FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 8 No. 11 MUSIC NOVEMBER FOOD 2017 CULTURE thewalleye.ca
Sounds of the City: Part VI Inside Thunder Bay's Music Scene
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GO BITTER NOT BIGGER P20
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OF MONSTERS AND MEN P 26
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A LEGACY OF BLUES P 63
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REMEMBERING TOM PETTY P 70
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Contents FEATURES
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CoverStory: Sounds of the City: Part VI ■ 8 Webby D & Grimmace the Butler ■ 9 Clay Breiland ■ 9 Phoebe The Feeb ■ 10 Femur ■ 10 Rogue ■ 11 Jen “The Bent” Metcalfe ■ 12 Spotlight on Singer Songwriters ■ 14 Pulling Back the Curtain ■ 16 Natasha Fisher ■ 17 Creative Bloodline
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FOOD
GREEN
■ 78 Wasted? HEALTH
WEATHER
■ 86 The Complexities of
THE ARTS
■ 32 Quentin Maki’s Kohesion ■ 33 Unkindness of Ravens ■ 34 Rossport Artisans’ Fair ■ 37 Despres Designs ■ 38 Art Drawn from
Improving Your Immunity
An
Parallel Experiences
Predicting the Coming Winter
■ 19 Drink of the Month ■ 44 This is Thunder Bay ■ 50 Stuff We Like ■ 58 Exploring our Neighbourhoods ■ 74 Off the Wall Reviews ■ 82 Tbaytel November EVENTS ■ 84 Music EVENTS ■ 85 LU Radio's Monthly Top 20 ■ 88 The Wall ■ 89 The Beat ■ 90 The Eye
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Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Editor Adrian Lysenko adrian@thewalleye.ca Associate Editor Amy Jones Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva
TheWalleye.ca
Jeff Heisholt
■ 76 A Legacy to its Citizens
■ 41 Creative Cliffs ■ 42 Hockey Dads Bring it Home ■ 45 Piercing the Shield ■ 47 Creating a Space for Lost Voices
Thunder Bay’s arts & culture alternative
■ 80 Stop the Sniffles by
CITYSCENE
the
■ 61 Paul Haas ■ 62 Catching Phelans ■ 63 A Legacy of Blues ■ 64 When the Smoke has Cleared ■ 66 The Angies are Memphis-Bound ■ 69 Baroque Brilliance ■ 70 Remembering Tom Petty ■ 73 No Slowing Down for
FILM&THEATRE
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MUSIC
ARCHITECTURE
Own Words ■ 28 Movies about Musicians ■ 31 Mom’s Gift
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Night Trivia ■ 53 Festive Beers and Cheers ■ 54 Spread the Warmth this Winter ■ 56 Remembering the Great War
■ 18 Common Deer ■ 20 Go Bitter Not Bigger ■ 21 Top Chef Returns ■ 22 Brew It Yourself ■ 25 The Commissary ■ 26 Of Monsters and Men ■ 27 Leonard Cohen: In His
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■ 49 The Foundry's Wednesday
Contributing Editor Rebekah Skochinski Copy Editors Amy Jones, Kirsti Salmi
Marketing & Sales Manager Meagan Griffin sales@thewalleye.ca Photographers Patrick Chondon, Bill Gross, Scott Hobbs, Chad Kirvan, Dave Koski, Marty Mascarin, Darren McChristie, Laura Paxton, Tyler Sklazeski Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D., Dave Koski, R.G.D. production@thewalleye.ca Ad Designer Dave Koski Miranda van den Berg
The Walleye is a free monthly publication distributed on racks throughout Thunder Bay and region. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission is strictly forbidden. Views expressed herein are those of the author exclusively. Copyright © 2017 by Superior Outdoors Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. Superior Outdoors Inc. 15C St. Paul Street, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4S4 Telephone (807) 344-3366; Fax (807) 623-5122 E-mail: info@thewalleye.ca
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From Our Twitter Feed
The Odd Month of November
“M
ade of wet boots and rain and shiny black ravens on chimney smoke lanes/November seems odd, you're my firing squad,” the legendary singer-songwriter Tom Waits wrote in his song “November.” I’m sure many readers share the same sentiment about the month as Mr. Waits. Yes it’s cold, dark, and dreary, but it’s also a great time to hunker down indoors, reflect, and explore your creative side. And if you’re like me, sunny summer days and even winter months with ample snow tend to pull you outdoors to put off that creative project (which sometimes happens to be an editor’s letter.) But with November there’s no excuse and with all this ruminating going on I would bet that many great songs have been written this time of year. So that’s why it’s the perfect month to present our new installment of Sounds of the City, focusing on our vibrant local music scene and the talent the city has produced. In our cover story, Kirsti Salmi sits down with singer/songwriters Arley Hughes, Tiina Flank, and Elle Kay to discuss their journey as musicians in Thunder Bay. Tiffany Jarva talks to father and son Damon and Michah
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Dowbak about their shared passion for music. Plus Kat Lyzun chats with Natasha Fisher, the 21-year-old Thunder Bay singersongwriter who is poised to make her mark on the Canadian scene. We also profile six musicians who, put simply, you have to hear, and Justin Allec gets a behind the scenes look at where the magic happens by exploring local jam spaces. This month also brings us Remembrance Day. Jesse Roberts writes about the first three years of World War I from a local perspective and for this month’s This is Thunder Bay, we ask residents what November 11 means to them. Also in this issue, Betty Carpick visits Thunder Bay’s reigning experts on curing and smoking meat at The Commissary and Marcia Arpin gets a sneak peek of Cambrian Players’ season opening production Mom’s Gift. And with November being a great month for reflection, we encourage our readers to reflect on their favourite things of Thunder Bay and vote in our annual Best of Thunder Bay Reader’s Survey.
- Adrian Lysenko
In Error
On page 27 of our October issue (Vol. 8 No.10) the play Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth was incorrectly identified as Only Children and Drunks Tell the Truth.
Featured Contributor Jason Wellwood Jason moved to Thunder Bay 13 years ago from southern Ontario looking for a community to become part of and bringing a lifelong love of music with him. Somehow he stumbled into a 12-year tenure with CILU (Lakehead University Radio) and a year ago became the owner of New Day Records and Accessories. Having found and been part of the vibrant arts and music community in the city and now the father of three little droids, Jason is happy to call Thunder Bay home. Check out Jason’s review of Metz new album Strange Peace on page 75.
On the Cover Sounds of the City: Part VI (L-R) Arley Hughes, Elle Kay, and Tiina Flank on the stage at The Foundry. Photo by Patrick Chondon
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theTOPfive
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TBSO Presents: Stray Cats and Mad Dogs November 3 & 4
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Artisans Northwest Art and Fine Craft Show November 11 & 12 Valhalla Inn
Now in its 42nd year, this annual event features over 60 different booths in four rooms for you to meet local artisans and find that perfect unique gift for everyone on your Christmas list. There will be a wide variety of arts and crafts, including paintings, dolls and teddy bears, woodworking, photography, jewelry, clothing for adults, children, and babies, pottery, soapstone carvings, quilting, handmade knives, leatherwork and beading, and much more. The show runs 10 am–5 pm on Saturday and 10 am–4 pm on Sunday, giving visitors plenty of time to see beautiful work our local artisans have spent all year creating. artisansnorthwest.ca
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PIGS – Canada’s Pink Floyd Tribute Band November 15 Crocks
If you’re a huge Pink Floyd fan, you’d probably give your pinky finger to travel back to the 1970s and see them perform in their heyday. We can’t give you that technology, but we can give you the next best thing: Canada’s Pink Floyd tribute band PIGS is coming to Crocks on November 15. PIGS was formed in 2008 in Victoria to recreate the look and sound of 1970s Pink Floyd, with a dedication to authenticity that goes right down to the cables. Expect to hear all the classics, as well as material that has rarely, if ever, been performed live by Pink Floyd—no time machine required. Tickets are $25 and available at Rainbow on Bay, Extreme Pizza on May St, and online. canadapinkfloyd.com
Winterer's Gathering November 17–19 North House Folk School
In our part of the world, winter is a way of life. And the North House Folk School’s Winterer’s Gathering—a multi-day educational event featuring winter-centric coursework, a winter tent camp, a gear swap, dancing, the Arctic Films Festival, and speakers—celebrates all that our northern culture and traditions have to offer. Learn about old world breads, share winter sports secrets, make your own slöjd, join in the Coldsnap Poetry Slam, learn how to communicate with animals with guest speaker Jon Turk, take in an outdoor film screening, swap some winter gear, and roast some meat on a stick over a bonfire. After all, winter is coming— you might as well embrace it. northhouse.org
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Craft Revival 7 – Downtown Takeover November 26
Various Locations Craft Revival is Thunder Bay’s most eclectic holiday market, featuring not only local artists and craftspeople, but also live performances including music, acro yoga, aerial silk, and— new this year—fire spinning and poi. Pick up a unique holiday gift from one of the many vendors, take in a performance or two, grab yourself a coffee or cocktail, catch up with friends, and enjoy an afternoon wandering through the Waterfront District. The event runs from 10 am‒5 pm, and venues include The Foundry, The Sovereign Room, Prime Gelato, Prince Arthur Hotel, Pneumaticity, Deja Vu Consignment, Sweet North Bakery, Madhouse, Red Lion Smokehouse, and new this year, Red River Trade Company, The Chanterelle, mars. clothing, and The Loop. thecraftrevivaltbay.com Chad Kirvan
A fresh reimagining of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s popular Cabaret series, Northern Lights blends the sounds of the symphony with guest artists from Thunder Bay’s incredibly vibrant and diverse musical community. The series kicks off this season with an evening of jazz and lively classics from the Martin Blanchet Quintet, a group famous around the city for its floating bass rhythms, riffing solos, and crowd-pleasing repertoire. Maestro Paul Haas will lead the orchestra and the quintet—which also features TBSO members Jean-François Breton and Kathlyn Stevens—through a hand-picked selection of pieces guaranteed to surprise and delight you. Be there to welcome back the series! Tickets are $38 for adults, $20 for students, and $10 for children. tbso.ca
Chad Kirvan
Italian Cultural Centre
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CoverStory
Sounds of the City: Part VI By Justin Allec, Adrian Lysenko, and Kirsti Salmi
Webby D & Grimmace the Butler What’s your style/genre? Classic hip-hop, but infused with compositions of funk, blues, and soul. Who’s in the band? Webby D, Grimmace The Butler (for live performances), and over the years have received beats and production from Phillip Larway (Toronto/ born in Thunder Bay)
I
s there anything more thrilling than reverb in your ribcage at a live show? A set so loud your lungs are raw screaming for an encore? Bars spit so quick you’ve got whiplash? DJ sets so lit the dance floor’s dripping with sweat? Folk melodies so sweet and lilting they leave you a little choked up? Yeah, we didn’t think so either. November’s the month The Walleye salutes our thriving music scene, and all the harbingers of harmony that keep it rolling with their ambition and tireless dedication. We’re grateful to the musicians who keep our eyes wide, ears full, and hearts open, and we’ve dedicated our entire month to prove it. Thanks for keeping it cranked to eleven, guys.
How long have you been around? I have been around the Thunder Bay music scene for 21 years and Grimmace and I will have performed together for 10 years this January. Favourite song you cover? The only song we ever covered was "The Choice is Yours" by BLVCK.SHEEP. Best song you’ve written? My personal favourite is a new song off our new album Integrity called "Love." It is a story of overcoming some loss of family and friends, as I endured a few unfortunate tragedies over the past three years, and was diagnosed with an illness. I composed the beat with live instruments and put my heart and soul into those lyrics on how I will overcome all these hardships. Grimmace's favourite is also a song off the new album and the song is called "The Empty Pockets Records Theme Song." If you could collaborate with any musician/band, living or dead, who would it be and why? I actually just got one off the bucket list and did a song with the
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legendary Rock (of Heltah Skeltah) that we just released, as he is seriously one of my all time favourites. But I also always wanted to work with RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan or the legendary Prince Paul, or trade bars with Del The Funky Homosapien. What would be your dream gig? Our dream gig would be to rock a show in front of a huge festival with over 20,000 people, something I have never got the chance to do. The bigger the crowd, the better we perform. What’s new? We released an album last May, Integrity, which is available at all digital music stores, or you can stream the album free at webbydmusic.com/integrity on our new label Empty Pockets Records. What’s the best thing about being part of the TBay music scene? The best part of being a part of our local music scene is sharing the stage with so many other talented artists. The talent in this city is incredible and deserves a heck of a lot more shine than it gets. The musicians in this town do it for the sheer passion and love of creating their music of choice and it overwhelms me to see so much drive and passion to mold their own sound and project it live to the masses. Contact: araynak81@gmail.com, facebook. com/webbydrap, facebook.com/ eprecords, or webbymusic.com.
CoverStory
Clay Breiland What’s your style/genre? I play in a lot of different styles, but they all stem from roots music. Blues, rock, reggae, country, folk, bluegrass, trad... blues music was my first love. How long have you been around? I've been playing for over 20 years. I played my first bar gig at maybe 14 years old, my first festival around 18. Favourite song you cover? Impossible question. I like the B-sides of the most popular artists. I like to cover a song people aren't sure if they've heard before, by an artist they've heard many times. Best song you’ve written? A question for my friends and fans—everyone has a different favourite. If you could collaborate with any musician/band, living or dead, who would it be and why? Another impossible question, but Elvis Costello excites me. He has a different approach to roots genres and is oozing with style. He's a fabulous song writer and very versatile. What would be your dream gig? One where everyone listens, the sound is dialled in, and people are moved. What’s new? Writing new songs, compiling recording equipment, dreaming. Chad Kirvan
What’s the best thing about being part of the TBay music scene? Lots of love. People aren't out to cut heads. There's a lot of mutual respect across genres and styles, and a lot of talent. Contact: facebook.com/clay.breiland
Phoebe The Feeb What’s your style/genre? A rock-filled sea with a dabble of progression and funk. Who’s in the band? Nathan Bortolon (guitar/vocals), Aaron Gee (drums), and Will Trembley (bass). How long have you been around? We have been writing for a couple years but played our first show October 2016 at Black Pirates Pub. Favourite song you cover? Toss up between “Run With Us” by Lisa Lougheed (The Raccoons theme song) or the Game of Thrones theme. Best song you’ve written? Beyond proud of the new material we are pumping out for our next album The Light that Brings the Dawn. So "Blue Dream" or "Sheath" from that. If you could collaborate with any musician/band, living or dead, who would it be and why? We have always wanted to work with an orchestra. A dream we have is to incorporate our songs with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra for our favorite annual event Brew & Beethoven. So if anyone reading could hook us up with the powers that be, let's make a dream come true! What would be your dream gig? Phoebe The Feeb playing with an orchestra to our friends and family.
Scott Hobbs
What’s new? Since we put out first EP at the start of the year, (located for free on facebook.com/phoebethefeeb) we have been getting tighter, playing shows, and writing material for our next EP. When we finish the second one, we are going to put out a cover album of our favorite pop songs by female artists. What’s the best thing about being part of the TBay music scene? A family away from your family. Contact: phoebethefeeb@gmail.com or facebook.com/ phoebethefeeb The Walleye
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Spun Creative
CoverStory
Femur
Rogue
What’s your style/genre? Post-hardcore/ grind/tr00 metalcore
What would be your dream gig? Summer in the Parks.
Who’s in the band? Eric Niemi (bass/ vocals), Dylan Maxwell (drums), and Jake Laakkonen (guitar/vocals.)
What’s new? As of right now, we are in the middle of recording our debut full-length album with Sean Skillen of Exit Music Studios (La Reese, Norris, The Auditor General, etc.), writing new tunes, and just hanging out. We hope to see the album come out either by the end of this year or beginning of next. We've got one new full song and a few new ideas outside of what will be on the debut, and this new material feels more focused, if anything. At the same time though, we could still write something very similar to our old stuff, or something completely of the wall. It'll always feel like Femur, though.
How long have you been around? The three of us starting playing together in the summer of 2014. Favourite song you cover? We’ve never covered a song in its entirety, but for a couple shows we threw in parts from Refused’s “Worms of the Senses/ Faculties of the Skull” into our set. That was pretty fun. Best song you’ve written? The last song we wrote for our debut album is called “Sex in Millimetres,” and it might be the one. It kind of has all the elements of our sound in one song, and most accurately reflects our writing style at this point. If you could collaborate with any musician/band, living or dead, who would it be and why? We’ve talked to our friends in Android 16 before about writing something together. Hopefully we do end up collaborating in the future, because they’re one of our favourite local bands.
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What’s the best thing about being part of the TBay music scene? The calibre of music that comes out of this city and the friends we’ve made through the scene. Contact info: facebook.com/ femurtheband/ and Instagram @ femurtheband
What’s your style/genre? I'm a dynamic DJ. My first love is hip-hop and turntablism (skratch music) but I play more trap, EDM, pop, urban, and dance these days.
What would be your dream gig? It would be a toss-up between an intense trap set at a festival of 10,000+ people or party rocking a Vegas nightclub.
How long have you been around? Let’s just say over 15 years, since the days when every venue had a pair of turntables in the booth.
What’s new? At the moment I have too many projects on the go. Aside from honing my skillset for a future Red Bull Threestyle round and some recordings, I have a few film projects I've been developing over the past couple years and just began construction on a studio for audio, video, and photography.
Favourite song you cover? I don't really have a favourite song. My faves change rapidly. Usually it’s a favourite sequence of song clips which at the moment would be “Party Up” (DMX), “Get Low/Turn Down For What” remix (Lil John), “Focus Moombahton” remix (Ariana Grande), and “Talk Dirty” (Jason Derulo). A verse and hook from these mixed together tightly gets a very hype response on the dance floor. If you could collaborate with any musician/band, living or dead, who would it be and why? An ancient tribal drummer from Africa would be great but since that's not likely I'd say recording and touring with Mix Master Mike (ISP and Beastie Boys). I think he could teach me to communicate with aliens.
What’s the best thing about being part of the TBay music scene? I have been a productive member of the Thunder Bay music scene for longer than most, both as an emcee and a DJ and I have to say the best part of this scene is that when the crowd is having a good time they put every crowd everywhere to shame. I’ve seen more support and hype at events here than I've seen at events anywhere. Thunder Bay, while tough to gain an audience, is one of the most supportive audiences once they get to know you. Contact: rogue807@gmail.com or facebook.com/roguedj
CoverStory
Jen “The Bent” Metcalfe What's your style /genre? Folk-n-roll… that's what I call it. I'm an acoustic guitar-wielding singersongwriter, and a child of the 70s. How long have you been around? I started playing guitar in the summer of 1990 and began performing at campus open stages and community events by 1991. Favourite song you cover? Wow, there are so many! Current favourite/newest cover on my solo set list is "Oh, What a Night" by the Four Seasons.
If you could collaborate with any musician/band, living or dead, who would it be and why? Indigo Girls. They've been exercising guitar prowess and incredible songwriting and harmonies for the entirety of my guitar-playing life. A friend introduced me to their music in my first year of university, and that was part of my motivation to learn guitar—to play their songs, which I still do in every set I perform to this day. What would be your dream gig? A summer of Canadian folk festival bookings. We have an amazing geography and country of diversity to discover. I love the listening energies and storytelling spaces that are created therein, which allow songwriters to reveal onion-layers of their lyrics and song generations.
Keegan Richard
Best song you've written? Well, I'm rather proud of all of my fleet, but the first one that comes to mind is one that has not yet been recorded, "Irish Autumn (Jen's Bent).” It is a delicate summary of my life-navigating tools of instinct and love, much like my radio show's intent.
Jen "The Bent" Metcalfe with Ashley Moreau on percussion
AVAILABLE SOON ONLY AT PROSPECTOR STEAK HOUSE
What's new? Performing solo, and I am loving it... I also perform with Ashley Moreau as a duo I've dubbed Bentash, and of course with my pal, Lena Gray (and a regular stream of other TBay talents) as Outside the Lines. What's the best thing about being part of the TBay music scene? There's a growing list of venues to be able to perform at with some degree of regularity, with a cool spectrum of vibes—pubs, restaurants, events, festivals, private functions. We've got it all, and our audiences rock my folkin' world all over town! Contact: bent@luradio.ca
Let us always remember the sacrifices given by so many on our behalf
Bill Mauro, MPP
Thunder Bay-Atikokan 240 South Syndicate Avenue, Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1C8 T: 807-623-9237 | bmauro.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org The Walleye
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CoverStory
Spotlight on Singer-Songwriters Music Lessons from Elle Kay, Tiina Flank, and Arley Hughes Story by Kirsti Salmi, Photos by Patrick Chondon
(L-R) Arley Hughes, Elle Kay, and Tiina Flank
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ou’d have to be living under a sizeable rock not to notice that Thunder Bay’s cultural scene has exploded in the last decade. While there’s plenty of artistic expression flooding city streets and filling urban spaces, nowhere is the arts scene more vibrant than in the sounds spilling from our stages. If you’re still hiding
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unconvinced under Sleepy G, some of our best singer-songwriters have your wake up call. On a blissful autumn day, Elle Kay sits bolt upright next to me as waves lap gently at the marina docks. She’s so excited to talk about Thunder Bay’s music scene that she trips over words in her rush to sing the
city’s praises. “I could talk for five hours about how I think Thunder Bay is the best city,” she says. “There’s such a sense of togetherness in the arts scene. It’s a huge honour to be a part of something that’s so positive and welcoming.” It’s big praise from someone not native to Superior’s shores.
