August 2023 by The Walleye Magazine

FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 14 No. 8 MUSIC AUGUST FOOD 2023 CULTURE thewalleye.ca

The Walleye Trail Guide 16 Local Routes We Love

Five Alarm Funk

Stitching from the Heart

The Marvellous Wonderettes

Rockin’ Recovery Returns

Behind every multiplayer clash We’re growing 5G across our city and region! Follow along the 5G Journey.

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Contents Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Interim Editor Matt Prokopchuk Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Bonnie Schiedel Editorial Assistants Emily Turner, Sidney Ulakovic Marketing & Sales Manager Meagan Griffin sales@thewalleye.ca Photographers Jack Barten Anna Buske Kevin Dempsey Damien Gilbert Ryan Hill Chad Kirvan Dave Koski Shannon Lepere Marty Mascarin Darren McChristie Sarah McPherson Lois Nuttall Laura Paxton Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D. Dave Koski, R.G.D. production@thewalleye.ca Ad Designers Dave Koski 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. Copyright © 2023 by Superior Outdoors Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.

32 88 Five Alarm Funk

Where can I find The Walleye? thewalleye.ca/wherecan-i-find-the-walleye/ Ad Deadline for our September Issue August 17th

Playing with Paper

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Pizza with a Purpose

118

Superior Outdoors Inc. 242 - 1100 Memorial Avenue Thunder Bay, ON P7B 4A3 Telephone (807) 344-3366 Fax (807) 623-5122 E-mail: info@thewalleye.ca

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A Dance on a Tuesday

TheTOPFive

FEATURES 9 The Walleye Trail Guide 10 Trail Features & Guide 18 Local Trail Areas: Then and Now 20 When You Step from the Path 21 New Options for Northwestern Ontario Hikers FOOD 22 THE GRINNING BELLY 23 DRINK OF THE MONTH 24 OFF THE MENU 26 SUPERIOR SIP 27 Welcome Back to Our House 28 The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pints 30 Pizza with a Purpose FILM&THEATRE 32 THE SECOND MOST PLEASURABLE THING WE DO IN THE DARK. A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES 34 The Marvellous Wonderettes 36 Mean Girls 37 Filming in Lappe THE ARTS 38 Playing with Paper 40 Labour of Love 41 FROM THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION 42 Thirty-five Years Running 44 Stitching from the Heart 46 A THOUSAND WORDS OUTDOOR 48 Bananas for Bicycles

Mean Girls

CITYSCENE 50 WALL SPACE: Superior Sailmakers 52 The Canadian Lakehead Exhibition’s Special Needs Day 53 Take it in Strides Suicide Prevention Run 54 STUFF WE LIKE 57 CANNABIS CORNER 58 GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY

62 65 67 68 70 73 74 76

COUNTRY MARKET Time to Celebrate Growth Spurt SECOND CHANCES EYE TO EYE: With Guy Walter THIS IS THUNDER BAY BRIDGING THE PAST Rockin’ Recovery Returns Batter Up!

MUSIC 78 A Whirlwind Year 80 A Magical Musical Time 83 A Dance on a Tuesday 84 The Sound of Steel 86 BURNING TO THE SKY 88 Five Alarm Funk 90 Rocking City Road 93 The Sky’s the Limit 94 A Modern Spin on Choral Music 96

OFF THE WALL REVIEWS

ARCHITECTURE 98 Fort William Historical Park Visitor Centre 100 Tbaytel August EVENTS GUIDE 102 MUSIC GUIDE 103 LU RADIO'S MONTHLY TOP 30 TATTOOED YOU 104 Live Fast, Eat Trash! GREEN 106 Food Sustainability 107 Where Do We Go From Here? 108 Pack It In, Pack It Out 111 LET'S GET GROWING HEALTH 112 Quitting Is Not Always a Bad Thing THE WALL 114 What Can’t We Afford to Lose? 116 AUGUST HOROSCOPES 117 THE BEAT 118 THE EYE

The Walleye

Emily Turner

From Our Instagram Feed

can’t specifically remember when I really caught the walking bug. I know I’ve been doing it all my life, right from my pre-school days when my mom and I would walk almost daily, in the nice-weather months, to the downtown north core (anyone else remember the restaurant in the upstairs of Eaton’s? Guess I dated myself there), and I was always fortunate enough to be able to walk to school right up until I graduated high school. I suppose it’s always been there, and nowadays, there are few things I’d rather do outdoors than get on a good pair of shoes, load up some music, and go for a long walk, wherever I may feel like roaming. Our cover story is all about our favourite places to hike and walk in and around Thunder Bay, where several of our writers give you the lowdown on what to expect when visiting these spots. We’ve also included a photographic look at how some of them have changed over the decades. Also in our cover story, Justin Allec speaks with Lakehead Search and Rescue about what to do and what not to do when going for a hike, and Kris Ketonen has the story about the Northwestern Ontario Recreational

Trails Association and their plans to expand hiking in the region. Staying with the theme of our cover story, Erin Moir of EcoSuperior gives some advice for how not to disturb the places we traverse, Michael Sobota looks at four movies that focus on a long journey, and the Thunder Bay Public Library’s Ryan Gracey reviews a great book by noted travel journalist Sarah Baxter that examines some of the world’s best hikes. Elsewhere in our August issue, new editorial assistant Sidney Ulakovic has the latest on musician Sara Kae, her new single, and what she’s looking forward to in the future, Pat Forrest has the story of the Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association and their plans to celebrate a matsuri in Thunder Bay for the first time, and Amy Sellors speaks with Ana Paula Brasil, a textile artist originally from Brazil, who now calls the Lakehead home. So wherever you may roam this summer, we hope that this issue points you in a direction you’ve never travelled before, or provides some comfort along the way. -Matt Prokopchuk

The Walleye would like to thank the following people and organizations for their help with information that was used in our trail guides: Alexander Jackson for his valuable input on trail accessibility; Ryne Gilliam and the staff at the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority; the Thunder Bay Field Naturalists; Werner Schwar of the City of Thunder Bay; Michael deJong, Andrew Turnbull, and the staff at the Thunder Bay Museum; Erika Kromm and Cheryl Jaspers from the Municipality of Neebing; and Gord Ellis.

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Featured Contributor

Sidney Ulakovic

Kay Lee

Take a Hike!

Sidney was born and raised in Thunder Bay, where she currently resides. She lived in Toronto briefly while studying creative and professional writing at York University, but couldn’t resist the mysterious pull that Thunder Bay seems to have on many of its expats. Sidney is excited to cover food and drink, music, and events happening around town. In her spare time, she enjoys writing poetry and short stories. When she’s not out with friends trying the newest bars and restaurants, you can find her curled up in a blanket at home with a good book and her puppy Miso. In this issue, read her articles about La Casa Nostra on page 27, artist Erin Stewart on page 38, the Painted Turtle Art Shop on page 40, Crossroad Music’s outdoor concert series on page 90, and Sara Kae’s new single on page 93.

On the Cover

Jumping for joy on the Kama Cliffs Photo by Darren McChristie

SAIL BETWEEN BORDERS AFFORDABLY WITH ROAMAWAY DAILYPASS

Travel season is here! Don’t worry about roaming, use your phone just like you’re in Canada with Tbaytel’s RoamAway DailyPass from TELECO. Plus, enjoy the best mobility coverage in Northwestern Ontario with Tbaytel’s affordable 5G+ Unlimited Data Plans starting at just $75/mo + tax.

ROAMAWAY DAILYPASS

10 16

/DAY in the U.S.

/DAY in select countries

601 Central Avenue 345-2900 • www.teleco.ca Plans, pricing and services are subject to change at the discretion of Tbaytel. DailyPass fee is only charged on days where you are roaming and is triggered when you use your device to make any call or text, or access data. DailyPass may be used for as many days within your bill cycle as you like and you will be charged the applicable daily rate for each of those days. Should you exceed the data or minutes included in your monthly plan, you will be charged the domestic overage rate applicable to your monthly plan, in addition to the DailyPass fee. DailyPass is applicable only while roaming in the U.S. (including U.S. Virgin Islands) or International Zone 2, 3, and 4. For more details visit tbaytel.net/mobility

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“Experiential learning connects

me to our community”

You belong here 6

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TheTopFive

Women’s Baseball 1 WBSC World Cup August 8–13

Baseball Central & Port Arthur Stadium

Lizzie Hattrich-Team USA

Take me out to the ball game—for a very special tournament! The Thunder Bay International Baseball Association will present the WBSC (World Baseball Softball Confederation) Women’s Baseball World Cup Group A stage between August 8 and 13. For five days, Canada, USA, Mexico, Australia, Korea, and Hong Kong-China will compete for the chance to participate in the Women’s Baseball World Cup final stage, which will also be held in Thunder Bay next year. The first two days of the tournament will be at Baseball Central, while the final three days will be at Port Arthur Stadium (August 13 is reserved for a rain day if need be). You can catch the Canadian team playing each night at 7:30 pm. Tickets will be sold at the door, and are $25 for a day pass (three games per day), $15 for one game, and $10 per game for seniors and children 12 and under. wbsc.org

Canadian

2 Lakehead Exhibition

Nights in 3 Movie the Park

August 9–13

August 10, 17, & 24

CLE Fair Grounds The largest fair in Northwestern Ontario returns to Thunder Bay from August 9 to 13. For five days, the CLE grounds will come alive with food, music, festivities, and fun. As usual, visitors to the CLE can enjoy an array of amusement park rides, as well as various food, vendor, and entertainment booths. This year’s fair also includes nightly performances from Canadian and local rock bands, including British Columbia’s 54-40 and Thunder Bay’s The Lockyer Boys. With children’s entertainment and activities, hypnotists, face painting, clowns, and an agricultural exhibition, there is truly something for everyone at the CLE. Tickets are available at both local Canadian Tire locations and regionally at the Wellington Inn in Sioux Lookout, Northern Computers in Terrace Bay, and Canadian Tire in Marathon, and can be purchased at the gate throughout the fair. cle.on.ca

Live From the Rock Folk Festival

City Parks

The City of Thunder Bay is bringing the big screen outside, as Movie Nights in the Park is back for another season! Held in various parks throughout the city, Movie Nights in the Park is a series of free, family-friendly outdoor film screenings. Films will begin at dusk, and will be held on August 10 at Vickers Park, on August 17 at Boulevard Lake, and on August 24 at Vickers Park once more. Don’t forget to bring snacks, beverages, lawn chairs, blankets, and warmer clothes in case the temperature cools down at night. Stay tuned for movie titles to be announced, plus a bonus indoor matinee at the 55+ Centre on Sunday, October 15. thunderbay.ca/movienights

5 Anishinaabe Keeshigun

August 11–13

August 19 & 20

“Let it Strike a Chord in You” is the motto for this year’s Live From the Rock Folk Festival, Red Rock’s annual music and arts festival. Jam-packed with world-class folk music, workshop-style performances, family games and activities, artisans, yoga, local food vendors, and more, this weekend has become an annual tradition for many families across Northwestern Ontario and beyond. Advance weekend passes are $90 for adults (19–64), $80 for seniors (65+) and youth (13–18), $30 for children (5–12), and free for children under 4. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at Fireweed Crafts (Thunder Bay), Dampier’s Offshore Variety (Red Rock), and the Rexall Pharmacy (Nipigon). Bonus: camping is available in Pull-a-Log park, so you don’t miss out on any of the action. livefromtherockfolkfestival.com

Past, present, and future: celebrate Anishinaabe culture, tradition, language, and technology at Anishinaabe Keeshigun at Fort William Historical Park on August 19 and 20. A celebration of Indigenous culture, this weekend will be packed with educational and cultural activities; there will be opportunities to try traditional foods, sports, and hands-on activities, while artisans demonstrate their skills. Visitors will have opportunities to watch and join the dancers in the arbour while the drum groups perform. There are even contests throughout the weekend with prizes. The event runs 10 am–8 pm on August 19 and 10 am–5 pm on August 20; Grand Entry will happen at 1 pm Saturday and Sunday, with a second Grand Entry at 6 pm Saturday. The event is free to attend, and campsites are available at the Fort William Historical Park. fwhp.ca

Fort William Historical Park Sarah McPherson

Pull-a-Log Park, Red Rock

The The Walleye Walleye

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CoverStory

The Walleye Trail Guide

16 Local Routes We Love

“O

LRCA Staff

f all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt,” said renowned 19th-century conservationist and naturalist John Muir. Here in Thunder Bay and the surrounding area, we are truly lucky to have an excellent variety of paths— dirt, gravel, and otherwise—so we can explore our beautiful landscapes that calm the mind and nourish the senses. In this issue of The Walleye, take a closer look at 16 of the local trails we love. We hope you’re inspired to discover a new go-to or to revisit an old favourite…or all 16! - Bonnie Schiedel

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Dog Lake

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8 ")

Shebandowan Lake

Silver Falls

Provincial Park Size: 3,260 ha 5 km of hiking trails Cascading waterfall

Trail Features & Guide

Hazelwood Lake

LRCA Size: 618 ha 7 km of trails Excellent lake for paddling

Cascades

LRCA Size: 162 ha 5.5 km of trails Follows Current River

Mills Block Forest

LRCA Size: 284 ha 4 km of trails Managed forest

Kakabeka Falls

Provincial Park Size: 500 ha 8.5 km of trails 2nd highest waterfall in Ont.

William Bog

Cedar Falls

Kam inistiq uia R .

Kam Valley

LRCA 13 Size: 23 ha

Lush 1 km trail Cascading waterfall

City Trails ")

City of Thunder Bay Over 56 km of multiuse marked trails Follows urban rivers

Fort William First Nation Painted Rock Oliver L. Loch Lomond

Whitefish Lake

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Caldwell Lake

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Pigeon River

Provincial Park 20 km of trails Historic waterfalls Scenic lookout

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James Duncan

Pine Bay

NCC 9.8 km of hiking trails Cobble beach Scenic lookout

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Kingfisher Lake

LDSB Well marked 4.6 km of trails Education centre

LRCA Size: 221 ha Managed forest 2.3 km of trails

Trowbridge Forest

City of Thunder Bay Size: 47 ha Large mountain bike park Over 55 km of multiuse trails

Mission Island Marsh

LRCA Size: 16.7 ha 2.4 km of trails and boardwalk Great for nature photography

Sleeping Giant

Provincial Park Size: 24,400 ha Over 100 km of trails Tallest cliffs in Ontario

ada Can A US

Pie Is land

Mink Mountain

Mink Mountain Resort 6 km of hiking trails 153 m above Superior Scenic lookout

Prince & Jarvis

MNRF 137 m above Superior 20 km of unmarked trails Parnoramic lookout

Darren McChristie

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Wishart

LRCA - Lakehead Region Conservation Authority NCC - Nature Conservancy of Canada TBFN - Thunder Bay Field Naturalists

Information on this map is as accurate as possible; however we do not assume any liability for errors or omissions. Not intended for navigational purposes.

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CoverStory

Darren McChristie

Emily Turner

Trail Features & Guide

Cascades Conservation Area 5.5 km

8 km

Distance

Parking

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Accessible Hiking

Biking

Camping

Scenic Lookout

Pay

Darren McChristie

Index

The Cascades are an oft-cited favourite outdoor recreation spot in Thunder Bay, owned and managed by the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority, who acquired the six parcels of land that make up the current space between 1969 and 1975. A number of marked, colour-coded trails meander throughout the poplar and birch forest, with a popular destination being the iron-rich rocky shores of the Current River. They overlook the conservation area’s namesake cascades, a well-used swimming spot (although caution should be exercised in fast-water conditions and near falls in the river). Paving work was completed in July 2023 on the 540-metre Forest Trail and the initial stretch of the Yellow

Trail, which makes this loop compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Look for a variety of birds here, including woodpeckers and various species of owls. Proposed future trail development further upriver is in the works.

The Gem

The Red Trail 1.5 km The 1.5-kilometre Red Trail follows the Current River in a northwest-to-southeast direction, although along most of the trail, the river isn’t visible. The trail still offers a great leisurely hike with a roughly 15-metre elevation change along its route. Other marked trails provide access to each of Red’s two trailheads. -Matt Prokopchuk

Mink Mountain Resort Trail System 6 km Mink Mountain Resort, off Highway 61 in Neebing, offers a variety of loop trails on a craggy, treed point that juts out between Sturgeon Bay and Mink Bay. From the Island Avenue trailhead you can embark on a series of loops of various lengths—for example, there’s the Lakewalk Trail, a winding coastal walk dotted with gravel beaches along Lake Superior, or the Mink Mountain Trail, which takes you to a lookout 600 feet above the lake with gorgeous panoramic views of the deep blue water and islands like Michigan’s Isle Royale. If you’re staying at the main lodge, Buck’s Trail is an easy hike that also takes you to the

junction that leads to other loops.

The Gem

Picnic Point At the east end of Island Avenue, head further east on the scenic Picnic Point Trail. Short and sweet at 450 metres, this trail involves a very steep rocky climb early on (there is a rudimentary rope railing to assist you) but is a pretty moderate hike after that. You emerge onto Picnic Point, a rocky finger of land with sweeping views of the lake on either side. It is not fenced so use good judgement, especially if the rocks are wet. -Bonnie Schiedel

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

100 km Not only is Sleeping Giant Provincial Park home to the most hiking trails of any of Ontario’s provincial parks, it also boasts some of the tallest cliffs in the province. Its namesake, the Sleeping Giant, is located at the end of the 52 kilometre-long Sibley Peninsula, which juts out from the north shore of Lake Superior, just east of Thunder Bay. The Giant is formed by a series of flat-topped mesas that resemble a recumbent human—the legendary Nanobosho.

