DULUTH.com March/April 2018

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

MUSICIANS LOYAL TO THEIR BELOVED FAVORITE INSTRUMENTS

PG. 15

MARCH I

GROUP PUBLISHER

Neal Ronquist

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Ali Comnick Dee Munson

ali@duluth.com dee@thewomantoday.com

218.428.2929 218-940-8434

MULTI-MEDIA PRODUCER

vMichelle Truax

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Peggy Day

PHOTOGRAPHY

Clint Austin

Mike Busche

Bob King

Dustin Tessier

CONTRIBUTORS

Tony Bennett

Andrea Busche

Teri Cadeau

Kathleen Murphy

Alison Stucke

Volume 4, Issue 2 MARCH – APRIL 2018 DULUTH.com is published bi-monthly by the Duluth News Tribune

DULUTH.com

424 West First Street, Duluth, MN 55802

Please send comments and story ideas to the editor at editor@duluthmagazines.com and include your name, city of residence and phone number.

All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

©2018 Forum Communications Company

COVER Dustin

AT THE SHORE

Tessier and his 2004 Gibson Les Paul.

Photo courtesy of Dustin Tessier.

February 13, 2018. Duluth.com traveled from 19th Avenue East to Brighton Beach in the second installment of At the Shore, a new video series documenting the conditions along Lake Superior throughout the seasons. MICHELLE TRUAX / DULUTH.COM

By Kathleen Murphy

DULUTH RELICS

A BUS TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

It seemed like an odd thing to sell, even for an online rummage sale site. The title read “Oak Framed Duluth Transit Authority System Map.” Curious, I checked out the ad. Someone wanted $15 for an old bus route map. I scoffed and continued browsing.

Yet the next day, I found myself handing over $15 while the map’s former owners told me what they knew about it. The map originally hung in the lobby of the old Duluth Water & Gas payment office. When the office moved to Garfield Avenue, the couple acquired the map, and it had hung in their basement ever since. It was now time for them to redecorate, so the map was mine.

Downtown Duluth, hand-drawn in about 1984-85

Once I had my new treasure home, I carefully removed it from the frame to get a better look. I discovered it had been trimmed to fit the frame, and with it, any reference to a year or artist. It became a puzzle for me to solve, images from the past jumping out to help settle on a date: Marshall High School is labeled Cathedral (renamed in 1987), and the Elliot Meat Packing Company in Lincoln Park still looks to be in operation (closed in 1984). Both Grandma’s Restaurant (opened in 1976) and the Marine Museum (built in 1974, now named the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center) are

in place.

The most obvious clue is the presence of both the Richard I. Bong Bridge and the rickety old Arrowhead Bridge just upstream, marked on the map as closed. The Arrowhead Bridge closed to traffic the same day the Bong opened in October of 1984, its center span dismantled by March 1985. Which means the map — which shows a complete, but closed bridge — probably was drawn in late 1984 or early 1985.

continued on page 6

Wheeler Field, Enger Memorial Tower and more are among landmarks included on this old DTA route map.

continued from page 5

Heath Hickok, director of marketing of the Duluth Transit Authority, agreed. “Another clue is the DTA began its Port Town Trolley service in 1984, and it’s advertised on the back of the map,” he said. He said he hasn’t seen this map before, but recognized the style as one from a bygone era. Route maps created during this time often were hand-drawn, so it was common to fill in the empty spaces with drawings of landmarks, such as this map’s addition of Enger Tower, Spirit Mountain and Hawk Ridge.

“Today, our maps tend to focus more on functionality and are created directly from Geographic Information System software,” Hickok said. He layed out the DTA’s current route map for comparison, bright and bold — eye-catching, even — but generally devoid of landmarks. “The simplicity makes it easier for a person to plan their correct bus route,” he said. We agreed the modern version is much easier to read, even if it’s missing some of the charm and whimsy of the 1980s era map.

We admired some of the lost landmarks on the map, then marveled at how little has changed. The route list on the back of the old map claims 22 routes, similar to today’s 24. Though the number of routes hasn’t changed much, many have grown and evolved to meet Duluth’s changing needs. The DTA just added five new routes, for example, servicing areas not even shown on the 1980s map, such as the new Route 20, which runs from downtown to the airport, stopping at United Healthcare on Rice Lake Road along the way.

“I look at this old map,” Hickok said, “and I see a snapshot of Duluth from 30 years ago. It makes me hope that 30 years from now, someone will discover today’s route map and find it holds just as many memories.”

Kathleen Murphy is a Duluth freelance writer who enjoys a good sale and anything Duluth.

Morgan Park Junior High School is shown on the western side of town.

Details such as Hartley Field and Congdon Park are drawn in the spaces between bus routes.

The Arrowhead Bridge appears on the map but is marked as “closed.”

PAPER CRANES FOR PEACE

ALTRUSA SERVICE GROUP HELPS THE HILLS CLIENTS CREATE POSITIVE IMAGE

By Alison Stucke

Young clients at The Hills Youth and Family Services completed a reading and art project focusing on peace last fall. As a result, the facility’s cafeteria was decorated with 1,300 paper cranes symbolizing peace, and a mural displaying the word “peace” in more than 40 languages from around the world.

The Hills offers day treatment, community programs available to youths in the local area, as well as residential services to youths from throughout Minnesota. Their program helps adolescent boys and girls through a philosophy of youth empowerment.

