FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 11 No. 12 MUSIC DECEMBER FOOD 2020 CULTURE thewalleye.ca
Home for the Holidays 64 Local Gift Ideas
THE DROWNING GIRLS 37
A COVID SKI SEASON 68
DECK THE HAULS 87
ZOOM OR BUST? 114
Xmas
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Contents
walle eye the
■ 7 JB Evan's TheTOPFive
Thunder Bay’s arts & culture alternative
FEATURES
Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Interim Editor Matt Prokopchuk matt@thewalleye.ca Assistant Editor Rebekah Skochinski Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Bonnie Schiedel
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FOOD
Marketing & Sales Specialists Kaitlin Trevisan kaitlin@thewalleye.ca Alaina Linklater alaina@thewalleye.ca Photographers Patrick Chondon, Kevin Dempsey, Damien Gilbert, Aelin Foster, Chad Kirvan, Dave Koski, Kay Lee, Shannon Lepere, Marty Mascarin, Darren McChristie, Sarah McPherson, Laura Paxton, Keegan Richard
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Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D., Dave Koski, R.G.D. production@thewalleye.ca Ad Designers Dave Koski, Keegan Richard, Miranda van den Berg The Walleye is a free monthly publication distributed on racks throughout Thunder Bay and region. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission is strictly forbidden. Views expressed herein are those of the author exclusively.
FILM&THEATRE
■ 33 THE SECOND MOST
PLEASURABLE THING WE DO IN THE DARK. A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES ■ 34 Championship Nostalgia ■ 37 The Drowning Girls ■ 38 Scene and Roll ■ 40 Theatre in the New Reality
■ 44 Travelling Far for the
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Perfect Shot ■ 47 FROM THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION ■ 48 Tattooing Through Heartbreak and Uncertainty ■ 50 A Labour of Love and Loss ■ 52 Maud Lewis and the Secret to Staying Home
OUTDOOR
■ 54 Catching the Superior Wave
All Rights Reserved.
Superior Outdoors Inc. 242 - 1100 Memorial Avenue Thunder Bay, ON P7B 4A3
■ 20 THE GRINNING BELLY ■ 21 DRINK OF THE MONTH ■ 23 BREW IT YOURSELF ■ 24 Dinner With Style ■ 26 SUPERIOR SIP ■ 28 Return to Babylon ■ 30 Fueling Up
THE ARTS
Copyright © 2020 by Superior Outdoors Inc. Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.
■ 11 Home for the Holidays ■ 12 Trendsetter ■ 13 Foodie ■ 14 Music Fan ■ 15 Outdoor Enthusiast ■ 16 Health Crusader ■ 17 Pet Lover ■ 18 Curator ■ 19 Entertainer
CITYSCENE
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■ 56 Continuing the Conversation ■ 58 Silver Anniversary ■ 60 EYE TO EYE: With Lisa Laco ■ 65 THIS IS THUNDER BAY ■ 66 WALL SPACE: Respecting the Space
■ 68 A COVID Ski Season ■ 73 Reclaiming Territory
Through Language ■ 75 GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET ■ 77 The Bookshelf ■ 78 Reclaiming Space ■ 80 Invisible Barriers ■ 82 Sweatin’ it Out ■ 84 A Taste of Home ■ 87 CANNABIS CORNER ■ 88 ‘Tis the Season of Giving Back ■ 90 A New Space for a Safe Space
MUSIC
■ 93 Open Mic ■ 94 Nick Sherman’s Silver Linings ■ 99 Performing in the New Normal ■ 100 BURNING TO THE SKY ■ 103 Combining Forces ■ 104 Kristy Tucker
■ 106 OFF THE WALL REVIEWS ARCHITECTURE
■ 108 The Ruttan Block ■ 110 Tbaytel DECEMBER
EVENTS GUIDE
■ 111 LU RADIO'S
MONTHLY TOP 20 HEALTH
■ 113 Moderation in the Time of COVID-19 ■ 114 Zoom or Bust?
GREEN
■ 117 A Green Holiday Season THE WALL
■ 118 Half-Full, Half-Empty ■ 120 HOROSCOPES ■ 121 THE BEAT ■ 122 THE EYE
Telephone (807) 344-3366 Fax (807) 623-5122 E-mail: info@thewalleye.ca
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From Our Instagram Feed
‘Tis the Season
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The Walleye
compiled a list of books by local authors and editors. Also in our December issue, Nancy Saunders has the story on Peter Panetta of The Underground Gym about the challenges they’ve faced over the past year and the overwhelming community support that poured forth. Susan Goldberg speaks with the creators of Canadaland’s Return to Thunder Bay podcast, while Ayano Hodouchi Dempsey learns more about the two local artists who created the artwork for the series. Also, in time for the holidays, Jeannie Dubois and Josh Armstrong, our drink and homebrew columnists respectively, give some gift-giving ideas of their own. As this is our last issue of 2020, we’d also like to send a heartfelt thank you to our extremely dedicated and talented team of contributors, as well as our present and past advertisers. This publication simply wouldn’t exist without the support we receive. We also know that we wouldn’t exist without you, our readers, so a massive thank you for your continued support, not only of us, but of the artists, businesses, and organizations we feature. 2020 has been a crazy and unpredictable year. Here’s hoping for a happy, safe, and healthy holiday season and start to the new year. - Matt Prokopchuk
Featured Contributor Ken Wright
Blair Wright
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have to admit, I’ve never really been huge on doing a massive decorating job at my home for the holidays. I don’t know if the thought of doing so just gets lost in the general busyness of the season or what, but since moving into my home about eight years ago, the only thing I really make a point of doing every year is pulling out my miniature Christmas-treein-a-pot and decorating it with a handful of antique ornaments that my mom gave me. Some of them I actually remember hanging on our Christmas trees when I was a child. And while I always look forward to this little pre-Christmas routine, it often gets left to–if not the last minute–then maybe the last five. This year, however, I’m already thinking about getting that tree and the ornaments out of storage and lighting it up. It’s been such a strange year that just looking forward to a piece of normalcy in the lead-up to a holiday season that promises to be anything but, is somehow comforting. For us here at The Walleye, we’re continuing to do what we traditionally do in our December issue: send the elves out to source some neat, unique gift ideas from local artists, artisans, and retailers, for the entertainers, music fans, pet lovers, health crusaders, outdoors enthusiasts, curators, foodies, and trendsetters in your life. We’ve also
Ken Wright with granddaughter Emma
For retired letter carrier Ken Wright, friendship, food, wine, and blues music are lifelong passions. He served on the board of directors for the Thunder Bay Blues Society for 10 years and has written the performer profiles for the Thunder Bay Blues Festival since its inception in 2002. Ken has contributed articles and CD reviews to The Walleye. A big fan of history, he hopes to resume travels to Europe post-COVID.
On the Cover Winter at the Marina Digital illustration by Westermann Creative, westermanncreative.com
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A ONE-STOP SHOP
H O L I D AY S T O R E H O U R S M o n - W e d 1 0 - 5 | T h u r s & Fr i 1 0 - 6 | S a t 1 0 - 5 | S u n d a y s 1 2 - 4 S h o p o n l i n e at w w w. j b e v a n s . c a 6
The Walleye
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JB Evan's TheTOPFive
Maud Lewis
Until January 3, 2021 Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Escape the cold and enjoy the art of one of Canada’s most beloved folk artists. Maud Lewis’s collection of paintings depict rural Nova Scotia and the rugged way of life in the Maritimes throughout the 40s, 50s, and 60s. Her pieces provide a documentary of the changing life that is deeply nostalgic and follows the era of horse and buggy to the progression of the fishing industry. Find inspiration in an artist who overcame great personal obstacles to see the beauty in her surroundings, while creating colourful landscapes and whimsical creatures. This exhibition marks the first time the gallery has shown Lewis’s work so make sure you take it in while you can. Check the website for holiday hours and please remember to wear a mask or face covering! theag.ca/maud-lewis CFFI Ventures Inc./John Risley
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December 2–23 Various
Join Red Lion for some fun and festive events this December! Get ready for a Tap Takeover with the Muskoka Brewery on December 2, then get your groove on with Music Bingo (instead of calling out numbers, their DJ plays the music). There’s also Caroloke (Christmas carols meets karaoke), and Arts & Craft Beer night to decorate cookies—tickets include a pint of beer or wine and half a dozen xmas cookies to bring home. And don’t miss Quizzmas, the last quiz night of the year. Plus, stay tuned for other things in the works like Slay Belles: Drag Brunch and Drag Queen Music Bingo. NB: Check their website for the exact dates and times as some events might be moved online. Be safe, be merry! facebook.com/redlionsmokehouse
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RetroGraduate-X2 Art Show Mary McPherson
Definitely Superior Art Gallery Support artists of the future! You’re invited to Definitely Superior Art Gallery’s Double Gala Art Opening on December 5. This exciting multidisciplinary art convergence will feature artwork from the Lakehead University RetroGraduate Exhibition. The exhibition will include work that has been selected from major studio graduates over the period of their four-year program, as well as new works from Lakehead Visual Arts 2019 and 2020 graduates. For the gala opening reception there will be art, music, performances, and a tempting array of catered refreshments. Some of the featured artists will also be in attendance! Choose from two time slots for the gala opening: early bird at 4–7 pm or night owl at 8–11 pm. Please note that public health gathering restrictions will apply and you must pre-register via Eventbrite. definitelysuperior.com
December 3–20
Willow Springs Creative Centre
Shop the 12 days of Christmas at the Willow Springs Holiday Market. On Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 4 pm you will find a wonderful selection of locally made artisan wares and food items. Located in Lappe in the old Koski’s store, this intimate shopping experience will include recycled wool sweater mitts by Kaisa Penttinen, soap and shampoo bars by Bubble Ohs, jewelry, woven and knit shawls and hats by Lacewood Fibre Studio, nature-inspired ornaments, fresh evergreen wreaths, willow signs, pottery by Up at Dawn, illustrative works by H. Wainio, gift baskets, and more. Along with delicious offerings from the Willow Springs kitchen there will be amazing food vendors on hand offering baking, handforaged tea, perogies, preserves, empanadas, spring rolls, and wontons. Fill up on good things! facebook.com/willowspringsCC
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December 5–January 2
Willow Springs Holiday Market
TBSO December Chamber Concerts
December 4 & 18
Virtual
It’s a Christmas wish come true! For two weekends in December, the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra will bring some light and joy to the holiday season. Offerings include Marvels of Europe—an exploration of music rooted in a rich folk heritage balanced by a contemporary feel, like Szervánszky’s Woodwind Quintet and Bacewicz’s String Quartet No. 4. Darkness and Light will showcase the spectacular symphonic sounds of Shostakovich; Snow Blowers will see the TBSO turning the spotlight on the woodwinds and brass with a mix of classical and contemporary holiday favourites (and special guests); and Mistlebows, which will include Corelli’s Christmas concerto (a holiday tradition for nearly 300 years) and wonderful works by Howard Blake, Josef Suk and more. There will be two shows streamed at 6:30 pm and at 8:30 pm. tbso.ca
Chondon Photography
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Red Lion December Events
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r e a a e f s ew e h t of
our favourite things
find the perfect gifts for the fresh air obsessed on your list 7 10 BAL MORAL STRE ET 10 The Walleye
F RE SHAIR.LOCA L LY.C O M
CoverStory
Home for the Holidays 64 Local Gift Ideas
If we’ve learned anything this year, it’s just how important it is to think about others. And when you get right down to it, that’s the true meaning of the holiday season! So even if we can’t gather and celebrate the way we used to, we can all do our part to share some warmth, good cheer, and maybe a gift or two from our annual gift guide. We love creating this list because it reminds us of our wonderful close-knit community of businesses, shops, and makers. This year they’ve shone especially bright to help us through some darker times. Let’s all continue to help one another and help spread some joy!
Keegan Richard
-Rebekah Skochinski
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CoverStory
Trendsetter
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trend-set-ter a person who leads the way in fashion or ideas By Rebekah Skochinski 1
Merino Toque
We can bear-ly contain our excitement about this North Standard Trading Post toque. A proudly Canadian company known for its quality, gender-neutral goods, and trademark mascot bear label, NSTP’s toque is a half-and-half merino wool and acrylic blend ideal for the person who digs a classic look with a hint of playfulness. One size fits all. Grin and bear it! J.B. Evans Fashions & Footwear $35 2 Sleeping with the Stars Hoodie
Like a hug you can wear, these Ungalli hoodies are great for working from home or chilling at home. This guaranteed wardrobe staple blends casual comfort with the iconic Sleeping Giant in all of its starry glory. It is unisex, ethically manufactured in Canada using non-toxic dyes, made from recycled plastic and organic cotton, in a soothing shade of grey that will flatter everyone. An ideal gift for those who call Thunder Bay home or for those who miss it dearly. Ungalli Clothing Co.
Herschel Hip Pack
You can call them hip packs, fanny packs, or shoulder packs, but all you really need to know is that this popular look is only gaining momentum since re-appearing on the scene a few years ago. Mars. carries a variety of styles, patterns, and colours from understated to super swank. The packs are perfect for going hands-free and stashing all the necessary PPE. We especially love the exposed zippers and signature striped lining. Compact, convenient, coveted, cool. mars. clothing Starting at $37.97 4 Pre-Shaving & Beard Oil
Pamper your main man’s mane with luxurious products from Evoke. There are three items in this newly released Davines line, but we’re partial to this pre-shaving and beard oil for its versatility as a preshaving product and a conditioning beard treatment to add softness and shine. Made from ultra-moisturizing almond and jojoba oils, it has a vibrant citrus fragrance and is a sure-fire stocking stuffer for the guy who wants the latest and greatest thing. Evoke Salon & Spa Starting at $30
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SGB Socks
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Looking fashionable happens from tip to toe, and we can’t get enough of these custom statement socks from Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. They combine a love of local beer with a bright pop of colour and pattern. Can’t you just picture your plus one curled up in front of a fire with their feet up in a pair of these? We can. Choose from striped, graphic logger, and happy-golucky blue and yellow. Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.
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$15.99 6
Travel Wallet
Break from the traditional with this beautiful travel wallet designed by Oglala Sioux artist Maxine Noel. The featured Mother Winter landscape serves as a wonderful reminder of the resilience and beauty of the season. Made of synthetic leather, the wallet includes a protective pouch, is packed in an elegant box, and can double as a clutch purse, as the wrist strap is detachable.
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Authentique $46.99 7
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Local Love Tee
There is a lot to love here! Set the tone for a merry holiday and heart-filled new year with a purchase that supports the community and recognizes the good work by the people who live here. This Local Love unisex super soft tri-blend tee was designed by the amazing Sonya Lacroix and makes a solid layering piece. Plus, $10 from each shirt sold supports the Underground Gym. Giving back is a trend that all of us can follow. Superior Screen Printing
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$35 8
Cufflinks
When the occasion calls for a suit jacket (if you ask your stylish friend, that’s not often enough), these cufflinks will add a handsome detail to complete the look. Crafted by local contemporary and multi-disciplinary artist Cree Stevens, the cufflinks are made with wigwas (birchbark), and a combination of pure (raw, not plated) copper on the bezel and brass on the link. Thunder Bay Country Market $60
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Foodie
foo-die a person with a particular interest in food; a gourmet 1
By Amy Jones
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1 Wrong Side of the Tracks Porter
5 Heartbeat Hot Sauce Christmas Four-Pack
Impress the beer lover on your list this Christmas with this double chocolate milkshake porter from our friends at LOTW in Kenora. A medium-bodied beer with copper highlights, Wrong Side of the Tracks tastes of chocolate, coffee, and biscuit, so it’s not a bad idea to leave one or two under the tree for Santa, too.
If you’re looking for a red-hot gift this holiday season, look no further than Heartbeat Hot Sauce. This four-pack features their four signature flavours— jalapeño, red habanero, pineapple habanero, and blueberry habanero—as well as a sticker pack and a wooden Christmas ornament. Available online, or at Tomlin and Barkeep.
Lake of the Woods Brewing Company
Heartbeat Hot Sauce
$12.79 per 4 pack/$73.70 per 24 pack
$50
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DIY Kombucha Kit
If you’re not familiar with this lightly effervescent, fermented, sweetened tea drink, don’t worry—the foodie on your list knows exactly what kombucha is. And chances are they’ll love this DIY kombucha kit from Narrow Gate, which has everything they need to start fermenting on their own, including a $10 coupon for their first online order.
It looks like a flask of whisky, but inside it is pure, northern Ontario-sourced maple goodness from the folks at CanWest Maple. And while we can’t make any promises, we’re pretty sure gifting this pretty bottle entitles you to an invite to at least one future pancake breakfast. You can’t go wrong!
Narrow Gate
$9.50
$40 3
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6 Whisky Flask Bottle Maple Syrup
Hand Pie Basket
Canada West Maple Products 7 The Cheese Encounter Gift Baskets
We bet that even just reading the words “hand pie basket” has you drooling. What’s even better about this gift basket from local hand pie legends pie.ology is you can customize your basket to include as many pies and flavours as you wish. The only hard part will be not eating them all before you give them away.
Let the folks at the Cheese Encounter make your gift-giving easy this year with a gift basket—a curated mix of various imported, Canadian, and local cheeses and accoutrements (such as crackers, jellies, mustards, chocolate, oils, or vinegars), available at different price points. Pre-ordering is recommended.
Pie.ology
The Cheese Encounter
$6 per pie
Starting at $50
4 Mulling Spices
8 Monthly Pasta
Spice up someone’s stocking this Christmas with this mulling spice mix from International House of Tea, made with fresh ground coriander seeds, cinnamon bark, cassia bark, ginger root, star anise seeds, clove buds, cassia buds, and cardamom seeds. You might as well pick up some for your own stocking as well—naughty or nice, we all deserve a little cosiness on a cold winter’s night!
Subscription Card
International House of Tea
A foodie’s dream come true, the monthly pasta subscription from Big Lake Pasta is back this year, and better than ever. The card entitles the holder to 12 packs of fresh or dried pasta throughout the year, and with no expiry, the ability to redeem multiple monthly stamps at the same time, and the chance to sample their new dried shapes and flavours, it really is the gift that keeps on giving.
$7
Big Lake Pasta $50
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CoverStory
Music Fan
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mus-ic fan a person who believes that music makes the world go ‘round; a toe-tapper By Matt Prokopchuk 1
XVive U2 Transmitter
5 Vintage Audio
You can help the musician in your life remove those annoying audio cables from their practice area or (eventually) the stage, and go wireless. One transmitter from this handy device plugs into your guitar or bass while its partner goes into an amp, PA system, or even a recording device. Battery life lasts up to five hours.
Is there someone on your list who still has no use for the latest streaming services and insists that music just isn’t worth listening to unless it’s played on physical media? (Guilty!) Comix Plus Music Exchange believes that no format truly goes out of vogue, as you can find albums on ever-popular vinyl, as well as CD and even cassette tape.
Backstage
Comix Plus Music Exchange
$199
$Various
2 Food for the Soul Coupons
6 Yamaha PSR-E463 PSR E-Series Keyboard
Different from your standard gift card, Food for the Soul coupons from the TBSO can be used like cash at many different businesses around Thunder Bay, but vendors then donate 20% of the coupon’s value back to the orchestra. With COVID-19 drastically changing the TBSO’s season, fundraisers like this become even more important—and the music lover on your list can shop for that perfect meal or local good.
A great entry-level 61-key keyboard for anyone who wants to tickle the (synthesizer) ivories, the Yamaha PSR-E463 features over 700 highquality voices and instrument sounds, as well as functions for capturing samples and creating your own grooves. A USB audio recorder can also capture up to 80 minutes of music.
Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra $10 and $20 denominations
Bose Soundbar 500
arleycox.com/store 8 Band Tees
Do you know a young, budding drummer or mallet instrument player? These steel tongue drums by Amahi Ukuleles, and available at Toy Sense in 6-inch and 8-inch sizes in red, blue, and teal, produce different notes depending on where you strike them. They’re crafted from high-carbon steel and professionally tuned.
When just listening to the music isn’t enough, you can help the music lover on your list represent their favourite bands and artists in public. High Tide Tattoo Parlour carries a wide range of T-shirts of punk, metal, hardcore, and psychobilly artists. Pins and patches are also available for under $10.
Toy Sense
From $10
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$25–$30
Drums
$109.99–$139.99
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7 Arley Cox – Letter Kite Sessions
$699.99 4 Amahi Steel Tongue
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$399.99
The Power Centre
Soundbars take a TV’s sound to the next level, and Bose has long been a leader in the home audio market. The Soundbar 500 features customdesigned drivers that keep size to a minimum, while not sacrificing audio quality. Built-in capability for Alexa also means you don’t have to deal with yet another remote control.
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Music World Academy
Thunder Bay’s Arley Cox has released her latest album and for the blues fan on your list, this gift will go over well. Cox recorded the album live at The Foundry with The Roosters as her backing band, so the album features plenty of local talent. Letter Kite Sessions can be purchased from Arley’s website (from where albums purchased will be signed by Arley and include a hand-written note). You can also find it at Fresh Air and Indigo.
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CoverStory
Outdoor Enthusiast 2
out·door en·thu·si·ast a person who lives for outdoor sports and activities and appreciates true wilderness By Michelle McChristie 1
Alice Jacket
With La Niña expected to bring more snow and cooler temperatures than average, why not keep your loved one warm and cosy with a jacket from Quartz Co.? This classic winter coat is rated to -30°C and is made in Canada with responsibly sourced down and fur.
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Fresh Air 4
$1,000 2
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Gentleman’s Knife
Sure, it might be called the “Gentleman’s Knife,” but any outdoor enthusiast knows that a good pocket knife is an essential tool. TRUE’s two-and-a-half-inch drop point blade is crafted from durable and dependable stainless steel. The sleek rosewood handle and lanyard hole are stylish and practical; includes a wooden gift box. KBM $39.99 6
3 Faber North Lander Snowshoe
Faber has been making snowshoes since 1870 and their North Lander snowshoes have a simple, yet very efficient design featuring Faber’s patented decking and a strong 3/4" cambered aluminum frame, which increases flotation and rebound action.
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Gear Up For Outdoors $169.99 4 Wolfhead Toque
There is nothing better than the smell of fresh coffee wafting through a camp or tent on a cool morning. Local roaster Wolfhead Coffee not only sells exceptional beans, they also have exceptional merch, like these suave toques!