The Gem

Top of the Giant Trail 12 km out-and-back The Top of the Giant trail is a challenging

hike with a 290-metre climb that will bring you to your knees, or at least to the knees of the Giant. The one-way hike begins at the south Kabeyun Trailhead with an easy 6.5-kilometre trail. Just past Tee Harbour, take the trail to the right at the base of the Giant. The Top of the Giant trail is impeccably designed with switchbacks and stairs for the steep sections. This makes for a hike that is physically demanding but not overly technical. The trail winds its way to the top of the Giant and then continues another 2 kilometres to a scenic lookout that has become one of the most iconic in Ontario. -Darren McChristie

Shelly Brown Chris Eby

Darren McChristie

CoverStory

James Duncan Nature Trail

9.8 km Part of the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s Big Trout Bay Nature Reserve off Highway 61, the James Duncan Nature Trail is one of the area’s newer hiking trails. Hike the whole thing point-to-point for a more strenuous day, or choose from one of two trailheads for an out-and-back hike: you can start at the Little Trout Bay Conservation Area north trailhead for a steep and rugged climb to a series of gorgeous cliffside lookouts over Lake Superior (as well as a spur trail to Mount Mollie), or begin at the Memory Road south trailhead for a gentler walk through the forest to the lakeshore. The route is well-marked. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for a wonderful variety of flora and

fauna, including pink lady’s slipper, Arctic butterbur, pileated woodpeckers, and peregrine falcons.

The Gem

Cobble Beach Trail 3.3 km out-and-back from Memory Road trailhead This route starts with a meandering trail through a restored wetland that’s home to frogs, dragonflies, redwinged blackbirds, and more, then along the coastal boreal forest of balsam fir, spruce, birch and poplar. Your destination: a curved Lake Superior beach covered in smooth, round cobblestones and sculptural driftwood. Listen to the wind and the waves while you enjoy a bit of R&R. -Bonnie Schiedel

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Pigeon River Provincial Park

20 km Although Pigeon River Provincial Park is for day use only, it has a lot to offer: towering waterfalls, grand beaches, and spectacular views. Located at the Canada/ U.S. border, the park’s trails are accessible from the Ontario Travel Information Centre. The 2.5-km (one way) Finger Point Trail goes past a sandy beach to a scenic view of Lake Superior. Often overlooked, the Middle Falls Lookout Trail climbs to the top of a cliff that overlooks Pigeon River and Lake Superior. The lookout can be accessed from the travel centre as well as from the parking lot of the nowclosed Middle Falls Provincial Park located on Highway 593. The Boardwalk Trail provides barrier-free access to a platform overlooking the lake

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and to a beach.

The Gem

High Falls Trail 2 km loop Straddling the Canada/ U.S. border, High Falls is the highest waterfall in Minnesota. The High Falls loop leads under the highway from the travel centre to the impressive 28metre-high waterfall. This challenging trail follows the Pigeon River and offers stellar views of the river gorge and canyon walls. In addition to being part of a historic fur trading canoe route, in the 1890s, a Wisconsin lumber company constructed a log slide to drive white and red pine logs down the Pigeon River to mills in Port Arthur and Duluth. Remnants of the slide are visible today. -Darren McChristie

Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park

8.5 km Centred around the thundering waters of the “Niagara of the North,” Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park offers spectacular photo ops and some great hiking options close to the city—a perfect place to bring visitors. Right next to the day-use parking area you’ll find the Boardwalk Trail, a short, easy, accessible route that offers multiple vantage points to enjoy the falls. You can extend this hike for another kilometre on the Mountain Portage Trail loop and experience part of the historic portage that early travelers used. This path is wide enough for wheelchairs, but has a looser-footing gravel base. Here you’ll find excellent views of the falls, gorge, and river. If camping at the park, check out

the 4-kilometre loop around Whispering Hills campground, a hike that really shines with colour in the fall.

The Gem

Little Falls Trail 2.5 km loop Although dwarfed by their more spectacular neighbour, the picturesque Little Falls are well worth the trip. Access this moderately difficult loop trail from the Mountain Portage Trail, near the southwest end (follow the signs). Follow along the gorge into the river valley and then descend to visit the serene waterfalls fully immersed in the forest. The hike back up to the Mountain Portage trail is short but steep. -Kat Lyzun

Emily Turner Darren McChristie

Darren McChristie

CoverStory

City of Thunder Bay Trail Network 56 km With over 56 combined kilometres of multiuse trails throughout Thunder Bay, there are countless ways to explore our city. From Boulevard Lake, to Centennial Park, to the Friendship Gardens, to Chapples Park, each city trail system is unique in its landscape, length, scenery, and amenities. As well, 34 kilometres of these trails hug rivers and lakes within the city, providing access to our waterways throughout the year. Whether you are taking your dog for a walk, your child to a park, or your friend for a stroll, chances are there is a city trail that can get you there. All trails are free to use, and while most city trails are paved and maintained yearround, some are more accessible than others; particular attention should be paid to areas where the pavement has heaved. For a complete map of urban

trails and specifics for each, visit thunderbay. ca/en/recreation/ biking-walking-andtrails.

The Gem

Planned Waterfront Trail 13.5 km The city of Thunder Bay is hoping to build a new 13.5-kilometre multi-use trail running from Fisherman’s Park in Current River to the Jackknife Bridge via the Mission Island Marsh. One section near the Pool 6 site has already been constructed. The Waterfront Trail Rotary Community Action Team, along with other community groups and advocates, are championing this new park-to-parkto-park trail as a significant step in the revitalization of our waterfront. -Kelsey Raynard

Darren McChristie Darren McChristie

5 km Silver Falls Provincial Park is a nonoperating park nestled 35 kilometres northwest of Thunder Bay. Established in 1985, this natural environment park is known for the beautiful Silver Falls Trail that follows the cascading rapids of the Kaministiquia River and overlooks Dog Falls. It’s a challenging hiking route located off Silver Falls Road a short distance away from the provincial park campground entrance; you can park for free at the fence near the Ontario Power Generation plant and treat this as an outand-back trail. In some sections, you may find a muddy, rugged trail covered with the sprawling roots of the impressive trees. In other areas, you will be

met with flat bedrock and large boulders along the water, which make for perfect picnic spots when water levels are low. Go for an afternoon and walk until you find one of the calm swimming holes, or spend the whole day exploring the sprawling, adventurous area.

The Gem

Silver Falls’ white cedars Along the Silver Falls Trail are some of the oldest and largest eastern white cedars that can be found in northern Ontario, which tower over the trail to create a shady, wet environment that encourages the growth of wild iris and wood lilies. -Emily Turner

Hazelwood Lake Conservation Area 7 km Also well-known as a great paddling spot near Thunder Bay, Hazelwood Lake offers the most opportunities for hiking at any of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority’s locations, with a total of 7 kilometres of trails. Located about 15 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, the authority acquired the land in parcels between 1969 and 1990. It also owns the lakebed of the manmade namesake lake. There are three main trails: the 2.5- kilometre Orange Trail, which is a more leisurely hike that offers great views of the lake; the Forest Community Trail, which is another 2.5-kilometre loop that takes you through the forest of trembling aspen, white birch,

balsam poplar, and jack pine, and includes lookouts over some wetland areas; and the 1.5-kilometre out-andback Dam Trail, which ends at a 120-year-old dam initially built to generate hydroelectric power, but now is used for flood control and educational purposes.

The Gem

Assorted fungi The Hazelwood Lake area is home to over 50 species of fungi that have been identified. Along your hikes, particularly in late summer or early fall, you may notice them populating stumps and dead trees. The LRCA’s mushroom hike is often held here. -Matt Prokopchuk

LRCA Staff

Emily Turner

Silver Falls Provincial Park

Emily Turner

LRCA Staff

CoverStory

Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area 2.4 km Located on the northeast tip of Mission Island, the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority’s Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area offers a number of trails throughout its nearly 17-hectare property. The land, which was leased from the city in 1991, was formerly a waste disposal site and, historically, Mission Island has largely been used for industrial purposes. Nowadays, thanks to decades of rehabilitation efforts, the conservation area boasts a provincially significant wetland, and also includes more park-like areas and a variety of other small ecosystems, including sections of forest, lagoon, and meadow. The area is also a popular spot for bird watchers, as

it’s a key stopover point for many species of migratory shorebirds, land birds, and waterfowl. Deer are also a-plenty. The paved walkways are noted as being compliant with the Access for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

The Gem

Lake Superior view Offering one of the more unobstructed ground-level views of the iconic Sleeping Giant and Lake Superior, there are plenty of opportunities for taking in their splendor and grabbing some amazing photos. Unfortunately, the viewing stations are no longer there, but the LRCA is considering more modern alternatives. -Matt Prokopchuk

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Trowbridge Forest 55 km The Trowbridge Forest trail network consists of 55 kilometres of multiuse trails in two main areas—Trowbridge Forest/Kinsmen Park and Shuniah Mines. This part of the Current River watershed is dominated by a single large mesa and many of the trails either climb or descend the slopes. The trails, plus the bike skills park, are accessible from the parking lot at Kinsmen Park on Copenhagen Road. Some of the trails in the Trowbridge Forest include the doubletrack Centennial Park trails while others in Shuniah Mines area are remnants of a silver mine which operated intermittently in the late 1800s. The name Shuniah is derived from the Ojibwe word zhooniyaa which means money or silver. While the trails are all multi-use, they have been designed with

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mountain bikes in mind.

The Gem

Lift Access, Look Out! and Scary Canary Trails 2.6 km Looking to add some flow to your next mountain bike ride? These intermediate trails have quickly become fan favourites thanks to their exceptional design. Lift Access is an uphill only trail that climbs 31 metres to Look Out!—a slick 1.5-kilometrelong flow trail with berms (don’t miss the actual lookout and the sweeping view of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant). The flow continues on Scary Canary—a halfkilometre-long downhill only trail that seems to end too soon. Our advice? Climb back up and do it again. -Darren McChristie

Darren McChristie

Mills Block Forest Conservation Area 4 km The area where the Mills Block Forest Conservation Area stands now was an active silver mine in the late 1800s, but virtually none of that industrial history is noticeable now. Instead, the nearly 300 hectares of land, acquired in parcels by the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority between 1969 and 1976, is home to 4 kilometers of unpaved but mostly hard-packed dirt trails that, while not officially rated as such, should be accessible to most. They loop through a mixed forest with areas of ponded wetlands that are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna—the area is also home to an active beaver dam, and the breeding ponds for

amphibians often draw a lot of attention. A boardwalk completes the looped trail that returns you to the main access route.

The Gem

The wetlands The Mills Block wetlands are home to a large variety of wildflowers and orchids that are rare to Northwestern Ontario. You’ll be able to see them scattered throughout the conservation area, and their footprint is reportedly mildly spreading. If you come across them, however, enjoy the sight, and get some photos, but do not remove them from their natural habitat. -Matt Prokopchuk

Darren McChristie

LRCA Staff

Darren McChristie

LRCA Staff

Darren McChristie

CoverStory

Cedar Falls Conservation Area 1.3 km One of the smallest, most remote Lakehead Regional Conservation Authority properties is Cedar Falls, a conservation area located west of Thunder Bay in O’Connor Township. Just a few kilometres away from Kakabeka Falls, this easy trail loops through the forest and parallel to Cedar Creek, which is a part of the Whitefish River watershed that flows east into Lake Superior. The trail is wide and wellgroomed; it brings you to the modest but beautiful cascading Cedar Falls. The area

is lush, green, and thick with picturesque undergrowth, a quiet spot perfect for birdwatching (keep an eye out for the Canada Warbler) or walking your dog.

The Gem

Cedar Creek Cedar Creek is home to rainbow and speckled trout, which may be spotted jumping up the small falls during the spring and fall respectively. During the open season, be sure to bring your fishing rod along with you on the trail. -Emily Turner

Wishart Conservation Area 2.3 km The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority acquired the two parcels of land that would become the Wishart Conservation Area in 1969, totalling just over 200 hectares. Nowadays, the area is a quiet, serene patch of spruce and jack pine boreal forest with trail access off of both sides of Onion Lake Road, just north of Thunder Bay. The LRCA has recently completed forest management work in the area, cutting down a number of noninhabited overmature trees, which were at risk of blowing down, as well as contributing to an increased fire hazard; the harvested areas have been

replanted with young species. Given its relative remoteness compared to other LRCA properties, Wishart also provides opportunities for nature watching, specifically the owls that inhabit the area.

The Gem

Current River upstream Trails accessed from the eastern side of Onion Lake Road lead to the shores of the Current River upstream of The Cascades. From there, you can walk along a section of the river that isn’t as often explored, compared to other access points in town. -Matt Prokopchuk

Kingfisher Lake Trail 4.3 km The public-access Kingfisher Lake trail is an excellent, yearround hike not far from the city. The trail is a 4.3-kilometre loop, starting and finishing at the parking lot of the Kingfisher Lake Outdoor Education Centre. Winding through wetland and forest to the shoreline of Kingfisher lake, this trail truly encompasses the diversity of our hiking landscape here in the Thunder Bay area. For those of us who grew up here, hiking through Kingfisher brings a sense of nostalgia for the days of field trips to this awesome education centre. The trail is well-marked and maintained, making it a fairly easy hike (but prepare for some uphills and downhills). To access the trail,

Darren McChristie

Lada Malek

Emily Turner

Darren McChristie

CoverStory

Prince & Jarvis Area 20 km

travel east on Highway 11/17 and turn left onto Highway 527 towards Armstrong. Continue for 20 kilometres and watch for the sign on the right for the Kingfisher Outdoor Education Centre. Park to the left in the parking area near the highway (the driveway is not for public use).

The Gem

Educational displays There are various educational posts throughout the trail if you would like to learn more about the history, flora, and fauna of the forests here in Northwestern Ontario. You can get your exercise and some education at the same time! -Kelsey Raynard

Having been logged and mined, the Prince & Jarvis area had a diverse past prior to 1968 when the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry purchased the land. From Highway 61, turn onto Sturgeon Bay Road and then turn right on Walker Road. You can drive down this road until you reach the washed-out bridge. Most of the trail is actually an old section of Jarvis Bay Road. You can hike or bike the road all the way to its end at Jarvis Bay. Along the way, you’ll find a trail loop that leads to two scenic views overlooking Lake Superior. The hiking is not clearly marked and is overgrown in some spots, but the views are well worth the sporadic bushwhacking.

The Gem

Palisades Lookout Trail 7 km out-and-back This route starts approximately 1 kilometre from the Jarvis River. You can choose to canoe over the Jarvis River or bike/ hike from Walker Road. The trail traverses through a birch and poplar forest and over smooth bedrock. Beware: there is a significant muddy section that will make it difficult to keep your feet dry. Keep right at the fork where the trail begins to climb, rewarding you with a spectacular panoramic view of Mink, Prince, and Jarvis Bays and surrounding islands. -Darren McChristie

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Darren McChristie

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 Tee Harbour in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park today

 The site of the former Shuniah Mines today

Local Trail Areas

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Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum  Shuniah mine shaft after it had been filled in, circa 1915

 Mr. Brown in his boat at Tee Harbour, 1921

 Late 1800s photo of buildings and a wood pile at the Shuniah Mines, which opened in 1867 and continued off and on until 1881

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

Darren McChristie

 Undated photo of a colonial-dressed man standing on the summit of Thunder Cape overlooking Lake Superior’s Tee Harbour; original photo, James Esson Preston

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Public Library

any of the Thunder Bay area’s now-favourite places to hike or walk had very different pasts than the pristine wilderness of today. Here are some images that show the passage of time on these iconic locations.

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

Then and Now

 Undated aerial photo of Mission Island; the island used to contain a dump that is now the site of the Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area

Darren McChristie

Darren McChristie  High Falls on the Pigeon River today

 The Sea Lion today

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

 Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area today

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

Darren McChristie

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 Undated photo of the log chute at High Falls, Pigeon River

 Undated photo of the Sea Lion at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Silver Islet, showing its head before it broke off

 High Falls, circa 1920 to 1940

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

 Undated aerial photo of the Ontario Hydro generating plant on Mission Island

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Pack Up

CoverStory

Ten Essentials to Bring Along on Your Hike What kind of things should you carry, whether for an afternoon, an overnight, or a multi-day trip? At a minimum, the Lakehead Search & Rescue Unit says one should carry these 10 essentials: Flashlight Fire-making kit/supplies Signaling device (e.g. a whistle, reflective signal mirror, mini pocket/pen flares) Extra food and water Extra clothing Navigational/communication devices First aid kit Emergency blanket/shelter Pocket knife Sun protection Also, ensure you can purify water and always include repair material to fix your gear.

When You Step from the Path

Lost and Found in the Wilderness with Lakehead Search & Rescue Story by Justin Allec, Photo by Emily Turner

icture this happening: you’re out for a hike, you’re out for a walk through the woods behind the park. It’s a warm, sunny afternoon and you’re enjoying the exercise. Suddenly, you realize that you aren’t on the trail you thought you were, and that you are lost. Oliver Luther and Dan Currie volunteer with the Lakehead Search & Rescue Unit, and are experts when it comes to finding people who have gotten themselves into terrible situations. With strong outdoor recreation backgrounds and a love of Thunder Bay’s wilderness, they know exactly what one needs to do before heading out the door. Whether you’re going for a walk or on a multiple day canoe trip, Luther and Currie have some tips and tricks to help keep you safe and coming back home. “Any activity beyond a casual walk at a city park requires preparation,” Luther says, and advises people use the “3 Ts” approach: trip planning, training, and taking the essentials. Trip planning answers the questions of where you are going and how long the trip should take, and will be the first details searchers need. “Tell someone

where you are going and when you expect to return, other important details such as intended campsite locations, number of people in the party, type of activity, and descriptions of persons, gear and vehicles,” he says. Training involves preparation for both the body and equipment being used so you can rely on yourself. The essentials of what you’ll need to take for a trip somewhat depend on the activity, but at a minimum you should carry a map, first aid kit, and extras like food and water. If you do happen to become lost and you’ve given someone your trip information before leaving, the best thing to do is wait, Luther says. “The worst thing anybody can do is panic and start running around in circles, as this usually results in becoming more lost,” he says. “Most often your best move is just to stay put, get comfortable, seek shelter, and prepare signals to attract attention.” Luther emphasizes that searches take time, both to initiate and to carry out, so stay calm and hunker down. And time is always a factor with being lost. If night is approaching, then you will need to worry about the risks

Eight Resources to Help With Your Next Adventure

of exposure—another reason to stay put. This will help you conserve energy and prevent injuries. As well, while members of the Search & Rescue Unit are trained in the incident command system and have first aid training, the wilderness is a very big place. The gap between being lost and people realizing you’re lost could be significant, and to have a search initiated, a 911 call will have to be made. Only then will the police determine how to proceed and if the Search & Rescue Unit is required. Once the unit arrives on the scene, they’ll establish their command post and begin sending teams out equipped with supplies and communications equipment. The best advice of all, of course, remains to not get lost in the first place. If it does happen, though, Luther advises to be patient. First, with searchers, as described above, but also with yourself. Getting lost can be a humiliating experience, but remaining calm and staying put are the best things to do, provided you’ve planned your trip properly. Hopefully the only stories you have to tell afterward are all about the fun you had!

