The Community Edition: February 2019

VOLUME 7, ISSUE 5 • FEBRUARY 2019

WATERLOO REGION TINY LOVE STORIES

PAGES 8-9

CRAFT BEER NEWBIE TRIES ARABELLA’S TAP LIST PAGE 6

WR PARAMEDICS TO CARRY KETAMINE FOR PATIENT PAIN PAGE 11

BUILDING THE PERFECT TACO TUESDAY PAGE 16

FEBRUARY 2019 // @THECOMMUNITYED

IN THIS

ISSUE

VOLUME 7, ISSUE 5

FEBRUARY 2019

THIS ISSUE OF TCE WAS FUELED BY SAUCY SEA CAPTAINS, FOSTER DOGS, TOO MUCH PIZZA AND A NEW CAT WHO STILL DOESN’T HAVE A NAME.

2

FEATURE

8-9 WATERLOO REGION TINY LOVE STORIES

EDITOR’S PICK

16 DECONSTRUCTING ETHEL’S TACO TUESDAY

INSIDE

3 4 4 5 5 6 7 7 10 11 12 12 13 13 14 15

IN BRIEF NEW DAY-BY-DAY PROJECT BY LOCAL POET DEBUNKING MYTHS SURROUNDING EATING DISORDERS 519 SCHMECKS: HOW TO DO VALENTINE’S LIKE A CHEF THE BRAIN BEHIND THE HOLISTIC PARENT TACKLING THE ARABELLA WALL SEXPLANATIONS: ON MIDWIVES WISE GUYS AND WISER MINDS EASY BEING GREEN: THROW AWAY YOUR TAMPONS NEW DRUGS IN THE BACK OF THE AMBULANCE HANG OUTS WITH OLIVIA WITZKE ABE ERB’S SMALL TOWN MOVE HYPERLOCAL TRAVEL: GETTING OUTSIDE IN WINTER NEW TUNE REVIEW TCE POETRY HARU NOON // EVENT LISTINGS

COVER BY JOSH AWOLADE JOSH IS A FREELANCE ARTIST LOCATED IN TORONTO AND A LAURIER GRADUATE. HIS ART CAN ALSO BE SEEN IN OUR CENTRE SPREAD. FOR MORE OF HIS WORK, CHECK OUT HIS INSTAGRAM: @JOSHAWOL

Volume 7, Issue 5 Next issue: March, 2019 75 University Ave. W Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5 519-884-0710 x3564

All advertising inquiries should be directed to Care Lucas at 519-884-0710 x3560 care.lucas@wlusp.com

THE COMMUNITY EDITION TEAM

WLUSP ADMINISTRATION

Editor in Chief Beth Bowles beth@communityedition.ca

President TJ Mroz

Publisher Lakyn Barton lakyn.barton@wlusp.com Social Media Coordinator Brit Kovacs Social Media Coordinator Ramona Leitao Web Manager Care Lucas Photo Editor Nick Stanley Photo Editor Paige Bush General Inquiries info@communityedition.ca

Executive Director Lakyn Barton Advertising Manager Care Lucas Treasurer Garrison Oosterof Vice-Chair Shyenne MacDonald Directors Rosalind Horne Shyenne MacDonald Maiya Mistry H.G. Watson Corporate Secretary Maiya Mistry

CONTRIBUTORS Josh Awolade Teghan Barton Nick Benninger Gabby Borgerink Stacey Danckert Jesse Derry Brian Douglas Melissa Embury Vanda Frak Aaron Hagey Qiao Liu Jennifer Lyon Bashar Lulu Jabbour Stacey Jacobs Juanita Metzger Micheline Mooney Ryan Orr Nicole Schiener Jordan Snobelen James Toenders Linsday Totzke Cara Vandermey TWITTER @THECOMMUNITYED INSTAGRAM @COMMUNITYEDITION

The Community Edition is an alternative monthly intended to engage and inform the community.

Started in 2012, the Community Edition is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors.

Opinions expressed within the Community Edition are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, the Community Edition, WLUSP, WLU or Centra Web. All content appearing in the Community Edition bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.

The Community Edition is a member of the Ontario Press Council, which is an independent ethical organization established to deal with editorial concerns.

For additional information or to file a complaint, contact info@ontpress.com or call 416-340-1981.

Preamble to the Community Edition Constitution The Community Edition will keep faith with its readers by presenting news and expressions of opinions comprehensively, accurately and fairly. The Community Edition believes in a balanced and impartial presentation of all relevant facts in a news report, and of all substantial opinions in a

matter of controversy.

The staff of the Community Edition shall uphold all commonly held ethical conventions of journalism. When an error of omission or of commission has occurred, that error shall be acknowledged promptly.

When statements are made that are critical of an individual, or an organization, we shall give those affected the opportunity to reply at the earliest time possible. Ethical journalism requires impartiality, and consequently conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest will be avoided by all staff. The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so the Community Edition will attempt to cover its world with a special focus on the community of Waterloo Region.

Ultimately, the Community Edition will be bound by neither philosophy nor geography in its mandate.

The Community Edition has an obligation to foster freedom of the press and freedom of speech. This obligation is best fulfilled when debate and dissent are encouraged, both in the internal workings of the paper, and through the Community Edition’s contact with the community. The Community Edition will always attempt to do what is right, with fear of neither repercussions, nor retaliation. The purpose of community press is to act as an agent of social awareness, and so shall conduct the affairs of our magazine.

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

3

IN BRIEF NEWS

ARTS

POLICE SUSPECT OPEN SESAME TARGETED MURDER CLOSES DOORS

This month, we hung out with Olivia Witzke, local artist and photographer. Read more about Olivia on page 12.

NICK STANLEY PHOTO

URBAN BUS PASSES SAFE

On Jan. 31, 56-year-old Kurt McKechnie was gunned down at his Cambridge townhouse. He later died in hospital. McKechnie, a military veteran who served overseas for the Canadian Forces, had a reputation as a gentle, helpful friend and neighbour. It is now speculated that the attack was targeted, and that McKechnie knew his killers.

Local gallery/book/houseware store, Open Sesame, announced the closing its storefront at 220 King Street West in Kitchener on Feb. 28. In a Facebook post, store owner Lauren Weinberg commented that rent and property taxes were part of the reasons for closing.

The store will continue online at opensesameshop.com and there will still be events held in February.

What ancillary fees have been deemed essential and nonessential has been a recent topic of conversation for postsecondary students as preimier Doug Ford has embarked on a mission to cut back student fees.

While the existance of student media is still in jeopardy by having its funding cut, bus passes were recently deemed essential.

RECORD NUMBER OF OVERDOSES

KW CLOTHING PROMOTES PRIDE

NEW COLLISION SAFETY CAMPAIGN

At the beginning of February, Waterloo Regional Police released the January statistics showing officers responded to 75 suspected overdoses; of that 75, 10 people died. In all of last year, 50 people died of an opiod overdose in the Region. Therefore, this monthly number is overwhelmingly high.

Naloxone kits are still available for free at pharmacies in the Region.

An up-and-coming online clothing store, 43x80, has been gaining interest in the area for its emphasis on creating a sense of unity, cohesion, and regional pride. As a new business-owner, Alli Bearinger wants to take her love for KW and give people a little piece to take around the world. She is hoping to promote KW through collaboration.

A new public safety campaign in Waterloo Region will aim to educate drivers in efforts to reduce collisions and other minor accidents. This initiative came to be because roads are now shared with other users who aren’t driving cars, whereas 25-years ago, safety was centred predominately around the car. The campaign will include cyclist and pedestrian safety.

KIDS VAPING IN SCHOOLS

CITIZENS OF CAMBRIDGE

GROUNDHOG SAYS EARLY SPRING

Teachers and staff in Waterloo Region high schools are saying more and more kids are vaping inside schools because e-cigarettes are so difficult to spot. Vaping is known to contribute to nicotine habits, and with they’re tasty flavours in sleek designs, they’re appealing to kids.

Kids, if you’re reading this, vaping makes you look like a dumby.

New TV series, Citizens of Cambridge, is now available on Bell Fibe TV1. The goal of the show, executed by Kathilee Porter and Tim Chevrier, is to get people talking about themselves. As a result, those interviewed revealed compelling stories about their lives. There is talk of expanding the series to Kitchener and Waterloo.

Ontario celebrity groundhog Wiarton Willie didn’t see his shadow this past Feb. 2, predicting an early spring. Folklore says that if a groundhog sees its shadow on Groundhog Day, it will retreat back into its burrow, preparing for more winter. Apparently everyone’s favourite premier, Doug Ford, clapped at this news. I’d much rather hear about Bill Murray.

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

4

12-MONTH BOOK PROJECT

ADDRESSES INVISIBLE DISABILITY

LOCAL SPOKEN WORD POET EMBARKS ON NEW PROJECT THAT HIGHLIGHTS DAY-BY-DAY STRUGGLES

RAMONA LEITAO SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Leaving her mark wherever she goes, Mona Faith Mousa, a spoken word poet of nearly 12 years, has done the same in Kitchener Waterloo, after only moving here this past August.

With her artist management agency for artists of colour Feather & Anchor, and her overall advocacy on social justice issues such as accessibility, LGBTQ equality and gender equity, Mousa aims to challenge the approach in which we perceive others.

Her upcoming project, Today, is no exception. According to Mousa, this 12-month book project aims to address invisible disability by highlighting the day-by-day struggles of those who are impacted by it.

“In 2016 or 2015, I was on a tour, a 90-day U.S. tour … and we got into a car accident,” Mousa said when explaining what drove her to write Today.

Since then, Mousa has been living with constant chronic back pain, which according to her, has greatly impacted her life.

“Post-accident, I can’t walk for more than 15 minutes without my back hurting or being absolutely exhausted,” she said. “Also before the accident I was diagnosed with celiac.

So I have invisible illnesses too …

I can’t think of a day in the past month where I felt okay for three or four days in a row, where I haven’t felt a surge of back pain or some cross-contamination of gluten.”

Mousa explained that despite these daily difficulties, on the outside, she looked able-bodied.