READING THE BOOK

Every young person in the residential program read the book “Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes” as a first step in this project. Funding came in part from Altrusa International Club of Duluth, a service organization with 38 women as members. The club helped every step of the way to make the project happen. Money also was raised by The Hills clients who wrapped gifts at Barnes & Noble to purchase a copy of the book for each client.

“It is the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young Japanese girl from Hiroshima who died of leukemia at the age of 12, 10 years after

the atom bomb dropping there,” explained Mary Cowen, who served as executive assistant and volunteer program manager at The Hills. “After she got sick, she began an attempt to fold 1,000 paper cranes in order to make a wish that she would be well. Sadako dies of leukemia, but her classmates come together to raise money to build a statue in her honor with the inscription, ‘This is our cry, this is our prayer; peace in the world,’ and the origami crane became a symbol of peace.”

The book was selected based on the recommendation of The Hills’ Chaplain Terese Tomenek.

“Every week in chapel, we begin by setting an altar with symbols of many different faith traditions: a Bible, a Quran, candles and more,” Terese said. “A young man had created a beautiful origami crane for the altar. I thought of how we could expand on that symbol of grace and peace. I hoped by reading it together, we

could foster a feeling of hope and a sense of community, much as in the book.”

“This book led to meaningful conversations about forgiveness, peace, hope and courage,” Mary said.

CREATING THE ART

The boys and girls made more than 1,000 paper cranes to hang as mobiles in the cafeteria of their residence.

“Students were very excited to make paper cranes after reading the book,” Mary said. “We hung them all from the ceiling in our cafeteria. The cafeteria is a place where all of the groups spend time, so everyone will be able to admire their collective effort.”

The colorful cranes hang above diners, reminding them daily of peace, hope and caring.

continued on page 10

continued from page 9

To end the project, artist Clare Cooley and her son, Bodhi, helped the youths stencil in gold paint a large paper mural with the word “peace” in 40 languages from around the world, as well as images of cranes, feathers. This mural also now hangs in their dining hall.

“With the help of many volunteers, especially Claire Cooley and her son, Bodhi, we transformed the cafeteria at The Hills into a glorious place of bright color and the promise of hope with a mural and 1,300 paper cranes,” Mary said.

ALTRUSA’S WORK AT THE HILLS

Altrusa — whose mission is to serve and support local needs, especially those related to literacy — is very excited about their partnership with The Hills in this fabulous reading and art project. But it’s not the club’s first reading project there. For the past several years, Altrusa has purchased a book and participated in discussions for an annual reading club for girls at The Hills. The crane reading project involved both girls and boys.

“I’ve been involved with several book clubs and know through personal experience how reading and sharing ideas have enriched my life,” said Barbara Fischer, a member of Altrusa and chairwoman of the project. “I became aware of Woodland Hills through my husband’s involvement there as a volunteer, and I thought this may be a good avenue to encourage young women to read. I believe that Altrusa has accomplished that and more, and our members have been positive female role models.”

Mary Bowen of The Hills agreed that Altrusa’s work there has been valuable.

“We at Woodland Hills have been inspired by the great conversations that have come out of our girls groups’ book clubs, sponsored annually by Altrusa, to incorporate volunteer-led book clubs into boys groups as well,” Mary said. “I feel so blessed to have been able to be a part of the great work that Woodland Hills does and the amazing generosity and support from the Altrusa Club of Duluth — you are truly an amazing group of women!”

Alison Stucke is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to Duluth.com.

Q A ADAM SWANSON

IMAGINE A BETTER FUTURE

Q: Tell me about your new art show.

A: This show focuses on threatened animals, the natural environment and robots. I am interested in painting about animals, adaptability and the things we can do to make our world a better place for future generations of life.

Q: Why do call the human presence “fragile”?

A: In the grand scheme of things, humans have not been around for that long, and at our current rate of consumption, our population levels are unsustainable. I think our push and pull with the natural environment can provide valuable lessons and understanding how to manage our relationship with the systems of the Earth (and universe). It’s key to our survival.

Q: Talk about the relationship between art and science.

A: Earth-orbiting satellites and other technologies have enabled us to see the big picture, collecting many different types of information about our planet and its climate. This body of data, collected over many years, reveals the signals of a changing climate. In my local community of northern

Minnesota, researchers spend lives learning to collect and process data. Expressing these findings to groups outside of their peers has often come secondary. Creating artwork exploring these processes is one way to draw outsiders into the complex theories built upon years of research and data collection.

This type of research inspires me. I am the kind of artist who asks questions and processes information. My work as a painter doesn’t often result in any answers to complicated questions but it highlights my ideas, the processing of my thoughts and feelings.

Science is a method designed to process ideas. I believe artwork can be a strong voice for introspection and inspire creative solutions for positive change.

Q: What inspires your painting?

A: I am inspired by humans and the natural world. I am inspired by my travels and time working in Antarctica. I am inspired by people who do great things. My wife inspires me to keep following my dreams, and my children inspire me to work harder.

PHOTO BY KATE KUCINSKI Adam Swanson

Q: Where can people view and purchase your art?

A: Currently, I have a show of 40 paintings at Zeitgeist Arts Café and a show of 20 paintings at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minn., both up through April. I show permanently at Lizzard’s Gallery, Siiviis Gallery and Lakeside Gallery in Duluth. Sivertson Gallery in Grand Marais, Minn. Art Resources Gallery in Minneapolis and Edina, Minn. Kelley Gallery in Woodbury, Minn., and Hudson, Wis. Mason Fine Art in Atlanta.