For more information about Lakehead Search & Rescue, visit lsru.com and follow them on Instagram @lsru_osarva.

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Know Before You Go G.I. Joe famously said that knowing is half the battle. And with so many resources at our fingertips, it’s no surprise that there are many outlets you can check out to learn more about the areas to walk and hike in our region. Here are eight of them.

Thunder Bay Hiking Association tbha.ca

Superior Hiking

superiorhiking.com

Thunder Bay Field Naturalists tbfn.net

Thunder Bay Hiking Group

facebook.com/groups/tbayhiking

Trailforks

trailforks.com

Lakehead Region Conservation Authority lakeheadca.com

Nature Conservancy of Canada natureconservancy.ca

City of Thunder Bay trails

thunderbay.ca/en/recreation/bikingwalking-and-trails.aspx

CoverStory

 Trails the Northwestern Ontario Recreational Trails Association wants to turn into official routes, as part of the Trans Canada Trail

New Options for Northwestern Ontario Hikers Local Organization Developing New Trails in the Region

Story by Kris Ketonen, Photos courtesy of the The Northwestern Ontario Recreational Trails Association

ikers will soon have many more options when hitting the trails in Northwestern Ontario. The Northwestern Ontario Recreational Trails Association is working to develop a series of new trails in the region that will be connected to the Trans Canada Trail system, says Len Day, the association’s president. “Our catchment area that we're looking at is Thunder Bay west to Atikokan, east to Nipigon-Red Rock, and then south to the Minnesota border,” Day says. “We're expanding existing land trails within the city of Thunder Bay, east and west, connecting

to the existing land trails in Atikokan and Nipigon, and then down to the Minnesota border.” Day says currently, the only option for people who want to travel through Northwestern Ontario via the Trans Canada Trail is to make use of the water trail system. “Our goal is to expand the Trans Canada Trail system so it includes more user groups and gives more of a three-to-four-season option for people to get out and enjoy it, instead of just basically two or three with the water trail.” The group is currently working on a multi-phase plan; the first phase is focusing on the Shabaqua Trail, which will

run from Kakabeka Falls west to Shabaqua. The second phase would see the creation of a trail running from Thunder Bay to Kakabeka Falls. That would be followed by trails from Kakabeka Falls down to the Minnesota border, Thunder Bay to Nipigon, and finally Shabaqua to Atikokan. In an interview with The Walleye in July, Day said the group had applied to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for permits to build the Shabaqua Trail. Approval was expected later that month, and the group hopes to finish the Shabaqua Trail this year. “What we're doing is taking advantage of

logging roads that have grown in and are not being used,” he says. “Our intent there is to go in and […] clear the old roads to establish a trail. With that, the bulk of the trail exists. We just have to get in there and remove the brush and deadfall.” However, some brand-new trails will be required, as well, Day says. “Essentially, they connect the end of one logging road to the next logging road, which, when all four connected trails are in place, will make one continuous trail.” Meanwhile, applications for permits for the second phase will be submitted in the fall, with the goal of work starting in spring 2024.

“There’s a lot of interest in people being able to travel across Northwestern Ontario, a lot of interest in the Trans Canada Trail system itself,” Day says. “We do have a fairly decent network of trails here within the City of Thunder Bay and surrounding area. However, lots of them aren't officially maintained or established.” Anyone interested in volunteering with the group can find more information on their website at nworta. wixsite.com/nworta.

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Food

PomegranateTahiniHalloumi Skewers

THE NING IN R G BELLY

By Chef Rachel Bayes

ood on a stick always tastes better, amirite? Especially grilled, salty, sweet food on a stick. I made these skewers for a work friend’s going-away party (Steve, we miss you!), and they were a big hit. Something about the sweetness of the pomegranate molasses and the saltiness of the halloumi cheese—divine! I used the same veggie-cheese combination at another friend’s place with a garlic-herb marinade, and they tasted great, too. I wasn’t patient enough to search out pre-made pomegranate molasses in the

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store, so I made my own. Also, I used pomegranate-cherry juice (the shelf-stable kind), which was a lot less expensive than the Pom brand you’ll find in the refrigerated section. To make your own: Simmer 1 litre of pomegranate juice (can use pom/cherry or pom/ blueberry) with ½ c sugar and 2 Tbsp lemon juice. Stir well, and let reduce until you are left with 1 c molasses. The kebab marinade uses 2 Tbsp, but you can use leftover molasses in drinks, salad dressings, and anywhere else you’d use a liquid sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Veggie-Halloumi Skewers with Tahini-Pomegranate Marinade Makes 10 8” skewers

Soak 10 8” bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes, while you’re preparing everything else. ½ c tahini, well-stirred 6 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 10 Tbsp fresh orange juice (from 2 oranges), as needed, divided 2 Tbsp pomegranate molasses 1½ tsp kosher salt ½ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Whisk marinade ingredients together, using 5 Tbsp orange juice (this is your marinade). Measure ½ cup of the marinade into a small bowl and add the remaining 5 Tbsp orange juice (this is your drizzling sauce). Set this aside for when your skewers come off the grill.

1 medium bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 small red onion, cut into 10 (½ inch-thick) wedges 1 c cherry tomatoes 1 pound halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

Thread bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and halloumi cheese onto the soaked skewers. Make them as orderly or chaotic as you’d like! Place loaded skewers on a baking tray and slather with marinade. Let stand about an hour to soak in the goodness.

Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 400°F), and if you have those fancy silicone grill mats, use those to place skewers on. If you don’t have mats, make sure your grill is clean and well-oiled, or the halloumi will stick. Turn skewers occasionally, charring all sides. Transfer to a platter and drizzle the sauce you set aside earlier. You can serve these skewers as-is, garnished with cilantro, and alongside cooked rice if you’d like.

OF DRINK H T MON

Food

Swimming with the Fishes & Sunset on the Beach On The Links

Story by Jeannie Dubois, Photo by Jack Barten

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ince golf is such a fun and easy sport (kidding!), On The Links offers up golfing good times all year round with their very cool virtual facility. Come rain or snow, you can get your golf fix in at their nifty space, which caters to both the novice and the pro player. However, if you are actually looking for something fun and easy (again kidding!), they also have a very cool, low-key bar and lovely openair patio where you can kick back, take in some sun, and

sip on one of their aptly named fishbowls. Take a dive into a blend of blue curaçao, vodka, and Malibu rum mixed with Sprite and pineapple juice with a Swimming with the Fishes, or get cosy with some peach schnapps, vodka, and Pink Whitney mixed with Sprite, lemonade, and a touch of grenadine with a Sunset on the Beach. Go “fore” it this summer!

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Food

The Brew Pub

E OFF TH U MEN

Story and photo by Jack Barten

he humble brew pub— o n e o f e v e r y o n e ’s favourite types of restaurant. Just knowing the beer has been made with the same intention as the pub food is always a comforting and wholesome experience. Opening in 2020, The Brew Pub has quickly become a local favourite, both among lovers of its sister restaurant (Prospector Steak House, located next door) and those who are fans

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of good food and beer. This month The Brew Pub brings us their signature ahi tuna poke. With ahi tuna, pineapple, mango, avocado, edamame, rice, mixed lettuce, sriracha mayo, and cucumber, the ahi tuna poke is your quintessential poke experience. Because there are both sweet and savoury flavours at play, this is one of those dishes that is comforting and makes you feel good. The first thing you may

notice when presented with the dish is that wonderful tuna placed atop the bowl. The star of this show, the tuna is the perfect combination of salty, fishy goodness and wonderful texture, harmonizing perfectly with all the other elements of the dish. And let’s talk about those other elements. First, the sriracha mayo adds a bit of tang and creaminess that cuts into some of the salty elements of the tuna. Then there

is the cucumber, edamame, and mixed lettuce, which give freshness and crunchy texture to the bowl, and the pineapple and mango, which add a sweet, fresh kick to every last bite taken, really rounding this dish off in the spectrum of flavours represented. The base of the ahi tuna poke is the warm bed of rice that everything rests on. The rice not only melds all these different ingredients together, but also adds a bit

of warmth that elevates the experience to comfort food bliss. Sure, when you think “brew pub,” you don’t always think ahi tuna poke. But we really should change that, especially when The Brew Pub is serving this delicious poke experience all summer long. The Brew Pub 27 Cumberland Street 807-345-5833

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Food R SUPERIO SIP

Ice, Ice Baby Cool Summer Cocktails

By Jeannie Dubois, Pommelier and Sommelier

t is the most lovely time of the year around our gorgeous northern bay; the bugs have abated, the sun is shining long, warm, and bright, the grass has blessedly stopped growing at a rampant rate, and long weekends are in full effect. Evenings and weekends are reserved for the beautiful beacon of dock, deck, patio, and raft, where the wear and tear of the week can wash away in the sound of the soft wind or the sigh of the waves, the gentle fall of light, and the dapple of sun-kissed summer hours. A personal favourite is pulling a Muskoka chair into

For ice cream, do Mau Madness

For sorbet, do a Southerberry

Ingredients: Carton of French vanilla ice cream Bottle of limoncello Bottle of prosecco One lemon (cut into wedges for garnish)

Serves lots

Method: Add one big scoop of ice cream to a parfait glass (or tall glass). Pour 1½ ounces of limoncello over ice cream. Top glass with prosecco. Garnish glass with lemon wedge, add a spoon and straw and chill out.

Serves one

For frozen yogurt, do a Tropic Tango

Serves one

Ingredients: 1 banana ⅓ cup pineapple (save slices for garnish) ¼ cup frozen yogurt (any flavour) ½ tsp vanilla extract ¼ cup milk (any variety) ⅓ cup fruit (honeydew, cantaloupe, mango, papaya for example) 1 oz Malibu rum 1 Tbsp chia seed 1 scoop protein powder Sweetener to taste (such as honey or agave) Ice

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For sherbet, do a One-Two Punch

Ingredients: 2 oz silver tequila ½ oz orange liqueur ½ oz vanilla liqueur 2 scoops strawberry sorbet Ice Chili pepper (sliced for garnish) Method: In a cocktail shaker add ice, tequila, orange liqueur, and vanilla liqueur. Shake until chilled. Place two scoops of strawberry sorbet in a rocks glass. Strain cocktail shaker over sorbet. Garnish glass with a chili pepper, then swirl and sip.

the shallows of the big lake (which is warming up nicely) to gently while away a slice of summer, free of care for a few lovely moments, feet in the water, face to the sun, hopefully with a cool drink in hand. If you’re looking for a cold concoction to chill you out on a sun-baked day, look no further, because the chicest drinks this summer have a ball or two of something cool to keep your temperature down and help you deliciously beat the heat. Just remember the sunscreen, Thunder Bay!

Ingredients: 2 litres orange sherbet 16 oz frozen strawberries 16 oz frozen peaches 64 oz white grape juice 2 litres ginger ale One peach (sliced for garnish) Vodka, to taste (1 to 1½ oz per person should suit)

Serves four

Method: In a punch (or large) bowl, combine frozen strawberries, frozen peaches, grape juice, and ginger ale (as well as vodka). Scoop two balls of orange sherbet into large wine glasses each and top with punch bowl fruit and juice. Garnish each glass with a peach slice.

For gelato, do an Affogetgo Method: Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth and chilled. Pour into a highball glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice.

Ingredients: Vanilla gelato 2 oz hot espresso 1 oz Kahlúa coffee liqueur Grated dark chocolate for garnish

Serves one

Method: Brew espresso (or strong brewed coffee). In a dessert dish, place one large scoop of vanilla gelato. Pour Kahlúa over. Slowly pour espresso/coffee over. Garnish with grated chocolate. Stick in a spoon and enjoy.

Food

Welcome Back to Our House La Casa Nostra Ristorante Returns Story and photos by Sidney Ulakovic

“E

veryone who comes in says ‘We’re so glad you’re open again. We get to come back to our favourite restaurant,’” manager Miranda Hill says of beloved Thunder Bay eatery La Casa Nostra Ristorante reopening its doors earlier this year. Owner Nick DeAgazio is back to serving up a taste of Italy following a three-year COVID-related closure, and he’s looking forward to seeing new and familiar faces alike. DeAgazio was born in Calabria and lived there until he was 11 years old. La Casa Nostra, which translates to “our house,” serves authentic Calebrese cuisine as an homage to DeAgazio’s childhood in Italy. He starts each day preparing homemade dishes to be served that evening, from creamy seafood lasagna to sweet stuffed peppers, and a tangy house vinaigrette so good you could drink it. Diners can expect the same hospitality from La Casa Nostra

as before. The dining room itself is a feast for the eyes and ears. Diners are welcomed with live piano played throughout the evening. Once seated, there is plenty to look at, as DeAgazio has crafted his own art gallery, with each wall featuring its own proud display of his family and heritage. If you’re hoping to take advantage of the summer weather, ask to be seated on the patio, where you’ll feel as if you’re on your own Calabrian terrace surrounded by lush greenery. “People feel like they’re at home here,” Hill says, with DeAgazio quick to add “at home with service.” It’s DeAgazio’s service that truly sets the restaurant apart. He can be found making his rounds from table to table throughout the evening, introducing himself to firsttime guests or catching up with regulars. “He cares about his customers,” Hill says. “So he visits them throughout the night to make sure they’re comfortable.”

DeAgazio and Hill look forward to welcoming everyone back this summer. Look out for dinner specials on the restaurant’s Instagram @lacasanostrathunderbay, and be sure to ask about their unlisted wine selection.

 La Casa Nostra owner Nick DeAgazio and manager Miranda Hill  Nick DeAgazio in the kitchen

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Food

 Mika and Scotia, the mother/daughter duo behind The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pints

 Scotia (middle) and Mika, along with Scotia’s brother Bryson (left), the group’s “biggest supporter,” Scotia says

The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pints

Beer Enthusiasts Developing New Ways for Women to Network By Marcia Arpin

omething new is brewing in Thunder Bay. Previously known as Barley’s Angels, this mother/ daughter duo, now known as the Sisterhood of the Travelling Pints, has taken their variety of experiences in our community and developed a new calendar of events specifically designed for women. With infectious enthusiasm, party planners Mika and Scotia (the two only use their first names in connection with their group) describe the countless ideas they have to create safe spaces for women to try craft beer locally and regionally. In fact, they’ve also networked

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with other cities and towns to travel with groups of women to share their love for beer and fun. Although some events are primarily about beer, other events feature activities as creative as these ladies. Ideally, their events will also promote local women by highlighting their businesses, successes, and skills. “We are a group of kickass women supporting kickass women,” Mika says. Building from their I n t e r n a t i o n a l Wo m e n ’s D a y s p e c i a l t y b re w i n g collaborations with Dawson Trail Craft Brewery, Lakehead Beer Co., Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, and Canada Malting, Mika and Scotia are

excited about the countless possibilities for more local partnerships. For this team, beer and businesses can be an opportunity to empower women to learn to be savvy about cars, communication, money, or other trades. Events can offer life skills and hands-on learning. They can be planned to highlight female employees or women’s wellness. Regardless of the event, all guests will be made to feel welcome. The goal is inclusiveness. However, there is a deeper purpose for this sisterhood. Mika and Scotia are advocates for women. They are invested in making Thunder Bay a better place

and empowering women. “We want to connect women together to build each other up rather than tear each other down,” Mika says. Although fun (and beer) headline many of their upcoming events, education and charities are also important ingredients to this savvy business duo—they say to watch out for exciting events happening this fall, like self- defense sessions, and a women’s know-your-car series. This team is ready to meet the needs of the community with positive energy, imagination—and a couple of pints.

“We want to connect women together to build each other up rather than tear each other down.”

The Sisterhood is still setting up their new social media, so keep your eyes peeled.

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Food

Pizza with a Purpose

Rowan Tree Collective Purchases Both Hands Pizzeria By Emily Turner

L  The Team: Renée Fortin, Michelle Murdoch-Gibson, Paul Gibson, Ayla Ludwig  Rowan and Paul Gibsonn in front of Both Hands Pizzeria

Emily Turner

 Rowan Gibson making sandwiches for the Dew Drop Inn

 Remaking the restaurant with new art

Hands, these adults can further develop their food-making skills and feel a stronger sense of belonging within the Thunder Bay community. “I know our folks will enjoy being part of a team, having a uniform with their name on it, and all of the camaraderie that comes with a workplace, and feeling proud to be pitching in with something so great,” MurdochGibson says. “There are so many benefits of employment; obviously for the actual employee to feel validated […] and included. But we also want to increase visibility in the community of neurodiverse folks. I want the community to become more familiar with our folks.” Murdoch-Gibson and Gibson were inspired by a similar social business operation called Outside the Box Café based in Yorkshire, England, which has proven to be widely successful. The pair, with their son Rowan Gibson, have worked tirelessly to ensure the much-loved bread and pizza will stay the same as they embark in this journey to make Thunder Bay a more inclusive city, and have big plans for Both Hands going forward. Follow along with Rowan Tree Collective on Facebook at facebook.com/ rowantreecollective, or visit rowantreecollective.ca.

“There are so many benefits of employment; obviously for the actual employee to feel validated.”

Emily Turner

ast year, local residents Michelle Murdoch-Gibson, Paul Gibson, and Renée Fortin opened up the Rowan Tree Collective to provide social and recreational opportunities for adults with disabilities in the Thunder Bay community. After a successful and busy year, Murdoch-Gibson and Gibson are excited to announce they have officially purchased Both Hands Wood-Fired Pizzeria & Bakery, so they can offer employment opportunities to the community of adults of disabilities as well. Both Hands will now operate as a “social purpose enterprise, a revenue generating business with a commitment to driving social change,” as they explain in their promotional materials. While the restaurant will keep the original name, pizza menu, and sell the same delicious bread, the packaged and frozen goods will be rebranded with “All Hands—Products with Purpose,” and all revenue will go towards programming at the Rowan Tree Collective. With the restaurant, the collective will be able to develop their active citizenship and volunteerism branches of programming. Currently, program participants regularly bake treats and make sandwiches for the people who collect food from the Dew Drop Inn. With Both

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3 Different Camps Kinder Gymnastics And Ninja

Cheadles is proud to introduce our newest associate, Jeremy Kirk! Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Jeremy is a recent graduate of the University of Ottawa School of Law. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of North Dakota. Jeremy has joined the firm’s litigation team, where he will focus on labour & employment law. P: (807) 622-6821 | www.cheadles.com | E: info@cheadles.com Since 1953, Cheadles has proudly provided client-focused legal services in Thunder Bay and across northern Ontario.