“I’m 29; if you just looked at me you would not know I [am] facing all these barriers. It is incredible what people with disabilities have to face on a daily basis … [these] are things I never had to think about before,” she said.

Today will consist of sections that have monthly calendars that will indicate everything the author does.

“

THERE’S SUCH A SPECTRUM OF PEOPLE LIVING AMONG US. -MONA FAITH MOUSA, POET AND WRITER

“As each month goes by in the calendar, there will be journal entries, or novel entries, or photography, or poetry. Even the playlists or music I’m listening to that day or my meal plans,” she said.

“It’s mainly to show that just because we’re busy doesn’t mean we’re able.”

The writing process for this project

Mona Faith Mousa is the author of Today, a 12-month book project. BRIAN DOUGLAS PHOTOS in particular has been a unique learning experience for Mousa, as well.

“It’s kind of like the vulnerability is the biggest thing that I didn’t expect.

The amount of vulnerability that I would have to put out. I’m usually a head-strong, alpha person,” she said.

“But I was always worried … because there are people everyday who are in wheelchairs or have visible disabilities and one of my friends who’s a disability activist in Vancouver said that’s just internalized ableism. It’s okay to say that you are also a person with a disability.”

Mousa hopes that Today will help people rethink the way they see others and challenge the need for accessibility.

“There’s such a spectrum of people living amongst us,” she said. “[People cannot] just assume that [others] are able to do things or live like you or navigate the world like you.”

She explained that the goal isn’t to be able-bodied, but the goal is to live in this body.

“Because everyone thinks the goal is being able-bodied … this is the life I value and know, and I’m quite content with it to be honest. I don’t want to change that. What I want to

change is that ignorance from the larger population on how things are,” she said.

According to Mousa, the book will be completely written by Dec. 31, 2019, and will most likely be edited and released a few months into 2020.

BREAKING DOWN EATING DISORDER MYTHS

EATING DISORDERS AWARENESS WEEK IS THE FIRST WEEK OF FEBRUARY, BUT WHAT DO WE REALLY KNOW ABOUT EATING DISORDERS?

OPINION

SUZANNE DIETRICH CONTRIBUTOR With Eating Disorders Awareness Week in Canada taking place the first week of February, I thought I’d bust some of the prevailing myths surrounding this serious but often overlooked mental illness.

MYTH #1: EATING DISORDERS ONLY AFFECT THIN, WHITE, MIDDLE-CLASS WOMEN You cannot tell by looking at someone whether they have an eating disorder. Present in all genders, sexual orientation, races, socio-economic classes, abilities,

ages, ethnic backgrounds and body sizes, eating disorders do not discriminate.

In Canada there are approximately one million people diagnosed as suffering from an eating disorder.

Since many eating disorders go undiagnosed, this number doesn’t capture the full gravity of the problem. In addition, many people with disordered eating don’t fit the eating disorder criteria, but still suffer as they live with food and/ or weight pre-occupation to a lifelimiting extent. Eating disorders in people with larger bodies are also frequently underdiagnosed because of weight stigma among health care providers.

MYTH #2: EATING DISORDERS ARE ABOUT VANITY Eating disorders are not about vanity and they are not a chosen lifestyle, but rather, a serious, biologically-influenced mental

illness. They are extremely complex, with food and weight pre-occupation mere symptoms of a deeper problem.

MYTH #3: “I WOULD EASILY BE ABLE TO TELL IF MY FRIEND/ LOVED HAD AN EATING DISORDER” We often do not see eating disorder symptoms from the outside.

Individuals may hide symptoms such as food restriction, binging, purging, extreme exercising, laxative use or other symptoms for fear of being exposed. At the same time, feelings of shame, confusion and anxiety about food and weight can create isolation. Educate yourself about eating disorders so you can help your loved one and find professional support.

MYTH #4: EATING DISORDERS ARE NOT THAT SERIOUS Regardless of the type, eating

disorders can be very serious and debilitating. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness. Those suffering from eating disorders carry an increased risk for both suicide and physical/mental complications.

The good news is this biologicallybased mental illness is treatable with appropriate medical, nutritional and therapeutic support. In addition to the afflicted individual’s loved one, experienced health or mental health professionals are key players in such support.

the contrary, science informs us that there is not just ‘one size that fits all’ and that good health can prevail across a large spectrum of body shapes and sizes.

Anti-fat biases and stigma only serve to contribute to body shame and increased anxiety about food and weight. Even complimenting someone for their weight loss may reinforce disordered eating! Instead, we can learn to compliment other personal attributes by remembering that we are each so much more than our appearance and eating habits.

MYTH #5: EATING DISORDERS ARE CAUSED ONLY BY THE CURRENT TOXIC, DIET-CULTURE SOUP IN WHICH WE SWIM

Suzanne Dietrich is a registered dietician working in Waterloo and Guelph.

Both biology and environment contribute to the development and maintenance of an eating disorder.

Even though we are often faced with erroneous messages and misinformed health information to

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

5

QIAO LIU FILE PHOTO

HOW TO DO VALENTINE’S DAY LIKE A CHEF

519 SCHMECKS

NICK BENNINGER COLUMNIST The only thing a chef kisses the second week of February is their social life goodbye.

Chefs, servers, dishwashers, onion peelers, foragers, sommeliers and anyone remotely associated with the restaurant, is working. Simply put, Hallmark’s big day is the restaurant world’s big day — its busy!

So, why take advice from a chef who never actually celebrates Valen-

tine’s Day? It’s simple, I’ve seen it all, and tried along the way to make the best of Feb. 14 for as many hopeless fools as I could. Learning a thing or two along the way, I’m obligated to share as much as I can.

Insist on going out? Let’s make you the best dinner possible, not for me, not for your server or anyone at the restaurant other that you and your date. It’s not an easy day to execute for restaurants, overwhelmed with bookings packed with expectation, so if you can help by being a great customer, your experience will be that much better.

Want a 7 p.m. reso by the fireplace?

Book early, there’s only a few of those gems and everybody wants one, so set a calendar reminder and call in early January. If you didn’t do

that four weeks ago ... there’s always 2020 or a 4:30 dinner reservation at the bar.

My advice, and this is debated by my peers, is to book somewhere running a set Valentine’s prix fixe menu. Sure, it’s a bit restricting and might not feature your usual order, but I guarantee this menu will be fresh, interesting and well executed because that’s what the veteran restaurant crew intended. This also leaves less time perusing a big menu and more time meaningfully connecting like soulmates.

Want to really impress me? Dine on Feb. 13 or 15, usually the same menus can be found without the crowds.

I hope that’s helpful, but what I’d really like you to do is take it to the next level and DIY it this Valentine’s

day. No, that’s not a cheap joke — it’s my best advice.

To me it’s the only way; my job counts on patrons coming out to restaurants, but my heart wants to see more people cooking real food at home.

Even if you hate cooking, learn a couple recipes and perfect one this Feb. 14. That mixed with an Al Green-centric playlist, a clean home, some candles and bottle of wine you can speak to without sounding like an ass, and you’re set.

Seafood is the way for your menu, super tasty, super sensual, shows a mature even sophisticated palate and screams “kitchen confidence!”

It also cooks quick and eats light leaving lots of time and energy for whatever the night brings.

Ninja level advice: nothing says “I care for things and take my time with it” like making bread, when someone who has a modest attraction for you sees you using your hands and working a bread dough it’s almost a guaranteed instant bump in primal attraction. Play it easy with dessert and get some fine chocolates from local maker Ambrosia Corner Bakery and look out chef — you made it work.

Good luck lovers, I mean it. There’s too much pressure these days to stress about romance. And if you need the extra help, check out my recipes on the website for your perfect Valentine’s Day menu!

Nick Benninger is a local chef and restaurant owner.

THE FACE BEHIND THE HOLISTIC PARENT GABBY BORGERINK CONTRIBUTOR

PAIGE BUSH PHOTO

The Holistic Parent Magazine is just that, a resource for holistic products and services for parents in Waterloo Region. The magazine launched in 2014 by owner and publisher, Elaine Kapogines.

Kapogines studied journalism at Humber College and has worked in journalism since the day she graduated.

“I had always wanted to start my own magazine and always saw myself as an entrepreneur and owning my own business,” she said.

Kapogines has not always lived in Waterloo Region; she is originally from the GTA. Kapogines’ work in KW started when she and her husband moved here to settle down.

“I went to school at Western and my husband was at Waterloo, and I spent a lot of time here,” she said.

“Even in the university days, we fell in love with the Region. We would go to St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market every weekend I was here and we just loved everything about it. It had enough stuff to do that it felt almost like it was a city, but also had this small town feel. We just completely fell in love with the community.”

Kapogines is so passionate about Waterloo Region and you can feel it

when she speaks.

“I love all of the little pockets: downtown Kitchener, uptown, Galt, Hespeler, all tiny communities dropped in and encompassed by all of Waterloo Region.”

The Holistic Parent Magazine was only supposed to be a one-off issue, but Kapogines got such positive feedback, she knew it needed to be a permanent magazine in the Region.

She saw a gap that needed to be filled.

“I was part of holistic parent groups on Facebook and my entrepreneurial brain sort of saw an opportunity. I saw all these other moms and parents doing the same things I was, and there was no real community for it,” she said.

Before she knew it, The Holistic Parent Magazine started doing vendor events, had its own podcast, and started hosting networking events.

“It’s a whole other ball game when you meet in person and sit down and have a drink and conversation. I hope to facilitate those connections for people.”

In 2017 she hosted four events and in 2018 she hosted seven. Kapogines has had amazing feedback and growth in not only other women’s businesses, but her own as well.

“People want these connections.

As much as we love being online and making connections through Instagram, I just don’t think you can beat a face-to-face conversation with someone,” Kapogines said.

Kapogines’ goals for the magazine aren’t quite clear yet, but she definitely wants to reach a bigger audience beyond Waterloo Region, and bring more value on many different platforms.

“A really big focus for me is having multiple ways to reach people.

The content is so great and it is universal. Someone in Vancouver could pick it up and still get something out of it, ” she said.

