The Community Edition: December 2019

VOLUME 8, ISSUE 3 • DECEMBER 2019

WRAP YOUR GIFTS IN TCE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

DECEMBER 2019 // @THECOMMUNITYED

IN THIS

ISSUE

VOLUME 8, ISSUE 3

DECEMBER 2019

THIS ISSUE OF TCE WAS FUELED BY EMILY’S SNACK DRAWER - SO MANY CHEDDA! BALLS. HOT TIP: RECYCLE THIS ISSUE OF THE COMMUNITY EDITION BY USING IT AS WRAPPING PAPER. THANK YOU FOR NEW FRIENDS AND COPY EDITORS JACKIE AND JESSIE. GLAD WE HAVEN’T SCARED YOU OFF, YET.

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FEATURE

8-9 GREEN ROOM BARBERSHOP

EDITOR’S PICK

12 CHARLES ST TERMINAL PHOTO SERIES

INSIDE

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

IN BRIEF AND EDITOR’S NOTE PET FRIENDLY SPOTS DURING THE HOLIDAYS LGBTQ+ IN LOCAL TECH FAMILY FRIENDLY PLACES AROUND THE REGION REGIONAL RECIPE: BEJEWELLED WARM RICE SALAD VEG FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN WR NEW TUNE REVIEW: CAT IN THE BOX BY SUNDIVER EASY BEING GREEN: SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAY UNDERGROUND MUSIC SCENE HYPERLOCAL TRAVEL: WILMONT TOWNSHIP 519 SCHMECKS: CHRISTMAS WITH THE COOKS CHARLES ST TERMINALS PHOTO SERIES THE SIDE HUSTLE: KWARTERLY LEGACY GREENS FOR THE HOLIDAYS SEXPLANATIONS: SEX WORKERS RIGHTS HARU NOON // EVENT LISTINGS

COVER BY LAKYN BARTON Volume 8, Issue 3 Next issue: January 8th, 2020 75 University Ave. W Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5 519-884-0710 x3564 THE COMMUNITY EDITION TEAM Editor in Chief Melissa Embury melissa@communityedition.ca Community Engagement Kristina Lalatovic kristina@communityedition.ca Publisher Lakyn Barton lakyn.barton@wlusp.com Social Media Coordinators Brit Kovacs Ramona Leitao Staff Writers Rachael MacIntosh Racheal Walser Staff Photographers Nick Stanley Jesse Derry General Inquiries info@communityedition.ca

CONTRIBUTORS All advertising inquiries should be directed to Kurtis Rideout at 519-884-0710 x3560 kurtis.rideout@wlusp.com

WLUSP ADMINISTRATION President Aaron Waitson

Aaron Waitson Beth Bowles Brit Kovacs Erin Appleby Jackelyn Gill Jessie Skinner Kennedy Stevens Kurtis Rideout Mariana Bilbao

Executive Director Lakyn Barton Advertising Manager Kurtis Rideout Directors Alyssa Di Sabatino Arshy Mann Emily Crump Kashyap Patel Rosalind Horne

COLUMNISTS Breen Split Jenna Aquino Juanita Metzger Nick Benninger Stacey Danckert Stacey Jacobs

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.

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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NEWS IN BRIEF

The Green Room barbershop in midtown opened on Nov. 27.

Find out more on pages 8 and 9.

JESSE DERRY PHOTO

FOOD BANK ACCESS INCREASE

SOMEWHERE OVER COLDEST NOV SINCE 1996 THE RAINBOW

Feed Ontario released Hunger Report 2019 which tracks food bank access trends province-wide.

It reported a 27 per cent increase in adults with employment income accessing Ontario’s food banks over the past three years.

Feed Ontario believes this increase is due to factors such as changes to Ontario’s labour laws and worker support programs.

Maybe not in Cambridge though. The City of Cambridge proposed installation of a rainbow crosswalk at the 2020 draft budget meeting. Although the idea was first approved in the Diversity Committee’s 2018 report, Council has receive some negative feedback from individuals against the project The project would cost $15,000.

Last month was the coldest November in almost 25 years for Waterloo Region. The temperature was 2.5 degrees below average and almost half a degree colder than November last year, according to the University of Waterloo weather station.

That makes it the sixth coldest November in the more than 100year history of weather records.

TOP COLLISION HOTSPOT SPOTS

FREE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS

KITCHENER HWY FATAL SHOOTING

According to a report going to the Region’s planning and works committee, the areas of the Region that have seen the highest number of collisions for pedestrians in 2018 are: 1. University Ave at Albert St 2. Erb St at Ira Needles Blvd 3. University Ave at Philip St 4. Ainslie St at Main St 5. King St at Bishop St

The City of Kitchener will run a 6 month pilot program to provide free menstrual products in City operated facilities. The products will be in coin-free dispensers or on trays. The pilot, costing less than $5,000, is “an issue of menstrual equality” Coun. Marsh said in a press release. The Aud and City Hall are among the pilot locations.

On Nov. 26 Waterloo Regional Police were called to Highway 7/8 near Courtland Ave for reported gunshots. A 20 year old man, later identified as Irshad Sabriye, was found deceased. A vehicle was engulfed in flames nearby.

Police believe the incidents are connected, that the victim likely knew his killer or killers and the murder was a “targeted incident.”

HELLO FROM THE NEW STAFF

GETTING READY FOR THE NEW YEAR WITH NEW FACES

These are obviously not the faces of Melissa and Kristina.

These are the faces of Melissa and Kristina’s cats, Hansel and Artemis, enjoying their best nap life just like Ross and Joey.

KRISTINA LALATOVIC PHOTO

Hello readers! We are excited to bring you our first edition as the new Editor in Chief and head of Community Engagement — we hope you like it.

Even in the age of social media, people still want to feel connected — to know what is going on around them, and for someone to advocate for the place that they live. We take that responsibility and our role very seriously. We’re here to tell peoples’ stories and bring people together through community journalism.

8 in 10 Canadians read a newspaper every week either print or online, including 85% of Millennials. We want to be your go-to local knowledge hub when you need information, and to elevate those voices that would not normally have the chance to be heard. Check out some of our stories this month highlighting important topics like LGBTQ+ in tech, one woman’s immigration experience, and sex worker rights.

Waterloo Region is growing and we’re in a time where new businesses, creative endeavours

and exciting new projects are popping up and blossoming all over the place. Our goal is to continue to build relationships with our local partners and to forge new bonds like never before.

We are also looking forward to creating TCE events where the local community has the opportunity to interact and leave a mark.

We can’t wait to start this new journey with you all.

Happy holidays everyone!

— Melissa & Kristina.

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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“TAKE ME WITH YOU!” SAID YOUR FUR-CHILD LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACES AROUND TOWN TO TAKE YOUR FURRY CHILDREN THIS WINTER? PET FRIENDLY SPOTS

ERIN APPLEBY CONTRIBUTOR The winter months are a perfect time to snuggle up at home with your pets. If you already have cabin fever and want to spend time with your four-legged friends outside of the house, here is a list of winter dog parks, events, and dog-friendly indoor spaces.

BECHTEL PARK This dog park is located just off University Ave at 185 Bridge Street.

This City of Waterloo run park features free parking, and at the south end, a large leash-free area for dogs. The large, fully fenced area, features a natural walking path, perfect for keeping you and Fido in shape this winter. No treats or toys are allowed in this park; the idea is that you are walking your dog off leash, where they can interact with other dogs.

