school building was completed in 1875. In 1892 the church was renamed The Methodist Church. By 1903, the congregation had grown considerably and discussions of a larger church building began. The current church site was to be retained so the original frame church was sold and moved, beginning a new existence as Hill School. The cornerstone of the new church was laid in October 1904. Just six months into construction it was discovered that the weight of the masonry was causing the building to shift. The solution was expensive; however, a member of the congregation donated the funds needed through the sale of their fruit farm in California. Taking over a year to complete at a cost estimated between $42,000 and $60,000, the church was completed in late 1905 and dedicated in January 1906. The new church was renamed Trinity Methodist Church in 1908 and became Trinity United Church when the United Church of Canada formed in 1925. Built of white rough-cut sandstone quarried from an island off Sibley Peninsula, this medieval English-inspired church was designed by architect Henry Langley. The square northeast tower of the church features very narrow windows with buttresses on each corner, capped with a pyramid-shaped

Architecture

The Walleye

Health

Healthy Holiday Eating Tips By Katherine Mayer, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

he holiday season often involves family, friends, and of course, food. Food is often the basis for tradition and while it brings people together, many struggle with overindulging with food during the holidays. Holly Freill, registered dietitian at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, gives us the scoop on helpful tips and tricks to follow when faced with endless holiday spreads. Holiday Events • Keep cravings in check. “If your stomach is already full when you’re presented with food, you

tend to make better choices. So eating a healthy snack on your way out the door might offset appetizers and second helpings,” suggests Freill. • Hydration is key. “If you’re mindful about drinking water, you are likely to have less room for alcoholic beverages,” says Freill. • Be buffet savvy. “Before you take a plate through the buffet line, peruse the options without a plate first,” explains Freill. “That way, you’ll know what your favourites are and which options you can live without.”

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• Bring a healthy option to potlucks. “Cheesy, creamy, starchy items are delicious, but are very high in calories,” states Freill. “If you bring a salad or vegetable-based dish, you can be certain that there will be a veggie-based option to help fill half your plate. • Keep your distance. “Avoid standing right beside the food and snack tables, as constant grazing can start to add up quickly,” suggests Freill. “If you are far enough away, you need to make an effort to go pick out what

you’d like and then take a break.” Family Holiday Health • Have a plan. “Take the opportunity to cook as a family. Having a pot of chili or vegetable-based soup on hand makes meals easy and is a great activity to help kids participate and learn about meal planning, prep and cooking.” • Keep active. “It’s nice to have a break from the children’s organized sports, but planning a group activity like tobogganing or snowshoeing gets you out of the house (and away from food), burns calories, and shakes cabin fever.” Healthy Hosting • Offer a variety of food. “Including fruits and vegetables at dinner, along with the traditional Christmas fixings, ensures that you and your friends get some greens to go with the high fat, high carbohydrate foods.” • Offer a variety of drinks. “Along with having alcoholic drinks, having mocktails and water available can help guests manage their alcohol intake,” says Freill. “Sometimes guests can feel like it’s rude to say no to alcoholic drinks, so don’t press if they pass up a cocktail.” • Leave salt to taste. “Some guests may not be fond of salty foods or be trying to limit their salt intake, so have it available if they’d like to add it themselves. Other trimmings such as dressing, cheese, and gravy can be left for guests to add to their plate too.” For more healthy eating tips, visit unlockfood.ca.

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THIS SEASONGIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC! GO TO

TBSO.CA/EVENTS FOR TICKETS TO THE WORLD’S GREATEST MUSIC

Last TBSO concert in 2018 calendar year is the “IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT” Winter concert Saturday, December 15 at the Auditorium. Don’t miss it! Fortunately, there are still 20 glorious events remaining in TBSO’s Seriously Great Season 58! Each event is a wonderful opportunity give someone a seriously great gift this holiday season! Check out the tbso.ca website, today. Be sure to check out Food for the Soul, another great gift idea. For information call 626.TBSO (8276). To see what’s next on the calendar...

GO TO HOT TICKETS !

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