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FilmTheatre

Movies About Hiking and Walking By Michael Sobota

THE ST ND MOLE O C E S B A R PLEASUG WE THIN HE DO IN TK DAR

A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES

Yeah. I know how to get there. But you gotta turn around. - Kurt (Will Oldham) in Old Joy

ovies about trails and walking or hiking are always journey stories. A character begins somewhere and ends somewhere else, usually internally as well as externally. It takes really good scriptwriting, strong acting, and deft directors to bring forward those internal changes on film. A great cinematographer helps situate those journeys. Here are four of the best movies about taking a hike into the unknown.

Gerry (2002)

When Gus Van Sant delivered Gerry to the big screens, he was riding high on the success of Good Will Hunting—especially its Oscar win for Matt Damon, and Ben Affleck’s original screenplay. Gerry is a collaboration between Van Sant, Damon, and Casey Affleck, Ben’s younger brother. The journey here is Damon and Affleck driving out to a desert somewhere in the southern U.S., hiking into that desert, and getting lost. Nothing happens. For nearly two hours. Well, next to nothing happens in this snailpaced, wide-vision panorama of hiking into the desert. They are lost, without food or water. Damon and Affleck call each other Gerry, and Gerry also becomes a verb. Dialogue is as sparse as water, and the film experience begins to get dusty, dry, and hot. The largest action sequence is one of the two characters jumping off a large rock. Harris Savides’s cinematography makes the desert both beautiful and dangerous. The film ends with the guys lying on their backs on the ground, still lost, uncertain where to go.

Old Joy (2006)

This is director Kelly Reichardt’s second feature film, and she co-wrote the screenplay with Jonathan Raymond. It begins with the reverberating sound of a metal meditation bowl being struck by Mark (Daniel London). He is sitting barefoot in his backyard. His pregnant wife (Tanya Smith) tells him he has a phone call. The call is from Kurt, a high school friend inviting him to come along on a hike into the Bagby Hot Springs in Oregon’s lush Cascade Range mountains. After a brief consultation with his wife, Mark agrees and soon the guys are on the road to get to the trail. Mark sees this as his last independent trip before he takes on the responsibilities of being a father. Kurt sees this as another nature hike with a subliminal effort to repair his distant friendship with his buddy. Peter Sillen’s cinematography adds a sensual, lush, and damp backdrop for their hike along a lightly flowing river. This is a quiet, visually poetic film about lost relationships, efforts to rebuild, and acceptance of friends moving on into different paths.

Into the Wild (2007)

Sean Penn directs this film from his own script based on Jon Krakauer’s original book. The film gives us the true journey of Chris McCandless (Emile Hirsch), a young American who, after graduating from university, gives away his savings, distances himself from his parents and friends, and roams around the southwestern states until making a decision to hike into the Alaskan wilderness. It is the iconic story of a young man trying to find himself. It is about bravery, risk, foolishness, pushing boundaries, honesty, and the unforgiving hardships in nature. Penn gathers an incredible ensemble of actors including Hirsch, Kristen Stewart, Catherine Keener, Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt, Vince Vaughn, and Hal Holbrook, guiding them into masterful performances. This is Penn’s finest film. The cinematography, by Éric Gautier, adds dazzling colour, light, and weight to this ultimately tragic story.

And here are six more hiking and trail movies you can take a walk with while sitting in your most comfortable chair: The Way (2010), Sightseers (2012), Wild (2014), Walking Out (2017), Camino Skies (2019), and Nomadland (2020).

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A Walk in the Woods (2015) Robert Redford was already 79 and Nick Nolte 74 when they signed on to play real-life characters Bill Bryson and his friend Katz, who, once again, had been high school buddies, now embarking on an effort to hike the Appalachian Trail on America’s east coast. The film is directed by Ken Kwapis from a screenplay co-written by Rick Kerb and Bill Holderman based on Bryson’s original book. The script's main motivation seems to be that these old guys can still do this hike in the wilderness in their old age. The Appalachian Trail is popular and they run into many other hikers enroute. The story is simplistic, corny comedy, riddled with cliché aphorisms and slapstick humour. And yet, there are moments of smart, serious connection and emotion. The real star here is John Bailey’s cinematography and a score utilizing simple acoustic songs and light piano rhythms.

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FilmTheatre

 The stars of The Marvellous Wonderettes: Caps & Gowns – Jaime Morrison, Tegin Menei, Amanda Commisso, and Katherine Nemec

The Marvellous Wonderettes Summer Theatre Fun: The Sequel with Caps & Gowns By Taylor Onski

he story of The M a r v e l l o u s Wonderettes, voted The Walleye’s Best Theatre Production of 2022, continues with The Marvellous Wonderettes: Caps & Gowns. Rather than facing prom and their 10-year reunion, as they did in the original production, Missy (Amanda Commisso), Cindy Lou (Tegin Menei), Suzy (Jaime Morrison), and Betty Jean (Katherine Nemec) now face the aftermath of those two events in this sequel: high school graduation in act one, and Missy’s wedding

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in act two, all while singing along to classics of the late 50s and late 60s. “We’ve made this show accessible to anyone who hasn't seen the first one,” says Nemec. “There's callbacks to the first show, but they in no way dictate the plot. You’ll still enjoy it even if you haven't seen the first one.” While audiences can expect these callbacks and the return of great songs and audience participation, these actresses are passionate and diligent in making this a new experience for first-time and

returning audience members alike. “You have to make it fresh and new, so audiences go ‘okay, this isn't the same show we saw last time,’” says Morrison. “We have to ensure that we’re doing that to the best of our abilities.” Since June, these actors have been working on choreography and harmonies; however, the easiest part for them is easing back into the friendships and bonds they sustained over the past year. “It’s not only another year to develop these characters, but a year of us developing even

stronger relationships with one another,” says Menei. “While our characters are going through their own trials and joys in life, we’ve done that this year together. The bond that we have on stage is just going to shine even more.” As for the music, audiences will hear classics such as “Rock Around the Clock,” “River Deep – Mountain High,” and “Dancing in the Street,” to name a few of the 27 songs of Caps & Gowns. “It's a great show for some girls to get together and go out. But a lot of men enjoyed it too last

year,” says Commisso. “It’s a show for everyone. You can escape whatever else is going on, and for the people of the 50s and 60s, enjoy the throwback.” The Marvellous Wonderettes: Caps & Gowns runs August 1–3 and 8–10 at the Paramount Theatre. To purchase tickets, visit badanai. eventbrite.ca. Follow Badanai Theatre on Facebook or Instagram for more information.

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FilmTheatre

Mean Girls

Applauze Productions to Stage Their Version of Classic Musical Story by Taylor Onski, Photo by Denise Krawczuk

hat’s more fun than going to Taco Bell? For fans of musical theatre and the cult classic film Mean Girls, it will be seeing Applauze Productions’ take on Mean Girls: The Musical. Sharing the role of formerly homeschooled Cady Heron is 18-year-old Mackinley Harding and 18-year-old Payton Douglas. At the same time, 18-year-old Katie Comeau and 17-year-old Gabby Carlin share the role of evil in human form, Regina George. With this double casting, these four talented young ladies

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are thrilled to be doing double duty. “It’s interesting to see how each of us have our own take on these characters because we’re not going to do the same thing,” says Douglas. “And then when we are not our characters, we are still dancing in a big pop musical.” What goes hand in hand with the fun, upbeat musical numbers is a story that offers something more fetch than wearing pink on Wednesdays. “Doing this show, I’m realizing high school is like that, and how someone like Cady struggles trying to fit in,” says Harding.

Carlin echoes that this show validates the high school experience. Safe to say these actors see the significance of the story beyond just the satire and iconic lines. “When you first look at Mean Girls, you see it one way: witty humor, outstanding music and extreme personalities,” says Comeau. “But once you actually start working with the script and developing your character, you see the dangers of conforming to social norms, the effects of bullying, and the importance of sticking up for who you are as a person.”

Not only can audiences expect to see all the iconic moments from the film, but also be inspired by this troupe of 26 actors having a lot of fun being true to themselves doing what they love to do on stage. “When a show is over the summer and you have more rehearsals, the friendships are stronger, which I think comes through on stage,” says Carlin. “We're all going to have lots of fun performing. The more invested we are in the performance, the more it will just shine through to the audience.”

“When a show is over the summer and you have more rehearsals, the friendships are stronger, which I think comes through on stage.” Mean Girls runs August 16–19 at the Trinity Hall Theatre. To purchase tickets, visit applauzeproductions.com.

FilmTheatre

Filming in Lappe

Stills from the trailer for Lempo; shooting for the film will take place this summer

Lempo Draws on Finnish Folklore, Filmmakers’ Upbringing Story by Kris Ketonen, images courtesy of Sisaruus Productions

Finnish demon, an intergenerational curse, and a love story: a short film being shot outside of Thunder Bay this summer has a lot to offer horror movie fans. The film, titled Lempo, was written by Tina Petrick, and will be directed by her sister LauraLynn Petrick when cameras roll in Lappe this month. “I wrote this in the summer of 2021 at One Island Lake,” Tina says. “Ontario was under some pretty strict restrictions there, COVID-wise. I decided I should write something really hyper-local, something that only I could write that's based on my childhood, my adolescence, where I'm from, my background.” The film will be shot on location at One Island Lake, where the Petrick sisters spent a lot of time as children. “It's our family's homestead from our Finnish relatives, so there's kind of already a sort of feeling out here of our family's history, and also just Finnish immigration,” Laura-Lynn says. “My sister was really inspired by that in writing this.” Story-wise, Lempo focuses on two childhood friends, Shaun and Annie, who find themselves spending the summer of 2004 in neighbouring cabins at the lake. But as the cyclical return

of the demon Lempo nears, Annie must make a decision: sacrifice herself to break an intergenerational curse, or trust in herself and fight back. But don’t expect a straightup slasher flick. “It has this really lovely love story in it,” Tina says. “Before Christianity, Lempo was considered a god of love and fertility. And when Christianity took over Finland, they actually transformed Lempo to be a devil-like figure, like Satan himself. So the script itself kind of explores the dark sides of love and lust, and how love can sometimes be like a double-edged sword.” Laura-Lynn says the aim is to shop the short around to festivals when it’s complete. But that won’t be the end of Lempo—a feature version of the story is also in the works. “We want to do this one really really well,” she says. “That's why we're asking for funding, so that we can just make it look as best as it can and bring in the right people.” For more information about Lempo, visit lempothefilm.com. To donate to the production, visit the film’s crowdfunding page at seedandspark. com/fund/ lempo-thefilm.

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Playing with Paper Local Artist Erin Stewart’s C&F Paper Creations By Sidney Ulakovic

Sidney Ulakovic

 Erin Stewart in a shirt featuring Casey and Finnegan from Mr. Dressup; the two iconic characters are reflected in the name of her business

 The Family That Has Coffee Together

 Shannon and Greg on Vacation

hen artist Erin Stewart moved to Thunder Bay to study English at Lakehead University, she never imagined her creative endeavours would lead her to playing with paper. Fast forward to the present, and Stewart has built a business based entirely around her lifelong love for construction paper creations. If you’re unfamiliar with Stewart’s work, it’s unique in that it’s created entirely from freehand cuts of construction paper. With these cuts, Stewart manages to convey an impressive amount of detail,

and fashions anything from local landscapes to wedding invitations to fun family portraits. “It kind of came organically,” Stewart says of her style. Stewart’s love for crafting with construction paper as a child blossomed as she crafted alongside Mr. Dressup on TV. (Fun fact, Stewart’s business name C&F Paper Creations comes from two characters, Casey and Finnegan, who were on Mr. Dressup.) This hobby followed her into adulthood, but she had never considered making a business out of it until a friend commissioned

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a piece. From there, Stewart has completed countless commissions, as well as a series of 15 Thunder Bay landscapes with funding provided by the Ontario Arts Council. Most recently, Stewart’s artwork will be displayed on the cover of upcoming novel Making Up The Gods by local author Marion Agnew. “It was extra special for me to have my picture on the front of a book when I love literature so much,” says Stewart. Originally, Agnew had commissioned Stewart for a portrayal of a sentimental place from her childhood. However, Agnew was so happy with the work that she decided to use it as the cover art for her novel. A lot of Stewart’s work

 Old Fort William at Night

deals with the capturing of memories—a building at a certain point in time, a couple saying “I do,” a commemoration of a beloved furry friend—all vibrantly rendered in a medium many people have not used since they were children. “I think it’s natural for me because I’m a very nostalgic person,” Stewart says of the sense of how she inevitably feels about her chosen subjects and medium. “It’s funny because when I would write poetry, it’s kind of exploring darker places; the artwork is more of an escape,” Stewart says, adding that in the future, she would love to challenge herself by integrating her artwork with her poetry.

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To see more of Stewart’s work, check out her Instagram @candfpapercreations. Stickers and T-shirts are available for purchase through her store on Redbubble by searching “Erin Stewart.” If you’re interested in commissioning Stewart for something custom, email candfpapercreations @gmail.com.

 Phantom Photo Shoot

 The Sea Lion at Sibley

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Jensen agree the connections they’ve made in the community have been the most enjoyable part of the last 20 years. “Meeting and working with artists, their inspiration, and seeing what they’re doing is very energizing,” Jensen says. She adds that “a lot of artists used to come in as children. We’ve seen them go from high school to university art programs and being in different shows. It’s just really neat to see.” Cull and Jensen’s tireless efforts have made the Painted Turtle a pillar of Thunder Bay’s art community, and their hope is to eventually pass the torch to someone with new energy to keep the legacy of the store alive, much like they did themselves 20 years ago. In the meantime, they would like to extend their gratitude to everyone who has supported them for so many memorable years. Check out the Painted Turtle Art Shop at paintedturtleart.com and on Facebook at facebook.com/ paintedturtleartshop.

 Co-owners of the Painted Turtle Art Shop, Lorraine Cull and Angie Jensen

Labour of Love

The Painted Turtle Hits Milestone 40th Anniversary Story and photo by Sidney Ulakovic

f you’ve spent any time at the Painted Turtle Art Shop, the store’s longevity in Thunder Bay will come as no surprise. Co-owners Lorraine Cull and Angie Jensen share a boundless passion for the local art community. They’re genuinely honoured to be part of the creative process, which is evident from each interaction with patrons and the stacks of reverently archived achievements of local artists over the years. Opened in 1983 by iconic local artist Ruth Tye McKenzie with the help of her husband, the Painted Turtle was originally located on Red River Road in the basement of the building that is now Tomlin. Cull shares that over the years, many people have told her that there was an intangible magic to the experience of walking down that stairway into the store. “Ruth opened up the store with the assistance of her husband, but she really did it on her own after. It took off with her.” As McKenzie was gearing up to sell the store and retire, then mere

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acquaintances Cull and Jensen took a leap of faith and purchased the Painted Turtle in 2003 (Cull had already worked there for 10 years). “It was really kind of interesting because [Angie] called me, and I only knew her as somebody who framed my work,” Cull says. However, their shared vision and value of each other’s individual strengths contributed to the business's ongoing success and ability to fund larger projects, such as upgrading the Baggage Building Art Centre on the waterfront. “It’s something the city needed,” Cull says of the Baggage Building project. The co-owners of The Painted Turtle felt a personal responsibility to fund the upgrades in order to keep the gallery local. “We really wanted to showcase the valuable community that we have,” Cull says. “The creative community here is awesome.” While the continued success of the Painted Turtle through location changes, COVID-19 restrictions, and a seemingly endless road closure is a reward in and of itself, Cull and

TheArts

Are These Things Not A Dream? By Penelope Smart, Curator, Thunder Bay Art Gallery Artist: Rebecca Baird Title: Are These Things Not A Dream? Date: 1984 Medium: White ash, wood, enamel, mixed media Size: 305 × 457 cm (120 1/16 × 179 15/16 in.) Collection of the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, gift of the artist, 1993 t’s a hot summer day. On a country road, or in a large garden plot, rows of tall corn stalks rustle in the wind. A crow flies overhead

and flickers black on a sea of green. In the stretch of long shadows, things are not as they seem. Are These Things Not A Dream? is the title of a largescale installation by artist Rebecca Baird. Her design of the wooden sculpture recalls a fence at the edge of a corn field; it includes four plant stalks and the shape of a bird's shadow upon the floor. While the fence posts are humanscale, the structure looms larger than life. Standing next to the piece, it’s as though the viewer

has arrived at a threshold or barrier, but not sure of the path they took to get there. Rebecca Baird was born in 1954 in Edmonton, Alberta. She is descended from Stony Mountain Cree, and is inspired by the aesthetics and ideologies of Cree and Navajo cultures. She works with mixed media, incorporating sweetgrass braids and weaving, feathers, hides, and basket weaving. Baird often works in an urban setting, combining traditional and contemporary materials and techniques,

HE FROM T BAY R E D N THU LLERY’S ART GA TION COLLEC

creating works which are metaphors for the duality of experience. She holds numerous awards for her work from the Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts. A new exhibition this August borrows its title from Baird’s piece. This short-running show is on view through midSeptember and includes several works by Baird, as well as other pieces made of natural materials such as corn husk and sweetgrass. Works of installation, visual

art, and objects in the gallery space connect to themes, experiences, and gifts of the high summer season—fruition, transformation, and harvest. Are These Things Not A Dream? End of Summer Selections from the Permanent Collection runs until September 17.