MCLENNAN PARK Located at 901 Ottawa St S, this City of Kitchener dog park features lots of free parking, and a medium size fenced in area with plenty of garbage disposal. McLennan Park is more of an open area, than a walking track, but a great place for your dog to meet and socialize with other dogs.

BENJAMIN TREE FARM Looking to pick out your Christmas Tree? If you head to Benjamin Tree Farm located at 770 Benjamin Road,

you can bring your furry friends.

Dogs are allowed in the over 30 achers of Christmas Trees and it’s a perfect space for a winter walk, where you can harvest your own tree or pick from a beautiful selection of pre-cut trees.

WONDERS OF WINTER Wonders of Winter is an annual event in Waterloo Park from Nov. 30 until Dec. 31. The lights are on display from 5:30 – 10:30 p.m. every evening. Avoid New Year’s when they have a firework display, and Friday and Saturday nights there are horse-drawn trolley rides. Two different dog friendly nights occur during December. On Dec. 11 at 7 p.m., walk through the park with The Dog Haus, and enjoy hot cocoa.

Feel free to dress your pup festively.

On Dec. 19, join Leaders of the Pack for their 2nd annual HOWL-iday Pack Walk starting at 7 p.m. near the Lions Splash pad. Both events are free to attend and organizers have requested that for the safety of the pack, attendees refrain from using extendable leashes.

TWB Together We’re Bitter Co-operative brewing located at 300 Mill Street, Unit #1, creates hand crafted locally made beer. Dogs are welcome in the front tap room, but can’t go into the back production room. Take your pooch while you sit and enjoy a local brew.

DEC. 7, 9 A.M. – 1 P.M. Huron East Animal Hospital.

Minimum of a $10 donation or unopened bag/case of canned dog or cat food. Proceeds to be donated to Ground Search and Rescue KW to help pets in need.

DEC. 7, 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. & DEC. 8 11 A.M. - 3 P.M. Ren’s Pets Kitchener. $10 per pictures goes to the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society DEC. 8, 6:30 P.M. - 8 P.M. Conestoga Mall. Please enter through the mall doors near Winners (at rear of mall). All other doors will be locked.

DEC. 14, 11 A.M. - 4 P.M. Global Pet Foods at Laurelwood Shopping Plaza (FREE) DEC. 14, Must call store to book appointment.

Christmas Photos at Pet Valu Stanley Park ($25+) DEC. 15, Must call store to book appointment.

Christmas Photos at Pet Valu on Bridgeport and Weber ($25+) DEC. 21, Must call store to book appointment.

Christmas Photos at Pet Valu on Highland Rd ($25+)

PHOTOS WITH SANTA Looking for places to have a photo with Santa or Christmas themed photos, check out these different options:

Even though this article is about dog friendly places, Maeby dressed as Santa Paws is everything we need this holiday.

PAIGE BUSH PHOTO

ON MAKING SPACE FOR LGBTQ+ IN LOCAL TECH

SUPPORTING THE NEED AND MOTIVATED BY CREATING A SPACE FOR LGBTQ+ IN KW TECH LOCAL SUPPORT GROUP IS BORN

JESSIE SKINNER CONTRIBUTER

Note: To protect the privacy and human rights of the individuals involved, the Community Edition used only first names where sources requested not to have their full names published.

Since 2018, the Making Space community collective has organized networking meetups for queeridentified people to connect professionally and get to know each other.

“The year I decided to come out, I thought ‘If I’m running a company, and I can’t be myself, how do I expect to make space for other people to be themselves?’,” said co-founder and software developer Gord Tanner.

Tanner was motivated by the need for such a space within the KW community after stumbling upon a worldwide Slack group for LGBTQ+ in Tech, with subgroups supporting a multitude of identities and backgrounds.

“Suddenly, it felt like we weren’t so alone in the world. I could find folks with the same lived experiences,”

Tanner said.

“And make incredible tech connections, too! I kept thinking, ‘I want this in real life.’ But there was no one [in Kitchener-Waterloo] on it.”

Eventually, Tanner realized “If this is gonna happen, I’m just going to start it.”

Such an initiative has been a long time coming. Ross, a meetup attendee who has worked as a software developer for almost 30 years, spoke of the realities that queer-identifying employees have faced in the past.

“The first few jobs I had out of University, between ‘91 and ‘96, there was still the standard gay jokes.

That was standard in society at large.

There were no laws [to combat such language in the workplace].”

In recent years, those who’ve grown up with laws and policies in place to promote respect and dignity in the workplace have still found a lack of opportunities for connection and networking.

“Not everything [for LGBTQ+ people in tech] is peachy, yet,” said Shawn, a software developer and recent college graduate.

“Myself, I haven’t run into situations where I’ve been made to feel uncomfortable with myself, but from what I’m used to, there just isn’t a lot of space in KW for people in the community to meet up.”

Making Space has given local

businesses the opportunity to participate in the creation of such spaces. Most recently, KW-based Miovision provided its facilities to host the meetup.

“There have been many companies that have been willing to open their doors to our group,” Shawn said.

While tech companies across North America have provided more outspoken support for marginalized groups in recent years, changing a common workplace culture that denies the actual inclusion of those groups is still crucial.

“I don’t need another CEO who isn’t part of the community telling

me how awesome they are. They need to amplify and bring forth the voices of the community,” Tanner said.

With more spaces for safe communication comes greater empowerment for those in the community to advocate for themselves and each other. Tanner elaborated on the ongoing need that a meetup like Making Space fulfills for its participants. “[This] is primarily a networking space, because queer folks in tech have unique questions, and problems. Jobhunting as a queer-idenitifed person in tech … you don’t always know

MELISSA EMBURY PHOTO where you’re going into. So it’s about finding people who could vouch for companies, and each other” Tanner said.

Making Space’s LGBTQ+ in Tech monthly meetups will be taking December off in accordance with the holiday season, but will regroup in January. Making Space also promotes organized public speaking events, and offers guidance to those in the community who wish to develop their public speaking skills and experience.

Visit makingspace.tech for up-todate info.

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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Play With Clay in Cambridge has many options to entertain all ages in the cold weather. MARIANA BILBAO PHOTO

JOIN IN ALL THE REINDEER GAMES THIS WINTER

WHERE TO FIND FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN THE REGION TO FILL YOUR (AND YOUR KIDS’) SCHEDULES THIS WINTER SEASON Heads up — this is not the easiest place to bring strollers. Make sure you check their website for fun seasonal events and winter hours. How many trees can you count?

MARIANA BILBAO CONTRIBUTOR Waterloo Region has everything you need this holiday season to create unforgettable memories and new family traditions with your little and not so little ones!

CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE

Castle Killbride Travel back in time at Castle Killbride to see what Christmas was like in 1877.

You’re not allowed to take pictures, so put your devices aside and feel the magic of the season. Take time and enjoy the intricate details in this beautifully decorated Victorian home.

GIFT OF LIGHTS

Bingemans A light show worth visiting at Bingemans in the comfort and warmth of your car. If you’re not a fan of spending some time in the cold with the little ones, enjoy this fun and colourful show.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS

Woodside National Historic Site You have until Dec. 22 to visit the Woodside National Historic Site. See how the Lyon Mackenzie King and his family celebrated this festive time of year through the richly decorated rooms of its Victorian beauty.

OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS

#NAILEDIT

Snyders Family Farm Opened for the weekends in December, Snyders Family Farm is the place to be this Christmas. Complete with hay rides, a North Pole with Santa, s’mores for roasting, holidaythemed crafts and fresh-cut Christmas trees — as always the delicious bakery will be open to satisfy all our sweet needs.

Various places Feel like total Pinterest pro at one of the Nailed It Night workshops. Choose from a variety of Christmas inspired DIY projects that will make great memories and the most perfect gifts.

Their workshops happen in various locations, so check their schedule on Facebook.

DIY CRAFTS & DECOR

10 Water Street N, Cambridge As the name suggest, at Play With Clay you can do more than paint — you can actually play with clay in downtown Cambridge. Options are endless, from hand and foot prints for the little ones to mugs, decorative plates and ornaments. Imagination really has no limits. While you’re building your masterpiece, you can look at the beautiful city covered in white snow.

245 The Boardwalk, Waterloo Skip the tasteless gifts and make your own. Stop by Crock A Doodle’s drop-in studio and paint a Christmas tree, ornament, mug or whatever you can think of. Take advantage of a night to shop while you leave the kids entertained for a couple of hours by taking them to a workshop or a special visit from Santa on Dec. 8. Check their website for a full list of events.

PLAY WITH CLAY

CLAY AND GLASS GALLERY

25 Caroline Street North, Waterloo Want a different type of pottery workshop? Check out the the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery. They have a few workshops and classes available for various levels, including a “Play With Clay” workshop for all ages.

PLAY-A-LATTE

1601 River Rd E Unit 22, Kitchener I couldn’t leave Play-A-Latte out of this list. This indoor play area is geared towards children under seven.

They also have some pottery events scheduled in addition to sign-making workshops and ornament painting.

GET FESTIVE WITH THIS

BEJEWELLED WARM RICE SALAD REGIONAL RECIPE

BREEN SPLITT COLUMNIST This seasonal warm rice salad makes for a great addition to your holiday entertaining and is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Not only is it beautiful to serve, it’s also the perfect mix of sweet and salty flavours, and the balance of warm and cool temperatures will make your soul cheery and leave your taste buds full of umami.

This dish is inspired by traditional Persian jewelled rice, and a recipe that can be easily prepared ahead of time or customized with ingredients you may already have in your pantry or fridge. It’s very forgiving to any changes in ingredients or portion sizes, so have fun and don’t be afraid to personalize it!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

BREEN SPLITT PHOTO

2 cups of uncooked rice (I used 1 cup of black rice and 1 cup of Canadian wild rice.)

2 cups of brussels sprouts, shaved or very thinly sliced.

¾ cup of golden raisins, soaked in warm water for 4-5 minutes, then drained. ¾ cup of fresh pomegranate arils. ½ cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped. ¼ cup of fresh green onion, finely chopped. ½ cup of toasted almond slivers.

Juice of ½ lemon and ½ an orange.

3 TBSP of olive oil.

2 TBSP of maple syrup, local honey, pomegranate molasses, or agave.

1/3 cup of plant-based butter.

1 clove of garlic, minced.

Salt and pepper to taste.

Large bowl for tossing.

PREPARATION: I personally like to use a mix of different kinds of rice for both texture, flavour and appearance, but literally, any kind of rice would work, so you can use what you have. Try pairing of dramatic black grain rice (find it at your local Bulk Barn!), and classic and earthy wild rice.

Other add-ins you may enjoy: roasted root vegetables, chopped mint, sautéed garlic and onions, chopped and roasted pecans or walnuts, finely chopped apple, local microgreens or cranberries.

1. Cook your rice following the cooking instructions and season with salt appropriately. I always

recommend soaking your rice for 5-10 minutes before cooking to remove excess starch. I also recommend cooking rice in vegetable stock for optimal flavour.

2. While rice is cooking, prepare your other ingredients. During this time you can shave brussels sprouts, chop parsley and green onion, mince garlic, toast your almonds and clean your pomegranate.

3. Add shaved brussels sprouts, chopped parsley and green onion into a large bowl. Add the drained golden raisins, pomegranate arils and toasted almond slivers. Add in cooked warm rice.

4. In a small saucepan, melt your plant-based butter. Add your garlic.

Add olive oil and maple syrup. Keep on lowest heat until your salad is ready to dress.

5. Once all ingredients are in your large bowl and your dressing has warmed and mixed, incorporate dressing into rice and salad mixture.

Squeeze fresh lemon and orange juice into the salad. Season to taste with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Toss well to incorporate all ingredients. Serve warm.

DECEMBER 2019 // @THECOMMUNITYED

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VEG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN WR available at all times.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy brunch spot, a sweet treat or a bustling Friday night dinner, these spots have you covered.

KENNEDY STEVENS CONTRIBUTOR Although recent years have seen an increase of vegan and vegetarian diets and restaurants, I remember a time when veganism was incredibly uncommon in the Region.

Just over five years ago, I had just one vegan friend and only knew of two exclusively vegan restaurants in the Region, one of which being Thrive.

When I first stepped foot into Thrive — my first vegan restaurant in my unexpanded and at-the-time omnivorous life, I was skeptical.

However, Thrive served refined, yet hearty plates of burgers, nachos, pancake brunches and an array of desserts. Are chocolate chip cookies and burritos vegan? They can be!

Nowadays, although the first restaurant I tried in the vegan realm is no longer in operation, you’ll find an abundance of plant-based locales region-wide.

Naïvely, I once believed vegan food could be anything but delicious and all-encompassing. While many local establishments offer plantbased alternatives (usually of the Beyond Meat variety), the following restaurants offer entirely or mostly vegan and vegetarian menu, or have an extensive plant-based menu

CAFÉ PYRUS & CAFÉ PYRUS OUTPOST

16 Charles St W, Kitchener (Original) & 150 Roger St, Waterloo (Outpost) IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: Casual breakfast or lunch.

HOW MANY PLANTS? Almost everything is vegan. I believe the only non-vegan food options are cheese and milk.

SUPERPOWER: Breakfast sandwiches and cinnamon buns.

ZERO WASTE BULK

110 King St S Unit B, Waterloo IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: Donuts and plant-based cooking or baking ingredients.

HOW MANY PLANTS? 99 per cent plant-based.

SUPERPOWER: A BYO-container policy — bring your own containers and spare the usual plastic waste that comes with grocery shopping or takeout. P.S. I’m sure most places on this list would be happy to put your to-go bakery items or food in a container if you brought your own.

JANE BOND

5 Princess St W, Waterloo IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: An eclectic and cozy dinner spot with frequent live music and comedy.

HOW MANY PLANTS? Entirely vegetarian with a lot of vegan

Food always looks better in colour. But here we are. This is a meal from Cafe Pyrus.

KRISTY GUTHRIE-ROTH FILE PHOTO options.

Street Commons is vegetarian.

SUPERPOWER: Cauliflower wings SUPERPOWER: By supporting these SHOW & TELL COFFEE and unique feature dishes cafes, you support The Working 30 Ontario St N, Kitchener Centre, a Kitchener-based non-profit IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: A light that dedicated to supporting and OKAY GREAT COFFEE brunch and an innovative lineup of elevating our community.