Q: What training have you had for painting?

A: I received my BFA from the University of Minnesota Duluth. I have also studied painting and printmaking at the University of Tasmania and taken some coursework in France. The past six years, I have been working Monday to Friday, 8-5 p.m. in my studio, taking workshops and learning from others.

Q: Are you interested in teaching painting? Do you do art activities with your children?

A: Yes, I enjoy teaching. I teach a few classes at the Duluth Art Institute each year. My two boys and I make art together all the time. My studio is usually the first place Jasper comes when he gets off the bus. Oliver is younger, not in school and spends a lot of time in here during the day, drawing, painting and gluing things together.

Q: Tell me something you like about Duluth.

A: I love the way Duluth has embraced its shoreline with Lake Superior. I love the trails, rivers and how easy it is to find an active little piece of wildness. I love the clean water.

continued on page 14

My work as a painter doesn’t often result in any answers to complicated questions but it highlights my ideas, the processing of my thoughts and feelings.

“Blameless Blue” by Adam Swanson

“Restless” by Adam Swanson

continued from page 13

Q: What hobbies do you enjoy?

A: I like to travel and help my wife take care of our goats and chickens. I like to ride my bike and cross-country ski.

Q: What are you reading right now?

A: “Cat’s Eye” by Margaret Atwood

Q: Your artist statement references “where we came from” and “who we are.” What is your answer to those questions?

A: I don’t have answers to these questions. My work is the product of my thoughts about these questions.

Generally, I know my recent heritage is from northern Europe. Looking back further, I know I also evolved from human-like apes. Beyond this, the seas, beyond this, the stars. Where does my timeline end and begin? I do not know. “Who I am” and how this relates to “who we are” is something I like to think about every day.

— DULUTH.COM

ART SHOW

WHAT: for “Art & Science”

A collection of new works by Adam Swanson.

WHEN: Through April 25

WHERE: Zeitgeist Arts Cafe Mezzanine, 222 E. Superior St. Downtown Duluth

HOW MUCH: FREE All are welcome.

“Remind” by Adam Swanson

TOOLS TRADE

Rich Mattson’s Gretsch Country Gentleman shows the wear of time.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

MUSICIANS LOYAL TO THEIR BELOVED FAVORITE INSTRUMENTS

By Tony Bennett

If you know about musicians, you know that many of them have favorite instruments, ones that are almost as big a part of the sounds they make as their brains and hands are. Willie Nelson has “Trigger,” the nylon-string guitar that he’s played for decades to the point that the friction from his hands has worn holes in it. Neil Young has “Old Black,” a customized vintage Gibson Les Paul that he is rarely seen without.

It’s the same with local players. Like a pair of boots or a hat that’s worn in just the right way, musical instruments can be items that, once they’re broken in, never leave a person’s collection.

“You build relationships with instruments,” said Jake Larson, a Duluth recording engineer and musician who most

recently played with The Social Disaster. “They’re the vessels of our creativity, and you have to trust them to get your ideas across.”

Larson’s choice for the one piece of gear he’ll never part with: his Minimoog Voyager Old School synthesizer. “It’s the last synth that Bob Moog designed himself, and they only made 1,000 or so of them,” Larson said. “I don’t think I’ve even seen another one in person. At this point, it’s like an old friend to me. Sometimes we fight, but we always make up.”

He acquired the synth in a trade for a piece of gear he had lying around that someone wanted more than he did. “I had always wanted something more like a Minimoog to have in the studio for quick synth parts, but a vintage one would have many of the same maintenance issues — not to mention I couldn’t afford one,” Larson said.

“My whole life, I had been obsessed with the Moog sound, and finally, I had it,” Larson said. “I’d convince everyone to put it on their albums in one way or another. I ended up closing (my) studio, and the Moog came home to collect dust until I was asked to start a band with some of my friends. I said, ‘Sure, but I’m playing Moog bass.’ Everyone was fine with that, and it turned out to be a great way to stand out as a band. Something different. A rock band with synth bass.”

“You build relationships with instruments,” said Jake Larson, seen here playing his Minimoog Voyager Old School synthesizer.

Rich Mattson’s favorite guitar is one that he’s been seen with on stages all over the Midwest for decades. Indeed, his Gretsch Country Gentleman — purchased in Virginia, Minn., for $320 in 1986 — is an instrument that he, until recently, was rarely seen without.

“It felt right in my hands,” he said. “It was my main axe from 1989 to 2014 with my groups the Glenrustles and Ol’ Yeller. I never broke a string on stage with it, and for all the use I get out of the infamous Bigsby tremolo, it stays in tune remarkably well. I never had a backup guitar. I put all my faith in this one, and on average, I

played around 100 to 130 shows a year with it. At this point, the guitar is all but worn out. The frets are wrecked, and the bridge is a rusty bar of crud.

“I used to tell my close friends that, when I die, I’d like to be cremated and my ashes stuffed into the guitar. At my funeral, pass the guitar around and play a tune on it, or a few notes, then put it in that old beat-up case and bury it. Not sure if that’s the way I still want my remains dealt with — I mean, kind of a waste of a valuable instrument.”

continued on page 18

“I played around 100 to 130 shows a year with it. At this point, the guitar is all but worn out” said Rich Mattson of his Gretsch Country Gentleman.

