Professional Documents
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Flipper Flanagan p 11
The Sheepdogs p 29
walleye
the
Thunder Bays arts & culture alternative
Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Editor Rebekah Skochinski Associate Editor Amy Jones Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Nancy Saunders Marketing & Sales Manager Logan Wright: sales@thewalleye.ca Staff Photographer Chris Merkley Photographers Darren McChristie, John-Paul Marion, Storm Carroll, Shannon Lepere, Dave Koski, Tara George, Amy Vervoort, Uriel Lubuk, Tyler Sklazeski Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D., Dave Koski, R.G.D.: production@thewalleye.ca Business Manager Doug McChristie Ad Designer Jessica Gagnon 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 2012 by Superior Outdoors Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. Superior Outdoors Inc. Suite 242, 1100 Memorial Avenue, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 4A3 Telephone (807) 624-1215 ; Fax (807) 623-5122 E-mail: info@superioroutdoors.ca Printed in Canada Superior Outdoors Inc donates 1% of all sales to 1% for the Planet
Music Lessons
have had many music teachers throughout my life, from group sing-alongs in public school to Saturday morning piano lessons to high school band class. Not only did I learn to connect the symbols of music to what I could feel and hear, but I also learned some valuable lessons that extended beyond the piano keys. They taught me that practicing is important, especially when you dont feel like it, and that you need to strike a balancesometimes its about playing tougher pieces like Beethoven, and other times its okay to do a jig. They taught me that everyone is important, whether you have the solo or a supporting part. And if you make a mistake, you just smile, and keep on going. Its obvious that music serves a special purpose in our liveswhether were playing it, or purely enjoying it because it has the ability to reach people the way not many other things can. I was reminded of this while I was in Italy a couple of years ago. My dining companion and I decided to take a walk after dinner. As we strolled along the river we could hear something in the distancemusic. Curious, we walked towards it, the song growing louder and more familiar. Suddenly, there we were, in the middle of the Italian countryside, listening to a live band at a wedding rocking out in perfect English to Mustang Sally. It was amazing, and it just proves that you dont need to understand the language to get the rhythm. And this issue has a lot of rhythm. Tiffany Jarva goes behind the scenes with Flamenco Caravan during a recording session, Margaret Evans takes us through 45 years of Flipper Flanagan, and Peter Jabs catches up with The Campbell Family Band and talks to the creator of TBShows. com. We also have plenty of other content for you to enjoy, like a delicious recipe for black bean chili, an update on the new arts initiative that opened in the south core, and if you need a good laugh, you wont want to miss our preview of Cambrian Players season opener, Lend me a Tenor. If youre like me, you could use a good laugh come November. Its hard not to fret about what is lost (leaves from trees, longer and sunnier days) or worry about what lies ahead (snowstorms, and the hustle and bustle of a busy season) but music has something to teach us about that as well. Always focus on what is right in front of you so that you never miss a beat. Especially if it happens to be a copy of The Walleye! ~RS
www.onepercentfortheplanet.com
www.TheWalleye.ca
In error: The Corb Lund CD, Cabin Fever, was reviewed by Larry Hogard and not Joanna Aegard.
On the Cover
Photo by Shannon Lepere
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The Walleye
Contents
the
TOPfive
1
FEATURES
FILM&THEATRE
6 7
MUSIC
18 Biindigaate Indigenous Film Festival 19 Movies about Music 20 Joy on the Stage
10 The Campbell Family Band 10 Consortium Aurora Borealis 11 Flipper Flanagan 12 TBShows 13 Audio Engineers
THE ARTS
21 The Creative Commons 22 Artisans Northwest 23 Candace Twance
HEALTH
29 The Sheepdogs 29 Kim Stockwood 30 Vinyl 31 Matt Mays 31 Craig Cardiff 32 Matt Andersen Brings the Blues with TBSO
38 Fall in Love with Fall Food 39 Got the Blues? Keep Walking!
LIVING GREEN
42 Silent Victims 43 Lars on Homes: Soundproofing
If youve ever wanted to see a human piata being attacked by zombies, this is your chance. Definitely Superior Art Gallery is hosting a book launch for Nowdays, a 300-page graphic novel by local writer/artist duo Kurt Martell and Christopher Merkley that follows a group of people along a desolate highway in Northwestern Ontario during the onset of a zombie apocalypse. More than just a book launch, the event will have the creators in attendance, artwork, video works, book trailers, wandering zombies, music by Memory Lost (members of Ocean City Defender), make-up artist Ashley Meagher turning people into zombies, and much more. Dressing up is encouraged, so dig out your brain-eating gear and get your zombie on. definitelysuperior.com
ARCHITECTURE
FOOD
14 Vegan Iron Chef 15 Good Day (Sugarcane) Sunshine! 16 Beaux Daddys 17 Black Bean Chili
CITYSCENE
24 Style Smitten 25 Night Skies 26 A Lake Superior Evening featuring Derek Hatfield 27 Poppy Pride
16 34 40 44 46 47
Drink of the Month Off the Wall Reviews ZYGOTE bop November EVENTS The Wall The Eye
Based on the popular Food Network series in which competing chefs are told, one by one, to pack their knives and go, Top Chef Thunder Bay will pit chefs from 13 local restaurants against one other in a culinary battle to create the perfect bite, all in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Thunder Bay. Hosted by Chef David Adjey, star of popular Food Network programs Restaurant Makeover and The Opener, and featuring a panel of local celebrity judges that includes Superior Mornings Lisa Laco and Mayor Keith Hobbs, this promises to be a fun and tasty evening for those who managed to score tickets. If not, dont worry, The Walleye has your back we will be recapping all of the evenings mouth-watering moments for anyone who missed out. keynoteevents.ca
Chris Merkley
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invites you to a premiere
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Further solidifying its place in the downtown Port Arthur music scene, The Foundry will host two Darren McChristie of Thunder Bays premiere jazz/folk rock acts, the Damon Dowbak Trio and Robin Ranger. Rangers intricate songwriting and laid-back jazz style combined with the Damon Dowbak Trios unique mix of mandolin, drum, and bass promise to make this an evening of music you wont want to miss, in a pub that is quickly gaining a reputation in the city as a top-notch venue for live acts. Just $5 gets you in, and the show starts at 10 pm aim to get there a little earlier if you can, and try a plate of their yummy nachos. thefoundrypub.com
The Thunder Bay Potters Guild Christmas Sale at the Valhalla Inn is an annual tradition in Thunder Bay. Its a great opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping while at the same time supporting local artists there is nothing better to give or to receive than a unique, handmade gift. The potters will be selling their wares on Saturday from 10 am until 4 pm, and then again on Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. As well, you will receive one door prize ticket with every purchase if youre lucky, you could cross two people off your list, for the price of one! tbpottersguild.jimdo.com
(Main Floor and Mezzanine in Baggage Building) Saturday November 10th, 12 - 8PM Sunday November 11th, 12 - 6PM
s h a n n onle p e re . c om
In our part of the world, winter is a way of life. And the North House Folk Schools Winterers Gathering and Arctic Film Festival a multi-day educational event featuring seminars, courses, workshops, and film screenings celebrates all that our northern culture and traditions have to offer. Learn about bark-tanning and braintanning, share winter camping tips, make your own wooden toboggan, listen to some Arctic hip hop, take in an outdoor film screening, and roast some meat on a stick over a bonfire. After all, winter is coming you might as well embrace it. Event passes are only $25, and include a membership to the North House Folk School. northhouse.org
The Walleye
The Walleye
Darren McChristie
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Flamenco Caravan
Positioned to Soar
Almost six years after their last studio album, Thunder Bays critically acclaimed Flamenco Caravan is back. Their latest album Liberation features a new sound, without losing its Latin, jazz, and rock roots, and of course still wrapped in the ethereal vocals of Susanna DiGiuseppe, and Esteban Figueroas spicy flamenco guitar. Tiffany Jarva hangs out behind the scenes with the band members during a studio session and a rehearsal.
I think it needs a softer oooh here. Not so piercing. DiGiuseppe sings the ooh again and nails it. Was that as piercing? No, that was good, assures Nickerson. And the discussion flows like this for the entire session. No diva drama. No pounding of chests. Very sane. Very efficient. In fact, probably the most challenging part of putting the album together has been that lead guitarist Esteban Figueroa, known for his flamenco speed and flourishes, no longer lives in Thunder Bay. But even this doesnt seem to faze anyone. Weve just been leaving spaces in the songs, ready for him to put his mojo on them, says DiGiuseppe, who describes Figueroa as incredibly prolific at creating beautiful licks. And the long pause since the last album seems to be viewed by the band as a positive, not a negative. Its given us a chance to live with the songs longer and make changes, says drummer Jim Differ. For the first rehearsal, Differ and DiGiuseppes living room has been converted into a practise space. The clean lines with a punch of colour seem to parallel DiGiuseppes musical style: clear, gripping vocals with a punch of power on the keyboards. Differ on the drums, bassist Greg McIntosh (also trained on the piano), and rhythm guitarist Tony Agostino (whose Italian folk roots have helped shape the bands sound) all make rehearsing look effortless. There are still influences of flamenco and jazz, but now DiGiuseppes vocals vacillate between sounding like a powerful 70s songstress with a modern twist in songs like Angel and Run Away, to her more familiar Latininspired vocals in Liberation, and Summer Song. There is a reason why Flamenco Caravan has opened for acts like Colin James, Jeff Healey, and Paul Shaffer. And why they were invited to play at the Ottawa Jazz Festival. They make good music, from creating and recording, to the energy of all the musicians when performing live. Like the albums before, Liberation sparks movementmaking it so easy, once again, to be enchanted by the rhythm of Flamenco Caravan. Flamenco Caravan launches their new album during a live performance at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on November 17. Visit flamencocaravan.ca for details.
ts a cool, crisp September evening in College Heights, and I can hear Flamenco Caravan muffled vocals, drums, and guitar riffs clinging to the night air. Its the bands first rehearsal since they finished recording their third studio album, Liberation, only a few days ago. I ring the doorbell, and the music stops. Susanna DiGiuseppe opens the door: shes barefoot in a flowing black skirt and a white linen top, silver hooped earrings, and hair loosely swept back. She smiles and greets me warmly. We met once beforeearlier in August, during an overdub session at the studio of Rob Nickerson, the award-winning engineer of fiddler Olivia Korkolas 2010 album Playing in Traffic. Nickerson also plays some electric guitar on the new album and provides backup vocals, along with many other guest musicians. The album features a wide range of material, from Desire, which features 40 to 50 different tracks (horns, guitars, vocals), to Bell, which Nickerson describes as a guitar buffet. During this session, DiGiuseppe works on overdubbing a small pitchy part in the new song Run Away.
Band Members: Robin Ranger - bass Ian McLeod - drums Danny Johnson - piano Damon Dowbak mandolin and guitar How long have you been around? [Ive] performed as a musician since 1972. Musical influences: Django Reinhardt, Charles Mingus, Fraser & DeBolt, Frank Zappa, Iva Bittova, Bela Bartok, John McLaughlin, Yehudi Menuhin, Joni Mitchell, and Brian Eno What is your favourite song to perform? Our favourite song is the one were playing in the moment. Whats new? Were playing at The Foundry on November 9, and will be releasing a new CD in early 2013. Words to live by: Music is the language of us all. - The Cat Empire Contact info: facebook.com/ DDT-Damon-Dowbak-Trio myspace.com/#!/damondowbak soundcloud.com/damon-dowbak
Band members: Erin Junkala - vocals, guitar How long have you been around? About six years, although four of those were spent singing in the bedroom with my door closed. Musical influences: I have many musical influences whether they are big shots or local artistseach one motivates me in their own way. Neil Young holds a special place in my heart. What is your favourite song to perform? One of my own tunes called Two to Tango. Its a catchy one and I love singing it. Whats new? Im putting out a second album in the new year and moving out to Vancouver Island, and I just sent in a video to The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Fingers crossed. Words to live by: No regrets. Just be. Contact info: Check me out on YouTube, Soundcloud and Facebook. Type in Erin Junkala, its as easy as that.