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wolfheadcoffee.com $30
5 Bottle Cap Fishing Lure
Get hooked on your favourite SGBC beer with a flagship bottle cap lure. Made from recycled bottle caps, the lures are available in four designs: Northern Logger, Hoppet, Mr. Canoehead, and Skull Rock. They are recommended for a variety of fish but, really, aren’t we all going for walleye? Sleeping Giant Brewing Company $8.99 6 Half Day Zodiac Tours
Perfect for adrenaline junkies! Treat yourself and up to nine of your favourite people to a fast and thrilling five-hour zodiac tour. Four destinations are available: Sawyer Bay (hike the Giant), Spar Island (hike to the Top of the World Lookout), Thompson Island (hike and sauna), and Caribou Island (beachcombing, swimming, and bonfire). Includes a guide ashore and captain. Sail Superior $1,395 7 Old Fashioned Waffle Iron
This classic cast iron waffle iron can be used on a stove or campfire for light, golden waffles at camp or out on the trail. Made by Rome Industries, based just down the road in Madison, WI, this gift is built to last. Chaltrek $42 8 Local Food Mug
Help Roots to Harvest provide low-income community members with access to healthy food while supporting local farmers, producers, and harvesters. $15 from the sale of each mug is donated to the Local Food Resiliency Fund, which enables R2H to purchase local food to include in their community meals and food markets. Roots to Harvest $25
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CoverStory
Health Crusader
heal-th cru-sa-der a person who is focused on well-being and likes to keep an eye on their pulse
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By Kat Lyzun 1
Wellness Reset
There’s no question: we are so done with 2020. Give a loved one this beautiful package from The Bodymind Centre so they can start 2021 rested and rejuvenated. The Wellness Reset pass is a phenomenal deal on a 30-day experience beginning January 11 that includes yoga, Pilates, reformer resistance training, tai chi, sound therapy, nutrition classes, mindset seminars, meditation and more. Finish 30 classes for the chance to win great prizes, including $500 worth of lululemon gear. Bodymind Centre $129
Garmin VivoSport Fitness Tracker 2
Help the fitness guru in your life stay on top of their game with the sleek and powerful Garmin VivoSport. With its built in GPS, VivoSport can track distance, time, and speed outdoors and in. Pair it to your smartphone and experience the full range of features including music, messages, and mapping routes with Garmin Connect. Wear it on a run, a ski, a swim, or a rec room cardio session. Or wear it to work, since its all-day stress-tracking feature can help you stay in touch with your body’s response to potential stressors. KBM Outdoors $219.99 3
Complex Monthly Membership
Have a family member or friend who always says they should go to the gym, but never gets past the first step? Nudge them along on their fitness journey with a month-long membership to the Canada Games Complex. Includes unlimited access to the pool, gym, track, and drop-in classes. Strict cleaning and physical distancing measures are in place to ensure everyone can safely enjoy the facility. Keep fit and have fun! Canada Games Complex $60 4
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When the owner of Tim’s Whole Health saw a need for a cleaner protein powder free of artificial sweeteners, colours, flavours, and fillers, he decided to go ahead and make his own. Tim has created a brand-new whey protein isolate formula that uses only natural ingredients like stevia for sweetening and natural chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavours (or plain if you like). Locally designed and produced in Ontario, it is super versatile and blends easily into drinks and yummy baked treats. Bonus: $1 from every sale is donated to local charities. Tim’s Whole Health $22.99 for 1lb /$39.99 for 2 lb 6
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Essential Oil Blends
You can’t go wrong with gifting your harried best friend/sibling/parent a lovely local essential oil product from the wellness alchemists at Babes + Blends. They have rollers, sprays, and soaks to help with everything from headaches and sleep issues to stress relief and cranky toddlers (all entirely unrelated). For the holidays they have special blends like Nana’s Apple Pie to wrap you in warm nostalgia, and Tree Farm for a refreshing “just walked in the woods” mood lifter.
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Babes + Blends $30 for Holiday boxes; sold individually from $12-$28 7
Explore Card
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One of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health is spend time in nature, and we are fortunate to have so many great options in and around the city. An Explore Card from the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority gives year-round access to conservation areas and allows the LRCA to maintain those awesome trails we can enjoy in every season. Give the gift of nature, and feel good about supporting your local conservation authority. Win-win!
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Lakehead Region Conservation Authority $30
Heart Chakra Singing Bowl
Singing bowls use vibration and deep, rich tones aligned with the seven chakras (energy points) in one’s body to bring about balance and deep relaxation. Using singing bowls in meditation and yoga practice is said to improve both physical and emotional wellbeing. The heart chakra is associated with compassion, friendship, empathy, and the ability to give and receive love. This is a beautiful gift in a time when we can all benefit from a little more connection and compassion.
8 Retro Sauna Bag with Bum Towel and Wrap
Saunas are amazing for detoxing your body, clearing your pores, clearing your mind, and leaving you feeling completely relaxed and renewed. This essential towel pack from Kangas Sauna is the perfect gift for someone who enjoys a good sweat session after a workout, a long work day, or just because…winter. Comes in a cool retro bag for easy transport.
Wojo’s Mojo
Kangas Sauna
$74.99
$25
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Just Clean Protein
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CoverStory
Pet Lover
pet lov-er a person whose pet is their BFF By Michelle McChristie
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1 Christmas Dog Cookie Box
Let’s face it, you’re planning on eating well over the holiday season and might even get festive in the kitchen, so why not throw a bone to your furry friends? Sweet North Bakery is offering holiday treat boxes—pretzels and gingerbread men included! Sweet North Bakery
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Fresh Air $49.99
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Buffalo Plaid Dog Bandana
6 Nite Ize PetLit Collar Light
Made locally by Juniper Brand Goods, this tie-style dog bandana will make your pooch the envy of the off-leash dog park. A variety of bandanas are available at Ungalli, or they can be made to order with a custom name tag online via Etsy (this one comes with a matching hair scrunchie for mom or dad).
See Spot. See Spot run. See Spot run, walk, or sniff the yellow snow from over 30 metres away in the dark. These smart clippable LED collar lights are great for smaller dogs or cats. They are also weather-resistant and an easily replaceable lithium battery is included.
Ungalli Collective
$6.49
Starting at $12
Custom Leash
Summit Gear’s collection of extradurable leashes is made from upcycled rock climbing ropes and webbing. The leashes can be customized with a variety of colours, thicknesses, lengths, knots, handle styles, and hardwear, so they can be used for a variety of pets (although designed with canines in mind). Summit Gear
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Boomer 4 Dog Bowl
$12
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The Boomer 4 dog bowl is a durable four-cup bowl with a non-slip design. It’s engineered with the same doublewall, non-insulated stainless steel as other YETI products, so it’s easy to clean (it’s dishwasher safe!) and rustproof. Available in multiple colours and an eight-cup size for larger appetites.
Gear Up for Outdoors 7 Face Mask
Okay, we admit, this gift guide is biased towards dog and cat lovers, so here is something for the hippophiles. Locally made JudyMade masks come in a variety of sizes, colours, and patterns, and feature a sewn-in nose bridge, filter, and adjustable elastics. They are cotton on the inside with a cotton/polyester outer layer and 100% cute. Judymade.ca
Starting at $15
$10–12
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8 Kitty Adoption
This charming nickel-free sterling silver and cubic zirconia pendant is the purrr-fect keepsake gift for any cat-lover. Chain sold separately. Exquisite Gold & Gems $39
Last year, the Thunder Bay District Humane Society took in 641 cats—over 200 of which were strays—so why not give the gift of unconditional love from a feline friend? The humane society is open for adoptions by appointment for approved applicants. Fees include spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip identification, and more. Thunder Bay District Humane Society
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$50–$250, depending on age
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CoverStory
Curator
cu-ra-tor a person with an affinity for art and other unique gifts 1
By Betty Carpick 1 Kootenay Pine Design Baskets
Mary Verigan, an artisan from Kimberly, B.C., uses the natural beauty of Ponderosa pine needles to hand weave decorative and functional basketry. Each autumn, she gathers fragrant pine needles from the forest floor, cuts them to equal lengths, and washes them. Once dry, Verigan uses a coiling technique to weave the pine needles for sturdy baskets, vases, and coasters. Fireweed Crafts $8–$150 2
Maud Lewis Ceramic Mug
Despite the adversities that Maud Lewis faced, she created joyful oil paintings depicting everyday rural Nova Scotia life. Enjoy a cup of your favourite warm beverage and take a moment to reflect on the triumph of the human spirit. While you’re at the gallery, experience the Maud Lewis exhibit organized and circulated by the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. Thunder Bay Art Gallery $16.95 3
Liquid Charcoal Art Pack
Gifts of art materials never get old! Charcoal is one of the world’s oldest drawing materials dating back 280 centuries. Made in Canada, watersoluble liquid charcoal dries quickly to a matte finish with varying texture and granulation. A 5-1/2” x 8” watercolour sketchbook, a tube of Nitram Liquid Charcoal, and a set of four brushes will inspire and amuse all ages and abilities. The Painted Turtle Art Shop $32.45
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Gift Card
Giving a gift card for someone you care about doesn’t have to be lame. For a fresh ink, already inked, or that little extra nudge, put some cash towards a tattoo service via an appointment. As the five fine artists at the Red River Trade Company say, “We do sick tats.” In other words, they’re up for providing indelible personal and creative experiences! Red River Trade Company Starting at $50 6 Gradient Puzzle
It’s no wonder that puzzles became a popular pandemic pastime. The deliberate process of assemblage helps the mind and body relax. And what’s subtler than a 1000-piece puzzle that can be considered complete even when its pieces are disassembled? For a fun way to meditate on colour, consider a bright gradient puzzle for enthusiasts 12 and over.
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Pretty Fly co. $52 7 Custom Frames
Art helps you experience and think about life differently. A special piece of original or limited-edition art hanging in your home not only provides a surge of dopamine, but it also fosters wellbeing! Jackie Rogalla offers experienced custom services for quality framing and restoration to distinguish and protect your artwork. Scheduled appointments and mobile pick-up and drop-off make it easy for artworks to be seen in a new light.
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The Framing Post & Design Studio Starting at $100
4 Sääpäiväkirja Dinner Plate
The Weather Diary collection from Marimekko by artist Aino-Maija Mestola is inspired by seasonal meteorological conditions and their influence on the rhythm of people’s lives. Over several months, Metsola documented changes in the weather of the Finnish shoreline through photographs, sketches, and watercolour and ink illustrations. Naturally, the dishes are ideal for picnics and simple meals at camp. Finnport $42
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8 Jim Oskineegish Painting
Through his bold and bright Shamanistic Woodland Style paintings, Jim Oskineegish hopes that art can bridge a universal understanding of love, faith, and unity. Discover the power, colour, composition, and energy of these visual narratives with the wonderful selection at the Ahnisnabae Art Gallery, where the Ojibway artist of Eabametoong First Nation has long been represented.
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Ahnisnabae Art Gallery Starting at $150
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CoverStory
Entertainer
en-ter-tain-er a person who is always ready, willing, and able to throw together a soirée By Rebekah Skochinski 1 Baked in the Bay Double Chocolate and Almond Biscotti
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While entertaining will look quite a bit different this year, a true entertainer at heart will always appreciate having baking on hand. A traditional Italian treat like these small-batch double chocolate and almond biscotti made with upcycled grain from Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. are delightful after a large meal or dunked into coffee as an afternoon pick-me-up. Livin’ la dolce vita!
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Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. $6.50 2
For the host with a huge heart, this festive fundraiser gift basket allows you to support local and spoil your favourite friend. It includes a Sunshine Pottery limited edition Lake Superior mug, Boreal Forest Teas in Boreal Berry and Canadian Shield flavours, reusable organic cotton tea bags and a $10 EcoSuperior gift card. Proceeds will help maintain EcoSuperior’s future environmental programming—the gift that truly keeps on giving.
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Taste of Home Gift Basket
EcoSuperior $99 3 5
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Tree Farm Reed Diffuser
Make any space more inviting with the mood-boosting aromas inspired by an outdoor spot loved by locals and their fourlegged friends alike. Waxxed Candle co’s Tree Farm reed diffuser is a lovely blend of pine and fir and will help to set the festive holiday spirit and invoke memories of winding through the beautiful scenery along the Pennock Creek Trail. Bonus: the reeds will emit fragrance for over three months— just long enough to get us through the depths of winter. Waxxed Candle co $20 4
Nappula Candelabra
Everything is better with candlelight. For the person who appreciates the art of dressing a table, this Nappula Candelabra is a stunning combination of contemporary and vintage details that celebrate designer Matti Klenell’s signature silhouette. Made with powder-coated steel, this four-armed candelabra works well with tapered candles or tealights to reflect a soft gentle light and add a warm ambience to any space. Three words: light it up.
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Bottle opener
Many people who throw good parties also happen to be good storytellers. Allow them to regale you with entertaining tales and crack open a cold one without skipping a beat. We love this steel bottle opener from Dawson Trail for its classic sturdy design and handsome leather rope loop that will not only help get the job done right, it will look nice hanging from the bar cart too. Dawson Trail Craft Brewery $10 6
The Joy of Mixology
Have a budding mixologist on your list? Gary Regan has been an influential resource for bartenders far and wide and his book, The Joy of Mixology, features a renowned system for categorizing drinks that will help home bartenders remember delicious drink recipes with ease but also assist in their ability to invent their own. Shaken, not stirred, with a twist? It’s all here. Cheers! Portobello Home $40 7
Snak Carafe
After the lessons we’ve learned this year, sharing a bowl of treats is never going to look the same again. However, you can still share the sentiment and the spiced nuts safely with this sleek snak carafe that allows everyone to put the treats in their hands but not their hands in the treats. Hygienic, elegant, and ergonomic in design, it’s a cinch to clean (on the top rack of the dishwasher, please) and it doubles as a carafe for wine. The Kitchen Nook $28 8
Magnolia Home Throw
A cosy space is a welcoming space. Guests will appreciate wrapping themselves in a throw from the Magnolia Home collection. Designed by Joanna Gaines, crafted by Loloi, and available at Kühl Interiors, these gorgeous throws are available in a selection of statement-making patterns, versatile hues, and premium textures like 100% handcrafted cotton, acrylic and polyester blends. Kühl Interiors $99
Finnport $228
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Food set aside an afternoon and bribe your social bubble to help. You can also make the filling ahead of time, so it’s ready to go when your bubble/ assembly line is. Also, once made, the perogies can be frozen flat on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and then popped into storage bags or containers. To cook, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Drop in a few perogies, being careful not to crowd the pot, or they’ll stick together. And remember to stir to keep them from sticking to the
Perogies
THE GRINNING BELLY
makes about 5 dozen 4½ c all-purpose flour 2 tsp salt 2 Tbsp butter, melted
Make Pierogi, Not War By Chef Rachel Globensky
F
or many families in Thunder Bay, a holiday meal just isn’t a holiday meal if the table doesn’t hold a steaming bowl of perogies (an Anglicized term— the Polish pierogi is already plural) covered in fried bacon and onions. Stemming from Slavic roots, perogies are (usually) savoury filled dumplings wrapped in unleavened dough, which are boiled and then (usually and deliciously) pan-fried. Fillings can include potato, different cheeses (or cheese products—see below), sauerkraut, ground meat, mushrooms, or fruit. Pierogi, varenyky, proghy, pedaheh—they’re all derivatives of filled dumpling, feast, pie, pastry, but I think all of them loosely translate to “delicious dough pillows filled with love.” I saw a meme recently that read, “I don’t always eat perogies, but when I do, I eat 45 of them.” Truth.
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bottom of the pot (but be careful, as they’re tender little things!) Perogies will rise to the surface of the water and will be puffed out a little when done. Frozen perogies will take about 10 minutes, and fresh will take about 8 minutes to cook. Remove cooked perogies with a slotted spoon and drain before placing in a pre-heated frying pan with melted butter and oil. Pan fry to desired colour/crispiness. Carefully toss in a serving bowl with fried onions and bacon and serve with sour cream.
I asked my mother-in-law for her perogy recipe. She said she doesn’t really follow one—she just throws things together—but that she puts sour cream in her dough. My sister-in-law, Stacey, uses her family’s recipe for the dough, but not the filling—she just wings that. When Stacey came over to make a batch, she used potatoes, cheddar, and (gasp!) Cheez Whiz. Polling others about their perogy recipe yielded more variations: use egg yolks/whole eggs/no eggs, use warm potato-boiling water/buttermilk/cold water, and use cheddar/cottage cheese/Cheez Whiz. Apparently, there are as many variations on making perogies as there are cooks, and almost no one follows a recipe. I’ve compiled a few recipes here that should yield about five dozen perogies—extra filling can be frozen. They do take time to make, so
2 c sour cream 2 eggs 2 egg yolks 2 Tbsp oil
8 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered 1 tsp salt
½–1 lb grated cheddar cheese 2 Tbsp Cheez Whiz* ½ tsp onion powder ½ tsp ground pepper ½ - 1 tsp salt
Whisk together in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk wet ingredients together. Stir into dry stuff until well-blended. Knead in the bowl for a few minutes. Cover with a towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Place potatoes in a large pot. Add salt and enough water to cover. Boil until you can poke a fork through them easily. Drain well and mash while still hot with cheese and seasonings below. Add cheese and seasonings to hot potatoes, and mash well to get all the lumps out, but not so much that they’re gluey. Set aside to cool. *Cheez Whiz is a hotly debated ingredient. I’m told it makes the filling creamy and cheesy, but I’m torn— I usually don’t like to use too many processed foods in my cooking, but I would definitely add more grated cheddar regardless!
Cut dough into two halves. Wrap one in a damp towel or plastic wrap and roll the other on a floured countertop so it’s about 1/8” thick. Let rest 10 minutes before cutting dough into as many 3½" circles as you can. Re-roll dough once more and cut more circles—although keep in mind the more you roll it, the tougher the dough will get, which isn't ideal for perogies. Add a rounded teaspoon (a little more, a little less— whatever works for you!) of the filling and brush the edges of the dough with water. Fold the dough over to make a semi-circle and pinch/press the edges to seal. Place perogies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze, or boil and fry as described above.
Food
DRINK OF THE MONTH
One Hot Minute The Sovereign Room
Story by Rebekah Skochinski, Photo by Chondon Photography
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SHOP ONLINE
CANWESTMAPLE.COM
s we turn the corner on this tumultuous year and head into a reimagined festive season, we’re eager to discover joy in small things (while we wait for that Santa guy to show up). We always find joy when we visit The Sov. We love sitting in one of their coveted wooden booths, or at the bar, surrounded by all that retro rec room décor. It feels like coming home, but better. Marie Skaf, a beloved bartender in the local scene, has made her return here as well, creating a splendid winter warmer for us to sip on. Just in time, we say! Made with chili-infused honey, the caramel, oak and vanilla notes of bourbon and some fizz and spice from ginger beer—it’s a kind of magic. Something we can use more of, yes? So bundle up, bring your bubbled-ones, and raise a glass to what we have right here, right now.
The Sovereign Room 220 Red River Road 343-9277
CANADA WEST MAPLE + NOR’WESTER MAPLE COMPANY | THUNDER BAY, ON
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wIZinES!
ENTER TO
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Food
BREW IT YOURSELF
Gift Guide for Homebrewers
Story and photos by Josh Armstrong, PhD, Certified Beer Judge
D
uring this upcoming holiday season, why not get the homebrewers in your life something fun to enhance their hobby? For me, one of the best elements of the homebrewing hobby is the different gear and tech that you can use to produce delicious beer at home. There are always new tools and toys that you can pick up to improve your brew days. Here is a brief list of some fun items that any homebrewer will enjoy for a gift this Christmas. Thermapen Mk4: Every homebrewer needs a good thermometer to take the temperatures of their liquids. Why not give them the best: the Thermapen Mk4 is quick, accurate, and reliable. Not only is it great for homebrewing, it also can be used in the kitchen or when smoking large cuts of meat. It is an all-around great tool for any type of cooking. Refractometer: Hydrometers are the standard for measuring gravity of your wort and final beer, but they require a large sample of liquid at the right temperature. A refractometer needs only a few drops and uses light to measure the amount of sucrose concentration in the sample. This is another great tool to add to your brewhouse.
Tilt hydrometer: This is a fun new digital device that allows you to read the gravity and temperature of your beer while it is fermenting. The small device floats within your fermentation vessel and connects to your phone via Bluetooth. This allows you to not only measure what the temperature of the unit is, but it gives you a reading of how much sugar has been fermented by the yeast. Stir plate: A stir plate is a necessary tool for any advanced homebrewer. A stir plate is used to build up a yeast starter from liquid yeast. Yeast starters are ideal as they provide the wort with the ideal amount of healthy and active yeast for solid fermentations. This is one of the easiest and best ways to improve the quality of your homebrew. Furthermore, a stir plate allows the brewer to build up extra yeast so that they can save some for future batches. Magazine subscription: Two of my favourite beer magazines that have great content for homebrewers are Craft Beer & Brewing and Brew Your Own. Both magazines are filled with great content including recipes, homebrewing tips, and fun projects. Each subscription is accompanied by great online content.
Books: There is a wide variety of high-quality homebrewing books available that would make for great gifts for any beer nerds out there. You could go with anything from Brewers Publications; they have amazing books on the brewing elements (hops, water, yeast, malts), brewing science, beer styles, and beer culture. Mastering Homebrew by Randy Mosher is another great book for homebrewers full of colourful charts and visualizations. Brewing software: Homebrew software makes it a breeze to design new recipes and store all the information you need for your home brewery. I’ve used both BeerSmith 2
and Brewer’s Friend, and I’m not sure how I would brew without them. Kegging set-up: If the homebrewer in your life is bottling their beers, do them a huge favour and help them get set up for kegging their homebrew. Bottle washing is the worst, pouring your own brew from a keg is amazing. Beer: Last but not least, I’m sure homebrewers would appreciate some good beer as a gift. Whether it is a few good local fresh brews, or something imported and fancy (e.g., something from keep6imports. com), good beer always makes for a nice present. Cheers to the holidays!
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Food
Dinner with Style Sitting Down at The Silver Birch Review by Sue Pretty
Sue Pretty
Keegan Richard
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Sue Pretty
The Silver Birch's Pasta Pickerel Alfredo The Silver Birch's special entrée
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arlene Green, head chef at The Silver Birch, has worked the line every night since the beginning. Heading into its eighth year of business, this northern-inspired eatery was hit hard by COVID19, like many other restaurants. Green says that, initially, they stayed home “just like the rest of the planet.” But after about four weeks, restlessness set in and she decided to start offering take-out, which was new for this fine-dining establishment. While the encouragement and kind words poured in, Green found herself keeping busy and calling back staff to give her a hand. “There was a learning curve, for sure,” she says. “Some products were short in supply at the beginning—like carrots and onions—and take-out containers were difficult to source, but we figured it out eventually.” Staying nimble and flexible in these times is certainly required, and now The Silver Birch is back to having in-person dining, while the take-out and catering side of the business continues to be strong. As for dining in, the tables are fewer, but the atmosphere is still one of calmness, elegant lines, and birch forest atmosphere, with a stunning stone fireplace in the private dining room. While perusing the comfort-food menu, patrons can nibble on the homemade beer and onion bread with signature blueberry balsamic vinaigrette. The bread is made with local brews, so you may not get the same taste every single time, depending on the nuances in the beer. The menu items reflect the unique culinary offerings of this region—familiar ingredients such as maple, blueberry, and Thunder Oak Gouda abound, but readers of The Walleye will not want to overlook the pickerel. The duo of northern pickerel cakes arrived perfectly panko-crusted on the outside, filled to the brim on the inside, and resting on a savoury lemon and grainy mustard aioli. The pasta pickerel alfredo was described by our wonderful server Nicole as “melt in your mouth,”
and she was not wrong. The linguine noodles were cream-sauced and adorned with bits of roasted tomato and parm, while the tender pickerel’s crumb coating was perfectly seasoned. The evening special was a braised 12-ounce bison short rib with a maple-chipotle rub, Fresno cheddar potato mash, and roasted root vegetables, consisting of carrot, parsnip, and beets. The Silver Birch is planning a few special take-out menus for the holiday season to watch for, and call early if you need them to be a part of your New Year’s Eve this year. Say goodbye to 2020 with style, because—let’s face it—the rest of us will be, too! The Silver Birch is located at 28 Cumberland Street North. Call 3450597, or visit thesilverbirchrestaurant.com.
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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
from the Management & Staff of Auto-One Car Care and Service Centre.