Rich Mattson bought his Gretsch Country Gentleman for $320 in 1986.

Rich Mattson plays his Gretsch Country Gentleman guitar in 1992.

continued from page 17

Former Duluthian and mastermind of Timbre Ghost, Dustin Tessier said his 2004 Gibson Les Paul is the one piece of gear he’ll never part with. He said the guitar “has quite a bit of sentimental worth.” As with Mattson’s Gretsch, it took a bit of time for his particular instrument to sink its hooks in.

“At first, I had a tenuous relationship with the guitar, at best,” Tessier said. “It was only after not giving up on this guitar that the relationship started to flourish. I put hours upon hours of love into the guitar. It began to meld with my body in the way a pair of well-worn jeans becomes familiar to the physical form. Now it’s the most natural feeling. I pick that guitar up, and I know exactly where to dig my fingers in to get it to growl, how to ease the volume back and keep it sweet, and how to finesse it to get lyrical and melodic.”

Dustin Tessier's 2004 Gibson Les Paul.

Social Disaster drummer Ryan Nelson sums up the connection between an artist and the instruments they love when he speaks about his ’70s Ludwig Vistalite drums.

“I think a personal connection is what makes instruments special,” Nelson said. “They’re made to help the player express themselves in their own way, either on stage or on tape. And my drums tell their own story, especially since they’re older than I am. They’re scratched, scuffed, have been bled on. And I’ve had the pleasure of playing them on stage since I was 13 or so.”

Beloved instruments are not so because they’re the most expensive or the best-looking — it’s about a relationship between a person and an object that serves them the best in the pursuit of musical bliss.

Tony Bennett is a Duluth musician and freelance writer. Read his weekly album reviews for the Duluth News Tribune.

Ryan Nelson feels a connection to his 1970s Ludwig Vistalite drums.

(Clint

A FELINE FRIEND TO ALL

THE ‘GREAT CATSBY’ LIVES ON IN SCULPTURE BY THE LAKEWALK

By Alison Stucke

Though he lost his ninth and final life in November 2016, in a deadly encounter with a car, Catsby, a well-known and well-loved cat from Lakeside, lives on in Duluth’s collective memory. And now his image, cast in bronze, can be seen at the Lakewalk at 40th Avenue East. Local artist Ann Klefstad made the lifesize bronze statue of his likeness that playfully stands watch for friends old and new. The statue

includes a plaque and a QR code that accesses stories, photos, videos and social media about Catsby.

“Everyone thinks their pet is special, but this creature really was,” said Deb Hannu, a Duluth resident who met the “Great Catsby” even before moving in to her Lakeside home. “We were looking at our house to purchase it, and I saw a big cat on the porch. As we moved in and after, Catsby would come over and visit

A bronze sculpture of Catsby created by Duluth artist Ann Klefstad. People gathered in November for the dedication of a bronze sculpture of Catsby, the well-loved neighborhood cat who died the previous year.

Austin / caustin@ duluthnews.com)

and hang out. We’d hear his collar jingling, and he’d come trotting over to say hello. He would greet everybody.”

“The Great Catsby” was a large gray and white cat. He loved people and attention, and he loved the outdoors. His owner, Sue Hagge, couldn’t keep him from escaping his home to go outside. Sue got Catsby when he was 6 months old. He had been a barn cat and an outdoor cat in his previous home.

“Keeping him inside was impossible,” Sue said. “Catsby was a very unique cat. He was easily the smartest cat I’ve ever had. He loved to be around people. He was very good at lifting spirits wherever he went. It was his mission to be a blessing to everyone he met. It’s so nice to know that so many people thought so highly of him.”

Catsby wore a collar with a tag displaying Sue’s phone number, so people could call her if they found him away from home.

“He would roam around the neighborhood, where he would get

treats,” Deb said. “He had all of these connections with people in the community. He sort of seemed like everybody’s cat in the neighborhood. He seemed to know if you needed a little visit — he’d come and love you up a little. People collectively took care of him. I would drive him home, or late at night I’d call his number on his tag, and his mom would come and pick him up.”

He liked to walk on the Lakewalk and meet friends. He liked to go into businesses and neighbors’ houses. He’d visit Ecumen Lakeshore senior living community and Duluth East High School.

“He enjoyed the students at East, the people at Ecumen, and his friends at the Lakewalk,” Sue said. “He was known for jumping in cars, and running inside buildings to visit. He would just wait for people to pet him. He was just a special guy. We only had him for five years. It would have been nice to see his life go on and on. But at least it was five years.”

“A lot of kids at East have stories about him,” Deb said. “They’d blog about him, and they made an Instagram page for him. Kids would say things, like, it didn’t matter if you got good grades; he loved everybody.”

Stories were even heard that Catsby liked to ride on the hoods of cars as they went through the McDonald’s drive-thru on London Road.

“He was a pretty street-smart cat,” Deb said. “His range was from 60th Avenue East all the way to McDonald’s.”

A 5-K run through Catsby’s favorite areas was held last May, and a GoFundMe page was made to raise money for creation of the statue. An unveiling event was held at the statue in late November.

“He was a character, an old soul,” Deb said. “I think he’ll bring such joy to people who pass by him on the Lakewalk.”

Alison Stucke is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to Duluth.com.