1 Water St N, Cambridge specialty coffees.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: A HOW MANY PLANTS? Most fare is charming coffee shop with breakfast BEERTOWN & THE BAUER vegan, and all drinks can be made oats, toast, and goodies. with plant-based alternatives.

KITCHEN HOW MANY PLANTS? 100 per cent SUPERPOWER: Vegan Oreo chip 75 King St S, Waterloo (Beertown), vegan. cookies and creative coffee-based 187 King St S, Waterloo (TBK) SUPERPOWER: Unique toast drinks like Froot Loop cereal milk IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: A toppings on bakery bread. lattes. buzzing dinner spot with gourmet comfort food.

CE FOOD EXPERIENCE HOW MANY PLANTS? Both have QUEEN STREET COMMONS & 136 Moore Ave S, Waterloo extensive vegan menus; Beertown’s FRESH GROUND IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: Takeout has been around for a while and TBK 43 Queen St S, Kitchener (Queen bakery. just launched theirs.

Street) & 256 King St E, Kitchener HOW MANY PLANTS? Not all SUPERPOWER: TBK just came (Fresh Ground) plant-based, but an array of vegan out with a vegan ‘eggs’ bennie IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: An options. (very intriguing), and Beertown has inexpensive lunch spot specializing SUPERPOWER: Amazing amazing vegan tacos. in soups, sandwiches and salads. sourdough bread and rotating vegan HOW MANY PLANTS? Fresh cupcake flavours.

Ground is mostly vegan and Queen

NEW TUNE REVIEW

HEAVY BUT MELODIC TRACK: “Cat in a Box” by Sundiver LINK: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bN_cE2FS32o Sundiver is, to put it simply, alt-rock at its finest. For a band that defies genre in practice and in theory, it is difficult to draw comparisons — I recently heard someone describe them as similar to Queens of the Stone Age and you will even hear a bit of CKY in there when you listen close.

True to form, their latest single “Cat in a Box” will have you grasping at straws trying to put a pin in the familiar but fresh sounding cut. The vocal tone has a classic feel to it, while the driving bassline and drum track pull you in from the start. “Cat in a Box” is a front-seat drive from the beginning, and once the guitar jolts in, you are stuck to your seat.

Sundiver is one of those rare bands that’s super heavy but melodic and dreamy all at the same time, and they do a good job of weaving it all together in a way that is catchy and worthy of repeated listens.

While the slick production works

miracles in showcasing a group of hardworking and driven musicians who know the sound they’re going for, their real essence is immediately apparent in their energetic live performances.

“Cat in a Box” is the third in a series of monthly singles that Sundiver will be delivering over the next year, following “The Reason and Livid.”

These three tracks, as well as their EP “Where the Fire Goes” are all available now on streaming services.

- Kurtis Rideout, local musician, producer and ad manager for WLUSP

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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CREATIVE COMMONS

HAVE A HOLLY JOLLY SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAY

THE HOLIDAYS ARE COMPING UP FAST! HERE, HAVE SOME TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP SUSTAINABILITY TOP OF MIND THIS WINTER

EASY BEING GREEN

STACEY DANCKERT COLUMNIST Since it’s particularly challenging not to get swept up in the magic (read: consumerism) of it all this holiday season, here are my tips to make it easier to get through the holidays sustainably.

You don’t need to be the Grinch - actually, keeping sustainability in mind during the holidays may push you to be more creative (and shhh, it may also save you money!)

Probably the best way to approach the season is to not buy presents at

all. Not a shocking suggestion, but definitely worth saying!

Often we buy out of a sense of obligation or reciprocity. You can avoid embarrassment by discussing it ahead of time and agreeing on a celebration or event in lieu of physical gifts.

Sometimes ditching the stuff can actually lead to something more special. Believe it or not — teachers don’t actually need another mug or soap set, but I’m sure they could really use a “thank you!”

If you are buying new items, make sure to look for things that are robust, and are made in a sustainable way wherever possible.

Don’t forget the environmental costs of shipping the item to you — buy local when it’s an option. Don’t get sucked in by google ads, and sales - if you didn’t already know you

needed it, you probably don’t.

Also, try to skip the batteries as they create additional landfill throughout their lifetime and are more likely to break. And don’t forget to ditch the fancy, shiny paper and opt for reusable wrapping or old newspaper.

Be creative. There are so many ways to buy less stuff and still let people know how special they are to you. For example: you could have a ‘seconds’ holiday where you buy only preloved items to exchange or recreate into new items. Buying such upcycled pieces is a great way to support small, local businesses, decrease the amount of waste heading into landfill all while saving money. It can be a fun challenge and lead to really unique gifts.

You could also trade consumables or experience gifts. Plan ahead and

make extra during canning season to give as gifts, or find special treats that they will love. You could also pay for loved ones to have a new experience, or share an experience together. It could be as simple as a dinner at a restaurant, seeing a local sports team (Go Titans!), taking an art or pottery class, or going to see a play. The options are only limited by your imagination (and internet search engine).

Consider making a donation instead. There are also many interesting ways you can do this.

Some of the larger organizations have specific things you can donate (i.e., local water systems) or will send a small related item as a symbol of the donation (such as a stuffed toy).

You could also consider local charities, such as Environmentallyfocused non-profits, or

LIKE OUR FESTIVE COVER? USE IT TO WRAP YOUR GIFTS THIS SEASON. #SUSTAINABILITY #REUSE

organizations that provide support to people in need. Even the Fire Station collects new toys. You could also choose a crowdfunding or Indiegogo project together to support.

Finally, don’t act in silence. Tell others about the ways that you have greened your holidays — they may have new ideas or might even take some of yours. Be sensitive to others’ feelings and don’t lecture.

Don’t shy away from letting people know that we don’t have to succumb to the pressure of consumerism and that we can still enjoy all that the holidays have to offer!

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

THE CORNERSTONE OF COMMUNITY: GREEN ROOM BARBERSHOP WORDS BY BETH BOWLES PHOTOS BY JESSE DERRY

In show business, the green room is a space inside a theatre or venue reserved for performers to prepare, unwind — or party. Dating back to Shakespearean times, green rooms have offered a space away from the stage to de-stress with friends before, or after, an important event.

When local barbers Dave Brown and Eddie Stannard decided to pursue their goal of opening their own barbershop, the name Green Room seemed fitting.

“Most of us came from the music scene, or music backgrounds. Coming up with a band name — or a business name — is hard because it’s a reflection of what you’re doing,” Stannard said.

“Dave sent me a list of name suggestions and [Green Room] was the one that stood out to me because I thought it paid homage to our past with the music scene, but it’s also the ready room for the VIP’s, and that’s what we do here. We help people get ready for their events in their lives.”

Alongside fellow barber Marissa Posmituk, apprentice Mike Malloy and shop hand Brendan Lennard, Green Room Barbershop celebrated their soft open on Nov. 27. Located on the stretch of King St. known affectionately as “Midtown,” the space seemed like the perfect pit stop between Kitchener and Waterloo.

After barbering independently for some time, both Brown and Stannard realized they missed the shop atmosphere — which is where they first met. Stannard started out as Brown’s client a few years ago when Brown worked at a Waterloo barbershop.

Stannard then became his apprentice, and now the two are business partners.