Flamenco Caravan is (l to r), Greg McIntosh (bass), Susanna DiGiuseppe (keyboards and vocals), Jim Differ (drums & percussion), Esteban Figueroa (lead guitar), Tony Agostino (rhythm guitar).
Shannon Lepere
The Walleye
The Walleye
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Tracy K
Genre: blues
Loose Cannon
Genre: blues
Band members: Tracy K - vocals, harmonica, guitar Aaron Jardine - lead guitar Kelly Ashe - lead guitar Arden Bruyere - bass guitar Stu Green - drums Jamie Steinhoff (Blues Duo) - fingerstyle acoustic and slide dobro guitars How long have you been around? Ive been making music since the 80s. Musical influences: Blues, roots, swing/jazz, psychedelia, British invasion, Led Zeppelin, Bonnie Raitt, and 60s radio. What is your favourite song to perform? With the band, Keep On Lovin Me and Stormy Monday and, in my blues duo, Atlanta Moan, Canned Heat, and Lover Man. Whats new? Some awesome originals with my Blue Thunder band for the next recording and more touring to far places with the duo and band. We are playing the Foundry on November 30. Words to live by: Youve got the goodsnow go for it. The last person you should be afraid of is yourself. Concentrate on enjoying the ride rather than obsessing on the goalattention is an insatiable craving. Contact info: www.tracyk.ca
Band Members: Arley Hughes - vocals Samantha Chong - guitar Gary Hare - keyboards Mike McFarlane - drums Carol Pominville - bass guitar How long have you been around? One year (as a band, variable for each member) Musical influences: Led Zeppelin, Sting, and Stevie Ray Vaughn What is your favourite song to perform? The three new songs we wrote for the blues competition: It Wasnt Me, Killing Time, and Anything. Whats new? We are. Words to live by: Be positive. Contact info: carolpominville@shaw.ca
Olivia Korkola
Genre: Celtic
Pierre Schryer
Genre: Celtic
Robin Ranger
Genre: jazz, aboriginal
Scott Skirving
Genre: country/rock
Sunday Wilde
Genre: blues, jazz, R&B
Band members: Mark Potvin - vocals and guitar Tom Sinkins - bass guitar Wayne Breiland - drums Max Potvin - cornet Ben Potvin - tenor trombone Sam Potvin - tenor saxophone How long have you been around? The Blues band has been around in some form for about 15 years. Musical influences: Muddy Waters, Big Joe Turner, Louis Jordan, and T-Bone Walker. What is your favourite song to perform? Caldonia Whats new? Were always working on new horn charts and material to keep the band fresh. Words to live by: Go hard or go home, cause this is show business... so you gotta show your business!! Contact info: facebook.com/pages/ Mark-Potvin/88915683879 music.cbc.ca/#/artists/Mark-Potvin markpotvin.ca mark@markpotvin.com
Band members: Clay Breiland - vocals and guitar Gord Ellis - guitar Richard Tribe - keys Dave Campbell - drums Rory Bohler - bass How long have you been around? Monty and the Mule has had several manifestations over the last three years. The current lineup may also be seen playing reggae under the name Rocksteady. Musical influences: From Albert Collins to Zeppelin... Muddy, Otis Redding, SRV, Stevie Wonder, Miles, Dylan, Marley, Burning Spear, Jonny Lang, Hank Snow, Hank Jr. & Sr., Coltrane, Pino Palidino, Dr. John, BB, Buddy, Cash, Aretha, Thelonious, Snarky Puppy, Skaggs, Levon Helm, etc. Whats new? Playing the Apollo on November 2 and Crocks on November 30. Words to live by: Satisfy your imagination. Contact info: claybreiland@gmail.com
Band members: Dr. Mark R. Thibert - sax Glenn Jennings -piano Rory Slater - bass Jim Differ - drums How long have you been around? 20 years Musical influences: Coltrane, Getz, Webster, Adderley, Parker, Desmond, Evans, Mulligan, Krall, Peterson, Baker, and Brown. What is your favourite song to perform? Pink Panther theme Whats new? Were playing at the Valhalla weekly, Fridays and Saturdays, 6-10 pm. Words to live by: Carpe diem. Contact info: mthibert@tbaytel.net facebook.com/Mood Indigo Jazz twitter: @moodindigojazz
Band member(s): Olivia Korkola - fiddle How long have you been around? Since I was 15 Musical influences: Paul Simon, Hank Williams, George Jones, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Martin Hayes, Ashley MacIsaac, Liz Carroll, Don Messer, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, the Rolling Stones, Albert Lee, Bill Monroe, Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, and Blind Lemon Jefferson. Favourite song to perform? A big bunch of irish reels accompanied by a wicked DADGAD Irish guitar player. Whats new? My fiddle and bow. I love them so. And, Im working on a new album with musicians from the States, Canada, and possibly Finland. Words to live by: Be truthful, gentle and fearless. - Ghandi Contact info: okorkola@berklee.edu oliviakorkola.com
Band member(s): Pierre Schryer - fiddle and French Canadian foot percussion How long have you been around? 11 years Musical influences: My triplet brothers (Dan and Louis), Denis Lanctot, Jean Carignan, Sean McGuire, Andy McGann, Mark OConnor, and many more... Favourite song to perform? Tanera Morone I wrote for my wife Whats new? Im coaching the Kam Valley Fiddlers with Rob Randle and Dave Kimpton, teaching private fiddle students, hosting a bi-weekly session at Gargoyles, preparing for an Orchestra Pops concert with the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony Orchestra, thinking about the 12th annual June Canadian Celtic Celebration... Words to live by: Never give up...it only gets better! Contact info: canadianceltic@gmail.com CanadianCelticCelebration.com
Members: Robin Ranger - guitar, upright bass How long have you been around? 10 years Musical influences: Cole Porter, Nina Simone, Miles Davis, Ahmad Jamal, and Stan Getz What is your favourite song to perform? Gershwins Summertime Whats new? Im thrilled and grateful for the reception of View From Seventh Sky, released last April. Im amazed at the airplay and support from local stations and from across the country...playing a surprisingly large number of gigs around the city with some of its most incredible players. Im booking a potential jazz festival tour next summer. Words to live by: We may have to improvise. Contact info: robinranger.com
Band members: Dan Zadkovich - lead guitar Brad Leishman - drums Dave Miskimins - bass guitar Brian Vodopivec - keyboards How long have you been around? I have been in the music scene for 18 years. Musical influences: Triumph, Billy Dean, Van Halen, Alan Jackson, Rush, Garth Brooks, Journey, and Kenny Rogers What is your favourite song to perform? Certified Country Boy, written by Steve and Scott Skirving Whats new? Just returned from the Canadian Country Music Awards Week in Saskatoon. Looking at releasing a second single off my debut album titled Here I Amthe first release is called Pretty Eyes. Words to live by: Many of lifes failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. - Thomas A. Edison Contact info: scottskirving.com facebook.com/scott.skirving @scottskirving reverbnation.com/scottskirving
Band members: Sunday Wilde - vocals and piano How long have you been around? Moaning and crying with words 10 years, piano four years. Musical influences: Nina Simone, Ruth Brown, and so many other women. Whats new? My fourth album will be released in mid-December (the recording engineer was the sound technician at the now defunct Maple Leaf Gardens). In January, Ill be the only Canadian among 14 blues woman from around the world recording in Clarksdale, Mississippi, for a women in blues cd compilation. I am also working on a songwriting project on the subject of loss, that was funded by the Canada Arts Council. What is your favourite song to perform? Sundays Midnight Blues, Show Me a Man and, one of my most recent songs, Why is He Telling Me to Hush? Words to live by: Learn to build bridges, its the only way you move forward. Contact: sundaywilde@gmail.com sundaywilde.com reverbnation.com/sundaywilde
The Walleye
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Chris Merkley
hose of us who are of a certain vintage can likely recall spending many happy hours browsing the aisles at Eatons. But the real treat was reserved for those shoppers who were lucky enough to catch a performance by Consortium Aurora Borealis. Whether perched on top of the perfume counter or celebrating the music of Spain at the foot of the escalator, Consortium Aurora Borealis has stepped out of the box on many occasions to bring their music to the people. Founder and longtime artistic director Elizabeth Ganiatsos says that this has always been the goal of Consortium. Consortium Aurora Borealis came into being out of an enthusiasm for the music of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods and a desire to share this love with the community, she says. We want our performances to bring happiness and beauty into the lives of our audience members. We have a fervour and enthusiasm about the music that we present and we communicate our excitement and passion through the energies and talents of our musicians. Each season Consortium presents six varied concerts of chamber music, primarily from the Baroque period, with occasional forays into the Medieval, Renaissance, Classical and Early Romantic eras. Its distinctive programming style is reflected in many carefully researched, historically themed concerts. Local professional soloists and chamber ensembles, instrumental and vocal, are joined on occasion by such distinguished visiting artists as virtuoso violinist Jeremy Bell, soprano Monica Whicher, and others. Now in its 34th year and based in St. Pauls United Church, which is renowned for its acoustics, Consortium Aurora Borealis has developed a diverse and devoted following. The people who attend our concerts quickly feel like family. They are the kind of events where you can come by on your own and not feel strange. Its not stuffy at all. Its warm and friendlyand great fun, says Ganiatsos. Join Consortium Aurora Borealis on November 10 at 8 pm at St. Pauls United Church for Dazzling Doubles! Italian Baroque Concertos. Visit consortiumauroraborealis.org for more details.
Flipper Flanagan
The Four Turn 45
Story By Margaret Evans
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Hosted by Lakehead University Remedial Action Plan Oce, Lake Superior Discovery Place and EcoSuperior Sponsored by:
Flipper Flanagans Flat Footed Four has been making audiences move their feet and clap their hands for 45 years, and now are also entertaining the youngsters with their alter-egos The Grumpy Grampas (who dont actually seem to be all that grumpy). The characters who make up these groups are Banjo Bob Balabuck, Jamie The Fiddling Fool Gerow, who has the other strings covered, Brian Thompson, who keeps the rhythm with anything at hand, and Jack Wall, whose bass playing keeps them all sounding unified. My earliest memories of these guys go back to when we were all much younger, when they would appear on stage at the Lakeview Lodge on warm summer evenings, or out at the Neebing on a cold winter night. I missed seeing a couple of them at the Last Spike Coffee House, but they were there. Cruising down the north shore to play the smaller communities in the earlier days were their weekend adventures. They have played everywhere from bars to churches, from the stage at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium (TBCA) to the stages at country fairs. They have spent their afternoons playing for children, and then in the evening put some bounce in the shoes at the retirement home. And their generous spirits have them giving back to this community at many fundraisers and benefits. When asked about their most memorable times, a few chuckles are shared, and then some stories. The ground-breaking for the TBCA, and that dance in Schreiber in 78, where it got so wild that an unmanned snowmobile came up the stairs of the high school. The farewell for Arthur Black, and the moon on stage at Confederation College back when streaking was in. Not ones to be stifled, they were once kicked off the stage for singing The Pill back in 1967. Because these four boys grew up together, going through the various stages of life, they share more than just their love of music. This is why their harmonies are the heart of this groupthey just know where their voices are going to fit inside each others. Another reason for their anti-aging, is the enthusiastic energy, and the intense love they bring along to each performance.
t is heaven on a Saturday night as 16 couples glide around the dance floor of Royal Canadian Legion 225 in Kakabeka Falls, lost in the floating sensation of the music. The sixpiece Campbell Family band, shoehorned onto a 8x16 mobile stage under the Queens portrait at the front, synchronize the dancers as they move about in intricate patterns so swiftly and smoothly as if to seem they were ice-skating. Dancers Joyce and Don Wiggins of Thunder Bay have driven out to hear this ensemble since the 70s, when it was so full you couldnt find a seat. The musicians are no wizards weaving a magic spell, however. They are simply the Campbell Family Band, formally attired in black and white, solidly delivering a well rounded program. Our band was originally made up of our five children and myself, says Glen Campbell, as he settles into a wooden chair next to me with his intermission beer. We first started playing music for seniors and at hospitals on a volunteer basis. In 1984, we were asked to play for a dance at the Marathon Legion. We kept playing dances and weddings for the next nine years. After a hiatus of a few years when the two youngest sons left to play in a band based in Guelph, the band started up again in 2009. The addition of terrific fiddle player Jeremy McCubbin of
Kakabeka completed the present lineup which also includes Glen, sons Colin and Chris, daughter Jennifer, and her husband Don Kukkee. Our home is in Conmee township right beside Brule Creek. All of our five children went to Westgate High School and played in their concert and stage bands. My father, who was a great fiddle player, showed me how to chord on the piano when I was five years old. This versatility is the key to their success. Each musician is a multi-instrumentalist, which allows for a wide range of soundsfrom the big band punch of five horns swinging on a Duke Ellington number, to five guitars rocking Pretty Woman, to a pair of fiddles sweetly pouring out a country tune. Between sets, Jennifer hands out a sheet listing the songs, type of dance, number of bars, beats per minute, and room for requests at the bottom. This is a serious enough event to interest at least a few dance instructors intent on tripping the light fantastic. Why stay home watching Dancing with the Stars on TV when the real thing is available live? The Campbell Family Band will be playing Beaux Daddys for a Mardi Gras night on October 31, and at Trinity Hall on November 17 and December 1. Visit campbellfamilyband.com for details.