Originally from Toronto, Kay moved to Thunder Bay after studying fine arts at Ontario College of Art and Design. Largely self-taught, the keyboardist confesses that she spurned formal piano instruction in favour of playing by ear. Kay spent her childhood developing tunes gradually by studying song structure on her
favourite albums. “I realized pretty early music was a great mode of expression for me. It was a form of therapeutic escapism. I didn’t even care if anyone heard it. I just needed to get it out.” The urge to create is overwhelming for creatives, but Kay insists it was moving to Thunder
CoverStory Bay that compelled her to perform. Earning her chops as a solo act and one half of Engine House, Kay now gigs regularly, is heavily involved with Tumblestone, and has recorded two albums with Nix Records (solo venture Fools Gold and recent Engine House release EH). Kay is encouraging to budding musicians on the precipice of putting themselves out there. “It’s so freeing to create here. If you can’t stop thinking about songwriting or performing, know that you can make that happen. We’ve got such a great scene, so it’s just a matter of time for you.” While Kay took time before performing, Tiina Flank felt the urge from an early age. Over the hiss and spit of espresso machine at Calico Coffeehouse, Flank recalls singing songs at three years old for her very large, very musical family just because she wanted to make them smile. She started composing song lyrics in a journal in her teens. “Music is a place to be vulnerable, where we can be versions of ourselves we don’t have the courage to be in our everyday lives,” she says. “It’s empowering to take on parts of yourself, and the world, that are difficult to digest. Music lets us deal with that.” Anyone looking to become a performer can take a page from Flank’s book: take risks in order to grow. Flank moved to Toronto after high school to become a performer, and rushed herself to learn the guitar to accommodate her wellspring of songs, writing originals before learning covers. After five years in Toronto, Flank headed west with her guitar and a bag of clothes to busk in Vancouver. It was there that she learned the rigors of pursuing a musical career. “Exploring other cities gave me perspective. You understand a lot more about yourself when you’re uncomfortable, when things aren’t ideal. It prepares you a lot for performing, and for life.” After 10 years away, Flank returned to Thunder Bay to be
closer to family—all of whom kept insisting she’d make a great addition to the flourishing local arts scene. “I can’t believe how much it’s changed,” she says. “It has to be seen to be believed.” She’s embraced her role in it as the new manager of LU Radio, and as a regular performer at The Foundry. Most importantly, Flank isn’t rushing anymore; as she settles into a new routine, she hopes to record and tour in due time.“I’m incredibly grateful to the Thunder Bay music scene. This community always reaches out and helps me feel continuously connected. I can’t say enough great things about all the artists and entrepreneurs keeping it going—it’s so healthy.” Arley Hughes agrees. In her sun-drenched home studio, I ask how she feels about local music. “We...” she takes a deep inhale and lets it out, one hand pressed to her heart, “are soooo lucky. It was a bit dead for a while there, but there’s been a revolution of creativity and if we can support it and eat it up, we’re a force to be reckoned with.” Hughes herself is a force to be reckoned with. After releasing her debut Parts of Me with Backlanes Audio last spring, she has been on a roll: she toured the album out west as far as Fernie, B.C., and recently won a Thunder Bay Blues Society contest which gained her entry to the International Blues Competition (IBC) in Memphis, TN.
other a blues album which she hopes to release next spring. She chose to give up teaching this past year to focus on her own music, an intense decision she says put her career into overdrive. “I got quiet for a few days and then turned to my husband and said, “It’s time.” And everything lined up: recording, album art, release, launch party, tour, IBC. I am so, so ready for Memphis.” You can support her journey by attending her fundraiser on December 5 at the Branch 5 Legion. To an outsider, it looks as though Hughes’ good fortune is abrupt, but she’s quick to remind that a million tiny steps make up the path to success. When I ask for her advice to other musicians, she beams. “Just do it, no matter what. In five, ten years, if you keep making steps, you’ll be a little further ahead than you were. Finding a community to feel supported to take those steps is important. The smallest steps are the most important ones, and this is a great place to take them.” Keep up with Elle Kay at facebook.com/ElleKayMusic and on YouTube as ElleKayCanada. Tiina Flank can be found at at facebook.com/tiina.flank. For Arley Hughes news, visit arleyhughes.com or search Arley Hughes on YouTube.
It won’t be Hughes’ first time at the IBC (she played in 2015 with her band Loose Cannon), but Hughes’ whole life has been leading up to her solo venture there. “By the time I could sing, I was singing nonstop,” she laughs. Like Kay, Hughes had some formal musical instruction but didn’t enjoy theory. Despite that, she completed music and education degrees at Lakehead and taught guitar, piano, and vocals after graduating. In her second year of university, she started writing songs—so many that she amassed two albums worth of music, one of which became Parts of Me and the The Walleye
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CoverStory
Pulling Back the Curtain
Thunder Bay Jam Spaces By Justin Allec
A
nyone listening knows that the music starts somewhere else. That drum beat, those vocals, that guitar solo—that music came alive through practice and talent, but also because the musician had a place to work. We talked to four Thunder Bay groups about their jam spaces to find out how the creative process really works, that practice doesn’t always make perfect, and sometimes, all you really need is a great couch.
Forever Dead
Wax Philosophic
orever Dead has been around forever. Chelsea rocks the vox, and George is on the bass and back-ups. Jesse does the guitar-box and the harmonies, Tyler brakes sticks and smashes skins.
ax Philosophic is Derek DeSa (aka D-Cyphur), emcee, Jarret Schilke (aka Reach), emcee, and Bryan Johnston (aka Jenero), producer/DJ, and we’ve been together for nearly 18 years. Since we’ve sporadically lived apart from one another for nearly that entire time, we mostly just joke about practicing.
F
Our space is in the basement of a house at the end of a dead-end street, so it’s awesome to have a place where people can’t complain about the racket. Of course you need a fridge for beer and a stove for making tasty snacks like nachos, but the thing that’s really a necessity is having a nice clean shitter— nothing beats the shimmer of clean porcelain. The worst thing about our space is that there is only one light bulb swinging from an extension cord… and the old carpet we have hanging on the walls and ceiling is getting kind of scummy. The ants weren't too bad, but
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things have gotten sketchy since Bitey came around. Sometimes we come up with stuff while jamming and it turns into a song. We have probably written about 200 songs in the jam space but we can only remember about eight or 10 of them. For the most part the songs and lyrics are written and then brought to rehearsal to be tweaked. We really spend a lot of time coming up with ideas for restaurants and food. Thinking big, some vocal monitors would be the bee’s knees… for all these years Chelsea has had to scream her lungs out just to be heard. No wonder she can wail. “It ain’t much, but it’s better than…” … are you saying our jam space ain’t much?
W
The best thing about our current space is that we can record all of the separate vocals over a beat and then listen to it immediately for critiquing. This was something we didn’t have in our infancy and is a huge benefit now. The worst thing about our space is the location. Not the location of the studio itself, but it would be ideal if it could manifest itself in two different locations at the same time. We just need a
holodeck or something Star Trek-ian in order to accomplish this. Our dream jam space would be bigger, with separate booths for live instruments and other vocalists. Also, Jenero would kill for a space that could fit a full drum set that he could play while we freestyled… he’d love to be able to sample his own drums instead of using a drum machine. Our space is used as a final location for our music to be immortalized through recording after a refining process off-site. In other words, we strain the garbage and make a half-assed attempt to purify some semblance of a final product. “It ain’t much, but it’s better than…” …my parents’ house.
Lana Pribic
Shannon Lepere
CoverStory
Jean-Paul De Roover
M
y band is Jean-Paul De Roover, and I do everything—guitar, vocals, percussion, electronics—and have performed solo as a one-man show since 2006. Because I perform solo, I often do most of my rehearsals mentally, and work through song structures in my head before moving into Blueprints, my studio/ rehearsal space, to practice there. The best thing about my jam space is the fact that it’s in my house, but that’s also the worst thing about it. Necessities include a nice couch and coffee table, and I have several pieces of art from local/national artists whose work I’ve collected over the years, as
well as pieces I’ve commissioned as artwork for album covers, t-shirts, etc. Additionally, both rooms in the studio have large prints of photos taken by my wife, Shannon Lepere, from our many trips and tours around the world. Blueprints is both a creative space for my own personal projects, as well as a commercial facility offering recording, (pre- and post-) production, and composition services for both the music and film industries. Everything happens here and it’s entirely business. “It ain’t much, but it’s better than…” …what I used to have.
Bay Street Bastards
T
he Bay Street Bastards are a sixpiece Celtic punk band: Kevin Cernjul and Chris Barstow handle guitar/banjo/vocals, Justin Burla plays guitar/mandolin/vocals, Riley Cummine plays guitar/fiddle/vocals, Richie Sitarski plays accordion, Ryan Redemption plays bass, and Graeme Todd does drums. We’ve been a band for about five years, but this unit has been together for about three years. Coordinating six people’s schedules to jam can be a bit difficult, but we try our best to practice at least twice a week. If a few of us can’t make it the rest just end up going for drinks at The Foundry instead. I think you’d have a hard time guessing any of us were friends with each other… but a love of booze and Celtic music brought us all
together and I think that’s pretty cool. The best thing about our jam space is its size and having access to a loading bay/freight elevator. Nothing beats rolling all your gear out of the space in one shot without having to deal with stairs. Our jam space is for rehearsals and hangouts. I’d say it’s a 50/50 split between what’s written together in the space versus what’s written on our own time. Lyric-wise, a majority of our songs are written on napkins and notebooks over a few drinks. Usually one of us will have a concept for what we want a song to be about, and then we’ll all sit down together and hammer ideas out until it all comes together. “It ain’t much, but it’s better than…” … Keskus.
The Walleye
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CoverStory
Natasha Fisher Finding Herself Away from Home By Kat Lyzun
S
he has thousands of YouTube subscribers, two killer singles, and she’s about to drop her first album. At 21, singersongwriter Natasha Fisher is poised to make her mark on the Canadian music scene. Fisher describes her sound as Aboriginal-influenced electronic pop R&B—a fitting blend of genres for the woman who captured international attention for her acoustic mash-ups of artists like Drake, Ginuwine, Fetty Wap, and Future. Her top video has over 200,000 views. Although she has been singing and performing most of her life, she says it was nerve-wracking putting her first video up. The risk paid off, and she’s so glad she had the courage to do it. Not only did it lead to a management offer, but also gave her the confidence to leave home and take her career to the next level. That meant leaving home and family, and it wasn’t easy. “When I first moved to Toronto there was a lot of loneliness. I adored growing up in Thunder Bay, and I love having that small town girl inside of me. But coming here, it’s so intense. I had no family or close friends around.” Fisher took those emotions and shaped
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them into her first album, Her, which will be released later this fall. “[The album] is about where I am in my life, and moving from a small town to Toronto—almost like a relationship breakup,” she says. “It’s a bit about finding yourself somewhere else.” This summer, Fisher returned home to debut her first single “Lie to Me” on stage at National Aboriginal Day. She also collaborated with Spun Creative and Wikwemikong First Nation hoop dancer Nimkii on a gorgeous video for the track, shot against the natural beauty of Thunder Bay and Mount McKay. “It was my first professional video, and I was definitely nervous,” she says. “Filming in my hometown with people I trust was huge for me. I’m super happy with the way it turned out.” For Fisher, incorporating Aboriginal music and dance into her work is an integral part of who she wants to be as an artist. “I want to show the world how beautiful our culture is. I want to bring it more mainstream. You can definitely hear that influence on my album,” she says. She draws influence and inspiration from her cousin Classic Roots and electronic music masters A Tribe Called Red, and credits her dad for introducing her to solid classic rock like the
You can find Natasha Fisher’s music on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music and other streaming services. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @natashafisher_
Beatles and Supertramp at a young age. As she grew older she discovered hip-hop and R&B, and she feels that she brings pieces of it all to her own sound. With her music, Fisher is also passionate about being a mentor to northern youth. Since she was 15, Fisher has joined one of her mentors, comedian Ron Kanutski, and others in visiting schools and First Nation communities across the
Northwest, encouraging youth to keep positive and keep moving forward. “I feel like just by being a positive person, it helps to show others what’s possible,” she says. “Perfect your craft, and work harder than anyone else is working because there are so many people racing for that same goal. But also let other people motivate you. At times I’ve felt defeated, but you’ve got to have faith.”
CoverStory “Creating art makes me happy and gives me a sense of self,” says Michah. “It’s the way people connect,” says Damon. “You don’t have to speak the same language to enjoy music. Music really unites people and draws people together.”
Estella Howard
In 2011, Michah realized he had to leave Thunder Bay to pursue his musical goals. “And pursuing my dream was the impetus for Damon to pursue his dream,” he says.
(L-R) Damon, Joshua, John, and Michah Damon
Creative Bloodline Damon and Michah Dowbak By Tiffany Jarva
T
he late afternoon autumn light dances across drawings on a worktable at the Kleewyck Glass art studio of musician Damon Dowbak, who is currently working on a large-scale, super striking stained glass piece for St. Patrick High School. Damon is both a talented visual artist and an eclectic musician, especially known for his kick-ass jazz/reggae/ funk/genre-bending mandolin playing. Toronto-based Michah Dowbak, Damon’s son, is accomplished at creating his own electric elements, playing synth, samplers, and percussion. He’s part of the musical collective Sideways, along with La+ch, Shan Vincent de Paul, and Coleman Hell. “My early memories of music are of Dad playing his mandolin around the house and how complex and interesting it was,” says Michah. “I started playing violin at around age four or five. Dad would often bust out the guitars and mandolin at kitchen parties.” Damon and Michah reminisce easily about the whole family coming together to play all kinds of music. “Dad always had eclectic tastes—lots of jazz, lots of reggae. He introduced me to Herbie Hancock, Talking Heads, and The Headhunters. And Björk. We were a big Björk household. My life was surrounded by music.” In addition to violin, Michah picked up the cello for a while and attended
Institut Suzuki Montréal for summer school. In his teenage years, things shifted, and he became drawn to DJ music like Kid Koala and “straight up scratching,” at which point he told his dad he wanted to get some turntables. He is quick to say that Beck is a big influence on his music. Michah works full-time doing music with Sideways, helping with production, stage design, album art, and more. Like his dad, he too is a visual artist.
It’s so true. When listening to Damon and his fellow musicians (this night it’s Mario, Martin, Dino, and Ian) it’s easy to get lost in the long, improvised jazz jams— you’re not entirely sure if you’re at Jazz Fest Montréal, a club in Chicago, or listening to world class musicians in New Orleans. “It’s an ethereal epitome of improv on that stage right now,” says Differ. Music continues to be at the forefront of both Michah’s and Damon’s lives.
Damon totally agrees: “I was a sideman for a lot of my life.” When Michah left, Damon started The Dowbak Trio. When Michah comes home, he tries to play turntables for his dad. When asked if they will work on a project together Damon mentions the challenge of not being in the same city. “So much of creating music is in the moment of actually being in the same room, playing. There is definitely a push to record something together at some point.” Michah agrees: “It’s a dream of mine to complete a job with my dad.” Damon often plays Jazzy Thursday Nights at The Foundry. His next show is November 16. Michah’s Sideways collective is currently working on their next project. Follow his music and art projects on Instagram @mad.dog.jones.
Music runs deep in their family. Damon’s other son Josh also plays the violin, and his wife Estella Howard ran coffee houses in the 70s featuring live music. Both Damon and Estella came from musical families: hers included a lot of east coast kitchen parties and banjo playing and his infused with a lot of Ukrainian music, dance, and art. “There’s a lot of talent in that family,” says Flamenco Caravan drummer Jim Differ, while Damon flies on the mandolin during a performance at The Foundry’s Thursday Jazz Night. “Damon has a real talent of bringing excellent musicians together. This is the real thing: five musicians who are at the top of their game. To be able to pull off this kind of improvisational jazz you have to really know what you’re doing. This is beautiful stuff.” The Walleye
17
Food
Deer Stew for Your Dears serves 8 – 10 hungry dears
2 Tbsp olive oil
Common Deer By Chef Rachel Globensky
2 lb venison stew meat, cubed 3 large onions, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 bay leaves 1 tsp dried oregano 5 cup water or beef stock 1 cup red wine 1 lb carrots, diced 4 stalks celery, diced
I
grew up on a hobby farm, where my parents raised their own beef, chicken, and pork. Aside from my stepfather shooting a few grouse as we walked around the gravel pit on our property, we weren’t really a hunting family. My brother Dan grew up an avid outdoorsman; fishing is his main
raison d'être, but he’s also recently started deer hunting. He and his friends have spent many chilly fall days shivering and waiting patiently in their tree stands for dinner to walk by. Usually the deer cooperate, everyone's freezers get filled, and we whip up a big pot of this stew to celebrate!
5 medium potatoes, peeled & diced 1 medium turnip, diced *optional, but good 1/3 cup all-purpose flour `dissolved in 1 cup cold water 1 Tbsp salt 1 tsp black pepper
Half sport. Half leisure. All family.
It’s Here. The 2018 Atlas has arrived. Go big. And then go home. With the all-new 7-passenger Atlas, we thought bigger than we ever thought before. So feel free to load it up. It’s already packed with some of our biggest ideas. Downtown Volkswagen 591 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay, 807-344-9700, www.downtownvw.com * “Volkswagen” and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. “Atlas” is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. © 2017 Volkswagen Canada.
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The Walleye
Preheat oven to 300℉. On the stovetop, over medium heat, heat oil in Dutch oven, and brown deer meat. Add in onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, oregano, water/stock, and wine. Bring to a boil, scraping up all the brown bits that have stuck to the bottom during meat browning. Stir well, cover, and put in the oven, stirring every 30 minutes or so. Keep an eye on it, and when the deer meat is tender, add the veggies.
Stir in carrots, celery, potatoes, and turnip (if you’re using it.) Add in flour/water mixture. Cover, and return to the oven for about an hour, or until the veggies are tender. Stew should be perfectly thick.
Taste the stew, and add salt and pepper, as needed. Serve with crusty bread, slathered in butter.
Food
Drink of the Month
Firecracker
A DONE-RITE
WINTERVENTION
Black Pirates Pub
Story by Rebekah Skochinski, Photo by Adrian Lysenko
THINK ALL-SEASON TIRES PERFORM THE SAME AS WINTER TIRES? THEY DON’T.
GET CONTROL MARK DID.
November is not everyone’s favourite month. Things can seem a bit dreary once the trees have shed their leaves. To brighten up your outlook on the whole situation, Black Pirates Pub has one firecracker of a drink on their new beer and liquor cocktail menu. It’s like they can read our minds! For the Firecracker, BPP takes a red lager (like a Rickard’s Red, let's say) and they add cinnamon whisky for some spice and cherry whisky for some sweet. It’s then topped with 7-Up and soda for extra fizz, and a couple of cherries just for fun. This combination will not only whet your whistle, it will also warm the cockles of your damp November heart. Available in regular or Pirate-sized, we’ll give you no guesses (um, there’s a picture) on what size we went for. Three cheers for a cocktail with beer!
Black Pirates Pub 215 Red River Road 285-0152
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The Walleye
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Food
Go Bitter Not Bigger By Jeannie Dubois, Certified Sommelier
B
itters—such an inane yet essential part of many of our most beloved cocktail recipes today—started out hundreds of years ago as the wares of quacks and pharmacognostics. Peddled as tonics to cure all ailments of the stomach, bitters were essentially alcohol with extracts mixed with water, the alcohol keeping the botanicals in solution. However, even without the
For a straight dose of digestif:
Unicum Bitters from Hungary LCBO No. 364851 40% ABV $25.45 for 500ml
lab-colluded know-how of today, these bitters were quite efficacious as both a preventative and retroactive measure for anything from seasickness to indigestion. Utilizing a wide range of herbs, fruit, barks, and roots—including orange peel, cinchona (quinine), gentian, and cassia (cinnamon)—bitters were used for centuries from the apothecary to the world-marauding navy to keep both the plebeian
population and the forces abroad from succumbing to stomach ailments. Interestingly, bitters did diverge into two separate streams over time: one a full-proof aperitif/digestif meant to be enjoyed as a stand-alone drink or mixed into cocktail, the other as a concentrated distillate that is meant to be added in very small doses to a cocktail as a flavouring agent.
For a small dose in a not-so-classic cocktail: (made with Ontario Bitters)
Luxardo Bitter Bianco
Frape Manhattan Ingredients:
Directions:
Ingredients:
Directions:
from Italy
2 oz whiskey 1 oz sweet vermouth 1 to 2 dashes of Frape & Sons Rhubarb Bitters with Orange Orange Peel Maraschino Cherries Ice
Place ice in cocktail shaker. Add whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Shake vigorously. Rub the orange peel around the rim of a cocktail glass. Strain the spirits into the glass. Add 1 to 2 cherries.