For almost six years, she has been a full-time mom while running the magazine, and once her youngest daughter goes off to kindergarten this September, she will be able to work full-time at Holistic Parent Magazine.

“I’m able to do this after the kids go to bed, or while we are sitting down having a meal, I am firing off emails.

This is how I’ve been functioning for a long time. I want to make this a successful company and not just a little hobby I do on the side,” she said.

You can find The Holistic Parent Magazine in over 90 local businesses across the Region and listen to podcast episodes online. Kapogines will also be hosting the first Holistic Parent Magazine Market, on Mother’s Day weekend.

FEBRUARY 2019 // @THECOMMUNITYED

6

JESSE DERRY PHOTO

GUY WHO ONLY SIPS ON PBR AND CANADIAN

(ALMOST) DRINKS ARABELLA’S ENTIRE WALL JAMES TOENDERS CONTRIBUTOR Hey guys, it’s your buddy James here. If you know me, you know that I like to drink beer, though I’m more of a “drink 100oz of Canadian in 100 minutes” kinda boy than “casual 9.5 per cent barrel-aged double-dryhopped bangers.”

Hops are my nightmare, sours make my eyes roll into my head and stouts pull my stomach out through my toes. But I’m trying; I want to see what it’s like on the other side.

I want to put my classically trained palette to good use, appreciate the hard work and love brewers put into their products.

Hence, in the name of forward momentum, in mid-January, I embarked on a crash course by drinking every beer on the wall at Belmont Village’s Arabella Park (all 18 of them) in one go! Bear in mind that these reviews are coming from someone who just admitted to not being that knowledgeable about beer, and shouldn’t be taken personally. These are the results:

KINGPOST ESB FROM THE COLLINGWOOD BREWERY I Google ESB before taking my first sip. Extra. Special. Bitter. Ugh. It isn’t crazy bitter, kind of grassy but leaves the back of my tongue feeling like I just pierced and sanitized it with a tequila shot. That’s harsh ... It keeps getting more bitter.

My tummy hurts.

HARRY PORTER AND THE CHERRY HOARDER FROM GREAT LAKES BREWERY My buddy Marc (PRINCESS MARC) would say this tastes like the dreamiest Black Forest cake your grandma made on your birthday. I think it’s more like 10 percent cream with some vinegar in it. Not in a bad curdled way — sort of like drunk buttermilk? I wouldn’t order again, but wouldn’t be angry if Marc wanted me to finish his half drank pint.

(This is when the kimchi fries we ordered came and saved my belly from the aches. But also the sides of my tongue are burning like I licked a battery. I’m painfully aware of the appendage in ways I never knew possible.) ** Special Note: I skipped numbers 3-5 on the wall: Baltic Porter aged in red wine barrels from Innocente, Stone City’s Slow Moves barrel aged

sour stout and Little Beasts’ New Radio American stout. I couldn’t do it on account of fear of death by immense beers.

CLEAN SLATE BRETT SAISON FROM BENCH It smells like Grandma’s basement bathtub beer, the one she accidentally spilled Mr. Clean into (other people’s grandmas do that, right?).

Contrary to that, it tastes like I’m floating on cotton candy clouds.

My stout related woes are a thing of the past. This, my friends, is a patio sipper. I give this beer eight bars of soap in children’s mouths out of 10.

PANACHE DIPA FROM STROM STAYED This is my nightmare. It smells like Freddy and tastes like Jason. I’m being chased through a forest of hops by a machete wielding murderer.

I think I’ve escaped, when all of a sudden, the double hopped monster jumps out from behind a tree (do hops grow on trees?) and smothers me. Two Halloween marathons out of 10.

SHUMEI IPA FROM BLOOD BROTHERS Pretty similar to the nightmare beer, just a whole lot sweatier — like

Freddy just ran a half marathon through the rainforest. This is what those in the know might call “juicy.”

It hurts my stomach deep down.

That being said, it’s a really well balanced hurt. I need an antacid.

BLOOD ORANGE SHAPESHIFTER

BY HALO This beer is thick-like-a-milkshakeorange-juice with EXTRA pulp mixed with strawberry milk made with red wine. Five boys brought to my yard out of 10. Am I drunk yet?

LA SOTTISE BY DUNHAM Kind of smells like ammonia, which is a fancy way of saying this beer smells like pee. I tried to chug it and get it over with quickly, but it tastes like unripe jackfruit. That could be good, but also very very bad. **Special Note: I thought I drank number 11, which would be the next beer on the wall, but apparently missed it in my compromised state.

FOEDER FERMENTED GRISETTE FROM BELLWOODS I only had a sip from a helpful friend, but I think I’m becoming a snob. It’s pretty yummy but why not just have a Bud Light and save yourself the $8? **Special Note: Thought I drank

Community Environmental Improvement Grant Think locally, act locally with a grant up to

$3,000.

Got an idea? Apply today! www.kitchener.ca/CEIG Application deadline is Friday, Feb. 22, 2019.

the next one, which would be number 13, but I guess I didn’t. OOPS. FORGOT THE NAME OF THIS ONE Full disclosure: I had had a couple of wobbly pops by this point. I did in fact drink this beer but didn’t write down the name. In its place here are my unaltered tasting notes: pine raddler, so yummy, so mouthfeel, looks like a nightmare that I’d tell people looks delicious. Don’t judge a beer book by its hazcover.

GOKUROSAMA FROM GODSPEED BREWERY Smells like soft and delicious cinnamon donuts — donut hate it. I give this beer seven St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market trips out of 10.

That leaves us at the last beer, number 18, which I don’t remember if I even ordered or not. I didn’t make it to the end, didn’t run the proverbial park, but I did drink a lot of beer. So there’s that.

**Special Note: James was drinking sample sizes of beer, not full pints. His level of intoxication was exaggerated for the sake of comedy.

Please drink responsibly.

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

7

WISE MINDS THINK ALIKE THE CONCEPT OF “WISE MIND” IS ALL ABOUT ENGAGING THE HEAD AND THE HEART, AS WELL AS CHALLENGING DICHOTOMIES

OPINION

NICOLE SCHIENER CONTRIBUTOR

JENNIFER LYON PHOTO

M I D W I V E S : FIGHTING FOR LEGITIMACY

SEXPLANATIONS STACEY JACOBS COLUMNIST MICHELINE MOONEY CONTRIBUTOR

While Valentine’s Day may be on your mind this month, what is on our minds is the state of the uterus and how we treat people who have them.

Midwives, including Aboriginal Midwives, are health-care professionals who provide fullyfunded, expert primary care to pregnant people and their newborns.

Throughout pregnancy, labour, birth and the first six weeks postpartum, clients are cared for by a small group of midwives.

This continuity of care means you have the opportunity to build an on-going and trusted relationship with the midwife who will be there when you give birth. Something that can make all the difference to people going through an extremely intense physical, emotional and transformational life experience.

Midwives have become so popular that folks are urged to “Call the Midwife” as they pee on the pregnancy test to ensure a spot in their case load, as there are currently not enough midwives for the demand in Ontario. Midwifery clients self-refer, are offered choice of birthplace and are supported through either medicated or unmedicated birth. Care is transferred to an Obstetrician only if there are concerns or complications.

There are approximately 900 midwives in Ontario, serving 77 communities in 90 clinics across the province. Approximately 17 per cent of births in Ontario in 2018 were attended by a midwife. Since midwifery became a regulated health profession in 1994, more than 225,000 babies have been born under midwifery care.

The vast majority of midwives are female identified, caring for people who are female identified — making midwifery an under-valued profession.

After years of fighting, this past September the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario ruled in favour of midwives and ordered the government to close the pay equity gap.

Not only is the government refusing to come to the table to negotiate a fair rate of pay to alleviate this gender discrimination, in December 2018 the government revoked current and future funding for the College of Midwives of Ontario, the regulatory body that oversees more than 900 midwives and has had government support for 25 years.

The regulation of female bodies and sexuality is not new; keeping women “in their place” has been seen historically over and over when people in power felt insecure about the amount of freedom women were obtaining. Because midwives are compassionate, nonjudgmental, client focused, trained professionals working within the field of reproductive health, they can be seen as a threat.

We disagree.

We must learn to trust people to make decisions about their own bodies. We must learn to trust and respect professions which prioritize choice and options for their clients.

We must listen and give people the space to make the best decisions for themselves. So we strongly demand, GTFO of my uterus and let midwives do the work they were trained to do with the respect they deserve. Heart a uterus, or someone who has one this month.

Micheline Mooney is a midwifery student at Ryerson University and Stacey Jacobs is the sexual health educational manager at SHORE.

One of the exercises used in our agency’s Partner Assault Response (PAR) program and in educational programs by the Male Allies, is called “Act Like a Man Box.” Designed by author and activist Paul Kivel and popularized by male feminist Tony Porter, it invites participants to identify what is acceptable and expected of men.

We include a contrasting “Act Like a Lady Box” and discuss the consequences to each gender for stepping outside of the boxes.

Despite how far we’ve come, one of the distinctions almost always made is men are more rational while women are more emotional.

And historically, society has favoured the former.

But, there are positive and negative qualities associated with each, and either in their extreme can be harmful. While our rational minds can assist us in decision making and problem solving, if we are not connected with our feelings and

the feelings of others, we can make decisions that have devastating impacts on others and ultimately on ourselves. As Brene Brown writes in Dare to Lead: “when we become disembodied from our emotions to the point that we literally don’t recognize which physical feelings are connected to emotional feelings, we don’t gain control, we lose it.”

Many of the men I interviewed for the men’s group would talk about how they ignored, stuffed or pushed through their feelings of distress or upset. I have no doubt this unhealthy coping contributed to their use of abuse along with beliefs that promote male superiority.

But reacting from a purely emotional place is not the ideal either. When we make decisions based only on feelings, we often haven’t taken the time to check all the facts and weigh the consequences of our actions. There have been times when I’ve gotten fired up about something I’m passionate about, only to discover there’s more to the story and other perspectives that I haven’t taken into consideration. Reacting from pure emotion, especially fear, triggers defensiveness in others and disconnection.