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Food
SUPERIOR SIP
Join The Club This Christmas! By Jeannie Dubois, Certified Pommelier and Sommelier
T
he holiday season is nearly upon us here in the great white north and while we have much to celebrate in these uncertain times, the pall of the pandemic has changed how we can show we care for each other this Christmas. The best bet to brighten someone’s holiday? Join a club! From wine lover to beer fan to cider whiz, there is a club that caters to every taste and can safely deliver Christmas cheer directly from all of our Ontario favourites to your loved ones’ doors. Happy Holidays and much love, Thunder Bay,
For the Cider Maven
For the Beer Guru
For the Wine Maestro
The Cider Crew at Savvy hand-curates their picks from one or several cider makers and delivers a package on the Friday closest to the 24th of every month. Packages can include cans, bottles, or even growlers of handselected Ontario ciders. Shipping is generally a flat fee of $20 and is delivered by courier anywhere in Ontario. Membership can be purchased for four, six, or 12 months.
On the first week of every month, the Dispatch sends out their curated, hand-picked smallbatch Ontario craft beers featuring fresh and seasonal offerings. They also have an Ontario craft beer advent calendar and the 12 Beers of Christmas available.
The Kwäf tasting panel samples wines from all the Ontario producers, but only selects the top 10% of products to send out in their packages. Sent midmonth via Canada Post, the package costs include all taxes and shipping at a very attractive price.
The Savvy In-Cider Club
Option 1: Peck of Picks—a variety of ciders (numbers vary depending on product packaging) with a retail value of $40–65/ month plus shipping. Option 2: Taste Crate—a wide assortment of ciders (may include multiples of a cider) with a retail value of $65–85/month plus shipping.
Small Batch Dispatch Club
Option 1: Christmas Deluxe Special—eight litres of Ontario craft beer delivered with eight or nine unique beers (two of each style) for $125 (tax included) plus $15 flat rate shipping. Option 2: Monthly Catch—four litres of Ontario craft beer delivered with eight or nine unique beers for $65 (tax included) plus $15 flat rate shipping. Option 3: Monthly Catch (half size)—two litres of Ontario craft beer delivered with four or five unique beers for $35 (tax included) plus $15 flat rate shipping
Kwäf Club
Option 1: Quarterly Mixed—every three months (March, June, September, December), receive six new wines from the best wineries in Ontario: three white and three red (with a chance of a rosé or sparkling) for $138 per shipment. Option 2: Bi-Monthly Mixed—Every two months (February, April, June, August, October, December), receive three new wines from the best wineries in Ontario (one red, one white, one surprise) for $88 per shipment. Option 3: Quarterly All Red—Every three months (March, June, September, December), receive six new, individual red wines (with a chance of rosé) for $148 per shipment. Option 4: Bi-Monthly All Red—Every two months (February, April, June, August, October, December), receive three new, individual red wines (with a chance of rosé) for $88 per shipment.
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COMING SOON TO
CURRENT RIVER Your local recreational cannabis store
320 Arundel Street
Tokehouse.ca
Tokehouse_Postcard_CurrentRiver_2020.indd 2
2020-11-17 7:47 PM
GIVE THE GIFT OF A RARE NIGHT OUT ADD SOME FESTIVITIES TO THEIR HOLIDAY WITH A KEG GIFT CARD THAT THEY CAN USE WHEN DINING IN, OR ORDERING TAKEOUT.
Now available for purchase at thekeg.com and in-store today.
735 Hewitson Street | (807) 623-1960
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Food
and experiences. Other pandemic restrictions have also required them to come up with a new way of offering their adventurous drink options: they will be available for takeout in sealed containers in an “add your own spirits to the mix” format. While in the take-out- and delivery-only phase, the lounge will be referred to as “Babylon Quick Fix,”
Return to Babylon Molecular Gastronomy, Merkley Style Story and photos by Nik Fiorito
Kal and Jana Merkley, owners of Babylon Lounge
T
he worldwide pandemic has affected the lives and livelihoods of millions of people and that includes Kal and Jana Merkley, two local entrepreneurs for whom this year has been especially trialsome. But the pair is still working tirelessly to open their longstanding vision of a super-sensational lounge in the heart of the waterfront entertainment district. Over two and a half years ago, the Merkleys set out to make their mark on the local food and drink scene. And while there have been more twists, roadblocks, and setbacks than any aspiring business person should have to endure just to get to opening day, you would never know it by the positive outlook and infectious smiles the couple possess as they tell you about their journey and their excitement to finally introduce Thunder Bay to the Babylon Lounge. Nestled in a recessed entryway at 234 Red River Road amongst now-established hotspots like The
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Foundry and the Sovereign Room (where Kal spent a number of years as one of the first employees), Babylon Lounge brings a new element to one of Thunder Bay’s most active night scenes: a science-infused bar and cocktail menu combined with a sensory experience that appeals to sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. The food and drink menu is “molecular gastronomy”— that is, creative and innovative pub grub. The walls, fixtures, and features were all carefully chosen and installed with purpose, each one lending itself to the mysterious-yet-inviting atmosphere. The goal is that the lounge is a place to be able to socialize without screaming, and will eventually feature a gaming area with a shuffleboard table, pinball, foosball, and the like. With COVID-19 cases spiking locally and the threat of another lockdown looming, the lounge will begin with unique take-out food options like crepes, paninis, and salads inspired by the Merkleys’ travels
which the Merkleys plan to open by the beginning of the month. The name is a turn of phrase paying homage to the agile nature of the restaurant’s development, as well as being able to grab a quick drink and bite. For updates on Babylon Lounge, follow them on Facebook @ Babylonloungetbay.
Thunder Bay’s largest selection of Canadian made Laurentian Chief moccasins.
Have a warm and cozy Christmas authentiquegifts.ca
Celebrating 15 years
205 South Algoma Street
Order ahead online at internationalhouseoftea.com or by phone at 807-626-0130 Toll-free: 1-888-338-4689
Holiday Hours
Monday- Saturday 11-5 Sunday 11:30-3:30 Week of Dec 21, 11-7 Christmas Eve 10-2 Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Dec 27 2 11-4 Reopening Dec 28,
Follow us:
Seasons Greetings! Judith Monteith-Farrell
Your Best Source for Firewood!
Birch | Poplar | Black Ash | Dry Pine Pick-up or Delivery Available
3079 Dog Lake Road
807.632.5220 | DogLakeFirewood.ca
MPP Thunder Bay—Atikokan
409 George St. Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5Y9 Tel: 807-622-1920 Toll-free: 1-833-673-4129 jmonteith-farrell-co@ndp.on.ca JudithMPP.ca
peace , love , and great hair. 270 Bay Street | 807.622.6989
EXTERIOR FINISHING T H U N D E R B AY, O N T. 882-A Tungsten Street • 807-623-1135 www.exteriorfinishing.ca
We are thankful this holiday season to be blessed with so many wonderful clients! Season’s Greetings from all of us at Exterior Finishing.
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Food
Kimberly McKenzie and Kevin Cernjul, co-owners of Hooligan Fuel Hot Sauce
Fueling Up
hot sauce is a new thing. McKenzie found a recipe in one of her stepmom’s cookbooks and started from there. A few tweaks and some substitutions to find what worked and they had a tasty sauce full of flavour with just the right amount of heat. But why would they call it Hooligan Fuel? It’s actually a bit of a tribute to Cernjul’s band, The Bay Street Bastards. McKenzie refers to the band as her hooligans. When rehearsal is done, McKenzie makes snacks to “fuel” her favourite hooligans, hence the name of the product. Cernjul and McKenzie work well together. They joke around but never stray from the task. They’ve perfected five flavours and love testing out new recipes. In the fall, Hooligan Fuel launched a limited edition sauce made with ghost peppers and activated charcoal. It’s called Char-nobyl and it’s pitch black in colour, with the label decorated with a pepper and sickle design. Cernjul and McKenzie are big fans of gimmicky-themed sales pitches and in this case, it really paid off. Charnobyl sold out in two weeks.
There are no plans to make another batch of the black spicy sauce, but Cernjul and McKenzie are brimming with ideas. Their limited edition sauce for the holiday season is a cranberry citrus sauce called Crandemic. It’s likely to be sold out soon, if not already. You can continue to check in with Hooligan Fuel on Instagram at @hooliganfuelhotsauce to stay up to date on more limited editions in the future.
A bottle of Hooligan Fuel’s Crandemic sauce
Hooligan Fuel Hot Sauce Unveils Creative New Flavours Story and photos by Leah Morningstar
K
evin Cernjul and Kimberly McKenzie are used to a jampacked schedule: multiple jobs, pets, a child, hosting trivia nights at The Foundry, and band practice. Early in the lockdown when everything ground to halt, Cernjul and McKenzie found themselves sitting on the couch binge-watching Netflix night after night. They were restless and grumpy and needed to channel their creative energy into a stay-at-home project with a tangible goal. They had a bunch of leftover peppers from a recent attempt at indoor gardening and they decided it might be fun to make hot sauce. Gardening and growing food was a huge part of childhood for both Cernjul and McKenzie. McKenzie remembers her mom spending hours in the garden, teaching and modelling the patience needed to grow vegetables. McKenzie’s stepmom had a huge collection of cookbooks
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and loved experimenting and trying new recipes. Cernjul’s father grew up quite poor in a rural area of what was then Yugoslavia, where everybody had a garden and everybody shared their harvest. Peppers were easy to grow and were always plentiful. When Cernjul told his dad that he and McKenzie were going to start growing peppers, his dad excitedly said, “I used to grow peppers too, and so did your grandfather.” Cernjul then kindly and patiently explained to his dad that he was very aware of the family pepper-growing history because he had heard the stories many times. “I grew up listening to the same stories over and over, as many kids do, and I watched my dad grow peppers and now he thinks he’s telling me something I don’t know? It’s hilarious,” he says. While the pepper growing and gardening has been handed down through the generations, making
ST. PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” Leonard Cohen
Christmas Eve Service will be shared by livestream only, at 9:00 pm Sundays - 10:30 am join us in St. Paul’s Church or by livestream at trinityunited.church
349 Waverley Street | 345-5864 | www.stpaulstbay.net
MyCancerIQ: A gift for yourself and your family this holiday When it comes to cancer, prevention and early detection are essential. That’s why knowing your risk is so important.
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What’s your financial picture? It’s time to start planning for the year ahead. We’re about to turn the corner into 2021, so this could be the right time for a financial check-in, an opportunity to plan for the year ahead. At Rapport Credit Union our financial advocates are ready to help you review your financial situation to develop your budget, look at debt consolidation options if necessary, or assist you with some other financial matters. Let’s work together to help you improve your financial wellness. We’re just a click, call or visit away.
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(807) 346 2810 (807) 626 5666 (807) 475 4276
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FilmTheatre
Gift-Giving Movies
THE SECOND MOST PLEASURABLE THING WE DO IN THE DARK. A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES
By Michael Sobota
“Please ma’am, I was wondering if you’d care to have my sister?” - Robbie (Rex Thompson) to a neighbouring homestead lady (Madge Blake) in All Mine To Give.
M
ovies are almost always a part of our holiday season, as much as gift-giving is. Sometimes movies can be a gift themselves. Here are several movies that feature gifts, including a few unconventional choices that have nothing to do with Christmas. But one special movie does. I revisit one of the most heart-opening and tearinducing Christmas movies ever made. It seems just right, for this year.
It’s A Gift (1934)
All Mine To Give (1957) Troy (2004)
This is one of W.C. Field’s best, classic comedies. The screenplay has a halfdozen contributors, including Fields himself. The director is Norman McLeod. Fields plays Harold Bissonette, in one of his classic roles: the hen-pecked husband. Kathleen Howard plays Amelia, his hen-pecking wife. The best banter and jokes come from these stereotypical characters. Harold pines to escape his dull, mid-American life. He wants to own a ranch, maybe one in California, and grow oranges. A wealthy uncle dies, leaving him just the amount of cash that allows him to purchase his dream. When he and Amelia arrive in California, they discover the ranch is a shack and the orange grove has one decrepit tree. And they have no funds left from the uncle’s legacy to make things better. But doesn’t comedy seem to work best when things go from bad to worse? They discover a race track owner covets their land, bringing more comedic slapstick, droll humour, and a happy conclusion.
The movie begins where it ends, with a young boy pulling a sled with his sister on it through snow-laden woods. His eyes are glistening. A voiceover tells us that, when we are young, we don’t really know what the world was like before we were born. Fade into 1850s rural Wisconsin. A couple, Jo (Glynis Johns) and Robert (Cameron Mitchell), are newly arrived immigrants from Scotland. They homestead in Wisconsin, where Robert finds work as a bush worker. Jo becomes pregnant and their first son, Robbie, is born. They rapidly have six children and as Robert prospers, he starts his own boat-building business so that he doesn’t have to be away from his family. The nearby village is full of colourful characters—as well as, eventually, an unknown virus that starts wiping out neighbours and friends. First, the family loses a son, then Robert becomes ill and dies. Jo and the kids struggle forward until she, too, falls ill. On her deathbed, she tells Robbie, who is now 12 and the eldest, that he can’t manage the remaining family on his own. She makes him promise “to find homes” for all his siblings. So after an emotional burial for his mother in the village cemetery, we find Robbie going from door to door, giving away his brothers and sisters—even on Christmas. Melodramatic, for sure. But it is based on a true story, co-scripted by the grandson of that original immigrant, Dale Eunson, and directed by Allen Reisner. What could be a more precious gift than your own siblings? Get out your handkerchiefs.
I recently re-watched this swordand-sandal epic to take me away from our current environment. The story is Homer’s classic poem, The Iliad, from which David Benioff adapted his screenplay. Director Wolfgang Petersen cast mainstream stars, including Brad Pitt as Achilles, Eric Bana as his best bro Hector, Brian Cox as power hungry Agamemnon, Peter O’Toole as King Priam, and Orlando Bloom as Paris, who falls in love with Helen, played by Diane Kruger, who has that “face that launched a thousand ships.” Yes, you will see those ships. Troy is besieged by the Greeks but does not surrender. So now we come to the gift which may be one of the biggest ever seen on screen: the Trojan Horse. This is a well-made adaptation of this classic piece of history. There is a lot of CGI. The technical credits scrolling slowly at the end list more than five hundred participants in this ensemble effort.
The Ultimate Gift (2006)
Michael Sajbel directs a screenplay by Cheryl McKay, from the novel by Jim Stovall. This is another legacy story. A billionaire (James Garner) leaves his nephew (Drew Fuller) what he describes as “the ultimate gift.” While his uncle was alive, the kid was lazy and loathed him. He presumed he would be getting the big bucks upon his uncle’s demise. Instead, in his uncle’s will, he is given a series of tasks to complete before arriving at “the ultimate gift.” This is, of course, another morality story that could be a cousin of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. As he reluctantly completes each task, the kid receives a gift, a teaching and, like Scrooge, by the conclusion of the film he is transformed into “a better person.” While the story is hackneyed, it is laced with sharp insights and smart humour, all well played by this cast.
And here are six more stories with gifts to relax and re-open during your holidays: A Christmas Story (1983—a Red Ryder BB gun), The Breakfast Club (1985—an earring), Aladdin (1992—the Genie’s freedom), Good Will Hunting (1997—a used car), Old School (2003 – a continuously re-gifted bread maker), Love Actually (2003—a Joni Mitchell CD).
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Courtesy of Ryan La Via
FilmTheatre
The championship-winning 1991-92 Thunder Bay Thunder Hawks
Championship Nostalgia
Rediscovery of Cherished Trophy Leads to New Doc on 1991–92 Thunder Hawks By Michael Charlebois
T
he list of great hockey accomplishments in Thunder Bay is a long one. Our history is filled with everything from successful bantam tournaments to beer league legends to Stanley Cup parades. The Thunder Bay Thunder Hawks were only a blip on the radar, playing just two seasons in the now-defunct minor professional Colonial Hockey League under the Thunder Hawks name (the franchise would exist in the Lakehead as the Senators and Thunder Cats until 1999, before moving south of the border). Yet the makeup of the original team’s unique personalities, ruthless brand of hockey, and underdog story made for something that deserved to be told on screen. “The way they played was a perfect match for Thunder Bay,” local filmmaker Ryan La Via says. No team exists in the imagination of the community quite like the Thunder Hawks team, who won the
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league’s inaugural Colonial Cup in 1992. Despite finishing the regular season with a losing record, they rallied to win the championship, which included a Game 7 overtime, clinching win at Fort William Gardens. “Anybody who was at that Game 7 remembers it,” La Via says. “This film will bring back memories of the people who enjoyed the brand of hockey in the early 90s.” The stories of the aftermath of the title win were surrounded in mythology in the hockey community for years to come. Most notably, the league’s inaugural championship cup was so badly damaged in the celebration that the league told the Thunder Hawks to keep the trophy and pay for its replacement. For 18 years, the cup was believed to be missing, until it was discovered at the home of the late Andy Morrow, former president of the Thunder Hawks. Local journalist and filmmaker
Kris Ketonen filed the story for CBC Thunder Bay in February 2019, detailing the discovery and evoking the memories of the magical run to the championship. That’s when La Via contacted Ketonen to begin the process of putting that story onto the screen. In the film, La Via and Ketonen talk to former coaches, players, journalists, and fans about how the Thunder Hawks’ physical, blue-collar brand of hockey is a cherished memory to many. “It certainly marks a time in our hockey history that was pretty unique, and I think a lot of people look back pretty fondly on it,” Ketonen says.
Winger Bruce Ramsey typified the Thunder Hawks’ physical style
The documentary, which will be released on December 11, will be available for viewing through cupconfidential.com.
A History of Giving
Our most important year yet. This year more than ever, a toy will bring cheer to children who otherwise might have nothing for Christmas.
Support Thunder Bay Professional Firefighter’s Association by donating to help local children.
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1 Online at: tbaytoysfortots.ca Visit the Toy Fire Station at
2 Intercity Shopping Centre (Near the Food Court)
3 Go to any TD Bank Location Text CHEERFORTOTS to 20222
4 to donate $10 or $25
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We can help you with:
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Donate now. Get involved: uwaytbay.ca @uwaytbay
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@uwaytbay
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The United Way of Thunder Bay RECOVER 2020 campaign is about helping those who need it most.
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COVID-19 has put Thunder Bay in crisis conditions.
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The Drowning Girls
FilmTheatre
Magnus Takes Every Precaution to Keep Patrons Safe Story by Cathi Winslow, Photos by Keegan Richard
From left to right, Sarah Mendek, Olivia McInnis, Hanna Laaksonen
T
he latest show at Magnus Theatre featured a chilling image of three young brides drowning in clawfoot tubs. The stark set, ominous darkness, and water dripping from overhead faucets emphasized how isolated and vulnerable these women had become. They seemed trapped inside their own worlds, unable to communicate with each other and physically distanced far apart. While watching the show unfold, the audience itself was in darkness, far apart from each other and masked, to protect each other and the actors from COVID-19. Sharing this live performance, even with restrictions, was a way to combat our own feelings of isolation and vulnerability. “People need all kinds of art, whether it’s visiting a gallery, a theatre, or a live music hall,” says Magnus artistic director Thom Currie. Due to the overwhelming success of their outdoor production of A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline, Magnus decided to plan an indoor experiment: a new production of The Drowning Girls, written by Canadian playwrights Beth Graham, Charlie Tomlinson, and Daniela Vlaskalic. “This is a rare play that completely lends itself to social distancing,” says Currie. “This was one I could cast locally, without changing a single line of text.” The play is based on the true story of a serial killer who preyed upon women in the early 20th century. At open auditions in Thunder Bay, Currie chose Olivia McInnis and
Sarah Mendek to make their Magnus debuts alongside Hanna Laaksonen because of the chemistry between the three of them. In reference to his talented cast, Currie says, “We hit it out of the park on this one.” Magnus went above and beyond recommended COVID protocols. On stage, the actors stayed two metres apart or else slipped on masks. Only 50 patrons were allowed in the auditorium at a time, socially distanced and wearing masks. Staff sanitized every hard surface between performances and laundered the seat covers daily. Above all, Currie says he wanted the audience to feel safe. “You’re probably safer coming to Magnus than you are going to the supermarket,” he says. Depending on how health advisories unfold, Currie says he hopes to stage a Christmas show and move outside again in the spring. Magnus presented The Drowning Girls November 12 to 28. Look for upcoming shows at magnustheatre.com.
Hanna Laaksonen as Bessie From left to right, Olivia McInnis, Sarah Mendek, Hanna Laaksonen
Sarah Mendek as Margaret
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FilmTheatre
Courtesy of 222 Productions
Scene and Roll By Michael Charlebois
J
amani Barrett and Chume Nwigwe are two important players on the Lakehead University Thunderwolves men’s basketball team. In 2019, during the team’s most successful season in half a decade, you may have seen Barrett blocking a shot into the stands, or Nwigwe finishing an alley-oop slam. But their hard work and dedication is not limited to basketball. When they aren’t in class or at practice, they are working hard to grow 222 Productions—a video production company named after the student residence in which they reside. The pair first met in Toronto and transferred to Lakehead in 2019 after attending junior college in Texas. During the 2019–20 season, the Thunderwolves ranked as high as fifth in the country. However, near the end of the season, a knee injury sidelined Barrett indefinitely. He decided to borrow a camera from a friend and started to film games and produce highlight packages for teammates as a way of staying connected with the team. Clips of personal basketball highlights, known as “hoop mixtapes,” are a form of social currency for young athletes in today’s Instagram age. It didn’t take long for Barrett and Nwigwe to realize that the person
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behind the camera was just as crucial to the process as the athlete. After COVID-19 hit, they started to produce videos all over the Greater Toronto Area for elite basketball prospects. “After a while we’d show up to the gym and they’d be like, ‘Oh you’re 222,’” Nwigwe recalls. “We’re already friends with a lot of these guys,” Barrett adds. “If I’m just a regular guy trying to get in these gyms, it wouldn’t happen.” Now back in Thunder Bay, the two are looking to expand by producing videos for local companies such as Milktease Bubble Tea, and Wealth Evolution Inc. “Not a lot of people have that drive to own something for themselves,” Barrett says.
With this year’s basketball season officially cancelled due to COVID-19, Barrett and Nwigwe are laser-focused once they leave practice and head to the editing studio (their rooms). “I don’t want to work a normal job,” Nwigwe says. “I want to go places, meet people, and film.” Their work can be viewed at @2twenty2.prod on Instagram.
222 Productions is named after Nwigwe’s and Barrett’s student residence Chume Nwigwe of the Lakehead Thunderwolves men’s basketball team and 222 Productions
Chume Nwigwe of the Lakehead Thunderwolves men’s basketball team and 222 Productions
Michael Charlebois
Jamani Barrett of the Lakehead Thunderwolves men’s basketball team and 222 Productions
Michael Charlebois
Michael Charlebois
The Basketball Best Friends Behind 222 Productions
The Neebing Fire/Rescue Association (NFRA) has been fundraising over the past couple of years to get a new f i r e t r u c k f o r t h e c o m m u n i t y. N F R A i s a registered charity in the Municipality of Neebing that supports our volunteer fire/rescue services, as well as our essential workers. Safe, functioning equipment is paramount to providing the best possible care that a volunteer department can. For small, rural communities, accessing funds for essential services can be difficult. Like so many organizations, fundraising came to a near dead-stop when COVID-19 hit. After March 2020, we were unable to put on any of our popular community events in support of NFRA. For more information or to find out how to donate, please visit,
WWW .NEEBINGFIRERESCUEASSOCIATION.COM.
We l o o k f o r w a r d t o h o s t i n g y o u a t o n e o f our community events, as soon as we can!
Depiction rendered in June 2020, and may not be accurate to date.