4 oz ginger beer 3 oz dark rum 3 dashes Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers Bitters Lime Lime wedges
Fill a short cocktail glass with ice. Squeeze in the juice of one lime wedge. Add bitters and ginger beer. Slowly pour rum over to create a “stormy” look in the glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.
LCBO No. 495747 30% ABV $23.95 for 750ml
Dark and Stormy Superior
IT’S THE SEASON TO
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Balmoral St & Harbour Expy | 807.623.1960
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The Walleye
Food
Top Chef Returns Event Promotes Local Culinary Scene and Supports Shelter House Story by Judy Roche, Photo by Matthew Goertz
F
oodies unite! Thunder Bay Top Chef is coming back and it promises to be better than ever. To mark its sixth delicious year, this culinary extravaganza is being emceed by none other than Food Network celebrity, Thirsty Traveler star, MegaWorld and CheF*OFF! host, and Iron Chef America co-host Kevin Brauch. Event organizer Sharla Brown created the gastro competition “to highlight the amazing food scene in Thunder Bay.” She enthusiastically talks about how Top Chef helps promote up-and-coming
restaurants, as well as established favourites, to our diverse community. “Thunder Bay has embraced the foodie culture and all the excitement of new and creative culinary establishments,” she says. “Food and drink bring people together and the Thunder Bay food scene does an incredible job to create a vast variety of different foods and drinks to try and unique atmospheres to enjoy them in.” The sold-out event is being held in support of Shelter House, an organization Brown chose “because they do amazing
work in our community and no one should ever go without food and shelter.” Tickets to the competition allow you to judge dishes alongside Brauch and a panel of local celebrities as you try each tantalizing morsel and cast your vote. Limited VIP tickets also include a preshow meet-and-greet and an early sampling of all the competing creations from local restaurants. But possibly the most anticipated part of the event is the mixology with Brauch himself—you’ll get to create liquid art while he shares stories of sipping spirits around the globe.
So, who’s competing, you ask? Well, the diverse line-up includes La Poutine, Freshwater Cuisine (from Kenora), Salt and Pepper Catering, Thyme, Barbecupid, Victoria Inn, The Eddy, The Blue Door Bistro, as well as The Crew on May.
Victoria Inn November 4 keynoteevents.ca
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In home professional consultations & installations northerndecorating@gmail.com Tel: 807-577-9517 The Walleye
21
Food
Brew It Yourself
Winter is Coming—Embrace the Taste of Darkness
Choco Breakfast Stout (5 gallons/19 L, all-grain) OG = 1.061 FG = 1.013 IBU = 55 SRM = ~36 ABV = 6.1% Ingredients 3.50 kg pale ale malt 0.50 kg crystal 60L 0.50 kg flaked oats 0.25 kg chocolate malt 0.25 kg roasted barley
By Josh Armstrong, PhD, BJCP Certified Beer Judge
0.13 kg Carafa III 35 g Columbus hops (14% alpha acid) 0.05 kg milk sugar (Lactose)
Mash for 60 minutes at 66.7°C then boil for 60 minutes. Add hops at start of boil. Add milk sugar 30 minutes into boil. After completed boil, cool wort to 15°C and pitch yeast. Ferment for two weeks at 15°C and add strained liquor from cocoa nibs and coffee before packaging.
Dry English ale yeast (White Labs WLP007) 100 g cocoa nibs (ground and soaked in dark rum) 1L of cold-steeped dark roast coffee from Wolfhead Coffee
A
s the nights grow longer and the days get colder, the colour of the beer that I crave becomes darker and darker. From stouts to robust porters to barley wine, there is something about the flavour of dark ales and lagers that simply works well during the cold Canadian winter. Perhaps they offer comfort in the same way that stews and roasted root vegetables do. Dark beers typically showcase malty and Maillard characters like biscuit, caramel, chocolate, and coffee. When designing dark beer recipes, home brewers can choose
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from a wide range of malt types to create flavours common to darker beer styles. Malt types and their associated impact on beer darkness are developed by a maltster (e.g., Canadian Malting Company on the harbourfront) by kilning or heating the malted barley in different ways. The process in which the malted barley is kilned dictates the flavour the final product will add to a brew. The primary type of malt used in brewing beer is called base malt. Base malts are only lightly kilned and provide that light malty character that you
get in Sleeping Giant Brewing Company’s Northern Logger. They do not provide much colour to beers, but it’s hard to brew a good beer without them. After base malts, there are three general types of malts to consider when developing a dark beer recipe: kilned, crystal, and roasted. Kilned malts provide flavours like toast and biscuit, and are typically only added in small amounts (up to 20% in a recipe). Crystal malts are made using a different process where the malt is stewed at around 70°C for a couple of hours and then kilned
at a warmer temperature. This approach produces a Maillard reaction with the sugars, which leads to flavours like caramel, raisin, or toasted marshmallow, depending on how long the malt is kilned for. Roasted malts are much darker as they are more highly kilned and add the rich aromas and flavours of chocolate and dark roasted coffee, while also adding some bitterness. Local craft beer examples of dark ales are Sleeping Giant’s Skull Rock Stout and Dawson Trail’s Oater Limits Stout. Or, if you’re taking a trip south along
the lake towards Duluth, you could try Bent Paddle Brewing Co.’s Black Ale. All three beers are approachable and perfect for cold November nights on the shore of Lake Superior. When brewing dark beers at home, it’s a lot of fun to get creative and completely embrace the taste of darkness by accentuating those dark malt flavours with ingredients like locally roasted coffee, dark chocolate, milk sugar, and oats. Check out my chocolate breakfast stout recipe that combines all those tasty ingredients into a dark and delightful brew.
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The Walleye
23
...the name you can trust! Car Care & Service Centre - Locally Owned and Operated Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles your Full Service Repair Centre for all your vehicle needs
LUXURY
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2008 Acura MDX Elite Package
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2011 Hyundai Santa FE GL 2.4 Premium 2.4L 4cyl, 6sp auto, air, cruise, tilt, pw, pdl, heated seat, am/fm/cd/mp3, alloys, sunroof, remote entry snow tires on rims, 136,593km, safetied & certified
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12,995 S TAX
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2012 Dodge Journey CVP/SE Plus 2.4L I-4 cyl auto, air, cruise, tilt steering, pw, pdl,am/fm/cd/mp3, back-up sensor, remote entry. 72,233 km. Winter tires on rims included.
PHONE: 807-344-2644
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24
The Walleye
Food
The Roaring 20s
Cosbey Quintet
Featuring Music by Elgar, Webern, MacMillan, Jelly Roll Morton, and other cool cats $20/ $10 students
7:30 pm Thursday, November 30th Trinity United Church
(L-R) Suzie Kepes, Marie Penko, Steve Lauro, and Rosie Lauro
The Commissary
Upholding Art, Craft, and Family Traditions Story by Betty Carpick, Photos by Adrian Lysenko
A
t the beginning of the 20th century, attracted by the promise of unlimited opportunities in Northwestern Ontario, European immigrants rapidly settled into Thunder Bay’s East End. Everyone had a substantial garden and food traditions that linked their homeland to Canada. There was a close-knit vibrancy and stores on practically every corner. Prosperity seemed inevitable if you worked hard and had a desire to succeed.
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Thunder Bay’s reigning experts on curing and smoking meat grew up hand-peeling garlic for kielbasa and helping out in their grandparent’s store, Kutnic Groceries & Meat on Christie Street. The business is the only one left. Kutnic’s opened in 1936, closed 53 years later for a retirement test-drive, and reopened in 2004 as The Commissary Deli & Smoked Meats. Four of the seven siblings—Marie Penko, Steve Lauro, Rosie Lauro, and Suzie Kepes— now run the joint. In their friendly, unpretentious way, they approach each new day with a commitment to helping with their customers’ daily needs, providing meat smoking services to local and area farmers and hunters, and to preserving their Ukrainian-Slovenian ancestry through extraordinary and painstaking labour. While certain aspects of the business have modernized, they’ve proudly kept many of the old traditions intact.
The 100-year-old building encapsulates the character of the family, the neighbourhood, and its food culture. Seasonal baking and house-made pickles, eggs, and vegetables are offered in neat rows. Need parsley? Take some for free. The daily ready-to-eat food is affordably priced with everything from sausage on a bun, soup, sandwiches, and full meals. The juxtaposition of flavours have the legendary East End vibe with pickled pork sandwiches, borscht, loaded baked potato soup, grilled smoked beef and Swiss sandwiches, apple bacon soup, kapusta, back bacon melts, Sicilian subs, and more, in an inventive line-up that uses what’s popular, seasonal, and plentiful.
are wheatless and gluten-, additive-, and filler-free. Meats are warm-smoked on Wednesday and Saturday mornings in a twin set of 10’ tall smokers using a carefully calibrated burn of birch wood and maple sawdust. Steve Lauro, master of the meat, explains that the smoking and drying isn’t about time-saving measures. ”It’s all about patience,” Lauro says. “Sure it’s long hours and a lot of work.” As he veers off into describing the details of making blood sausage, the sparkle in his eyes and his enthusiastic grin say more than words can express. Visit The Commissary Deli & Smoked Meats at 618 Christie St, or call 624-9190.
The Commissary has plenty of enthusiastic fans. A world map behind the counter attests to how well-traveled their products are. On a recent visit, a woman buying three rings of individually wrapped coarse garlic sausage said, “Every time you tell someone you’re coming here, they say, ‘Pick me one up, too!” Beneath the store’s idiosyncratic main floor signage and distinctly curated product offerings is a state-of-theart processing facility installed in 2013. Pork from Northwestern Ontario is The Commissary’s go-to with freshly made specialties including sausage rings, back bacon, smokies, pepperettes, wieners, ribs, hams, and more. Most products The Walleye
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FilmTheatre
Of Monsters and Men
All the Daze Productions’ Masterful Musical Theatre By Tonya Muchano Zoe Hogard, just six years old, is All the Daze Productions’ youngest recruit. She plays the part of a werewolf, and rehearses with gusto, holding up her song book like the older actors and pretending to read along. “This is the first play I’ve ever been in,” she explains. “I’m excited about doing it on stage.”
I
t’s a brand new season for All the Daze Productions, one of Thunder Bay’s finest youth theatre companies. With two completely different productions running nearly back-to-back, fans of the troupe are in for a real treat. First up is the full length musical We Are Monsters, which runs November 24 and 25 and features the company’s junior troupe. The production tells the story of a boy who has an unusual friendship with a monster. When his monster friend is in trouble, he enlists his human friends to help. Despite their fear of the monster world, the group perseveres.
Bah Humbug! goes up December 1 and 2, and is an adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens tale A Christmas Carol that contains, as All the Daze founder Marcia Arpin says, “many musical surprises.” The production features the company’s senior troupe, with special guest star Colin Stewart. All the Daze Productions prides itself on meaningfully involving youth in every aspect of production, from directing to choreography, acting to costumes, and even set design. This means that both We Are Monsters and Bah Humbug! have youth directors, stage managers, choreographers, and photographers. The
sets and costumes are designed and created with youth input— and elbow grease. Arley Henry, the director of We Are Monsters, initially became interested in theatre through Paramount Live, and had her first experience directing this past spring at the youth 10x10 Festival. She says that after 10x10 she “felt ready for something bigger” and was excited when Arpin asked her to direct the full length musical. Fourteen year-old Henry says it’s been a rewarding experience so far, although it is “lots of work… coming up with what’s going to happen, where everyone is going to stand, to make it look exciting.”
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All the Daze has been producing children’s theatre for almost three years and Joelle Krupa, age 9, has been with the company since the beginning. She says that one of things she enjoys most is
that “Marcia [Arpin] makes it feel like every actor is important.” Although memorizing lines isn’t easy, Krupa insists that anyone who is curious should give acting a try: “I would suggest that they definitely try it because it’s really fun and easy to do.” Audiences can catch We Are Monsters and Bah Humbug! at the Confederation College Lecture Theatre (Shuniah Building). Tickets are $10 and are available at the Baggage Building Gift Gallery or at the door.
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2017-10-17 11:57 AM
WINTERER’S GATHERING & arctic film festival
FilmTheatre
NOVEMBER 17 - 19 featured speaker • JON TURK
hands-on courses • arctic films winter skill speakers gear swap • coldsnap poetry slam winter tent camp & more!
Leonard Cohen: In His Own Words Film Explores Influential Singer and Songwriter’s Life By Kelly Saxberg
L
eonard Cohen’s passing in November 2016 was a turning point for Dalibor Mišina, a professor of sociology at Lakehead University. The death of his idol moved Mišina to produce a film that explores Cohen’s art through interviews he gave over the course of several decades.
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Mišina moved to Canada in the summer of 1991. There was something special about reading Leonard Cohen’s first novel, The Favourite Game, in Montreal and recognizing the book’s local references and landscapes. Towards the end of 1992, Leonard Cohen released his ninth album, The Future. Mišina embraced it wholeheartedly. In 2008, it was announced that Leonard Cohen would embark on a worldwide tour for the first time in 15 years. The principal reason for it was “financial inconvenience” that forced him out of retirement. Mišina was lucky enough to attend 25 of those concerts over 5 years. Late in the evening of November 11, 2016, Mišina received a text from a friend, expressing condolences for Leonard Cohen’s passing. As he was
working through what felt like a deeply personal loss, he began to think about the possible ways of capturing and communicating why Cohen mattered so much to him. The video project, Leonard Cohen: In His Own Words, became his attempt to convey this. The idea was to compile Cohen’s thoughts on some of the key themes that run through his work and shed light on his philosophy on life (and death). Mišina settled on six themes: growing up, writing, love, monastic life, human condition, and the third act. He wanted to create a project that could work as multi-format— whether watched, listened to, or (if it was to be transcribed) read. For this reason, there are no “extras”—background story, music, or voiceover—but only Cohen’s words. The end effect is an introspective insight into Cohen’s thoughts that is both engaging and illuminating. November 7, 2017 marks the first anniversary of Leonard Cohen’s passing. The screening of Leonard Cohen: In His Own Words is a fitting public event to commemorate it. The free screening will take place at Trinity Hall, 310 Park Avenue, at 7 pm. The Walleye
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FilmTheatre
The Second Most Pleasurable Thing We Do In The Dark: A Column About Movies
Movies about Musicians By Michael Sobota
M
ovies and music have been married to each other since movies were still silent. In the early part of the last century, silent movies were often accompanied by a lone piano player providing live musical accompaniment to screenings in theatres to enhance the content of the visual stories. Sometimes, in larger cities, there might have been a pipe organ or full orchestral accompaniment. As well, movies have used music and musicians as the source for some of their greatest storytelling. From Beethoven to The Beatles, Tchaikovsky to Liberace, Bessie Smith to Sid and Nancy, musicians’ lives have provided rich content for the big screen. Here are four gems that feature musicians as their central focus.
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READERS & WRITERS FE
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They should send her to Iraq, strap her to a bomb and just drop her over Baghdad. - An anonymous man on a radio call-in show, commenting on Natalie Maines of The Dixie Chicks, in Shut Up And Sing
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Shut Up & Sing (2006) The Dixie Chicks, an American country band, were at the peak of their popularity in 2003. While touring, lead singer Natalie Maines happened to say—purposefully, at a public concert—that she was “ashamed of“ their president. That was George W. Bush, who was invading Iraq. A firestorm of conservative criticism rained down on the trio for daring to criticize the president. Their CDs and band paraphernalia were destroyed, often in violent demonstrations. They were sent numerous, gruesome death threats. Shut Up and Sing is a beautifully made documentary (co-directed by Barbara Kopple and Cecilia Peck) about how this affected the individual members of the band and their families and how they hung together, never backing down, to move through this crisis in their careers. How timely this movie is to today’s American politics.
20 Feet From Django (2017) Rumble: The Stardom (2013) Writer/director Étienne Comar Indians Who adapted Alexis Salatko’s novel Every lead singer—and Rocked The about the great jazz musician sometimes bands Django Reinhardt. The movie World (2017) themselves—have back-up concentrates on a late period singers. Mostly they are anonymous, standing at the side, providing glorious harmonies or repetition to the lead artist’s vocals. Sometimes you don’t even see them. This documentary, by director Morgan Neville, moves these vocalists to the front of the stage. And he gets artists like Lou Adler, Mick Jagger, Bette Midler, Sting, and Bruce Springsteen to extol their virtues. We get to see and hear dozens of these vocalists make beautiful music, including Patti Austin, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Darlene Love, and many more. This is not a movie about “could have beens” or “might have beens,” because every one of them is integral to the great music we experience in these numbers. And their individual stories bring deep and moving grounding to the arcs of their careers.
in Reinhardt’s life in Nazioccupied Paris in 1943. Though a gypsy—and thus lower caste to the governing Nazi regime—Reinhardt moves easily in Parisian café society. His musical reputation and popularity gives him, his wife and family, and his band, some protection. His popularity is problematic when a Nazi general approaches Reinhardt to go on a tour to Germany, to “inspire the troops.” He is told, however, that he must play “traditional music, and only 20% can be [his] familiar and popular gypsy swing type tunes.” Alarmed, he flees with his family to the Swiss border and awaits an opportunity to escape. The film has a straightforward narrative with plot going from A to B to C without any surprises. But Reda Ketab, a superb musician, infuses the title character with genuine musical passion and fire.
This documentary is a compilation of Indigenous performers who contributed to the history of rock and roll. Co-directors Catherine Bainbridge and Alfonso Maiorana assemble video footage of some remarkable performances and interviews with a broad range of Indigenous musicians. They include familiar names like Buffy Sainte-Marie and Robbie Robertson, as well as lesser known side-musicians like John Trudell and Randy Castillo. We also learn, surprisingly to me, about the Indigenous heritage of other great artists like Jimi Hendrix (his mother was Cherokee) and Taj Mahal. The documentary is a timely celebration of Indigenous people’s historical contributions to the great musical engine that is rock and roll.
And here are six more musician focused movies, all based on their real lives: Coal Miner’s Daughter (1980), La Bamba (1987), Backbeat (1994), The Pianist (2002), Ray (2004), and La Vie en Rose (2007).
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FilmTheatre truth that surprises even the visiting ghost by the end. Director Beverley Gravelle-MacLeod is happy to be directing for her sixth time. She was attracted to the script for its heart and soul. She immediately appreciated the familiarity of the northern town setting, the quality of the characters, and the play’s many modern references. Gravelle-MacLeod knows this play is entertaining and has many laughs, but wonders if there may be a few tears too.
(L-R) Hilke Grunys, Lauren Payette, Norman McDougall, Elliott Cromarty, Mari Lukkaroinen, and Vivian Siciliano
Mom’s Gift
Cambrian Players Presents their Opening Production
By Marcia Arpin
W
hat happens when you Google “new,” “community theatre,” and “awardwinning plays”? You quickly discover Cambrian Players’ opening production this season, Mom’s Gift.
Lauren Payette plays the role of the daughter and reveals she is the only character that can hear or see her ghostly mom. Although this poses problems for the character, it gives Payette many thrills as an actress. “There is depth, many emotions to explore and moments that are relatable,” explains Payette, who was last on stage with Cambrian Players in The Full Monty. Hilke Grunys also returns to Cambrian Players and has embraced the grace, love, and humour of her latest role as a mother. “There is a mysterious quality about Mom and ultimately what the gift is,” says Grunys. Cambrian Players continues to bring together the very best of our community’s talent. The board of directors invests time annually to read a variety of scripts to ensure each season showcases a blend of classic and modern stories. Everyone is invited to become involved each season.
Set in Minnesota, this comedy centres around a family birthday party. However, the play quickly reveals a twist: one guest has been dead for eleven months. The motherly ghost shows up to her husband’s birthday party with a mission: she must accomplish a mysFinlandia Hall terious task in order to earn her wings. Enjoy aPhil future-focused in healthcare Playwright Olson has crafted career and November 15-18as anda cleverly worded the family secrets, letNovember 22-25 Personal Support Worker with St. Joseph’s Care Group. ting audiences experience each layer as cambrianplayers.ca it is peeled away, revealing the shocking
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theArts
Lightning Bolt, mixed media, 122 x 76 cm
Tango w/ White, mixed media, 115 x 121 cm
Blue Realm #2, mixed media, 102 x 76 cm
Quentin Maki’s Kohesion Exploring the Interplay Between Experience and Art By Leah Ching
T
his fall, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery is featuring a new exhibition by local artist Quentin Maki, in which the artist presents a series of multi-layered compositions inspired by his own life and experiences growing up in the community of Kaministiquia. Inspired by his rural upbringing, Kohesion presents a stimulating interplay of composition, colours, and textures coming together in large pieces that invite reflection and interpretation from the viewer. The artist makes use of mixed media and collage, integrating elements such as charcoal studies and ink work to create artwork that is as dynamic and evolving as the landscape that inspired it. “I grew up in Kaministiquia on a property that backs onto the river. I was inspired by the spring thaw, the ice fragments and fractals in the river,” Maki says. “I don’t expect anyone to notice those things, but the repetition in my art, the use of geometric shapes, it is symbolic. I
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try to stay in tune with the things around me, the things that create interest, and the objects that have a history to them.” Maki’s artwork, while inspired by the world around him, is abstract in nature, focusing on projects that include multiple, intersecting layers and elements. “I stay away from the term artist,” says Maki. “I consider myself more of a picture maker. There’s definitely a lot of layers in my work. I play with surface textures and layering to give each piece a history, to make each work its own.” “You can’t make someone like your work, but you can use the medium to make the work engaging,” Maki adds. “You can make it abstract, created with authority from the artist doing it. It’s a manipulation process between the work and the viewer. Get them engaged, and looking away from their smartphones for a few minutes.” Kohesion runs at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery from October 6 to November 19.