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Keegan Richard

TheArts

 Definitely Superior Art Gallery’s Members Exhibition Street art by the Die Active art collective

Thirty-five Years Running

Definitely Superior Art Gallery Celebrates Milestone Year By Sarah McPherson

Flashback Photo

or 35 years, Definitely Superior Art Gallery has been a staple of the arts community in Thunder Bay. In that time, they have supported over 37,500 artists, hosted more than 1,350 exhibitions, and brought in over a million patrons to numerous events and exhibitions. This summer, they are celebrating their 35th anniversary, marked by an exhibition that ran throughout July, and closes on August 5. Incorporated in 1988, Definitely Superior is a nationally recognized artist-run centre that promotes and celebrates emergent contemporary arts. The gallery, which engages around 2,000 artists annually, was founded by renowned Anishinaabekwe artist Rebecca Belmore and arts advocate Lynne Sharman, with the support of fewer than 10 other individuals who signed on to form the gallery’s initial board of directors. Definitely Superior continues to mandate the support of contemporary art and artists through workshops,

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lectures, screenings, street art, performance, mentorship, and much more. This summer also marks the 10th anniversary of Definitely Superior’s recognition as the Arts Organization Award Laureate at the Ontario Premier’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts. Since then, the gallery has furthered their outreach work through projects such as Urban Infill, The Hunger, and Derelicte, which have become annual community-endorsed events. External performance arts project Random Acts of Poetry and street art collective Die Active have encouraged community exploration of the arts and promoted further learning and exploration by engaging not only active and emerging artists, but also other community members through audience and discussion. When asked about DefSup’s proudest achievement in the last 35 years, current executive and artistic director David

Karasiewicz laughs. “That we’re still here,” he says. He notes the constant struggle for everyone in the arts to maintain funding, and adds that the gallery has many to thank for their survival. Firstly, Definitely Superior is grateful to the artists who have exhibited and participated in their gallery and programming. “The artists are the ones that are impacting what we do,” he says. Definitely Superior is also supported by four levels of funding: federally by the Canada Council of the Arts; provincially by the Ontario Arts Council; municipally by the City of Thunder Bay (who notably provided emergency funding to the gallery to assist with their unprecedented move in 2020); and by community fundraising and membership donations. Their website boasts a tremendous list of local businesses, organizations, and individuals that continue to support their work. Moving forward, Karasiewicz states that the

TheArts  The Hunger, one of DefSup’s signature events in the downtown north core

Chad Kirvan

Brent Linton

 A performance project from DefSup’s Random Acts Of Poetry

 Wearable art at Derelicte

 Performance at The Hunger

“The artists are the ones that are impacting what we do.”

Flashback Photo

Check Definitely Superior out online at definitelysuperior.com and follow them on Facebook at facebook. com/defsup.

InCompass Photography

future lies in the hands of a new wave of artists. While this means nothing is set in stone, the gallery’s mission statement for the future emphasizes an advancement in programming initiatives, particularly through fostering continued and interconnected learning, inclusivity, and exploration between students, professionals, and emerging artists alike. Thanks to the support of funders, the board of directors, and every artist and patron that comes through its doors, the future of Definitely Superior Art Gallery remains bright.

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TheArts

Stitching from the Heart

Celebrated Quilter Ana Paula Brasil Opens New Westfort Studio Story by Amy Sellors, Photos by Shannon Lepere

 Ana Paula Brasil in her new Westfort studio

na Paula Brasil has fallen in love with Thunder Bay, which is wonderfully good fortune for Thunder Bay. Born in Brazil, she is a celebrated textile artist, fabric designer, and quilter who has exhibited her work worldwide. On June 9, Brasil opened her studio in the heart of Westfort Village, providing a showcase for her fabrics, her quilts, and her expertise. Her studio is part classroom, part store, part workshop, and part gallery. Filled with fabric, sewing machines of all sizes, pattern books, paint, and yarn, it’s designed by a woman who loves to be busy. She always has sewing, quilting, and yarn projects on the go. “I always have to do something with my hands. Crocheting is the first thing my grandma taught me when I was five,” she says. While running smoothly now, the launch of her new studio didn’t quite go to plan. Brasil signed her lease in November 2022, but before she could move in, the pipes froze and caused extensive damage. On opening day at noon, the contractors were still working, but at 7 pm, her studio celebrated its grand

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opening. Through it all, Brasil remained undaunted, knowing that “finally, I found my place in the world.” “Everything I learned about sewing, my grandma taught me,” says Brasil. And while her work is certainly inspired by lessons from her grandmother, her pieces are modern and unexpected. “Every day I create something amazing. Every day I wake up and paint the world,” she says. An art lover as much as an artist, Brasil is inspired by the great painters of the world. She takes the painting techniques she sees on the canvas and translates them to fabric, ultimately inventing her own. To date, she has 11 personal techniques that she uses and teaches, allowing her to work faster and create more in less time. One of the reasons Brasil’s quilts are so unique is the colours. They’re bold, they’re saturated, they stand out. Not able to find what she needed in stores, she began designing her own fabrics, and the process is quite remarkable. Each fabric is part of a collection, and each collection starts with a portrait of a person who inspires her. She paints the face in watercolour to create the design, then repaints

the image in acrylic to create a richer colour palate. She uses professional-quality Copic markers to cement the colours, and then transfers the work to her computer. From the original image, she builds a collection of prints and solids that all work together, which means when she and her students create quilts, they’re not wasting time matching fabric swatches. They have everything they need to start quilting. She even has matching thread. Brasil’s studio is as much a workspace as a gallery. With her degree in fine arts, she has traveled the world, teaching and creating, and her personal stock of fabrics are imbued with memories of her travels. “I remember when I went to China, when I went to England. My scraps talk about my quilt history,” she says. Her creations are incredibly personal. “When

we work, your brain never knows the difference between what you have in your hands, the machine or the pencil, the machine or the brush, the machine or the ink. Your brain creates something,” she says. “The tool you use is not important.” The other side of the studio is part store and part classroom. She teaches adults and children both in person and online. She particularly loves teaching kids as it reminds her of all the lessons her grandma taught her, and she recognizes the value of learning crafting techniques at a young age. Along with her studio, she’s established a booth upstairs at the Thunder Bay Country Market to showcase her work and to sell bags, totes, and aprons made with her signature fabrics. While Brasil has shown her quilts in exhibitions all over the world, she’s never had space to show her work like this before,

outside of an exhibition on permanent display. Brasil’s quilts are a testament to finding your own way. Her fabrics and techniques can help you create a quilt that’s exactly to your taste. Her machines, her books, and her expertise are all in her studio to help inspire, educate, and create. Brasil feels so warmly welcomed by the quilting community and Westfort, and she’s eager to share her artistry with us all. Moving to Thunder Bay has been an “amazing opportunity to organize my life and see everything properly,” she says. “I feel blessed.” To learn more, visit canadapaulabrasil.ca or find Brasil at her studio at 136 Frederica Street West, or the Thunder Bay Country Market.

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A Master at Work

SAND A THOURDS WO

Award-Winning Photographer Susan Dykstra Captures Evocative Northwestern Landscapes Story by Bonnie Schiedel, Photos by Susan Dykstra

or master photographer Susan Dykstra, a hike always means a camera in hand. Since the late 90s, the Neebing photographer has been turning her lens on the coasts, forests, fields, and creatures of Northwestern Ontario, with breathtaking details that seem to convey the qualities of an especially vivid dream. What is it about landscape photography that appeals to her? “I think just the beauty of it,” says Dykstra. “People just don’t notice it. When I hike or I get up early in the morning for sunrise or sunset, it’s just very quiet and peaceful and nobody else is around; you’re in your own zone. And the beauty of it is really not noticeable till you capture it.” S e l f - t a u g h t t h ro u g h

 A Maple Forest

 Bonsai Tree in Lake Superior  Dorion Tower Lookout

 Winter in the Valley

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 Creek Side  Rock Climbers Delight

 The Aurora Borealis

books, plus a grounding in the basics at a night course at Confederation College, Dykstra stuck to analog slide photography for the first few years of her work because early digital cameras couldn’t match the sharp clarity of slides. Around 2005, she made the switch. “Each year, they came out with a better camera and a better camera and a better camera, and finally digital surpassed film and slides,” she says. Soon, her hobby evolved into a full-time pursuit, including opening her Neebing shop, the Window Light Photo Gallery. After the quiet COVID years coincided with her agency partner launching a website where her photos can be purchased, she opted to close the gallery last summer to free up more time for her

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 The Great Grey Owl

visible in an exact location, so you can capture, say, the moon flanked by two sculptural trees. “I think it’s something that a photographer can’t do without,” she says. Her perennial favourite subject is Lake Superior, from Duluth to Sault Ste. Marie, and fortunately, given the length of the season, her favourite time of year to shoot is winter. “No bugs!” she laughs.

Izabela Pioro

photography. (Plus, she now has room for a golf simulator in the former gallery space!) A recent project has been converting two of her older cameras to infrared, which she uses for black and white photography. (Infrared wavelengths are longer than those of visible light, so you can capture images differently.) Before, she says, it was pointless to photograph landscapes on a bright sunny day because she was never happy with the quality of the work. “With the infrared, those are the conditions you need; you need bright sunny days. All the leaves are white, they glow. The infrared is just beautiful.” For fellow photographers, Dykstra recommends two key location planning apps: PhotoPills and The Photographer’s Ephemeris, to provide detailed information about when sun or moon will be rising or setting and will be

 Photographer Susan Dykstra

 Slate River Canola Fields

 Wind Blown by Lake Superior

To see more of Susan Dykstra’s work, visit her website at wlpgallery.com or find her on Instagram @susieq2u.  The Snowy Owl

 Infrared Tree

Tech Specs

Canon Mark IV Canon L series lenses from 16 to 400mm

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Outdoor

Bananas for Bicycles

A Hike and Bike Grind to the Top of Kama Cliffs Story and photos by Darren McChristie

iding a bicycle is one of the most energyefficient ways a human can travel. One medium banana (approximately 100 calories) can power a cyclist for almost four kilometres, but the same amount of energy would only power a car for 85 metres. Cycling can be up to five times more efficient than walking, which is probably why I hate pushing my bike with a passion. Despite this, I found myself, along with my partner Michelle, hiking our doublesuspension mountain bikes uphill over roots and rocks on a hazy summer afternoon in July. Our destination: the spectacular view from the top of Kama Cliffs overlooking Nipigon Bay at the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area. Built and maintained by the Singletrack Society Trails

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Association, the Kama Cliffs Trail is located 25 kilometres east of Nipigon along Highway 17 and half a kilometre west of the Jackpine River Bridge. Parking is located just after the entrance of Kama Bay Road. After unloading our bikes, we crossed the highway and travelled left on an old road and found the trailhead just past the billboard. First impressions are everything, and all indications were this was going to be a steep, technical climb. The trail was well marked, but overgrown in sections as it climbed 190 metres up through a mature forest. We were able to ride without dismounting for most of the climb; however one steep section was not rideable and forced us to shoulder our bikes and carry them up and over large boulders. Although the climb was under a kilometre long, the pitch was steep and

physically demanding. Once we reached the top, the trail leveled off, but the unrelenting rocks and roots required all of our attention. The trail twisted and turned, eventually leading to a flat rocky exposed viewpoint providing a spectacular view of Kama Point jutting out into Nipigon Bay, over 200 metres below. The lake was silvery blue and whitecaps were building in the bay. Visible to the west were the islands of Nipigon Bay and the town of Red Rock. To the east, at over 382 metres, was the peak of Mount St. Ignace and the surrounding islands in the National Marine Conservation Area. The lookout was the perfect spot for a snack and to soak in the view before completing the rest of the loop, which only the most skilled riders will be able to complete without

dismounting. We rode with our seats lowered which helped us navigate tight corners and steep drops. Just when we felt we had enough, the trail conditions improved and we eventually found ourselves on an exhilarating descent back down to the highway. The Kama Cliffs Trail is definitely one of the most technical, if not punishing, mountain bike climbs in the region, so don’t feel like a failure if you need to push

your bike. And maybe the mounting frustration will tempt you to throw your bike over the cliff when you get to the top, but stop. Take a deep breath. Enjoy the fruits of your labour—a panoramic view of Lake Superior that will soothe your soul and calm your mind. And remember, you’ll appreciate the efficiency of the bicycle as you bomb back downhill, powered by the banana you ate at the top.

Outdoor

The Singletrack Society Trails Association was established in 2011 as a not-for-profit organization to promote, develop, manage, and maintain a variety of multi-use recreational trails in the Nipigon area. They include the Aces & Eights Trail, the Crew Trail, and the Kama Cliffs Trail. Recreational activities on the trails include hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and snowshoeing. For more information find them on Facebook or check out Trailforks or WAYfinder Trails online.

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CityScene

Superior Sailmakers

WALL SPACE

Sails on all The Great Lakes

Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photos by Darren McChristie

ave De Jong has been actively sailing for years, and when it was time for new sails for his boat in 2016, he decided to try to create some himself. He bought a small sewing machine, some software, and a plotter. “I like to do things

with my hands instead of buying stuff,” says De Jong, who creates sails as a side hustle to his profession as a pilot. He says his first sail took a better part of a year to create because it was a bit of a learning curve studying the software and design process

during his spare time. De Jong also consults with a third-generation sail designer in New Zealand. Once his sails were on his boat, people from the Thunder Bay Yacht Club dropped by with orders, and now he says he has a lot of

 De Jong taught himself the software program for designing sails during his spare time. He works closely with a third-generation sailmaker in New Zealand.

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 Sailmaker Dave De Jong on a large table where designs come to life in his 40 x 25-foot shop in semi-rural Thunder Bay.  A grommet press is essential for the sail-making process.

CityScene

 A plotter draws the seam lines on the cloth so that when the panel shapes are joined together, it creates a curve to allow for proper maximum draft.

local customers. “It has helped me be more social and step out of my comfort zone,” he says. Sails from Superior Sailmakers are on all Great Lakes right now. De Jong’s love for and in-depth understanding of sailing—he spent 2012 living in a boat with his wife and four kids sailing to the Bahamas—combined

 A low-stretch leech line is used to help decrease fluttering, which in turn helps slow down the breaking down of resin in the fabric of the sail.

with his attention to detail and desire to work with his hands, has resulted in beautifully crafted, locally made sails used all over the world, including by a local man who built his own boat and will use De Jong’s sails to do a solo Atlantic crossing. To learn more, check out superiorsailmakers.com.

 De Jong sews three-inch wide edges up the leech with flat sailing tape for extra strength. On average, it takes about 30-35 hours to make a sail.

 A Long Arm Industrial Zig Zag sewing machine, which is used for creating a 34-foot mainsail, using a four-point zig zag technique using three stitches between points.  A storm sail is created from an extremely heavy orange cloth to ensure high visibility and to help steer in high winds and stormy conditions.

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CityScene

Children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Thunder Bay at the CLE’s Special Needs Day in 2022

The Canadian Lakehead Exhibition’s Special Needs Day

Program Provides Free Entry and More to Clients from Over 40 Organizations By Nancy Saunders

he Canadian Lakehead Exhibition’s carnival rides, bustling midway, live music and entertainment, and family-friendly activities are a highlight of the summer for many Thunder Bay and area residents. Of the over 70,000 people in attendance at last year’s five-day event, 1,400 were participants of the CLE’s Special Needs Day that provides free admission, rides, and refreshments to people experiencing financial, physical, and other barriers. Through Special Needs Day, the CLE promotes and celebrates social inclusion and opportunities for active social participation. Al Law, who has volunteered with the CLE in various capacities for close to 40 years, has been instrumental in growing Special Needs Day to involve over 40 local organizations. “It started with 150 to 200 people. I’ve

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been doing it for 15-plus years, expanding the program. […] Seeing the kids’ faces and how they react is just overwhelming,” he says. “The CLE is one of those rites of passage that we all looked forward to as kids,” says Danielle Bobinksi, coordinator of mental health services at June Steeve-Lendrum Family Resource Centre. Bobinski’s clients are single women aged 16 to 24 who are pregnant or parenting. “The CLE is historic in Thunder Bay. By the CLE giving free tickets to the women and kids here, the moms can take that off their plate,” she says. “They’re able to go and do something that, when you’re not low income, it’s not a big thing. But when you’re sitting in a situation of low income, trying to get educated, trying to parent, that becomes a huge stressor for them: ‘How am I

going to provide this normal activity to my child?’ This way, they just know that each year they get tickets; each year their kids can go. They can just provide this beautiful day to their kids with no stress. It’s awesome.” Alice Bellavance, CEO of Brain Injury Services of Northern Ontario (BISNO), says they have 47 participants between the ages of 25 and 45 who attend Special Needs Day. “[It] is certainly something that [our clients] look forward to and actively participate in,” she says. Of the people who live in BISNO’s 30 assisted living spaces, 75% aren’t from Thunder Bay. “They’re from Kenora or Sioux Lookout or Fort Frances or from one of the northern remote [communities], but they have to move here to get the service,” explains Bellavance. “I know that through some

of them from those smaller communities talking about the CLE, it has incentivized people from those communities to come to Thunder Bay to go to the CLE as well.” Lee-Ann Skirving, program director at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Thunder Bay, says the CLE’s Special Needs Day has become “a staple” in their programming. “It’s been over 25 years that we’ve been going, maybe closer to 30. We usually have 100 people go and this year we asked for 120 tickets because we have more kids. We can’t believe our relationship with the CLE. It’s been amazing.” “Special Needs Day is so important for so many agencies,” Skirving continues. “Some of the kids have never gone to the CLE, and their only opportunity to go is with us. A family might be able to afford

for their kid to go to the CLE, but they’re working, and they don’t have the extra money to bring their whole family. We’ve done really well at trying to level the playing field for everybody: all the kids that could afford to go and are in our program are going; but all the kids that can’t necessarily afford to go are going too. There’s no difference and nobody knows.” “All the kids come back and they’re excited,” Bobinski says. “They’ll roll into the program with tons of stories. ‘I did this and I went here and I tried this and I saw this!’ They’re just so happy.” This year’s CLE family fair takes place August 9–13. For more information, visit cle.on.ca.