THE LATEST SMARTPHONES
IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS SHOP IN-STORE OR ONLINE AT TOUCHUNWIRED.COM Follow us for the latest updates 1080 LITHIUM DR. INTERCITY SHOPPING CENTRE 540 W. ARTHUR ST. The Walleye
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FilmTheatre
Owen Walsh as Peter Pan
Ariah Wirtz as Wendy
Per Fredrickson as Captain Hook
Theatre in the New Reality
All the Daze Managing COVID-19 to Bring Shows to Life Story by Sara Sadeghi Aval, Photos by Blair Wright
W
hen All the Daze theatre company halted its production of Peter Pan at the start of the pandemic, they had no idea when they could gather again to perform. Now Marcia Arpin, the creative director of the company, has jumped the hurdles of COVID-19 and brought her cast back together through film, in what she calls the “new reality” of musical theatre. The kids were able to pick up rehearsals again in September, but instead of presenting the show for a live audience, the performance has been filmed. Arpin explains that adjusting to COVID regulations gives the group back its “creative outlet…
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well an outlet, period,” which is vital in times of social distancing and continued isolation. She says the young thespians are coping well, and are happy to follow instructions in order to rehearse and continue performing together. All the Daze previously operated inside of the Baggage Building at Marina Park, but, with that building’s closure to the public, Arpin says she’s extremely grateful for the help she’s received from members of the community. Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. offered their Barrel Room to the theatre group in order to rehearse, while NV Music Hall also offered up their space so that Arpin and the team could begin filming their first
Astrid Fredrickson as Tinker Bell
“live” show. Last, but certainly not least, Westfort Productions has assisted with filming and editing. Although the cast aimed to perform Peter Pan at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium for the show’s opening night, with the abundance of space available in NV Music Hall, the troupe was able to film individual sequences while social distancing. Masks were worn by everyone and only removed during the final tapings. Arpin says that the masks actually motivated the actors to articulate their words and project to the camera even more, giving them the perfect circumstance to fine-tune their skills. The concept is still in its early stages, so the first taping will be a keepsake for family and friends of the young actors and actresses. However, Arpin says she plans to move forward with streaming licenses in the new year, so that audiences can purchase tickets, obtain the link to the livestream, and enjoy the show in the comfort of their own home. The cast has already begun rehearsing for a second
taping, which will be a rendition of Dear Edwina, directed by Olivia Boon, the same actor who played Edwina at 12 years old when the company originally performed the play in 2016. If you’re a live theatre enthusiast, don’t fret. The tapings are being done in a way to ensure they are “not so polished or overedited that you lose the feeling of young children acting in the process,” Arpin says, adding that her theatre company is coming up on a special milestone. “2021 is our fifth anniversary,” she says. “I am so happy to be a part of Thunder Bay right now, especially with all the support we’ve seen from businesses and organizations in town.” Arpin says that “reuniting the cast gives us a little piece of normal. When you have 30 kids staring at you, you say ‘all right, we’ll figure this out,’ and we did.” All future shows and tapings can be found on allthedaze.ca, as well as on their social media channels.
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Beeswax Wrap Workshop December 8th Join us for a short presentation about singleuse plastics & a step by step tutorial to create your own beeswax wraps!
How To Participate $10/ participant Register & submit payment @ www.ecosuperior.org Pick up Workshop Kit at EcoSuperior Curbside Link-in through Zoom Have Fun!
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2 pieces of fabric beeswax wrap ingredients paint brush stir stick parchment paper instructions and materials for eco-friendly wrapping
Stay Warm This Season Seasons of Thunder Bay Cookbook By Chef Rachel Globensky Available at
Finnport Indigo Thunder Bay Roots to Harvest Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. The Cheese Encounter The Kitchen Nook Ungalli Collective Co. C
or purchased online at
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CHRISTMAS DINNER TAKE-OUT FOR 4 HOME MADE DINNER ROLLS FESTIVE MANDARIN SALAD HERB ROASTED TURKEY APPLE SAGE STUFFING MAPLE GLAZED VEGETABLES BUTTERMILK WHIPPED POTATOES CRANBERRY SAUCE & GRAVY CRANBER GINGERBREAD TORTE
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TheArts
Travelling Far for the Perfect Shot
Ethan Beardy Captures Diverse Landscapes Through the Camera Lens Story by Wendy Wright, Photos by Ethan Beardy
E
than Beardy finds inspiration in landscapes far and wide for his photography. Images of soaring mountains and breathtaking skies are brought to life through his lens. Landscape photography and the travels that bring passion to his life are what fuels Beardy and his ever-growing portfolio. Beardy started getting interested in the medium of photography late in high school and in his early university years. At the time, he was using a mere cell phone camera. Once his interest in photography was piqued, he bought his first real camera. He hasn’t looked back since. In fact, he keeps moving forward in travel and excursions to feed this growing occupation. When asked about his favourite photo travel destinations, Beardy finds it difficult at first to choose
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just one. “One of the best trips has been to Peru,” he says. “The mountains there are very unique.” Mountains are one of Beardy’s favourite subjects, and not only through the lens—he is also an avid skier. He recounts a recent trip through the United States and Canada last winter to ski. “This trip may have been about skiing but I always have my camera in my backpack so I can shoot as well,” he says. “We visited 16 ski resorts from New Mexico and Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana before heading back to Canada to ski the Rocky Mountains here. I enjoy mountain ranges for sure.” Luckily, this trip was just prior to the onset of COVID-19. Beardy has also been to Central and South America and has a list of places he would like to travel to
Tombstone Territorial Park in Yukon Revelstoke, British Columbia
Thank you for your support.
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday. The skies of Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming and photograph in the future. Japan, New Zealand, Argentina, and the Himalayas are high on the list of this adventure seeker. These diverse destinations all have unique and grand vistas in common, though each one is distinct. For now, Beardy’s photography is “a side-hustle until [I] can make it a full-time career. Ideally that’s what I’d like [it]
to be,” he says. Beardy is part of the Nameless Collective, which is a “platform for emerging artists in Thunder Bay & Northern Ontario for representation and expression.” Please visit namelessco.ca. You can also view Beardy’s work, which is available for purchase, on Instagram @ethbeardy.
Another shot Beardy took of a vista in Yukon
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Winter Hours Monday-Saturday 10-6 Sundays 11-4
Eat Local Pizza gift cards are available in any amount!
For every gift card sold before December 25th, a pizza will be donated to a community organization in January.
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Floral #1 and Floral #2
TheArts
FROM THE THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION
By Penelope Smart, Curator, Thunder Bay Art Gallery
I
n 1990, artist Ahmoo Angeconeb (1955–2017) handed his mother, Patricia Angeconeb, then 61, a set of coloured pencils and asked her to draw pictures of her childhood. “I wanted her to draw the lifestyle and the activities of the Lac Seul Anishnawbe in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s,” he wrote in the brochure for the 1999 exhibition, A glimpse of a northern past, The Art of Norman Moonias and Patricia Angeconeb “I suggested to her that she should do some drawings as if she was preparing to do some beadwork.” Bright, inviting, genuine— Patricia’s floral designs are set off by primary colours of red, green, and blue. It is easy to imagine these designs coming to life on the clothing, garments, quilts, and patch blankets she made lovingly for herself and her large family of nine children and numerous grandchildren. “[She] was creative all her life in her sewing, her storytelling and her approach to life.” As an artist, Ahmoo was interested in folk art as a genre and familiar with the paintings of American artist Grandma Moses and the Cape Dorset Inuit artists. “I often wondered,” he wrote, “if there was such a thing as ‘Anishnawbe folk art.’” He didn’t have to look farther than his mother’s kitchen table. “I was interested in seeing what types of folk art my mother would create if given the materials and encouragement… All of her pictures have stories and are connected to something in her past.” Patricia passed away in 1998, a year before these two small drawings, along with more than 20 of her pencil drawings of everyday scenes such as hunting, fish smoking, and square dancing, were exhibited in A glimpse of a northern past, The Art of Norman Moonias and Patricia Angeconeb, curated by Ahmoo. In the exhibition brochure, Ahmoo also included a short biography of his mother. “Patricia Angeconeb was born in 1929 in Lac Seul, Ontario. She
Artist: Patricia Angeconeb Title: Floral #1 Date: 1991 Medium: coloured pencil on paper Dimensions: 24 x 4.5 cm, 27.5 x 42 cm
Artist: Patricia Angeconeb Title: Floral #2 Date: 1991 Medium: coloured pencil on paper Dimensions: 27.5 x 42 cm
lived most of her life in her Whitefish Bay (Lac Seul) home. She was the eldest daughter of Morris and Doris Thomas. As the eldest daughter, she was taught the traditional ways of the Anishnawbe—hunting, trapping, and living off the land, although her
father took up the occupation of a boat builder. When she was a teenager, she attended school (Pelican Lake Residential School near Sioux Lookout) for the first time. She stayed for only two years, ran away and never went back.”
With excerpts from A glimpse of a northern past, The Art of Norman Moonias and Patricia Angeconeb, Thunder Bay Art Gallery, curated by Ahmoo Angeconeb, February 26– April 18, 1999.
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TheArts
Meg Niittynen of Ink Factory
Tattooing Through Heartbreak and Uncertainty Meg Niittynen of Ink Factory Story and photos by Leah Morningstar
M
eg Niittynen has always lived life unapologetically. She had dreams and she followed them. She wanted to pursue art and she did, from early scribblings to attending the fine arts program at Lakehead University to opening up her own tattoo business. She also loves to travel, see live music, ride her Harley, go fishing, and spend time with her family and friends. Working hard has allowed Niittynen to be independent and pursue her passions. And the plan was to keep working hard and keep chasing dreams with her best friend and life partner by her side. Best-laid plans, right? Two years ago, Niittynen was shocked to find her partner, Mark, on the floor of his garage. He had suffered a major heart attack and no amount of CPR was able to bring him back. It was a
48 The Walleye
tragedy for her, as well as their large group of friends and family. There really doesn’t seem to be an explanation for why a fit and healthy 46-year-old would suddenly just be gone. For a time she thought she might close up shop: no more tattooing and no more art. That first winter without Mark was long and dark and cold. Niittynen credits her parents, sister Miranda, and best friends (including dog Hemi) with keeping her sane and keeping her on a schedule: get up, eat something, draw a picture, and hug Hemi. “I just tried to do something productive every day, even if it was just having lunch or having a shower,” she says. “I knew Mark wouldn’t want me to stop living life to the fullest.” She slowly started tattooing again and could feel her motivation coming
back. Then the COVID-19 shutdown happened and Niittynen felt herself losing focus again. Without her job and clients to occupy the days, she felt herself slipping back into uncertainty and despair and fought hard to stay present. But she’s back—even if things are different. Guidelines are still pretty strict with new health and safety procedures, and with the uncertainty of the pandemic, Niittynen has decided to not accept new clients for the time being. She has a large number of regular clients at this point—enough to keep her going. “A lot of my clients have been with me since I started tattooing; sometimes it can really feel like a family,” Niittynen says. Many of Niitynen’s clients grieved with
her and are still grieving. Sometimes they talk and reminisce; laugh and cry. The comfortable little corner where the tattooing happens is an oasis of memorabilia and mementos, many of which were gifts from Mark and friends. To be tattooed by Niittynen is akin to visiting an old friend. Watch her Instagram and keep an eye out. Her books will open up again and life will regain a sense of normalcy eventually. And Meg Niittynen of Ink Factory isn’t going anywhere. If she can tattoo through widowhood and a pandemic, she can tattoo through anything. And her work is a beautiful gift for all who are blessed to carry it on their skin. Niittynen’s Instagram handle is @ megniittynen.
A picture of Meg and her late partner, Mark
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TheArts
Rick Asham, co-editor of Swan
A Labour of Love and Loss
New Poetry Collection Features Artists with Local Ties By Matt Prokopchuk
“I
’ve tried to write a novel and I always stall on, like, page five,” laughs Rick Asham when asked what draws him, primarily a visual artist, to also write poetry. “The reason I like poetry is because it’s so immediate.” Ten of Asham’s poems—along with works from nine other multidisciplinary artists such as author Mary Frost, singer/songwriter Sunday wilde, and graphic artist and musician Rusty Brown—have been collected and released in a new anthology called Swan. The book features contributions from people who have over the years collaborated on various projects published by the independent un/speak/able/ press, or its predecessor, burning. books.press. Asham and Brown co-edited the book.
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Another thread that ties the contributors together, Asham says, is that they’ve all lived in Thunder Bay, even if several (including himself and Brown) no longer do. The plan was to release what became Swan as a sort of 10th anniversary celebration of their publishing collaboration, but that changed with the 2019 death of Douglas Livingston, a poet and visual artist, one of the founding members of Definitely Superior Art Gallery, and close friend to those involved in the collection. “The project changed from a 10year retrospective… [featuring] new work to becoming a memoriam for Douglas Livingston,” Asham says. “It hurt.” However, what ties many of the poems in the book together, Asham says, are “a rumination on one’s own mortality without,
hopefully […] becoming morbid.” Three of Livingston’s poems are also included, and several other poems by other writers are connected to him in some way. Sunday wilde, the award-winning blues artist who is a staple of the Thunder Bay music scene, also used the book to memorialize a loved one: her late partner Reno Jack. Jack, a longtime musician, died in 2018 and wilde contributed some of Jack’s lyrics that she recorded as he was dying. “When he was dying in the hospital, I brought my little recorder and he wrote a bunch of stuff and that was one of them,” wilde says of Jack’s untitled work in Swan. “So I transcribed it from the recorder to this little poem. It’s kind of like a song-slash-poem, so that’s kind of neat. He would be happy that I had done that for him.” Wilde also contributed four poems of her own, one of which, “ON the WAY out,” deals with the decision
of who to call when one knows they are dying. Wilde has been writing poetry as long as she’s been a songwriter, and sometimes the former helps the latter. “When I’m doing my songwriting, sometimes I pull out my poems and sometimes they mesh together and sometimes they don’t,” she says. “In this particular selection of poems that I got in this book, there’s some concepts in there that maybe I’ll blend into a song one day.” Asham and wilde both say that poetry remains a powerful artistic style in which to work. “The form of it is so completely open that it can be very very personal and introspective and subjective,” Asham says. “Or it can be very abstract and universal and objective.” Swan can be purchased for $15 (cash only) by emailing ashamfedorick942@gmail.com. Copies will also be available at Definitely Superior Art Gallery.
the honourable
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TheArts
Maud Lewis and the Secret to Staying Home Thunder Bay Art Gallery Exhibiting Legendary Artist’s Work
Maud Lewis (1903–1970) Cows Grazing Among Flowering Spruce 1967 oil on masonite 29.8 × 40.5 cm (11 3/4 × 15 15/16 in.) Collection of CFFI Ventures Inc., as collected by John Risley Maud Lewis (1903–1970) Fountain with Birds c. 1943 oil on wood 169 × 42.4 cm (66 9/16 × 16 11/16 in.) Collection of CFFI Ventures Inc. as collected by John Risley Maud Lewis (1903–1970) Horse Hauling Logs c. 1965 / 1966 oil on board 30.5 × 34.9 cm (12 × 13 3/4 in.) Collection of CFFI Ventures Inc. as collected by John Risley
By Penelope Smart, Curator, Thunder Bay Art Gallery
“L
ook, she’s put blossoms on the evergreens,” says one of two women as they look at a small painting with cows grazing in a field of spruce trees with impossible pink flowers. “That’s because she did what she wanted,” the other replies. I laugh because it’s true. Canada’s small, frail, and beloved folk artist Maud Lewis (1903–1970), or “Maudie,” (as Hollywood calls her in the 2017 film) had a knack for imagination and for making things happen for herself. On day three of my new job as curator at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, it feels great to know there’s a powerful story of freedom, resilience, and joy already on the wall. Maud Lewis is a collection of paintings from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s by the artist from rural Nova Scotia, curated by Sarah Milroy of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. As the first-ever show of Lewis’s works in the gallery, this is a mega Maud experience. While stuffed with the artist’s familiar faces such as unblinking cats, big-eyed oxen, and gentle Bambis, the show reads as a nuanced story of hope and beauty in our own COVID times. Lewis made great success out of something we’ve been asked to do for the last eight months: stay home. Biographers marvel that Lewis never travelled further than 60 miles in
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either direction of her tiny shoebox house. She got famous by looking out of her kitchen window. How did she do it? Lewis painted what made her happy. This is impressive, seeing as she was born into a world often stripped of kindness (she suffered physically from aggressive rheumatoid arthritis, her family kept the birth of her daughter a secret and gave the baby away, there was no fancy art supply store on her rural stretch of highway, and it’s generally agreed that her husband Everett, though not without his softer side, was a cantankerous
dick). Instead, she possessed the true gift, or force of will, to focus on things that sustained her. She loved boats bobbing in the Digby gut, birds wheeling over fishing baskets, horse-drawn sleighs (you can almost hear the bells), Sunday drives in a Model T, surrealistic snowmen grimacing (go see the show). These happy memories from childhood not only fed her body and soul, they
set her free. Lewis was a person whose life might have been framed by many circumstances beyond her control: her disability, rural poverty, and pre-and-post war societal norms. She chose to look out her window, let her eyes fall on the people, places, and animals she loved, and claim them as her own. Her paintings are a great reminder to do this.
TheArts
Maud Lewis (1903–1970) Fishing Schooner in the Bay of Fundy oil on board 29.8 × 35.6 cm (11 3/4 × 14 in.) Collection of CFFI Ventures Inc. as collected by John Risley Maud Lewis (1903–1970) Fountain with Birds c. 1943 oil on wood 169 × 42.4 cm (66 9/16 × 16 11/16 in.) Collection of CFFI Ventures Inc. as collected by John Risley
Maud Lewis (1903–1970) late 1950s / early 1960s oil on board 27.9 × 29.2 cm (11 × 11 1/2 in.) Collection of CFFI Ventures Inc. as collected by John Risley
Become a Monthly Donor! Your monthly donation will help provide free on-site and virtual programs that address concerns including food security, parenting, and social isolation for individuals, children and families in our community.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is open to the public during regular hours with COVID-19 guidelines in place. You can check out our website at theag.ca and follow the gallery on Facebook at @thunderbayAG
for special holiday hours. Please wear a mask or face covering when you visit. The exhibition runs until January 3, 2021.
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Outdoor
Catching the Superior Wave November Surfing on the Big Lake Story and photos by Jesse Milani The Terrace Bay area is a hotspot for Lake Superior surfing
I
t’s tough enough to convince a person to jump into Lake Superior on a hot July day, let alone trying to get someone to go in the lake at sub-zero air temperatures in the middle of November. But this is exactly where you will find some of the Great Lakes surfers. Lake Superior, as it turns out, has phenomenal surfing conditions along its north shore, with a surfing community hotspot based out of Terrace Bay. Terrace Bay hosts the Waasaashkaa: The Gathering of the Great Lakes Surfers surfing festival each autumn. Southwest prevailing winds working their way across
Superior produce the perfect conditions for hitting the water. Lake Superior can be an unforgiving lake, reputed for producing harsh conditions not for the faint of heart. A surfer’s grit can be seen as they rush, surfboard in hand, toward the beast of an inland ocean. Before putting on your wetsuit and jumping into the water, you are going to want to do two things: limber up and hit the restroom. Wetsuits can be a nuisance to take on and off. They’re made of foam neoprene, which helps keep the surfer warm while catching waves out on the water. A surfer’s
Surfers may spend hours in the water waiting for the perfect conditions
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surfboard preference is dependent on skill level and surf conditions, and can range from six feet to eight feet long. Surfboards often showcase a surfer’s unique personality, represented by various customizable designs. Once a surfer has their wetsuit and surfboard, all they can do is wait for the perfect conditions to hit the water. Surfing is the process of building a relationship with the water. One must spend hours in the water surveying the waves, monitoring the direction of wind, and trying not to freeze while looking for the ideal conditions. More than anything,
surfing is the practice of patience. Becoming familiar with water patterns allows a surfer to make the best of a potential wave. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to surf the Pacific Ocean in the beautiful country of Costa Rica. During that time, I was taught the term pura vida, which translates to “pure life.” When surfing Lake Superior, I often get that same feeling of purity. Connecting with Superior is something I believe every Great Lakes surfer is striving to do—waiting for the lake to reward you for your patience with the perfect wave.
Outdoor
Two surfers in wetsuits, which are a must for surfing Lake Superior's cold waters
This holiday season may be different, but it can still be festive. Now booking private/semi-private luncheons with regular catering & special holiday menus available. Advance Booking Required, c o n t a c t o u r S a l e s Te a m a t 807-344-0777
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Leigh Nunan
CityScene
Jon Thompson (left) and Ryan McMahon (right) have released Canadaland's Return to Thunder Bay podcast
Thunder Bay Podcast Returns for a Second Season By Susan Goldberg
I
n 2018, Ryan McMahon, a comedian and broadcaster from Couchiching First Nation, set out to explore possibly the most urgent question plaguing the City of Thunder Bay: why were so many Indigenous kids dying here, their bodies showing up again and again in the city’s waterways? That exploration became the podcast Thunder Bay. The five-part series didn’t shy away from delving deep into the seedy backrooms, basements, and behind-closeddoors manoeuvring of the city’s powerbrokers, bringing to light the systemic racism (not to mention the entrenched misogyny) that allowed police, politicians, judges, attorneys, and other so-called civic leaders to thrive in and perpetuate a culture in
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The Walleye
which Indigenous youth keep dying, with untold numbers more of their Anishinaabe kin exploited, trafficked, addicted, or missing. The series, part of the Canadaland platform of podcasts, didn’t diminish Thunder Bay’s notoriety as the murder and frequent hate crime capital of Canada. Nor did it serve to soften the harsh gaze on the city’s racism and corruption prompted by, among other things, the 2017 publication of Tanya Talaga’s Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death and Hard Truths in a Northern City. What Thunder Bay did do, say McMahon and producer Jon Thompson, was further open up a frank, painful, and long-overdue conversation—within Thunder Bay but also across Canada—about
Ontario Superior Court of Justice is scheduled to issue its verdict in the trial of Brayden Bushby, charged in the death of Barbara Kentner, the 34-year-old Anishinaabe woman who died after Bushby struck her with a trailer hitch from a moving car. And the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020 have prompted international scrutiny of corrupt and violent police practices and a call to defund forces. McMahon wanted to revisit the city, to dig deeper into troubling reports of increased gun and gang violence, new deaths, and the local
Leigh Nunan
Continuing the Conversation
systemic racism. And now, they’re continuing that conversation. Return to Thunder Bay picks up where the first season left off, with three new episodes airing in November and December 2020. The timing is prescient. Since the original season dropped, two independent investigations have found systemic racism in the city’s police force and oversight board, castigating them for grotesque incompetence and indifference in the handling of Indigenous deaths in the city. The second season’s final episode will air during the time that the
Courtesy of Michah Dowbak
CityScene
Michah Dowbak
Blake Angeconeb
The Dichotomy of Thunder Bay The podcast’s artwork, created by Michah Dowbak and Blake Angeconeb police force’s request for increased funding in response. If, perhaps, too little has changed in Thunder Bay, then at least McMahon and Thompson have been met with more openness on the part of interviewees. In Season 1, “people refused to talk to me,” says McMahon. “I was basically laughed out of most spaces I dared to show my face in.” The second season, however, contains interviews with mayor Bill Mauro, city councillor-at-large Aldo Ruberto, and Greg Giddens, the managing editor of the ChronicleJournal. It also features Talaga, veteran CBC journalist Jody Porter, and Senator Murray Sinclair, retired judge and chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, appointed by the Ontario Civilian Police Commission to investigate the Thunder Bay Police Services Board in 2017. With nearly two million listeners, Season 1 of the podcast blew apart the “isolation myth”—the idea that Thunder Bay, so geographically distant from other urban centres, can operate according to its own, secret, stubborn timetable and agenda, untouched by change or perspectives from “away.” “Thunder Bay doesn’t get to play the isolation card anymore,” says McMahon, pointing at the privilege inherent in assuming that the
city, a hub of commerce, education, travel, and health-care services for dozens of surrounding smaller communities and First Nations, was ever isolated. “From my point of view, as someone who grew up in Fort Frances, Thunder Bay was the big city. It’s not isolated—it’s the destination. Bro, you have a Boston Pizza! We’re not a million miles from somewhere—we are somewhere.” And, he and Thompson make clear, if we want to live up to our potential, we need to own our problems. “Thunder Bay can be a leader,” says Thompson. “We can be the first city to tackle, head on, the post– Truth and Reconciliation conversation throughout Canada. We can be the reason why young people are motivated to go to Lakehead University, why young families want to move here and buy starter homes, why people can champion and celebrate this place for working through this moment. But to do that, we have to be present for the conversations.” “By presenting this conversation,” says McMahon, “I hope we’ll encourage people to be brave, and to move intentionally and purposely toward building a good and just place for everyone who calls Thunder Bay home.”