Moving forward, we need to remember these boxes are socially constructed without any

consideration for the complexity of being human and what is required to live in harmony with one another.

What if we could see the value in combining both? What if we could learn from one another instead of competing with one another? What if we could bust out of the boxes?

I was introduced to the concept “wise mind” at a recent training on Dialectical Behavioural Therapy.

“Wise mind,” or using Brene Brown’s language “wholeheartedness,” is about integrating our emotional side and our rational or thinking side.

Wise mind is about pausing and engaging the head and the heart as we interact with one another. It is about tuning into our body and recognizing our emotions have useful information to offer us. It requires us to stay open to others’ perspectives. It is about reflecting on the impact of our actions and the needs of the collective rather than making decisions based purely on economics or what logically makes sense. Being wise means learning to listen, ask questions and not get stuck in dichotomies like right or wrong or me versus you.

Nicole Schiener is a registered psychotherapist in Cambridge at the Family Counselling Centre of Cambridge and North Dumfries.

“Cold War is a film to watch again and again.”

-Peter Howell, Toronto Star 3 Oscar Nominations!

Best Foreign Language Film Cinematography & Best Director

PRESENTS

OPENING FEBRUARY 22ND

n o i g e R o lo r e t a W

^

tiny little love stories INTRODUCTION BY BETH BOWLES

The other day, my partner and I were driving through my neighbourhood, Mount Hope. This little suburb is the link that connects downtown Kitchener to uptown Waterloo; while the streets are lined with well-kept century homes, Mount Hope’s most well known protagonist is the Mount Hope Cemetery on Moore Avenue. A space that welcomes dog-walkers and acts as a home to several squirrels.

“I love my neighbourhood,” I cooed, watching the houses pass from the car window.

“It does have a lot of mature trees and nice architecture,” he replied, a smug smile spreading across his face. This comment was a cute inside joke, a private secret that he and I share.

Several months earlier, when we had our first conversation on Tinder, he asked me where in Kitchener I lived. I told him I was close to the Google building — specific enough to determine our proximity, yet vague enough to protect me from potential axe murderers on a dating app.

Our conversation ran into the next

“

day — once again, it was vague, the type of initial conversation you have on those apps. I asked him what he was doing that afternoon and he said he was going to take his dog for a walk.

“I was thinking of walking her by the Google building,” he wrote.

This comment was obviously suggestive; it was an invite without the directness of an actual invite. I laughed at his shyness, yet admired his direct “indirectness.”

“That’s a nice area,” I responded, ignoring the obvious. “I hear it has a lot of mature trees and nice architecture.”

My “joke” — if that’s what it was — went over well. About an hour later, I met him in the Google parking lot to join him as he walked his dog. Mount Hope became a sort of character in our first date (as did his dog) and it actually challenged my perception of a concrete parking lot. It was in that parking lot that we met, my hands nervously shaking as he watched me walk towards him, unaware of the impact we’d both have on each other.

So if a neighbourhood and a parking lot can contribute to this

WE WERE VISITING TOWN FOR THE SECOND TIME. OUTSIDE THE PRINCESS CINEMA IN 2004, I CRIED IN HIS CAR. THE MOVIE HAD FELT TOO REAL. IT WAS SILENT, AND MY NERVES GREW. I FOCUSED ON THE LITTLE STREAMS OF WATER TRICKLING DOWN HIS WINDSHIELD AS THE RAIN GREW HEAVIER. HE SAID MY NAME, NERVOUSLY, STUMBLED OVER IT LIKE HE HADN’T MEANT TO FALL AND NEEDED MY NAME TO STEADY HIMSELF. I LOVE YOU. I LOVE YOU TOO. 14 YEARS HAVE GONE BY, AND WE HAVE PLANTED ROOTS HERE WITH OUR DAUGHTER. IT FEELS LIKE HOME THE MOST WHEN IT RAINS. - LAURA

We first met at the KW Humane Society. As I leaned against the glass I whispered, “You are magnificent.”

I knew this to be true. I didn’t know was that I was staring directly at my new family member who would change our lives. We were beyond lucky to have met you, to have stumbled across you, and even more lucky to be the ones to love you — and for you to love us back. Adopt don’t shop. Adopt senior pets.

- Cat Lady

anecdote that we both hold so close to our hearts, what other stories linger in unsuspecting places in Waterloo Region?

I’ve been following The New York Times’ Modern Love column for some time, and due to the vast volume of submissions, they recently launched Tiny Love Stories — a space for readers to submit their love stories in 100 words or less. Shamelessly, I copied the idea, asking you, residents and visitors of Waterloo Region, to share with the Community Edition your love stories, using Waterloo Region as a backdrop.

The rules were simple: your tiny love story must take place somewhere in Waterloo Region, it cannot be more than 100 words, you can sign off using your real name, or choose to be anonymous, stories told in first person are best and we weren’t going to publish all of them, only the ones that we thought best fit our vision.

Thank you for trusting us with the intimacy and intricacies of your private love stories.

This was the response.

As I sat in Arabella Park, contemplating my next beer order, I asked him what he wanted, expecting the answer to be one of the various drinks on tap. In a moment layered in boldness and vulnerability, he looked up to me over his empty glass and said “Just to kiss you.” I smiled, finished the remainder of my drink and said “I’ve been waiting years for you to say that.”

- Anonymous

”

“

“

I was never one for all the bravado (brovado) of the gym. However the downtown Goodlife, before it closed at the end of the year, was a beautiful mix of non-assuming diversity. This place became a cornerstone of my mental health regime — regularly working out with two close friends — and contemplating life in the sauna.

I’m blessed with a wonderful circle of genuine, caring friends.

- Anonymous

Snow is glistening onto the smooth ice rink at Carl Zehr Square. We find ourselves admiring the busy streets and city lights surrounding us. Our blades hit the ice, hand-in-hand, we share giggles of nervous excitement through a fresh, new activity shared together. “Don’t fall!” He says to me as I look up at him and forget the cold shivers in my legs. Instead I’m full of the warm love he emits into my world and in that moment, I wish I could freeze time.

- Marwah Hammoud

I met one of my best friends in the alley beside the Jane Bond. A mutual friend had put us on each other’s radar, but then one night when I was walking from the Original Princess to the Princess Twin this guy called out to me from the dark. I went over, said hi, and we’ve been friends ever since. We’d go on to publish numerous issues of a zine together, go on trips, and be in each other’s weddings, but it all goes back to that dark little alley.

- Jon Johnson

I MET YOU ONLINE. IT DIDN’T MATTER TO YOU THAT WE LIVED 108.2 MILES (YOU) OR 174.1 KILOMETERS (ME) AWAY FROM EACH OTHER. I WASN’T SO CONVINCED, BUT I AGREED TO KEEP CHATTING UNTIL YOUR “GOOD MORNING, SUNSHINE” AND “GOOD NIGHT, SWEET PEA” TEXTS BECAME THE BEST PART OF MY EVERY DAY. ONE DAY YOU SUGGESTED MAKING THE TWO HOUR DRIVE FROM BUFFALO, NEW YORK TO WATERLOO, ONTARIO TO MEET, LUNCH, NO PRESSURE. BUT I ALREADY KNEW WHEN YOU SHOWED UP AT MY DOOR ALL SHY WITH COFFEE STAINED JEANS THAT I’D NEVER WANT YOU TO LEAVE AGAIN. - ANNA FLEET

I FELL IN LOVE WITH A BOLD ‘N’ BRILLIANT WOMAN WHILE AWAY IN UNIVERSITY BUT COULDN’T BE OPEN ABOUT IT WHILE HERE IN MY HOMETOWN. AFTER A LENGTHY AND COMPLICATED EXPERIENCE COMING OUT, I WILL NEVER FORGET THE FIRST TIME WE WERE PUBLICLY OUT AS A COUPLE IN KW. IT WAS AT OKTOBERFEST A FEW YEARS AGO, SURROUNDED BY GERMAN OOMPAH-PAHS AND SCHNITZEL, THAT WE DANCED AND HELD HANDS. EVEN THOUGH WE WERE LEERED AT WHEN WE KISSED, I FELT BRAVE. WE FOUGHT FOR THAT NIGHT — A CELEBRATORY NIGHT FILLED WITH OUR PROFOUND, SIMPLE, QUEER LOVE. - KAY

”

”

It was a class at Laurier that I was dreading, it ran at night and wasn’t easy to follow. By the second class I knew it was going to be tough, but then he walked in. He didn’t notice me at first but needed to borrow someone’s notes for the class he missed. I was happy to help. On the third class we both showed up early for a chance to chat. It is over 30 years later and I still have those notes, and the guy!

- Sandra Wilson

“

I FELL IN LOVE OVER DOUBLE BAKED ANTOJITOS AND PITCHERS OF MILL STREET ORGANIC, UNDER DIM LIGHTS WITH THE CONSTANT HUM OF CONVERSATION FILLING THE ROOM. I FOUND A FAMILY AT ETHEL’S, THAT FAMILY WAS MAKING A NEWSPAPER, THAT NEWSPAPER WAS THE COMMUNITY EDITION. CAN YOU LOVE A NEWSPAPER? I THINK SO. I EVEN THINK, IT MAY HAVE LOVED ME BACK. - MEGAN

”

On the dock, you kissed me, Laurel Conservation Area the backdrop of this first date. There was laughter, and two grins: you and I, becoming us. We almost splintered in another park; I forget the name, as you drove.

I remember feeling cold as the streets rolled by. On the rocks, you begged for forgiveness. I provided it. Now, I look back and wonder if I should regret such. For, in Belmont Village, I learned of your misdeeds.

Harm you’d provided to others, not love but lust — this city where we were built, in it, now the ashes burn.

- Anonymous

Missed opportunities, or was it in my head? That’s the problem with cute strangers: if you don’t speak up, you might never see them again. A few years ago, you worked at Games on Tap. I attended university outside town, yet was there with friends.

Cards against Humanity was what we mostly played, two of us not into games. But, it was my birthday. What I said went; had I asked for your number, would you have said yes?

Cashing out, you asked if I was from town. I had to say no. But, if you remember — I’m here now.