Take it in Strides Suicide Prevention Run

CityScene

Honouring Those Who Have Been Lost Story by Emily Turner, Photo by Connor Remus

ater this summer, the Thunder Bay community will be invited to come together to honour the lives of those lost to suicide every year in Canada. The Take it in Strides Suicide Prevention Run is a 5-or 10-kilometre race at Boulevard Lake Park inspired by the death of local youth Joey Deschamps. Founded and co-organized by Deschamps’s long-time friend Connor Remus, who turned to running as a healthy way of processing Deschamps’s death, this charitable event is a way to bring together everyone affected by suicide and to demonstrate its wide-reaching impact. In addition to the run, this event also offers a 3-kilometre walk. Remus says he and his co-organizers hope the event will draw attention to the various mental health supports in the city and spread awareness of suicide prevention. All proceeds will go to the local chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Children’s Centre Foundation Thunder Bay. “I really want it be a supportive cause for people who are either battling things on their own or know someone who is, or for people who have been touched by suicide,” says Remus. “It’s a way to memorialize them.” According to Statistics Canada, suicide is a leading cause of death in this nation. Every year, approximately 4,500 Canadians die by self-harm. Remus and his co-organizers hope

this run can be a way to memorialize those who have been lost and that it will bring people together to mourn in a safe inclusive space. “It seems like everyone has been touched by suicide in some way, or at least knows someone who has,” says Remus. Participants and volunteers are encouraged to contribute to the memorial wall that will be displayed during the event to honour those who have been lost. Since Remus launched this initiative, he has received overwhelming support from many local businesses, such as Fresh Air, Tbaytel, Jones & Associates Insurance, and Copperfin Credit Union, as well as from running groups such as the Thunder Bay Metre Eaters and the Lakehead Running Club. In the weeks leading up to the event, online workshops and training will be offered with the goal of educating people about suicide prevention. The day of the run will begin at 9 am with opening ceremonies, including keynote speeches happening from 11 am to noon, and the runs and walk will last from noon to 3 pm. The day concludes at 5 pm after the closing ceremonies. The event takes place September 10. Participants can sign up as individuals or in teams. Learn more and register for your spot at takeitinstridesrun.com.

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CityScene

Stuff We Like

1 Border Run Cream Ale Dawson Trail Craft Brewery 1181 Golf Links Road Cold beer on a hot August afternoon— what’s not to love? Bring the beverage everyone will enjoy with Border Run Cream Ale by Dawson Trail Craft Brewery. Light and smooth but packed with body and flavour, this is one beer every host should have in their fridge. Available in singles and packs of four.

For Gifting the Host

By Kelsey Raynard

Summer is the season for socializing. Dinner parties, family reunions, birthdays, barbecues— chances are you have at least one of these events in your summer calendar. Are you going to show up to these events fashionably late? Possibly. Are you going to show up to these events empty-handed? Never! No matter what you have planned for August, make sure you are contributing to the festivities with great, local gifts any party host would love. Here is Stuff We Like for Gifting the Host.

$3.10 per can

Summertime Picnic Candle

$25.80–51.60

Waxxed Candle Co. 16 Cumberland Street North Surprise the host of your next gettogether with a candle from Waxxed Candle Co. For a limited time, these candles come in a variety of irresistible summer scents like paloma, limoncello, and even twin cone (hello Merla Mae!). Made with natural coconut wax, cotton wicks, and high quality fragrance and essential oils, all Waxxed candles are available in 4 oz and 8 oz jars.

$12–22

3 Water Floatie Lake of the Woods Brewing Co. lowbrewco.com Visiting a friend’s camp this August? Leave them with a gift they can use all summer long: a floatie by Lake of the Woods Brewing Company. At 72 x 55 inches, this inflatable lounger fits two people and is even outfitted with two drink holders to maximize relaxation on the water. Just don’t forget your swim suit!

$39.95 5

4 Fresh Pasta Salad Kit The Pasta Shoppe Goods & Co. Market, 251 Red River Road Goodbye boring potlucks, hello fresh pasta salad! The host of your next barbecue is sure to love a fresh pasta salad kit by The Pasta Shoppe. Available in two flavours (creamy dill pickle or classic macaroni), these salad kits come with fresh pasta, fresh veggies, housemade dressing, and cooking instructions. Bon appetit!

5 Charcuterie Board Charkuu 102 Goods & Co. Market, 251 Red River Road Charcuterie boards are often the highlight of a dinner party, and for good reason. Wow the host in your life with a charcuterie board from charcuterie masters Charkuu 102. Each board is packed with local goods, including a variety of meats, cheeses, olives, fruits, and more. Available for pickup at their location inside Goods & Co. Market.

$Various

6 Mason Jar Posy Bouquet Thuja Floral Design 285 Bay Street Nothing says “thank you” like a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Show the host of your next party your appreciation with a mason jar posy by Thuja Floral Design. Made with a curated selection of fresh flowers, each mason jar posy is unique (and they make the perfect centrepiece). Available for both pick-up and delivery.

$35–45

7 For the Love of Local Gift Basket

George’s Market and Celebrations 14 Balsam Street Go big or go home with a For the Love of Local gift basket by George’s Market. Packed with an impressive assortment of goodies, this basket is the perfect way to showcase the richness and diversity of Thunder Bay's locally sourced ingredients and handcrafted products. Available in small, medium, and large baskets for parties of all sizes.

$74.99–149.99

DeBruin’s Greenhouse Living Basil 8

Thunder Bay Country Market 425 Northern Avenue If the host of your next party has a green thumb, surprise them with a living basil plant from DeBruin’s Greenhouse. Sold with the root still attached, this fragrant bunch of herbs will stay fresh for much longer than their grocery store counterparts and can even be repotted to keep growing; it truly is the gift that keeps on giving.

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Managing cash ﬂow efﬁciently

Managing cash ﬂow efﬁciently Managing cash

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Chris Baldi, Associate Consultant Chris Baldi, Associate Heather McLeod CFP, RISConsultant Senior Financial Consultant

Lise Anderson, Executive Assistant Group Financial Services Inc. Lise Anderson, Executive Assistant Chris Baldi, Associate Consultant Marie Baldi Investors RRC, Executive Consultant 807.345.6363 l Marie.Baldi@ig.ca

Lise Anderson, Executive Assistant Keith Anderson CFP, Senior Financial Consultant Investors Group Financial Services Inc. Inc. Investors Group Financial Services Cody Atkinson CFP, Senior Financial Consultant 807.345.6363 l Marie.Baldi@ig.ca 807.345.6363 l Marie.Baldi@ig.ca Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. Group Services Heather McLeod CFP, RIS Senior Financial Consultant © Investors Investors Group Inc. 2019Financial INV2090MA_E (11/2019)Inc. Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM by Financial Inc.©and licensed to itsInc. subsidiary corporations. Trademarks, IG Wealth Management, are owned IGM Financial Inc. andGroup licensed to2019 its subsidiary corporations. 807.345.6363 |including Marie.Baldi@ig.ca Investor INV2090MA_E (11/2019) Chris Baldi, Associate Consultant © Investors Group Inc. 2019 (11/2019) © Investors Group Inc. INV2090MA_E 2019 INV2090MA_E (11/2019) Lise Anderson, Executive Assistant Investors Group Financial Services Inc. 807.345.6363 l Marie.Baldi@ig.ca

2023 - NIPIGON - AUGUST 19 & 20

Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. © Investors Group Inc. 2019 INV2090MA_E (11/2019)

Facebook: nipigonblueberryblast

Saturday August 19 Shy-Anne Hovorka

Noon to 5pm Vendors

The Boondocks

Baking

11/17 Band

Crafts

Pancake Breakfast Saturday morning 9 am - 1 pm Nipigon Legion

(Presented by Grace United Church)

Blueberries

blueberryblast.ca

Sunday August 20 Don Wright Jim n’ I Punjabi Dance Group Dorion Band Rebel Spirit

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SEASON 63 Your Community. Your Music.

Get your tickets NOW! TBSO.CA 56

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CityScene

Storage Solutions A Look at Cannabis Packaging

BIS CANNA N M U L CO

Story and photo by Justin Allec

remember with my very first Ontario Cannabis Store order, I bought a couple of one-gram strains. While it was a bit of a thrill to legally get cannabis in the mail, I was surprised by the amount of plastic used in the packaging. Since then, the thrill hasn’t really abated, and I still find the packaging overkill. How much plastic does a gram of cannabis need? Of course, the amount of packaging used for cannabis isn’t out of line with what you would find in the grocery store, where shrink-wrapped cucumbers and lettuce are the norm. And cannabis is a controlled substance, which means some special rules. The federal Cannabis Act and

Health Canada require that packaging meet their criteria— for one, it’s supposed to protect against accidental consumption by making the packaging difficult for children to open, as well as not advertising the contents in any appealing way (that’s why there aren’t pictures of buds on the labels). As well, the packaging must keep the product as fresh as possible, which means that plastic, significantly lighter and stronger than glass, becomes the material of choice. If you’re purchasing cannabis regularly, you may have a stockpile of empty containers that you aren’t sure what to do with. Do you just throw them out? Or are there other options for your

used packaging? Following the ol’ reducereuse-recycle triangle, reducing cannabis packaging is the first thing to consider. Consider shopping brands that use less plastic, recycled plastic, or reflect other efforts to reduce packaging, such as vacuumedsealed bags. If you’re not sure which brands to look for, talk to your local budtender. As well, buying larger quantities sometimes works, as many producers use “one size fits all” containers for their cannabis products, so buying more means less waste. If you’re trying to reuse your containers, you’re fighting against that pungent cannabis smell. Even a harsh scrub won’t do too much—the cannabis

has permeated the plastic completely. Uses around the house are then kind of limited, but they come in handy in the garage or shed for storing small items like nuts, bolts, and seeds. One idea I’ve yet to try is to use the old packaging for storing your homegrown buds and potentially gifting it to friends. Oh, and if you are using these containers elsewhere in the house, scratch the label off first. Finally, thanks to Thunder Bay’s expanded recycling program you can now recycle cannabis containers at the curb. Though I’m still not certain about the success of our city’s recycling program, it’s at least an effort in the right direction. If the packaging is #1 through

#7 plastic and thoroughly rinsed, it can be picked up and recycled. Another option is to check with your local store and see if they offer recycling services. For example, both Kia Ora locations have dropoff bins for used packaging and empty vape cartridges that don’t require you to enter the store. If you’re growing your own, then you’re doing even more to combat the scourge of overpackaging, but that option isn’t available to everyone. The next time you go to the store for a restock, maybe consider more than what’s inside the container. As with all our efforts to be greener, it’s small steps that add up to positive change.

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Lunar Moose

CityScene AL GO LOC R E D N THU TRY N U O C BAY T E K MAR

Story by Nicole Pocion, Photos by Anna Buske

 The Lunar Moose at the Thunder Bay Country Market

 Artist and owner of Lunar Moose, Ellie Törnblom

 A variety of jewelry at Lunar Moose

 Törnblom (in background) along with assorted earrings and paintings

Find Lunar Moose on Instagram @lunar.moose.treasures and visit the storefront every Wednesday and Saturday at the Thunder Bay Country Market. Unique pieces are also available at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, the Thunder Bay Museum, and Ungalli Clothing Co.

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arlier this spring, the Thunder Bay Country Market welcomed Lunar Moose as a new vendor. Ellie Törnblom, artist and owner of the unique handmade jewelry business, shares her excitement to be a part of the local market. “I love being here,” she says. “There are just so many different talented people here to celebrate." Törnblom started Lunar Moose before the pandemic, selling her creations online and at local craft fairs. The Thunder Bay native has been a part of the local artisan community for a while, working at Global Experience, painting commissions inspired by children's drawings, and being the president of Artisans Northwest. Recognizing the potential of selling jewelry, Törnblom came up with the unique idea of using paper to construct earrings. She started by making hoop earrings out of paper through a fine-tuned lamination process. She even found a way to utilize the scrap paper. “Every time I cut the hoops, there would be a little dot in the middle, so I started making studs,” she says. Growing up in Thunder Bay, Törnblom always enjoyed being outdoors, and finds artistic inspiration in nature. ”One day, I went for a walk, and I found a wasp’s nest on the ground," she says. "And I noticed how [the wasp’s nest] is basically paper […], so I thought, ‘Gee, let’s see if I can use this to make earrings.’” Since wasps in the region abandon their nests every fall and build new ones in the spring, using them to make earrings does not harm the wasps. Next, Törnblom expanded to using birch bark in her jewelry designs. "My earrings are all made with paper, including nature’s papers," she says. Lunar Moose combines Törnblom’s love for nature and art. "For me, I see [the jewelry] as minisculptures," she explains. "I still get to play with colour and shape, and it's all those artistic things that I love." Törnblom describes her creations as "wearable pieces of art" that combine nature with minimalistic function. In addition to earrings, she also makes bracelets and necklaces.

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Meet the 2023 Summer Company Students The Summer Company program is a local and regional funding initiative tailored for ambitious young individuals, offering them a unique chance to launch and operate their own summer businesses. By participating in this program, budding entrepreneurs are granted a $3,000 financial aid package to kickstart their ventures. Additionally, they gain access to comprehensive business training, engaging workshops, and invaluable guidance through business coaching and mentoring sessions, all facilitated by esteemed local community business leaders.

Jase’s Designs Jase is the creator and owner of Jase’s Designs, making custom artwork creating what the customer would like, and the applying the artwork to custom items such as shirts, mugs, canvas and much more.

Mliss' Makings

@Jase’s Designs

Mliss is the owner and operator of Mliss’ Makings, a small cut flower farm outside of Kakabeka Falls. This year Mliss is offering a ten-week bouquet subscription with the bouquets being delivered right to her customers door once a week.

Mowing the Way

mlissmakings.com

Sarah is the owner of Mowing the Way, a locally owned and operated business providing yard and lawncare maintenance such as lawn mowing and trimming, planting, garden and weed control, spring/fall prep and clean up, mulching, and dethatching.

mowingtheway@gmail.com

Sarah’s Personal Training Sarah is the owner and trainer behind Sarah’s Personal Training, an Atikokan based small business that provides individualized exercise programs and coaching to members of the community. Sarah has obtained her certificate for personal training and understands the importance of physical activity.

@sarahsfitnessandnutrition

gotothunderbay.ca/summercompany 60

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NAMA Candles Mariyah is the owner of NAMA Candles, a locally owned small business that specializes in crafting organic soybased scented candles. All her candles come with a wax embed, which are delicately moulded in the workshop and placed on these candle.

Simply Aesthetics

@nama.candles

Hope is the owner and technician behind Simply Aesthetics, a new start-up offering certified full body waxing services after completing training at Wrapture Beauty Academy in Winnipeg. Hope offers services Tuesdays from 9am-7pm and Fridays 9am-7pm through The Aesthetics and Laser Clinic.

Love for Dogs

@simplyaaesthetics

Avery is the owner of Love for Dogs, providing a veterinaryapproved superfood dog food topper, a powder added to your dog's food to provide extra nutrients and missing ingredients to the dog’s diet. These ingredients combined provide dogs with extra fibre, antioxidants, calcium, and vitamins to let your dog live a happier, healthier, and longer life.

@lovefordogsfood

Rancheros del Sur Rodrigo is the owner and cook of Rancheros del Sur, making real Mexican food, using traditional recipes, natural ingredients, and real Mexican flavours. Rodrigo is taking orders over the phone 807-285-8203 or by email.

Superior Senses

rancherostbay@gmail.com

Char is the owner and creator of Superior Senses, a locally owned business providing candles, soaps, body scrubs and other wellness products.

@superior_senses

gotothunderbay.ca/summercompany The Walleye

CityScene

Time to Celebrate

Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association to Hold First Matsuri By Pat Forrest Sarah Umakoshi

 Kaminari Wan Taiko performing at the Da Vinci Centre  Kaminari Wan Taiko in Japan with founder Dr. Takafumi Hirose

 The Fuji Dancers

re you looking for a great matsuri? Matsuri is the Japanese word for a festival or celebration, and there will be lots to celebrate at the Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association’s (LJCA) first-ever summer matsuri taking place later this month at the West Thunder Community Centre on Edward Street South. LJCA Treasurer Angela Foreman says that the members felt that the festival was long overdue. “A lot of the other larger cities in Canada with a fair-sized Japanese population tend to have a festival like this and they are well received,” she says. “We thought that Thunder Bay would also enjoy having one. We want to share our culture and what better way to do that than through a matsuri?” There will be food and merchandise vendors and a white elephant sale, along with crafts, games, photo ops, martial arts and mochitsuki (rice pounding) demonstrations, and performances, including the Fuji Dancers, who do a traditional style of dance called bon odori that is rarely seen outside of Thunder Bay, even in Japan. As well, Kaminari Wan Taiko will be drumming up some excitement in the parking lot prior to the festival, and will also perform inside. Founded in 2011 by Dr. Takafumi Hirose, Kaminari Wan Taiko is Thunder Bay's only Japanese Taiko drum group. Taiko was originally performed on Japanese battlefields as a tool of intimidation, and its sound has often been compared to

the sound of a thunderstorm. Looking and sounding like both a musical performance and a martial arts presentation, it’s an exciting and dynamic art form. Hirose was teaching at Lakehead University and fell in love with Thunder Bay. His gift to the community was a set of drums complete with a Taiko group that travelled here to teach the art to some LJCA members. It is, says Foreman, his legacy. “He was an incredible individual who really created the public face of the Japanese community in Thunder Bay with his gift of drums and the mentors who visited to teach our drummers,” she says. The food available will have an Asian focus to it, including Filipino, Chinese, and Japanese. There will also be traditional festival food and Japanese desserts. Vendors will be Asian and/or will offer Asian-themed goods for sale. With about 120 members out of a population of approximately 200, the Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association is a strong organization, and its members are excited about this event. “We’re very hopeful that the event is well received and enthusiastically attended by Thunder Bay and the region,” says Foreman. Summer matsuri will be held Saturday, August 19 from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Admission is free. Opening ceremonies take place at 5 pm. You can follow the LJCA on Instagram and Facebook.