Dark Form on Green, mixed media, 102 x 76 cm
theArts
From Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s Collection
An Unkindness of Ravens By Nadia Kurd, Curator, Thunder Bay Art Gallery Artist: Michele Coslett Goodman Title: An Unkindness of Ravens Date: 2009 Medium: Rubber, wire, wood, and fiberfill sculpture Size: Variable
D
ryden-based artist Michele Coslett Goodman has a talent for transforming everyday materials into works of art. In An Unkindness of Ravens, discarded inner tubing from tires has been skillfully cut, sewn, and wrapped to be transformed into sculptures of an unkindness (the collective noun for ravens) of ravens. In this sculpture, two ravens are perched on a tree branch, one is suspended from the ceiling, and the other eight remaining birds are assembled on the ground. Altogether,
we have a scene where a group of birds appear to be in a deep conversation. No doubt, such feathery gatherings are familiar to residents of Northwestern Ontario. During the making of this sculpture, Coslett Goodman would often drive around Dryden to observe ravens, noting how they would communicate amongst each other and admiring the overall hardiness and astute nature of these birds that live in the north throughout the year. Coslett Goodman also cites American writer Edgar Allan Poe as a source of inspiration for this work, particularly his poem The Raven, which accounts the eerie nighttime interaction between a raven and a heartbroken man who is slowly descending into grief and doubt. Ravens have long held symbolic meaning for a number of cultures across the globe, which undeniably adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of this work. An Unkindness of Ravens represents the growing number of works by regional artists in the gallery’s permanent collection and was purchased from the artist in 2010 with the generous support of the Canada Council for the Arts Acquisition Assistance program.
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Kelly Chisholm
theArts
(Top, left to right) Roger Alty, Tim Alexander, (Bottom, left to right) Kelly Chisholm, Laurel Lee, and Bev Turpin.
Rossport Artisans’ Fair North Shore Town Hosts Inaugural Art Event By Emma Christensen
I
t’s easy to associate Rossport with peaceful summer days by Lake Superior. You may know this scenic and welcoming village as a summer destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but it is also home to an active arts scene— one that doesn’t always stop for winter. This month, 13 talented artists will get together to show their support for a cause that is close to the heart of their small town. Beverley Turpin is a watercolour artist and an organizer of the inaugural Rossport Artisans’ Fair. “Our little recreation hall needs restoration,” she says. “So I thought what better a way of showcasing the artists as well as
raising funds.” Visitors can stop by the Rossport Community Hall to interact with new and established artists and purchase pottery, woodwork, sewing, jewelry, and visual art. The fair will feature hot drinks and baked goods, a penny auction, and a raffle for a runner created by weaver Marie Westerman. “The purchases from the [penny auction] table, the door raffle, the admission, and any donations all go back to the hall,” says Turpin.
Breckenridge lend their organizational skills to the planning committee. Their Rossport neighbors have also been there to lend a hand at every step of the way. “People are more than willing to support,” says Turpin. Although the town is home to a yearround population of less than 100 residents, Rossport is as welcoming as ever during the winter months. “I think people like to come here just to get away. There are beautiful B&Bs and a wonderful restaurant,” says Turpin. Surprisingly, many
of the attractions we fondly associate with summer are open all year. Visiting the Rossport Artisans’ Fair may be the perfect reason to plan a pre-Christmas road trip. The Rossport Artisans’ Fair will take place at the Rossport Community Hall on Saturday, November 18 from noon to 4 pm. Admission to the event is $2 and additional donations are welcome. The hall is located at 200 McKay Street. For more information, contact Beverley Turpin by phone at (807) 824-3323 or by email at painterbythelake@yahoo.com.
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Nothing—be it planning an event or restoring a hall—is easily accomplished without a community, and the artisans’ fair is no exception. Lynn McGrath, Kelly Chisholm, and Joanne Contact Bight at 622-4448 or visit www.bightrestaurant.ca for more information
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theArts
Despres Designs
A Passion for Art Story and photos by Tara George
N
estled away amongst the trees is the makings of something really astonishing. What starts as a raw material in the hands of an artist—who also happens to be a talented welder/ fabricator and hold an anthropology degree—is being transformed into a greater vision that evokes feelings of wonder, whimsy, and darkness. Luc Despres guided me through the beginnings of an outdoor art gallery, and although in its infancy, it was what captured me the most during our visit. The tour started at the cemetery—iron crosses scattered amongst life-sized concrete angels with metal wings. The realness of it was becoming, and it's no wonder that this is a popular location for Confederation College students to flock to when seeking out backdrops for their films or photography. Despres shared that the process of making the angels is quite involved, with the use of live models, castings, moulds, and free-hand metal cuts, noting with respect that “if you want the organic look, it has to be free-hand.” Tucked away in another part of his yard are his mermaid and fairy collections, which are as equally impressive and speak to his attraction to the human form. As we round our way back to his workshop, I get a glimpse at some of his commissioned pieces, and the spot where
it all happens. His clients are diverse, and have kept him busy since he made his design business a full-time gig in December of last year. Despres’ projects are wideranging and include cutting designs into old heirloom items like saws, creating custom road signs, designing armour, and crafting large wall installations. However, what is consistent among his projects is the passion he has for his art and the precision in which it is executed. For more information visit facebook. com/despresdesign.
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theArts
Christian Chapman
Art Drawn from Parallel Experiences Fight for Your Life and Beneath the Reflection at Def Sup Story by Kim Latimer, Photos by Linda Dawn Hammond
E
lements of sacred geometry and storytelling, East-meets-West politics, and the horror of colonization are all themes interwoven in two current exhibits on display at Definitely Superior Art Gallery.
Fight for Your Life Colonialism, satire, identity,
and history are the basis of the Christian Chapman’s exhibit Fight for Your Life. Chapman is of Anishinaabe heritage, from Fort William First Nation. He has a vivid sense of humour. “Chapman is a highly productive, multidisciplinary artist, known for his powerful and inventive visual works. As well, he
was recently honoured with the prestigious Ontario Premier’s Award as Emerging Artist of the Year,” says David Karasiewicz, executive and artistic director at Definitely Superior Art Gallery. A glow of red is the first thing the viewer will notice—as though lit by flame,
the 9x12 foot canvas of “The Time is Now and Yesterday and Tomorrow” illuminates the room. The work is a satirical take on a classic painting by a politically savvy multidisciplinary artist with an understanding of art history—Chapman’s work is an obvious fresh, Woodlands
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style recreation of “The Raft of the Medusa” by French romantic painter and lithographer Théodore Géricault. Chapman uses copper for the raft within the painting, and the Thunderbird predominant above the raft is impossible to miss—perhaps representing the Anishinaabe spirit, or
The Library is looking for your ideas and expertise. Are you interested in teaching or sharing a skill with others? Are there specific programs that you would attend at the Library? Send us your name, phone number, email address and a brief description of your skill, program idea or other thoughts to makers@tbpl.ca Let’s collaborate!
theArts counteracting the underwater spirit of Mishipeshu. And of course, off in the distance, instead of a rescue vessel is the great Nanabijou, the spirit of deep water. The work speaks so vividly to the experience of decades of the loss of so many in our community, and more recently over a dozen young Indigenous youth in the rivers of Thunder Bay.
his past. Shahsahabi’s mother was a traditional Persian poet who would recite the likes of Rumi, Hafez, and Saadi Shirazi for him when he was a young boy in Iran before the beauty of his childhood was darkened by the violence he witnessed.
In his work “Fight for Your Life,” he mixes traditional Woodland style screen print with the modern lyrics of an Iron Maiden song. Listening closely to the song, you can see how he drew parallels to Anishinaabe experience. "Both works were triggered by the troubled atmosphere we face in our community,” says Chapman. “Both works speak to me equally. “Run to The Hills” is about the fight we deal with everyday. The time is now… and yesterday and tomorrow is about the harsh reality of First Nation youths living in our community. The one message he hopes his audience takes away is "take care of the kids.”
Beneath the Reflection Iranian-Canadian artist Sam Shahsahabi’s collection called Beneath the Reflection reveals images of oil dependency overshadowed by even stronger elements of beauty. He likens his work to the healing power of layered poetry, perhaps because poetry played such a profound role in
In his work “Reverberation,” Shahsahabi recreates the sound of distant bombs dropping, fashioned from a sheet of copper that periodically is struck. The sound, he says, is one he remembers and it hauntingly ripples throughout the room. In the same installation he also creates a continuous drawing apparatus that instills the feeling of endlessness, similar to the unforgiving memories of violence or the continuous struggles of his nation to reconcile with the present day politics of an EastWest divide. All of the pieces in Shahsahabi’s collection leave the audience with a feeling of self reflection. The mediums he uses, including copper, oil, acid, and glazes, offer a polished surfaces that the viewer can physically see themselves within. One work, called “Harmony of the Chaos,” looks like a beautiful, earthy aerial shot of turquoise waters and brownish-red soiled earth, but as you get closer you can see images of body parts even blood left behind by a fatal blast. Yet somehow Shahsahabi has found a peaceful reckoning or harmony. He utilizes colour, form, and grace to captivate and
Sam Shahsahabi
overpower the destruction, and that beauty is what stays with the viewer. “I’ve been inspired by Japanese artists who’ve also witnessed war,” he says. “One artist explained how you always have to try to leave beauty in your work even when the influence of a work is based on some form of horror or destruction. In Japanese art there is a belief that it is equally important to leave the viewer with an element to cherish.” Both collections will be shown at Definitely Superior Art Gallery until November 11.
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The
of Thunder Bay
2017 Readers’ Survey VOTING IS OPEN!
You’ve already nominated your favourites, now vote for the best. Head to the online survey at thewalleye.ca/bestofthunderbay2017
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CityScene
Go Local Thunder Bay Country Market Marla Cliff
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Creative Cliffs Story and photo by Michelle Kolobutin
F
ive years ago, Marla Cliff wanted to spend more time with her father. He is an interesting fellow, a jack of all trades, the kind of man that can make anything with nothing. She found herself with him in his workshop, spending evenings together at his scroll saw, where he taught her one of the things he loved doing for her when she was young: how to make wooden puzzles. She fell in love with woodworking and started making puzzles as gifts for family and friends. As her confidence and experience with woodworking increased, so did requests for other items, and thus Creative Cliffs was born. Marla Cliff works the scroll saw, and her sister Melissa does the stencilling. They are members of a very creative family—in addition to her father’s creative knack with almost all the trades, Melissa owns ABC Embroidery & Promotions and her mother owned a flower shop. The range of items that Marla and
Melissa create include wood light boxes using LEDs (think sport team logos, Elvis, even Star Wars outlines), camp and sauna signs, wine racks, silhouettes, and a variety of unique home decor items. They also take custom orders and can create almost anything that folks request. They often use black walnut and padauk to create their pieces, which are exotic woods with stunning colours and a live edge (meaning the bark is still intact) that gives each piece a unique twist. Marla and Melissa have their woodwork in homes across the world. They have filled orders from folks in Russia, Italy, and across Canada. Since Creative Cliffs has become so popular, the time Marla used to spend with her dad in his workshop is limited, but he is her biggest fan and they enjoy coffee together at the market on Saturday mornings. Stop by and visit them upstairs at the Thunder Bay Country Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, or find them on Facebook. The Walleye
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CityScene
Hockey Dads Bring it Home
Book Launch Aims to Inspire By Kaela Stradiotto life. The evidence speaks for itself; with three sons drafted into the NHL and two daughters with their own athletic and artistic achievements alongside teaching careers and kids of their own, Subban certainly has some valuable advice to pass along.
S
cott Colby can hardly contain his excitement. With the approaching launch of his debut book, How We Did It: The Subban Plan for Success in Hockey, School and Life, coauthored with Karl Subban, he has a lot to be excited for. The book is a memoir, a series of stories about the Subban family and the way in which Karl Subban learned, as an educator, parent, and coach, to develop the potential in every child, not just in sport but in
Colby agrees. In 2013, the Thunder Bay native and father of twins was living in Toronto and writing a regular parenting column for the Toronto Star when a publicist contacted him to interview Subban. Colby jumped at the chance. Subban had been his childhood hero since they first met at a basketball camp run by Lakehead University in 1979—Colby, who was nearly 14 at the time, says Subban, an LU star player and camp instructor, made an immediate impression on him. Originally from Jamaica, Subban stood an impressive 6’4” and had a personality to match. “He really reached out to the kids right from the beginning… he made everyone feel special,” Colby recalls.
Scott Colby
Subban’s drive to help others succeed didn’t stop there: at the time Colby first contacted him, Subban had just retired from his work as a principal in the Toronto neighbourhood of Jane and Finch. After they reconnected, it was obvious to Colby that the next step had to be a book. As luck would have it, Subban had been thinking the same thing. With Colby’s journalistic skills and Subban’s system of values and principles honed through the years, the two set out to share with the world the way to inspire every child to
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Start your legacy today! Call (807) 475-7279 www.tbcf.org 42
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develop their potential and live their dreams. Colby is quick to affirm that this is a book for everyone, whether or not you have a child, and whether or not you’re interested in sports. This book is for “anyone who wants to be better.” “It’s an immigrant story. It’s a parenting story. It’s a hockey story. It’s an education story,” says Colby. “There are universal lessons about having goals, focusing, staying positive. Universal truths.”
Colby and Subban will be coming back to Thunder Bay, the place where this connection all began, to hold the book launch. This will include a speech by Subban, an interview by Colby, and a chance to ask questions and get your book signed.
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CityScene
This is Thunder Bay This month, The Walleye asked “What does Remembrance Day mean to you?””
CUSTOM DESIGNED BOUQUETS AND ARRANGEMENTS
Interviews by Nancy Saunders, Photos by Laura Paxton
285 Bay St. | 807.345.2848 thujafloraldesign.ca
Joey: We get to go to events at Fort William Gardens and the infantry guys in their kilts and stuff get to go up to Mount McKay. We also head to the Cenotaph at Waverley Park that is a monument to the fallen soldiers, and everybody lays their poppy there. And we go out to all the branches to see all the retired members.
Erik: Remembrance Day is a time to remember our veterans, particularly from World War I and World War II; my grandfather, who has passed… I like to wear the poppy from the start of November, for a few weeks. It’s a time to remember those who fought for the freedoms we have in Canada today.
EVERY THURSDAY 6-8pm
LOTS OF MEAT TO BE WON Mary: Remembrance Day represents an appreciation for where I live. Because we have freedom! We have a democratic society. Rosie: It means reflecting on people that have made sacrifices for future generations that they didn’t even meet! Francesca: I concur!
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The Walleye
Ernie: Remembrance Day means the end to a horrific war. It will be especially big next year as it will be 100 years since the First World War ended.
PORT ARTHUR LEGION BR. NO. 5 CLUB ROOM 229 VAN NORMAN STREET THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO
CityScene
Piercing the Shield
New Book Celebrates Local History By Jon Nelson
“T
hey say that you spend the first 20 years of your life trying to get away from home, and the last 20 years trying to get back. That was certainly the case for me.” Leo Hunnakko was born in Port Arthur and raised in the rural community of Silver Mountain southwest of Thunder Bay. He spent 40 years initially attending university, then working and raising a family in southern Ontario, but returned to Silver Mountain when he retired. The numerous journeys through the heart of the Canadian Shield along the north shore of Lake Superior were the inspiration that led to his book Piercing the Shield. His appreciation of the difficulty traversing the Canadian Shield was magnified when he was working with Mike Ranta on their book about Ranta’s solo canoe trip across Canada. Ranta had four of five scary “misadventures” that threatened his life while crossing the shield, including one on the Kaministiquia River when he hit a submerged rock and almost capsized above a big set of rapids.
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This book looks at how the topography of the Canadian Shield has acted as a barrier to transportation across Canada and how this barrier was pierced by birch bark canoes, railroads, highways, ships, and on foot. For people crossing Canada, the Rockies were a formidable barrier and Hunnakko makes the case that the section from Sault Ste. Marie along the north shore of Lake Superior to Thunder Bay was equally, if not more challenging. Lake Superior is essentially an inland sea that has been a challenge for everything from birch bark canoes to oceangoing cargo vessels. The author notes that for fur traders, a successful crossing of Lake Superior without incident was a major accomplishment. Occasionally a large ship, such as the Edmund
Fitzgerald, also meets its demise when the “gales of November come early.” Hunnakko also delves deeply into the mystery of an audacious attempt to cross Canada by car on an all-Canadian route in 1930. Since there was no road between Hearst and Nipigon this was a daunting task. The author quotes the Port Arthur News Chronicle that they encountered a “vicious stretch of muskeg and in seven days negotiated exactly five miles.” After moving even more slowly near Lake Nipigon—ice, slush, and replacing front wheels with skis were just some of the difficulties they faced before they finally arrived in Port Arthur—it is still a mystery as to why they didn’t continue on after the hardest part of the journey was behind them and they could drive on real roads heading west. It wasn’t until 1946 that someone made a coast-to-coast trip. Building and maintaining a railroad along the north shore of Lake Superior was a daunting task. A major railway obstacle was overcome with the building of the Pass Lake trestle in 1911. The trestle is 700 metres long and about 40 metres above the small river it crosses. Pass Lake residents told Hunnakko that due to its importance as a link in the transportation of supplies in support of the war effort during World War II, it had to be walked and inspected before each train crossed over it. The book also covers many local stories about the construction and early years of the Port Arthur, Duluth and Western Railway (Pee Dee), and other tales of transportation piercing the shield in this area. One of the last stories in the book is about Terry Fox, the young man whose attempt to “pierce the shield” ended up piercing the heart of Canadians. Piercing the Shield is available at the Finnish Book Store or by contacting Leo Hunnakko at 577-7484 or leoh@tbaytel.net The Walleye
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T-BAY 2017 - print ad - 4.417” x 11”- v1 (Oct 17)
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Join the Thunder Bay business community for some festive beer and cheer! Saturday, December 2, 2017 6 p.m. Sleeping Giant Brewing Company 712 Macdonell St., Thunder Bay
Join us for an evening of craft beer tasting, silent auction, dinner and live music.
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CityScene
Creating a Space for Lost Voices Thunder Bay’s Indigenous Knowledge Conference By Lindsay Campbell
T
his month, people will have a unique opportunity in Thunder Bay to increase their cultural awareness at the very first Indigenous Knowledge Conference. This event will provide our first peoples with a platform to pass on their history, knowledge and experiences to others in Thunder Bay and across the country. Organizer Michelle Richmond-Saravia says there’s a need for an event that can promote growth in the understanding of Indigenous people. The primary purpose of the conference is to provide individuals from various disciplines with material that they can apply to their everyday practice.
Dr. Leroy Little Bear
“There’s a lot of history here and people are not informed about the history and how it impacts current social reality,” she says. “Thunder Bay has been through so many struggles, especially with the Indigenous community… I guess this is my way of saying ‘hello, let’s start thinking about government and about leadership in a different way, through knowledge building.’” The speaker line-up will include Dr. Leroy Little Bear, Dr. Cynthia WesleyEsquimaux, Kelvin Redsky, Lorna McCue, Peter Moses, Jana-Rae Yerxa, Stephanie MacLaurin, Aleksa Sherman, and Richmond-Saravia herself. Headliner Dr. Little Bear is an elder, a residential school survivor, and member of the Blackfoot
Confederacy. He has been instrumental in both national change and governance. Richmond-Saravia says conferencegoers should expect an atmosphere that is interactive with discussions covering a wide range of themes. As the founder of beSuperior Consulting, Richmond-Saravia has dedicated the past three years to creating spaces for the Indigenous population. She says the event will be an extension of her company’s mandate. “We [Indigenous people] come from a different background, we don’t have that privilege. We don’t have that voice a lot of times. We’re silenced,” she explains. “When we remain in these fears of silence and not talking, and being second rate, we put ourselves in a dehumanizing mentality as well. You really have to use your skills and your strengths.” Richmond-Saravia, a second-generation residential school survivor, says this event is also a step in the right direction for decolonization. “We like to think in terms of building the next seven generations,” she says. “I’m doing this work as a way to set a kind of precedent for change for how we think.” The conference will run at the Airlane Hotel from the evening of November 14 until November 16. Those interested in registering can go to besuperiorevents.com
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vice r e S d e n o i ash F d l ! y O g ’s o l y o a n d r h e c t Yes n Te r e d o M ’s y with Toda Now available rusatlpkrnooowfi-hnogw e uct with th d o r p r io r e up
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The Walleye
CityScene
The Foundry's Wednesday Night Trivia Your Weekly Pop Culture Throwdown
Story by Mikael Mintenko, Photo by Scott Hobbs
S Kim McKenzie and Chris Barstow
ince its inception in September, local entertainment hub The Foundry has become the place to be on Wednesday nights for a fun-filled evening of trivia, designer cocktails, and poutine specials. This free event, sponsored by Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, is guaranteed to be a good time whether you swing by as a single player or with a larger team. Topics so far have included Thunder Bay history, Star Wars, 90s music, The Simpsons, and Harry Potter, with the latter boasting the biggest turnout yet at 150 people. Prizes for the event have included a Spice World poster with the themed prize pack for 90s music trivia, and a Quidditch set, Deathly Hallows pocket watch, and a Hogwarts banner for Harry Potter trivia. If you come in last you can still go home with the GAH! prize, such as a child’s Spider-Man costume with “Spider-Man” crossed out and “Harry Potter” in its place. As host Chris Barstow puts it, “it’s all part of the fun and about keeping people entertained.”