- Anonymous

“ Falling in love in Waterloo is great. Falling out of love, not so much. While “our” favourite spaces are still my favourite spaces, they feel a little different now. Taco Tuesday isn’t the same, nor are the delicious sandwiches at Vincenzo’s (ok, they’re still delicious, but they seemed better when shared in your company). The Saturday market isn’t as exciting for one, and neither is a movie at The Princess (although my own popcorn is GREAT), and I can’t imagine Waterloo Park as anything other than “our spot”. I’m trying to fall back in love with my favourite places without you, but it’s hard when we made them “ours.”

- Anonymous

“

We met working at summer camp, I loved everything about him from the very beginning. Through the years we explored ourselves and the boundaries of our friendship talking endlessly, easy dates for the mutual friend wedding circuit, hazy life celebrations in my Kaufman Loft. Then randomly he met her.

He introduced us and her eyes knowingly told me to back away. I wanted him to see me that clearly.

I cried through the engagement and C list wedding invite. Now they have two kids and I have a different version of myself. I don’t bother texting happy birthday anymore.

- Lost him to a woman whose name has one letter difference

I MOVED TO KITCHENER FOR A GUY. A GUY WHO SHORTLY AFTER MY MOVE, DUMPED ME TO GO TRAVEL AND “FIND HIMSELF” IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY. I PROMISED MYSELF I WOULDN’T BE HERE WHEN HE CAME BACK — BUT ALMOST SEVEN MONTHS LATER AND I’M STILL HERE. I FELL OUT OF LOVE WITH HIM BUT FOUND MYSELF FALLING IN LOVE WITH HIS CITY. -T

”

Classic server/cook relationship.

He was a dishwasher and I was a server at Sole Restaurant & Wine Bar. We were both finishing up our degrees at UW and I remember when he got promoted from dishwasher to garde manger and he turned his backwards ball cap to the front with a crooked grin because he was in the “big leagues now.”

That was 12 years ago. One wedding, two careers, two little boys, one Kitchener mortgage, and over a decade of laughter later, he is still the light of my life and even now rocking a backwards ball cap and making me the best damn salads ever.

- Anonymous

We both worked at the Gateway Chapters (RIP), and she asked me to see a movie. I wanted to hold her hand, but since I was moving away in a couple weeks, I weirdly just pinched her arm instead. While I was away, we texted and Skyped nonstop, and as soon as I came back we started dating. Less than a year later we were married, and now six years and lots of adventures later, we have a beautiful one-year-old daughter, a growing collection of books, and just the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories.

- Anonymous

IN A TINY HOSPITAL ROOM IN GRAND RIVER OUR LIVES WOULD BE FOREVER CHANGED

BY YOU, AND WHILE WE WELCOMED YOU AND LOST YOU ALL IN THE SAME BREATH, OUR LOVE FOR YOU IS THE ONLY THING THAT KEEPS US HERE. MOST NIGHTS WE TAKE TO THE STREETS, DRIVING FOR HOURS, WONDERING WHAT IT WOULD BE LIKE TO HAVE RAISED YOU IN THIS CITY, THE CITY WE FEEL YOU IN EVERYDAY. LOVE ISN’T ALWAYS BUTTERFLIES AND DUSTY ROSE CHEEKS, SOMETIMES ITS PURE AGONY, BUT TO HAVE KNOWN YOU FOR A MINUTE MAKES IT WORTH IT. - SKY RANDALL, JULIA’S MOM

”

I had visited Waterloo just prior to moving here and decided to give the abysmal, soul-sucking world of Tinder one last try. (I was bitter, okay?) You know when you’re furiously swiping left, crediting yourself with the ability to judge a person’s character on first impressions? By some miracle I didn’t swipe past her. I did drive past her CLV residence just hours before we matched. We fell in love in texts, audio clips, phone calls, in Waterloo.

Maya Angelou once said: “Have courage to trust Tinder one more time and always one more time.” Or … something like that.

- Rebecca A

Her smile reminds of the night we met. We visited seemingly every bar uptown. We didn’t want the night to end.

The corner of King and University will always remind me of the night we spontaneously made our first promises to one another.

The drive towards Breslau on Victoria reminds me of the day we spent playing laser tag. We had the place to ourselves and we kept breaking the rules to kiss one another.

Every morning waking next to her, I am reminded of how lucky I am that she loves me.

- Nicolas

Jogging the West Side trail, swirling leaves darted around my ankles, as I kept up my pace. Suddenly the breeze lifted the leaves. A flash caught my eye, revealing a woman’s mitten and a car key. I halted. The key hung precariously from a mitten string. Darkness was descending and the air was getting colder. Grabbing them, I ran back to the parking area.

There she was, her soulful eyes frantically searching left and right.

“Is this your key, I asked?” Her gratitude and smile were immediate.

She bought me coffee and we’ve been jogging ever since.

- Anonymous

Even though we share a bed and fridge and forlorn greetings when I return home from school, I know that he is the one you love now. You have to do what feels right, and I hope you get all the beautiful things you deserve. I am forever grateful for the two years we shared together in Waterloo. And for the moment on the roller coaster that night when we arrived at the high point just before the first drop, when nothing else mattered and you were staring back just as scared as I was. The entire night sky lit up for us that evening.

- James G

She was the start of everything beautiful. It was late when her hand reached for mine as we drove down King Street. This town in which I grew up — irrecoverably dull until she came along — slowly, intricately seemed to bloom; making everything a little more lovely. Falling in love with her felt easy, the way seasons change — a pleasant surprise and the most familiar stranger. The way the leaves are green one day and the next, you’re surrounded by clouds of orange — her favourite colour, she tells me, as we speed by the new fixtures of lights lining the street.

- Anonymous

When my good friend (former TCE-EIC) Megan Norse told me that I came up in a conversation with someone she ran into that day I was obviously intrigued.

“A friend of mine said that you two were talking on Tinder and you unmatched her.”

My face went bright red. I typed her name into the search bar on my computer and I realized that she had mistaken me for someone else. I hadn’t been having luck with dating since moving to Waterloo, despite the popularity of apps like Tinder and Bumble in the Region, but I was feeling confident and I decided to send her a message.

A month later we met at Victoria Park. The Joseph Street entrance.

- Kurtis Rideout aka Mr Hella Creatively Silenced by ur wack 100 word count

DON’T SEE YOUR TINY LOVE STORY HERE? CHECK ONLINE COMMUNITYEDITION.CA FOR ALL SUBMISSIONS

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

10

RETHINKING TRADITIONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS

EASY BEING GREEN

STACEY DANCKERT COLUMNIST Some of you may want to close your eyes and cover your ears, because this month I am writing about feminine hygiene products.

There are number of reasons why this topic is important. Stigma aside, feminine hygiene products produce a lot of waste.

Women use upwards of 11,000 pads and tampons throughout their life, amounting to about 200,000 tons of waste (including packaging) in the US alone. Surprisingly, pads are 90 per cent plastic, which takes lifetimes to break down.

Besides the huge amount of waste and other environmental consequences resulting from their use, creating the products also comes with substantial environmental costs. By using cotton, which has a significant impact including pesticide and fertilizer use, as well as water, we end up with environmental destruction or degradation, as a result.

What hygiene products you use is a deeply personal decision, and since our society has already added pressure and opinions of what is right and wrong in this context, I

don’t want to add any extra guilt or stigma to the decisions you make about how you approach your periods. But, I will share some more options if you do want to make some changes.

The easiest change for you to make might be just to switch to organic products with biodegradable packaging — although they still often contain some plastic. While the issue of disposal isn’t altogether dealt with, and there are still environmental costs in producing them, at least the process will add fewer dyes, harsh chemicals, fertilizers and pesticides to the environment.

Alternatively, you could try one of the reusable options available such as a silicone cup. These cups can be used to replace (and improve upon) tampons. This zero waste reusable option is worn internally for up to 12 hours with no known associated risks and can be used for any flow levels. This is probably the most cost effective solution available too, since they can last for years.

Another great option is reusable cloth. Believe me, these are not your grandmother’s cloth rags!

Despite their reputation, the modern iteration has truly improved.

They’re made with soft fabrics, absorbent inner materials and are leak resistant. There are so many options, including more sustainable materials, a variety of shapes, sizes and patterns. There are some commercially available brands, but you can also find them on Etsy

Women use upwards of 11,000 pads and tampons throughout their life — about 200,000 tons of waste.

LINDSAY TOTZKE PHOTO

and other sites, where they are often made locally, so you are also supporting the local economy.

Even if you consider the water used to wash them, they are far more sustainable, in addition to being more comfortable than their disposable counterparts. I assure you that they can easily be transferred from storage bag to washing

machine, so washing them is also simple.

Besides feeling good about the environmental outcomes of my choices, for me, choosing reusable items also makes me feel like I have more autonomy over my body and frees me from the monthly costs of using products from large corporations. They can even be a

bit of a hidden accessory and will certainly have cost savings over time compared to the stiff, scratchy, plain disposables.

Stacey Danckert is co-director of Waterloo Region Environment Network (WREN).

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING WITH US? EMAIL ADS@WLUSP.COM FOR PRICING. PRINT ADS WORK. SEE? YOU’RE READING THIS RIGHT NOW.

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

11

REGIONAL PARAMEDICS WILL SOON ADMINISTER

FENTANYL AND KETAMINE

BRIAN DOUGLAS PHOTO

JORDAN SNOBELEN CONTRIBUTOR Fading from memory, the hero ambulance drivers featured in the 1970’s TV-show Emergency, have been replaced by health-care professionals with an ever-evolving scope of practise. Coming this year, more powerful and effective drugs will allow advanced care paramedics to further remedy the ills of the sick before reaching a hospital.

After recommendations from the Ontario Base Hospital Group’s medical advisory committee, the Ministry of Health approved the use of fentanyl and ketamine for paramedic use last year. The group of eight “base hospitals” spread across the province serves as the regulatory body for most of Ontario’s 8,000 paramedics, and also advises the ministry.