Two Local Artists Create Artwork for Canadaland’s Return to Thunder Bay Podcast By Ayano Hodouchi Dempsey “I wanted to create striking art for an important podcast that tackles the most important issues that face Thunder Bay,” says Michah Dowbak, who was born and raised in the city. He and Lac Seul First Nation’s Blake Angeconeb created the artwork for season two of the Thunder Bay podcast, which kicked off in November. “I wanted to show the dichotomy of the city,” Dowbak continues. “While so many people live in a comfortable suburban middle class Thunder Bay, there is a giant problem with racism, poverty, and oppression.” The two artists had been talking about collaborating for a while, and, when Canadaland got in touch, this seemed like the perfect opportunity. Dowbak came up with the idea of a person standing in the foreground, looking out at the city, with Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay) looming in the distance. “I see my part of the art as setting out the status quo or ‘typical’ Thunder Bay, with Mount McKay [as a] backdrop,” Dowbak says. “This is then challenged by Blake’s designs flowing from the mountain.” The two artists exchanged ideas over the phone, and Angeconeb sent Dowbak a few drafts. Done in the Woodlands style, some were more abstract, some more animalbased, but the two eventually
decided on a version with human faces. “To me the content and colours of this piece showcase the intensity of what we were trying to capture,” Angeconeb says. “I love collaborating with other artists because the blend of two or more styles creates something fresh and exciting. [Dowbak’s] work is truly groundbreaking and next level, so I was beyond excited to create something with him.” Being a part of Canadaland’s Thunder Bay podcast means something to both artists. “The podcast that this piece is being used for is extremely important,” Angeconeb says. ”I applaud Canadaland for the work they do.” “Overall I want this art to challenge those who think that there is no systemic racism in Thunder Bay,” Dowbak adds. “I want people to listen and learn from this podcast, then take action and dismantle the broken institutions and policies that got us to where we are.” He believes a bottom-up approach can lead to change. “Support local artists, support grassroots journalism. If you have the means, find meaningful places to donate to,” he says. “Thunder Bay is a flawed but beautiful place. If we want to truly grow we need to acknowledge the systemic oppression of northern Ontario's Indigenous people.”
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CityScene
Silver Anniversary
Stacie Furlonger
The Bodymind Centre Celebrates, Expands in Response to COVID-19 By Pat Forrest
The Bodymind Centre has recently started offering chair yoga, including online
“O
ur 25th anniversary year was interrupted when we needed to close for four months,” says Bodymind Centre founder Erin May. “We started offering yoga in the park to help people relax and feel better as soon as we could.” Now re-opened, the centre says it has welcomed back 22 of its staff, including yoga and Pilates instructors, massage therapists, a hypnotherapist, counsellor, acupuncturist, and nutritionist in a physically distanced environment. Class sizes are smaller and there are many different styles to choose from like hot yoga, flow, yin, restorative, gentle,
chair yoga, anti-gravity yoga, TRX, and Pilates mat and reformer. Some change is in the air, however. In an email to The Walleye, May says that Instead of doing its traditional 30 Day Yoga Challenge this year, the centre has started a Wellness Reset program that will repeat in January. It includes Tai Chi, meditation, mindset seminars, in-depth holistic nutrition classes, sound therapy, chair yoga, and meditation/yoga retreats. People can take part in the full program or individual classes, while private classes are also available with registered massage therapist Sheila
United Foundation, a non-profit organization with the mission to empower girls to be strong, confident, and resilient. The program pairs girls with female athletic mentors to do workouts together and follow the tenets of the program, which include mindset and helping girls to become future leaders. The Bodymind Centre continues to develop into a place that is welcoming and sustaining for everyone. Visit bodymindcentre.com for more info
A fitness circle used in the centre’s Pilates mat and reformer class
Storm Caroll
Storm Caroll
Warm yin and twist yoga done in a heated studio
Sundell, who has been offering “Broga” for first responders and remedial movement classes to help those with injuries. Sundell is also developing a special movement class for mature bodies. Holistic nutritionist Liv Dennhardt offers one-on-one consultations to help people get on track with their health in addition to her weekly classes. May also provides training in vagal breathing, which has been found to help with relaxation, while hypnotherapist Barb Davies offers her services. The centre has also announced it has partnered with Strong Girls
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CityScene
EYE TO EYE
With Lisa Laco
As told to Matt Prokopchuk, Photo by Kay Lee
Lisa Laco was the host of the CBC Thunder Bay morning show for more than 20 years
L
isa Laco has been an institution of morning radio in Thunder Bay and across Northwestern Ontario for more than 20 years. Originally coming to CBC Thunder Bay in 1992 as the producer of the morning show (then called The Great Northwest, now Superior Morning) before moving on air, Laco, in late October, officially announced her retirement. Laco joined us over Zoom to talk about why now is the right time to call it a career, some of the moments in her career that stand out, and her passions outside of politics and radio. On why she’s stepping away from the microphone now: I have been mulling it over because I’m getting to that age anyway, but, when the pandemic hit and we were working from home, I noticed that I was having some voice problems, but I couldn’t nail it down. As time went on, it got a little bit more pronounced but, again, until I could get back into the studio and listen back—this was a couple of months ago before it’s as bad as it is now—I knew that something was wrong. So, my retirement plans, which I had already been exploring, just sped up a bit. So since then, we’ve been doing all the medical work to try and figure out what was going on. And I have to tell you, because you know, how
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much I loved that job; it was a tough decision but it was the right decision. On some of her most memorable broadcasts and what stands out: We began the pop-ups [on-location broadcasts] and they were so much fun. I learned so much about the city from those pop-ups. I remember being tucked away in the back of Harri Bakery, the hockey games, the [backyard] garage—they were a blast. I’ve learned a lot. I’ve learned so much about Indigenous cultures and reconciliation, residential schools—all of the issues around our brothers and sisters. And that has stood out for me over the years: that I came here absolutely ignorant to those issues and now I’m beginning to understand. I say “beginning,” because there’s still so much more to learn. [As for] people I’ve talked with, [Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief] Derek Fox always comes to mind… an amazing guy and works his heart out. I remember years ago, I interviewed [former NHL head coach] Ted Nolan, who came to Thunder Bay with his two sons and I thought he was so inspiring. Lynn Johnston of the For Better or For Worse comic series; the Thunder Bay Art Gallery put on a display of her work and she came to Thunder Bay, and that was amazing. […] I’ve always enjoyed interviewing students over the years. I remember talking to kids
as Sir Winston Churchill was shutting down and the kids merging with Westgate and how student bodies took that in hand to make everybody feel included. I mean, I could go on and on. Every day I came out of the show and said, “What a great show.” On interviewing Margaret Atwood: I was terrified, terrified. She came here to Thunder Bay as part of a speech she was giving at Chapters—the local Chapters store had won a contest by selling the most Margaret Atwood books—so she came and they kindly asked me to interview her in front of, it turned out, probably 500 people. She’s known to be sometimes a little prickly, so I researched like mad and read the books and she was charming. That was a standout. On what her current knitting project is: Oh, you don’t want to know [laughing]. In every room, there’s something. There’s a hat, there’s a sweater, there’s a pair of gloves. Any knitter will tell you they have a stash. I have a stash of projects waiting. And when I do finish something I think to myself, ‘Now, who does this belong to?’ because I rarely keep anything. The fun in knitting is giving it away… that part is pure fun. Most of the women at CBC Thunder Bay wear shawls that I’ve knitted them over the years because the
place is freezing [laughs]. On the last book she read: I’m reading Hillbilly Elegy right now. My sister recommended it to me. It’s by J.D. Vance, and it’s trying to explain the culture of Trump supporters in a backhanded kind of way; he talks about growing up in dirt-poor Kentucky and becoming a law school graduate from Yale, but watching his family over the years and his neighbours. It’s a fascinating read. Before that, I finished the new John Grisham one. That’s in the last three days. Also the new John Sandford one. On who her hero is: My family, my brothers and sisters. They, in my mind, are superstars, especially since I’ve been ill the last couple of weeks. They’ve been amazing. We lost our parents—I was in my early 30s, my baby sister was 25—and the six of us were then kind of on our own. We weren’t kids, but we weren’t grownups either, and to be left alone finding your way through university as many of them did, finding our way in the world and supporting each other... we did it. And we’re scattered from Norway, Ottawa, Halifax, Victoria, Newfoundland, and Thunder Bay, so we don’t see each other very often, but they are my heroes. Also, Brad, my husband, and my sons John Laco and Andrew Ryan.
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Photo credit Kelly Sebulski
“Whether you’re looking to dress up your home with beautiful Christmas décor, show that special someone you care with a beautiful diamond or a gift certificate for the hard to shop for relative, The Fort William Business District have you covered all year round. We would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Holiday season.” - The Fort William business district BIA and The Board
Madeline St in between Grandview Arena & Westminster United Church (not in arena parking lot)
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CityScene
This is Thunder Bay Interviews by Nancy Saunders, Photos by Laura Paxton This month we asked The Walleye readers their thoughts on the results of the U.S. presidential election.
Judy: Oh, I’m glad it’s over. That’s about it. I’m glad it’s over. I wish it would be over, for good.
Will: I have opinions that are constantly forming. Waiting for a peaceful transfer of power that hopefully will eventually happen. I’m very interested-slashconcerned about what happens if there isn’t one, and as a result the Republican party collapses, and what the future of American politics looks like.
Jenny: I think the whole thing was a bit of a gong show, and I just want it to be over. It’s just been non-stop for most of the year, and then the last month and all the days leading up to it, everything revolved around the election and I think we just want it to be over, and we want him to step down and accept the fact and be a—well I don’t think he would ever be a good loser, but—just accept that it’s over so that the whole world can move on.
Indoor seating available
Come in and try one of our Holiday Drinks Open 7 days a week Call 768-BEAN (2326) for takeout and daily specials. beanfiendcafe.com
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CityScene
Respecting the Space
Exquisite Gold & Gems Inc. Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photos by Kay Lee
WALL SPACE
It’s a family affair: Chuck and Christine Sandford have been involved in the gold and gems business since the late 80s. Chuck is a goldsmith, gemologist, and a certified appraiser. Christine manages the back end of the business along with marketing, and their daughter Armelle takes care of ads, merchandising, and the online store. Christine is wearing a Celtic-inspired “Fire” pendant by Keith Jack—a line that also includes a Tree of Life pendant that can be worn four different ways.
In addition to bringing in beautiful lines of jewelry and watches to Thunder Bay, Exquisite also custom designs its own trademarked pieces, including rings using local amethyst. “There is a lot of emotion in this business,” says Chuck. “A lot of happy milestones and meaningful milestones.” He reminisces about people who got engaged right in the store, and shares memories of seeing deep emotion in the eyes of clients when a sentimental piece is repaired. “The best part is the feeling: you can’t buy it; you can’t rent it. It’s a high and it lasts,” he says. “It’s as good as playing drums.” (Chuck is also the drummer for a new local cover band, Rage & Ruin. “We did three gigs and then COVID hit.”)
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When you step into the space that is the Exquisite Gold & Gems showroom, the natural light and customized interior lights dance in the space, and the oh-so-lovely jewelry twinkles under pristine cases. Tasteful garlands and ornaments mark the beginning of the holiday season, the busiest time of the year for the family business. “There is a renewed focus on shopping locally and I think people really appreciate that we are a local business with our wages going back into the community,” says Christine Sandford. “This started as a hobby for Chuck, selling to friends and family from a suitcase in Westfort,”
she adds, explaining how her husband John “Chuck” Sandford started selling jewelry in the late 80s. Chuck opened his first store in 1991, and has been in this centrally located space on Memorial Avenue since 2012. The storefront features their showroom and the back includes work areas for designs, repairs, appraisals, offices, and a staff room. There is an overarching family-like vibe amongst the staff, and emotion plays a huge part in the business—from proposals in the showroom to repairing a great-grandparent’s ring in the back—so respecting the space where everyone works is paramount.
“I have a problem with estate jewelry,” admits daughter Armelle, laughing. She wears one of the estate rings that “our goldsmith fixed for me.” In addition to trademarking custom designs, Exquisite is also unique because it repairs and sells one-of-a-kind estate pieces. This watch station means watches can be fixed relatively fast, most of the time while the customer waits.
CityScene
Jenna Doughty looks through the microscope of a laser welder, which welds using heat that is very focused. “You could weld something the size of a hair together,” explains Chuck. Doughty is a bench jeweler, goldsmith, and watch technician. She started with the store as a sales associate six years ago and recently graduated from George Brown College’s jewelry methods program. “My favourite part is the repair part: giving new life to something with a sentimental value is so much better.”
Chuck in the appraisal room, which includes a gemological microscope, a polariscope, which helps identify the polarity (single or double refractive) of the gemstone, and other industry-related gadgets. He is one of only a few practising certified appraisal professionals who has graduated from the Master Valuer Program. As an appraiser Chuck’s role includes identifying, grading, and valuing the stones. “This is the dirty room,” laughs Chuck. The polishing room has a negative draft, which means no dust comes out because of a built-in exhaust system with effective filters.
Komoski anneals a ring to make it more malleable and see if there are any seams before sizing. “I love working with metals,” she says. “It’s an answer to a calling. I have to be really, really focused. It’s a form of meditation.” Chuck agrees. “We really have to respect each other’s space when working. There is a code of silence, almost a forcefield. If she’s working on a piece I wait until she acknowledges me.” Jane Komoski shows how she uses a wax carving ring mandrel. Komoski creates custom designs as well as repairs jewelry. With over 38 years of experience, she is the go-to goldsmith at the store.
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Nathan McChristie
Courtesy of Kamview Nordic Centre
CityScene
Local ski areas consulted with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and organizations like the Ontario Snow Resorts Association for best COVID practices
A COVID Ski Season How Local Ski Areas are Prepping for an Unusual Year By Bonnie Schiedel
68 The Walleye
will have proper spacing and barriers, and you’ll be asked to give your information for contact tracing. New options include bringing your own meal and eating al fresco by the bonfire at Mount Baldy, a hostess to seat you at Loch, or getting your soup and cookie through a new
take-out window at Kamview. Passes, rentals and lessons Other changes have been made to minimize time in the chalet. For example, you can now buy your Mount Baldy lift passes online, says co-owner Jason Kardas. There’s an outdoor ticket window at Loch where you can pick up your day pass, says Alisia Cameron, the manager at Loch Lomond, and Loch is also collecting all rental information online so you can just pick up your equipment at a pre-booked time slot and hit the slopes. Lessons will continue but check your particular venue for new meeting sites and possible age restrictions.
Face covering A mask or buff to cover the face is obviously a must in every indoor setting. The downhill ski areas also require them to be worn in ski lift lines, on the lift itself, and on Baldy’s ski taxi, but can be removed for your run down the hill. You must ride the ski lift with a member of your bubble or by yourself. “I’m feeling optimistic,” says Cameron. “Skiing is a very popular activity that has pretty limited impact [from] all of these COVID restrictions.” Kardas agrees. “Get outdoors, go skiing, you can be very smart about it.”
Mount Baldy's chalet
Nathan McChristie
“W
e’re forecasting a pretty busy season,” says Dave Suttie, the manager at Kamview Nordic Centre. Whether you’re a longtime regular or want to give skiing a whirl this winter as a way to get some physically distanced fresh air and exercise, TBay skiers are spoiled for choice. We have Kamview Nordic Centre, Lappe Nordic Ski Club, and Tapiola Ski and Nature for cross-country skiing and Mount Baldy Ski Area and Loch Lomond Ski Area for downhill skiing, with some snowshoeing options thrown in there too. We talked to reps from Kamview, Loch, and Baldy to get an idea of what to expect, but be sure to check each venue’s website or social media for up-to-the-minute info. Chalets Chalets will be open for dining and washroom use only, which means you’re putting on your ski boots in the parking lot and storing your gear in your vehicle. Much smaller numbers are allowed for in-chalet dining, which
Kamview Nordic Centre has added two new outhouses
Courtesy of Kamview Nordic Centre
Nathan McChristie
CityScene
Mount Baldy Ski Area
For group lessons at Kamview Nordic Centre, there are new unheated shelters in which to change your boots
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Make Christmas special! Have a safe and happy holiday season.
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CityScene
Reclaiming Territory Through Language Patricia Ningewance's Book A Self-Guided Journey to Learning Indigenous Languages By Savanah Tillberg
A
uthor and associate professor Patricia Ningewance has dedicated her career to reviving Anishinabemowin, or the Ojibway language. Ningewance describes herself as a “word person” and explains that she developed a love for linguistics from her family. Ningewance is from Lac Seul First Nation, where she spent much of her life living with her parents and grandmother. “My mother was a master storyteller and my grandmother was the one who looked after us when my parents would be out fishing and hunting, and she would play word games with us,” she explains. Ningewance has ensured that linguistics remain a part of her family by passing down her knowledge to her grandson, Aandeg Muldrew, who at 22 years old, teaches alongside her at the University of Manitoba. “I have been taking him to my university classes since he was 13 years old and through those courses he has learned the grammar,” she says. “We have gone on road trips together and visited different language camps in addition to the learning he has done on his own and now he is a fluent speaker and teacher.” Through teaching, writing books, and working in radio, Ningewance has done a tremendous amount of work keeping the
Ojibway language alive. However, she feels that more needs to be done to keep it from disappearing. “I’ve always taught the grammar because universities expect that you teach grammar,” she says. “But I’ve found that there are not very many new speakers of the language coming from this. Likewise, they’ve been teaching Ojibway in the elementary schools in Ontario and Manitoba with a focus on grammar and spelling and the children are not learning to speak the language anymore.” Having already written over a dozen books, back in January, Ningewance published her latest work: Reclaiming Our Territory, Word By Word: Grassroots Language Teaching. The book is a self-guided lecture book where speakers of any language, not just Ojibway, can take a group through one of 63 preplanned lessons to learn the language through spoken word. “I find that people think that they can’t teach a language without knowing the proper grammar and spelling and then they become intimidated by that,” she says. “So hopefully this book can help encourage them to share their knowledge.” Reclaiming Our Territory, Word By Word: Grassroots Language Teaching can be purchased online through Mazinaate Publishing at mazinaate.com.
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CityScene
GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET
Joe Myslicki, owner of Jo-Mik Baking
Jo-Mik Baking Story by Sarah Kerton, Photos by Keegan Richard
W
hen Joe Myslicki retired from a career of teaching, he needed something to keep him occupied. After trying out a security gig that he didn’t care for, his friends and family convinced him to follow his interests and talents at baking instead. Myslicki was born and raised in the Slate River Valley, where he still lives, and has enjoyed baking all of his life. Eleven years ago, he decided to turn his talents to creating Jo-Mik Baking, which quickly gained popularity and has been a staple at the Thunder Bay Country Market ever since. If you are a carrot cake or butter tart aficionado, then you likely already know all about Jo-Mik Baking. I have taken my share of trips to a
local spot where I know I can source his amazing carrot cake by the slice when the market is not open. But it’s not all butter tarts and carrot cake— Myslicki offers a variety of classic baked goods such as pies, squares, muffins, and breads. His pies include a variety of seasonal flavours, such as lemon, blueberry, cherry, pumpkin, raisin, and rhubarb. “For myself, it’s nothing fancy; it’s been down-toearth, plain, old-fashioned desserts,” he says. “I enjoy making everything from scratch.” Myslicki's favourite part of being a market vendor is mingling with his customers, and he has gotten to know quite a few over the years, with regulars who annually dress their holiday tables with his pies to share with family. Myslicki is now over 70, and
hopes to continue baking and sharing it at the market for as long as he can (and so do we). It’s a busy week for Myslicki with the two market days, which he prepares for the day before. He also provides baking to a few businesses around town, such as The Fish Shop in Shuniah and the Windy Shores Café at the
waterfront. Myslicki’s partner helps him with packaging, and he also gets a bit of help when necessary from family. You can find Jo-Mik Baking on the main floor of the market, and he also offers a website where you can order for delivery: jomikbaking.com.
Jo-Mik Baking’s pies A selection of blueberry muffins
A selection of tarts, including raisin and pecan butter tarts
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Explore the City of Thunder Bay’s New Open Data Portal Through the practice of Open Government, that promotes transparency, access and collaboration, identified municipal data used in City operation is now open data, freely available for use by you. • Access City data, documents, apps & maps • Search, browse, and download • Use, repurpose, and redistribute • Free from copyright or patent restrictions
Thunder Bay open data means new possibilities to learn, grow, innovate and develop!
Visit: thunderbay.ca/opendata
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confederationcollege.ca
CityScene
The Bookshelf E Fresh Reads by Local Authors
very December The Walleye compiles a list of books published by authors from our region from that year. As you shop for the bookworm in your life, here are 21 books published in the past 12 months that would make for some great gifts.
Fiction and Poetry
Eleanor Albanese If Tenderness Be Gold
Vera Constantineau three lines at a time
Deborah Donahue I Used to Live on Banning Street
Annette Pateman
John Pringle
Brenda Fisk (editor)
Elle Andra-Warner
Lighthouses of Lake Superior's North Shore
Jinan Fiaidhi, Debnath Bhattacharyya, N. Thirupathi Rao (editors)
Sonja C. Grover
W.R. “Bill” McRae
Patricia Ningewance
W. Craig Perdue
Spectrum
Raven Dance: Stories of Northwestern Ontario Vol II
Canadian Shorts II: A Collection of Short Stories
Non-Fiction
A.A. Parr (editor) Isolated Together: Northern
Ontario perspectives of life in a global pandemic
Max Haiven
Revenge Capitalism: The Ghosts of Empire, the Demons of Capital, and the Settling of Unpayable Debts
Richard Asham, Rusty Brown (editors)
Ryan Alford
Swan
Seven Absolute Rights: Recovering the Historical Foundations of Canada's Rule of Law
Donald J. Kreewin
Nicolas Lépine
The Invisible American: The War Years Before and Beyond
Guerre d’Espagne et socialisme international: dernière chance pour l’ordre démocratique d’entre-deux-guerres
They Also Served: A Spitfire Pilot’s Memoir from Enlistment to Victory
Smart Technologies in Data Science and Communication
Reclaiming Our Territory, Word By Word: Grassroots Language Teaching
Judicial Activism and the Democratic Rule of Law: Selected Case Studies
Mr. Prime Minister You're Killing Me: Does Anybody Care?