Barstow, a wedding MC and DJ for the last 12 years, is the event’s host, fancying himself a connoisseur of gaudy Saul Goodman suit combinations. Along with his girlfriend Kim McKenzie, they continue to come up with themes and questions to keep the momentum going. When talking about future plans for the weekly event, Barstow says, “For the future we've got Seinfeld, Friends, hockey, Game Of Thrones, Lord Of The Rings, Christmas, and so on. We're going to play it by ear and see which ones really grab a crowd and do encore nights, so if anyone was unable to make it to trivia (a handful of people said they couldn't get out of work for Simpsons trivia), we'll be giving them another shot at it… bigger prizes based on crowd size, lightning rounds for bonus prizes, and some other ideas we're keeping secret while we tweak them a bit.” Check out The Foundry on Facebook or stop by for some grub and suds. The event runs every Wednesday with registration at 7:30 pm, game begins at 8 pm.
Give them something tasteful this Christmas
now accepting Christmas party reservations
Gift Certificates available in any denomination
622-2478 555 Dunlop Street www.bistroone.ca The Walleye
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CityScene
Stuff We Like
Growler
For the Dreariest Month
Dawson Trail Craft Brewery
By Amy Jones
905 Copper Crescent We all know you want to go to the bar to meet your friends for a pint. But it just started snowing. And you’ve been in your pajamas for three days. And there’s football on television. And you don’t need to go to the bar to get a pint of Dawson Trail beer—you can pour your own in the comfort of your own kitchen.
S
elf-care. It’s more than just a buzzword, it’s an important part of mental health, and a necessity for those of us disheartened by the prospect of facing another long, cold winter. Whatever it is that you do to keep yourself healthy and happy through November as the days grow shorter and winter approaches, we at The Walleye are here for you. Here is Stuff We Like for the Dreariest Month.
$12-15 (without deposit)
Succulent Terrarium Bowl
Twenty Years on Snowshoes Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop nowwwriters.ca It’s the first storm of the season and the power goes out right in the middle of your Star Wars marathon. But you know what doesn’t require electricity? Books. So light a candle, pull up a blanket, and post up on the couch with an honest-to-goodness paperback like Twenty Years on Snowshoes, a collection of stories from some of NWO’s finest writers.
Thuja Floral Design 285 Bay Street Longing for some more green in your life during these dark days, but lacking in the green thumb department? This succulent terrarium bowl is not only beautiful, but easy to care for, making it the perfect way to get your nature fix.
$20
$40
Pet Adoption Thunder Bay District Humane Society
Lavender Aroma Jar
Sweet Dreams Tea Sampler
1535 Rosslyn Road If you’re looking for a distraction to get you through the winter months, a new furry friend might just be the answer. The Humane Society has all kinds of adorable cats and dogs who would love to cuddle up on the couch with you and bingewatch Game of Thrones as the days get shorter and the snow starts falling.
International House of Tea 205 South Algoma Street Circadian rhythms thrown off by the time change, the weather, or the endless dark and dreary days? Float off to sleep with this selection of herbs and tea blends to help you hibernate throughout the winter.
$Various
Orysi Aromatherapy & Body Care Thunder Bay Country Market The scent of lavender, infused in the oil contained in this biodegradable sponge—is said to have properties that relieve high blood pressure, insomnia, headaches, and depression—sound like anyone you know?
$11
$24.99
Theatre Tickets
Birding by Ear Workshop
Magnus Theatre
North House Folk School
10 South Algoma Street Even though some of Thunder Bay’s outdoor activities are inaccessible during the winter, the city has just as many indoor activities to get you out of the house during the darkest days of the year—Magnus Theatre, for instance. Drew Hayden Taylor’s Only Drunks and Children Tell The Truth runs until November 11. Check it out!
500 West Highway 61, Grand Marais Instead of hiding away from fall, take advantage of all that autumn has to offer and head on down to the North House Folk School for a workshop on something that celebrates the season—like this workshop that teaches you to identify rare birds that pass our way during the late fall migration.
$29-$50
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The Walleye
$85
MOREVEMBER! STRAY CAT AND MAD DOGS—NORTHERN LIGHTS
57TH SEASON: A BRAND NEW BEGINNING!
Friday and Saturday, November 3 & 4, THE ITALIAN CULTURAL CENTRE/ 7:30 The ultrasmooth Martin Blanchet Quintet plays with the TBSO, and brand new Conductor Paul Haas leads the orchestra through a hand-picked selection of pieces guaranteed to delight and surprise you!
KALEIDOSCOPE—CLASSICAL +
Wednesday, November 15, THE HILLDALE LUTHERAN CHURCH/ 7:30 The evening starts off with Britten’s Simple Symphony, then turns to a brilliant young Canadian composer, Astopov, and his Ictus solis, followed by David’s Concertino featuring trombonist Erik Hongisto.
CANADA REMEMBERS—POPS
Saturday, November 18, THE AUDITORIUM/ 7:30 Beloved conductor Brian Jackson promises to pack the house with Pops favourites. Music includes pieces from Anne of Green Gables, a musical tribute to the great Vera Lynn, a romp throught Pomp and Circumstance and much more. Don’t miss this wonderful, nostalgic concert!
VISIT THE AUDITORIUM BOX OFFICE or go to
TICKETS.TBCA.COM
Tuesday, November 28, BIGHT RESTAURANT/ 7:30 The social event of 2017. Food and martini pairings and the TBSO! Tickets limited. $100. Only at tbso.ca/tickets or 626.TBSO
Season sponsor: TBT Engineeering | Funding from City of Thunder Bay, Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council | Broadcast Sponsor: Acadia Broadcasting | Series sponsors: Chronicle-Journal, TBayTel, The Walleye and Confederation College
Walleye 2.889” (w) x 5.43” (h)
Are you 55+? Retired or thinking of retirement? Come explore the creative side of life. For ONE WONDERFUL DAY we are gathering music, drama, dance, visual art & crafts and writing activities in ONE PLACE. Try something new! Reconnect with YOUR creative side.
CREATIVE
engAGING ARTS FAIR
Date: Wednesday, November 8 Time: 2 to 7 pm Heritage Building C.L.E. Admission is ‘pay what you can’ Suggested $2
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March Break Camp • Drop In •Classes 512 Marks St. S. ( FWCI, parking lot off of Marks St.) P. (807) 683-3730 • Day Programs • Birthday PA Parties 807-683-3730 •Way Summer Bounce• March YourBreak toCamp Giant Gymnastics Today! Camp • The highest Level NCCP • PA Day Programs The 512 Marks StWalleye S. (FWCI) certified gymnastics (parking off Marks St.) • Summer Camp coaches in Thunder Bay 807-683-3730
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Make it “Thyme� For Personal as well as Business Catering Services
We will be offering our Amuse Bouche to all customers to whet their appetites prior to their dinner.
Live music every Friday and Saturday evening Now taking bookings for Christmas parties
Open from 5-10 PM Monday to Saturday Until Christmas
Beginning November 1st we will be offering our Prix Fixe meals every Mon, Tues and Wed for $ 30.00
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The Walleye
Thyme accepts and recommends reservations.
311 East Victoria Ave. Tel: 286-6778 www.thymefinedining.com
CityScene
Browse Our Entire Art Inventory Anytime, Anywhere at www.chenierfinearts.ca
Annie Rodrigue
Mixed Media on canvas - 30”x48”
Dawson Trail Craft Brewery's George Renner and Sleeping Giant Brewery's Maureen Mills
Festive Beers and Cheers
Jingle Brews Holiday Party Returns in Support of the Arthritis Society By Andrea Stach
H
ard to believe, but it is already time to start planning for those holiday get togethers. If it is your turn to plan the company party, or you have been asked to host your book club’s festive night on the town, look no further than the Arthritis Society’s Second Annual Jingle Brews. The event started last year as a way for small-and medium-sized businesses to celebrate the holiday season without anyone really having to plan a party. Running this year on December 2 at 6 pm at the Sleeping Giant Brewery Taphouse, Jingle Brews promises to be a great evening of food, drink, and merriment. The talented chefs from El Tres and Bight Restaurants will be using their culinary expertise to create four delicious and unique food stations. Each course will then be paired with a glass of beer made by either Sleeping Giant or Dawson Trail Brewery who have teamed
up to sponsor the event by donating all of the tastings. There will be also be a fully stocked bar with a host of other spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. After dinner, the celebration will continue with some live local music and a fun silent auction. Bidding on items might even be a great way to get your holiday shopping done. Jingle Brews is one of the main fundraising events for the year for the Arthritis Society. Funds raised from events such as these go to support programs and services that assist the one in five people living with arthritis in our community. So not only is Jingle Brews a fabulous way to celebrate the holiday season with friends and coworkers, but it makes it easy to be charitable during the season of giving. Tickets to Jingle Brews are $70—get one free ticket when you purchase ten or more. Call Shawna Beaulieu at 345-9535 to purchase or reserve yours today. The Walleye
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CityScene every year at the store and who in turn provide used items for the project. “Customers have embraced the opportunity to give,” notes Jon. In 2016, local students jumped in and collected coats in their classrooms for donation, and local businesses such as Tbaytel have donated toques for every jacket donated. The project has also branched out to embrace the region. The North of Superior Healthcare Group collects coats in Terrace Bay, Schreiber, and Marathon, sending them to Thunder Bay for distribution at no charge by Courtesy Freight Systems. Take a look through your closet for that gently used coat and some winter accessories that you can spare and help spread the warmth this winter with Gear Up For Outdoors. Your heart will feel the warmth of fulfilment when you help provide comfort to those in need in our community.
Spread the Warmth this Winter Annual Coat Drive Returns
Story by Krista Power, Photo by Marty Mascarin
F
or eleven years, Gear Up For Outdoors has been helping to keep people warm in our community by collecting donations of coats and winter accessories from residents of Thunder Bay and region. The initiative began when one of the staff came up with a simple, idealistic notion: perhaps local residents would be willing to donate their old coats to benefit someone who desperately needed one. This idea has blossomed into the Spread Warmth Winter Coat Drive, which provides welcome support for those in need. The premise is simple: from October 2 to December 16, you can drop off your clean and ready-to-wear winter coat and accessories at Gear Up For Outdoors. In acknowledgement of your generosity, Gear Up will provide you with a 15% discount on the purchase of a new winter coat and enter your name in a draw for one of six $100 gift certificates from The Keg Steakhouse and Bar.
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Gear Up for Outdoors then coordinates distribution of the winter outerwear among Shelter House, Precious Bundles, and Grace Place—charitable organizations that in turn provide more than 1000 coats and winter accessories to children and adults across our city. All coats and accessories, including mitts, scarves, hats, and neckwarmers are greatly appreciated by those who need comfort and warmth during the chilly winter months. Joe Berardi and Jon and Sandra Wynn from Gear Up are all very thankful to be able participate in this project, especially after a tour of Shelter House in 2016 opened their eyes to the needs in our community. “It is heartwarming to see people come together and help by providing a coat for someone who needs one,” says Berardi. They also acknowledge the loyal customers who purchase new jackets
(L-R) Jon Wynn, Joe Berardi, and Sandra Wynn
Gear Up For Outdoors is located at 894 Alloy Place. For more information please call 345-0001 or visit gear-up.com.
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CityScene
Remembering the Great War Courtesy of Thunder Bay Public Library
World War I Thunder Bay Centennial Project
By Jesse Roberts, Thunder Bay Public Library
141st Battalion on the march
By November 1917, the conflict that most people initially expected to be over by Christmas of 1914 had taken on global significance and touched the lives of everyone in the twin cities. During the first three years of the war, local newspapers reported the deaths of 367 individuals and published over 800 letters written
home from the front lines. Northwestern Ontario recruitment levels often surpassed national expectations, and military activity on the homefront began immediately with the 96th Regiment appointed to guard the grain elevators and terminals that made up so much of Fort William’s economy. The bulk of expenses were expected to be covered by elevator owners. Regiments utilized training facilities located in Gresley Park in Port Arthur throughout the war years. Local military personnel were also regularly showcased in the media for their achievements, such as Ernest Potter, W. J. Huston, and C. P. J. O’Kelly. Municipal activity in Port
This month we remember the events that occurred a century ago. The World War I Thunder Bay Centennial Project is available online at tbpl.ca/worldwarone for anyone interested in learning more about the role of Thunder Bay in the First World War.
Arthur and Fort William reflected an ongoing commitment to the developing needs of both the national war effort and local interests. City councils addressed or discussed matters related to job security for city employees who enlisted, economic stability, and more. Of particular note was the topic of financial aid to organizations connected to the war effort. Requests to council occurred on a regular basis and ranged in size and context. By the fall of 1917, the Port Arthur City Council was also fielding requests for the donation of aeroplanes to the Canadian Aviation Fund, along with multiple organizations and community groups seeking the free use of city-owned spaces for meetings and other work.
Courtesy of Thunder Bay Public Library
O
ne hundred years ago, November 11 was another day in the agonizing conflict known as the Great War. Remembrance Day originated as Armistice Day, which was inaugurated in 1919 to commemorate the end of hostilities in the First World War, a time during which the communities of Fort William and Port Arthur endured immense change and loss.
The war experience for those not at the front line included a great deal of social activity. Public talks and lectures were given by those who had returned home, such as the one presented in July 1917 by Capt. R. J. Manion, who had been prominently featured in both local newspapers that summer and would go on to publish A Surgeon in Arms in 1918. Dances, teas, and socials were held throughout the war years to raise funds for various causes. A full-scale carnival was held in June 1917 in aid of the Canadian Prisoners of War and the Great War Veterans’ Association. Further work at home included food control measures and the introduction of the Victory Bond campaign to increase resources available at the front.
Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre Pursuing Life… Engaging, Exciting, Energizing Registration for Winter programs begins on Wednesday, November 29th 56
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Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre 1914 W. Arthur St. | 700 River St. | 684-3066
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We’re Back!
The Screen for Life Coach will be back in Thunder Bay starting November 1st.
Book your breast, cervical and colon cancer screening appointment today! Men can also get their colon cancer screening kits from the Screen for Life Coach. Call to book today! (807) 684-7777 or 1-800-461-7031
For the complete travel schedule, visit www.tbrhsc.net/screenforlife. Follow us on Facebook by searching ‘Screen for Life Coach Northwest’.
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CityScene
Exploring our Neighbourhoods
Vickers Heights Story by Tiffany Jarva and Rebekah Skochinski, Photos by Marlene Wandel
I
t is hard not to want to live in Vickers Heights, especially on a sunny autumn day when winding roads and the Kaministiquia River are edged with bursting colours. We suppose this is a semi-rural neighbourhood, however it feels very rural with all its secret laneways, dreamy private no-exit roads, views of the river and the Nor’westers, and horses at the end of McLaren Road. Some homes are cottage-like, peeking from behind tall pine and maple trees. Some are ranchers stretched out on tall embankments, water shimmering below. And some are dream homes with sweeping verandahs, steep winding staircases, fairy tale-like gazebos, and viewing decks. We are sure we’ve blurred the lines a little, loosely mapping out the neighbourhood as south from the airport, west of Highway 61, and on both sides of the Kaministiquia River. If you’ve only been out this way to visit Fort William Historical Park, you may want to consider making it a destination for a lovely weekend drive.
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1 1. Paddling & River Houses
2. Community Centre
The true beauty of this neighbourhood is the meandering 95-kilometre Kaministiquia River. The name of the river is an Ojibway word that loosely translates to river with islands. Historically, Ojibway canoes first travelled the Kam, followed by the fur traders because of its important junction at Lake Superior. Today, houses back onto this stretch of the river and many canoes, kayaks, and other leisure boats travel up and down the waterway.
The Vickers Heights Community Centre hosts reunions and dinners, and has a playground, a baseball field, and two outdoor skating rinks. We love the Little Free Library just out front that the neighbour across the street constructed for all to use, and the bright yellow notice that hunter education and firearms safety was in progress. Welcome to Northwestern Ontario.
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3. Laneway
Especially off Broadway and Victor Street, there is a myriad of dead-end streets and magicalseeming laneways like this one.
CityScene
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4. Mountain View and St. Patrick’s Cemeteries
If Thunder Bay were to start embracing the idea of resting grounds as multipurpose spaces like Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Toronto, Mountain View and St. Patrick’s may be the perfect contenders. It’s a peaceful place to stroll, with views of Mount McKay and the Nor’westers. There’s loads of history, with the Feldkanone, a rare World War I artillery piece in the military plot, and other markers with prominent south side names like McKellar and McCluskey. Thunder Bay Historical Society notes that Mountain View came to be when Fort William’s first cemetery, which was closer to the mouth of the Kam, had to be moved because of increased industry. The bodies were removed and taken to the new site (owned by Peter and John McKellar at the time). The oldest known grave that was moved dates back to 1831.
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5. Riverdale
This is a view of Riverdale Road from Victor Street. At the end of Riverdale Road (not to be mistaken for Riverdale West), there is a small boat launch—a great place to put-in and see Fort William Historical Park from the water, perhaps imagining life as a voyageur or simply checking out the cool staircases, viewing decks, and riverside homes.
6. Fries
It’s nice to know that even if you live semirurally and you don’t want to cook dinner, there’s a burger joint just around the corner. The OG OTC burger and fries continue to impress, but if you feel like switching it up the Philly burger is definitely a worthy contender.
7. Condos It’s nice to know that if you want to come and share a slice of this semirural living, you can still opt for it condostyle.
8. Train
As picturesque as the neighborhood is, it is grounding to know that one is never too far from visual reminders, like the train tracks and mill, of our city’s resourcebased roots.
9. Verandah
One of our favourite finds was coming across Victor Street off of Broadway—a road that winds from high to low, eventually coming to a point where it ends and the Kaministiquia River can be seen from either side of the road.
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THE
FOUNDRY Voted #1 Music Venue MON
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Music
Symphony Spotlight
PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS
Paul Haas VISIT MAGNUSTHEATRE.COM CALL (807)345-5552
Music Director, TBSO Story by Kris Ketonen, Photo by Superior Images Born: San Francisco Instrument: Violin, piano, percussion, and vocals Age you started to study music: 5 How long have you been with TBSO: 2017 is my first season What’s on your personal playlist: Sigur Rós, Radiohead, Björk, Mahler, Stauss, Tchaikovsky, and John Adams
W
hen Paul Haas takes the stage with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra this season, he aims to be an open book. “I wear my heart on my sleeve,” Haas says. “I’m very excited about making music and about the shared energies amongst the orchestra and our audience. I know we can increase the communication of those energies in the concert hall, and I know that’s the key to having a devoted and passionate audience, not to mention a happy orchestra.” The San Francisco-born Haas fell in love with conducting during his undergrad days at Yale, starting his own orchestra—called the Jonathan Edwards Chamber Players—and conducting the group until his graduation. But his passion for the art remained, and he
pursued conducting studies at the conservatory in Dresden, Germany. “It was there that I began to realize that I had something special that I could offer—something that went beyond right/wrong notes, intonation, dynamics, and note lengths,” Haas says. “I began to discover colors and emotions in the music, various energies that were possible to convey and explore. At that point I was hooked.” Haas has two main goals for the TBSO. One is to really show Thunder Bay that the symphony is something to be proud of. Haas says he’d like to have city residents “automatically think of the TBSO when they’re asked what they love about Thunder Bay.” Secondly, Haas, of course, wants to make good music alongside the TBSO’s musicians. “That’s really the draw to me about this orchestra,” Haas says. “The musicians are really wonderful—excellent musicians and good colleagues. On top of that, they all demonstrably care about the TBSO and its future, which is a special thing.” For more information about the new TBSO season, visit tbso.ca.
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Music
Catching Phelans
Andrew Phelan and Peach Pit at The Foundry Story by Steph Skavinski, Photo by Sarah McPherson
A
ndrew Phelan’s solo recordings, when it’s just him and his guitar, have a sound that soothes your soul and wraps it in a snug blanket and gives it a mug of hot cocoa. Almost like Sufjan Stevens, minus the wildly depressing lyrics. This didn’t prepare me for the much bigger sound he had in his live show. He played to a small but appreciative crowd at The Foundry on October 2, with the addition of a bassist and drummer. His songs kept their unique spirit, but were given a much fuller sound with a lot of added depth and a new bluesy character. He even treated us to a cover of Sheryl Crow’s “If It Makes You Happy.” Phelan, formerly of The River and the Road, is currently touring across Canada with Vancouver indie-pop band Peach Pit. As band members from Peach Pit moved aside tables for would-be dancers, Phelan, a native of Australia transplanted to the west coast of Canada, took the time to bust some myths
about his homeland between busting out the great tunes. Among other anecdotes, we learned that not a single shrimp was ever on a barbie—ever. At times, his smooth, expressive vocals and interesting melodic lines reminded me of Royal Wood, especially in “Young Hearts.” At other times, he used the full potential of the band and created a much heavier sound, momentarily leaning into a rock/blues style, and revelling in it. It seemed clear that most of the fairly young crowd were there to see Peach Pit, who took the stage after Phelan. The boys of Peach Pit gave an exciting performance, despite the small size of the audience. With fun, pop-sounding guitar riffs, a little bit of synth and a whole lot of hair flopping, the guys entertained and impressed. Between their solid performance, funny stage banter and their distinctive outfits, they put on a live show I would go see again. Keep an eye out for these guys.