“We’re very hopeful that the event is well received and enthusiastically attended by Thunder Bay and the region.” 62

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Growth Spurt

Northern Lights School Seeking Waldorf Accreditation By Matt Prokopchuk

he board chair of a private, not-for-profit alternative school that has been running in Thunder Bay for the past six years says the organization continues to grow, and has its eyes on Waldorf Education certification. “There seems to be a lot of interest now,” Arlene Thorn says of the increase in the number of students enrolling in the Northern Lights School, which currently uses a Waldorf Education-inspired curriculum. “There’s been kind of more of a visibility because we have the Redwood [Park Church] location.” The school was founded in 2017, using the North McIntyre Recreation Centre as its location, and starting with a handful of students. Those numbers fluctuated during the COVIDrestriction years, Thorn says, adding that enrollment currently sits at 21 students from kindergarten to Grade 5, and that she’s expecting those numbers to grow. The school continues to expand its upper grade level based on the advancement of the first cohort. They recently moved into rooms rented from Redwood Park Church—itself the former site of Redwood Park School—and offer outdoor programming at the Tapiola Nature Centre, which they purchased in 2020. Since its inception, the school has used a Waldorfinspired curriculum; Thorn says they’re now taking steps to become a designated

school under that system, specifically working with their existing teachers to get them trained and certified with that model. Waldorf Education was founded in Europe in 1919 with a focus on more experiential and arts-based learning and has spread to thousands of institutions worldwide—Little Lions Waldorf Child and Family Centre has been running daycare programming in the city for decades. Patrick Boileau, who has two children at the school, aged 4 and 6, says he’s happy with the program—specifically how it eschews technology in the curriculum, especially in the early years, and its focus on more individualized learning. “When you’re in a class of 20 or 30 kids, you don’t get those experiences and you don’t get the individual oneon-one,” he says. “So I really got to see how the teachers work directly with the kids to bring out the best in them in various ways, or where they are struggling, to really spend the time one-on-one to correct things.” And Thorn adds that the tech-light curriculum will benefit the students in other ways. “We have so much access to information. We have so many things—AI and so on—that are taking away the need to be human,” Thorn says. “The whole question of AI and technology […] is going to ask us the question ‘How can we have a really humanbased society?’”

 Families dance around the maypole at the Northern Lights School spring festival  Children on the climbing tree at the Friday nature program

Northern Lights School is hosting an open house on August 28 from 4 to 6 pm at the back building of Redwood Park Church. To learn more about the school, visit northernlightsschool.ca.

“So I really got to see how the teachers work directly with the kids to bring out the best in them in various ways, or where they are struggling, to really spend the time one-on-one to correct things.” The Walleye

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Ken and Diane support the Thunder Bay Community Foundation because they care for our community. For over 7 years, the Thunder Bay Community Foundation has continued to provide a legacy to the Keri Chase Foundation by providing assistance to local animal welfare organizations. Since 1971, the Thunder Bay Community Foundation has given out over $7M in grants and student awards in Thunder Bay and District areas. Starting a Fund through the Thunder Bay Community Foundation is easy! To schedule a meeting, please call our office at (807) 475-7279.

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CityScene

Finding Home in History with Cedar and Willow Vintage

D SECONES C N A H C

By Kelsey Raynard

hen you buy secondhand, you’re not only bringing a used piece of furniture or decor into your space—with true appreciation of vintage and thrifted items comes a recognition that each piece brings a unique history and life along with it. This month, we are proud to feature Cedar and Willow Vintage, owned by Aja Mayer, whose love and admiration for vintage housewares brought her into the community of second-hand sellers here in Thunder Bay. Mayer explains that the name of her thrifting business has a special significance from

her childhood. “Cedar and Willow is named after the two streets I grew up on, Cedar Avenue and Willow Place,” she says. However, the connection between vintage decor and home runs even deeper for Mayer. “As a young adult, I moved onto Cedar Avenue and it was the first time I had ever moved in my life; it was hard to leave my childhood home,” she says. “A few days after I moved out, my mom and I were walking around when we saw an estate sale a couple streets over. I found a beautiful china set with gold trim and I was so excited to find it. I took it

home, set it up, and it really helped make our new house feel like a home.” For Mayer (and many other lovers of all things vintage), buying a used piece of furniture or decor brings a sense of hominess with it—each item has a unique life and story that helps to warm and animate a space. As a history major, Mayer says that diving into this history and the significance of each item is one of the best parts of thrifting. As for her aesthetic? “I don’t even know,” she laughs. “Honestly, I pick up things that make me happy and bring me joy. If it makes me super happy, it makes me want to share it.”

Therefore, this month we are featuring a number of unique vintage items from Cedar and Willow that might just make you happy too. On the left, we have a Sadler England 1970s strawberry teapot ($20)—a spot o’ tea, anyone? Below, we have two unique sets of glasses, both perfect for a summer cocktail or mocktail; there is a set of four stackable, smoky grey glasses ($15), and a set of seven 1970s light blue Libbey Roly Poly glasses (only four pictured here; the set of seven is $20). Up top, we have a 2.5-quart Pyrex casserole dish (known as

a 475 to collectors) with lid in pattern “Shenandoah” ($30), guaranteed to last you for many years to come. Next, we have a 1970s Anchor Hocking chip and dip set ($30) for your next patio party. Lastly, we have a complete Primary Color Pyrex set produced in the 1940s ($130 for a true vintage gem) and a small, gold frame ($5). Make sure to follow @cedarandwillowvintage on Instagram for the chance to snag a unique vintage item and to learn more about the historical significance and value of her finds.

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CityScene

With Guy Walter

EYE EYE TO

As told to Matt Prokopchuk, Photo by Lois Nuttall

ook around Thunder Bay, and there’s a good chance Guy Walter has influenced something you’re seeing. Walter is the landscape architect for the City of Thunder Bay and has been in the role since the fall of 2020. He’s currently spearheading—from a design and implementation perspective—the continued development at the waterfront, including an expanded trail network, the rehabilitation of the Centennial Botanical Conservatory, and a number of other large projects. It’s the latest step in a career that’s seen him work all over the world. Walter spoke with The Walleye about how he got into the business, his artistic pursuits outside his work, and his favourite place to walk. The Walleye: What got you into landscape architecture and wanting to pursue this as

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a career? G u y Wa l t e r : I did architectural technology first. I had planned, as a kid pretty much, to be an architect, my whole life. Then I went through architecture school and I decided I wanted a bigger picture. I went back into engineering and I saw that it was even less creative and had even more restrictions. So I decided to go to U of T and do urban design landscape architecture. I’ve been working on the larger scale of landscape architecture, not necessarily what people perceive. The landscapes we see most landscape architects working on, like parks, residential landscapes, things that are very developed in that kind of immediate foreground—I’m looking at large-scale urban renewal master planning for entire cities and regions.

Anything that’s big, that’s where I targeted my landscape architecture and urban design. TW: What is it like for you being on the ground floor of some important legacy projects here in the city, whether it be the rebuilding of the Conservatory or the further development of the waterfront? GW: That was the draw to take this job with the city. I knew how it can be done quite quickly and easily, and then I found out that you can do a lot of things at the city as long as you have people leading it. One other aspect of this expansion at the waterfront, the other project I’m working on, is the renewal of the whole festival area, which is just north of the marina. Right now, I should be putting out an RFP [request for proposal] for a consultant to come in and manage the project. As we run it through,

it’ll probably be a three or four phase project. The move of the performance area where the bandshell would have been, or has been currently, to the other end of the site, flip it around, and create a more accessible site, bring in a new leg of the waterfront trail along that edge, which is more accessible, bring in more boating activity into the water’s edge—it’s quite a few things. Each one of these projects are connected, and I do the drawings, I lay it out, and I figure out how it’s going to work, and it gets built, which is the nice thing—when you can put pen to paper, and hand it to a contractor to actually just build it, which happened at Pool 6—it’s quite rewarding. TW: Tell me about your artwork. GW: I studied fine arts at University of Toronto also. I’ve always tied it to the work I do, both as an artist and as an architect. Anything I’m producing to create for the real world would be part of that element that goes into the

work that I do. It’s completely related to what I do. The latest series, I had an exhibition here in Thunder Bay, and the majority of it I showed in Shanghai in 2017 at a major exhibition there. So I had a small portion of that shown with two new pieces I did since I’ve been back here that are directly related to the evolution of our urban existence, our landscape here in Thunder Bay, which was even a bit more traditional, how those pieces were done. But most of the others come out of the sketches, the designs that I had done for projects all over the world. Then we compiled them kind of like a collage, but they are not a collage in the end, and then developing those to be individual statements or ideas about either ideas in culture or urban design or ecology or something I’m working with. Most of these paintings of the last series were done on mahogany board panels, so some are quite large. TW: Our cover story is about Thunder Bay’s favourite places to walk or hike. What’s yours? GW: I’m a little selfish—I kinda like my backyard. I’ve got four acres right out the back door and my uncle’s my neighbour and my other cousin, we own a fair bit of real estate down my street. Plus, we’ve got a gorgeous old horse trail. It’s a legacy property. It was my grandparents’, and we love it. As long as it’s not too buggy in the spring and early summer, we’re out there all the time with our dogs. It’s a bit of a rail corridor. We’ve got a family of owls right behind us, a nesting pair here as long as I can remember, and we see every generation every year. We’ve got so much wildlife coming through our property because we provide a ton of fruit-bearing shrubs and trees. When you have this kind of resource in a city like Thunder Bay—people ask me why I’m in Thunder Bay, I’m like “well, come to my yard.” This interview has been edited for length and clarity. You can find the expanded interview on our Eye To Eye podcast on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, and more.

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CityScene

This is Thunder Bay Interviews and photos by Leah Morningstar

This month we asked The Walleye readers: Where’s your favourite place to walk or hike around Thunder Bay or the surrounding region? Chuks: I’ve been in Thunder Bay for two years now and I haven’t done too much exploring. But maybe this is the summer I get out and do some hiking!

Phil: It’s the Cascades. I love it because it’s a conservation area and it’s important that people aren’t allowed to forage or take anything from the land. I also love the swimming and running up and down the Canadian Shield.

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Serenity and Ezri: We haven’t done too much hiking, but we’ve both been to the top of Mount McKay and it’s pretty amazing.

Abi: I think Lost Falls; it’s by the Tournament Centre. You can hike it in the winter or the summer, or any time actually. If you hike to the top of the falls, there’s a beautiful lookout area overlooking the city.

Adam: It’s gotta be Casques Isles. It’s between Rossport and Terrace Bay; the total length of the trail is 52 kilometres. I love the variable landscapes, from nice inland areas and mountains, to lots of shore and Lake Superior views. There’s even ancient pictographs.

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Fort William Historical Park

CityScene

 Mitchell Seguin (middle in top hat) in a canoe at Fort William Historical Park

The Tinsmith

 Fort William Historical Park tinsmith Mitchell Seguin at work

G BRIDGINST A THE P

By Kris Ketonen

the tinware. “If people notice something in a building is broken or missing or so rusty that it needs to be replaced, they’ll come to me with it,” he says. “I stock the stuff for the gift shop, so any tinware items in there, like large and small tin cups, the tin lanterns, candlesticks.” “And then finally, I am responsible as well for tinsmithing programs and workshops.”

Fort William Historical Park

fun it was, how much I would enjoy it. Specifically, there was a trades area there that she said would really suit me.” Then, in the summer of 2017, Seguin was looking for a job, and his mother suggested he give the Fort a try. It’s safe to say it was the right move. “I’ve been there every summer since,” Seguin says. “I really took a liking to it as a student in the trades area there. Tinsmithing, specifically, was always the building I wanted to be in. I became really, really good friends with the previous tinsmith, who taught me a lot. When the position became available when he moved on to something else, it was just kind of right time, right place. I was one of the few people that knew how to do it.” These days, Seguin portrays a tinsmith from Montreal on the historic site, and maintains all

For more information, please visit fwhp.ca.

Fort William Historical Park

rom building the lanterns for the gift shop to maintaining the tinware around the historical site, Fort William Historical Park tinsmith Mitchell Seguin has plenty to do. Seguin has worked as the Fort’s tinsmith for more than a year, and despite the experience he’s gained, there’s still plenty left to learn. “I always say that it's one of the most easily accessible trades that we do, but one of the hardest ones to master,” he says. Seguin originally joined the Fort about six years ago, and admits he was initially hesitant about the prospect of working there. “I didn't want to apply. I thought dressing up in costume and caring about history that much was weird,” he says. “But I had a sister who worked there the year before, and she kept telling me about how much

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CityScene

Rockin’ Recovery Returns Recovery Day Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Story by Jason Wellwood, Photos by Ryan Hill

“R Crowds gather for live music and stories of recovery at the 2022 Recovery Day celebrations in Thunder Bay

ecovery isn’t sexy,” says Tammy Turnbull, the treasurer of the Thunder Bay Drug Awareness Committee. “People would rather talk about the Kardashians than addiction and recovery.” However, for those who do believe that talking about it is important, September 6 marks the 10th anniversary of National Recovery Day in Canada, and the 10th anniversary of the associated celebration here in Thunder Bay. In fact, according to Turnbull and Stephanie Diebolt, both of the Thunder Bay Drug Awareness Committee—the group that organizes the event—Thunder Bay is unique in that we are the only northern Ontario community that has celebrated every year. The first event was primarily storytelling—people with lived experience telling and celebrating their stories of recovery from addiction—and had an audience of about 150 people. After the first year the event added live music (thus Rockin’ Recovery was born), and those numbers have risen to over 1,000 people at the last live Rockin’ Recovery, and over 3,000 during the online pandemic events. “The stories are what is important,” says Turnbull. “They are so heartfelt and so inspiring, but we wanted to add the music to make the celebration more palatable for people who didn’t understand the recovery aspect of our celebration.”

The ongoing opioid crisis was the impetus for the first event, with the organizers wanting something to help bring awareness and to challenge the stigma of addiction and recovery. They wanted to create a community of compassion and help people understand that addiction isn’t something you can turn off—you can’t suddenly force abstinence for recovery. Recovery is also harm reduction, other coping mechanisms, other humane ways to help people heal what they are trying to numb. “It’s so rewarding to see how things have grown and changed in the last 10 years,” says Diebolt. “The audience members aren’t just other people in recovery, they are families, friends and allies of people in recovery— people who want to come celebrate even though they might not know someone speaking.” Rockin’ Recovery is a familyfriendly event taking place at Marina Park on September 6 from 5 to 8 pm. This year will feature performances by Juno-nominated folk artist Craig Cardiff, as well as local rock cover band V3NOM. This year’s storytellers, to go along with the theme of the 10th anniversary celebrations, will feature some alumni as well as surprise guests. The event is free and will be MC’d by local comedian, musician, and motivational speaker Ron Kanutski.

For more information, find the Thunder Bay Drug Awareness Committee on Facebook at facebook.com/ ThunderBayDrugAwarenessCommittee, or on Instagram @dactbay. A Sobering Podcast is also available wherever you get your podcasts.

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ELIMINATE BOREDOM

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CityScene

Canadian pitcher Allison Schroder at the 2022 Friendship Series between Canada and the U.S. in Thunder Bay

Batter Up!

August Sees Women’s Baseball Championship Qualifiers Come to Thunder Bay By Matt Prokopchuk

hunder Bay will play host to some of the best women’s baseball players in the world this month, as the Group A qualifiers for the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup come to the city. The World Baseball Softball Confederation-sanctioned event is being held in Thunder Bay from August 8 to 13 and will see national teams representing Canada, the United States, Mexico, Hong Kong-China, Korea, and Australia competing. The top two teams from this tournament—plus the top two from another similar one to be held in Japan in September featuring six other nations, and two wild card teams from the combined pool—will compete for the women’s World Cup next

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summer, again, in Thunder Bay. Nick Melchiorre, the president of the Thunder Bay International Baseball Association, which is the local organizing committee, says they’re working with Baseball Canada and the WBSC to host the event, and adds that fans who come out will see some very competitive baseball. “There will be a lot of determination and seriousness,” he says. “I think you’ll see, quite impressively, how good women’s baseball is.” While women have been playing the sport for as long as men, dating back to the mid-1800s, the women’s game has received nowhere near the same exposure over time. For instance, while baseball and

softball have been Olympic sports (neither currently is), only men’s baseball was ever included; on the women’s side, only softball was sanctioned. This year’s World Cup qualifier tournament, Melchiorre says, will feature a number of players who are playing pro ball, and Team USA’s Kelsie Whitmore is currently playing in a professional men’s league south of the border. “You’ll see great talent, and everyone who will be in Thunder Bay are […] dedicated athletes at a high level and they definitely take their craft seriously,” he says. Thunder Bay is no stranger to hosting international baseball tournaments, with the world under-18 men’s

championships played here in 2010 and 2017. Melchiorre says the city was tapped to host this year’s qualifier tournament and next year’s championships after a successful five-game series between the Canadian and American national women’s teams were played in the city last summer. “We’ve had that ongoing relationship with Baseball Canada built up over the decades, that they know they can come to Thunder Bay and that we have Baseball Central and Port Arthur Stadium, which are up to international standards,” he says. “[And] that we can host a tournament in pretty quick turnaround and have a quality product.”

“I think you’ll see, quite impressively, how good women’s baseball is.”

Tickets can be purchased at the gate on game day, and will be $25 for a day pass (three games will be played per day). Individual game tickets will be $15. For more information, check out wbsc.org.

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Music

A Whirlwind Year Aysanabee Sees Continued Success By Roxann Shapwaykeesic

“We booked our whole year, but then when the Junos came, my agent’s inbox was full of all these other offers,” the Juno-nominated artist from Sandy Lake First Nation says. Aysanabee performed “We Were Here” with pow wow drum and singing group Northern Cree at the 2023 Juno Awards in March, where he was

nominated for Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year. After his performance, requests came in from all over the world. “You just almost have no social life because it's always just go, go, go,” he says of the change of pace. Not only will he crisscross Canada this year, he also played at a music festival in Spain, La Mar De Músicas, in July. Among the accolades he’s received so far: he’s been awarded the 2023 Canadian Live Music Awards’ New Touring Artist of the Year, the 2023

INDIES Awards’ Indigenous Artist of the Year, the 2023 Summer Solstice Indigenous Music Awards’ Artistic Video of the Year, Pop/Alternative/ Rock Album of the Year, and Rising Star, and was number one on the CBC Music charts. In July, he was also shortlisted for the 2023 Polaris Music Prize. “One of the challenging parts is how all-encompassing this industry can be,” Aysanabee says of the strain his schedule can put on relationships. His latest single “Somebody Else,” is

Kaela Leone

hen his debut album Watin was released in November 2022, singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Aysanabee had no idea how far it would catapult his career. He’d been thinking of taking a step back from music, but by January his schedule was booked a year in advance.

 Aysanabee performing at the 2023 Juno Awards

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about a recent break-up. “I was less and less available. We were both holding on to the memory of what it used to be. We held on to it as long as we could until eventually you're like, ‘Who is this? Who is this person?’” Aysanabee also reflects on the recent loss of his grandfather, who heavily influenced the Watin album through his storytelling and experiences as a residential school survivor. “I still appreciate that I did spend that entire year talking to him and hearing as many stories as I could. And I got to be there in his final moments,” says Aysanabee of the influence his grandfather had throughout his life, adding that he always worked hard to provide his family the chance to live a good life. “At the end of the day, I made an album about his story. And here I am, being able to play music. So he accomplished his dream and gave his family the best opportunities they could have.” Check out Aysanabee’s new single “Somebody Else” on your favourite streaming service. Visit aysanabee.com for more info.