Kids/YA
Frederick Brent Scollie Biographical Dictionary and History of Victorian Thunder Bay
M.K. Krys
This Town is Not All Right
Jean E. Pendziwol
I Found Hope in a Cherry Tree
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CityScene
Reclaiming Space Entrepreneur Plans New Market in Former Eaton’s Building
Story by Matt Prokopchuk, Photos by Chad Kirvan
The future market space as it looks now. Hurley says a lot of design and construction work needs to be done
A
once-popular retail location in Thunder Bay’s downtown north core is undergoing some changes, with one local entrepreneur saying she intends to open a new market space in the former Eaton’s building by the summer of 2021. The building has seen a number of businesses and organizations occupy various parts of its space since the Canadian-owned department store closed in 1997. Prior to that, for just shy of 60 years, the site was the centrepiece for retail in the downtown north core, and it’s that vibe that Maelyn Hurley says she wants Goods & Co. Market to bring back. “It’s kind of been mentioned a few times that there should be a market in the Eaton’s building,” she says. “With my passion towards the arts community, I’ve been dreaming up this idea of building a market, like an urban market space in our downtown.” Hurley says she will be one of several tenants in the building and plans to sublease her portion of it—13,000 square feet of the main floor’s northwest portion—to 35 to 40 other businesses, organizations, creators, artists, and artisans, with
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everyone functioning as a sort of a collective. The market will also feature a public space with a licensed bar and a workshop and small event space. “That’s really what I want this market to be for Thunder Bay—this full experience of visual and sensory and food and drink and connecting with people and building community, essentially,” she says. “It’s a platform for new business, really is what it is; it’s that opportunity to get those businesses that are maybe operating out of their home a platform that they can showcase and build a business from.” Other priorities for the market, Hurley says, include focusing on cultural diversity and being a welcoming place, as well as promoting food sustainability and environmental responsibility. As for the location, Hurley says she’s excited she will be operating in a space that has such history attached to it. Eaton’s opened for business in the space in 1938 after the building, which features facings of polished black granite and Tyndall stone, was built by Port Arthur’s MacConnell Construction Co. Inside, while multiple renovations and repurposings of the space have wiped away many physical remnants of that
history, Hurley says she’s working to preserve and restore what’s left, such as the original terrazzo flooring. “The idea is that we’re going to polish it up and … keep that part of it alive,” she says. “With the design of the space, I want to have it be a little bit of a nostalgic kind of throwback to that era.” Right now, there’s still a lot of
work to do to design and construct the interior, as well as install modern, efficient doors and outside display windows, but Hurley says it’s an exciting process. “There’s definitely still little glimpses of Eaton’s that are shining through.”
Maelyn Hurley is planning to open the Goods & Co. Market in part of the former Eaton’s building
A P P LY N O
W
CHANGE YOUR LIFE THROUGH LEARNING (807) 475-6110 | 1-800-465-5493 (toll free) recruitment@confederationcollege.ca
confederationcollege.ca The Walleye
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CityScene
Thunder Bay language specialist Julia Postigo-Rombola prior to an online class
One of Postigo-Rombola’s virtual literacy classes
Invisible Barriers
Literacy Specialist Calls for More Attention to Learning Barriers By Matt Prokopchuk
A
literacy specialist in Thunder Bay says more attention needs to be drawn to invisible learning barriers like dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and that more help and resources need to find their way to help those who have the conditions. Julia Postigo-Rombola, the owner of Naturally Literate, a literacy centre in the city, says stigma and a lack of understanding around these barriers can lead to children being unfairly and wrongly criticized and mocked for being lazy or lacking intelligence, which then can lead to low self-esteem and mental health issues. And that’s on top of the challenges to learning they already deal with. “Dyslexia is a language-based barrier, it has nothing to do with [intelligence], like your IQ,” PostigoRombola says. “It has to do with processing information from a page to your mind, or from your mind to a page; it has nothing to do with comprehension.” Dyslexia can manifest itself in many ways, for example, a person verbalizing “b” as “d” or “m” as “w” (or vice versa) when reading; similarly, people with dyslexia may speak a whole word in reverse (such as saying “god” when the word on the page is “dog”), even though they
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fully comprehend the difference. Letters may appear jumbled, or students may have trouble connecting letter symbols with sounds. These challenges aren’t uncommon either, with dyslexia being the most prevalent type of learning disability, according to the International Dyslexia Association, with as many as 15–20% of the population nationally having at least some of the symptoms. Aside from working with young people who have challenges with literacy, Postigo-Rombola knows of them first-hand, as she has dyslexia (as well as dysgraphia, another condition that affects handwriting) and ADHD. The latter, she says, makes learning difficult as the mind never ceases racing, making concentration very difficult, even if the person is outwardly calm. Frustration at not being able to process these learning tasks can easily take hold, she says, and there can be wait lists for the necessary assessments for the child to receive specialized help. “When I was learning to write in grade four, for example, I would write my “j’s” backwards, and it’s my name,” she says. “It didn’t matter that I knew how to write it—I could see it, I could recognize that that’s a ‘j’— but I kept flipping the ‘j’ the other
way. And it’s like 15 days in a row and I see those 15 failures in a row and it’s just like ‘give up, rip the paper, scream, storm out the door,’ because it’s so frustrating.” Ontario’s human rights watchdog has also taken notice, as it is in the midst of a probe into whether the province’s public education system is meeting the needs of students specifically with reading disabilities like dyslexia. The Right to Read public inquiry by the Ontario Human Rights Commission, which is expected to produce a report in spring 2021 containing detailed findings and recommendations to government and education stakeholders,
held public hearings in four Ontario cities, including Thunder Bay prior to the pandemic, along with soliciting feedback through numerous other methods. Overall, Postigo-Rombola says she fears that kids are “falling through the cracks,” especially with the pandemic-era shift to remote and virtual learning, and wants people to know there are services available for professional help and advocacy. “It’s really challenging for families,” she says. “When I work with families, it’s a lot of emotional support for the families too.” For more information, visit naturallyliterate.org.
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CityScene
Jacquie Kennedy, owner and head trainer at Sweatclub Fitness Studio
Sweatin’ it Out
COVID-19 Demands Diligence says Local Fitness Centre Operator By Matt Prokopchuk
J
acquie Kennedy’s business looks very different than it did nine months ago, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kennedy is the owner and head trainer at Sweatclub Fitness Studio, a boutique physical training facility that offers guided training in Thunder Bay. When the pandemic hit in March, Kennedy was forced to vacate her 1,600-square-foot studio on the south side. For the balance of 2020, she stayed in business primarily virtually (with some outdoor summertime workouts), offering online classes and instruction and allowing clients to sign out some equipment. Then in October, she was able to move into a new physical space, settling into a building on Algoma Street. Kennedy is working
with less room now, however, as it’s only half the size of where she operated before. She describes the new facility as “very clean and sparse,” but “still very warm and welcoming.” Like many businesses, public health guidelines have meant extreme caution in how Sweatclub Fitness Studio operates. Due to the increase in necessary distancing during fitness classes when the Thunder Bay area moved from green to yellow in the province’s COVID response framework, Kennedy is now able to accommodate a maximum of three clients in the space. “I’ve always been somebody who’s really focused on cleanliness and taking care of my clients to keep them safe with regards to even cold and flu season and things like that,” she says. “I
Directional arrows on the floor help with social distancing always insisted on equipment being wiped down and everything like that, so that part wasn’t too bad.” Still, she says, there are changes, over and above how many people can take part at one time. Arrows now line the floor dictating the directions people are to face, in order to prevent people from facing each other (and possibly spreading droplets through exertion) when they work out, regardless of distancing. Attention to handwashing, health screening, and extra sanitization is also top-of-mind, Kennedy says, adding that “it’s not a hardship; […] I really, really want people safe.”
As for operating her business during a time when local COVID numbers are on the rise, with no clear sense of if, or when, further restrictions or a lockdown may be necessary, she says, “It’s been stressful.” “It would be a really, really hard thing to be closed for any length of time again, for me as a business; I don’t know if I could survive being closed again, to be honest,” she says, adding that going back to virtual-only classes still may be an option. “It’s scary right now for me. I’m waiting for the hammer to drop but I’m trying to stay up and positive and keep everybody coming.”
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CityScene
A Taste of Home New Cookbook Creates a Recipe for the Future By Marcia Arpin
A
new cookbook, expected to be published in time for the holidays, will make a perfect stocking stuffer. It is a delicious collaboration by local contributors and includes about 60 family-favourite recipes from diverse cultures, including a whole section on Finnish favourites. The book, which comes from Suomi Koti of Thunder Bay, has been designed for beginners and experienced cooks alike and features recipes contributed by residents at the long-term seniors’ residence, as well as the Thunder Bay community at large. Suomi Koti is a not-for-profit organization founded on September
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12,1984. Construction of their building started in 1986 and welcomed its first tenants in April 1988. Situated on just over five acres of land in an urban setting, this apartment complex is designed to maintain a country atmosphere. The current building consists of 40 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom apartments in a three-storey building, fully equipped with saunas, exercise rooms, craft rooms, a library, a common room with kitchen facilities, and a garden area including a pond with a gazebo. Since 2011, the board of directors has recognized the value of expanding their building to include more space to welcome the interest from
The Suomi Koti seniors’ residence across Canada for their compassionate care. The cookbook, which will also feature photos and write-ups about Suomi Koti and the Thunder Bay community as a whole, is part of fundraising efforts towards that goal. The name Suomi Koti simply means “Finnish home,” but both of these words evoke an abundance of traditions, warmth, and familiarity for different people, all of which are beautifully reflected in the design, atmosphere, and lifestyle of this local residence. The board says it’s dedicated to providing a home where every
individual can thrive independently. Social and recreational opportunities and events are planned, often revolving around food, coffee, tea, dinners, music, and barbecues. A cookbook became a logical project to kickstart a campaign for planned expansions to the building and meet the needs of the community’s aging population. Cookbooks will be sold at the Suomi Koti office and local retail outlets. Priced under $20, this is an easy gift idea for those who crave a taste of Thunder Bay. For more information, visit suomikoti.com.
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The Walleye
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CityScene
Deck the Hauls
CANNABIS CORNER
Cannabis Stocking Stuffers By Justin Allec
W
hatever your holiday season is going to look like this year, you’ll no doubt be stuck with a few names on your list that pose gifting challenges. Instead of furiously learning how to knit mittens or settling for—sigh—gift cards, might I suggest some cannabis options? A small cannabis gift has the same advantages of giving food or drink. It’s consumable and doesn’t take up much space, but also offers a special experience for the recipient that they can use at their convenience. Whether you’re buying for the enthusiast or the “once in a while” user, The Walleye has done the running around for you.
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I’m a little annoyed that while OCS has several strains that are priced below $5, they’re misleadingly only available in the largest of quantities. So, if you’re searching for the absolute bargains at OCS, look to the pre-rolled joints for the best price-per-gram and the ultimate stocking stuffer. Personally, I’m partial to this option from Pure Sunfarms, as they offer three 0.5 g joints for just over ten bucks. Their version of Pink Kush nicely balances fruity and earthy terpenes to offer a moderately heady experience. Nothing exceptional, but a strain anyone would be happy to have on hand.
Christmas is supposed to be about sharing, so I’m recommending a reliable mid-range strain that should please even the Grinches on your list. There are usually a few suppliers offering this strain but Redecan is reliably enjoyable. Not too heady or heavy—but still heady and heavy enough—Wappa is an indica that offers a positive experience without the drawbacks. A strong, sweetish aroma that verges on skunkiness, Wappa has fruity terpenes galore that make this strain a delight to smoke.
When you need a little something special to show that you really care, this strain is like a concentration of holiday cheer—funky, confusing, and slightly debilitating holiday cheer, like the kind that manifests in the wee hours of Christmas Eve after everyone should be in bed. A sativa-dominant strain, Chocolate Fondue crosses the positively euphoric uplift of the Chocolope strain with the relaxing effects of a Cheese strain for something that hits both the body and mind. The name refers less to the flavour than that sensation of luxurious fullness that chocolate promises. Soothing and energizing at the same time?! That’s the right kind of Christmas nuttiness.
Pink Kush Pre-Roll $11.96/1.5 g
Wappa $7.91/1.0 g
Chocolate Fondue $12.60/1.0 g
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CityScene
‘Tis the Season of Giving Back
A Look at How Much We Donate to Charity By Raven Wheesk, Economist, Northern Policy Institute
‘T
is the season for corny Hallmark movies, family and friends, and of course, giving. It is well-documented in Canada and the United States that charitable donations surge during the holidays. CanadaHelps reported in 2015 that between 2004 and 2014, 36% of annual charitable donations were made in December. The increased giving becomes even more pronounced as the year ends, with 10% of donations occurring in the last three days, and 5.5% on December 31. In 2018, Canadians donated $9.95 billion according to tax filer data, with $4.33 billion of this total being donated by Ontarians. In Ontario, the average tax filer donates $415 annually, but Ontario figures are not representative of the entire province. Our graphic summarizes 2018 donation data for several communities in northern Ontario, with the provincial and national figures included for comparison. As is seen in the graphic, 22.3% of Thunder Bay tax filers made charitable donations in 2018. This is the second-highest rate of the included locations, trailing only Sault Ste. Marie, and ahead of the provincial and national rates. As well, Thunder Bay’s average donation was $1,120. This was quite a bit less than Ontario’s $2,038, but Thunder Bay trailed only North
88 The Walleye
Bay and Kenora in the province’s northern regions. In fact, all northern Ontario communities donate less than the provincial average, but the median donor incomes are also all lower, except for Greater Sudbury. Thunder Bay has a median donor income of $59,240, the third lowest, which indicates that half of all donors earn below this threshold. Coupled with the high representation of donors, this shows that Thunder Bay relies on modest donations from a broader group of people, rather than just
those at the high end of the income spectrum. Of course, Ontario’s average donation is skewed by some very large donations made in places like Toronto, where the top one percent’s annual income threshold is over $300,000—the second highest in Canada after Calgary. Compare this to the income of the top 1% earners elsewhere: the Canadian national average is $236,000, and in Thunder Bay it's $190,000. For such individuals, substantial donations can be relatively insignificant as a share of
their income, while the same is not the case for most folks in northern Ontario. With the holidays just around the corner, charitable giving is sure to ramp up in Thunder Bay and across the country. While Thunder Bay typically sees more individuals making donations, more can always be done to help those in need. This holiday season comes amidst a pandemic, so while big family gatherings might be off the table, giving a little extra back to the community should not be.
Happy Holidays
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CityScene
A New Space for a Safe Space The Underground Gym Moves Into New Home
Story by Nancy Saunders, Photo by Kay Lee
T
he Underground Gym has experienced devastating losses over the past year. In November 2019, the gym’s location on Simpson Street was forced to close because of extensive water damage caused by a fire in an adjacent building. Then, back in April, founder Peter Panetta visited the site and discovered that the majority of the equipment and supplies being stored in the building had been stolen. “They took pretty much everything. Art supplies, guitars, drums, all the programs that we had going on, everything was taken,” he says. “All the boxing gloves, the
90 The Walleye
heavy bags.” Most tragically, Panetta shares the dire effects the forced closure of the gym has had on some of its members—suicides and overdoses resulting from the kids being back on the streets. Panetta has a simple answer when asked how he has remained motivated and hopeful during this time. “This is not a gym, really, and it’s not a youth centre, really—it’s a family. A family is exactly what it is,” he says. “After 22 years, they keep coming back and we’ve become family, that’s what keeps me going.” Former members volunteer their time and donate in other ways
to keep the gym going, and Panetta says there are “second generation kids” coming to the Underground Gym who are the children of past members. The Underground Gym’s mandate is to offer free access to equipment and mentoring in a safe environment that is open to children and youth who lack the resources required to access existing facilities. “It’s been around for 22 years. Most people know about it, and they know what I’m doing and what I’m trying to do and trying to achieve with these children,” he says. “They believe in it, they believe in the program, that keeping vulnerable children safe and happy is a plus. And that you’re more apt to become a well-adjusted adult if you’re given those options.” Panetta explains that the concept came out of his own experience and in seeing a major need in the community. “I’m a boxing coach and a fitness instructor, and I offer it to the neighbourhood kids, the ones that can’t afford to go to the gyms and take boxing lessons.” When he first came up with the concept “people were excited,” Panetta says. “And they came and helped me by doing what they could. And we got it going, and kept it going.” This community support has continued over the years, with donations and volunteers helping the gym continue. When faced with the challenge of raising $90,000 to purchase a new building, Panetta appealed to the community to help finance it. The new building is within a kilometre of the previous location, and is 5,000 square feet of usable space. “It will accommodate
not only the gym and the boxing area, but a youth centre with everything we offered—music lessons and everything else—and as well we can build a kitchen back there. It’s the ideal. We’re very, very lucky that this has come up for us.” In less than one week, the funding goal was reached. “The community is unbelievable. I’ve been in limbo for a year. And there was just an overwhelming response, to reach the $90,000 cost of the building in less than a week is unbelievable.” Musselwhite Mine contributed $20,000 toward the building and the operating of a kitchen. Other financial and equipment donations have continued, and Panetta is pleased and hopeful about the Underground Gym’s future. “When there’s no need for an Underground, we’re living in a very good society. If my building is ever empty, that would be the ideal— and it isn’t. In 22 years, it just keeps increasing and increasing. There is a huge need,” Panetta says. The Underground Gym takes possession of the new building November 30. Moving into the holiday season, Panetta says people interested in supporting the Underground Gym can contact him directly at undergroundgym@tbaytel.net, and he can connect them with families for whom they can purchase gifts. “It’s really simple. If we take care of a child, that child will take care of us later on ... When you give a child love and respect, they’ll give it back tenfold,” he says. “I just want to love these children and make them feel like they’re somebody. That’s all I’m trying to do.”
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The Walleye
Music
Open Mic
Jam Nights Return to Branch 5 Legion Story and photo by Matt Prokopchuk
O
rganizers of a series of musical open mic nights at a northside Thunder Bay legion say they’re welcoming performers back to the stage after taking a break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and that they’re looking for new musicians to come out. The weekly performances at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 started about six years ago with more of a focus on the blues, but have since expanded to welcome all genres and even a few non-musical acts, says Ed Mlynarski, the organizer, or as he calls himself, the “traffic cop.” The COVID-19 pandemic halted the open jams for nearly six months, but Mlynarski, a musician and legion member as well, says they’ve gone back to holding them Sunday evenings, after running several on Sunday afternoons starting back up in October. “It’s just an open jam where individuals can come, or a whole band,” he says. “There’s backline provided, there’s a set of drums, there’s a bass amplifier and of course we have the P.A.” The evenings are informal—musicians don’t have to sign up ahead of time, they just speak
with the organizers and play their set. “It’s really laid-back,” Mlynarski says, adding that the evenings are a good way for musicians to meet, play with other people, and even try out different styles of music. “That’s what jams are good for,” he says. Pandemic protocols are in place in the Legion’s club room, including social distancing and proper barriers and cleaning practices, although Mlynarski recommends bringing your own microphone. While turnout is generally strong, Mlynarski says organizers are looking for younger musicians to come out and join, stressing that legions are places where people of all ages can enjoy themselves. “I’d like to get more young people involved in this,” he says. “There have been some that come out—they come out for a bit.” Mlynarski adds that ultimately he’d like to see some younger musicians take over running the evening jams. The open jams at the Branch 5 Legion on Van Norman Street take place Sunday evenings from 8 pm to 11 pm.
Ed Mlynarski organizes the Branch 5 Legion’s Sunday night open mic events
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93
Music
Nick Sherman’s Silver Linings
New EP, Podcast, Among Musician’s Pandemic Projects By Kris Ketonen
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has been a roller coaster for Thunder Bay musician Nick Sherman. “It’s been a challenge,” he says. “I released an album a year ago […] and we had toured a bunch last fall, and we toured a bunch throughout the winter, and we were gearing up for a pretty busy summer. And the pandemic hit, and every week it was watching shows drop off the map. One show after another. We were like ‘maybe this month will be better.’ By the time, I think, the end of April hit, our entire summer was gone. So that was so stressful.” The challenge, then, became one of adaptation, Sherman says. “The summer kind of rolled into this whole idea of streaming shows,” he says. “I’ve still been trying to process and wrap my head around that, because it’s such a weird way to have to connect with people, you know? You use it to stay connected, but you really rely on those intimate, one-on-one, or in-the-same-room moments, and we don’t get that.” Sherman did do some shows online over the summer, which helped keep him motivated musically. The pandemic also gave him a chance to bring some long-gestating projects forward. One of those is the video for Sherman’s song “The Fire,” which was directed by local, award-winning filmmaker Michelle Derosier and recently released as part of APTN’s
94 The Walleye
Amplify series. Another milestone will be the upcoming release of a new, four-song EP by Sherman’s band Carver (which also includes Jimmy Breslin, Derek Shaffer, and Chad Kirvan), which will be out by January. But there’s more on the horizon for Sherman: he’s also scoring the music for Tanya Talaga’s new podcast, Seven Truths, scheduled to launch November 26 on Audible. “The podcast really focuses on communities in the Northwestern Ontario region, and looking at these very specific issues in terms of racism, or inequality,” Sherman says. “It’s important to talk about these things, and bring them out, and show people that this is a reality for people, and not everyone’s experiences are the same.” Sherman says it was important to listen to the people telling their stories when developing the music. “For me, that was huge, to do my best to get into the moment of when the interview was happening,” he says. “They were all challenging stories. There was anger, and there was sadness, and there was joy, and there was resilience. Part of the process was really diving in, and really making sure I’m capturing those themes, and those elements.” For more on Nick Sherman, you can visit his website at nicksherman.ca or follow him on Facebook at @nickshermanmusic.
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The Walleye
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WISHING EVERYONE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON.
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Happy Holidays! Wishing you a joyful holiday season with family and friends.
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98 The Walleye
Music
Performing in the New Normal
Alfie Zappacosta Postpones Thunder Bay Concert Series By Matt Prokopchuk
“A
very intimate show” is how Alfie Zappacosta describes what audiences can expect from a series of concerts he intends to perform in Thunder Bay. The multi award-winning singer, songwriter, and guitarist—known largely for a string of big hits in the 1980s like “We Should Be Lovers,” “Nothing Can Stand In Your Way,” and “Overload” from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack— was scheduled to return to the Lakehead in early December before announcing on his Facebook page that rising numbers of COVID-19 cases forced the shows’ cancellation, but that new dates are forthcoming. The concerts would have come just over a year after he performed at 2019’s Bluesfest, and while that gig saw Zappacosta take to the Marina Park stage in front of thousands of people, the veteran performer says he truly appreciates the chance to connect with his audience that a smaller show allows. “They will get a wonderful, intimate show with all the hits they want to hear, and if they don’t hear [one], you ask me and I’ll try to pull it out for you,” he told The Walleye in a November interview before his announcement that the December 3, 4, and 5 shows were off the table. “You get to do exactly what it is you like to do,” he continues, referring to playing smaller venues. “People, you can see, they keep coming back, you get to know them a little bit more and you find those are really who appreciate what you’re doing: they start asking about this lyric or that lyric and what kind of guitar you’re playing.” COVID-19, when it’s not cancelling shows, has also played a huge part in the size of the crowd at any concert. Audience numbers for the three shows here were to be capped at 50 people each, with all social
distancing and other public health protocols in place. Keyboardist Andrew Glover was to join Zappacosta on stage at the Branch 5 Legion, with Zappacosta handling vocals and guitar. Without tour funding from a major record label like he had in the 80s, he says he’s become very adept at taking his show on the road while configuring his songs to a variety of band setups—whether it be only with a keyboardist, as a trio or, when circumstances allow, a full band. That versatility has served Zappacosta well, especially during a time when playing live shows has been anything but normal. Over the past several months, he’s also played gigs in his hometown of Edmonton, as well as in Calgary and Kelowna. COVID precautions, like plexiglass barriers between himself and the crowds, have put new wrinkles into the experience from the stage. “The plexiglass, in this particular case, the way the lights were, all I could see in the plexiglass was me—a reflection of me,” he says referring to a recent concert where seeing the audience was difficult. “It was kind of like ‘I guess I’ll play for myself,’ [so] that’s interesting. And to see […] the fact that there’s a lot of empty chairs is kind of like a weird psych.” At his Calgary show, his keyboardist was on stage while Zappacosta sang from the attached green room, still visible to the audience, but with plexiglass in the doorway. “If your eyesight’s okay, you could look out there and see that they’re smiling and clapping, so take the joy in that and continue,” he says. “It’s obviously very doable but it’s a different world for sure.” And while the Thunder Bay audience can expect to hear many classics from Zappacosta’s vast catalogue
when he does get to visit, the musician isn’t solely relying on past glories these days. He says he’s recorded a new album, called Saved, which is set for release in early 2021, and has signed with Alma Records in Toronto to promote it. The album will feature a blend of the various genres he’s worked in over the years, including pop, rock, and smooth jazz, with his
sense of melody and voice the key links. “If you can imagine, since the 80s all the way to now, it’s got elements of all that crashed into nine songs,” he says. You can keep up to date with Zappacosta, including new dates for his Thunder Bay shows, at his Facebook page @alfiezappacosta.
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Music
BURNING TO THE SKY
Remembering Four Musicians We Lost in 2020 By Gord Ellis
Neil Peart died January 7
Little Richard died May 9
Helen Reddy died September 29
Edward Van Halen died October 6
There was something quintessentially Canadian about Rush, and the passing of Neil Peart at the age of 67 created a real outpouring of grief and remembrance. It was a bad start to 2020. Nearly every teenage Canadian male in the late 70s and early 80s had Rush written on their school notebook (and the band did have a predominantly male fan base). Songs like “Tom Sawyer” and “The Spirit of the Radio” were air guitar mainstays, but also remarkably literate and musically complex. Peart, the man behind the giant drum kit, was known for his sheer technical brilliance and stamina. He was a musical genius. Yet Peart was also the man whose lyrics set Rush apart. The focus of his lyrical work was decidedly different than the mostly drug, sex, and rock and roll focus of his contemporaries. His themes were more commonly humanitarian, libertarian, universal, and based in science fiction. He was a deep thinker, a writer, a man who loved travel and loved his bicycle. Peart also had personal tragedies in his life that removed him from the public eye for some time. Yet through it all, his dignity remained intact and, ultimately, he returned to recording and the band. Rush ended as a band in 2015 when Peart’s health would no longer allow him to play like he felt he should—which was in a super-human way.
The death of Richard Wayne Penniman, better known as Little Richard, was the death of the father of rock and roll. Little Richard was flamboyant, loud, frenetic, and just generally over the top. His backbeat was unmistakable and he pounded the piano like he was putting out a fire. Richard’s high-pitched wail and near-shouting of lyrics remain the template for many rockers to this day. His hair, his clothes, and his generally ambiguous but upfront sexuality all put him decades ahead of his time. It didn’t matter what he was singing, even if it was nonsensical, because Little Richard sold it. Could there have been a Beatles, Rolling Stones, Prince, or even Bruce Springsteen without Little Richard? Not a chance.
The name Helen Reddy may not be quite as well known in 2020 as it was in the mid 1970s, but that does not diminish her legacy—Reddy was one of the most successful female artists of her time. In the mid 70s, Reddy put 15 songs on the top 40 Billboard Hot 100, including three that went to number one. Some of those hit songs include “Delta Dawn,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and the sultry “Angie Baby.” Yet it was the anthemic “I Am Woman” for which Reddy will forever be remembered. The song, which Reddy co-wrote with Ray Burton, became the rallying cry for the women’s liberation movement and was a number one hit in 1972. The song also won Reddy a Grammy for Best Female Pop vocal. At the Grammy awards ceremony, Reddy famously concluded her acceptance speech by thanking God “because she makes everything possible.” Helen Reddy paved the way for many female artists that came after, and her influence on modern culture cannot be underestimated.
There have been thousands of amazing guitarists during the rock era, but few have left the mark that Eddie Van Halen did. When his band Van Halen exploded onto the scene in the late 70s, everything changed. Van Halen the band was a potent mix of rock pyrotechnics, pop hooks, and a front man that revived oldschool showbiz moves. Yet it was the incredibly innovative, dazzlingly fast, and impeccably performed guitar playing of Eddie Van Halen that set the band apart. His use of tapping on the guitar’s neck—and the whammy bar—became the template for an army of imitators. Only Jimi Hendrix has been more influential in modern rock. Although Van Halen looked like your typical long-haired rock guitarist, his beatific smile as he shredded on his homemade guitar was the antithesis of the brooding rock god. He always looked like he was having the time of his life. When Van Halen died in October after a long fight with cancer, the music world was stunned. Nearly every guitarist in the world paid tribute to him and his legacy that crossed musical idioms. Just listen to how Van Halen turned Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” on its head with his otherworldly guitar pyrotechnics and sense of melody. Hard to imagine that song without that guitar break. Hard to imagine classic rock music without Eddie Van Halen.
100 The Walleye
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102 The Walleye
Music
Combining Forces The Zeldas Release First Recordings
Story by Jamie Varga, Photo by Sarah McPherson
E
ven if you are an avid supporter of the local Thunder Bay music scene, you may not have heard of The Zeldas quite yet. But you will. The dynamic collaboration—which I would call a local supergroup—was just sparking up when the coronavirus draped its dark cloak over everything. Like many other musicians and artists, though, the band members are adapting and hunkering down instead of letting their creative fires be smothered. Combining talents from a number of well-known and longtime local musicians, the organically formed band consists of Mike Luce (Spitula Clark), Aiden and Andrew Domenis (Visions of Doyle), Josh Talakoski (Pedestrian Lifestyle), as well as Robin Moss and Mike Lyngstad (Cold Lake Sun). Luce had recently stepped away from the commitments of being in a band and playing live so he could focus his energy on getting through challenging times but, again, kept that creative spark protected and was inspired to create some new music. As things sometimes go, these songs made their way through a series of coincidentals and what-ifs to find themselves being collaborated on and grown into some great final products just as the world came to a screeching halt in March. “These songs were created by
me in my basement and then everyone pitched in and made them what they are,” he says. “One day we were talking, and I mentioned that if I could hand pick a new band, these would be the guys I’d want, and we just sort of did it. It made sense because we aren’t just friends, but we are also fans of each other’s music.” Despite the hurdles—including two members moving halfway across the country, the entertainment world shutting down due to the pandemic, and the usual trappings of real life—The Zeldas are pushing forward on the final touches of an album they hope comes to life this year after releasing two tracks in September. There is also a credible rumour that a third single is on its way. Perhaps, like their namesake, Zelda Fitzgerald, their shoegaze-esque sounds will be part of our ascent into more positive times, much like the Roaring 20s of the previous millennium. What I find invigorating about this collaboration is it’s a concept that seems to flow through a lot of local projects right now: that it’s not only about support and shared respect, but an almost spiritual creative influence over each other. These are the cracks that let the light shine in. Check out The Zeldas at thezeldas.bandcamp.com/releases #RIGHTdeadly
From left to right: Josh Talakoski, Aiden Domenis, Andrew Domenis, Mike Luce, Robin Moss. Not present: Mike Lyngard
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Music
Kristy Tucker Cellist, TBSO By Kris Ketonen
Born: Winnipeg Instrument: Bassoon Age you started to study music: Piano at age 5, bassoon at 16 How long have you been with TBSO: In her first season What’s on your personal playlist: Ravel String Quartet, Mozart Symphony No. 41 The Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s new principal bassoonist very nearly took a much different career path. “I wanted to be a doctor,” Kristy Tucker says. “And I wanted to get an engineering degree as a backup, in
104 The Walleye
case I didn’t get into med school.” Tucker enrolled in an engineering program, but she found she wasn’t enjoying that particular line of study. “I was still playing bassoon,” she says. “I thought ‘what if I just auditioned on bassoon, and switched to music?’” And that’s exactly what she did, earning her master’s degree from Yale last year. That led to playing with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and then Tucker’s current gig with the TBSO. Tucker has been a musician for a long time— she played piano and flute growing up—but picked up the bassoon
relatively recently, when her high school band needed someone to play the instrument. “I liked that I wasn’t the centre of attention all the time,” Tucker says. “When you play flute, you play a lot of the melody, and I guess your job is to…colour the violins, which always have the melodies.” “I never really liked playing the melody. I liked playing the inner voices,” she continues. “I kind of felt that they were almost more important, because the melody is nothing without the harmony. You don’t necessarily play all the beautiful melodies, but you get to play the
stuff that no one thinks about.” Tucker says she’s enjoying her time with the TBSO, despite the uncertainty surrounding the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s really cool to be, I guess, this year, a professional chamber musician,” she says. “It’s actually really exciting, and the music is more challenging, and more detailed than it would be in an orchestral setting, because it’s just seven or eight people, or four or five people. You can actually talk to each other more than just having instructions […] from a conductor. More hands-on. It’s exciting.”
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OfftheWall
Away Is Mine
Gord Downie
Away Is Mine, the latest release from the one and only Gord Downie, is well on its way to becoming my favourite solo work by the revered frontman of The Tragically Hip. My first reaction to the album, released on October 16 (the day before the third anniversary of his passing), was that the album perfectly represents the many facets of Gord’s creative process. The lyrics are profound poems that are supported with uncomplicated music and working-class rhythms. Released as a two-album set, the second album showcases acoustic versions of the electric tracks, both of which include the collaborative offerings of Josh Finlayson from The Skydiggers. Considering this is the last music Mr. Downie recorded, I am most surprised at how none of it comes across as melancholy or depressed at all—a feat that speaks volumes to the devotion he had to artistic integrity. His previous solo project, Introduce Yerself, had much more of a finality to it and I reviewed it as such, calling it his last work, only to have this revealed as a fantastic surprise during these troubling times. Gord, thanks for the solace… again. - Jamie Varga
REVIEWS
Letter Kite Sessions
Spectrum
Zach Zoya
Arley Cox
Singer, songwriter, multiinstrumentalist, Thunder Bay Blues Festival performer, and International Blues Challenge contender Arley Cox is that ever-so-pleasing artistic confluence of classical training and intuitive talent. Mixing pop, blues, and folk elements and with spot-on backing from The Roosters, her new release, Letter Kite Sessions, does not disappoint. The strumming lilt of the delightfully quirky “How to Save a Girl” is a sure bet for many replays. Organ washes, guitar arpeggios, and a country lean nudge “December Night” into Blue Rodeo territory. “My Street” is a breakup lament that cuts through the lying and deceit of a failed relationship, while “Fragile Man” is a sombre reflection on someone who doesn't know what he's left behind. The album closes with “By My Side,” a paean to love and the simple joys of holding hands and feeling alive—a song of comfort in these times of discomfort.
If you haven’t already heard of Zach Zoya, it’s time to add this amazing Montreal rapper/singer/ songwriter to your playlist. Zoya’s newly released solo EP, Spectrum, is composed of six uniquely different tracks including the previously released singles “In Da Way,” “Slurpee,” and “Le Cap” which are already streaming in heavy rotation. Along with these singles, listeners will also hear a grippingly introspective song entitled “Patience,” which features U.K. artist Angel, a sombre R&B track called “Stick By You,” and a slow pop song, “Pillz.” By titling the EP Spectrum, Zoya has given fans an immediate clue as to what’s inside. From start to finish Spectrum highlights Zoya’s ability to present and move between different genres in a cohesive way. Along with versatility Spectrum also reveals glimpses into Zoya’s original sound and builds great excitement for his first full length album which, hopefully, is soon to come. - Chad Kirvan
- Ken Wright
Return to Greendale Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Canadian music icon Neil Young has reached into his music vault for his latest release. The album Return to Greendale was recorded live in Toronto back in 2003. The concert was billed as a rock opera, complete with actors on stage and a huge screen for visual effects. The songs cover themes like the environment, government corruption, and small-town life in California. For the performance, Young was backed up on stage by members of his band, Crazy Horse. Most of the songs on the two-CD set are electric bluesy rockers. If you’re a fan of Neil Young’s acoustic work, then this album is not for you. The production on the album is great, as Young’s vocals are on top and easy to follow, while his guitar, harmonica, backup band, and accompanying chorus are also well mixed. The audience noise and cheering is kept to a minimum. However, I found it hard to listen to the two discs in one sitting, as there is a sameness to many of the tunes. Some are over 10 minutes long, with lengthy electric guitar solos. Check out the opening song “Falling from Above.” If you’re a big fan of Neil Young’s rockier side then you may want to check out Return to Greendale. - Gerald Graham
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106 The Walleye
Meteors Could Come Down LAL
Meteors Could Come Down sees Toronto-based duo LAL strike a devastatingly stunning balance between simplicity and intricacy. The album’s minimalistic production creates a hushed soundscape that amplifies Rosina Kazi’s vocals to a level of uncanny intimacy. Meanwhile, Nicholas Murray crafts an almost apocalyptic electronic desert of sparse beats and cold synths, interrupted only by rare glimpses of piano on tracks like “The Bitter End” and “Turn Water Into Blood.” These moments of warmth inject Meteors with a vitality that mirrors the themes of hope and resistance that underscore much of LAL’s lyricism. On “No Excuses” and “End of This World Together,” Kazi croons about finding in others the strength needed to persevere against injustice and “the end of this world.” Meteors Could Come Down is a musical testament to the healing power of community in the face of desolation, which, given the upheaval of this past year, is a sentiment that could not come at a better time. - Melanie Larson
Wind of Change
Patrick Radden Keefe
Indian Horse
Stephen S. Campanelli
What if I told you that one of the world’s greatest rock songs was written by the CIA? Join Patrick Keefe on his truth-seeking journey through interviews with ex-CIA members, historians, and musicians to determine whether the song “Wind of Change” was created by the government to help with the West’s battle against communism. In 1990, the Soviet Union was dissolving, and the Berlin Wall had come down—The Scorpions couldn’t have timed it better with the release of their prophetic ballad, which helped generate a massive revolution. Wind of Change exposes the government’s ability to weaponize music as part of a cultural Cold War. You will become intrigued, entertained, and skeptical simultaneously as Keefe reveals deeply rooted power and espionage within the CIA and the music industry. So whistle yourself a tune as you follow the Moskva, down to Gorky Park….
Canadian playwright Dennis Foon adapted Richard Wagamese’s riveting novel about the legacy of residential schools in Canada. The movie screened earlier this fall at one of our outdoor pop-up theatres. Quebec director Stephen S. Campanelli assembled a cast of almost completely unknown (to me) actors, which made them instantly engaging as their characters. Wagamese’s compelling story follows Saul Indian Horse from the age of five through three decades of his life. The three actors who play Saul at ages five, 15, and then at 35 are believably the same person. The movie gives scant attention to young Saul at the most joyful time in his life—as a young boy living with his family in the bush. We then see him forcibly taken away and put in a residential school, where he discovers he has a gift for hockey. Hockey becomes his coping mechanism and the ticket into his future. The rest of the movie explores the pain and struggle to get on with his life, carrying the legacy of the residential school with him. With beautiful cinematography by Yves Bélanger and authentic Canadian locations, Indian Horse is an important and moving revelation of our history.
- Andrea Lysenko
- Michael Sobota
The Christmas Coat: Memories of my Sioux Childhood Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve
The author, Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve, recounts a Christmas from her childhood in South Dakota, starting with a frigid day walking to school in a coat she has outgrown. Virginia’s school is quaint, with long wooden tables that two students share at once, writing with quills. Her community is tightly knit, and her parents have taught her to think of other individual’s needs first before her own. However, she can’t help but love a fur coat her classmate, Evelyn, receives which seems so grand and warm. Virginia wonders if she will obtain a suitable coat too—maybe Santa will bring her one? Winner of the 2011 American Indian Library Association’s youth literature award for picture books, this is a great read for children telling the story of a time long past. - Kristal Vanderleest
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Laurie Abthorpe
Architecture
The Ruttan Block By Laurie Abthorpe Some of the local businesses currently in the Ruttan Block The Ruttan Block on Court Street as seen in modern times
T
he Ruttan family name made its first appearance locally in Prince Arthur’s Landing with the arrival of James Farrand ( J.F.) Ruttan in 1882. Successful in trading real estate in Winnipeg, J.F. Ruttan also recognized a great opportunity here in the Lakehead. After establishing Prince Arthur’s Landing’s first local real estate agency, J.F. Ruttan returned to become the resident member of J.F. Ruttan & Co. in 1883. Beyond investing heavily in the property market, his faith in the growing community also saw him serve both on council, and, later, as mayor of the town now incorporated as Port Arthur. Upon his
death in 1904, his younger brother Robert Anderson (R.A.) Ruttan, who had partnered previously with him in real estate, settled in Port Arthur with his family to take the helm of the amassed real estate and insurance business. In 1908, the company began operating as Ruttan Estates Ltd. with R.A. Ruttan as president, his brother W.S. Ruttan as vice-president, and nephew H.A. Ruttan as secretary-treasurer. During one of Port Arthur’s biggest construction years, with new builds valued over $1 million (roughly $22 million today), R.A. Ruttan had a handsome business block for professional offices,
Laurie Abthorpe
Thunder Bay Archives 9120-63
The Ruttan Block as photographed in 1981
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Laurie Abthorpe The front façade of the Ruttan Block, showing the main entry and columns
Decorative stone trim and accents on the Ruttan Block building’s façade The Ruttan Block as it originally looked
Laurie Abthorpe
block in Thunder Bay’s Waterfront District, featuring retailers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and artists. Laurie Abthorpe is the heritage researcher for the Heritage Advisory Committee, which advises City Council on the conservation of heritage buildings, sites, and resources, and their integration into development. For more information on the city’s heritage resources, visit thunderbay.ca/en/city-hall/heritage-in-thunder-bay.aspx.
Thunder Bay Museum 984.1.612
including those of the Ruttan family, built at the corner of Court Street South and Arthur Street (now Red River Road). The architect long associated with the design of this block has been H. Russell Halton, however, it was actually the Winnipeg office of Darling and Pearson that drew the plans for the 1909 Ruttan Block. Anticipated to be the most upto-date structure in the city, the $50,000, two-storey Ruttan Block was attractively finished on both the 132-foot, east-facing façade, as well as the 66-foot, north-facing frontage. The stone front façade of the ground level, broken into seven bays and divided by pilasters along Court Street, contains the building’s well-defined main entry, featuring fluted ionic columns and capitals. Four bays separated by pilasters are continued along the building’s north face. A wide and detailed stringcourse (decorative line) of stone separates the first and second storey. Yellow pressed brick finishes the second floor, though stone is used quite dominantly for decorative trim such as the cut stone keystones with wings above the windows and the prominent corner quoins. A beautiful decorative stone cornice with dentils wraps around to complete the top of the building’s main façades. The Ruttan Block was not only built to be fireproof; its reinforced concrete structure and foundation was formed to accommodate three additional storeys planned for a later date. Although those additional storeys have never been built, an addition did happen. In December 1912, a building permit was taken out by Ruttan Estates Ltd. for the construction of a two-storey building to house stores, offices, and reading rooms. Architect Carl Wirth designed this $50,000 block that near-seamlessly adjoined the south wall of the existing Ruttan Block. Completed in 1913, the only telltale definition between the two blocks is seen on the second floor front façade where the corner quoins of the original block separate two windows on the upper level. Today, as a listed building on the Thunder Bay Municipal Heritage Register, the Ruttan Block continues its legacy as a thriving business
Architecture
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DecemberEventsGuide
EVENTS GUIDE KEY General Food Art Sports Music
December 3–20, noon–4 pm
December 5
December 6, 10–11:30 am
Willow Springs Creative Centre Shop the 12 days of Christmas at the Willow Springs Holiday Market! On Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 4 pm you will find a wonderful selection of locally made artisan wares and food items. See this month’s Top Five for more info. facebook.com/willowspringsCC
Gillies Community Centre
Hazelwood Lake Conservation Area
Willow Springs Holiday Market
Holiday Craft and Vendor Market
December 4 & 18
Come by for a pre-holidays market at the Gillies Community Centre. The sale will feature all sorts of crafters, and items like sweet treats and fudge, hand-sewn mittens, concrete artwork, rustic farmhouse items, window pane art, spices, candles, handmade jewelry, and more. @GilliesCC on Facebook
Virtual
December 5, 4–7 pm & 8–11 pm
TBSO December Chamber Concerts The TBSO returns with additional chamber concerts, featuring works by Szervánszky, Bacewicz, and Shostakovich, as well as a mix of classical and contemporary holiday favourites and special guests. See this month’s Top Five for more info. tbso.ca/events
Starting December 5, 6–11 pm Shuniah Tour of Lights Shuniah
Residents are being asked to decorate their houses or the end of their driveways (if one can’t see the house from the road) in an effort to brighten up the long winter nights. This will give families and friends an opportunity to tour the lights of Shuniah from Lakeshore Drive to Pass Lake, while enjoying a night out. Please maintain social distancing. @macgregorreccentre on Facebook
December 5 Shop Local Show Urban Abbey
Join local creators at the Urban Abbey from 9 am to 3 pm Saturday, December 5 for a market dedicated to supporting local businesses, crafters, and creators while building a better stronger community. All social distancing rules will be in place, and we’ll make it as safe as possible for you to stop in to shop and grab a coffee at The Habit located inside the Urban Abbey. nstagram.com/shoplocalshow/
RetroGraduate-X2 Art Show Double Gala Art Opening
Definitely Superior Art Gallery Definitely Superior Art Gallery is hosting an exciting multidisciplinary art convergence: the Lakehead University RetroGraduate Exhibition, comprised of selected artwork created by the major studio graduates over the fouryear period of their program, including new works. At the gala opening reception, enjoy art, music, performance, and catered refreshments. Artists will be in attendance. Public health and social gathering restrictions will apply. Pre-register via Eventbrite. Exhibition continues until January 2. See this month’s Top Five for more info. definitelysuperior.com
Until December 6
The Craft Revival The Craft Revival
Happy shoppers will be missed on the streets for this year’s upcoming Craft Revival, but instead, this year’s winter event goes virtual. Craft Revival helps to support local artisans by giving them an opportunity to sell their wares. thecraftrevivaltbay.com
Winter Trail Challenge
The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority and UpRiver Running invite you to a run/walk challenge on the seven kilometers of trails at Hazelwood Lake Conservation Area. This fun, participation-focused, nature learning challenge will get you outdoors and feeling healthy all while getting comfortable with winter running/walking. $35 + HST to register, which is required by 4 pm on December 4. lakeheadca.com/forms/wintertrail-challenge-fundraiser
December 12
Music Bingo
Red Lion Smokehouse
Get your groove on as music bingo combines your favourite tunes with bingo. Each player receives a music bingo card with a mix of song titles and artists. Instead of calling out numbers, the DJ plays the music. Bring your friends, grab a beer, and get ready to win some prizes. $2 per card or three cards for $5 B.Y.O.D. (Bring Your Own Dabber— Xmas although they are available for sale if yours dries up). See this month’s Top Five for more info. redlionsmokehouse.ca
December 12, 9:30 am–5 pm
Pop Up Market
Bill Martin’s Nurseryland
Sprucedale Farms is popping up at Bill Martin’s Nurseryland on December 12. Come down and do some sweet Christmas shopping for Sprucedale’s fudge, chocolate, and sweet treats, as well as Bill Martin’s holiday fare. @sprucedalefarmsgillies on Facebook
Xmas
Cozy up with TV + Internet tbaytel.net/connectedhomepromo
110 The Walleye
Until December 17
Until December 20
Gallery 33’s After School Art Escapes program invites children ages 6–16 to join. Each student will get the time and challenge they need to become more creative and enjoy the projects. All supplies included unless otherwise notified. There will be a maximum of six kids per class. gallery.33.thunderbay@gmail. com
Gear Up For Outdoors The 14th annual Winter Coat drive has been changed up a bit this year. When dropping off donations, please place each coat in a clear plastic bag with the gender and size written on it. Donation bins are located outside on the righthand side of the store for the coats to be placed in. Monetary donations are also being accepted on behalf of Shelter House inside the store. See this month’s Top Five for more info. www.gear-up.com
After School Art Escapes 14th Annual Gear Up Coat Drive Gallery 33
December 18
Carol-oke
Red Lion Smokehouse
Calling all singers! It’s the most wonderful time of the year when Christmas and karaoke meet to create Carol-oke! Come and show your skills and have fun. There’s no cover, it’s for those 19+, and all singers are welcome. Safety protocols are in place and approved by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. Don’t forget to bring your mask. Seating is limited so book your table today. redlionsmokehouse.ca
December 20, 6 pm
Martin Blanchet Jazz Quintet Concert Online
The Martin Blanchet Jazz Quintet is teaming up with the Club culturel francophone de Thunder Bay for a special jazzy Christmas concert. You can take in the music online, starting at 6 pm, through the CCF’s Facebook and YouTube platforms. @ccftbay on Facebook
December 20, 8 pm
Megan Nadin Facebook Takeover Online
In the wake of her new EP and a special holiday single—a recording of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,”—Thunder Bay’s Megan Nadin will perform a virtual show on December 20 that will be livestreamed on The Walleye’s Facebook page. For updated information closer to show time, head to thewalleye.ca or The Walleye’s Facebook page. @TheWalleye on Facebook
December 23
Quiz Night
Red Lion Smokehouse
The last quiz night of 2020, Red Lion Smokehouse invites people to test their knowledge. Teams of up to six players can participate. Entry is $2 per person and there’s a minimum spend of $20 per person. Please bring your own pen, and booking ahead of time is recommended. redlionsmokehouse.ca
Until December 31
Wabooz/Rabbit
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
Waabooz/Rabbit takes a deeper look at the rabbit, and how it has been seen, spoken of, used, and reproduced through art and craft. All of the rabbits in this exhibition have received some kind of human attention. theag.ca
Until January 3
Maud Lewis
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
See the work of beloved folk artist, Maud Lewis (1903–1970), who captured the hearts of many with her dazzling depictions of rural Nova Scotia. Her paintings describe a way of life in the Maritimes that was rapidly changing. Her works are thus both documentary and deeply nostalgic. theag.ca
LU RADIO’S MONTHLY TOP December Show Spotlight:
30
1 METZ* Atlas Vending Sub Pop
Music Check out our weekly charts online at luradio.ca and tune in to the Top 20 Countdown Mondays from 7-9 am. Keep it locked on 102.7 FM, online streaming at luradio.ca.