A True Neighbourhood Pub Now booking reservations for your festive celebration Ask us about our Holiday Gift Packages
295 Bay Street 62
The Walleye
344-6600
facebook.com/Madhouse instagram.com/madhouse_tbay
Music
A Legacy of Blues
Shawn Holt and the Teardrops
Story by Ken Wright, Photo by Linda Cunningham
A
promise is a promise. Shawn Holt made the commitment of his life when he assured his father, Magic Slim (aka Morris Holt) that he would carry on the legacy of his band, the Teardrops, after the legendary Chicago blues man passed away. On November 10, Thunder Bay blues fans are able to see Holt and the Teardrops in action as they are set to perform in the city. A self-taught guitarist, the
younger Holt developed his unusual style of plucking out the notes with a thumb pick and fingers while mimicking licks from his father's albums in his bedroom. Holt also eschews effect pedals, achieving a raw, unadulterated tone by plugging his Gibson Les Paul straight into the amplifier. Holt was just 17 when he toured as rhythm guitarist alongside his father and uncle Nick in
DRY & SECURE
Tel: (807) 344-3340 (877) 351-5604 Fax: (807) 285-3409 383 Fort William Rd., Thunder Bay Ontario P7B 2Z4 dcperformance@shaw.ca
the original Teardrops. Escaping the seedier temptations of the Windy City, he moved to Lincoln, Nebraska with his mother. There he honed his craft and personalized his sound leading his own groups, most notably Lil' Slim & the Back-Alley Blues Band. He rejoined his father in 2013, opening for the iconic Johnny Winter during what would prove to be Magic Slim's final tour. His tenure at the
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helm of the Teardrops got off to an auspicious beginning with the release of Daddy Told Me. Recorded in Chicago, the album reached number one on the Living Blues radio chart and won both a Blues Music Award and a Blues Blast Music Award for Best New Artist Debut. The band has toured Brazil, France, and Denmark. Holt continues his father's Chicago blues heritage musically,
of course, but equally important are the lessons they impart. Less is more, never rush, write what's in your heart, and entertain the people. "That's what he taught me," Holt says.
Port Arthur Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 November 10 fathunderbaybluessociety.ca
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CAMPING • SHOPPING • VACATIONING • BEST FIT • BEST PROTECTION • BEST APPEARANCE The Walleye
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Music
TBShows.com presents ON THE SCENE
When the Smoke has Cleared
BURGER
MONTH
Story by Jimmy Wiggins, Photo by Ascension
Band: Altamadum
their own style.
Hometown: Thunder Bay
When thinking of what to call the group early on, the boys had included "Ultimatum” on a shortlist of names, but after finding out it was already being used by a thrash metal band from New Mexico, they decided on a modified spelling and Altamadum was born.
Genre: Rock/alt-rock Recommended if you like: Avenged Sevenfold, Iron Maiden, and Three Days Grace Online: Altamadum.com
A
ltamadum started out as most local bands do: a project among high school friends. Nearly a decade later they have evolved into a band whose music has reached audiences far and wide on a regional and international level. Sam Mucha (rhythm guitar/ vocals), Cam Thomas (lead guitar), James Cole (bass), and Brendan Byers (drums) of Altamadum have a well-rounded approach to writing music, each taking influences from hard rock, glam, metal, pop, and techno that meld together to create
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No strangers to the studio, the boys of Altamadum have written a handful of recordings including We Are… (2013), Levels (2014), Anybody Out There EP (2017), as well as A Monument To Time (2017), which will be released later this month. A lyric video for the track “When The Smoke Has Cleared” is available on YouTube. All their works are self-produced at the Thunder Sound Studio in Thunder Bay. In 2014 Altamadum hit the road following the release of Levels
Extreme
and toured Ontario promoting the album. In 2015 the band hit their first break and signed to Pennsylvania-based record label, From The Depths Entertainment. They’ve since been featured in magazines Pop Vulture (Los Angeles), and Stencil (U.K.), with an upcoming release in Fireworks Magazine (U.K.). This past spring, Altamadum took over U.K. airwaves and were featured on 98.8 Castle FM in Scotland, which included an extensive interview with the band and an album review of A Monument To Time. Their music is now available on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Google Play, and other multimedia sources.
Black Pirates Pub November 24 TBShows.com
4 weeks. 4 battling burgers. Find your favourite starting Nov. 1
28 Cumberland Street S. redlionsmokehouse.ca
SALWEEN RESTAURANT THAI & KAREN CUISINE
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807-285-8600
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DUELLING PIANOS RETURNS FRIDAY’S
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If you are looking for a change and have the following qualifications, please contact Donna Yocom at (807) 345-6363 for more information or email your resume to Investors Group Securities Inc. at larry.lovis@investorsgroup.com. • Licensed through IIROC with all applicable courses • CFP Designation, or in the process of obtaining it • 5 years industry experience preferred • Strong communication and marketing skills • Highly motivated who can work autonomously or as part of a team • A Self Starter • A career minded professional Financial Planner This is a full-time opportunity to establish a variable-income and self-employed business in association with Investors Group.
201 South Syndicate More info: 807.626.8002 » ROCKHOUSETBAY
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• Local Harvest veggies from Debruins, Roots to Harvest Belluz, Mile Hill Farms and Root Cellar Gardens • Slate River Dairy • Thunder Oak Cheese • Big Lake Pasta • Brule Creek Farm • Chinos sauces • Chocolate Cow • Forrest Beef • Little Harriet's
Open 9am - 7pm Monday - Friday and Saturday 9am - 6pm
And a whole lot more! Juice Bar, Natural & Organic Foods Farmer's Market, Meats & produce Gluten Free/vegan/raw Foods Cruelty Free Body Care Eco-Friendly Household Products Natural & Organic Pet Foods
• Tina Panetta Body Products • Thunder Bay Olivine Tasting Bar • 180 Foods Chaga • Rose N Crantz & Wolfhead Coffee • Bears Bees & Honey • Bay Meats • Tarrymore Farms 160 Waterloo Street N., Thunder Bay, ON • My Pride Farm • Crazy Good Spices • The Murillo Breadmaker • Country Plaid Farm
www.vitalitynaturalfoods.com
807-622-FOOD (3663)
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Music
The Angies are Memphis-Bound Band to represent Thunder Bay at International Blues Challenge By Kris Ketonen
I
t didn’t take long for the members of Thunder Bay-based Rolling Stones cover band The Angies to realize they had something really special. Two gigs, to be exact. The band formed just a few months ago, an initiative of drummer Jenny McPhail as a way to make a lifelong musical dream come true. “Ever since I was a kid, I was like ‘I’m going to be in a Stones cover band,” McPhail says. “One of my other bands was going on hiatus, and I just really wanted to play.” Bassist Jennifer Swistun-Wolski credits McPhail for putting the band together. “[McPhail] was the one who single-handedly went to our shows,” she says. “She scouted out every
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single one of us, and asked us to be a part of this. And within seconds, there was chemistry.” That’s evident, given the success The Angies have seen in their short history. The band—which also includes Samantha Chong, Nancy Freeborn, and Mary Walker—played its first gig at the Cover Show in June. That went so well that they decided to play their second gig shortly after, signing up for the Thunder Bay Blues Society’s International Blues Challenge Competition. And The Angies won the band category. The win earned the band a spot in the Blues Foundation’s International Blues Challenge, which takes place in Memphis in January and will feature more than 260 blues acts from around the world.
“There’s going to be a lot of talent there,” Swistun-Wolski says. “We’re just really excited to represent Thunder Bay… I’ve never been a part of anything like that, where they judge you right down to your clothing, the way you walk on the stage, to what you can offer every single person in the crowd.” The Angies are starting to prepare for the trip, playing a fundraiser later this month and writing some original music. “It’s been an interesting time,” McPhail says. “I can’t wait to see what happens next.” The Angies will play their fundraising gig on November 17 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 on Van Norman Street. For more information, find The Angies on Facebook.
Crepes on Saturday and Sundays from 12-3pm
200 Red River Road Thunder Bay
Let’s GET Festive!
The holiday season is an enchanted time in Cook County. Catch the holiday spirit early this year by attending one of our magical events and find artisan gifts for everyone on your shopping list. visitcookcounty.com/holiday
EVENTS: Friday, November 24
All Day • Free skiing at Lutsen Mountains (reservations required) 5:30 • Oh Ole Night Parade, Tree Lighting & Fireworks, Grand Marais 8:30 • New Standards Holiday Show, Papa Charlie’s-Lutsen Mountains
Saturday, November 25
All day • Light up Lutsen with Tree Lighting, Christmas Carols & more
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Music
Baroque Brilliance
Consortium Aurora Borealis Presents Italian Themed Baroque Concert By Ayano Hodouchi Dempsey
B
rilliant Canadian violinist Jeremy Bell returns to Thunder Bay on November 25 for a performance with the Consortium Aurora Borealis.
Choose styles that work easily for you. J. B. Evans carefully chooses unique brands and collections that can be incorporated into your wardrobe.
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Mon-Wed, Fri & Sat 9-5:30 and Thurs 9-8
Bell has been performing in Thunder Bay since 2002 and is one of the most sought-after string players in the country. A violinist with exceptional clarity of tone and keen focus, his repertoire spans the centuries, from Baroque to contemporary. His work goes far beyond the classical genre—he has performed Cuban jazz with Hilario Durán, collaborated with pipa (Chinese lute) virtuoso Wong Chi-ching, and even rapper Jay-Z. He is also a founding member of the Penderecki String Quartet, and has come here with his ensemble as well. The upcoming concert will be his 11th in the city, and he says coming back to Thunder Bay is always a treat. While audiences in big cities such as Toronto tend to feel anonymous, the Consortium, in its 39th year, has a devoted core audience and “the moment I walk onto the stage, I feel like I’m going to have a good night,” Bell says. Since encountering the Quebec chamber orchestra Les Violons du Roy in his early 20s, he has embraced their hybrid approach to period performance. Using Baroque bows with modern instruments,
he adopts the spirit of Baroque music without the fuss over technicalities such as pitch and authenticity. This approach, he says, works well in a concert like this one, where he collaborates with local musicians who might not specialize in period instruments. Aptly named “Baroque Brilliance,” the concert will feature some of the most exciting works by Italian composers of the Baroque era. The evening starts with Giovanni Legrenzi, takes a foray into France with Jean-Marie Leclair, and comes back to Italy with Vivaldi. Vigorous and intense, La Follia is based on a popular theme in D-minor. Some of you may recognize the solemn and dramatic chords from popular compositions by Liszt or Rachmaninoff. Next, his concerto in D major will showcase not only Bell, but also three more violinists, all from the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. Bell then chose Giuseppe Tartini’s Pastorale, which he calls “highly evocative and colorful,” followed by the bright and luminous Pietro Locatelli. The evening will close with Vivaldi again.
St. Paul’s United Church November 25, 8 pm (pre-concert talk at 7:30 pm) consortiumauroraborealis.org The Walleye
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Music
Burnin' to the Sky
Remembering Tom Petty By Gord Ellis
M
y first memory of hearing Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers dates to when I was in high school. The year was 1979, and the song was “Don’t Do Me Like That.” In those days, the two dominant forces on Top 40 radio were disco and rock. Punk was the underground music of the time, and although largely absent from radio, it was having an impact. The lean, direct sound of “Don’t Do Me Like That” was a long way from the Sex Pistols, but to my teenage ears, it sounded fresh, exciting, and vaguely punky. In fact, in 1978, Petty and his band had been touring with the Ramones, so it wasn’t just me making the connection. That song was the first breakout hit for Petty and his band, and the start of a long time musical journey for millions of people, including this columnist. In retrospect, Petty was no punk. In fact, there are few artists who wore their classic rock and roll influences so obviously on their sleeve as Petty and his band did. Play any Tom Petty album and you will hear echoes of Bob Dylan, The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, The Rolling Stones, The Who, J.J. Cale, The Animals, and a whole lot of blues. Yet one of the
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amazing things about Petty was his ability to take all those influences and sound exactly like himself. Petty’s voice, although remarkably Dylan-esque (with a large twist of Roger McGuinn) was more radio friendly and pop edged than Bobby’s ever was. Petty could snarl and whine for sure, but he also could sing a straight ahead pop rock song with a lot of sweetness. Yet what really set Petty apart, at least in my opinion, was his power as a songwriter. He could create anthemic, powerful rock, with some of the simplest and most subtle chord structures and words. His first “solo” album, produced brilliantly by Jeff Lynne, is a showcase for Petty’s songwriting. This album is where you can find both of Petty’s signature songs, “I Won’t Back Down” and “Free Fallin’.” If you can play a basic six string guitar, you can play these songs. They are marvels of simplicity. Yet both songs convey very strong emotions. One is about resilience and an unwillingness to waver despite all odds, the other is a hymn to letting go. Both themes were regularly explored by Petty during his career, but never so effectively. The other thing about Petty that never wavered was his inability to ride a
trend or bow to a record company demand. Petty and the Heartbreakers never fell into the 80s teased-up hair and synth drum trap. Petty didn’t record a power ballad or do a do a duet with Celine Dion. He was true to himself throughout his 40-year career, and brought the Heartbreakers with him for the whole ride. Petty was a person who seemed normal, a regular guy who happened to be one of the world's biggest rock stars. When he was in the Travelling Wilburys, you almost got the sense he would turn your way and mouth “OMG.” Petty was
a rock star you could imagine having a beer with. I was lucky enough to see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers twice. The first time was in 1986, when he and his band backed Bob Dylan in Minneapolis. The second time was in Winnipeg in 2010, during the Mojo tour. What I remember about the show in 1986 was how Petty was able to whip the crowd up into a frenzy with his opening act, and made Dylan perform like he never had before or since. Even from a distance, you could see Petty and his band beaming as Dylan broke out rock star poses and threw his head back during the rockers. Petty and his band were backing their hero and could not have been happier. The Winnipeg Tom Petty show may be the best concert I’ve ever attended. It was during that show that I really realized the reach and power of Tom Petty’s music. The 20-something women sitting in front of us were in tears during “Learning to Fly,” and the whole MTS Centre became a giant choir during “Free Fallin’.” Petty, smiling and gregarious on stage, would stand with his arms open as the love and the cheers of the crowd washed over him. There was nothing show biz about it. He loved his people and we all loved him. When Petty died of a massive heart attack on October 2, 2017, he had just finished a sold out 40th anniversary tour with the Heartbreakers. The outpouring of sadness and shock over his sudden death has been remarkable. Tom Petty was an artist whose songbook and performances meant many things to many people all around the globe. His passing hit me in a way that I’ve not felt for many artists. The world just seems little less sunny without him.
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Rotarians of Thunder Bay Present
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An exhibition and sale of arts, crafts and festive treats made by artists, artisans and specialty food vendors of Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario. [Proceeds support local charitable organizations]
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Music
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No Slowing Down for Jeff Heisholt
Thunder Bay-Born Musician Counts Trews, Terra Lightfoot Among Regular Gigs Story by Kris Ketonen, Photo by David Bastedo
T
hunder Bay-born musician Jeff Heisholt knows the value of community. Since leaving Thunder Bay in 1998 to pursue his career with the Burt Neilson Band, Heisholt has played keyboards for some Canadian music luminaries, including Peter Elkas, The Trews, and Terra Lightfoot. Being a good musician is a big part of it all, of course, but it’s not the entire picture: Heisholt says embracing local musical communities played a role, too. For example, take his early days in Thunder Bay. “It all kind of centered around Crocks N Rolls for me,” Heisholt says. “I started playing there as soon as I could, 14 or 15, and I’d meet other musicians there.” Crocks was where his high school band Julian would play, and was also where the members of the Burt Neilson Band initially came together. The Burt Neilson Band eventually led
Heisholt away from Thunder Bay; they decided they’d need to be somewhere bigger if they were really going to make a go of things. So, at the end of 1998, they headed to Montreal, continuing on for several more years. But after they split up, Heisholt found himself living a repeat of his early Thunder Bay days, albeit on a much larger scale.
huge part of it.”
“Being around Toronto, the same thing started happening,” Heisholt says. “I started falling into another musical community, meeting other musicians.” For example, one of those musicians was Elkas; Heisholt played with his band for a few years, appearing on two of his albums. Elkas and The Trews had the same management, so when The Trews needed a keyboardist, they came to Heisholt. “Going out and just knowing other players pops your name into someone’s head,” he said. “The social aspect really is a
The second half of October saw the band touring western Canada and Japan, and they began November in Australia. There are some further dates scheduled for Canada and the United Kingdom toward the end of the year. And while a Thunder Bay show isn’t official yet, Heisholt does hope to take to a local stage alongside Lightfoot next year.
Lately, much of Heisholt’s musical efforts are going toward his work with Lightfoot, who just released a new album, New Mistakes, in October. “We really had a really good experience making that record back in the spring,” he says. “She just knocked it out of the park on the songwriting.”
“We’ve got a bunch of stuff that will take us through Thunder Bay in the spring,” he says. “I’m hoping to add a date in there.” The Walleye
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Off theWall
REVIEWS
CDs
LPs
Videos
Games
Seven Fallen Feathers
Tanya Talaga
In Seven Fallen Feathers, Talaga investigates the seven deaths of Indigenous students attending Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School between 2000 and 2011. The journalist explores the students’ lives before leaving their remote communities for Northwestern Ontario’s largest city, the details known or speculated on regarding the events surrounding their deaths, and the eventual coroner’s inquest into the police investigations, including the perceived racism in the
Beautiful Unfolding
Reilly Scott
way the cases were handled. While Talaga delves into the historical context for the racial tension locally as well as nationally, she always returns her narrative to the seven, and she continually reminds us that they’re more than grim statistics: they’re people. Talaga makes the case that they and their families deserve to discover why this happened so that we can prevent it in the future and so that this tragedy doesn’t have to be a pointless one. Seven Fallen Feathers isn’t about
directing the blame at one group, but more about a collective failure of our society to protect and support these teens in order to give them a chance to live a normal and fulfilling life. Talaga argues that there must be a better way to offer Indigenous children a good education than forcing them to leave their families to live with strangers in a hostile city. - Alexander Kosoris
Victory Lap
Propagandhi
If I Had the Strength
Lemon Bucket Orkestra
Opening with lush, orchestral swells, Reilly Scott’s debut Beautiful Unfolding marks an auspicious addition to notable northern Ontario recordings. Hailing from Kenora, Scott’s collection embraces listeners with cozy, intimate folk that reads like a love song for the northern Ontario towns she’s called home: see “North Sky” and “The Sioux Lookout Song” for rootsy twinges of pride. Scott’s lyricism is plain but deeply felt and delicately crafted, always delivered with refreshing candour worthy of the album’s title. The songs on Beautiful Unfolding layer gritty truths over gentle melodies. Make no mistake—listeners can trust Scott’s storytelling because the lessons were hard-won. “One Step at a Time,” “No Home,” and “Guest House” will ring true for anyone who struggles with depression, vulnerability, or feeling lost in your world. Though Beautiful Unfolding doesn’t shy from darker subjects, the album’s story is ultimately uplifting—stirring closer “Follow the Road” insists you stay the course, even when times get tough. “Listen to me now,” Scott begs, because she’s as brave an artist as they come, and fought every inch to share her truth with you. You’re not going to want to miss it.
This album is the most compassionate and aggressive music you’ll hear all year. Victory Lap rips harder than it has any right to: lethal thrash backing up poppy vocal rhythms, grimy noise rock that loops you into fixation, eruptions of pop punk, and, fearlessly for the first time, massive 70s-style guitar riffs and solos. With satiric precision the lyrics point an oversized middle finger at our entrenched social and economic systems in all their cruel, hateful, hypocritical, oppressive glory. Propagandhi is a Winnipeg punk band best known for releasing a pretty great collection of hard-left sloganeering skate punk in 1993 that was absolutely enshrined with profanity. This album, their seventh, is some of those same people but they’ve grown old and masterful and learned. It sounds nothing like their juvenile past because now they’re seasoned veterans on top of being wonderfully talented, even as they’re still intelligent, frustrated, and angry. This album won’t kill fascists or even change your condescending racist aunt’s mind on anything, but it will let you know that if you’re standing up, you’re not alone, you’re never alone, especially when you have music this powerful.