With support from: Thunder Bay Yacht Club; MNP; Werner Schwar Landscape Architect; Horizon Wind Inc.
Tickets: $75 Dinner & Speaker (6 pm) $20 Speaker only (8:30 pm) On sale now at EcoSuperior 562 Red River Rd (at Hill St) Victoria Inn 555 West Arthur St.
Front row, left to right: Gregory Lewis, violin (guest student performer; Jennifer Bryan, violin; Elizabeth Ganiatsos, harpsichord; Martin Blanchet, double bass; Birgit Rieck (in red dress), recorder; Colleen Kennedy, oboe; Doris Dungan, flute. Second line, left to right: Patrick Horn, viola; Anthony Bacon, cello; Karine Breton, bassoon. Missing from photo: Michelle Zapf-Blanger, violin.
And their outlook is one of anticipation. They are already implementing newly learned musical structure, gained by Gerow attaining his Royal Conservatory grade ten. Who knew that these four friends, who came together because of their musical inclinations, would still be holding their audiences in the palms of their hands after 45 years? Flipper Flanagans Flat Footed Four play The Foundry on December 1. You can follow their antics at flipperflanagan.com.
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Jarron Childs
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Audio Engineers
The Unsung Heroes
By Jamie J. Varga
An audio engineer is a specialist in a skilled trade that deals with the use of machinery and equipment for the recording, mixing and reproduction of sounds. (Wikipedia)
$599.95
If you frequent the local music scene, you will no doubt know the importance of the audio engineer. They are like unplanned extra members of bands playing in the bar scene, and can often make or break a show. I was once told that it is better to play badly and sound good than to play well and sound like trash. Essentially, nothing is worse than coming off the stage after a great gig only to find that it sounded brutal off the stage. Unfortunately, the job can be thankless at timesin fact, if audio engineers are doing their job, nobody knows they are there. To some, this makes the job a little like digging dirt; to others, its what makes them the unsung heroes of the local music scene.
TBShows
By Peter Jabs
Tyler Sklazeski
Tyler Sklazeski
f variety is the spice of life, then Thunder Bay is definitely well-seasoned. Check out TBShows.comthe premiere live entertainment listing in townfor proof. If you take a look at their Top Five, youll find everything from rock, DJ, metal, house, and electronica, to blues, jazz, and classical. And in their extensive poster archive, which has information on every event listing since 2005, youll find even more. Thunder Bays Jimmy Wiggins started Wiggins Productions in 2001, while he was still in high school, to organize shows for his own band and those of his friends. After completing the marketing program at Confederation College and then the advertising program at Mohawk Collage, he and friend Andrew Ryan noted a void in the local music scene. There wasnt any online calendar that focused on music, says Wiggins. So, in 2004, they started what Wiggins describes as a pretty basic siteno pictures, nothing flashy at all. With a perfect combination of skills and training, Ryan designed all of the back end coding and Wiggins promoted the site. After Ryan left Thunder Bay, Wiggins ran the site himself before adding local musicians Kevin Sidlar and Jean-Paul De Roover to the team. They have also had assistance and encouragement from members of the local entertainment scene, and have developed partnerships with LU Radio, Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Black Pirates Pub, and Crocks. The team is currently completing a major overhaul of the site and are planning on a winter 2013 relaunch. Anyone is free to upload their events to TBShows, and Im always surfing the web for more events to add, says Wiggins, adding that the goal is to have a one-stop site for up-to-date and accurate information on all live entertainment going on in TBay. Over the years, Wiggins has seen a lot of changes in the local music scene. [Its gone ] from a very strict metal and punk scene into more rock and rockabilly, then emo and hardcore, then a massive wave of DJs and electronica, he says. Now there seems to be a fairly balanced mix of rock bands, metal bands and DJs. And who are some of the scenes up-and-coming bands? The Unbalanced (younger guys pumping out some really heavy songs), DJ Classic Roots (his crowds have been getting bigger and bigger with every show), TAPOUT (a mix of Rock Truck and Norris) and Dont You(,) Mean People? (three-piece instrumental, kinda jazz/math rock). Very interesting stuff. Clearly, Wiggins is not only passionate about local music, but he knows the scene inside-outwhich makes him the perfect man for this job. This issue of The Walleye marks the start of our partnership with TBShows, which builds on our effort to promote the local music scene.
The Apollo
Audio Engineer:
The Foundry
Audio Engineer:
Alex Pederson
Pederson, like many audio engineers, comes from a background in performing music. Having played guitar in a few bands back home in Toronto, he has an ear for how a show is meant to sound, and has picked up some technical know-how along the way. Pederson found himself filling the need for a regular audio engineer at The Apollo about four years ago. Among his favourites of the acts he has set up are Keith Hallett and Garret Mason, two of Canadas premiere blues musicians.
When Jaroli told me he got his start at Desotos music in 1992, I had a Thunder Bay flashback of epic proportions (Desotos was a DJ service that played high school dances, shags, etc.). After moving to Toronto in 1994 to pursue a career as a DJ, Jaroli established himself and began development on his alter ego, Paladin. A performanceart-meets-live-electronica show, Paladin 6.2 is what established Jarolis knowledge of audio equipment over the years. Being a performer who relies on audio engineering is what has taught Jaroli that louder isnt betterbetter is better! To see what the future holds for Jaroli, check out his website, p4l4din.com.
CALL 807-622-8500
12
Tyler Sklazeski
The Walleye
13
Food
Food
The Mojito
8 mint leaves 1 lime
n January 19, 2013, Confederation Colleges Rumours Dining Room will be transformed into Kitchen Stadium for a night of competition like no other. Vegan Iron Chef Thunder Baya spin on the popular Food Network programwill take place in front of a live local audience, highlighting the citys talented professional and amateur chefs. Hosted by Veg Thunder Bay, a vegan education group, and Confederation Colleges Culinary Management Program, this event is exactly what Thunder Bays food lovers have been waiting for. The challenge is on, and Veg Thunder Bays Maria Talarico hopes this competition not only celebrates our citys culinary talent, but highlights vegan ingredients that are less familiar. There will be two categories: amateur and professional. Amateur cooks will be paired a student sous chef from the Culinary Management Program, while in the professional category of local chefs will compete individually. Whole soybean products like tempeh, amaranth, grains, and cheeses made from nuts and tapioca will be made into entre dishes, and judged by a panel of four: Marija Harp of Sweet Peas Home Catering & Restaurant, raw food chef Helen Liba of Superior Shores Wellness Centre, columnist Fred Jones, and chef and faculty member in the Confederation College Culinary Program Bill Gregorash. Raw food dessert chef and food blogger Heather Pace will be the Roaming Food Guru, giving a a play-by-play of the competition. The past decade has really seen this city evolve into a culinary town, with people not only seeking farm fresh quality at home, but expecting it in restaurants. Twenty years ago, it was impossible to find vegetarian, never mind vegan, on a Thunder Bay menu, but now theres not only choice, but entire meals available. Now, with the help of Vegan Iron Chef, those at the forefront of Thunder Bays new culinary culture can step into the spotlight.
Tickets for Vegan Iron Chef will be available as of November 15 at Bonobos Foods, The Green House, Steepers, Nutrition Corner, and Kellys Nutrition. Learn more about Vegan Iron Chef and local veganism by contacting vegthunderbay@gmail.com or by calling 766-9991.
NOMINATE TODAY!
Nominate an artist, cultural organization/group or business that has made a significant achievement in or demonstrated support for the local cultural sector. Show your recognition of their valuable contributions to the community. Awards vary from cash prizes to original artwork created by local artists. Ceremony to be held in December. Categories:
Visual Art Performing & Media Art Heritage Cultural Organization Emerging Youth Artist Cultural Educator Cultural Supporter Cultural Business Large Business Small Business
ALL BOTTLES IN OUR FRIDGE $4.50 SHOTS $4.00 BOTTLES OF HEINEKEN AND CORONA $4.50
Thursdays: Bottles
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The Walleye
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Food
Beaux Daddys
By Michelle McChristie
B
Darren McChristie
eaux Daddys is unlike any other restaurant in Thunder Bay, thanks to the vision of its founder, Richard (Dick) Davidson. Davidson started to transform the former Uncle Franks Supper Club (with its iconic sign inviting you to Come As You Are) to a New Orleans-inspired cajun (make that Ca-NA-jun) grill house about four years ago. Just inside the front doors, there is a display of memorabilia from Uncle Franks, including a menu from the 50s, and photos of patrons and staff. Davidson also reused the chairs, and one of the awnings from the exterior of the building. True to their Canajun brand, Beaux Daddys has two themed dining roomsthe French Restaurant, which has a more intimate and formal atmosphere than the main seating area, and the Acadian Lodge, complete with wall-mounted fish and a stone fireplace. The horseshoe bar looks like it could have come straight from Bourbon Street, and the replica of Uncle Franks neon sign and original yellow coach lanterns above the kitchen is a nice touch. Davidsons attention to detail in the restaurant is impressive and there is a lot to take in during a first-time visit.
The menu has a variety of Cajun entres, such as shrimp Creole, jambalaya, southern-fried buttermilk chicken, and blackened catfish, as well as burgers, steaks, and seafood. The blackened catfish is excellentit has just the right amount of heat and is nice with a Caesar salad. Kids will enjoy the mini corn dogs and nawlins boulettesdough that is stuffed with spicy andouille sausage and local gouda, then deep fried and served with marinara dipping sauce (youll never eat mozza sticks again!). Tragically, Richard Davidson passed away in August, shortly after Beaux Daddys grand opening. His youngest son, Christopher, is now responsible for continuing his fathers vision to bring back dancing and romancing. Check out their music listings at beauxdaddys.com or the online calendar at thewalleye.ca and, yes, its still okay to come as you are. Beaux Daddys is located at 1575 Highway 61; call 622-111 for reservations (recommended, but not required).
Fall Training Tours Dinner & A Night Run Team Building & Leadership Development
www.borealjourneys.com
In a large, heavy-bottomed, chili-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions (this is where youd add and brown the ground meat, if youre using it) and saut until onions become soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. At this point, you can either continue cooking the chili on the stove, or throw it all into a slow cooker and get on with your day. Add the garlic, celery, and jalapeno, then cover and cook for another five minutes. Reduce the heat and stir in the spices (cumin, oregano, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, chili powder, black pepper, salt) along with the bell peppers. Cover again and cook for another five minutes. Stir often to keep the spices from burning. If the pan gets too dry, add a little liquid from the diced tomatoes, or some water. Next, add the black beans, tomatoes, corn, salsa, lime juice (if using), and soy sauce. Let the chili simmer on low for 5 to 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly and flavors combine. Stir in the chocolate. When chocolate has melted, taste to adjust the salt and pepper. Serve topped with any or all of: crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, cilantro leaves and sour cream.