“I think we both lost the sense of community that having a shop has …

No one gets into barbering to be alone; it’s that shop atmosphere that really makes this industry and this career so enjoyable,” Stannard said.

Brown, who grew up in Kitchener,

received a few offers from local shops while he was on his own, but nothing felt right.

“There was nothing that catered to who we are as people in this city …

There’s lots of types of barbershops, but there definitely wasn’t a barbershop for us,” Brown said.

“By working in a barbershop, we’re the cornerstone of a community.

We’re relating to so many different people. You meet so many different people. You meet all these other business owners and you meet other people who know about things going on and all of a sudden, you have all these opportunities to be a part of something.”

That sentiment is what appeared to be so important to both Stannard and Brown. They view the space as not just an opportunity to give really good hair cuts, but it’s an opportunity to create a community space that’s open to anyone — regardless of age, race, sexual

orientation or gender identity.

“If anybody has hair, we’re in the business of removing it and styling it and making people feel good and look good,” Brown said.

While the shop mainly caters to those with short or medium-length hair, Stannard and Brown are so ingrained in KW’s local hair scene, that, if they’re not equipped to cut your hair, they will point you to someone who can.

Stannard explained that another new Kitchener hair studio, Good Hair Co., also opened in the same timeframe.

He said he was excited to support that team as they offer different services in the same industry.

“The young hair scene in this city is about to get a lot better,” Stannard said.

Barbering aside, Stannard and Brown have some other, more surprising, plans for the space, which is slightly larger than your expected barbershop.

They had the option to rent a smaller space, but that posed more limitations.

“Tuesday to Saturday, we do haircuts … but on the weekends, we want to do different events,” Stannard said.

Through Stannard’s side hustle, White Cap Co. — a beer-meets-neotraditional-tattoo-style apparel line — he met several local artisans and makers. Green Room will also be used to host local makers’ markets, as well as live music events.

“There are so many outlets and so many people doing super cool shit in this city. If we can support that, that’s awesome and it’s a lot of fun,” Brown said.

Green Room isn’t your average barbershop; it’s an example of how likeminded people can come together and create something grander than their original intent. Brown explained that this ability to break the mould comes from the fact that there’s no existing precedent.

“As much as barbering is traditionally so many things … when Eddie and I

started the shop, there’s no homage to history here. We cut hair, [but] none of our grandfathers were barbers, none of us grew up in a traditional shop,” Brown said.

While maybe this reads as a story about a new business opening up, it’s actually just a story about friendship.

Sure, Green Room is a place you can go for a haircut, but it’s also a place for good conversation and that personal connection that can sometimes be lost in the service industry. It’s a place to celebrate art, culture — and above all, our community.

“In hair school, they told you: don’t become friends with your clients, don’t give your clients your personal phone number, don’t hang out with your clients, because then you’ve got to be on the clock all the time,” Stannard said.

“But those exact things are what makes me love this career.”

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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KEEP YOUR EARS TO THE UNDERGROUND WORD-OF-MOUTH MUSIC SHOWS ARE GOING STRONG IN KITCHENER-WATERLOO

MELISSA EMBURY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Local musician Daniel Rolf and his roommates are creating a space for local bands, creatives and music aficionados to gather. He’s been hosting house shows for the past few years in his basement and backyard as a way to support local talent and bring people together.

House shows are quickly becoming an underground alternative to traditional commercially-owned music venues. In an age where it’s becoming increasingly hard to get a paid gig, Rolf provides opportunities where bands are paid fairly, while carefully curating the right audience of listeners.

The whole idea started when “a couple of people from the local music scene moved into a place I was living in,” he said. “They invited me to a show, and that’s when I saw my first house show. But we got a noise complaint from a band practice so we knew shows were going to be out of the question, which was kind of a huge bummer.”

When he moved into the house he

now rents with some of the same roommates, and one of his favourite local bands couldn’t find a venue, Rolf thought he’d try it again and host a house show of his own.

“It just went off really well, you know? The crowd and everything!

We did a few more shows and then bi-monthly. I would say, on average, maybe once a month here and there because that first one kind of came up and it went so well.”

“

I’D LIKE TO SEE A BIG CREATIVE MUSIC SCENE -DANIEL ROLF LOCAL MUSICIAN

”

Rolf started to think it could turn into a regular venue to host local bands. Word of mouth travelled fast in the KW underground music scene and, by the second year, they had enough people coming to shows to to charge a $10 cover and pay the bands fairly.

When asked what he thinks about the local scene and where it’s headed Rolf said:

“I look at it [the house] as a starting point. Building on this, and keeping conversations going, I’d like to see a big creative music scene where anyone can feel comfortable making the music they want to make. I had to wait quite a long time to be able to do that, and now I have a space where that’s finally possible.”

He feels that the space they created at their house shows allows for that kind of conversation, learning and creative freedom bands need without the pressure to make commercial music.

Rolf also wants people to know that KW has a lot of resources for getting started in music.

“I know the library is great for some instruments and access to audio software — they have Ableton and stuff like that. If you want to get into music, you need to get some building blocks. There’s also Fresh Ground and Commons Studio. They have a full video studio and they have people there that will help you and teach you.”

Going forward, Rolf’s vision is to open a mixed media venue space that would allow for hosting shows, with a recording studio built-in as well.

As for the next house show, keep your ears to the underground.

Highlights from the underground. DANIEL ROLF PHOTO

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DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

11

HOW TO STOCK UP FOR THE

WINTER IN WILMOT TOWNSHIP

HYPERLOCAL TRAVEL

JUANITA METZGER CONTRIBUTOR The squirrels are frantically stashing and losing and re-stashing their winter supplies of nuts, seeds and whatever else they race around for in advance of winter.

The squirrels must know that “The Old Farmer’s Almanac,” founded in 1792, is predicting an early (and long-ish) winter with frequent cold spells and above-normal precipitation and snowfall.

This translates to: Stock up now for the winter!

My suggestion: skip the regular grocery store with its jammed parking lots and head for Wilmot Township where I found everything I needed, and more. Just 20 minutes southwest of Kitchener, a day trip to Wilmot is fairly easy!

Chances are, if you’re into preserving, you’re admiring rows of canned pickles, applesauce, jams, and stewed tomatoes on the shelf and frozen corn, carrots and strawberries in the freezer.

But the holidays are just weeks away, which means a few extra parties and gatherings. Some extra goodies in the cupboard for that

unexpected drop-in make those invitations easy as pie.

Here’s your ‘stock-up’ route, beginning in New Dundee, ending in Baden.

THE NEW DUNDEE EMPORIUM Proprietors Mark Harrison and chef Danny Duchesne have the shelves stocked with jams, jellies, preserves, frozen take-home meals and baked goods all made inhouse, from the restaurant kitchen.

They will even send you recipe suggestions for making their Bacon Marmalade or Basil-Banana Pepper Jam into delicious dressings or topping for warm brie cheese.

MOUNTAIN OAK CHEESE Adam and Hannie van Bergeijk are making the freshest Dutch gouda cheese with milk straight from their 230 dairy cows on their Huron Road farm, just east of Haysville.

Find specialty flavours such as Wild Nettle, Black Truffle, Fenugreek and Celery along with their award-winning aged gouda.

Their farmstead cheese is aged onsite where someone has the task of turning each round every day. Some large wheels of cheese weigh up to 25 lbs!