While both drugs are optional for emergency medical services, deputy chief Rob Crossan of Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services confirmed in a phone interview, that the service is “fully supportive and recognizes the need” for adding both fentanyl and ketamine to the vast repertoire of advanced care drugs available to local paramedics.

FENTANYL’S WELCOME RETURN Relentless media coverage has tainted fentanyl as the notorious killer responsible for overdose problems facing the Region. While uncontrolled use of the drug — up to 100-times more potent than morphine in amounts as small as a microgram — has lead to catastrophic problems, fentanyl has been used to treat pain in the hospital setting for decades.

Dr. Michelle Welsford, an emergency physician and the medical director at the Hamilton Health Sciences Centre for Paramedic Education and Research, said the use of the powerful, short-

acting opioid by paramedics is restricted to “just a few doses for severe pain following a serious injury.”

In such cases, she says the risk for addiction often associated with opioids is “exceedingly low.”

Around eight years ago, fentanyl was taken away from paramedics in a decision based on medical research showing that, for pain treatment, it was on par with morphine — a drug paramedics already had.

“

THE USE OF FENTANYL HAS BEEN SHOWN TO HAVE A SHORTER ONSET OF PAIN RELIEF ...

”

-ROB CROSSMAN, DEPUTY CHIEF OF REGION OF WATERLOO PARAMEDIC SERVICES Now the pendulum of research has swung back in favour of fentanyl, bringing about a welcome return for paramedics.

“The use of fentanyl has been shown to have a shorter onset of pain relief and in a recent study was shown to have fewer side effects compared to morphine,” Crossan said in an email.

Fentanyl will be available to local paramedics by the end of this month, according to Crossan, who also worked as an advanced care paramedic for 15 years before moving into his position as deputy chief. He said if given the option between administering morphine or fentanyl, he’d opt for the latter, nine out of ten times.

EXCITED DELIRIUM HIGHLIGHT NEED FOR KETAMINE SEDATIVE Ketamine gained a reputation as a party drug during the late ‘70s and moved up in popularity throughout the next several decades. Its

origins in veterinary medicine as a tranquillizer evolved after testing on humans and its approval for medical use by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 1970.

Abused for its dissociative effects, the drug prevents the brain from properly interpreting stimuli from surroundings and gives users a feeling of being disconnected from their body and understanding of self.

Out of the party scene and into the hospital setting, ketamine is used occasionally as an anesthetic in minor surgical procedures for its benefits of sedation, pain relief and short-term memory loss.

New for paramedics, the local rollout of ketamine has been prolonged as the service considers how to store the large vials it comes in, though Crossan is confident it will happen this year, and potentially as soon as the summertime.

Ketamine can be given by paramedics after receiving the goahead from a physician and only for patients who are combative — mainly those presenting with signs of excited delirium.

Excited delirium is a lifethreatening condition thought to result from an extreme overabundance in the brain of the “feel good” neurotransmitter/ hormone: dopamine. The condition accelerates the body’s metabolic rate and starts a chain-reaction, which can lead to death if not stopped. But treating a patient becomes impossible if the back of an ambulance turns into a boxing ring.

Crossan said the Region has been seeing “way more [episodes of excited delirium] than we saw five or six years ago.”

It’s a trend he attributes to an apparent rise in crystal meth and cocaine use in the Region, resulting from users trying to avoid other drugs.

Jeff Bilyk, an advanced care paramedic and media relations for the Waterloo Region Association of Professional Paramedics, said he’s looking forward to having a “stronger” and “more reliable” sedative as an answer to excited

delirium. Region paramedics only have a drug called midazolam, which takes longer to have an effect, at times requiring multiple doses and several injections to do the job.

“Fighting and struggling with a patient on the way to a hospital is not doing the job of a paramedic, which is to treat the underlying issue,” Bilyk said.

Luke McCann is the president of CUPE 5191, the union that represents local paramedics. Also an advanced care paramedic, McCann said patients in a state of excited delirium are often unpredictable, unaware of their actions, unable to feel pain and possess “super human strength.” All of which expose first responders to harm, and prevent paramedics from providing help.

Police play an essential role in assisting paramedics by physically restraining a combative patient until a sedative can be administered.

But McCann voiced concern about police understaffing. “We hope police come, but the common response is nobody is available,” he said.

If approved by Regional Council, this year’s police operating budget would allow the hiring of 47 new officers to address understaffing issues.

Giving insight into how much local paramedics could be using ketamine, Crossan said the Region averages 30 midazolam administrations a month, with about half due to behavioural issues like excited delirium.

Both fentanyl and ketamine are used by paramedics with varying education and restrictions in the United States and Australia, with the latter surpassing Ontario’s scope, allowing the widest range of use with the least restrictions.

12

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

TELLING YOUR STORY BY TAKING A PHOTO

KW-BASED ARTIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER, OLIVIA WITZKE, NOT ONLY “SHOOTS” FOR AUTHENTICITY — SHE’LL ALSO PAINT YOUR PETS!

NICK STANLEY PHOTO

MELISSA EMBURY CONTRIBUTOR Local photographer and artist Olivia Witzke is starting to come into her own with her wedding photography business, but that’s not where it ends.

She also recently discovered her talent as an artist and started “facesbyolivia” on Instagram, painting custom portraits of faces of friends, celebrities and pets on the side.

Making it as a successful businesswoman in the world of wedding photographers is a tough challenge and a long road. She’s been shooting professionally since 2011, focusing on everything from weddings to fashion editorials and classic portraits.

“I’ve had the privilege of shooting all around the globe from Chicago, to the Caribbean, and as far as Australia,” Witzke said.

Today, wedding photographers work within a fast-growing, highly competitive, dynamic industry, striving to portray their clients’ wedding days in their own unique style.

For Witzke, photography is her main passion and it has steadily become her full-time business, yet the journey to being able to completely rely on it without any side jobs took some time and hard work.

After attending college, Witzke

started out by assisting other wedding photographers and learning hands-on.

“I just wanted to go out and do things because I learned by doing ... I learned everything from them” Witzke said.

Becoming a full-time wedding photographer takes hard work and perseverance to get that much-needed experience under your belt when starting out. Long days of shooting and physical stamina are required.

Since then, she has been featured in Vogue Italia, book covers, magazines, and even worked with Disney.

“I actually only started doing art and photography full-time without a side job for around a year and a half now.

I always had something small — very part-time on the side” Witzke said.

At this point, Witzke takes limited bookings per month to ensure her clients are properly taken care of. This way, she is able to provide clients with a quality experience from prompt communication, consultation, to posing direction, image editing and consistency.

“I only take on about a maximum of 10 weddings [per year] on my own now,” she said.

Being a woman in the creative industry can be highly competitive, especially now with Instagram and social media running rampant in our day-to-day lives. The pressure to find her own vision and style along the way has been a struggle.

“There are so many talented people.

It’s so hard to not be thinking, oh, well should I be doing that? It’s so hard to keep your eyes straight and focus on your own path,” she said.

When asked how she stays focused on her vision for the company and keeps authentic to her own brand and vision, Witzke said it’s an ongoing battle.

“You are always going to compare yourself to others. I don’t know what exactly happened. Over the last year or so, I’ve just found a confidence in myself. I just used to care a lot more [about other people’s opinions] and now I do what I love. So I have it the way I want it and it’s perfect for me,” she said.

Her side project “facesbyolivia” was an unexpected venture after a coworker asked her to do a joke painting of Mike Tyson and it turned out really well.

“That was kind of funny,” Witzke said, “but it wasn’t intentional.”

After that, a friend asked her to do three different paid portraits.

“It kind of started from there,” Witzke said, “which is awesome. To have people like that around you that are very supportive.”

Her custom painted portraits of pets and humans are now available by commission through her Instagram @ facesbyolivia.

Having a balanced life as a wedding photographer and artist can be tricky, but the support of her friends, family and local community has been key to Witzke’s success.

“My goal is to capture where you are now in a beautiful way so that you too can look back and revisit those special times for years to come. For me, it’s not just about ‘taking a photo’ but about telling your story.”

NICK STANLEY PHOTO

ABE ERB EXPANDS TO BREATHE NEW AYR VANDA FRAK CONTRIBUTOR Abe Erb at the Mill opened its doors during the week of Jan. 15 at 143 Northumberland St. in Ayr. Located near the Nith River, by the railroad tracks, the Settlement Coffee Co. and Abe Erb Brewery hybrid space gave new life to the old feed mill, transforming it into an environment where the intertwine of coffee and beer exists under one roof.

“We started thinking about this location once the LRT construction in Kitchener and Waterloo was completed. We went back to the roots of our branding and asked ourselves

what we did best. The answer was simple: serving our local community.

Instead of expanding into Toronto and the GTA, we’re staying in our own backyard,” said Rob Theodosiou, owner of both Abe Erb Brewery and Settlement Coffee Co. The process and planning for the Abe Erb Mill began in April of 2018, the lease was signed in June and construction began in September.

Ayr was a natural next step in their growth and expansion, as the city has seen major growth in the past few years, attracting young families and the 30-45 year old demographic to the area. What Ayr lacks, however, is amenities.

“Everyone living in Ayr is currently going to Paris, since there are so many restaurants there. They are funnelling people from every nearby community.

We’re hoping to give people living in

Paris a reason to come to Ayr,” said Theodosiou.

Drawing inspiration from the West Coast, the Abe Erb Mill space features a soft modern atmosphere with blonde wood flooring, a white roof and leather upholstered chairs and booths.

The space will also feature a mural on the back wall and the brew equipment as the central focus. There is a giant stairwell going down to the basement, which will feature an event space that will open up later on this summer.

Outside, there is a large covered patio as well as a private parking lot.

The Ayr location features unique perks that will not be available at either the Kitchener or Waterloo location, such as two beers that will be crafted on site — one brown ale and one lager, named after historical people or the background of the community. Another exclusive perk is

the Mill Membership Community.

“This is Abe Erb’s first membership program designed to bring good beer, good food, and great friends together.

We only have 100 spots available, and we sold out 60 memberships in the first weekend we released it,” explained Theodosiou.