Chris Merkley
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The Walleye
The Walleye
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FilmTheatre
FilmTheatre
1 Almost
Young wunderkind journalist sets out on the road looking for the spirit of rock and roll, finds Kate Hudson instead.
Famous
he Biindigaate opening gala at Definitely Superior Art Gallery was buzzing. Filmgoers meandered among the pieces of seven local and regional artists, including new pieces by Candace Twance, Christian Chapman, and ornate hand-carved guitars by Erick and Lisa Hanson. And local jazz musician Robin Ranger played live, until Classic Roots took over electronically.
This year at Biindigaate, over 30 films were screened, ranging from the nine-minute animated Amaqqut Nunaaat (The Country of Wolves) to the documentary Roberts Paintings, about the acclaimed artist Robert Houle who attended residential school. One big highlight was having three world-class up-and-coming filmmakers together and available for questions during the Friday night screenings of Liar by Adam Garnet Jones, Parkdale
by Lisa Jackson (who was recently voted as one of the top ten Canadian directors to watch), and the thought-provoking documentary Smoke Traders by Jeff Dorn. My favourite was the festivals closing dramatic film, On the Ice (Silumi). I loved its cinematographycapturing the white, isolated landscape and the stark beauty of a small Alaskan townand how well director Andrew Okpeha Maclean created the mounting tension and layered mystery behind the death of a young seal hunter. Judging by the calibre of films and the amount of people in attendance, year four of the Biindigaate Indigenous Film Festival was clearly a success. And Ive already got my calendar marked for year five. On the Ice is available on iTunes. Information on all the other films screened at the festival can be found at biindigaate.ca.
2 Hustle
and Flow
Terrence Howard plays a Memphis pimp-turnedrapper, inconceivably helps Three 6 Mafia win an Academy Award.
3 Blues The
Brothers
Car chases, a mission from God, and a cast that includes everyone whos anyone in soul music. Oh, and did we mention car chases?
4 The
Piano
A mute Holly Hunter teaches Harvey Keitel to play piano, falls in love, loses a finger in mid-19th century New Zealand.
5 The
Wedding Singer
A love story set in the time of high hair, neon stretch pants, and Boy George. Featuring what is arguably the best Billy Idol cameo of all time.
6 Walk
the Line
Joaquin Phoenixs careerhigh performance as Johnny Cash (not to be confused with John C. Reillys career-low performance as Dewey Cox in the disastrous parody Walk Hard).
7 High
Fidelity
Record-store owner mopes about his life, organizes his records autobiographically, and sets the precedent for all aspiring music snobs around the world.
8 is This
Spinal Tap
The original mockumentary, made by the people who invented the genre. Put on your leather pants and turn it up to eleven.
9Mile 8
Eminem plays Eminem before he was Eminem.
10 The Triplets
of Belleville
Brilliant animated film in which an elderly woman joins three music hall performers to try to rescue a kidnapped Tour-de-France cyclist, with the help of the most loveable cartoon dog since Snoopy.
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The Walleye
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ITC AN
FilmTheatre
presents a production of
theArts
Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater Music by Alan Menken Book by Doug Wright Based on the Hans Christian Andersen Story and the Disney Film Produced by Howard Ashman & John Musker and written & directed by John Musker and Ron Clements
Disney
live entertainment: blues, blues rock, classic rock, swing (for every generation) private catering available
From l to right, Stacey Hare Hodgins, Angie Gollat, and Meg Sheepway
Stajkowski designed by Stajkowski
Stajkowski
Stajkowski
robbyn@stajkowski.ca 807.620.3800
807-622-1111 beauxdaddys.com
The Little Mermaid JR. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, NY 10019 Phone: (212) 541-4684 Fax: (212) 397-4684 www.MTIShows.com
ambrian Players will kick off their 2012-2013 season this month with Ken Ludwigs Tony-award winning comedy Lend Me a Tenor, directed by Lawrence Badanai, The show centres around a production of the opera Otello that goes hilariously awry when the star is accidentally given a double dose of tranquilizers. What follows is a chaotic combination of mistaken identity, farcical plot twists, double entendres, and musical mayhem that is sure to keep audiences in stitches. Lend Me a Tenor has had our cast laughing since our first reading and every rehearsal since, says Badanai. The show is filled with verbal and physical humour that is designed to bring the audience along for a ride of unlikely, extravagant, and improbable situations. With a talented cast that features Chris Jason, Lauren Payette, Richard Pepper, Rory Ryan, Felicia N. Seyfert, Colin Stewart, Tracey Tebbenham, and Bev Gravelle MacLeod, the show promises lots of physical comedy. The wonderful thing about farce is that the plotlines are so outlandish, the actors are relieved of constraints, says Badanai. They can (and do) go over the top. When their performances are so polished as to be convincingly hilarious, the result is an absolute joy. And joy is exactly the effect that the production is going for. Its about going to the theatre and forgetting life for a couple of hours, Badanai says. That is the end goal. Lend Me a Tenor runs November 810 and November 1417 at 8 pm at the Paramount Theatre, 24 South Court St. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors, and are available at Fireweed, Steepers, and at the door. Visit cambrianplayers.ca for more details.
E
Save on a
xcitement is contagious. And its hard to contain the excitement about the recently opened arts initiative, The Creative Commons an arts hub for artists, writers, photographers and the like who need a place to create, grow, and share their talents. The trio of Angie Gollat, Meg Sheepway, and Stacey Hare Hodgins (with support from Ben Lucyk) have created a living art space that they hope will enable people to do what they love to do. Inspired by one another, and the possibilities that arise when working together, there seem to be no limits to their vision. Their wish: to serve the community, to respond and react to what the community indicates is needed and wanted, to be dynamic and evolving. We felt a call for help and renewal, Gollat says of their reason for choosing the south core. And a need to connect to the geography, with the hopes of a ripple effect. Further to that, The Creative Commons is looking at green and urban renewal initiatives. For now, there is yoga arts programming, pottery classes, painting, study circles (music, meditation), and something they call idea jamming. They will also be offering studio space rental, and are looking for volunteers. When I visited, there was colourful art on the walls (there will be rotating artists work each month; currently you can see new work by Christian Chapman), instruments lazily hanging about in front of an expanse of windows, and the comforting smell of chili was in the air. Its exciting to see a place like this open its doors to the community, and I will eagerly watch the excitement catch fire. One person at a time. Stop by The Creative Commons to see what its all about at 116 Syndicate Avenue South (located about the former Good News) or keep track of them at thecreativecommons.ca and on Facebook.
Only $49
gamescomplex.com
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(807) 684-3311
The Walleye
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K. Hodgins
theArts Food
theArts
Artisans Northwest
Story and Photos By Amy Vervoort
hether they are putting their passion on paper, or carving it in wood, artists and artisans share a very personal side of themselves through their work. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Thunder Bay Museums Artisans Northwest Exhibition, which showcases sewing, woodwork, jewellery, glass work, and painting inspired by life in Thunder Bay. Artisans Northwest formed in 1975 as a nonprofit, member-run organization of area artists and artisans whose annual Art & Fine Craft Show has become one of the most highly anticipated events of the year. There are more than 100 members of Artisans Northwesta balanced group, diverse and original, who together provide a forum for artistic encouragement and community, a professional outlet, and opportunity for demonstration. Membership is juried and based on criteria such as creativity, artistic and aesthetic
merit, originality, and quality of craftsmanship. Some members are hobbyists, others are professionals, but all are passionate about what they do. On November 17 and 18, four rooms at the Valhalla Inn will be decorated with interesting displays by 74 of the artists and artisans of Artisans Northwest for their 37th Annual Art & Fine Craft Show. The executive has been working all year to bring the show to life, each year striving to bring new work to the show. This year is no exception. The exposure for local artists is important, but it is also a chance for the community to meet the artists and artisans who decorate our city and homes. Artisans Northwest will be on display at the Thunder Bay Museum until November 11. Their work is also available at places like Local Colour Art Gallery, the Baggage Building Arts Centre at Prince Arthurs Landing, and Fireweed. For more information, visit artisansnorthwest.ca.
Holiday Hours from November 8, to December 22 807-622-9627 132 Cumming Street Thunder Bay, ON Tues Sat 11am-5pm visit our blog for more info vintagepixiestudio.blogspot.com www.vintagepixiestudio.com
Candace Twance
Paintings With a Presence
By Ally Arnone
nspiring people surround us in our community if only we take the time to look. One such person is Candace Twance, a talented, motivated young Ojibwe artist and musician. Last November, she was featured in The Walleye for her music, which she records and performs under the alias Sea Ballast. Twance has also won numerous awards for her art and is actively involved in the arts community. As one of the founding members of the Biindigaate Indigenous Film Festival, she organizes a coinciding annual exhibition at Definitely Superior Art Gallery. A spiritual young woman, Twance believes in the traditional teachings of her people and sees herself in the role of storyteller and visionary. As a child, she loved art and can remember how she never liked colouring books, preferring to draw outside the lines. Twance names several contemporary indigenous artists as influences, including George Littlechild, Jane Ash Poitras, and Linus Woods. In her own work, she tries to suggest the different layers of reality by using layers of paint as a metaphor. For her, there is an intuitive relationship between colours and people because she believes in the strong associations between feelings, spirituality, and colour. It is evident in Twances work that she has a connection to colour in that she consistently chooses vibrant, intense hues coupled with dynamic compositions. One painting in particular, Red Bird, stands out because Twance describes it as a piece of which she is particularly fondit is a portrait of her sister, whose nickname is Miskobenays, or Red Bird. The dominant colour scheme is cool blues and warm pinks with a punch of red, but there is something very electric about it that makes you feel like Red Bird is looking right at you. Indeed, the same thing can be said of most of Twances workthat there is an energy to it that draws the viewer into the gazes of these dreamlike portraits. I want my paintings to have a presence, she says. Its kind of a goal for me, to have my paintings speaking for themselves. You can see more of Twances work at Ahnisnabae Art Gallery.
Call your Marlin Travel Professional at: 301 Bay Street 345-5432
(formerly Thunder Country Travel)
1155N.5May5St.
Victorias5Cupboard
Thunder5Bay,5ON
(807)5622-7821
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CityScene
CityScene
Style Smitten
By Justyna Kondakow
Night Skies
By Bonnie Schiedel
Night falls earlier and earlier at this time of year, but the payoff is vast starry skies, ethereal northern lights, and a bright silvery moon. Here are two ways to make your local sky-watching experiences memorable.
Name
Name
Location
Location
On-site equipment
On-site equipment
A 20-inch telescope, one of the largest for public viewing in Canada. The adjacent Discovery Centre will be home to astronomy software and computers, and video feed and projection systems for observing images.
Three telescopes, including a 16-inch advanced optics model, with four cameras to capture video and images. A separate automated observatory is used for large format imaging and research.
What to expect
What to expect
View the heavens through a powerful telescope, then check out video and still images of recent celestial activity (for example, the Transit of Venus), downloaded from the cameras attached to the telescope. Historic navigation equipment and a meteorite collection will also be on display in the Discovery Centre.
Get stunning views of the night sky with professional equipment that has the ability to view a billion stellar objects ranging from stars to meteors. There is also a new 70-seat multiscreen mini-planetarium for viewing. Listen to talks about a variety of topics, such as 5000 Years of Astronomy.
Cool detail
Cool detail
Darren McChristie
Head-to-toe
Sleeping Giant Antiques - earring and brooch set Mister J - mens French cuff oxford shirt (special order) Fathers closet - silk tie, elk cufflinks, wool band practice trousers Mothers closet - belt Internets closet - patent leather shoes
David Thompson, a surveyor with the North West Company, drew on tools like a telescope, sextant and chronometer, as well as his skills in math, astronomy and surveying, to create a massive map of an area of almost 4 million square kilometres. First Nations peoples called him the stargazer.
thunderbayobservatory.com
am one of the few lucky girls who has managed to maintain a summer romance beyond the lusty humidity. Most of the time, these flings begin with cooed lyrics of affection; other times the squire attracts the eye with unmistakable personality in style. But this particular romance skewered me with a shish-kebab of both words and threads. This blossoming romance first began with when he lured me in with his razor-sharp tailoring, yet somehow he turned the focus back on The Way You Look Tonight. His cigarette looked great if not for anything more than the amber light dissolving the outline of his silhouettewe looked like a pair of Strangers In The Night. And naturally, things became steady between us when I asked him to Fly Me To The Moon. I still find myself dozing off over my notebook to the sight of his last name partnered with my first: Mrs. Justyna Sinatra. And much like sharing a last name, sometimes a subliminal influence can take hold. This may be in terms of the tone in which they speak, how they think, or even how they dress. I was no exceptionalthough far from a boyfriends slouchy
sweater, I found myself gravitating towards Franks style, and channelling his classic elegance Still dreaming of the serenade from last nights date with lyrics reminiscent of the Summer Wind, I fling open my closet doors. Typically wondering what to wear for the next encounter, I instinctively choose the best representation of a clean-cut Sinatra: the white, French cuff oxford shirt. I press the shirt up against myself and slowly glide towards the mirror. I imagine what to wear to do the shirt justice without straying from its air of the debonnaire. Its like fashion tit for tatwhen you balance key factors in an outfit, you develop personal style rather than follow a typical theme. I juxtapose the masculine influence with vibrant accents from my feminine side by wearing an earring and brooch set alongside my fathers neck tie and elk cufflinks. I find that the contrast of the accessories merely emphasizes the pure white, starched heaven of the oxford shirt. When you achieve the balance between influence and personality, you cant help but feel like youve Got The World On A String.
Looking for more night sky action? The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) Thunder Bay Centre holds monthly meetings at Confederation College, plus public events at various locations (such as Hillcrest Park and provincial parks) throughout the year. Visit tbrasc.org for details.
Dumbbell Nebula
ave you ever been out walking on a snowy evening, and through a lit window caught a quick glimpse of a neighbours beautiful holiday decor and had the sudden urge to knock on their door and ask for a look around? Well, with the Thunder Bay Art Gallerys Christmas House Tour, you can indulge all your voyeuristic urges and not get a criminal record in the process! The Annual Christmas House Tour is made up of a group of local homeowners who generously open their doors and offer up their homes to some amazing local decorators to be fully decked out in the latest and greatest of holiday style. With their ticket as their passport, visitors take a self-guided tour through some of Thunder
Bays most enviable homes. And what better way to get fresh holiday ideas for your own space? 2012 marks the 14th year of the Art Gallerys Christmas House Tour, and this one promises to be as exciting as ever. New to the tour this year is the Young Residence, a beautiful manor nestled right beside Vickers Park, and Over the Top, a new decorator and event planner in town, as well as an Artisans Holiday Market offered at the gallery. Tickets are $20 for the regular tour Nov 11, and $30 for the Candlelight Tour featuring hors dourves at the gallery on Nov 10. Available now at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery and Celebrations by Georges. All proceeds go towards the gallerys education and exhibition programs.
The Walleye
Shannon Lepere
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CityScene
CityScene
Classes are now being held at the Baggage Building Arts Centre LIFE DRAWING with Tom White Adult drop-in classes running Tuesday evenings 7pm-9pm Cost $20 /class materials included DRAWING & PAINTING BASICS with Michelle Kivi Ages 8-12 Saturdays noon-2pm Ages 12-15 Friday evenings 6-8pm Cost $125 /6wks materials included Candle making, Mosaic Tile, Pottery classes, Painting lessons and Lantern Festival Workshops
Poppy Pride
By Bonnie Schiedel
he red Remembrance Day poppy worn on lapels across Canada has a Thunder Bay connection. The story begins with John McCraes poem, In Flanders Fields: an American, Moina Michael, read the poem shortly before the end of the Great War and was inspired to wear a poppy every day in memory of the fallen. In 1920, Anna E. Gurin, a French citizen, visited New York and happened to meet Michael, then a volunteer at the YMCA at Columbia University. Inspired by Michaels stance, she returned to France and began making and selling silk poppies to raise funds for war widows and orphans.
Gurin travelled to both Britain and Canada in 1921 to propose making the poppy a symbol of remembrance for soldiers killed in the Great War, as well as a fundraiser for those affected by the war. Her first Canadian stop: a meeting of the Great War Veterans Association of Canada (a predecessor of the Legion) held at the Prince Arthur Hotel on Cumberland St. At the meeting on July 5, the members decided to adopt the poppy as its Flower of Remembrance. In November 1921, poppies were distributed in Canada for the first time.
n this journey called life, imagine the lessons we can learn from one who has survived and triumphed in the worlds most challenging and gruelling individual competition: singlehanded open ocean sailing. It takes incredible courage, determination, and persistence to race all the way around the globe, spending months alone in the open waterand Derek Hatfield is the only Canadian to ever complete the race twice! Hatfield offers inspiration and motivation in an evening that will relate his sailing journey to lifes journey, through both corporate and family perspectives. The former RCMP officer and world-famous yachtsman offers an inspiring evening for anyone who is drawn to the awesome energy of wind and waves. Hatfields presentation is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be energized and empowered by one of the worlds premiere adventurers. This exclusive dinner event is a fundraiser for environmental projects in the Lake Superior basin, including EcoSuperiors Net Zero demonstration house and Lake Superior Discovery Place. A silent auction and four-course local flavours dinner is included for $75. Limited presentation-only tickets are available for $20. Come out for an evening of great adventure, and help us make a Great Lake Superior!
A Lake Superior Evening featuring Derek Hatfield takes place November 14 in the Embassy Ballroom at the Victoria Inn. Tickets available at EcoSuperior, 562 Red River Road, and at the Victoria Inn on Arthur Street. This is a green event hosted by Lake Superior Remedial Action Plan Office, EcoSuperior, Lake Superior Discovery Place, and Thunder Bay Yacht Club.es, its still okay to come as you are.
Dave Koski
60s D an ce
Cost: $7.00 Beverages & Snacks Get a group of friends together and join us for some great dancing!
Thursday, November 15 7 - 10 pm
D.J. Music Provided By Maverick Music Services
kegsteakhouse.com
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CityScene
Music
Do you know of a perfect place to take a first date? Are you convinced youve found the citys greatest Finn pancake? What is Thunder Bays best kept secret? Have your say about the very best our city has to offer in The Walleyes first ever Best of Thunder Bay Readers Survey!
walleye
Thunder Bays arts & culture alternative
The Best of
THUNDER BAY 2 0 1 2
the
Food
Best Finn pancakes:
Best public art installation: Best art exhibit: Best street art: Best art gallery:
Best Coney dog: Best place to people-watch: Best pizza: Best place to impress a visitor: Best apps: Best view of the Sleeping Giant: Best fries: Best perogies: Best late-night nosh: Best dessert: Best patio: Best way to spend five bucks in Thunder Bay:
The Sheepdogs
Sweet 70s Southern Rock
By Kat Lyzun
Photo by Greg Locke 2009 Copyright
BONUS:
Thunder Bays Best kept secret:
Events
Best fundraising event: Best free event: Best festival/fair: Best kids event:
Darren McChristie
Kim Stockwood
Back to Her Roots, Back to the Water
and on the road to instant fame, a barrage of Juno awards and an international tour circuit beginning with a stint in Australia with rock legend John Fogerty (of CCR) and culminating in US and cross-Canada tours this fall. If youre an original fan, dont worrythe bearded boys are still true to their roots. On the bands website bio, lead singer Ewan Currie says, Our goal is two-fold. We want to make killer albums that people really want to listen to, but we also want to have a really reputable live show. When we come through town we want to be the hottest ticket there. Those two elements are what make a truly great rock and roll band. Really, though, we just want to play to anyone who is willing to give us a shot and who wants to have a good time. The Sheepdogs play with Yukon Blonde December 10 at Roxys/Tonic. Visit thesheepdogs.com for details.
Best Thunder Bay-ism: Best blog: Best Tweeter: Best celebrity: Best comedian: Best sports team: Best athlete (male): Best athlete (female): Best grassroots organization: Best issue to debate:
S
Complete the form below and mail to: 242-1100 Memorial Ave, Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 4A3. or visit thewalleye.ca to fill out the survey online.
haggy Saskatchewan rockers The Sheepdogs are bringing their 70s-style southern rock sound back to Thunder Bay on December 10, rounding out a huge North American tour for the release of their latest album. The Sheepdogs, which dropped September 4, is the bands first full length album since signing with Atlantic Records following their historic appearance as the first unsigned band to grace the cover of Rolling Stone. A seasoned travelling band with three self-produced albums and one EP in their back pocket, The Sheepdogs have stepped it up with their latest album produced by Patrick Carney (of the Black Keys) and Austin Scaggs. Its a masterfully created set of fresh-yet-classic tracks reminiscent of beloved 70s-era, bluesy rock and roll. The past year has been a wild ride for The Sheepdogs, catapulting them from nearly-broke
By Elly Tose
Music
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or most people, the name Kim Stockwood will bring to mind those priceless lyrics from her first major hitYou jerk, you jerk, you are such a jerkor the totally relatable feelings of 12 Years OldI feel like Im 12 years old and my dog just died and my bikes been stolen again. Then again, theres also the self-discovery of Enough Love, or you might think about her role in the highly successful trio Shaye with Damhnait Doyle and Tara MacLean from 2003 to 2009. If youve been paying attention to recent news, however, you will have heard that Stockwood has made a move back to her roots. With 18 years of experience under her belt, Stockwood has returned to Newfoundland to produce a recording full of the sounds and temperament of the east coast. Back to the Water, which also features some of Newfoundlands finest musicians, boasts 11 songs that encompass a wide range of emotions and situations. Theres the lighter side of life portrayed in Squid Jiggin Ground and Feller from Fortune, the thrill of romance in St. Johns Waltz and the longing in Let Me Fish Off Cape St. Marys. Stockwood has also partnered with some new friends on this recording: The Once on Now Im 64, and the Dardanelles on Feller From Fortune. Longtime friend
The Arts
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Answer at least 50 questions and get entered in a draw to win a one of five exclusive Walleye Swag Bags. Deadline to submit your survey is December 5th Grab a copy of the January 2013 issue of The Walleye to find out the results!
Darren McChristie
Damhnait Doyle from Shaye joins her on Ode to Newfoundland, and her father Leslie Stockwood helps out on the finale, Thank God Were Surrounded by Water. Everything came together so well on Back to the Water that Stockwood won the 2012 East Coast Music Award for Roots/Traditional Solo Recording of the Year. Stockwood will be bringing her live show, which includes an opening performance by cellist Kevin Fox, to Thunder Bay on November 24 as part of the Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society concert series. $20 advance tickets are available at Chaltrek, Fireweed, Hoito, and Ostrom Outdoors. For further information visit kimstockwood.com or sleepinggiant.ca.