SWEETS BY TOO NICE TO SLICE Not into holiday baking? Chrissie Boon and her team of baking goddesses want to bake cookies for you. You can order their 10 dozen

“Cookie Package” and pick them up at the Sweets Wilmot store on Huron Street in New Hamburg. Shortbread, jewel cookies, pecan croissants, thumbprint cookies. are ready to order in advance for select Saturday pick up dates. No doubt you’ll find a few other treats once you step foot in the door.

NITH VALLEY APIARIES Tucked on a side road between New Hamburg and Baden, in the hamlet of Luxemburg, the ‘Honey House’ at Nith Valley Apiaries smells like pure comfort to me.

Find local honey gathered from 500 hives around Waterloo and Perth regions and related products made with honey including beeswax candles, soap and food wraps. Grab some of their small-batch flavoured honey very soon. Bring your own container to fill from the bulk honey tank. It smells so good you won’t want to leave.

BADEN COFFEE COMPANY Located on Gingerich Road, Baden, this small-batch coffee roaster is the place to end your day. Grab a bowl of soup at the cafe and buy up enough freshly roasted beans to last you until the new year.

Take your cue from the squirrels — stock up early, shop local and closeto-home. Just remember where you put everything!

Support your local beekeepers. JUANITA METZGER PHOTOS

Traditional holiday meals don’t have to mean the same traditional food. CREATIVE COMMONS PHOTO

HAVING CHRISTMAS WITH THE COOKS 519 SCHMECKS

NICK BENNINGER COLUMNIST I’m often asked what a chef has for dinner at home — and special occasions usually bring even higher expectations.

I often disappoint.

My birthday dinner is usually a hot dog buffet. My death row meal — a chicken wing and pizza party.

My idea of a perfect local delicacy to show visitors to the Region — a munchy sub courtesy of Pepi’s Pizza.

All crave-able foods, but nothing fancy — and definitely not what that foodie expected when they asked.

Annually, the day after my birthday, I can look forward to puzzled faces when I reveal the simple wiener wonderland my wife Nat prepared for me the night before. It’s fun to disappoint, and frankly, I’ve been doing it since grade school.

However, sometimes it’s nice to exceed expectations instead. Thanks to the tradition and culinary courage of my family, we do just that every Christmas.

Many years ago, my family decided to swear off turkey for Christmas dinner. Instead, we challenge ourselves to concoct a different menu every year.

We often start devising next year’s menu while the leftovers still sit cooling on the happily picked over festive table.

My mom deserves most of the credit — not only for the idea but also for raising a family of food lovers and good cooks. I can’t tell you how hard I likely made that for her as a kid, but it paved the way for epic nights like these.

We have had a few rules over the years; a little structure is important.

Rule number one: the theme for each year’s menu has to be unique.

The second rule is everybody chips in. Once a theme is chosen, we each call dibs on a dish. This makes the chore of a sometimes 15-course menu less daunting and yielding some spectacular results. Picking

one dish, really digging into it, doing the research needed and even practicing it on a smaller scale has lead to some excellent dishes.

The final rule: every menu needs a pièce de résistance, a “carving” moment, a showpiece, something to respect the feeling lost by skipping turkey and robbing your drunk uncle the chance of yielding an electric carving knife like a lightsaber.

You need a moment to make the memories linger.

A few of our stand out moments?

Mom’s take on Ming Tsai’s red roasted duck, Sandy’s epic nine pound salt baked grouper cracked from its earthen like shell, the unveiling of a perfectly layered and rested beef welly.

I encourage you to try this out, it

makes for an incredible tradition, turning dinner into something a little more social, bringing the smiles back to the kitchen where they belong over the holidays.

This year we are following a Brazilian theme, and by now Nat, our “Brasileira” has sent out the assignments.

I will be cooking the famous Picanha, a treat hard to find in butcher shops this side of the equator, but worth the effort.

Check out my recipe online to try it yourself, and have a lovely holiday dinner no matter what’s on the menu.

Nick Benninger is a local chef and restaurant owner.

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

ALMOST NOSTALGIC:

CHARLES ST. TERMINAL WORDS BY MELISSA EMBURY PHOTOS BY NICK STANLEY

Looking at the now-vacant Charles Street bus terminal in downtown Kitchener, one may ask: what will become of it?

Closed as of September of this year, community members have suggested using the site for affordable housing, a recreation centre, a relocated Aud or to expand Victoria Park. In the short term, the site could be used for parking, office leases or pop-up cultural events to keep activity going on-site until it’s redeveloped.

The region plans to consult the public in a number of ways about the redevelopment, including public meetings and design brainstorming sessions.

Regional council will get a report in late spring spelling out a timeline for the project, a plan of all the studies and work that has to happen for redevelopment to proceed, along with and an estimated cost for those studies.

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DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

SHOPPING LOCAL DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR THIS LOCAL SUBSCRIPTION BOX BRINGS A VARIETY OF PRODUCTS MADE IN THE WATERLOO REGION RIGHT TO YOUR MAILBOX

THE SIDE HUSTLE

JENNA AQUINO COLUMNIST We all like to shop local where we can, but it doesn’t always feel easy or convenient – especially if you’re new to a city, prefer to shop online or perhaps aren’t a big shopper to begin with. Luckily, Kitchener’s Joyce Tannouri, full-time software developer and part-time product curator, made it simple when she created a one-of-a-kind community subscription box called KWarterly.

“The KWarterly boxes are 100 per cent local. Everything from the box itself to its contents, to the way it is shipped, is sourced here in Waterloo Region. If you’re buying a box, you’re not only supporting independent makers and business owners in the community, you’re supporting the community as a whole in ways you may not even realize,” said Tannouri.

Tannouri started curating these boxes back in Jan. of 2019 after a conversation with a group of friends during a Makers Collective meet-up in town.

“I kept meeting these amazing creatives in the community at different festivals, markets, meetups and events. I wanted to do something unique to support them.”

Each of the boxes are curated to suit a specific theme and are typically sent out on the first day of each season. For example, the summer box sported an

adventure theme and contained items like tickets to a Grand River Conservation Area park and 20 “Downtown Dollars”, to name a few.

“I want to give people a reason to get out and explore KitchenerWaterloo, a reason to try new things.

I’m originally from Ottawa, and for a long time when I first moved to KW, I didn’t really recognize how much was going on in KW. Now I know better and I love living here. I see these boxes as a way of helping other people discover that as well.”

For Tannouri, KWarterly is more than a way of distributing local products. Getting to know the creators behind them is one of the most satisfying parts of the process.

“There are so many local artisans and business owners who have either been in our community for years or are just getting started … it gives me a reason to get to know people I might have otherwise never reached out to,” said Tannouri.

Beyond coordinating a shop owner’s contribution to a box, Tannouri also collects feedback from subscribers and shares that information with the makers themselves.

“That’s where a real relationship begins to form. It’s not just this transaction where I put [their product] in the box and it’s over … I really try to make a connection with them – keep in touch and continue supporting them.”

Despite juggling a nine-to-five job, KWarterly adds a much appreciated creative balance to Tannouri’s technical career.

“It can feel like a lot of work until it all falls together, but I find it so enjoyable. When I get that feedback,

Joyce Tannouri started KWarterly to support local. NICK STANLEY PHOTO it makes me really happy and that’s important. That’s why I do it – I feel like I’m getting something extra,” said Tannouri. “It may take some time, but there is so much more I want to put into this.”