Duluth East students watch during a dedication for a sculpture of Catsby. (Clint Austin / Duluth News Tribune)

invites you

TO OUR SECOND ANNUAL COCKTAIL HOUR & SYMPOSIUM Recognizing Women as a Driving Force

are mothers, grandmothers, daughters, sisters, aunts and friends; pilots, writers, receptionists, teachers, police officers and sculptors. The women of our community are a driving force and we want to recognize them for what they bring to our unique culture. The Woman Today is hosting a Recognizing Women as a Driving Force cocktail hour where we will celebrate who we are, what we do and how we touch those around us.

We’re looking to you, our readers, to help us celebrate those among us who drive us forward. If you would like to nominate a special woman you know please send us a 100 word proposal describing their contributions to the region. We will honor those in the following categories:

To nominate a woman who is a driving force fill out the online nomination form at thewomantoday.com or email ali@womantoday.com

Deadline for nominations is March 9th.

WeNORTHLAND COUNTRY CLUB • Tuesday, APRIL 10, 2018 • 5 P.M. join us for appetizers and champagne gets stuff done!

For questions please contact Ali 218-428-2929

Leadership Award – Presented to women who represent outstanding achievement in their field of endeavor.

The Spirit Award – Presented to a young woman who has shown exceptional courage and determination.

The Mentor Award – This award is given to a woman among us who has acted as an experienced and trusted adviser to those around her.

The Rosie Award – Rosie the Riveter is a cultural icon of the United States, representing the American women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II, many of whom produced munitions and war supplies. These women sometimes took entirely new jobs replacing the male workers who were sent off to war. Rosie the Riveter is used as a symbol of feminism and women’s economic power. This award is presented to that woman we all know who simply

march • april 2018 Calendar

Don’t miss out on any of these great activities

Renegade Theater presents ‘Sex with Strangers’

Feb. 22-24, March 1-10

When 20-something star sex blogger Ethan tracks down his idol, he finds they each crave what the other possesses. Adults $20; Students/seniors $17; rush tickets $10 Thursdays for students, seniors, artists. 7:30 p.m.; Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. 222 E. Superior St.

‘Rockin’ Road to Dublin’ at the DECC

March 15

“Rockin’ Road To Dublin” combines Irish dance and rock music, in the form of a Broadway theatrical production. Stars dancers Scott Doherty and Ashley Smith. Purchase tickets for this all-ages show at the DECC ticket office, call (800) 745-3000 or at ticketmaster.com.

Doors at DECC Symphony Hall open at 7 p.m.

The Duluth Playhouse’s Children’s Theater presents ‘The Wizard of Oz’

March 15-25

Dorothy Gale meets the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion in “The Wizard of Oz.” The yellow brick road leads to the Depot stage, which will be transformed into the Emerald City. 506 W. Michigan St. Tickets $15-$17. Call (218) 733-7555 or visit duluthplayhouse.org.

Little Big Town – The Breakers Tour

March 16

Country superstars Little Big Town, featuring special guests Kacey Musgraves and Midland. AMSOIL Arena, 350 Harbor Drive. Purchase tickets for this all-ages show at the DECC ticket office, call (800) 745-3000 or at ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., concert at 7:30 p.m. decc.org/event/little-bigtown.

FUN

The Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra presents ‘Green Grass of Home’

March 17

The DSSO collaborates with heritage groups and artists from Duluth, including Gaelynn Lea, winner of NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest, to celebrate the “Apostle of Ireland” on St. Patrick’s Day. Music and dancing from Ireland and other Celtic countries will fill the hall. This concert begins at 7 p.m. at the DECC Symphony Hall, 350 Harbor Drive. Tickets $20-$55. dsso.com.

Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra presents a ‘Lollipop Concert’

March 18

Join Sinfonia, Concert Orchestra and Youth Symphony as they present their 55th Annual Lollipop Concert. This concert begins at 3 p.m. at the DECC Symphony Hall, 350 Harbor Drive. Tickets $10-$25. dsso.com.

Zoo Tots

March 19, April 2, April 16

Through a story, activity, and animal encounter, children ages 2-3 will learn about a different animal each visit. Zoo Tots is a great way for toddlers to interact with each other as they learn about animals. Explore the zoo on your own after the program. No older siblings, please. No preregistration required. 10:3011 a.m. first and third Mondays of the month (none in May). Free for members. $2 plus admission for nonmembers. lszooduluth.org.

Free Yoga at Essentia Health Duluth Heritage Sports Center

March 21, 28

Participants will be accepted on a first come, first served basis; 40 spots available. Mats are available, and all levels are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 7-8 p.m. in the warming house on the mezzanine level of Sill Arena, 120 N. 30th Ave. W., Duluth. (218) 464-1711. essentiahealth.org.

Prom Across the Ages with Mentor Duluth

March 23

Go back in time and enjoy a prom night for adults! There will be a prom court made up of local celebrities (vote for your favorite), cash bar, raffle prizes and more. Participants are encouraged to dress in prom attire from their favorite decade. This year’s fundraiser will feature hypnotist Kellen Marson and KUMD DJ Julie Bray! Clyde Iron Works, 2920 W. Michigan St., 6:30-10 p.m. Free childcare available. Find “Prom Across the Ages” on Facebook.