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Music
Music
Vinyl
By Gord Ellis
Matt Mays
Raw Energy
By Nancy Saunders
ike most people of a certain age, I grew up listening to vinyl records. My first album was one of the classic old K-Tel records. The advertised television ads in the early 1970s screamed out 20 original hits, 20 original stars! while playing little tidbits of each song. I had to have it. So down to Kresges I went, and picked up the record. It had a weird, multi-coloured cover of yellow, orange, and brown swirls, with horribly cut-and-pasted pictures of several artists on the front. When I got home, and pulled the record out of the sleeve, a whole new world of music opened up. This was not radio music, with songs chosen by someone else. This was my music. I dropped the needle again and again on the vinyl, listening to Saturday Nights Alright for Fighting by Elton John, watching the centre of the record spin round. There was something about the smell of record vinyl that really got under my skin. It was a subtle thing, but when you slipped that freshly bought record out of its sleeve, it was the scent of something new and exciting. The whole experience of playing a record was sensual. Laying on the rug, liner sleeve in hand, listening to side one, then flipping the record over
to side two. The crackle and pop of the needle tracking on vinyl became part of the musical experience. The large, vinyl record format also allowed an artist to make a decent, eye catching album cover. There was the Stones Sticky Fingers album, with a zippered fly on the crotch of a virtual Mick Jagger in jeans. The Whos Next album featured all four member of The Who zipping up after having taken a pee on some monolith. Or the plain white jacket of the Beatles brilliant White Album. Some covers were so great that people bought the album just because of it. Vinyl records were made to be seen, and heard, as a whole experience. As well, because of the twosided vinyl album format, a lot of thought was given to the flow of an albumthe first song on side two being of particular importance. If an artist was really on a roll, there were double albums. In the case of the Clash, they pulled a triple album out of the hat with Sandinista. Vinyl albums also fostered the wonderful world known as the record store. These were a big business once upon a time. For audiophiles, stores like Sam the Record Man in Toronto were simply a must-stop, a mecca. You could pour through the record bins, looking for special pressings, European
releases or extended dance mixes. When you found your music, you actually paid for it. Its a concept thats almost completely lost to people born after 1990. The sound of virgin vinylespecially on a good quality turntablewas amazing. Rich and warm. The nature of vinyl also allowed a far more natural representation of what the music actually sounded like when recorded. This is not so true of our largely compressed and digitized music today. Yet when compact discs came on line in the mid 1980s, the writing was on the wall for vinyl. Within a decade, people couldnt give their turntables away. Records were donated to the Salvation Army and sold for a quarter. Sure, there were holdouts; there always are. Yet the onset of the mp3 and iPod really sealed the fate of the vinyl album. It became a curiosity of the past. Despite this nostalgia, Ill admit my vinyl record days are largely over. Like the rest of the world, my personal music is loaded onto a digital player the size of a cigarette lighter. Ive become accustomed to the convenience, and sadly, the sound of digitized music. But in my rec room, behind the bar, sit 300 or so boxed-up vinyl albums waiting to be rediscovered. Perhaps its time.
Darren McChristie
ts been four years since Matt Mays last album, Terminal Romance, and just as long since he and his former band El Torpedo played The Outpost. On October 13, Mays returned to promote his new album, Coyote, showing Thunder Bay fans that he can still rock out. The show opened with Indio, the first song on the album. Its a catchy song, great for a road trip. The whole albums full of great travelling songs, maybe because so many of them give off a transient vibe through their lyrics, varied musical styles, and instruments. Its fitting that the album was recorded in eight different studios across North America. Mays and his five bandmates showcased their wide-ranging musical talent on piano, harmonica, maracas, tambourine, tenor and bass saxophones, performing most of the new album (and in order). They played City of Lakes, an homage to Mays hometown of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, as well as lots of crowd favourites from his days with El Torpedo. Mays introduced some of his El Torpedo band members during one of their hits, On the Hood.
Among the highlights of the night were the catchy single Take it on Faith, the Skainfused Rochambo, the quick, danceable Madre, Padre (Oh my God-re), the twangy countrified Loveless, and the pounding guitar of Aint That the Truth. After taking his time between albums, Matt Mays has re-emerged with excellent new songs that are full of his characteristic raw energy. He put on a great live show, showing new and old fans that this Canadian musician loves writing and performing classic rock music.
Jeff Epp
Craig Cardiff
By Meghan Jewell
n September 21, a crowd gathered around a small dark stage to watch an often-returning artist from Waterloo, OntarioCraig Cardiff, performing at Lakehead Universitys Study. Once again, Cardiff did not disappoint. His performance was intimate, his repartee was humourous, and he engaged the audience with his thought-provoking statements and songs. His music is laid back, keeping his fans engrossed for hours, and in between sets musician Robyn DellUnto entertained the crowd with her incredible voice, funny anecdotes, and charisma. Cardiffs music includes harmonica and guitar, and often he uses a looping machine. But although Cardiffs music is wonderful, what I love the most about his shows is the hilarious banter in between songs. These talks are comical on the surface but have a deep, underlying truth to them all. Cardiff never misses an opportunity to make an intimate connection with his fans. During his concert, the audience is encouraged to write in his Book of Trutha compilation of embarrassing moments, shared love stories, and moments of reality. Its always an adventure to be in the company of Craig Cardiff.
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For this reviewer, Andersens soulful, sometimes heart-wrenching ballads about love, loss, and sacrifice are what set him apart. The orchestra perfectly complemented his powerful vocals, sending them soaring through the Auditorium. Beautiful. Check him out at www.stubbyfingers.ca.
ell, we have officially discovered the latest renewable energy resource: Down With Webster. The bands 90-minute show at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on October 20 was an intensely high energy, non-stop performance no ballads that night, just all of their top hits. Engaging the audience with plenty of interactive songs, Down With Webster had the crowd waving their hands for the entire show, creating their signature W shape with their fingers, and jumping up and down throughout the entire performance. The bands drummer even had the spotlight with a brief drum solo and an amusing drum synthesizer rendition of Gangnam Style that had the audience screaming. And after being called back to the stage by an enthusiastic audience, their three-song encore ended on a high note with their hit Shes Dope. Throughout the show, the band was generous with merchandise, throwing beer cups, t-shirts, and towels to an appreciative audience. The meet and greet session after the show created a line that wound around the lobby and had to be directed out the front doors. Clearly Down With Webster already has many fans in Thunder Bay, and with this energetic performance they likely gained even more.
he Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra opened this season with the blues, sharing the Community Auditorium stage with acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Matt Andersen on October 13. After a warm-up introduction from the orchestra, the amiable blues powerhouse had the crowd going from the start with Lay it on the Line and The Way You Move. Then the lights dimmed, and Andersen showcased his incredible vocals with She Comes Down, a moving, beautiful ode to the travelling musicians girlfriend. Oh, this is my favourite song. It gives me shivers, said my concert companion. Shes not really a blues fan, but she (like the rest of the audience) was completely drawn in by the big mans strong, soulful voice. After hearing She Comes Down and So Gone Now, a song about an ex-girlfriend, its hard to believe that any woman could stay mad at him. Andersens blues career took off in 2002 with the release of his first album, One Size Never Fits. Since then, he has appeared with Randy Bachman, Bo Diddley, Little Feat, and April Wine. In 2011, he won the Maples Blues Awards for Entertainer of the Year and Acoustic Act of the Year. As evidenced by his triple standing ovation and two encores, the man is an impressive blues musician and an extremely talented guitar player. Every song was played with intensity, so much so that he broke a string halfway through Make You Stay. He comes from a small town in New Brunswick, but his raw talent has earned him a global following and regular appearances on the international blues circuit.
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Off theWall
Rock of Ages
- Michelle McChristie Rock of Ages is the 2012 adaptation of the critically acclaimed Broadway musical of the same name. The film is studded with an all-star cast, including country singer Julianne Hough, Tom Cruise, Paul Giamatti, Catherine ZetaJones, Mary J. Blige, Russell Brand, and Alec Baldwin. The story unfolds when a wannabe musician (Hough) arrives on the Sunset Strip to make her way in
REVIEWS
Half-Blood Blues
Esi Edugyan
Nowadays
the music industry. Along the way, she ends up working as an exotic dancer, finds (and loses) love, and encounters Stacee Jaxx (Cruise), a tormented, self-indulgent 80s rock star. The score is packed with iconic 80s tunes and there is more singing than dialogue, so the character development is lacking and even a baboon could follow the simple plot. Actually, its unfair to insult our
primate cousins because there is a baboon in the moviehe plays Jaxxs pet/butler, Hey Man. Cruise said he needed a monkey for his character to be funny, much to the chagrin of animal rights activists. Despite being a box-office bomb, the 80s nostalgia and outrageous characters, like those played by by Cruise and Baldwin, are farcically funny and the film is worth the rental fee.
Although set during World War II, Edugyans fascinating novel is not another doneto-death war commentary. Instead, she ponders the Black experience of Nazi Germany as told through Sidney Griffiths, a bass player, and his drummer friend Chip Jones, two African-Americans playing in a band called the Hot Time Swingers. Comprised of mixed nationalities, the group is joined by Hieronymous Falk, a prodigious AfroGerman trumpeter. With French-African and white German blood flowing through his veins, he is classed as a Rhineland bastarda small population despised by the Nazis due to their threat to Aryan purity. As if this wasnt already enough against Hieronymous, the Nazis have also forced jazz music underground. With this as a backdrop, the story is predominantly about the music, the friendships, betrayals and secrets that work their way to the surface as the tale unfolds. Bouncing between wartime Berlin and Paris, and the 1990s when Sid and Chip are old men, Edugyan shows another, lesser-known side of the war. Half-Blood Blues is lyrical prose, where words and music entwine to exude the sinuous cadences of AfroAmerican patois. As Heironymous, Chip, and Louis Armstrong jam in pre-war Paris, youre right there with them, their horns so naked, so blunt, you feel almost guilty listening to it, like you eavesdropping. -Rosemary Melville
The Sheepdogs
The Sheepdogs
Union
Diana Krall
Rodney Browns new CD, Songs of Fort William, is unlike anything he has released previously. Backed by our Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, and lushly orchestrated by composer Lise Vaugeois, Songs of Fort William merges Browns strength as a songwriter with classical orchestration. This is a concept album, focusing on Thunder Bay history and the role played in the fur trade. Brown writes about individualschiefly William McGillivarywhile capturing the tone of what this vast land of forests and Lake Superior was like two centuries ago. There are 10 tracks here. Two are iconic: The Big Lonely is haunting, stark, vivid, and perfectly suited to a symphonic rendition; and All That Remains, Browns revisitation of the original site of Fort William and his modern reflection on what was created there. Recorded a year ago at our Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, Songs of Fort William has outstanding technical and production values. The TBSO, conducted by Arthur Post, shimmers underneath Browns strong vocals. Like Fort William itself, recreated at Point de Meuron, this is a CD that will stand the test of time.
RODNE Y B ROWN
WITH THE THUNDER BAY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Sheepdogs have put out a truly great album in their new self-titled release, which dropped September 4. From start to finish, their classic 70s southern rock vibe makes you wish you were sitting on a deck with good friends, sunshine, and a cold beer. (Damn you, November!) Produced by Patrick Carney of The Black Keys (you can hear the Keys influence on the albums first single, The Way it Is) and Austin Skaggs, the album transports you back to a great time in rock history. Notable tracks include Feeling Good, It Aint Easy to Go, and How Late, How Long, all of which perpetuate the general groovy feel of the album. This is the Saskatchewan bands fourth full-length album, but the first since skyrocketing to fame in 2011 after winning a contest to grace the cover of Rolling Stonethe first unsigned band in the magazines history to do so. With six years gone since their first album, the Sheepdogs get a bit reflective with the track Is Your Dream Worth Dying For, which lead singer Ewan Currie has said is about working at your art for as long as you can until either something great happens, or you have to give up and get a real job. Thankfully for Sheepdogs fans, it was the former. -Kat Lyzun
Lately, there seems to be a trend in which jazz musicians want to mine the 1920s and 1930s for under-appreciated material. The best-known Canadian example is perhaps Jeff Healey, who along with his Jazz Wizards brought a lot of tunes out of the archives. Diana Krall, in her 11th studio offering Glad Rag Doll, is going to the same well, with mixed results. The track Prairie Lullaby is a perfect example of this: while a polished performance of a perfectly lovely tune, its country, and like with all the best crooners, it becomes hard to tell where her voice actually is. If the album has a strength, its in Kralls selection of lesser-known tunes that havent seen the constant reworking that the rest of the American songbook has. If you are looking for Kralls voice without a string section, and dont mind that she strays a little further into country than you might expect, give the album a listen; its not her usual fare. - DMK
-Michael Sobota
TAPOUT
Hit Machine
The newest release from The Tragically Hip is just that another Hip record. Its not a bad record, and fans will definitely like this albumit is exactly what people have come to expect. The Hip havent changed much over the years, but thats what most fans want. Their music has evolved at a very slow pace, and this could be the secret to outlasting so many other bandsthey arent trying anything radically different, but they arent the same either. Now For Plan A may have heavier guitars and a little bit more distortion, but its still The Hip and, if it were to be that different, it wouldnt be this good. Gord Downie can still belt out a song at full power with his oddly unique vocal style, the band still portrays that same deep emotion, and they can still make a great rock album. -Travis Setala
When it comes to TAPOUT, you either get it or you dont the joke, that isand if you dont get it, they dont get you, so you better get out. These hardcore anthems hit you hard and fast like a cage-fighting maniac. Andy Middaughs hilarious lyrics transform a would-be sausage-fest into impressive satire, while Travis Doggetts earthy and complex guitar style come straight from the beer gut and will give you a serious case of cauliflower ear. Jimmy Laukka holds the entire bloodbath together and his talented bass work grants the album depth and head-banging power that will destroy the parts of your brain that hate fun. Supporting this mixed musical artistry are the ground and pound drum solos from Josh Hogan that will make your jaw dropperfect for a fishhook! This is hardcore hilarity at its finest. Stream the album at tapoutband.bandcamp.com. -Kaitlin Khubyar
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Architecture Food
he Thunder Bay Community Auditorium (TBCA), home of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, is a 1500-seat multipurpose performing arts centre. The venue opened its doors in 1985 and has since hosted thousands of events, including performances by Joan Baez, Randy Travis, Gordon Lightfoot, B.B. King, Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Cosby, Bob Hope, and the Moscow Philharmonic. The Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Inc. developed the project, which was designed by the Associated Architects of Thunder Bay, a consortium of local architectural firms Graham Bacon & Welter, Fraser & Browne, Ranta & Tett, and Jean Paul St. Jacques. Artec Consultants Inc. (formerly Russell Johnson Associates) of New York was commissioned as theatre consultant and acoustician, while the construction contractor was Ball Brothers Ltd. of Kitchener. The tri-level auditorium seating is comprised of a raked (sloped) orchestra (main floor), a mezzanine (middle level) and a balcony (upper level); all three levels have side wall boxes or loge seats. The mezzanine and balcony lobbies are open to the main lobby below. The TBCA maintains state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and theatre systems equipment and has a nationwide reputation for its excellent acoustics. The chamber meets the stringent demands of symphony acoustics, while having the versatility to adjust for different performance needs.
The TBCA has many features that maximize the facilitys versatility, including an acoustic canopy that can be raised and lowered to change the quality of reflected sound, and two hydraulic orchestra pit lifts that may be used to extend the stage into the audience chamber, lowered to accommodate additional seats, or dropped down to create a dance pit. As well, it has fourteen large, movable, vertical reflective panels that may be placed behind the performers to create an orchestra shell that alters the rooms acoustics, and acoustic draperies covering the inner walls that can be raised and lowered to modify the reverberation of the room. In March of 2012 the TBCA was nominated for a National Award at the Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Awards. It was one of eight nominees from across Canada, in the under 1500-seat capacity category for small performing arts centres. The combination of the facilitys architectural features, superb acoustics, and warm, intimate feel has given the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium a reputation as one of the finest concert halls in North America. Lee-Ann Chevrette 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 citys heritage resources, visit thunderbay.ca/Living/culture_and_heritage.
Dave Koski
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Health
Health
f you are like most Northwestern Ontarians, you wish fall could last for three months instead of what seems to be three weeks. The vibrant colours mixed with brisk air is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. However, although the weather seems to abandon us too soon, the upside is we are left with an array of food ideas from our fall harvest. To me, fall is the greatest time of year for food. Just go to the Thunder Bay Country Market on a Saturday and youll see what I mean: endless amounts of zucchini, squash, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and garlic. With all of this produce, combined with the many grass-fed or naturally raised animal farms we have, there is no shortage of nutritional and delectable options. Unfortunately, we only have about a 90 day growing season in Thunder Bay. This means that if we are looking to eat locally, we need to think in terms of seasons. Obviously, if we all preserved our food the way some of our great grandparents did, it would allow us to eat what we grow throughout the year. Unfortunately, this is not the reality for most of us and thus, we must make use of fall and winter produce to get us by.
So, get creative, go online, and check out all the great recipes for squash, pumpkin, potatoes, onions, and garlic that can be created quickly and nutritiously. Squash alone, with its many varieties, can keep things exciting in the kitchen while providing a nutritious alternative to many dishes. Paul Hemsworth owns Hemsworth Strength & Wellness. You can contact him at 777-1717 or paul.hemsworth83@ gmail.com. For more info, go to hemsworthstrength.com.
New from Borealis Press:
Michelle McChristie
T
/fortwilliamhistoricalpark @FWHPTweets
Slower traffic. Connections between streets, trails, sidewalks and walkways. Lets build a city that makes walking easy, safe and enjoyable.
he cool, rainy days weve had lately are enough to keep all of us wishing we could stay inside under a cozy quilt. The slide from fall into winter not only dampens the air but for some of us it dampens our spirits too. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression that often sets in as the days get colder and darker. Although the causes of SAD are unknown, the most popular theory links the disorder to the lack of sunlight causing a drop in melatonin and serotonin. These are the hormones responsible for regulating mood and sleep. SAD sufferers typically experience fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, food cravings, and problems with sleep. They may feel unhappy, isolate themselves, and lose interest in activities they normally enjoy. If SAD symptoms get severe, a physician may prescribe medication. However, there are also some things you can do on your own that may help. The combination of light and exercise is one of the most effective treatments for SAD, so walking outdoors is the most recommended form of exercise for SAD. The repetitious movement works to increase levels of serotonin and helps to relieve stress and anxiety. Walking also stimulates the brain to release other hormones called endorphins, which help produce a sense of well-being. Walking is easy, it doesnt cost much and its a great way to not only get exercise, but get closer to nature.
A wAlkAble city hAs more thAn sidewAlks. A walkable community has: Shops and services built close to where people live. Places to meet. More people walking is good for business and the safety of our neighbourhoods. Streets with trees, benches, good lighting, public art and bike racks.
School and Public Programs Overnight Programs FALL 2012 For Details Call Private Parties 807.473.2344 Rentals
Paid for by the Government of Ontario
Take a walk, Rate our Streets and have a chance to win an iPod Nano! For more information, visit TBDHU.COM
By Bill MacDonald
$18.95
Available at Fireweed, Chapters, L.U. Bookstore & Valhalla Artisans Northwest Craft Market
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Open Noon to 6 PM everyday & until 8 pm Thursdays from November 1st to December 24th. Located at 411 Markland Street which is one block south of the Oliver Rd/High St intersection & runs between High St & Winnipeg Ave. Look for the big yellow sign out front on the boulevard, you cant miss it! Call 345-4341, like us on Facebook or visit us at www.beehappycandles.com. Celebrating our 10th year! Clip this coupon & save 10 % on regularly priced products.
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LIVINGGREEN
LIVINGGREEN
Silent Victims
By Deanna Ford
An oil storage tank at a refinery that was attacked by coalition aircraft during Operation Desert Storm, Kuwait (1991).
Lars on Homes
Soundproofing
Story and Photos by Larry Hogard
Remembrance Day is the time to remember and honour people who made the supreme sacrifice in battle, but we dont hear much about the environmental impacts of war. What are some of the lasting effects of the conflicts around the world?
The suffering and sacrifices caused by wars around the world are certainly not restricted to humans. Our disagreements and subsequent battles also take a heavy toll on the land. Bombs dont just blow up buildings, but also forests, fields, and streams. The site of the Battle of Vimy Ridge is one example. To visit it now is to see the land as it was changed nearly 100 years ago: while tunnels run under ground, trenchlines and shell craters mark the site of one of Canadas greatest battles. In other conflicts, toxic chemicals were deployed with devastating effectiveness. During the Vietnam War, the herbicide Agent Orange was used to remove the jungle that hid soldiers. It was very effective for the war effort, but to the land it was deadly. It killed all types of vegetation, including the roots, leaving bushes and trees as skeletons. With no live plants to hold it, the topsoil suffered serious run-off during the monsoon rains. Forests could not naturally regenerate because there were not enough trees left to produce and shelter seedlings. Reforestation efforts continue more than half a century later,
but soils contaminated with deadly dioxin and invasive species of grasses remain today. The loss of jungle cover also put many bird and animal species on the endangered list for the region. In the more recent Gulf Wars, the fragile desert ecosystem suffered in many ways. Heavy vehicles damaged the soil, and the scorched earth strategy designed to deprive the enemy of the resources left behind caused irreparable harm and habitat loss. Six million barrels of oil were spilled into the Gulf, and approximately 600 oil wells were set on fire, releasing huge plumes of toxic smoke and causing far-reaching impacts on the Earths atmosphere. The toll on wildlife, water, and land is seldom mentioned during times of remembrance. Battlefields were once homes for birds and animals. On this Remembrance Day, along with thoughts of our fallen soldiers, perhaps a silent moment of acknowledgement is in order for the ecosystems that have endured our fighting. By Deanna Ford CD1, EcoSuperior Customer Service Coordinator (and a retired military trumpeter)
ouses built today are more soundproof than older homes they have thicker walls, insulation, and multi-glazed windows that together help reduce outdoor noises. But if you like to maximize the audio on your stereo or theatre system, or have a musician living under your roof, you might want to modify your interior walls and floors to achieve peace and quiet. As teenagers, my friends and I started jamming with electric instruments and drums in my parents basement. To muffle our racket, my dad and I nailed a large rug to the basement ceiling. Because sound vibration travels the path of least resistance through air and solid materials, the carpet did little to reduce the noise travelling upstairs, and even less for the rooms decor. Plus, low frequency noise, such as drums and bass in a band or a thumping sub-woofer, is the most difficult sound to stopas anyone living near a busy street will know. There are four approaches to soundproofing. The first strategy is to add material that can absorb sound, such as fibreglass or cellulose insulation to wall and floor cavities, and vinyl or cork flooring and wall cover. The second approach is to add mass to the wall or floor with a heavy, dense material, such as concrete, sand, or multiple layers of drywall. The third is to create an air space between framing and finishing materials to control vibration, known as decoupling. The fourth is to seal gaps and cracks with heavy rubber gaskets and acoustical sealant, including holes for plumbing and electrical, and cracks in window and door framing to reduce sound transmission. Depending on whether you own your home or rent, some approaches will offer a better bang for your buck. For example, filling voids in walls and floor space with fibreglass insulation and sealing gaps and cracks is reasonably inexpensive, and you might even be able to talk your landlord into doing the work. Ultimately, the most important things to soundproof are your ears. Steady exposure to loud noises that exceed 85 decibels can cause hearing damage, and a loud stereo or live music can extend way beyond this range. As a musician who played in loud bands throughout my teens and 20s, I started to wear ear plugs only after noticing some hearing loss. But, while ear plugs and muffs are a low-cost option and highly recommended for budding musicians jamming in basements, they are not entirely practical for the parents living upstairs. If you dont want to make your resident rock star turn down the volume or move out to the garage, make the investment to soundproof your home. Larry Hogard is a Certified Home Inspector and Energy Advisor with Superior Inspections Inc. He can be contacted at larry@superiorinspections.ca.