Throughout the year, three KWarterly boxes have been put out and they’ve become a rather hotcommodity in this community.

“It started off as a subscription box, but I had to cap it off at a certain number in order to sustain them.

I’m exploring ways to get around the volatility of the boxes, but since

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a lot of the products require careful crafting by individual makers, some things take longer to make than others. That said, it’s been kind of fun to dole them out to a handful of faithful first-comers each season,” Tannouri said.

For the time being anyway, the best way to get your hands on the next KWarterly box is to subscribe to their newsletter and receive notifications when it’s time to preorder. You can also follow them on Instagram @KWarterly.

“My advice for anyone out there

working on a side project is this: if you have an idea, let it grow organically. KWarterly didn’t start off as what it is now … the idea evolved completely and I just followed my urge to see it through,” said Tannouri.

“If you find yourself lying awake at night, obsessing over an idea – just start. Have faith that you can make it happen and run with it.”

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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ON OPPORTUNITIES, GROWTH AND GIVING BACK AARON WAITSON CONTRIBUTOR Kicking off the start of the holiday season in the heart of downtown Kitchener, popular grocery store Legacy Greens hosted a “Christmas Open House” on Nov. 30, bringing together local vendors and offering complimentary hot apple cider and refreshments for customers to enjoy on the upper floor of their store.

Legacy Greens opened up their space for Acre75.ca, an e-commerce site specializing in products from small towns across Canada. Owner, Virginia Ehrlich, promoted their quarterly subscription boxes and Christmas inventory, while Young Huron, a store centred on hand-stamped brass and crystal jewelry, also set up shop.

The event showcased the store’s emphasis on building relationships with other local business owners, and working together to maintain a healthy commercial presence in the DTK area.

This year, they offered something new: a donation-oriented gift wrapping service, complete with accents of dried citrus, present tags, boxwood, eucalyptus, paper bags, newspaper, cinnamon sticks, dried

apples and twine, to personalize each gift.

“I’m really into aesthetics: I like using natural aesthetics in packaging, giftwrapping, design,” said Jordan Dolson, owner and proprietor of Legacy Greens.

The proceeds will be donated to oneROOF, a youth services organization dedicated to providing assistance and resources to youth who are experiencing or are at-risk of homelessness.

The motivation for this, Dolson said, came from the perspective she’s gained since she began operating her own store.

As a business owner in downtown Kitchener for four and a half years and a former resident of Vancouver she had first hand knowledge of the issues.

“I’ve seen the reality of living in the urban core, and some of the hardships that people are dealing with in terms of addictions, trauma [and] drug use, and I personally, through all the pondering of this, just think that the best investment should be at the adolescent level,” Dolson said.

“I have a personal interest in that age group specifically, so that’s where that initiative is. But I don’t do enough volunteer work or outreach or fundraising — so this is a newer thing for me. I feel like I want to invest more of my personal time and energy with youth that are between 13 and 20.”

Giving opportunities for professional growth and experience to youth,

like the two grade nine boys who volunteered at the event, are important to Dolson, who is interested in nurturing employment-oriented skillsets for younger people.

Following the success of the open house, Dolson is preparing for her next holiday-themed event on Christmas Eve, which will offer a series of edible or consumable product boxes available for purchase: including a “citrus” box, “reindeer” box and a “holiday host” box.

“One thing with the holidays, in terms of my own personal values and my business, [is] I’m not all about just trying to get you to buy a bunch of [things]. I’m interested in consumable gifts, so a lot of the gifts that we sell here are food-focused or they’re bodycare products that you will use — so you won’t accumulate ‘stuff’,” Dolson said.

“I just feel like consumable gifts are where it’s at, and if we can make them seasonal and delicious, and also exciting, that is where I feel like Legacy Greens can make an impact over the holidays.”

Especially around this time of the year, Dolson sees it as essential that local businesses support and help each other grow, cross-promote, and be leaders in creating and nurturing a sense of community in the KitchenerWaterloo area.

“A big part of our business is not the product, but the experience and the relationships we have with our

Legacy Greens on Ontario street. Albiet in the summer, remember the summer?

NICK STANLEY FILE PHOTO customers: making an effort to learn their names, noticing things about them, asking them questions about their life,” Dolson said.

At the end of the day, Dolson wishes to provide people with an enjoyable seasonal shopping experience that doesn’t push wasteful and senseless spending.

“I just want people to celebrate the

holidays in a bit of a less stressful way, so that’s where it’s hard for me, personally, to be pushing product around the holidays,” Dolson said.

As a retailer she struggles with the internal conflict between her love of food and the business.

“I love food, so I want to sell you as much delicious food as possible,” Dolson said.

ENDING VIOLENCE

AGAINST SEX WORKERS

SEXPLANATIONS

RECALL: Dec. 8 & 11 RETRO CHRISTMAS VACATION CINEMA: Dec. 13 DRUNKEN FRIDAY 13TH PART VI FOR MEMBERS: Dec. 14 FREE ELF RECALL: Dec. 15 & 19 RETRO GREMLINS + MARKET: Dec. 17 MOVIE LOVE ACTUALLY BAD SWEATER Dec. 20 ZOMBIE SINGALONG:

ANNA & THE APOCALYPSE

A P O L L O C I N E M A . C A

STACEY JACOBS COLUMNIST Dec. 17 is International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. A day for sex workers, their families, friends, advocates and allies to remember people they have lost.

The goal is to bring attention to the criminalization of sex work that creates the stigma, discrimination and hate that breeds physical and sexual violence, including murder, against members of our communities.

Sex workers are members of our communities. Members deserve the right to be safe, valued and respected. The Sex Workers Action Network of Waterloo Region (SWAN) is a non-partisan group, including individuals with lived experience, agencies and groups committed to recognizing and honouring individuals working in sex work. I am proud and humbled to be part of this network which strives for the safety, support and choice of all sex workers.

Most do not think sex work could possibly be a choice people willingly make. However, many people make that chioice for various reasons: flexible work hours, earning more than minimum wage, feeling empowered and doing exactly what it is they want to do. They are not “selling” their bodies. They are selling labour, just like the rest of us. Anyone who makes money using their body to get it is.

Suggesting that sex work should not be a choice robs people of their agency and suggests they do not have the capacity to make such a decision — a decision, interestingly

enough, that others feel they can morally make for them. Sex work is not the same as human trafficking, which is forced and provides no control or freedom over working conditions, profits or the ability to leave. It is not a choice. Sex work is.

Many people are uncomfortable with sex. This is unfortunate and I wish it was not so. However, I think this discomfort plays into fear, disgust and hate of sex work, work we could not imagine doing ourselves. There is a lot of work I could not imagine myself doing. This does not mean I should, or would, tell someone else they cannot do it.

Criminalizing sex work does not get rid of sex work. It does, however, force it underground, which makes it harmful and dangerous to those involved. It leaves sex workers vulnerable to violence as they cannot go to the police or access support and services that others can. It especially means sex workers with already marginalized identities such as Indigenous people, people of colour and trans folks face unnecessary violence.

This violence is preventable.

Decriminalizing sex work to ensure people can go to work without fear of being arrested would significantly increase safety, decrease stigma and create a more harmonious community.

Please stand with us on Dec. 17, as we take a stand against the stigma, criminalization and violence that sex workers undeservingly endure.