Minnesota Ballet presents ‘Swan Lake’

March 23-25

Swan Lake is a grand sweep of enchantment, love, betrayal and poignant resolution. Prince Siegfried comes upon graceful swan maidens and falls in love with Odette, their beautiful queen. The wicked enchantment of Prince Siegfried by Von Rothbart’s daughter, Odile, inevitably leads to the final act of love. DECC Symphony Hall, 350 Harbor Drive. Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets $14-$46. minnesotaballet.org.

Mustache March Run 5K

March 24

This 5K run/walk is an out-and-back course on the Lakewalk that starts and ends near the steps of Fitger’s Complex. 5 p.m. start. Prerace packet pickup 2-4:45 p.m. at Rex Bar, 600 E. Superior St., Duluth. Check Mustache March Run Facebook event for updates.

50th annual Arrowhead Auto Body Motorhead Madness

March 24-25

Four of the DECC arenas will be filled with more than 100 one-of-a-kind, customs, trucks, 4x4s, hot rods, street rods, race cars, cycles and antiques. Guests can meet the designers, owners and builders. Flea market and swap meet. Tickets will be available at the DECC box office the weekend of the show. motorheadmadnessmn.com.

The original Harlem Globetrotters

March 29

The Harlem Globetrotters are an exhibition basketball team that combines athleticism, theater and comedy. Amsoil Arena at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the DECC tickets office, or through ticketmaster. $20-$95.

An evening with Foreigner and the Dave Eggar Orchestra

April 4

Foreigner is hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales. Teaming up with musical prodigy Dave Eggar. DECC Auditorium, 350 Harbor Drive. Doors open at 7 p.m.; concert starts at 8 p.m. jadepresents.com/event/2018foreigner-duluth/. Tickets $55.

Arrowhead Home & Builders Show

April 4-8

For 52 years, the Arrowhead Home and Builders Show has been bringing the latest trends and technology for the home under one roof, allowing you to meet the area’s very best experts who can help create your dream home and yard. DECC. Wednesday and Thursday 5-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adults $10, ages 6-17 $6, 5 and younger free. shamrockprod.com/ visitor/homeshow/homeshowvhome.aspx.

‘Kinky Boots’

April 9

“Kinky Boots,” the smash-hit Broadway musical, makes a stop at the DECC Symphony Hall. Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Charlie Price is struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price & Son. With the factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola, a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos. $32. ticketmaster.com.

dinne r&auction

Thursday, March 22

Greysolon Ballroom

Tickets: www.lsyouthchorus.org

On-going events

Glensheen Historic Estate

3300 London Road, Duluth, offers a 39-room mansion and 7 acres of formal gardens and working vegetable gardens. Grounds hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily with tours offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Visit glensheen.wp.d.umn.edu or call (218) 7268910.

Duluth Children’s Museum

115 S. 29th Ave. W., Duluth, offers programs and exhibits for children and families. Hours: 10 a.m. to p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Visit playduluth.org or call (218) 733-7543.

Duluth Depot

506 W. Michigan St., includes Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Duluth Art Institute, St. Louis County Historical Society and Veterans’ Memorial Hall. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Visit duluthdepot. org or call (218) 727-8025.

Douglas County Historical Society

1101 John Ave., Superior, offers exhibits, events and history theater. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; noon to 8 p.m. Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Call (715) 392-8449 or go to douglashistory.org.

Great Lakes Aquarium

353 Harbor Drive, Duluth, models a number of habitats from the Great Lakes and around the world. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday through March 31. Visit glaquarium.org or call (218) 740-3474.

Lake Superior Zoo

7210 Fremont St., Duluth, is the only zoo in Northeastern Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin. It features a wide variety of animals and educational displays. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Mondays; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Visit lszooduluth.org or call (218) 730-4500.

North Shore Scenic Railroad

506 W. Michigan St., Duluth. Go to northshorescenicrailroad.org or call (218) 7221273 for details.

LINCOLN PARK’S ‘LITTLE HOTEL’

RENOVATIONS UNDERWAY ON THREE-SUITE INN

By Teri Cadeau

Photography by Bob King

Chelsy Whittington has long dreamt of opening her own hotel.

“I’ve always had that idea in my head,” Whittington said. “So we started looking at various properties in the area where we could do so.”

This spring, Whittington and her husband, Andy Matson, will open their small hotel in Lincoln Park on the second floor of 1923 W. Superior St.

Hotel Pikku will have three hotel rooms. It’s only six blocks away from the couple’s home on Observation Hill.

“This is a chance to (open up a hotel) on a scale that was more manageable,” Whittington said. “Plus, it’s the kind of place that Andy and I like to stay in when we go on vacation. We look for the smaller inns, and they inspired me. I wanted to make a place where I’d want to stay.”

The name matches the size, as Pikku is Finnish for “small” or “odd.”

“Andy’s family is part Finnish, and we thought it was a nice little name for our little hotel,” Whittington said. “My nephew thought it was Pikachu, but no, no, we’re not a Pokemonthemed hotel.”

The couple purchased the building in April 2016 and have been working on renovations since. The downstairs area houses Hemlock Leatherworks studio, owned by Whittington’s friend, Candace LaCosse. The hotel splits the upstairs former apartment area into three sections, which have been renovated to include individual bathrooms and kitchenettes. Rooms will rent for between $100 and $150 a night.

“All the rooms are going to have different stuff in them, different looks, similar theme, but personal. There’s a little more space than in traditional hotel rooms as well, as each room is a suite,” Whittington said.

Whittington plans to have artwork from local artists and makers showcased in the hotel. Each room will feature artwork on the walls, functional craft items and possibly, locally made furniture.

“With the whole craft district push in the neighborhood, it just make sense,” Whittington said.

Right now, the finishing touches are underway on the hotel, such as light fixtures and renovating the courtyard in the back.

“And we’ll have to have the city folks back in to make sure we’re good to go,” Whittington said. “Our little hotel was something that they hadn’t really seen before when we went in to make sure we were up to code. I don’t think people are used to the idea of having just three hotel rooms, but I think they’ll like it.”

The hotel’s website is up and running. Whittington is already receiving messages from people interested in staying there when it opens this spring.

“We’ve got people already signed up, and we’ve heard from a ton of people. I’ve been checking it every day to see how many people have signed

up,” Whittington said.

Some may recognize Whittington from her other job as a visitor experience and events manager at Vikre Distillery. Matson also owns the family business, Great! Lakes Candy Store, in Knife River.

“And see, that’s another great thing. We’ve got our other steady jobs, but we’ll have plenty of time to be here for our guests, too,” Whittington said.

For more information on Hotel Pikku, visit thehotelpikku.com.

Teri Cadeau is a reporter for the Weekly Observer, a sister publication of Duluth.com.

The bathroom in this hotel room at Hotel Pikku has a tub, shower and tiled walls.

LOCAL PAIRINGS

HANABI JAPANESE CUISINE –NEW YORK-CALIBER SUSHI, SAKE AND JAPANESE FUSION SERVED UP FRESH IN DOWNTOWN DULUTH

By Andrea Busche

Photography by Michael Busche

Hanabi Japanese Cuisine has been comfortably folded into a modestsize brick building on the hillside of First Avenue West since it opened in January 2009. Customer parking is metered on the avenue, and slanted mightily uphill … particularly precarious during Duluth winters. But once customers sample this exciting food, most become hooked; they’ll gladly overcome any obstacle to obtain their meal. But keep in mind that you can also opt out of the parking experience entirely and have the Food Dudes deliver — Hanabi is one of their most popular clients.

Hanabi’s style is a mix of traditional Japanese cuisine and Japanese fusion. While their sushi is world-class, there is so much more on the menu than just raw fish. So, even if you have a “meat and potatoes”-type person in your crew (like I do), no sweat. There is something for everyone at Hanabi.

FIREWORKS … IN YOUR MOUTH

Hanabi is owned by Jack Huang, a former sushi chef from New York City. On a typical day, you’ll find three servers, three sushi chefs and two kitchen chefs on staff. Their sushi chefs must already be familiar with Japanese cuisine before getting the job, and once hired, all receive training from Jack.

The word Hanabi translates to “fireworks” in Japanese. The name is suiting, as dining at Hanabi is truly a voyage of flavors, textures and aromas; fireworks in your mouth, if you will. But, more on that later.

continued on page 30

The word Hanabi translates to “fireworks” in Japanese.

The bar at Hanabi is well-stocked.

continued from page 29

THE VIBE

As I entered the restaurant, my first thought was, “this place is so cool.” There was soft music playing in the background — trendy instrumentals with a thump of bass.

Featuring a sleek black ceiling, gray concrete walls and orange booths, the color scheme is understated, with a pop of color. Hanabi’s bar is artistically backlit, there is trendy “splatter art” on the walls (most of which is local and up for sale), and there is an entire wall of individual strings of white Christmas lights hanging from the ceiling, creatively knotted up on the ends. The sushi chefs create beautiful food at their station, where patrons can choose to enjoy the show.

Clientele on a Tuesday evening at 5 p.m. was mostly couples and a few groups of people dressed casually. And, while it was slow and quiet at 5, it started picking up at about 6.

THE SERVICE

Our server for the evening was a sweet, competent young lady named Stef Staudohar. She’s been on-staff at Hanabi for about two and a half years, and patiently answered all of our questions about everything from the sake and the cuisine to the art. We even asked for her advice on eating with chopsticks!

SO MUCH MORE THAN SUSHI

Many people think of Japanese cuisine as mainly sushi. While there is definitely a huge presence of fresh

sushi and sashimi on the menu, there is also fried rice, noodle dishes, seafood, hibachi, teriyaki dishes, tempura, cooked rolls and more. According to Hanabi’s manager, Joe Foster, their most popular items are fried rice, the North Shore Roll, Crunchy Roll and Spicy Krab Roll.

And when it comes to beverages, you’re in for a treat. There is a huge selection of sake (Japanese rice wine … pronounced sah-kay), red and white wines, imported, domestic and craft beers, Japanese whiskey and cocktails, many of which feature Duluth-crafted Vikre spirits.

WHAT WE ATE

My husband, Mike, isn’t the most … adventurous eater. He’s the type of dude who is happiest with a slab of

The Hanabi restaurant features a sleek interior and bold artwork. Inset photo: Hanabi server Stef Staudohar can help diners navigate anything unfamiliar to them on the menu.

meat alongside a chunk of starch. So, I’ll admit I was a bit nervous to bring him to Hanabi.

Thankfully, there was something there for every palate. After some intense conversation with Stef, weighing out the pros and cons of the noodles versus rice, Mike opted for the fried rice. Normally, a person would choose the vegetarian option, beef, chicken or shrimp. Mike wanted to try both the beef and the chicken, so he got a double-meat, no veggie option.

And, for me … under the “Chef’s Special Rolls” section of the menu, I selected the Sweet & Sassy Roll, described on the menu as “shrimp tempura and avocado, topped with spicy krab salad, spicy mayo and eel sauce.”

A SPECIAL TREAT FROM CHEF

While we waited for our food to arrive, Stef stopped by to announce that the chef had sent over something special for us to sample. When I asked what it was, her response was, “Well, it doesn’t have a name, actually, but it’s fillet mignon surrounding a ball of

rice and served with a special soy-based sauce.”

This appetizer without a name was amazing. Thanks, Chef!

Soon, our entrees arrived. Mike’s fried rice was fluffy and flavorful, filled with a generous amount of sliced steak and chicken. While fried rice can sometimes be greasy, Hanabi’s version is light and less oily. The fried rice comes with a side of Hanabi’s proprietary “Yum Yum Sauce,” which is creamy and rich and well, yummy! Mike took a pass, so I gratefully nabbed the Yum for my own plate.

Mike attempted to eat his rice with chopsticks after a quick primer from Stef (“I hold one like a pencil, and move the bottom stick with my ring finger”), eventually succumbing to the faster plate-to-mouth delivery of a fork. After self-consciously recognizing that there were several other patrons nearby, I skipped the chopsticks entirely.

And, now to my Sweet & Sassy Roll … where to begin with this delicious treasure? First of all, my roll was cooked. While I have tried raw fish sushi before, I personally prefer the

cooked options. The tempura shrimp inside the roll was coated with delicate, crispy panko crumbs, and nestled in among some perfectly ripe chunks of avocado. This concoction was enclosed with a seaweed wrap, and coated with sticky rice on the outside.

On top of each bite of roll was a healthy portion of spicy krab (the “k” denotes imitation, not real, crab), and two sauces drizzled on top. The mayo sauce was spicy, and the brown eel sauce was sweet.

continued on page 32

Hanabi sushi chefs Fusajiro Yusaki, Ken Tanaka and Takei Yamoto.

This “appetizer without a name” was an unexpected treat.

continued from page 31

Hence the name, this roll was sweet and most definitely sassy. Recognizing that my roll was already quite sassy, I took a pass on the sliced ginger and wasabi paste that accompanied the roll. But I did enjoy a dunk of soy sauce and a dip of Yum. With each bite, I encountered salty with sweet; crunchy with soft, and oh so much flavor. This roll was amazing, and after polishing off every crumb, I was completely full for the rest of the night. The roll was beautiful — truly a work of art. And both of our dishes were served on beautiful white square and rectangular plates, making the art of presentation a huge aspect of Hanabi’s appeal.

WHAT WE DRANK

Although this column is known as Local Pairings, we simply couldn’t pass up the opportunity to pair our meal with some delicious Japanese beverages. At Stef’s suggestion, I ordered the Gekkeikan Zipang Junmai sparkling sake to accompany my roll.

The wine was served in an individual bottle that I poured into the tiniest, cutest little sake cup. Naturally carbonated, it has a sweet yet refreshingly light

flavor. It also comes in mango. The slightly sweet and bubbly wine paired deliciously with the shrimp roll, and it helped put out the heat of the sauces.

Mike ordered a Sapporo, which is a Japanese rice lager. Japan’s oldest brand of beer, it features a crisp, balanced flavor. The Sapporo, which was served in a sturdy, 22-ounce can, was a nice complement to the riceand-meat dish.

THE VERDICT

If your palate could use a little excitement, Hanabi is an excellent choice. Whether you’re adventurous enough to sample some sushi or sashimi, or are just looking for some fried rice, their comprehensive menu doesn’t disappoint.

And, if you’re new to Hanabi, be sure to check out their very reasonably priced lunch specials, including rolls and teriyaki dishes. They also have a happy hour special every evening. If you’re simply not in the mood for the parking situation or the excitement of the downtown scene, call the Food Dudes and have your meal delivered!

Sweet & Sassy Roll

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer and frequent contributor to Duluth.com.

Beef & Chicken Fried Rice

Artwork adorns the walls of the Hanabi dining room.

PEOPLE

A DRAMATIC SCENE

The NorShor Theatre in downtown Duluth celebrated its refurbishing and reopening Jan. 31 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour the day before it opened its premiere show, “Mama Mia!.”

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE TRUAX/DULUTH.COM

January 31, 2018

A view of the house from stage left.

Maarja Anderson Hewitt (left) and Sue Mageau represent Visit Duluth at the ribbon cutting.

Local media tour NorShor after ribbon cutting.

Snack bar outside of theatre.

Artwork in the stairwell features scenes of Duluth in an Art Deco style.

The stage is set for “Mamma Mia!”

Drinks and snacks will be served at a bar upstairs.

NORSHOR RIBBON CUTTING

our calendar of events

View of stage from balcony.

Duluth Playhouse Board Chair Herb Minke speaks to local media at the NorShor ribbon cutting.

Local media tour NorShor after ribbon cutting.

Duluth Mayor Emily Larson speaks to local media at the NorShor ribbon cutting.

(from left) Duluth Playhouse Board Chair Herb Minke, Greater Downtown Council President Kristi Stokes, Sherman Associates President George Sherman, and Duluth Mayor Emily Larson officially open the ropes to the theatre at the NorShor Ribbon Cutting.

Workers finish a final coat of fresh paint the day before “Mamma Mia!” opens. see