9 Deftones Ohms Warner
16 Dead Soft* Baby Blue Arts & Crafts
10 The Fearless Flyers Tailwinds Vulf
17 Population II* À la Ô Terre Castle Face
25 The Pack A.D.* Live! Vol.1 Fontana North
18 The OBGMs* The Ends Black Box 19 Colter Wall* Western Swing & Waltzes and Other Punchy Songs Thirty Tigers
2 Matt Mays* Dog City Sonic
Vitamin M(etal) Hosted by Axel Neumann Fridays at 9 pm
Hello TBay. My name is Axel Neumann (a.k.a. The Pharmacist), and I host a show on LU Radio called Vitamin M(etal). Due to the unexpected chaos in the world, I had to put the show on hold last spring… fortunately, I’m back! Starting November 20, I’m on the air Fridays from 9–10 pm bringing Thunder Bay the heaviest radio show of the last decade. Every week I do my best to find something new, sharing anything and everything from post-grunge era rock to the heaviest breakdowns and riffs that have ever played on Thunder Bay’s airwaves. After all, the best way to stay positive through these rough times is with some of that sweet, sweet Vitamin M. Song of the Moment: “Napalm Dreams” by Fit for an Autopsy
3 Death Valley Girls Under The Spell Of Suicide Squeeze
11 Laura Jane Grace Stay Alive Polyvinyl
4 The Archaeas The Archaeas Goner
12 Bright Eyes Down In The Weeds, Where The World Once Was Dead Oceans
5 SUUNS* Fiction EP Secret City
7 Peach Kelli Pop* Lucky Star Lauren 8 IDLES Ultra Mono Partisan
15 New Orleans High Society Self-titled 1718
27 Death Wheelers* Divine Filth RidingEasy 28 Mastodon Medium Rarities Reprise 29 William Chernoff* Aim To Stay Self-Released
13 Bahamas* Sad Hunk Barchords 14 PUP* This Place Sucks Ass (EP) Little Dipper
6 Nature Walk King of Wands Self-Released
20 Fleet Foxes Shore ANTI-
26 L.A. Witch Play With Fire Suicide Squeeze
21 Osees Protean Threat Castle Face
30 The Flaming Lips American Head Warner
22 Frankie and the Witch Fingers Monsters Eating People Eating Greenway 23 Yellow Days A Day in a Yellow Beat RCA 24 The Budos Band Long in the Tooth Daptone
* Indicates Canadian artist. Chart ranking reflects airplay during the week ending 24-Nov2020.
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THUNDER BAY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Season 59.5
December 3 & 4
Paul Haas Music Director
Marvels from Eastern Europe Darkness and Light
December 17, 18 & 19 Snow Blowers Mistlebows
Limited tickets available so get yours before they’re gone at tbso.ca/events
KEEP WARM
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Your Peace of mind advocates.
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112 The Walleye
After Hours Claims P: 1.844.762.2287
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Health
Moderation in the Time of COVID-19 By Caitlund Davidson, Health Promotion and Communications Planner, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre While we may want some extra holiday cheer, drinking in moderation is especially important this holiday season
T
he holiday season is often a time for gathering with co-workers, friends, and family to celebrate and enjoy delicious food and, often, alcoholic beverages. With many social events occurring during this time, we are reminded to drink responsibly. “Of course we want to celebrate and toast the season, but it feels different this year,” says Sheena Albanese, a health promotion planner at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. “More than before, people may be drinking due to stress, anxiety, and a lack of structure in their lives. However, drinking to take the edge off of boredom or stress doesn’t really work and can make things worse.” “It’s better to focus on self-care, check in with friends and try to bring positive routines back into your life, especially if you are home a lot,” Albanese continues. “Maybe this is the year to reinvent good cheer; whether it’s cooking, getting outside, or introducing new holiday traditions that don’t leave you with a hangover.” While we may want some extra holiday cheer, drinking in moderation is especially important
during a pandemic and flu season. According to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, alcohol consumption can weaken the body’s immune system and reduce its ability to fight off illnesses. Therefore, limiting consumption can help protect your health. This month, take time to think before you drink. If you choose to drink alcohol, consume responsibly. In Canada, one standard drink equals a 12-ounce bottle of beer, a five-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of hard liquor. On special occasions, Canada’s LowRisk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines recommend drinking no more than four drinks for men while staying within the 15-drink weekly limit, and no more than three drinks for women while staying within the 10-drink weekly limit. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, your alcoholic drink limit should be zero. Less is best to reduce the risk of short- and long-term harms, like injuries and chronic diseases. To stay safe and healthy this holiday season, follow these tips for safe alcohol consumption: • Set limits for yourself and stick to them.
•
Drink slowly. Have no more than two drinks in three hours.
•
For every drink of alcohol, have one non-alcoholic drink, such as water.
•
Don’t drink more than you did before the pandemic.
•
Eat before and while you are drinking.
•
Consider your age, body weight, and health concerns that might suggest lower alcohol limits.
•
Plan ahead. Do not drive after drinking.
•
If you are concerned about your drinking, ask for help. “The best thing we can do is check in with ourselves,” says Albanese. “Now is actually a good time to re-evaluate things and try new ways to celebrate and stay connected.”
For more information on how to reduce your drinking, try using the free app, Saying When, offered by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. You can also go to tbdhu. com/alcoholcannabis to find helpful tips and resources related to alcohol and COVID-19.
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Health
Zoom or Bust?
Navigating the Strange World We Live In By Betty Carpick
I
f being one of 200 million people on Zoom doesn’t freak you out a little bit, knowing that science fiction has speculated video-enriched communication since the 1880s just might. From Thomas Edison’s telephonoscope, Jules Verne’s phonotelephote, and Hugo Gernsback’s telephot to the first film depiction in Fritz Lang’s Metropolis in 1927 and the videophone in The Jetsons in the 1960s, conferencing technology has galumphed on. When we were blindsided by the coronavirus pandemic, “falling down the rabbit hole” and the phrase’s original meaning from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland of “entering a strange and absurd alternate universe” seemed apt. The glossary of the pandemic isn’t much fun, but there we were, “pivoting” to Zoom. On the market since 2013, Zoom quickly became the fastest-growing video conferencing
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service in the world and is now worth more than $100 billion. The strengths of Zoom’s basic design—the simplicity of use, screen sharing capability, call quality, and price point—seem straightforward. But if you don’t have digital literacy, reliable access to a device with a built-in camera, or highspeed internet, the chasm of the digital divide is profound. Negotiating the new digital space means planning ahead for every encounter and reorienting our communicative actions and behaviour within a murky collective order. Aside from learning the technicalities, such as mastering the “Mute” and “Video” buttons, there are other considerations—gauging emotions, interpreting body language, reading the nuances of new verbal and non-verbal cues, decoding many people at once, seeing yourself on the screen, exaggerated emoting, finessing home environments,
Zoom grooming, accounting for unpredictability, etc., etc. All this multi-tasking is hard on the brain, especially when the cloud-based tool is a juxtaposition between a high school yearbook, a séance, and The Blair Witch Project. No wonder Zoom fatigue is symptomatic of this unofficial social experiment. Of course, there are silver linings. We’re able to reach out to the world to maintain long-distance relationships, make adaptations to communal rituals, and connect for work, learning, and leisure. Dig around on Zoom’s website
and you’ll find the cheery promise, “We deliver happiness.” Steady your croquet mallets, Zoom. What’s the future for strengthening and preserving our intellectual spiritual, cultural, and social legacies for humanity? How can we retain authenticity and find happiness while living through screens in a technological melting pot? The Dormouse in “White Rabbit,” Grace Slick’s psychedelic rock tune said, “Feed your head, feed your head.” But now, more than ever, it's important to remember to also feed your heart.
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December Entrepreneur(s) of the Month
Hailey & Bree Hollinsworth Ungalli Clothing Co.
In 2019, Hailey and Bree opened a downtown location and local collective. With the overwhelming support from the local community, the dynamic duo wanted to give back. In the Ungalli Collective retail store, you will not only find Ungalli clothing but also products from over 40 other local entrepreneurs!
Q & A with Hailey and Bree Q: What drew you to entrepreneurship?
Meet Hailey and Bree Hollinsworth, sisters and owners of Ungalli Clothing Co. and Ungalli Collective. Immersed in the world of entrepreneurship from a young age, Hailey and Bree’s success in owning a business has come, as some would say, naturally. Both of their parents are local entrepreneurs and when the idea to start a business came about, the two quickly jumped at the opportunity. Ungalli Clothing Co. was officially established in 2013 and the start-up T-shirt company quickly saw the need for a Canadian supplier and manufacturer of sustainable clothing. Ungalli produces clothing for its own brand, but also partners with like-minded businesses and organizations to create customized merchandise. With each shirt saving 41 days of drinking water and seven hours of light bulb energy compared to traditionally manufactured T-shirts, the impact companies can make by choosing sustainable Ungalli clothing for their merchandise is significant.
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A: Seeing our parents have the freedom of working for themselves while building something they believed in (both our parents are entrepreneurs, it's in our DNA!) Being able to build something that we love, being able to help others have a positive impact on the world, and inspiring others to challenge the status quo. At a young age we both worked for a uniform manufacturing company and saw how poorly managed it was and how devastating the industry was to the environment and people. We wanted to do it better! Seeing the detrimental flaws of the industry firsthand made us realize there is something we can do to make a difference and educate people about these issues. Being able to leave our mark on the world, and hopefully leave a legacy for our children one day. Q: What is your most memorable moment being an entrepreneur? A: This is a tough one! There are a few. The support we received from friends, family, and our community when we started up is a feeling we will never forget! Shifting 95% of our production over to face masks in a matter of weeks. If anything, 2020 has demonstrated how important it is to be resilient and adaptable as an entrepreneur. Partnering with Absolut
Vodka on a major marketing campaign was insane! Our T-shirts were sold with their bottles of vodka in LCBOs across Ontario for the holiday season in 2019. It really brought our custom merchandise program to a new level. Raising $60,000 on Kickstarter to produce joggers made from recycled plastic. Speaking at an environmental conference in Quebec with David Suzuki about the flaws in the fashion industry. We spoke to a crowd of thousands right before him. It was absolutely terrifying! Opening a retail store downtown Thunder Bay and getting to work with all the other entrepreneurs whose products we carry at the store. It's become such a community and we are so lucky to have them all. Winning a top 30 under 30 award from Corporate Knights for sustainability leadership in Canada. Receiving our first order for 20,000 custom Ungalli t-shirts! That was a big day. Q: Who was your biggest inspiration/ mentor? A: All of the people we love inspire us in one way or another and drive us to do the things we do. Of course, the main ones that stick out are our parents and each other. Q: If you could go back in time, what piece of advice would you give yourself? A: Just because you're young and inexperienced doesn’t mean you can’t lead the way towards change. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; in fact ask ALL the questions. Everything takes three times longer than you would like it to. Get started early. Trust your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, it isn’t right.
Green
A Green Holiday Season Tips on Maintaining Sense of Home This Year
By Erin Moir, Program Coordinator, EcoSuperior Environmental Programs
‘T
is the season of renewal, rest, and reflection—in nature, the cosmos, and in us. For us, this can include renewal and reflection in our relationships, habits, and thinking. As the busy holiday season greets us, remember to make time to honour this beautiful space we call home. Enjoy a crisp walk with the forest, dip a hand into icy Lake Superior, and warmly greet a neighbour. Keeping our community connected (and our community is multi-species) throughout 2020 and beyond builds resilience, strength, and sustainability. EcoSuperior’s mission of building a healthy future for people and the planet prompts us to consider what a healthy future looks like during the holiday season and throughout the year. Maybe you commit to using less single-use plastic, purchase a composter to divert waste from our landfill, or maybe it is as simple as shopping and supporting local. When you support a local business, this cuts down on shipping and our collective carbon footprint, plus, the money stays in our city, and circles back through the local economy—a
win-win for everyone. This December, EcoSuperior is excited to offer new opportunities to honour our home: • Gather loved ones, colleagues, or close friends and consider booking a guided forest therapy walk. Forest therapy, or forest bathing as it is also known, is a practice of deep nature connection through mindful practices that elevate our senses and bring together the power of nature and nurture. •
•
Support EcoSuperior by purchasing our “Taste of Home” festive fundraiser gift pack in our online store, which includes a locally made “Home” mug by Sunshine Pottery, Boreal Forest teas harvested from our region, two organic cotton reusable tea bags, and a $10 EcoSuperior gift card. Each item in this gift arrangement was hand-picked to support local entrepreneurs, to be plastic-free, and to encourage greater connection to place.
like beeswax wraps, decrease our use of single use plastics and help divert waste from going to the landfill or ending up in our waterways. To participate, simply register at ecosuperior.org, and pick up your workshop kit at EcoSuperior’s curbside pickup Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10 am and 2 pm. (We also sell Three Huggers’ beeswax food wraps on our online store!)
products for loved ones; but make sure your gift-wrapping practices do the same. Stay tuned to EcoSuperior’s social media and website as the holiday season approaches for resources and fun tips on ways to reduce your waste this year. Quick demo videos will be available to show you how to make your own reusable, recyclable, and re-thinkable gift wrapping this season.
•
Check out our online store for other ideas. For instance, reduce your single-use habits and purchase a utensil kit complete with fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, straw and cleaner, in a convenient carrying case, ready to take anywhere.
However you choose to celebrate home this coming season, take time to offer gratitude, embrace the new year with intention, and help us continue to build a healthy future for people and the planet.
•
Did you know that gift wrap is not recyclable? It is one thing to have eco-friendly gift giving practices, such as gifting experiences instead of things, gifting consumables or yummy treats, or getting new low-waste
Maybe you are crafty and want a more hands-on project? EcoSuperior is also offering an online beeswax wrap workshop on December 8. Reusable items,
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TheWall
Half-Full, Half-Empty
Living Online in the Age of COVID-19 Story and photo by Marlene Wandel
S
nowflakes are drifting past the window, trying to say winter is here. Finlanders say winter only comes when the lilacs drop their leaves; either way, patio season is probably over, even for us hardy northerners. Patios and beautiful weather made this COVID summer tolerable—Thunder Bay got the chance to shine, finally breaking down some of the barriers that kept diners from spilling out onto the streets. But these fluffy white harbingers of doom are a sure sign we are all about to be herded back inside, with COVID leaning on the door to keep us in our respective homes, connected to each other only by our internet umbilicus. Socially and professionally, we are more and more living online. It’s hard to come up with a convincing argument that things are
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better this way—my usual glasshalf-full kind of stance has been downgraded to a solid meh. I appreciate that we have all this technology, but it is starting to feel a little oppressive. The screen time argument in every house has gone out the window: we can’t afford to threaten to throw the devices out the literal window anymore, because the kids need them for school, and sports team meetings, and to connect with friends as dropping temperatures and social gathering limits lurk on the horizon again. It is helpful to have the option to school kids remotely—online school is likely better than no school—but it seems to reinforce the increasingly strongly held belief that life is conducted via a touch screen, with headphones on. In this small city, commuting
has never been a big part of the conversation, except the inexplicably terrible timing of the traffic lights. Strangely, now we talk about the commute in nostalgic terms. My spouse lamented in the spring that he missed riding up the Dufferin Street hill every day (a sure sign working from home was affecting his cognition). The corollary of not having to ever go to work, means never getting to leave work, either. Productivity has not suffered with working from home; as it turns out, work is work, whether we are shackled to the computer in an office or
at the dining room table. It’s not all bad. The kitchen has all the snacks and the coffee is endless, but I miss the good old days of getting downtown to get coffee and running into five people on the way. Browsing digitally at the library is not the same as browsing the stacks, but at least now we can shop online and still shop local. The coffee cups scattered around the house might be half empty, but they are plentiful, and that, for now, will have to be good enough.
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Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, the team at Cheadles is wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.
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December Horoscopes Aries
(March 21–April 19) There may be some new people around your holiday table this year, Aries! You’ve spent some time cultivating a quality inner circle, and now your dreams of home and hearth are coming true. You have had a magnificent year. Yes, there were some tough times, but you have upheld the spirit of the holidays all year long and have come through a winner. Your Secret Santa is not so secret anymore. Time to introduce your new person to the world. 2021 holds the key to unlock your dreams.
Taurus
(April 20–May 20): The new moon on the 14th finds you battling some seasonal traffic and crowds. You are determined to carry on the tradition of the office party, and will do whatever it takes to make it work safely. Relax and enjoy the fruits of your labour. You may not realize how much others appreciate your hard work—not just this month, but all year long. Take a bow, Bull! 2021 will be a year full of changes for you—perhaps even a new member of the family.
Gemini
(May 21–June 20): No one rocks an ugly Christmas sweater like you do, Gemini. You’re always a fan of the holiday season, and this year is no different. In fact, you got started a little early, didn’t you? You have a long list of folks that you like to give to, although this year you may have to be a little creative with the visiting, and perhaps you can’t give as many hugs as you like. Nip into the eggnog and take a little time to breathe. 2021 will focus on love!
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By Sunny Disposish
Cancer
( June 21–July 22): A wee bit of Mars in your sign at the beginning of the month has you getting things done in what appears to be one fell swoop. Cancers may find themselves doing a bit of a shopping spree online, and decorating the house (inside and out!) over the course of an extremely exhausting weekend. Deal with some grinch-like family members in your usual calm and kind manner. This month can be stressful for some. There’s nothing wrong with adding a bit of spirits to the holiday punch. Next year finds you living the dream!
Leo
( July 23–August 22): Winter solstice on the 21st is a welcome day in your calendar, Lion. Take some time out with the furry friends in the back 40 and reflect. It’s been an interesting year, hasn’t it? You may find yourself in the kitchen doing some holiday baking. Your generous nature is to give, and those close to you love to receive your thoughtful gifts. No one can pick out a spot-on gift quite like a Leo. You might find some special gifts under the tree with your name on them! Next year, all you have to do is name it and then you’ll claim it.
Virgo
(August 23–Sept 22): You—or someone very close to you—is behaving in a grinchlike manner. And guess what? That is okay. Rejoice in the season by counting your blessings. The approaching full moon amplifies all the feels, and it’s okay to be a little down. Curl up with some favourite seasonal movies on a wintry day and just settle in. Nibble on some special baking and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying some sugar-plum dreams! 2021 has you and those around you feeling back like their old selves in the first few months.
Libra
(September 23–October 22): The full moon on the 29th sees our normally balanced Libras getting all ramped up! You are bound and determined to see this year right out the door and then some. Fling your festive self into the fun of the best New Year’s Eve celebration yet. Don’t squander on the champagne and don’t cheap out on the fireworks. You may make new traditions that you will re-visit in the coming years. Go forth and conquer! 2021 will be your best year yet. Happy New Year!
Scorpio
(October 23–November 21): Normally on the serious and intense side, Scorpios may find themselves involved in some snowy silliness with some snowsuited small fry. Whether it be building a snowman, or having a massive snowball fight (try to let the young’uns win for once), let your inner child come out while the smalls delight in your presence. A roaring fire and hanging stockings with care is extra meaningful this year. There’s no reason not to catch up with old pals, as everyone knows about Zoom by now. (Cameras on are optional).
Sagittarius
(November 22–December 21): Happy birthday to all the awesome Archers! This is typically an indulgent month for the Centaurs. Have you been naughty or nice this year, Sag? Some might say a little of both. It’s safe to say that this holiday season will be like no other. This is where you can really tap into your positive and optimistic attributes. There’s no reason why you can’t have everything you want! Next year, plan on being better than ever!
Capricorn
(December 22–January 19) There may be some travel home for Capricorns and Capricorn family this year. Take extra time to arrive in a safe manner. Traditional Caps may feel out of sorts and lament the loss of the mall Santa—heck, even the mall feels different this year. Being a last-minute Larry is necessary this year, but sometimes the best plans are impromptu ones with your circle. Be open to receiving this year, Goat friends, because sometimes you give too much, due to your generous nature. The three wise men make a visit. Listen to what they have to say. Be prepared for change in 2021.
Aquarius
( January 20–February 18): Time to take a deep dive, Aquarius (it may help if you are noshing on some special fruitcake). Trust in the miracles that show up disguised as everyday events. Sometimes it takes a while before you even realize what is going on. Transformation and healing figure prominently this month, and the planetary alignment is such that you will be one of the signs most affected. Sip on a candy cane martini while making a snow angel. Next year sees you facing all your challenges head on. Go forth and conquer!
Pisces
(February 19-March 20): Ever the traditionalist, Pisces takes great joy in decorating the tree and, yep, still handwriting all those Christmas cards. It’s okay to still be involved in caroling with your annual group—maintain social distancing and just sing louder! You may be greeting a special someone at the airport this month and your smiles will be seen through your masks, no doubt about it. Pisces keep mum about how much they actually give back, but Santa knows and loves you all the more for it. You’re not afraid to say “Merry Christmas” to anybody and everybody. Next year brings hope to all. Merry Christmas!
TheBeat
Moonlight on Maples By Sue Blott Moonlight shimmies down frosted branches. Maples glow tonight.
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