We will be at Café Pyrus from 3-4 p.m. for solidarity, speakers and snacks, followed by a die-in outside Kitchener City Hall from 4-4:30 p.m.

We encourage you to wear red to show solidarity with the sex workers in your community.

Stacey Jacobs is the sexual health educational manager at SHORE.

DECEMBER 2019 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

15

EVENT LISTINGS

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21

HOLIGAY MARKET FRESH GROUND CAFE

INDIGENOUS ART MARKET KITCHENER CITY HALL

TWB CO-OPERATIVE BREWING

Join Rainbow Reels’ for their third magically queer market and zine fair, where you can shop from tables of trinkets from some of the most talented LGBTQ+ makers in the Region. The market will act as a fundraiser for the Rainbow Reels Queer and Trans Film Festival.

Everyone is welcome attend.

I Am Kitchener presents their second Indigenous Art Market just in time for you to scratch all the names off your Christmas shopping list. You can shop from over 20 local Indigenous makers and crafters as they present their authentic pieces of art, jewelery, crafts and other handmade goods.

Do you enjoy the hypertension and sweaty palms that accompany last minute holiday shopping? Us, too.

TWB understands that grind as each year they essentially save lives by hosting this last minute market. Sip back on a brew and snack on some apps as you filter through tables full of trinkets from local vendors.

Market • Free • 9am - 2pm

Indigenous Art • Free • 11am - 5pm

Market • Free • 11am - 4pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25

ZERO WASTE BULK ANNIVERSARY ZERO WASTE BULK

MAKE AND TAKE WORKSHOP IDEA EXCHANGE

CHRISTMAS DAY

Congratulations to Zero Waste Bulk for hitting the one year mark!

Celebrating all things sustainable, they’re offering donuts as long as you bring your own container and who can resist a mouthful of sugary sweetness? Fun fact, they’ve diverted over 30,000 pieces of packaging from landfills by BYOC.

Avoid the paper cuts and the long lines at check outs by crafting your very own holiday ornament with Play with Clay! This event is a free, drop-in session for all ages with all of the materials being provided. Bring your grandparents, the toddler you need to preoccupy for an hour and a teaspoon of joy to get super crafty.

The day reindeers prance all across town and coffees are topped to the brim with Baileys has finally arrived.

So slip into your pajama set and curl up on the couch to enjoy the holiday. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, you deserve to enjoy a day off, so nibble on a sugar cookie and hug all of your pals real hard.

Fundraiser • Free • 10am - 7pm

Workshop • Free • 1 - 2pm

Holiday • Free • All day

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30

AYCE CEREAL CARTOONS PARTY: HOLIDAY

APOLLO CINEMA

FESTIVE FLORAL WORKSHOP THE OPEN SPACE

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY YOGA WATERLOO WAYSIDE

Pack your own spoon and (reasonably sized) bowls for this morning filled with holiday nostalgia!

Children may not appreciate the privilege that was Saturday morning cartoon binges, but Apollo does and we know you do, too. You’ll see both faves and obscurities spanning the ‘60s through the ‘80s. Oh my.

Despite their event page consisting of 11 words, a floral workshop is always a hit. Just think of the fresh, floral and pine smells in the air that afternoon! Also, there’s no better way than one upping your siblings than creating your very own festive, floral centerpiece for your holiday dinner and flexing your skills.

Hosted every Monday, this unique program was built for individuals living with dementia. Each person will have their very own yoga buddy with them during the session, whether it be a caregiver or support worker, or one of their volunteers.

Make sure to register online prior to venturing to this afternoon of yoga.

Entertainment • $10-14 • 11am

Workshop • $115 • 2 - 3:30pm

Exercise • Free • 11am - 1pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

PETER CLARK HALL - GUELPH

FEMINIST HOLIDAY MARKET

MOVIE & MARKET APOLLO CINEMA

NOON YEAR’S EVE PARTY WATERLOO PUBLIC LIBRARY

Just a casual afternoon of dismantling the patriarchy while purchasing your holiday gifts as you support and showcase women, non-binary, BIPOC, LGBTIQQ2+ and folx living with disabilities. A little activism, a hint of spice and mixture of intersectional feminism. The location is completely accessible.

Playing the movie all of our hearts yearn for the moment the snow hits, Love Actually, Apollo is making all the moons align. As they spotlight a handful of the most talented local artisans as you snack on some freshly popped corn. The film starts an hour after the scheduled time, so you can fill your baskets to the brim.

Perfect for the parents or caretakers of little ones to countdown until the noon-year. There will be music, crafts, balloons and so much more excitement happening in their main library. So parents, head to this event to celebrate then splurge on a sitter and go have a glass, or 17, of champagne yourself. You deserve it.

Market • PWYC • 12 - 5pm

Film • $5-12 • 5:45 - 9:15pm

Celebration • Free • 11am - 12:01pm

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

WINE & WOOD WREATH WORKSHOP

KITCHENER FARMERS MARKET

BREWER’S BRASS QUARTET TWB CO-OPERATIVE BREWING

EVERYWHERE

You’ll receive a step-by-step guide on how to construct your very own rustic wreath while sipping on a hearty glass of wine! Despite having doubts about mixing construction and alcohol, we believe you can work your way around the large branches and fresh, locally-sourced greens and decorations. Good luck.

One of our favorite local breweries is hosting Brewer’s Brass Quartet as they feature some holiday favorites as you indulge in some of their latest releases. They have beer, they have trombones, and they have a jingles you can sway your hips to.

What more do you want out of a Wednesday evening? Nothing.

No pressure or anything but this is the last evening of the entire decade, so put your party boots on and drink enough to forget that time has flown by this quickly. I know we’re in complete denial. Also, do not forget to secure yourself a designated driver and to know your limits because being responsible is cute.

Workshop • $50 • 7 - 9pm

Music • Free • 7 - 9pm

Celebration • Free • All Day

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18-19

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1

12 DAYS OF BEERSMAS BEER EXCHANGE

WITCH & WELLNESS YULETIDE POP UP

AFTERLIFE: THE SEANCE EXPERIENCE

This event will easily spark joy in beer lovers hearts across the Region, as you’ll load your sac up with 12 identical cans of craft beer and TWB’s crafty elves will swap them out with the other attendees treasures. By 9 p.m., you’ll be heading home with a box full of 12 beers to enjoy up until Christmas Eve. P.S., no homebrew.

Celebrate yule in the witchiest of ways as you join them for two magical filled days! Tarot cards, psychic readings, soul tattoos, crystals and a DIY bracelet bar and much, much more. Sport your very own crystal studded jackets as you wade your wicked way through this enchanting market of magic.

In the hopes you aren’t too hungover to saying goodbye to an entire decade, join this guided tour featuring the ghost of Thomas Lacey.

You’ll be led through many intimate and immersive exhibits, the perfect remedy to cure those headaches and appease the spirits around you. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes prior.

Beer • Free • 6 - 9pm

Market • Free • 1pm

Fun • $22 • 5 - 8:30pm

TWB CO-OPERATIVE BREWING

THE MIDNIGHT RAVEN

COMMUNITYEDITION.CA @THECOMMUNITYED

LAST MINUTE MARKET

ALL OVER

NEWS YEARS EVE

THE MUSEUM

WRAP YOUR GIFTS IN TCE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON