Eat This! Drink That!

Okay, you don't have to go halfway 'round the world to talk about wine... you can just cue up this episode. Kritian Kielmayer knows about wine! Not just Hungarian vineyards and bottles, but the broad european landscape. I had the good fortune to sit and listen to his words on wine at the Kimpton BEM in the fall of 2024. He has buckets of passion for this industry and the enjoyment of what starts out as grapes... and becomes so much more.

With a broad repertoire - at his fingertips - Nicolas Kilhoffer is one with the keyboards. I had the good fortune of hearing (and watching) him play at St. Peter and St. Paul's Anglican Church in Esquimalt. Studying piano at 7 he taught himself the organ at 10 and by 2017 was enrolled the Conservatoire in Strasbourg. This 22 year old can make the pipes sing. He has now returned to France after travel to Canada (studying at UVic), Hawaii, and teaching in Nairobi.

Black and white images of couples, colour photos of dancers, a fully kitted out studio... Michael Kaiser is ready for you on-site, or out in the landscape of your choice. His wedding photos are remarkable and timeless. There is an inventiveness and playful nature to what he produces. Join me for a conversation with this professional on what photography and photographic memories can do for your quality and enjoyment of life.

I wanted to know more about the use of AI in some current research and applications. Over coffee at Salute - here in Sudbury - Augustin Marks de Chabris outlined his Master's thesis work on potential efficencies using AI in the underground/mining environment. Naturally we talked about robotics, cybersecurity, and the future. I found Augustin optimistic and at the same time very aware of the hestitancy by many in the adoption of new technologies. In all a very topical and fascinating conversation.

Family photos, documents, memories... the Koivu family has preserved their history. In late 2024 I went to visit with them and look through albums and be listen to stories. George was 99 then, and this was the first year he had missed being present at a Remembrance Day ceremony. Two weeks later daughter Kathy texted me to share that their Dad was gone. Mentionned in one article, featured in another I now covered his memorial service at the local (Chelmsford) Legion. This episode is a tribute to a life lived well.

Ryan and I have been wanting to do an episode of QOL together for years. And finally... we did it! Ryan's motto is "If you have a dream, don't let anything stop you," and you can add "Dream big, work harder," to that philospohy. His store on Lasalle is just filled with great messages. Come along and listen to how Ryan's positivity is infectuous.

Want to know more about plans for the new central library? CEO and Chief Librarian Brian Harding walks me through the decision-making and process of relocating the central library. We talk broadly and specifically about everything from cost, to how this is an opportunity to express new and best practices in service delivery. Accessibility, use of natural light, investment in literacy are but three of the areas we touch on.

I visited with Melissa and Lisa to see what they have created on Regent Street in Sudbury. Adjacent to The Nickel Refillery this cute space offers guests and place to hang out. Not only is there great coffee (and teas) but handmade vegan and vegetarian soups and sandwiches. Here we have a conversation about their entreprenneurial journey and what's on the menu.

What was once a tonic to soothe the emperor came a drink that can be called a digestif. The Italians call this alcoholic beverage amaro, and Germans magenlikor. The history of the Zwack family and the unfolding of the political and economic landscape of Hungary are parallel stories. Take the tour and understand the ingredients and aromatics that make up this unique product line. Many thanks to Szabados Olivér for the conversation at Uniucm Ház in Budapest.

In this episode of QOL we visit with Sue Scherzingerat Gourmet World. From cold cuts to cheese, and chocolates to cookies, this is the place to go for all kinds of European goodies. Yes, I think you can do all your holiday shopping right here! There are always sandwiches (served with a snappy Knax pickle) and soup for a satisfying lunch. Let's explore the aisles and show cases with Sue and see the house-made cakes and desserts. Check out their website to see it all: www.gourmetworld.ca

I've had the pleasure of knowing Don since high school. We weren't always connected but our worlds collided from time to time. Because flights cross-Canada sometimes have layovers or long delays there were opportunities to renew that friendship. I was in Calgary on the cusp of a weather event when we spoke about Don's years in the Canadian Forces. We also returned to the story he shared of taking his Dad to Vimy Ridge and the beaches of Normandy. I knew someday I'd make a record to supplement the photos Don took on this adventure supporting his Dad's dream.

Stunning architecture, attention to details, service that includes champagne everytime you pass through the grand lobby... the list can go on and on. General Manager Attila AE Domby speaks on the history of thsi LEED Platinum property that is Kimpton's first verture on a new frontier. Well known in the US Kimpton is raising the bar in the city where west meets east. Speaking of bars there is a well provisioned rooftop SkyBar as well a one on the main floor. Quality dining experiences, and an extensive Hungarian wine selection really enhance the stay. I apologize for the slight echo, but imagine this interview happening in their wine gallery!

Éric Boutilier is a bilingual photo journalist, freelance columnist and television producer in Northern Ontario... he is also an advocate for improving rail service in Northern Ontario. Éric and I have a conversation about the challenges facing not just small towns, but the very network that once stitched our country together.

To be invited back to further explore the world of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a continuing delight. Cliff Goldfarb knows so much about Doyle... and he shares more than the vast Sherlock Holmes library of stories. Doyle was a prolific writer and Cliff provides titles and the details of Doyle's life and times.

Geoffrey, a seasoned wine writer and retailer, discusses his career and experiences in the wine industry. He highlights the benefits of Alberta's privatization, which allows for exclusive wine imports and a diverse wine market. Geoffrey shared his journey from cooking to wine retail, emphasizing the importance of passion in his work. He mentions his monthly column for PostMedia, which has been syndicated nationally, and his travels to wine regions like California and Portugal. Geoffrey also touched on the challenges faced by wine retailers, the impact of climate change on wineries, and the potential for Canadian wine regions to collaborate better.

Hugh Kruzel interviews Friba Rezayee, Afghanistan's first female Olympic athlete and founder of Women Leaders of Tomorrow, which helps Afghan women access education in Canada. Friba discusses the Taliban's restrictions on women's education and sports, leading many to seek opportunities abroad. Women Leaders of Tomorrow has received over 600 applications for mining and geology scholarships. 4 women have been selected to come to Laurentian University in Sudbury though only one is here at the time of this recording. 25 women are already in Canada. Friba highlights the risks Afghan girls face, including the need for male guardians to leave the country. She emphasizes the importance of education and the support from Canadian mining companies and donors.

What a pleasure to connect with Kevin Jackson, President of Porter Airlines. I last saw him on the arrival of the inaugual flight of the E195-E2 service to Victoria. Yes, Porter now has jets in its fleet! Sitting on Muskoka chairs at Billy Bishop airport we have a conversation about the history of Porter, its current activities, and plans for the future.

Through the kindness of Stephen Lautens we learn about one of the great Canadian institutions: The National Club. Celebrating 150 years Stephen has prepared a history of the club. The book "Tradition and Change" demonstrates how Canada has grown up, and specifically how Toronto has transformed from Muddy York to an international mega-city. Come along for the ride as we talk about the benefits of finding a place where good food, and great wine, encourages dialogue, friendly debates, and inspiring conversation.

Rachelle Rocca of Seasons Pharmacy and Culinaria is organizing a health and wellness symposium at College Boreal. It happens in the evening (7-9) of October 29th. She believes strongly that everyone can take charge of their well-being and achieve improved health and quality of life outcomes. "Where food meets medicine" is Seasons' motto. Learn more about this gathering and the panel of three who will lead the discussion. Go to the Seasons' website and register to attend this event.

Benita Dellelce - an Entrepreneur since 1981 - is a makeup artist, and personal development coach. She owns Charm Plus which prepares anyone and everyone to step forward with their best foot... she also is a model/talent agent. Hundreds and hundreds of Sudburians have benefitted from her advice, guidance, and skills. Join us for a convesation about being the best you can be.