The Mill Membership Community, valued at $225, provides members with exclusive discounts on food and drinks, a custom mug, first access to event tickets, the ability to renew after one year, and more.

While the Abe Erb Mill location will still serve 60 per cent of the Kitchener-Waterloo food menu, there are some unique items that will only be available at the Ayr location.

“We have a two door pizza oven available to us in this space, so we will be serving pizza, as well as more baked goods like muffins, breads and

granolas,” explained Theodosiou. “On Sundays, we will be offering brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. a la carte as well as buffet style.”

Since the local community is made up primarily of families, from Monday to Wednesday, kids’ meals are free of charge.

Plans for the future include the opening of a new Settlement location on the ground level of Northfield Park, serving its 1500 staff members, the week of Feb. 11. The location will operate from Monday to Friday and users will be able to pre-order and pay on their mobile devices and pick up their order at the physical location.

Later this fall, Abe Erb will be opening in Guelph at the Guelph Junctionary. Abe Erb Junction will begin construction late April, in the hopes to open late August or early Fall.

13

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

GETTING OUTSIDE

IN A WATERLOO REGION WINTER

HYPERLOCAL TRAVEL

JUANITA METZGER CONTRIBUTOR “How did I not know this trail existed?” my friend Laurie wondered.

In one small step, the GeoTime Trail in west Waterloo catapulted us from the Hadean eon into the Archean eon. In our quest to soak up a drop of vitamin D, we set out to move our slow-as-winter-molasses bodies with a brisk walk on a trail neither of us had hiked before. We found a hidden gem that is entirely worth it.

Winter feels like a good excuse for hibernating, but fresh air, exercise and nature improves mental health, brain function and even creativity.

Your mind and body will thank you once you’ve overcome the magnetic pull of the sofa, a good book and warm blankets. The City of Waterloo has over 150 kilometres of trails and one of the best ways to explore is to walk – and reap the benefits of the outdoors.

The GeoTime Trail, opened in 2007, is a 4.5 km loop trail marking 4.5 billion years of the earth’s geological

history; that’s one metre of trail for every one million years of geological time and one millimetre represents 1,000 years.

Dr. Alan Morgan, a professor emeritus of earth and environmental sciences at the University of Waterloo conceived of the trail as a way to illustrate the idea of geological time.

“Just imagine,” he urges, “the very last centimetre of the trail represents modern human time, including early man. And the dinosaurs go extinct only in the last 65 metres of the trail.”

How’s that for some deep contemplation of our place in the universe on a winter afternoon walk.

Beginning at a common parking area on Sundew Drive (at Mayapple Street), the trail winds through 80 foot tall hardwood forests over rolling terrain.

It skirts the edges of the Waterloo Moraine, an environmentally sensitive area in the middle of a growing suburb. Interpretive signs along the way point out geological time periods and features such as kettle lakes, which would have been part of the landscape millions of years ago.

FYI: The GeoTime Trail does not have directional signs so pay close attention to the map on the interpretive signs. The City of Waterloo plans to add wayfinding signs soon.

NEW TUNE REVIEW

LET’S GET STABILIZED SONG: “Stabilize” by Jojo Worthington LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXt-iGKPzXs&feature=youtu.be Kitchener-Waterloo based singersongwriter Jojo Worthington is back with a new single and music video, “Stabilize.”

I saw Worthington perform at January’s installation of Sofar Sounds; although I had heard her name a few times around town, it was my first time hearing her music. She delivered a dreamy and atmospheric set at the show, leaving me curious about the rest of her music.

“Stabilize” is the first single from Worthington’s newest album, TCYK, set to be released this June. The song tackles complex topics surrounding mental illness and the struggles of asking for help, when other people rely on you for support, also.

The video is abstract, and at some times confusing, but nonetheless a bold deliverance and unforgettable

depiction of the song. The video is undeniably creative, with splashes of bright and bold scenes and colours, contrasted by Worthington who is near motionless and calm.

“Stabilize” shows Worthington’s growth — it sounds fuller and there’s maturity in her writing. With the release of this full single, anticipation for TCKY is undoubtedly building.

The GeoTime Trail is a 4.5 km loop trail marking 4.5 billion years of the earth’s geological history.

JUANITA METZGER PHOTO

Winter is winter and yes, it happens every year whether we like it or not.

Railing against it does no good when that energy could be spent on a good walk or hike outside. No specialized equipment required, just some good layers and a thermos filled with a warm beverage.

Spending time outside in a Waterloo Region winter isn’t just limited to the GeoTime tail. Here are a few more Waterloo trails and activities to get you outside, moving and exploring: 1. Laurel Trail (8 km) crosses from Hillside Park in the east end of Waterloo all the way to Laurel Creek in the northwest where it twins up with part of The Great Trail. Stop for lunch in uptown Waterloo, which is conveniently at the mid-point of the Laurel Trail.

2. Find groomed trails for cross-

country skiing at Laurel Creek Conservation Area and Bechtel Park.

Ski and snowshoe rental is available at Laurel Creek CA, Saturday & Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. No rentals at Bechtel Park, bring your own. Walking and snowshoeing is also welcome on these trails but practice good trail etiquette and don’t walk in the ski tracks. Be sure to bring a container of sunflower seeds for the chickadees.

3. Want something more regular?

Join the Waterloo Region Nordic Ski Club, which provides ‘learn to ski’ and training for youth and adults in Bechtel Park and Waterloo Park. They attend races and loppets (all ages mass participation events) and organize ski trips and tours for members.

4. Lace up your skates and head to one of 22 outdoor rinks across Waterloo. The Waterloo Public Square

rink is open 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Check out the Skate Night Date Night with live music on Feb. 22, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

5. Looking for something a bit more heart-thumping? Join the crew from King Street Cycles and The Hydro Cut for a Wednesday night winter fat bike cycle ride. Riders meet at The Hydro Cut (Snyder’s Road Parking lot) at 7:00 p.m. Bring your own bike and lights or rent one from King Street Cycles or East Side Cycles. Trails at The Hydro Cut are open year round according to conditions. Always check before heading out.

6. Join a local outdoor group, many of which can be found through sites like Meetup.com. The Grand River Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Seekers has weekly hikes, walks and more.

Do you have an idea to help bring people together?

Any two or more neighbours can apply for a project or event that builds neighbourhood connections.

Submit your idea and you may be eligible to receive up to $7,500 in matched funds from our Neighbourhood Matching Fund – a great opportunity to fund projects large and small – community gardens, playgrounds, murals, neighbourhood events and more!

Two application deadlines give you lots of time to plan: Wednesday, February 27, 2019 before 2 p.m.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019 before 2 p.m.

- Beth Bowles, editor in chief

waterloo.ca/NMF

Great neighbourhoods start with

you.

FEBRUARY 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

14

INCOMPLETE LIST OF ITEMS LEFT BEHIND WORDS BY BASHAR LULU JABBOUR TCE POETRY every scientific american edition between 1982 to 1988, translated to arabic. when my father was young and single, with one mouth to feed, he bought scientific american monthly. fuel cells, game theory, hydrogen cars, global warming, I read ferociously, poured over details of how to win at monopoly. while packing, I ask my father to tuck in my favorite editions. no room. we pile them in bags and find a street bookseller in downtown damascus. 500 syrian pounds for all of them. I ask, who do you think will read them? they are of no use to anyone, we will use them to wrap falafel sandwiches. stereo system I play Nazel El-Sourour on repeat, I recite the words, knew the jokes were coming, laughed anyway. my father wrangles the stereo in one of the bags, it weighs above the limit. I reluctantly hand it to my upstairs neighbor, brag about the features, two cassette decks, you can make copies so easy now. favorite wool sweater. our host in canada plainly said wool sweaters are not needed, with central heating, you will sweat, remember to layer.

Ba’d el Sentayn, my first cassette tape. Wael Kfoury croons a mawal, “in your love, I see life celebration and song / and I cannot promise you gold and palaces, but a warm place to sleep,” he stretches the words in places I didn’t imagine possible. brand new 32” TV. the day we lost all hope of a call from the canadian embassy, we replaced a 20-year-old TV with a brand new one. for our first year in canada, we were still making payments.

CREATIVE COMMONS PHOTO

FEBRUARY 2019 // @THECOMMUNITYED

15

EVENT LISTINGS

WE’VE HAND SELECTED SOME COOL UPCOMING EVENTS AND WRITTEN SOME WITTY COMMENTARY. YOU’RE WELCOME.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

BEER DIVERSITY & INCLUSIVITY THE CAUSERIE

FEAST OF SAINT VALENTINE NORTH AMERICA

YOGA, WINE AND CHOCOLATE QUEEN STREET YOGA

Take the free t-shirt that comes with the 24pk of Budweiser off and join our pal, Ren Navarro, as she unpacks the lack of representation and inclusivity of the craft beer industry. From her perspective as a black, queer woman with a history in the industry, she’s well equipped to take the bro out of the brews.

Otherwise known as Valentine’s Day, is when you can eat your heart out on discounted chocolate and last-minute reservations. Hug your partner, your dog, your mother and celebrate love or succumb to consumerism and splurge on glitter, candle wax and hotels. My attempt at making listings sexy has failed.

Give into all your carnal desires and lean into hedonism as you sweat, sip and snack during this event.

Join Emma Dines and sommelier, Jenniver Selvig, for a night of sensory indulgence. This workshop features restorative yoga, Ontario VQA wines, and local artisan chocolate. Go on and treat yourself!

Workshop • $15 • 7 - 9pm

Yuckfest • Free • All day

Yoga • $45 • 7:30 - 9:30pm

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

FACES OF RECOVERY YOUTH MUSIC CENTRE

42 CARDEN ST.

BUILD AN EROTIC PLAYGROUND

OSCAR NIGHT PRINCESS CINEMAS

Following a film screening of Straight/Curve on Monday, Feb. 4 at the Waterloo Public Library, the Waterloo-Wellington Eating Disorders Coalition is hosting their annual panel discussion of those with lived experience and their supports. Monetary donations welcome.

A version of sexual education you never knew you needed but secretly wanted, join Kat Nantz for an interactive discussion about sex that will inspire your very own erotic playground. Learn how to communicate your boundaries, how to negotiate your wants and needs, and expand your definition of sex.