Don’t be fooled by the creeping standup bass on the opening track of Lemon Bucket Orkestra’s new album. The Tom Waits-like interlude is abruptly cut off by the familiar jovial horns and yelps of the Toronto-based “Balkan-klezmer-gypsy-party-punk super band.” Based in the band members' own experiences with the Ukraine-Russia conflict, If I Had the Strength is a song cycle inspired by a century old Slavic prison ballad that tells the tale of a rebel returning home. Compared to their previous efforts, the album offers more variety in terms of tempos and melodies. The band also explores different styles and global sounds with tracks like “Heroes,” which features soprano Measha Brueggergosman, and “Palinka,” with Canadian-Mexican musician/ rapper Boogát. Although If I Had the Strength does contain the band’s party-punk roots, the sombre closing track “Peace” is a testament to how the band is continually evolving.
- Kirsti Salmi
- Justin Allec
- Adrian Lysenko
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New Mistakes
Terra Lightfoot
Terra Lightfoot delivers an action-packed album in New Mistakes. With her rich vocal tone, the singersongwriter brings power and character to her work. Throughout the album, her creative lyrics and fearlessness in introducing genrecrossing elements to her tracks (electronica in “Paradise,” saxophone in “Hold You,” and choral back-up peppered throughout) mark her as a well-suited partner for country-folk duo Whitehorse, with whom she is currently touring. With both substantive anthemic folk-rock and melodic serenades, Lightfoot shows that she’s not tied down to a singular formula. She even gives us a 1950s doo-wop style tune in “Two Hearts,” which features conventional chord progressions that she makes her own. My favourite track, because it tells a true story, is “Norma Gale”; the first down-tempo song on the album, it’s a moving ballad evoking images of hope in hard times. - Steph Skavinski
Strange Peace
Metz
If Metz II sounded a little like B-sides left over from Metz’s debut album, fans will be very pleased with the change and growth found on the band’s third album Strange Peace. While Strange Peace is not exactly full of radio-friendly unit shifters, the songwriting shows a big step forward, giving more structure and even some more accessible sounds to the songs. More focus on melody, harmony, and some cleaner lines shine through the fuzz, distortion, and wobbly vocals. Recorded live to tape with Steve Albini in the producer’s chair, the sound on this new album recalls some of the finest moments in Sub Pop history. Fans of the noisier side of 90s alternative and punk should definitely check this out. Fans of cool art and animation should also check out the videos created for the songs “Cellophane” and “Drained Lake” by Thunder Bay resident Shayne Ehman. - Jason Wellwood
Colors Beck
The Long and Faraway Gone
Lou Berney
Beck’s 13th studio album comes on the heels of his masterpiece, Morning Phase, which earned three Grammys in 2015. Back in June of that year, he released “Dreams” as a teaser for his next album, which was finally released last month. Colors is the antithesis to Morning Phase—say bye to melancholy and hello to funk and fun. Beck stops short of creating bubblegum pop—his songs are carefully layered with bustling beats, groovy hooks, and cool tones. But it’s a definite change in direction for a guy who carved out his niche with alternative, oddball singles like “Loser” and “MTV Makes Me Want to Smoke Crack.” Fans who’ve enjoyed his lighter fare over the years will appreciate all 11 tracks on Colors, but fans who haven’t might want to let this one pass. Then again, there’s a lot of heavy shit going on in the world these days, so maybe you should grab a fruity vodka cooler, give this album a spin, and forget about it. - Michelle McChristie
“The Land Run? That was the place Candace Kilkenny had inherited?” With these questions, the live music club that brings Wyatt Rivers back to Oklahoma City is introduced. It is part of a past he would prefer to leave behind, but the time has come to face the bad and good. In counterpoint is Julianna, who is losing the her connection to the present in her quest to find answers about the disappearance of her sister. The transitions between these viewpoints provide space between some uncomfortable situations, giving the reader some breathing room before the next revelation. For all their flaws the characters are worth rooting for, even when you just want to shake them for some of their decisions. A satisfying and compelling read. - Ruth Hamlin-Douglas
Career & Job Fair
l l a g Callinoyers Empl
Wednesday, January 31st, 2018 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Are you hiring? Meet your future employees! The Career & Job Fair is a great opportunity for all varieties of organizations to connect with interested and talented students, alumni and job seekers looking for job opportunities to launch their careers or gain employment.
Register today! www.confederationcollege.ca/career-job-fair
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Architecture
A Legacy to its Citizens The Centennial Conservatory By Laurie Abthorpe
“A
thing of beauty is a joy forever”—these sentiments were shared 50 years ago during the opening ceremonies for the Fort William Centennial Conservatory. According to the Fort William Parks Board, the magnificent conservatory and its diverse plantings originating from around the world were intended to offer “perpetual joy to all who have the pleasure of beholding it.”
$162,000 project got underway, with costs being split three ways between the federal, provincial, and municipal governments. The structure was made with 18 tonnes of glass and steel, the structure, including a 59’ x 132’ main centre house, two wing houses at 35’ x 41’ each, and a 32’ x 78’ growing house. A 30’ x 60’ service building was also built to house the boiler and heating system controls.
As early as 1960, the Fort William Parks Board began brainstorming project ideas to mark Canada’s upcoming centennial. The board was looking to invest in a project at the Chapples Memorial Recreation Centre (Chapples Park) that would ensure long term enjoyment for the community. A large conservatory and growing house was an ideal suggestion. By May of 1964, city council adopted and passed the conservatory as the Fort William Centennial Project. Lord & Burnham Company, an esteemed greenhouse and design firm, provided the project quote and design sketches that were submitted to the Centennial Planning Branch of Toronto for their approval and funding. Considered “one of the better Centennial projects submitted for the whole of Canada” by the secretary of the Centennial Advisory Council, the project was approved.
By fall 1966, the structure was complete. Local masonry contractors Gasparotto and Boz Ltd. were just one of many local trades companies hired to work on the conservatory. They built the 9’ tall rock garden, including the cascading waterfalls and pools along with the edging of the beds, which incorporated over three toness of amethyst, split granite, and other field stone from the Lakehead region. Over the next year, seeding and growing began, supported with donations from local community groups.
On November 1, 1965, the
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The Fort William Centennial Conservatory, with its 11,800 square feet of viewing space, was opened to the public in November 1967. Considered a tremendous boon and asset to the community, this wonderful oasis was one of only ten conservatories across Canada. Today, our conservatory retains many plants derived from the original plantings. The
Architecture main central house, a year-round tropical paradise, features many exotic flowers, shrubs, and fruit-bearing trees. The west wing, the simulated desert room, is home to a variety of cacti species, including an agave americana Marginata from Mexico planted in 1967. The heart of the conservatory is its greenhouses. Without greenhouses to nurture and support new growth, the conservatory could not exist. One growing house was part of the original project; however, two more have since been added for a total growing space of 8,334 square feet. These greenhouses, and the team led by Karen Nadeau, lead hand and curator of the conservatory, not only support the conservatory, they also provide and maintain all of
the bedding plants and hanging floral displays for every park in the City of Thunder Bay. A visit to our botanical conservatory is great way to unwind and enjoy a beautiful tropical paradise all year round. The Centennial Conservatory, located at 1601 West Dease Street, is open seven days a week between the hours of 10 am-4 pm. 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 city’s heritage resources, visit thunderbay.ca/living/culture_and_heritage.
The
Framing Post & Gallery Download our mobile app for your IOS and Android device Use the promo code WALLEYE15 to get 15% off your first ride! November 1st - November 30th 2017
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Green a very useful material when gardening and growing our own food. Compost is easy to make, and it adds additional nutrients to the soil, helps retain moisture, and creates a closed loop recycling system for organic waste. At a minimum, consider utilizing a few of the municipal waste diversion events held annually, including pumpkin composting, Christmas tree chipping, and annual leaf and yard waste pick up. Each of these programs helps divert organic waste, and the collected materials are turned into compost, which is then free come spring time for residents to pick up at the landfill. It’s a win-win!
Wasted?
By Erin Moir, Program Coordinator, EcoSuperior
T
he province of Ontario is warning residents that our landfills may be at capacity within 20 years. Each year Ontarians dispose of approximately 850 kg of waste per person, with only a quarter of that amount being diverted from landfill sites.
and vegetable waste, and just dump your food scraps into the composter every day or so. Covering your food scraps with a thin layer of dry leaves helps absorbs moisture and minimizes odours. Composters are available at EcoSuperior for just $25.
The Government of Ontario is currently considering a ban on throwing organic waste into the trash. While decomposing in a landfill, organic waste produces greenhouse gases such as methane that contribute to climate change and account for 6% of Ontario’s total emissions. But how do we divert organic wastes from entering the landfill when we don’t have a curbside green bin program? It’s simple: we compost, and we don’t need to wait for new legislation to get started.
No backyard? No worries! Vermicomposting is a method of composting using red wiggler worms in a bin that is kept indoors. Drill air holes in a medium size Rubbermaid bin, and add a layer of dry leaves or shredded newspaper. Add your worms and watch them go to work on your organic waste. There are few specific things that the worms won’t eat: citrus fruits, fruit pits, and tough fruit rinds (but they like banana peels). Over time as your worm squirm grows, you can move it to a larger bin and feed them even more. Vermicomposting is a great way to divert organic waste even if you don’t have an outdoor space. Contact us at EcoSuperior for more information and to inquire about adopting worms (based on availability).
Setting up a backyard composter is easy, efficient, and inexpensive. Purchase a composter, and set it up in your backyard; we suggest close to a garden area so you don’t have to move finished compost too far. Place dry leaves, grass clippings, and twigs on the bottom. Keep a lidded container in your kitchen to collect fruit
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Composting not only diverts waste from our local landfill, but also provides
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Health
presents
Featuring Colin Stewart Directed by Marcia Arpin
December 1st & 2nd 7:00pm
Stop the Sniffles by Improving Your Immunity
Confederation College Shuniah Building Lecture Theatre Tickets $10 per person Available prior to the show or at the Baggage Building Arts Centre
By Sara Chow, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
C
old and flu season is here. Our pockets and purses are now being filled with face tissues, hand sanitizers, as well as cold and flu medications. However, you can boost your immune system to prevent and/ or mitigate the effects of common illnesses. Here are a few tips from local health experts:
flow. This allows for infection-fighting cells to move through the body freely to do their job efficiently. Finally, when it comes to prevention of illnesses, exercise is great for controlling stress and helping you to get a good night’s sleep. Adults should incorporate 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise into their routine every week.
Exercise regularly –
Get enough sleep –
(Registered Kinesiologist and Supervisor, Healthy Lifestyles Program at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre)
(Family Physician, Regional Primary Care Lead with Cancer Care Ontario)
Kyle Baysarowich
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to boost your immune system. Regular, moderate levels of exercise help prevent catching a cold or flu in comparison with sedentary behaviour. There are a few theories about how exercise can benefit the immune system. One theory is that it can provide a boost to the cells in your body that are assigned to attack infections. By speeding up these cells, you can get healthier quicker. Another theory is that exercise promotes good circulation and blood
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Dr. Nicole Zavagnin
Most of us are familiar with the effects of a poor night’s sleep: low energy, mood changes, and impaired concentration, to name a few. Your mother may have also told you “if you don’t get enough sleep, you’ll get sick.” Turns out mom was right. A lack of sleep can make you more prone to infection and lower your ability to fight off a cold or flu. While you sleep your body releases proteins, hormones, and other chemicals that help strengthen the immune system and fight off infection. The body’s systems, including the immune
system, function best when adults get between 7-8 hours sleep a night. Children need slightly more sleep averaging 9-11 hours per night.
Drink plenty of hot fluids – Sheri Maltais
(Registered Dietitian, Regional Stroke Network, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre) Drinking plenty of hot fluids is especially important when you have a cold or flu. Fluids, such as hot water, tea, soup, and broth, can help to relieve nasal congestion, prevent dehydration, and keep the lining of the upper respiratory tract moist. This can help to ease sore throat symptoms, according to experts. Additionally, chicken soup is not only good for your soul but it can help treat your cold. According to research, a homemade chicken soup containing chicken, onions, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, carrots, celery, parsley, salt, and pepper was shown to dampen the activity of white blood cells that trigger inflammation and may reduce mucus flow in the lungs and nasal passages.
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NovemberEventsGuide November 1, 8–9:30 pm Rock, Paper, Scissors Red Lion Smokehouse
Are you a Rock, Paper, Scissors champion? Pit your skills against the masses to find out. Entry is $5 per person. Winner receives $50 cash. Secure your spot by emailing your name and phone number, or just show-up on the night. * alex@redlionsmokehouse.ca
November 2, 6:30–8:30 pm Thunder Bay Transit Public Open House Victoria Inn
Thunder Bay Transit is conducting a comprehensive review of its current routing structure and will be assembling recommendations on how it can be improved to make the system more effective and efficient. * transit@thunderbay.ca
November 3, 10, 17, 24, 10:30–11:30 am Mindful Movement NorWest Clinic
A wellness practice focused on the mind-body connection: a way to calm our mind by moving our body. You will be invited to practice mindfulness, body awareness, free movement, and breathing exercises. Everyone welcome—come as you are, no experience needed. ) 346-3321
November 3, 10, 17, 24, 4:30–6 pm NeuRIG Lecture Series Lakehead University
NeuRIG (Neuroscience Research Interest Group) at Lakehead University holds a weekly lecture series that is open to everyone, including high school students, with the goal of making neuroscience widely accessible to all. facebook.com/neurig
November 3, 6 pm Thai Night Oliver Road Community Centre
Come out for an evening of Thai food, music, and a show. There will be many local performers including the Thai Dance Group who have been practicing for the last few months to bring you a great evening! Tickets only $40. facebook.com/ ThaiHealingCenter
November 4, 10 am–3 pm Memoir Writing Workshop Mary J.L. Black Library
The Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop (NOWW) is offering a workshop on memoir writing facilitated by award-winning author and newspaper columnist Joe Fiorito. Registration is $10 for NOWW members and $40 for nonmembers (which includes a one-year membership to NOWW.) Register and pay on the NOWW website. Space is limited and registration is required. nowwwriters.ca
November 4, 10 am–3 pm Frosty the Snowman Visit Toy Sense
Frosty the Snowman will be at Toy Sense. Stop by and have some fun! toysense.ca
November 4, 10am–5 pm Sixth Biannual Waterfront Art Sale Baggage Building Arts Centre
A beautiful selection of various works by local artists and artisans. Glasswork, ceramic sculpture, photography, oil, watercolour, acrylic paintings, pottery, jewelry, clothing, and much more. Door prizes, free parking, refreshments. * bbac.pottery@gmail.com
FOOD
International Uilleann Pipe Day is a worldwide celebration of the Irish Pipes. There will be a short history of the pipes as well as a few tunes demonstrating the unique qualities of the Uilleann Pipes. That will be followed by a traditional Irish music session featuring the pipes. * dacey@tbaytel.net
November 4 How We Did It Book Launch Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel and Suites
Karl Subban and Scott Colby launch their book. See this month’s City Scene section for more info. facebook.com/ howwediditbook
November 4 Top Chef Thunder Bay Victoria Inn
The culinary extravaganza is back for its 6th year, this time hosted by Food Network celebrity Kevin Brauch. See this month’s Food section for more info. keynoteevents.ca
November 4–5, 11–12, 18–19 23rd Annual Pumpkinfest Gammondale Farm
Tonnes of pumpkins! Tonnes of great food! Canada’s largest pumpkin catapult, pumpkin train, pumpkin slingshot, BOO barn, farm animals, new daytime monster corn maze for kids, wagon rides, draft horse rides, corn cannon, duck races, kids’ corral, bronco train, forest maze, trike trails, Needle in a Haystack photo contest, and much more. ) 475-5615
November 5, 11 am–4 pm ‘Tis the Season Show and Shop Valhalla Inn
Come out for a magical afternoon just as the holiday entertaining season begins. Thunder Bay’s leading experts in fine foods, cocktails, fashion, home décor, and guesting gifts will delight and inspire thousands of visitors with fashion shows, demonstrations, samples, and goods available for purchase. tbchamber.ca/tistheseason
EVENTS GUIDE KEY GENERAL
November 4, 2–4 pm International Uilleann Pipe Day Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.
ART
SPORTS
MUSIC
Perfect mobility solutions with next level customer care “Outstanding” ™Rogers and the Mobius Design are trademarks of or used under license from Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate.
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November 7, 6:30 pm Fresh Air Trail Run Kamview Nordic Centre
Register at Kamview from 5 pm to 6 pm. Short course or long course. Cost is $5. Free kid’s mini-race! tbnordictrails.com
November 7, 7 pm Leonard Cohen: In His Own Words Trinity Hall
A screening of the video project by Dalibor Mišina. See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info. ) 345-5621
November 8, 2 pm Creative Engaging Arts Fair CLE
Are you 55 plus? Retired or thinking of retiring? Come explore the creative side of life at this arts fair, featuring music, drama, dance, visual arts and crafts, and writing, all under one roof. Admission is pay what you can. Try something new! theag.ca
November 8, 7:15–9 pm Lakehead Stamp Club Meeting Hammarskjöld High School Library
Program is a one-page exhibit, with a table auction. Entry is free. Visitors are welcome. lakeheadstampclub.ca
November 10, 5:30–8:30 pm Neechee Studio: Free Art Workshops for Indigenous Youth Definitely Superior Art Gallery
Season 5 begins! Thanks to the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, we are bringing youth a dozen free art workshops, Friday nights at the gallery—just drop-in! For updates on dates and topics, check out Neechee Studio’s Facebook group page. neecheestudio.webbly.com
November 10–12 Fifth Annual Lake Superior Storm Festival Lutsen and Grand Marais
There’s nothing quite like a November gale—wind howling, icy waves lashing the rocks, a shiver of awe running down your spine. Treat yourself to a storm-season retreat before the bedlam of the holidays begins. This event honors the power and wild beauty of the Big Lake. * katie@visitcookcounty.com
Until November 11 New Paintings: Christian Chapman & Sam Shahsahabi Definitely Superior Art Gallery
Check out inspiring new paintings by two accomplished regional artists who have shown nationally and internationally. Christian Chapman - Fight for your Life: Chapman uses storytelling as a main theme in his practice to compose his art images. His original painting style draws upon Woodlands art as well as contemporary art and culture. He is of Anishinaabe heritage, from Fort William First Nation. Sam Shahsahabi - Beneath the Reflection: Shahsahabi’s new paintings draw upon contemporary art elements and the repeating geometric designs of Islamic art. He is of Iranian heritage and an assistant professor at Lakehead University. Gallery hours: Tuesday to Saturday, noon–6 pm. All ages welcome/ admission by donation. definitelysuperior.com/ Facebook
Until November 11 Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth Magnus Theatre
In this play by Drew Hayden Taylor, an Indigenous woman adopted by a white family struggles to connect her two lives in this heartwarming and hilarious story about coming home. magnustheatre.com
November 11, 10 am–2 pm Neighbourhood Toy Store Day Toy Sense
For Neighbourhood Toy Store Day, Toy Sense is hosting a craft event! Choose from the Orb PlushCraft Schnauzer or Heart Purse. For ages 5+. One per child. Quantities are limited. toysense.ca
November 11–12 Artisans Northwest Art and Fine Craft Show Valhalla Inn
Now in its 42nd year, this annual show and sale, featuring over 60 different booths in four rooms at the Valhalla Inn. See this month’s Top Five for more info. artisansnorthwest.ca
November 14, 7–9 pm Photography Club Meeting Lakehead University
Imagetrekkers Photography Club membership is open to all ages and skill levels, whether you are an 18-year-old aspiring pro or a 75-yearold enthusiast just learning about your new camera. New members are always welcome. imagetrekkers.club
November 14–15 ELF: The Broadway Musical Thunder Bay Community Auditorium
Based on the beloved 2003 film, ELF features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin. tbca.com
November 14–16 Indigenous Knowledge Conference Airlane Hotel
An event providing a platform for Indigenous people to pass on their history, knowledge, and experiences. See this month’s City Scene section for more info. besuperiorevents.com
November 15–18 & 22–25 Mom’s Gift Finlandia Hall
Cambrian Players presents this family comedy. See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info. cambrianplayers.ca
November 16, 7–10 pm Ale Yeah! Not Your Average Wine Tasting The Chanterelle
Join SHIFT for a wine sippin’, beer tastin’ (yes, we said beer), awesome time at The Chanterelle on Park. In addition to the wine, generously sponsored by Sun Life Financial, Sleeping Giant Brewing Company and Dawson Trail Brewery will be handing out some tasty beer samples. With City Wide Sound playing your favourites, this wine tasting will be anything but average. shiftnetwork.ca
November 17, 5:30–8:30 pm Neechee Studio: Free Art Workshops for Indigenous Youth Definitely Superior Art Gallery
Season 5 begins! Thanks to the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, we are bringing youth a dozen free art workshops, Friday nights at the gallery—just drop-in! For updates on dates and topics, check out Neechee Studio’s Facebook group page. neecheestudio.webbly.com
November 17–19 Winterer’s Gathering North House Folk School
North House Folk School’s Winterer’s Gathering celebrates all that our northern culture and traditions have to offer. See this month’s Top Five for more info. northhouse.org
November 18, noon–4 pm Rossport Artisans’ Fair Rossport Community Hall
A fair showcasing local artisans as well as raising funds for the community hall. See this month’s Art section for more info. * painterbythelake@yahoo.com
November 18, 1–8 pm Boreal Path Autumn Yoga Retreat Trinity Hall
Yoga, meditation, Pranayama, plus yoga dance, and amazing food. Guest presenters include Kate Rapley and Angela Slomke. It’s a full of day of joy, sacred movement, music and delicious food. Cost is $105, with an early-bird registration of $95 if registered by October 30. No yoga experience is necessary. To register, message Boreal Path Yoga on Facebook, or email. * gary.bellinger62@gmail.com
Until November 19 Kohesion Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Inspired by the rural backdrop of his home in Kaministiquia and childhood, local artist Quentin Maki’s most recent work in the exhibition Kohesion explores composition, colour and texture. theag.ca
November 23, 7:30 pm Cirque Musica Holiday Presents: Believe Thunder Bay Community Auditorium
A show that blends the spell-binding grace and dare-devil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of the greatest holiday music of all time, performed by the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. tbca.com
November 24 Ignite the Fort Fort William Historical Park
A laser show extravaganza: Nightly laser show with holiday-themed activities. fwhp.ca
November 24, 5:30–8:30 pm Neechee Studio: Free Art Workshops for Indigenous Youth Definitely Superior Art Gallery
Season 5 begins! Thanks to the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, we are bringing youth a dozen free art workshops, Friday nights at the gallery—just drop-in! For updates on dates and topics, check out Neechee Studio’s Facebook group page. neecheestudio.webbly.com
November 24, 7 pm Gala Art Opening - Regional Juried Show and Film Premiere Definitely Superior Art Gallery
Manifestation – 29th Annual Regional Juried Exhibition (open regional call for entry format), featuring art by 30+ individual, eclectic, and diverse contemporary artists selected from the region, in the only annual professional/paid, juried format exhibition in Northwestern ON. Façade – A film by Piotr Skowronski, capturing an unobtrusive and intimate glimpse of emotions. This short film is an opportunity to witness pure reaction and connect entirely by our evolutionary ability to recognize, relate, and interpret expressions on a human face. This form of nonverbal communication, with its dynamic range, is both universal and deeply individual and is at the core of this project. Enjoy art, artist talks, music, and catered refreshments. Exhibition runs until January 13. All ages/by donation. definitelysuperior.com/ Facebook
November 24, 7:15–9 pm Lakehead Stamp Club Meeting Hammarskjöld High School Library
Program is the first Christmas stamps, with a table auction. Entry is free. Visitors are welcome. lakeheadstampclub.ca
November 24–25 We Are Monsters Confederation College Lecture Theatre
A production of the full-length musical, performed by the All the Daze Productions junior troupe. See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info. allthedaze.ca
November 25, 11 am–3 pm Experience the Arts Day Gallery 33
Children are invited to come to participate in a variety of arts activities. There will be performance art, visual art, and crafts. Featured guests are “Magic Backpack” authors Abby and Tim, The Grumpy Grandpas, and Dottie the Clown. Admission is a non-perishable food item or small donation. ) 286-4233
November 26 Craft Revival 7 Downtown Takeover Various Locations
November 26, 1–4 pm Victorian Tea Thunder Bay Museum
This widely attended event is complete with tea, dainties, scones with Devonshire cream, and an audience with Her Majesty Queen Victoria herself. The event also provides an opportunity to meet celebrity pourers, dress and act like those in Victorian society (optional), with all proceeds going directly to help preserve our local heritage. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children. thunderbaymuseum.com.