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NovemberEventsGuide
November 1, 6 pm November 3, Noon 4 pm November 8 10, 14 17 November 10 11 November 15 18 November 22 December 8
Victoria Inn This exciting fundraising event celebrates hope and the beauty of being a woman. Proceeds from the event will go to fund life-saving womens cancer research (breast, uterine, cervical and ovarian). There will be dinner, dancing, entertainment, and lots of fabulous prizes to be won. Tickets are available at the Victoria Inn and Canadian Cancer Society, and are $75 each or $700 for a table of 10. cancer.ca November 2
Lend Me a Tenor
Valhalla Inn A fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity that involves a team challenge to build the best gingerbread house while staying on the building inspectors good side. habitattbay.com November 3, 12:30 4 pm
Paramount Theatre Cambrian Players open their season with Ken Ludwigs Tony awardwinning comedy. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors, and are available at Fireweed, Steepers, and at the door. cambrianplayers.ca November 9
Various Locations This holiday-themed self-guided tour of elegantly embellished Thunder Bay homes is wildly successful every year. All proceeds from this event go toward the gallerys exhibition and education programs. theag.ca November 10 11
North House Folk School, Grand Marais A multi-day educational event that celebrates the crafts, customs, landscape, history, and stories of winter travel and traditional ways of life in the north. northhouse.org November 17, 6:30 9:30 pm
Magnus Theatre The greatest Hollywood blockbuster never made reduces 187 of the greatest movies ever made into an under two-hour evening of uproarious entertainment. magnus.on.ca November 24, 10am 4pm
Music Events
November 1
November 6
November 10
November 17
November 25
Do or Dive
Waverley Library Auditorium and the Airlane Hotel Tiberio Room The traveling program of the popular reading series returns to Thunder Bay with a question and answer session at 3 pm at the Waverley Library with author Madeleine Thien, and a reading at 7 pm at the Airlane Tiberio Room with Madeleine Thien, Rawi Hage, and Helen Humphreys. litontour.com November 2
Thunder Bay Art Gallery Participants will bring something to silk screen, such as a t-shirt or pillowcase. Cost is $30 for gallery members, $35 for non-members. theag.ca
November 3, 5 pm
A Wine Affair
Canada Games Complex Brave local bosses and community celebrities will jump from the towers at the Canada Games Complex in this joint fundraising event put on by the Thunder Bay Diving Club and PRO Kids. Get your workplace involved by nominating a participant or become a sponsor for the event. ) 625-3212 November 9, 7 pm
Victoria Inn Join us for an inspiring day of engaging, learning and sharing of best-in-class fundraising put on by the Lakehead Fundraising Association (LFA). Cost is $75 for LFA members, $90 for non-members. Half day cost is $60 members and non-members. lakeheadfundraising.ca November 2, 7 pm
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium The fall classic gala event returns for its 13th year as Thunder Bay's premier wine tasting and auction. Enjoy amazing food and wine from around the world, and bid on our exquisite silent and live auction items, all in support of your Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. tbca.com November 3, 4, 10, 11
Baggage Building Arts Centre, Prince Arthur Landing Lakehead Visual Arts invites you to their Christmas Art Exhibit and Sale. The sale will take place on the main floor and mezzanine of the Baggage Building Arts Centre, and will be open from noon 8 pm on Saturday and noon 6 pm on Sunday. visualarts.lakeheadu.ca November 10, 6 pm
Holiday Marketplace
Streaky Beats
November 2
Victoria Inn Join Chef David Adjey, Food Network Star of Restaurant Makeover and The Opener, for a fun and tasty evening as Thunder Bay restaurants compete by creating The Perfect Bite to win the title of Top Chef Thunder Bay. keynoteevents.ca November 17
St. John Ambulance The holidays are upon us, and St. John Ambulance will once again be hosting the Holiday Marketplace for guests to shop local vendors and get a head start on their holiday shopping, with a portion of the proceeds donated to St. John Ambulance's Community Services Programs. stephanie.bateman@on.sja.ca November 24
WIGGINSTOCK (Night 1) with Zack and the Morrises, Jordana Divinorum, Android 16, Red Light Incident, and Keenan Wark
Black Pirates Pub $7 All Ages 7:30 pm
WIGGINSTOCK (Night 4) with The Auditor General, Webster Death and Grimmace the Butler, Rival, and A Black Tie Affair
Black Pirates Pub $5 19+ 10 pm
Flamenco Caravan
DJ Dustbuster
The Foundry $5 19+ 10 pm
Big Mama D
Beaux Daddys No Cover All Ages
Econline Crush , Hello Beautiful, Dope Stars Inc, and The Rabid Whole
Crocks $15 19+ 8 pm
Mackenzie Heights EP Release Party with Zack and the Morrises, Palehock, Rappers DNA, and Andrew Mitchell Music
CLE Coliseum See superstars of wrestling including Tommy Dreamer, Carllito, Gangrel, and Hall of Fame wrestler Tito Santana. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, and go on sale online October 3. diyobo.com November 9, 8 pm
Grand Marais Playhouse Its the 1950s, hula-hoops are in high demand, and so is Little Red Riding Hood! This adventure is guaranteed to end in happily-ever-after laughter for audiences and performers of all ages. arrowheadcenterforthearts.org November 6 7
Valhalla Inn This elegant evening includes a symposium, gourmet dinner, live auction, and live music. The Health Sciences Ball is the social event of the season, with all proceeds supporting the Northern Cardiac Fund. Semiformal or formal attire please. Tickets are $125 each at tables of 10. ) 345-4673 November 10, 8 pm
CLE Coliseum A party in support of the Thunder Bay Disaster Relief Fund, with music, dancing, prizes, and fun. Tickets are $20 and are available at all Thunder Bay Fire Stations, through the DRC, and at the Disaster Relief Office. thunderbay.ca/flood November 17 18
Beirut Night
Kabab Village Come and enjoy the best Arabic food in Thunder Bay while watching an authentic bellydance performance by Dahab from the World Dance Centre. ) 622-9495 November 27, 1 4 pm
Jim Cuddy
Robin Ranger
Black Pirates Pub $8 or $5 with non-perishable food item All Ages 7:30 pm
Definitely Superior Art Gallery Experience a unique book launch for Nowadays, a locally created zombie graphic novel, with creators Kurt Martell and Christopher Merkley in attendance. Signed copies of the book will be for sale. Also featuring art, video works, wandering zombies, music performance by Memory Loss (members of Ocean City Defender), zombie make-up, human piata zombie attack, and more! Dress up as the undead if you wish and join the zombie madness! definitelysuperior.com November 3, 10 am 3 pm
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium ABBAmania is an all-Canadian cast that is the largest production of ABBA in the world with a fantastic look, vocals, and sound. And Canadas Night Fever will take you back to the sounds and the look of one of the greatest pop bands in history, The Bee Gees. Tickets are $35. tbca.com November 9, 8:30 pm
Valhalla Inn The conference will have a great lineup of keynote speakers and concurrent sessions. Plan to attend the Conference Night Out featuring Mark Crocker, Vocal Illusionist & Ventriloquist, and place bids at the Silent Auction to raise money for the Regional Food Distribution Association. healthandsafetyontario.ca November 8, 5:30 pm
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium With moves that will shake you and a style so close to the King, and a sense of humor very much like Elvis's own, James Burton told Daylin, "Elvis would be proud of your representation of him. Tickets are $36. tbca.com
November 14
Valhalla Inn Join Artisans Northwest for their 37th Annual Christmas Show and Sale, featuring art and fine crafts from local artists and artisans. Admission is free. artisansnorthwest.ca
Victorian Tea
Thunder Bay Museum Join the museum's for their annual Victorian Tea. Baked goods will be available for sale. Cost is $5 per person. ) 623-0801 November 27, 7 pm
WIGGINSTOCK (Night 2) with Married Singlemen, Dont You(,) Mean People?, Hey You Millionaires, and Mary Walker and Mike Butt
Black Pirates Pub $5 19+ 10 pm The Foundry $5 19+ 10 pm
Faber Drive, Victoria Duffield, and Fighting For Ithaca with MacKenzie Heights
Crocks $20 All Ages 7 pm November 22
Philthy Fam Vol 5 with The Funky Bunch, Northphace, Jaide, CN5 with Beatfarm, Cheppenko, Iberad, Big D, Dystrakted, and GDubz
Crocks $5 19+ 9 pm November 30
Matthew de Zoete
Author Reading
Victoria Inn A fundraising event for Danny Dawson Inc., including performances by Mark Tannahill, Eddy Mac Jerry, and Pull My Finger. Tickets are $10 and available at the Westfort Prosvita, UPS, and ABC Custom Embroidery. workingthelegacy.com November 10, 10 am 3 pm
Valhalla Inn Local potters sell their creations at their 34th annual Christmas sale. Receive one door prize ticket with every purchase. tbpottersguild.jimdo.com November 19, 6 7:30 pm
Mary J.L. Black Library Join local writers Jacqueline DAcre and Jim Foulds, as well as Duluth mystery writer Mark Munger, as they read from recent works. Admission is free. nowwwriters.org November 30 December 1
Peace
Corb Lund
North McIntyre Recreation Centre Come on out for all your holiday shopping! Homemade baking, jams, cupcakes, perogies, jewellery, sewing, knitting, candles, and much more. Concession will be open as well. ) 767-1400
Valhalla Inn Easter Seals Ontario is now in its 90th year of helping children and youth with physical disabilities. Show your support at the 10th Annual Easter Seals Roast, where Michael Power and Trevor Mikus will battle it out in our Roasting Ring to be named Champion of the Roast. Tickets are $150. * thunderbay1@easterseals.org
Mompreneurs Expo
North Neebing Community Centre Come out and see what some moms are up to and what new and exciting products and services are available to men, women, and children. Admission is free and door prizes and draws are available. ) 474-0909
Victoria Inn Embassy Ballroom An exclusive dinner fundraiser for environmental projects in the Lake Superior basin, featuring a presentation by two-time singlehanded open ocean sailing champion Derek Hatfield. Auction and four-course local flavours dinner included for $75. Tickets available at EcoSuperior. ecosuperior.org November 15, 7:30 pm
St. Pauls Anglican Church Radiant Yoga with Colleen is offering a free yoga class in support of the Underground Gym in exchange for a kid-friendly non-perishable good or donation. No experience necessary. radiantyogawithcolleen.com
November 19, 7 pm
Automan.ca
Mood Indigo
Writing Workshop
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium In this film from local filmmaker/ producer Casey Walker, a mild mannered HR manager infected by a virus during his bachelor party attempts to fulfill his overwhelming desire for brains and avoid the obsessed zombie hunter hot on his trail. Tickets are $10. tbca.com
Waverley Library Auditorium Join the Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop for a free public workshop. nowwwriters.org
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Join the Fort William Male Choir for this traditional early taste of Christmas on the first weekend of December, now in its 84th year. Tickets are just $30 each, and a portion of this years proceeds will once again be donated to the Prostate Cancer Canada Network Thunder Bay. fwmc.ca
WIGGINSTOCK (Night 3) with Black Light Party, Fabulous Dave, GDubz, Tony Dekker vs Black Sheep
Black Pirates Pub $5 19+ 10 pm
Romi Mayes
Heather Dale
Southern Comfort
Big Mama D
Kris Labelle
Audio/Rocketry
The Apollo $TBA 19+ 9 pm
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The Walleye
The Walleye
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theWall
Darren McChristie
Valhalla
Music in Schools
Core Curriculum or Frivolity?
By Michelle McChristie
hen I was in elementary school, it seemed that every school had a grade eight band. Recalling the performances at the Lakehead Music Festival, some were pretty good, while others lacked finesse, to put it mildly. Kids were allowed to choose an instrument and either buy one (if your parents were optimists), rent one for the year or, in a few cases, borrow one from the school. This program continued through high school and my school even offered a strings program. The student talent that was developed through the band and the orchestra was amazing, even humbling, for a fledgling flutist like me. As a student, I never thought about the value of those music programsthe talent and dedication of the teachers, and the opportunities given to students who might otherwise have never learned to play an instrument. And it never occurred to me that, someday, these programs might dwindle and even disappear at some schools. But according to the Coalition for Music Education, a group that represents more than 20 music education organizations in Canada, music programs are an undervalued component of the public education system in many areas of our country, particularly in Ontario. The results from their 2010 survey on the state of music education found that 58 percent of teachers delivering music programs in Ontario elementary schools have no music background or training. Ingrid White, executive director of the Coalition, says there seems to be a very large gap in what the Ontario government says it is committing to and what is actually happening on the ground. As for the country, she says that, the results show that funds simply arent keeping up with the demand for music programs. In terms of what is working, the survey found that the strongest music education programs have a supportive principal and parents, a strong specialist teacher, student interest (and time), appropriate instruments and space, solid instructional materials, appropriate funding, support from school boards and provincial education departments, as well as a broader community that values music. No surprises there. A plethora of research has concluded that students who participate in instrumental music programs score significantly higher in academic tests than their non-musical peers, and that musical training during childhood has a significant influence on brain growth (hence the Baby Mozart trend). But, in times of austerity budgets, where the demands on tax dollars outstrip the supply, music programs can seem frivolous. But, they are not. Our kids are worth the investment and we all have a collective duty to understand and advocate for the continuation, if not, enhancement of school music programs. And, to the teachers, principals, administrators, trustees, parents, students, and politicians of the past and present who support music education, thank you for working so hard to ensure that music echoes in the hallways of our schools.
344-7566
The Walleye
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