Despite lacking a host, the Oscars return with the 91st Academy Awards, so grab your faux fox tail and your white silk gloves and enjoy Hollywood’s most glamorous night.

Princess Cinemas will be hosting trivia, a predict-the-winner contest, and prizes. This event is a Food Bank benefit, donations required.

Panel Discussion • Free • 7 - 9pm

Workshop • $30 • 7 - 9pm

Film • Free • 7 - 11:30 pm

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

WINTER TOURS & TASTINGS ROYAL CITY BREWING CO.

HUG-A-BUG: INSECT ZOO BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY

TEA & TAROT THE CAUSERIE

Tired of going back and forth between your winter boots and your rubber duckies, head inside for a one hour tour of the RCBC brewhouse and join Dan for a guided beer tasting. You will be recieve a plethora of brewing history, a beer glass and a coupon for all you coupon queens out there.

Failed to do enough petting on Valentine’s Day? Well, head over to Cambridge for the Hug-A-Bug insect petting zoo to befriend some cool critters. Giant millipedes, thorny devil stick bugs, hornworm caterpillars, hissing cockroaches, and much much more. We all need more pals with more than two legs.

What makes an event revolving around tea herbals and tarot even more exhilirating? When it’s hosted at a place as cool as The Causerie and you don’t burn the roof of your mouth. This event’s maximum is 8 people, so sharpen the edges of your tarot cards and light your sticks of sage to fight to secure your spot.

Beer • $20 • 1 - 4pm

Zoo • $7.50-15 • 5pm

Tarot • $40 • 1 - 4pm

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 & 18

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

BREW KOMBUCHA SEVEN SHORES

FAMILY DAY CARNIVAL BINGEMANS

DTK AFTER PARTY THE LOKAL

If you’re a frequent listings flyer, then you know our team’s infatuation with a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast! It’s terribly cute how the strains live together in a complex, mutually supportive communities, depending on one another. Kombucha is evidently the flavor for the month of love!

Bring your little pals to this funfest to enjoy the bouncy castle, rides, food and activities. Nothing says Family Day like sticky hands, hot dogs and inflatables. Adults and children under 2 are completely free, so even if your pals are taller than 6 ft, head on out and dive into the debauchery of the local carnival.

Following this evening of the KW Comedy Festival’s extravaganza eleganza, the Downtown Kitchener BIA has arranged an after party where you can get up close and too personal with the festival’s comedians and show goers. There will be apps, drinks and tunes with the chance to win festival tickets.

Workshop • $40.49 • 2 - 3pm

Carnival • $10 • 10am - 4pm

Festival • Free • 9 - 12am

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

LGBTQ+ CLOTHING SWAP 1770 KING ST E UNIT 5

FAMILY DAY IN YOUR HEART

YOU’VE BEEN GILMORED! CHAINSAW

A collaboration by the Aids Committee of KW and Cambridge and Plan B Co-operative, bring back their LGBTQ+ clothing swap.

They’re still looking for clothing donations, volunteers to help with transporting clothing the day of and to help take down the event. Contact the hosts to lend a helping hand!

Whether your version of family is your group of pals, a clowder of cats, or the internet, take this day to celebrate and hold hands with them in KW. You can spend the day in bed watching Ellen giveaways that rip your heart out, gabbing over greasy fingers at a local eatery, or scoring time and a half at work. Cha-ching.

Call Kirk’s mom to arrange a ride with Ooober and get ready to snack your heart out, but don’t forget to save time for a late night Luke’s run, because Gilmore Girls trivia is back! We promise not to throw any deviled eggs at your car and we don’t endorse rich kid societies. So suck it, Harvard, we’ve returned.

Clothes • $15 • 7 - 9 pm

Holiday • Free • All Day

Fun • $5 • 6:30 - 9 pm

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

KWAG FILM SERIES KITCHENER PUBLIC LIBRARY

BOWIEFEST KITCHENER FARMERS MARKET

HOMER WATSON HOUSE AND GALLERY

This part of the series plays Tim Wardle’s documentary, Three Identical Strangers, which follows identical triplets, seperated at birth and adopted by three different families. The reunion is both a sensation but also unearths a secret that has radical repercussions. The thriller we never knew we needed.

Channel your inner Ziggy Stardust, pull on your red overalls as you slide on your eyepatch and contact ground control because Bowiefest is coming to DTK. Don’t miss out as this fest will leave your pupils permanently dilated. Don’t fret, George Underwood isn’t attending.

Bowie-themed costumes welcome.

Head out and enjoy a night full of heartwarming art and live bands with the House and Gallery’s exhibit, Inside Out. It will feature the work of Dave Cox, Barbara Di Renzo and Robert Skeoch. Their Facebook event claims this is a one night party none of us will want to miss and Facebook tells no lies.

Film • Free • 7 - 9pm

Festival • Free • 6 - 9pm

Art • Free • 7 - 10 pm

COMMUNITYEDITION.CA @THECOMMUNITYED

STREET ART BOMBING

FEBRUARY 2019 // @THECOMMUNITYED

16

LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT A HISTORY AND DECONSTRUCTION OF AN UPTOWN STAPLE especially because of its popularity so far.

As Smith said: “you don’t mess with success.”

AARON HAGEY CONTRIBUTOR If you are a purveyor of quality food on a fiscally-conscious budget like myself, then you might be interested in participating in the humble, yet satisfying, culinary experience that has become an iconic staple in uptown Waterloo: Ethel’s Taco Tuesday.

For only $2.86 — with the purchase of a drink, of course — you are graced with four hard-shell, all-ground-beef tacos, complete with lettuce, grated cheese and your choice of preferred side: fresh-made pico-de-gallo salsa, tangy sour cream or creamy guacamole.

This cheap and beloved meal choice has become a dining staple in a number of Waterloo residents’ weeks, but the question remains: how was this juggernaut of cuisine conceived?

For the benefit of all the taco lovers out there, I took a deeper look into the history of one of Ethel’s most prominent food specials, to get the investigative scoop on what goes on in one of the city’s favourite local eateries.

HOW AND WHEN DID THIS FABLED WEEKLY FOOD SPECIAL BEGIN? Ethel’s has been doing Taco Tuesday’s since shortly after they began, in 1994. Which means that, for over 24 years, they’ve been serving up an affordable opportunity for social gatherings in the community. But why on Tuesdays?

“Like any restaurant, [we] were just looking for a way to promote a slower day of the week. Seeing as ‘tacos’ and ‘Tuesdays’ seemed to have such a ring to it, that’s probably why it’s on Tuesdays,” said Glenn Smith, owner and proprietor of Ethel’s Lounge.

HAS ETHEL’S CHANGED THE RECIPE OF THE TACOS AT ALL? As the old adage says: “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Ethel’s has been doing tacos the same way for almost a quarter of a century — and they don’t intend to change it anytime soon,

BUT HOW MANY TACOS DO THEY GO THROUGH IN AN AVERAGE NIGHT? If the legends are true, then according to Smith, they receive approximately 19,680 orders of tacos every Tuesday. Multiply that by 52 weeks in a year and that means that, annually, they get over one million orders of tacos — at four tacos to an order, that means they crank out over four million tacos per year. That being said, they go through “more than a few hundred pounds” of ground beef each taco night.

IS THERE A SIDE THAT IS FAVOURED MORE OR ORDERED MORE FREQUENTLY? Like any parent who can’t choose their favourite child, there is no outstanding preference for the sides provided with the tacos. It is, however, largely dependent on dietary restrictions and personal tastes, such as those who can’t have dairy — and therefore would not order the sour cream. As well, their salsa, which is more like a pico-de-gallo, wouldn’t be the ideal choice for those — like myself — who aren’t big on tomatoes.

WHO HOLDS THE LEGENDARY RECORD FOR MOST TACOS ORDERED IN A NIGHT? According to Rochelle Helmer, one of the serving staff at Ethel’s, the current record stands at a jawdropping 56 tacos. As the story goes, the mysterious taco fiend was a man fresh out of prison following a hunger strike — and it was Ethel’s that caught his eye. Those poor kitchen staff never knew what hit them that day. They say he still prowls the streets at night, looking for his next conquest of beefy glory.

WHAT ARE ETHEL’S MOST POPULAR WEEKLY SPECIALS? “I would say the meatloaf and the tacos. We have people that drive from out of town, who will drive for hours, for the meatloaf. Tuesdays and Thursdays, people are very adamant

about tacos and meatloaf,” Helmer said.

BUT WHAT SEASON ARE THE MOST TACOS SOLD? As would make the most sense, their Tuesday’s are the busiest during the summertime, when Ethel’s patio is available. The extra 80 seats, in combination with the warmer weather, creates an overall more hospitable and welcoming social environment — and an even better atmosphere for chowing down on tacos. In contrast, the winter months are the times they find that people want to go out the least and their hankering for tacos isn’t as strong.

WHY HAS THIS SEEMINGLYINNOCUOUS DAY BECOME SO POPULAR? According to Smith, it’s taken a bit of a life of its own, to some degree.

Though Ethel’s is not traditionally considered a “student bar,” this night of the week does offer an incredible and rare opportunity for a number of students on a constricted budget: inexpensive food.

But there’s so much more to it than just that.

“It’s also become somewhat of a social thing and that ingrained itself all by itself. It turned from a taco — an inexpensive food item — into a meet-and-greet thing, where groups of three or four, five or six will come together, knowing that they can hang out and not really [have to] spend a lot of money. That whole social aspect of it,” Smith said.

So there you have it: a warm, welcoming social atmosphere, a costeffective and thoroughly-filling meal and as many tacos your stomach can hold — these are the treasures that await you at Ethel’s Lounge.

For those who are lacking consistency and routine in their lives, Ethel’s legendary Taco Tuesday can become your own personal dining oasis, for just a toonie and some spare change.

JESSE DERRY PHOTOS

19,680

ORDERS OF TACOS EVERY TUESDAY

56

THE CURRENT RECORD OF TACOS EATEN IN ONE NIGHT