Until November 26 The Path of the Paddle Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Explore maps and views of the Great Trail – 1200 km of water from Thunder Bay to the Manitoba border. This exhibition features original artwork by Rejean Roy and David Lightwood as well as hand painted maps by Hap Wilson. theag.ca
Until November 26 On the Trail Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Exhibition featuring work from artist Denise Smith. theag.ca
November 28, 7 pm Mozart and Martinis Bight Restaurant + Bar
The TBSO chamber players add energy and ambiance to a room full of symphony supporters sampling wonderful food and wine pairings at Bight Restaurant + Bar on the water. tbso.ca
Until December 3 Permanent Collection Spotlight: Angus Trudeau Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Featuring the work of Ojibway artist Angus Trudeau. theag.ca
Until December 16 Spread the Warmth Winter Coat Drive Gear Up for Outdoors
Help keep our community warm by donating an old winter coat, and get 15% off a new winter coat. See this month’s City Scene section for more info. gear-up.com
The Craft Revival is Thunder Bay’s most eclectic holiday market, featuring local artists and craftspeople, and live performances. See this month’s Top Five for more info. thecraftrevivaltbay.com
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Music November 1 Let It Be: A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $60 • AA November 2 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Celtic Thursdays Red Lion Smokehouse 7:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Prime Time Karaoke Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Open Stage Thursdays The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+ Bevz Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 3 Five Man Acoustical Band Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 5:30 pm • No Cover • AA TBSO Northern Lights: Stray Cats and Mad Dogs Night 1 Italian Cultural Centre 7:30 pm • $5-$33 • AA Ukkonen / Starless / Soapboxer Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $5 • 19+ DJ Big D + DJ Rudone The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+
November 4 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 6 Every Folk’n Monday Night The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Merle Haggard’s Strangers Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 8 pm • $35 • AA
TBSO Pops: Canada Remembers Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $12-$43 • AA
Thunder Bay Community Band Open Jam Night 250 Park Ave 7:30 pm • No Cover • AA
Open Jam Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA
Drincubus as Incubus w/ Selfies as Big Shiny 90s The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+
The Best Karaoke In Thunder Bay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 8 Rory Taillon The Foundry 8 pm • No Cover • 19+ November 9 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Celtic Thursdays Red Lion Smokehouse 7:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Prime Time Karaoke Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Open Stage Thursdays The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
Thirsty Monks w/ DJ Big D The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 10+
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Consortium Aurora Borealis presents Baroque Brilliance: Jeremy Bell, Violin St. Paul’s United Church 8 pm • $10-$15 • AA
The Simon & Garfunkel Story Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $40-$60 • AA
Gordon Lightfoot Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 8 pm • $79-$109 • AA
Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
Brother John Beaux Daddy’s Grillhouse 6:30 pm • No Cover • AA
November 7 The Heather Dale Band Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church 7:30 pm • $10-$20 • AA
November 10 Shawn Holt and The Teardrops Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8 pm • $TBA • 19+
Open Jam Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA
Greenbank The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+
November 18 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+
TBSO Northern Lights: Stray Cats and Mad Dogs Night 2 Italian Cultural Centre 7:30 pm • $5-$33 • AA
November 5 Jesse Cook Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $49 • AA
November 25 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1pm • No Cover • 19+
November 12 Harmony in Style Superior CVI High School 2 pm • $10-$20 • AA
Bevz Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
Tin Pan Alley w/ Yes We Mystic + DJ Big D The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+
WERQ presents The Underground Drag & DJ Party Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $5 • 19+
James Yeldon Band CD Fundraiser Crocks 9:30 pm • $8 • 19+
Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
Sounds of Ireland Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 7 pm • No Cover • AA
Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar Polish Hall 8 pm • $25-$30 • AA
The Bay Street Bastards The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+
Metal Night ft. Satan’s Chauffeur as DevilDriver Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $5 • 19+
November 11 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+
Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 13 Every Folk’n Monday Night The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 14 Thunder Bay Community Band Open Jam Night 250 Park Ave 7:30 pm • No Cover • AA The Best Karaoke In Thunder Bay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 15 TBSO Classical +: Kaleidoscope Hilldale Lutheran Church 7:30 pm • $12-$32 • AA PIGS: Canada’s Pink Floyd Tribute Crocks 7:30 pm • $25-$30 • 19+
November 16 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Celtic Thursdays Red Lion Smokehouse 7:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ All Ages Rock Showcase Black Pirates Pub 8 pm • $6 • AA
November 19 Open Jam Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 20 Every Folk’n Monday Night The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 21 Thunder Bay Community Band Open Jam Night 250 Park Ave 7:30 pm • No Cover • AA The Best Karaoke In Thunder Bay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 23 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Celtic Thursdays Red Lion Smokehouse 7:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Prime Time Karaoke Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Open Stage Thursdays The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
Prime Time Karaoke Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+
Bevz Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
John Booth Beaux Daddy’s Grillhouse 6:30 pm • No Cover • AA
Open Stage Thursdays The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
Consortium Aurora Borealis presents Oboe Virtuosi at the German Courts St. Paul’s United Church 8 pm • $10-$15 • AA
Bevz Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 24 The Gin Tonics Cheer’s The Village Pub 9 pm • No Cover • 19+
The Gin Tonics Red Lion Smokehouse 9:30 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 17 The Angies Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8 pm • $4-$5 • 19+
Altamadum Album Release Party Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $5 • 19+ Swift & the Broken Hearts as John Mayer w/ John Album The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+
Nursing Fundraiser NV Nightclub 10 pm • $5 • 19+ Undercover The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+ Dichotomy X ft Jean-Paul De Roover Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $5 • 19+
November 26 Open Jam Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA Bevs Dragons Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 27 Every Folk’n Monday Night The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Bevs Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 28 Thunder Bay Community Band Open Jam Night 250 Park Ave 7:30 pm • No Cover • AA Cosbey Piano Quintet presents The Roaring 20s Trinity United Church 7:30 pm • $10-$20 • AA The Best Karaoke In Thunder Bay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+
November 30 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+ Celtic Thursdays Red Lion Smokehouse 7:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Prime Time Karaoke Port Arthur Legion Br. 5 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+ Open Stage Thursdays The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+ Bevz Dragon’s Den 10 pm • No Cover • 19+ Brought to you by:
For more info visit tbshows.com
Music
LU Radio’s Monthly Top 20 CILU 102.7fm’s Monthly Charts for this issue reflect airplay for the month ending October 18, 2017. Check out our weekly charts online at luradio.ca or tune in to the weekly Top 20 Countdown Saturday from 5-7pm (or the rebroadcast Monday 4-6pm) on 102.7fm in Thunder Bay or stream us live world-wide at luradio.ca.
3 New Track City
International
Loud
1 Antibalas
1 The Creepshow*
Lose Sight of the Shore
Self-Released
4 Boosh & The Dip*
River City Riot, Pt. 2
Self-Released
Manna
Mass Appeal
1 La+ch*
1 Chad VanGaalen*
Bomb - Single
sideways
Light Information
Flemish Eye
Cry Cry Cry
Canvasback
Blue Youth EP
Grind Central
15 Friendly Rich*
The Great Blue Heron
Pumpkin Pie Corp.
16 Tom Savage*
Everything Intertwined
Self-Released
17 Terra Lightfoot* 2 Engine House*
EH
Self-Released
3 The Elwins
Beauty Community
Hidden Pony Records
4 Alvvays*
Antisocialites
Polyvinyl
5 Whitehorse*
Panther In The Dollhouse
New Mistakes
Sonic Unyon
Lush
Self-Released
Nevado
4 Blue Hawaii*
Tenderness
Arbutus
3 Hilario Durán
Contumbao
Alma
4 Dave Stryker
Strykin' Ahead
Self-Released
19 The Commotions*
Always
Self-Released
Death at My Door
Self-Released
2 On Top
Top Dollar
Horror Pain Gore Death
3 Leaving Eden
Out Of The Ashes
BMI
4 Akercocke
Renaissance In Extremis
Snapper
5 WarCall*
Invaders
Plan B
Folk•Roots•Blues 1 Sunday Wilde & Reno Jack*
Two
HWY 11
2 Sarah Jane Scouten*
When the Bloom Falls from the Rose
Light Organ
3 Farmer The Band*
Where the Rails Bend
Self-Released
4 Isabel Leonard & Sharon Isbin
Alma Española
Self-Released
5 The Barr Brothers*
Queens of the Breakers
Secret City
The Tide Turns
Self-Released
* Indicates Canadian Content
Volume II
Self-Released
20 Nadjiwan*
Superposition
Heading North
Running Wild
Rhymesayers
8 Woolworm*
Fussin' feat Begonia (single)
Alma
Murmuration Nation
MRI
1 Grieves
Golpes y Flores
7 Soapboxer*
I'm Poppy
Mad Decent
3 Royal Canoe*
5 Brad Cheeseman*
Hip Hop
Mint
Cellar Live
2 Eliana Cuevas*
2 Poppy
Let's Groove: The Music Of Earth Wind & Fire
5 Raveen*
Six Shooter
Try ;-)
Shelter As We Go...
Coax
18 Emily Saliers
6 Faith Healer*
Masaryk
ARC Music
1 Cory Weeds
Bandwagonesque
14 Blue Youth*
Colours Of Raga
ARC
Jazz
Sub Pop
13 Benjamin Gibbard
Under Burning Skies
Do Right! Music
5 Quantum Tangle*
12 Wolf Parade*
4 Lenka Lichtenberg*
Top 20
3 Deben Bhattacharya
Electronic
Daptone
2 The Souljazz Orchestra
5 Fashawn
Where the Gods Are in Peace
This Month's Show Spotlight: The Patch
Hosted by Connor Graham Mondays 9 - 10 pm
Deserve To Die
Mint
9 Queens Of The Stone Age
Villains
Slanging tunes in hopes of creating a patchwork of sound bound by influence and innovation. Following these threads through some new and favourite post-punk, indie, and alternative bands.
Matador
10 Billy Moon*
I'll Push the Pedals and You Steer - EP
Self-Released
11 Vince Mira
2 Gisto & Emotionz*
El Radio
Fred Entertainment
Orbits
Historical
Connor’s Song of the Moment: King Krule - "Half Man Half Shark" The Walleye
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WeatherEye precipitation predictions for a few more weeks.
National Weather Service (U.S.) This agency does not officially predict for Canada, but is included because Minnesota and Wisconsin are immediately to the south of our area of concern. The agency includes considerable discussion as to what is considered, and their prediction is for normal temperature and precipitation this winter.
Darren McChristie
Old Farmer’s Almanac
Sea Lion, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
The Complexities of Predicting the Coming Winter By Graham Saunders
L
et’s start with the certainties for Thunder Bay: winter is coming, and it will feature relative cold temperatures and snow. And there are a multitude of agencies and sources providing predictions for this approaching winter—another certainty. When it comes to weather predictions, it is not so simple as deciding whether it will be a “good” or “bad” winter. Perhaps a very cold early winter that kills ticks and other insects would be considered a good winter by some. Maybe winter with snow at opportune times would be ideal for others; most winter recreation requires it, and water lines in both rural and urban areas benefit from
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the free insulation that snow provides. It is common to hear that predicting the weather (especially months into the future) is like flipping a coin. But a realistic seasonal forecast should have estimates of both higher, lower, and average number for both temperature and precipitation—such an array of choices would baffle any coin I know of. Weather lore details causeand-effect relationships between nature and the weather. For instance, can days with fog in August and September be used to predict snowfall in the winter? But it is not easy to apply cause and effect to this connection or other “natural” ways to make long-range predictions beyond one or two days. For instance,
the geese a few weeks ago gave mixed messages—most were flying south but some flocks changed their mind and started flying north. There is no cute rodent weather forecaster that predicts the coming season at this time of year. But there are other sources of information. We will consider four but an internet search can reveal almost endless options. Here is what some different sources are saying about this coming winter.
The Weather Network Their prediction is for colder than normal temperatures, but they promise a revised winter prediction at the end of November.
Environment Canada Their projections suggest the early winter will be warmer and wetter than normal. The entire winter is predicted to have normal temperatures when the numbers are totalled and averaged at the end of February 2018. They also include a map on their track record so we can see how accurate they have been in the past. For Thunder Bay and region the score is 40%50%, which seems like a failing grade. However, with three possibilities (higher, lower, and average), simply guessing would result in 33%. This demonstrates “skill”— although perhaps you should not bet your house or winter firewood on this past performance. They are also holding off on winter
“Most of Canada will see [mild temperatures] and belownormal levels of rain and snow this winter,” according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. Thunder Bay is in the middle of a huge area with this prediction. Again, caution is advised on decisions about houses and firewood because the Almanac has performed poorly in recent times. Last winter, for example, was predicted to be “cold and snowy” and to start early and persist into March. November last year has fame for its remarkable warmth and rainfall events—the warmest and wettest in records dating back to 1877. A mix of snow and rain occurred through the winter and snow on the ground was gone by late February.
A Hesitant Prediction The present and recent water temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean often provide guidance to coming winter conditions in central North America. Warmer than average El Niño conditions often translate into conditions like last winter, whereas cooler La Niña can mean colder with more snow. Tropical waters continue to be normal and have reduced influence in our area. I am suggesting a “normal” winter for temperature—within 1.5° C of average but on the plus side. Snow prediction is more iffy, in part because Lake Superior continues to be much warmer than average. Give this a few more weeks.
Teaching English as a Second Language TESL Certificate - Online Program Travel the world teaching English as a Second Language. Interested? Learn the principles and methods of instruction applied to teaching English as both a second or as an additional language. In addition, the program is intended to help develop an understanding of basic linguistics and its application in the fields of addtional language and English language development in second language learners. The TESL Program offered through Lakehead University is now completely online, starting January 8, 2018. For more information, please contact us by calling 346-7915 or email tesl@lakeheadu.ca This online certificate program is recognized by TESL Canada.
VISIT LakeheadU.ca/pde
FOLLOW
@LakeheadPDE
Conserve natural resources. Recycling E-Waste recovers valuable materials that can be used to make new products.
Drop off unwanted E-Waste at the depot located at the Solid Waste & Recycling Facility on Mapleward Road. It’s free!
www.thunderbay.ca/recycle or 625-2195 for more info. The Walleye
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theWall it really boils down to the following statement by musician/actor Peter Gallagher: “To stay on the map you've got to keep showing up.” Five Alarm Funk and The Pack A.D. are two current touring acts that come to mind in this regard. Five Alarm Funk stopped here twice on each of their last tours but are not coming at all on their most recent. And The Pack A.D. have also opted to bypass us this time despite playing to a packed house on a Tuesday night when they were here last year. So, what is the answer?
Chad Kirvan
Staying on the Map By Jamie Varga
M
usic fans in Thunder Bay have been very fortunate when it comes to quality live bands passing through, as well as having access to a deep well of homegrown talent. We take it for granted that we are the only real entertainment centre for eight hours in every direction, but “the times they are a-changin’.” The good and the bad news is that it is us, the fans, that effectively shape this fate. Years ago, attendance never seemed to be an issue for live shows, but many things have changed since then. People’s priorities are different, the social scene
is less fixed, and we are generally harder to entertain now that we have easy access to smartphones, social media, and other digital information. This might be a geriatric rationalization but, sadly, it is also a simple fact. Perhaps we are more concerned with value of the dollar and our time, so we are more selective about the shows we see and the time we spend socializing. It’s hard to put a finger on what the actual causes are, but the fact remains that lower attendance is making it increasingly difficult for our entertainment providers to maintain the flow of quality live acts to Thunder Bay.
Without a doubt, the nature of the entertainment business also stacks against us. As bands increase in popularity they become more financially focused, and a smaller venue means higher ticket prices. Unfortunately, these higher prices routinely result in lower turnouts and, as a result, the value of stopping in Thunder Bay becomes less of a priority and becomes a more logical prospect to simply fly right over us. At this stage, just showing up may be too little too late. But when the options are either playing to a near-empty house or travelling onto greener pastures,
There are a few things that serious music fans can do to support the city’s live music scene. Mix things up a bit and make a point of arriving early and check out the opening acts, and go to venues you may not normally frequent. Many bands I love today I discovered at live shows I went to accidentally or on a whim. Support the bands by buying their music and merchandise, and flex your social media muscles by promoting shows on your media feed—even if you might not be able to attend, if you say you are going it may influence others to go and help the show be more successful for everyone. Finally, give lesser known and local acts the support they need to keep going. Nothing takes the wind out of a band’s sails more than playing an to an empty room. Go to the local shows and be surprised by what your fellow TBayers have to offer. Nothing positive in life happens without effort. If you are a true fan of live and local music perhaps it is time to ask if you are doing your part to help the scene thrive. Without our help, the scene will undeniably wither and fade, and nobody wants that. Get up, go out, and join in! It’s just that easy.
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379 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2G1 807 344 6761 info@kangassauna.ca
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boy Roland, Play, digital illustration
The Brothers Play By Bren Shipston
The brothers play in their front yard On a sublime October day, Throwing the ninja stars that fall From the hands of the wooden giant Who offers both protection and encouragement With his firm stance, large frame, Crooked grin, and hollowing laughter. The man across the street Watches this occurrence In an unexpected state of annoyance. He questions how two kids Can find hours of enjoyment Running around a rotting, old, and possibly Bug-ridden tree, Throwing back and forth, What little leaves that still Manage to grow on it, On such a gloomy, miserable autumn day.
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Photo by Lana Pribic
theEYE - Friends Of The Road
Mary Walker
90
The Walleye
WHA
ND? T ARE E K E Y O U D O IN G T H I S W E
HIGHLIGHTS 2018 SLEEPING GIANT LOPPET Sleeping Giant Provincial Park March 3, 2018
the perfect getaway - it’s in our nature.
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2 0 1 8 S K I N AT I O N A L S Lappe Nordic Centre March 10 – 17, 2018
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