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Music

 All smiles in the crowd during the Fleet Foxes' show  Charley Crockett putting on a dreamy performance at the Main Stage Saturday night

A Magical Musical Time

The 2023 Winnipeg Folk Festival Story by Emily Turner, Photos by Darren McChristie

here aren’t too many events that are truly fun for all ages, nor are there many that can actually be enjoyed rain or shine. The Winnipeg Folk Festival, with its abundance of tasty food, things to do, and exciting performances, feels like a oneof-a-kind affair that everyone should experience in their lifetime. With over 74,000 people in attendance over the four days this year—the second most well-attended year in its history—you would expect complete chaos and a healthy dose of confusion in the air as people try to navigate the festival grounds. But with the help of 2,305 volunteers, an amazing organizing team, and the friendly folks (some

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of whom have been attending this festival for the last 40 years), the entire weekend was relaxed and welcoming. Across all eight stages, children, teenagers, adults, and seniors enjoyed music from genres ranging from altcountry, rock and roll, and indie folk to experimental electronic, hip hop, and R&B. Not a soul on site was disappointed with all the opportunities to sing, dance, and laugh together over the four-day event. While artists like Emmylou Harris, Rufus Wainwright, and Charley Crockett entertained on the main stage with traditional folk tunes that got the whole audience singing along, electrifying performers like DJ Shub, Panda Bear & Sonic Boom, and Ko Shin

Moon amazed the crowd at Big Blue with their innovative, fiery sounds. The stormy, wet weather that lasted most of the event didn’t stop anyone from enjoying the exciting, groovy shows these artists put on—as even with the consistent rain clouds, it was still sold out by Sunday. Some people go for the headline performances, others for the fascinating workshops where artists perform their less-popular hits and share stories of their experiences with

Music

music. But most say they go to the annual event because of the overwhelming kindness of all the attendees and the energized, inviting atmosphere. Perhaps it is the talent of the artists, or it’s the energy of the superfans, but one thing is for sure: from the level of cleanliness across the grounds to the sense of intimacy and connection present at every stage, the Winnipeg Folk Festival feels almost magical. It’s easy to understand why so many people never miss a year.

 One of the pow wow dancers who performed during DJ Shub's set on the Big Blue @ Night Stage  The Fleet Foxes' lead singer Robin Pecknold on Thursday night at the Main Stage

 Boy Golden saving the day after Sierra Ferrell cancelled at the last minute  The Fruit Bats performing during a sunshower Friday afternoon

 BuenRostro music group during the Follow the Leader workshop at Snowberry Field Stage

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Music

A Dance on a Tuesday KT Tunstall Live at the Auditorium Story and photos by Jack Barten

t was a cloudy Tuesday night in Thunder Bay when KT Tunstall walked on stage at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. The Scottish rock star has been on tour promoting her album Nut— the final in a trilogy of albums exploring themes of mind, body, and soul. On this tour, Tunstall performed solo; no band was to be found lurking in the background acting as support for this performance.

The drums and supporting vocals were all done by Tunstall using a looper pedal, which samples what the artist is playing and repeats it as desired. This gives the set a kind of intimacy, as it really is just you—the audience—and KT telling stories and singing your favorite tracks. The solo nature of the performance is even more impressive when you look at the setlist. Performing covers of classics like “Toxic” by

Britney Spears and “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, and original hits like “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree,” Tunstall had a musical dexterity the entire evening that really showcased her skill and experience as a touring act. Every song, from the dance-y rock classics to slower, introspective tracks, kept everyone’s full attention. The storytelling aspect of Tunstall’s set really was a crowd favourite that Tuesday

evening as she recalled different moments from her career, such as touring with a Jewish hip hop group and recording a song in Hebrew, and getting a surprise call asking her and her band to open for the Eagles. These stories in between songs really made the evening fly by and added to the intimacy, making every moment engaging for the crowd. The set came to its grand conclusion with a performance

of Tunstall’s hit song “Suddenly I See,” which you almost certainly have heard. The audience instantly got up out of their seats and “had a dance on a Tuesday,” as Tunstall herself would say. This last song perfectly encapsulates KT Tunstall’s war m and infectious personality and really makes her show an easy recommendation next time you have a chance to see it.

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Music

 VHS: Andy Middaugh, Curt Mills, Mike Hochins

The Sound of Steel A Conversation with VHS

Story by Justin Allec, Photo by Lee-Ann Hochins

ince first setting tones to tape in 2015 with their Hi-Fi Horror demo, local metal maniacs VHS have maintained an unprecedented output of material. You now need two hands and both feet to count the number of albums, splits, and EPs they’ve released. Add in their latest effort, the swords-and-sorcery themed Quest for the Mighty Riff, and it’s a staggering amount of music. While there are certain hallmarks of a VHS song— hilarious movie samples, grinding riffs, scabby vocals centered around 80s video nasties—this latest collection finds the band taking a much

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more epic approach, at least by their quick ‘n’ dirty standards. “How we write hasn’t changed but I’d say the band’s sound has changed for sure,” singer and guitarist Mike Hochins says. “We are a bit more polished. We certainly aren’t writing six-minute epics, but most songs break the twominute mark now!” While you still will never likely hear a VHS song on rock radio, the band has slowly been making themselves known, both locally and worldwide. Nowadays they’re the elders in Thunder Bay’s metal scene. If Black Pirates is hosting them, as they did during their recent album release show, then the

show will be packed and even feature audience members dressing up in Halloween finery. That popularity is nice, Hochins says, but from the get-go VHS “looked past the confines of our local scene and tried to reach as many people as possible through social media and streaming sites.” The think-global approach works for the band because their music is out of step with current trends, but simply fits within the larger metal world’s appreciation for thrashy, scrappy bands. That perspective has led to VHS being hailed by topshelf metal publications like Decibel on a regular basis.

As well, each release has seen some collaboration with other musicians from bigger bands such as Exhumed or Benediction, which often leads VHS songs to feel like some kind of welcoming metal party. Schlock cinema of the 80s has been the usual inspiration for Hochins, bassist Curt Mills, and drummer Andy Middaugh, and turning to fantasy over horror kept the fun going. “Swords, wizards, dragons, epic battles […] are all things that I loved as a kid and still love now,” Hochins says. If you go by video box art, the two genres aren’t that far apart. Still, there’s a tad more adventurousness on

display on Quest, though it’s impossible to tell if that’s due to the source material or the band’s increasing skills. Either way, Quest is another successful album from a band that gleefully refuses to rest or give up on their kind of fun. After all, there’s always a movie to put on after band practice wraps up. You can find Quest for the Mighty Riff on Bandcamp at vhshorror.bandcamp. com/album/quest-forthe-mighty-riff. Check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/ violenthomicidalslasher.

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Music

The Legend of Tina Turner

TO BURNINGKY THE S

Remembering A Rock ‘n’ Roll Icon Story by Gord Ellis, Photo by Peter Lindbergh

er wild abandon on stage, mixed with searing vocals, inspired performers over five decades. Would we have seen the “moves like Jagger” without Tina? Likely not. By Mick’s own admission, he watched Turner intently from the backstage area early in the Stones’ career and borrowed her moves and sass. Her influence can still be seen quite clearly in Beyonce as well. Yet Tina Turner was more

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than just a firebrand performer. Her death on May 24 of this year led many of us to revisit her musical legacy. And it is vast. Tur ner first came to prominence as the main voice of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. Steeped in blues, gospel, and R&B, The Revue toured all over the world, including a stop in Thunder Bay. The high-voltage dancing and musical fire Tina Turner and the Ikettes put out became legendary. The band

had some huge hits including “Nutbush City Limits,” “River Deep – Mountain High” (produced with the Wall of Sound by Phil Spector), and an epic cover of John Fogerty’s “Proud Mary.” We know now that Tina was abused by Ike during their relationship, and she ultimately left him. Yet even the headstrong girl who was born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, could not have guessed what lay ahead. For those of us who are

old enough to remember the 80s, we likely remember just how omnipresent Tina Turner would become. I recall the first time I heard her cover of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” in the winter of 1983. The song just leapt out of the radio. It was so heartfelt and powerful, and her gospel roots could be clearly heard underpinning the 80s production. Turner made the song completely her own, a skill she would carry through her career. Through her music

video, she made a shock wig, mini-skirt, and high heels a look that would permeate the 80s. Can I also mention that Tina Turner was the queen of the powerhouse duet? There are many examples, but I think two stand out. The first is “It’s Only Love” with Bryan Adams. What a smoking song, and the two generate a lot of heat. The second—and my favourite—is “Tearing Us Apart” with Eric Clapton. I find 80s Clapton over-produced and often boring, but his duet with Turner was fire and brought out the best in him and his guitar. One of my favourite solo performances by Tina Turner came out in 1984. The Mark Knopfler-penned track was also the title of her huge hit album Private Dancer. There is a lot going on in “Private Dancer,” both lyrically and musically. There are changes in tempo and it’s on the slow side. Lyrically, it is an unapologetic and unflinching tale of sex work. It is a testament to Turner’s skill and empathy that she can make the song so real and empowering. It also became a top 10 hit for her. There would be more hits for Turner, and ultimately Hollywood came calling. She did a turn in the 1985 movie Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. In 1993, a movie based on her life called What’s Love Got to Do with It, starring Angela Bassett, would go on to be a huge hit. Although Turner was not heavily involved with the movie—and it did take some liberties with her story— it was once again a reminder of how much this woman had survived, and some of the obstacles she overcame. She would not be denied. There is much great music in the world thanks to Tina Turner. I encourage readers to honour this woman by rediscovering and listening to her entire body of work. It is time well spent.

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Music

Five Alarm Funk

A Seriously Funky Show at Da Vinci Centre Story by Emily Turner, Photos by Darren McChristie

red tutu, a pink gorilla suit, a banana costume, numerous colourful capes, and KFC merch—this is just some of the apparel conga-playing, guiro-rocking Tom Towers of Five Alarm Funk wore during their show at the Da Vinci Centre on July 13. When you show up to see a band with “funk” in the name, you definitely expect to see some funky stuff, but no one could prepare themselves for the amazingly groovy outfits rocked by all eight of the Five Alarm Funk members on that warm, summer night in early July. Combined with an electrifying stage performance and the seriously good tunes, without a doubt Five Alarm Funk brought one of the best nights of the year to Thunder Bay with this incredible parking lot show. Self-described as “a horn powered, percussion fueled, sonic and visual assault,” according to their social media, Five Alarm Funk is one of those iconic bands that have a trademark sound. With timbales, congas, bass, a trumpet, saxophone, guitars, and a drum kit, every song is a fantastic combination of exciting sounds that blend together to make some totally funky songs. Their music echoed far and wide as the audience at the

Da Vinci grew steadily larger throughout the set, which lasted an impressively long time. With 20 years of performing under their belt, the group absolutely knows how to put on a show, and it really is a wonder how they continue with such exhilarating energy. Between every song, as Towers quickly changed into another costume behind his drums, band-members had big smiles and shared quick laughs amongst each other as the crowd cheered. There was a collective moment of panic in the audience when they departed the stage briefly for a quick hydration break, and overwhelming relief when everyone realized they weren’t done yet. The way saxophone player Mike Allen engaged the audience with his humorous facial expressions and consistent hand motions was enough to make him a fan favourite—when the moment came where he jumped off the stage to join the crowd, everyone went berserk. The whole band, each with their own unique role, had everyone in the audience jumping around and dancing as they jammed away to the setting sun. At the end of it all, there was only one question: when will this amazing Canadian band be back to Thunder Bay? We can only hope it’ll be sometime soon.

Summer in the Parking Lot at the Da Vinci Centre continues every Thursday for the rest of August.

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Music

Rocking City Road

 In Denial take to the stage at a Crossroad Music summer show

Crossroad Music Hosts Live Concerts All Summer Long Story and photos by Sidney Ulakovic

ummer just got even busier courtesy of C ro s s ro a d M u s i c . The Indigenous-owned and -operated music store opened on Fort William First Nation earlier this year and has ambitious plans for their first summer. Every Saturday for the rest of the summer, Crossroad Music will be hosting free afternoon concerts to showcase a range of local talent. Manager Andrew Haigh explains they were looking to accomplish a pair of goals when they came to the decision to run the weekly shows: they wanted to promote the store and promote local musicians. So Haigh built a stage overlooking the parking lot out front, and got to work

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getting bands booked in for the summer. “It’s been getting bigger every week,” Haigh says. As is the nature of getting your name out there, the first few shows were quiet, but attendance is quickly increasing through word of mouth. “[At the first show] there were maybe two or three cars that pulled up or trucks that folded down their tailgates and took a listen,” Haigh adds. “We’re really starting to have to look at traffic control now.” As the shows become livelier, know that there’s no pressure at a Crossroad show, with audience support varying from people dancing stagefront to others enjoying the show from a lawn chair. “‘We’ve had some feedback

[from people] saying ‘This is awesome,’” Haigh says. With turnout growing every week, Haigh says they’ve introduced an on-site food vendor, T’s Eats, who has committed to serving up bannock burgers at the shows for the rest of the summer. “We’re hoping to get more food vendors, and if we can’t, we’re going to get a barbecue,” Haigh laughs. As of right now, Petty Thieves is set to play on August 12, and The Electric Angels will be taking the stage August 19, both running from 1 to 5 pm. Haigh says the event is constantly evolving, and there are plans to amp things up with two bands playing every Saturday.

Check out Crossroad Music on Facebook for any updates to this summer’s lineup.

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Music

Sara Kae Releases New Single, “Constellations”

Story by Sidney Ulakovic, Photo by Wyeth McCormick

his summer is a time of celebration for local local music star Sara Kae. Her powerful new single “Constellations” was released at the end of June as she prepares for her upcoming performance at Wake the Giant this September. “Constellations” feels like a dreamy summer night. Kae sings confidently over a gentle piano introduction, bold strings and horns through the bridge, and incorporations of traditional Indigenous sounds throughout, which Kae says to expect to be a staple of her sound. The track marries the hazy pop ambience of Toronto-based producer Kaevox with pieces of a symphonic arrangement by local musician Justin Sillman, and Kae ties everything together with her knack for lyricism and storytelling. Kae first penned the song in 2019 from a place of yearning, as a means to process a toxic relationship. “Constellations” sat for some time after that; however, Kae explains that she is grateful for the fresh perspective time has given her. As she has grown, she’s realized the song is greater than the relationship that inspired it and says that “this song is a power move for me because I sing it from a space of ‘You know what? I’m

happy it didn’t work out.’” The transformative meaning of the song has motivated Kae to see her work beyond an expression of romantic heartache, and she hopes the song resonates with anyone who has overcome a situation that did not serve them. This place of empowerment Kae is working from is an exciting way to kick off her first Wake the Giant performance later this summer. She previously performed at the fundraising event Feed the Giant and is looking forward to having this landmark career moment at the festival. She sees her performance as a tribute to the land and community that has raised her, but adds that “the best part about the experience is getting to work with DFC students.” Performing at a music festival and having fun is just icing on the cake. Kae plans to keep Thunder Bay as her home base, but she hopes to take performing on the road in the future. While the prospect of a debut album is daunting, Kae says it’s a project she would love to take on at some point. In the meantime, she plans on discovering more of herself and gathering new experiences to colour the album. -With files from Emily Turner

“Constellations” is available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music, and you won’t want to miss Sara Kae live on September 16 at Wake the Giant.

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Music

A Modern Spin on Choral Music Minuscule Tours with Rita & The Daydreamers and Electric Wildlife Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photo by Mike Saracino

inuscule is an all-female choir that explores the experiences of humanity through their music. “It’s a c o m p l e t e l y d i ff e re n t way of using a choir as an instrument, and as a way to have a conversation,” says band leader, Niagara-based ukuleleist Laurel Minnes, who writes and arranges all the songs. “I am inspired when I encounter a situation that needs to be talked about,” she adds. “It can be something as common as embarrassment and needing a way to work through it, and other daily life events that we all experience.” Minnes also notes that choral music used to be something we experienced more when attendance at

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church was greater, and it feels like that shared experience is missing today. However, this isn’t your typical choir. The band’s choral aspect is treated as an instrument, with no religious overtones. It is much more eclectic, performing a wide range of genres like folk, jazz, hip hop, a cappella, and more. “At times it’s raw and real and other times it’s ridiculous and funny,” says Minnes. Themes of songs range from climate change, body autonomy, and drug abuse to motherhood, daily life, and other more lighthearted topics. The number of choir members fluctuates from six up to 20 singers at times, complete with a backup band. The name Minuscule initially sprung from Minnes having

to explain how to pronounce her last name. Minnes also views it as a juxtaposition of massive emotions with “the small conversations I have with myself.” The choir helps to downsize big feelings and thoughts by parsing them through song and instruments, so they’re not quite so overwhelming. Songs like “Embarrassment” offer a chance to share and help digest certain life events that we all experience. Minuscule recently completed an East Coast tour opening for Great Lake Swimmers, promoting their debut album GREAT. In August, a pared-down Minuscule will be travelling to Northwestern Ontario with Rita & The Daydreamers and

Electric Wildlife. Originally from Thunder Bay, singersongwriter Rita Visser is a Minuscule member, along with her daughter Skye VisserFarnsworth. Visser will also be sharing some of her own original songs as part of a soft launch of her upcoming album Nothern Daydream, and is looking forward to playing in her hometown. “When I daydream, I often think of the northern waves rolling to shore, which helps me be creative,” says Visser. “I am proud to be a part of this tour. All three bands are similar in the way that we want to help lift people’s mental health and really promote the importance of conserving clean water and wildlife through song.”

Miniscule members Taylor Hulley, Jillian Rene, Skye Visser-Farnsworth, Laurel Minnes, Rita Visser, Emily Andrews, Tara Stanclik, and Nathanial Goold

“When I daydream, I often think of the northern waves rolling to shore, which helps me be creative.” Minuscule plays Live from the Rock Folk Festival in Red Rock on Saturday, August 12 and all three acts play at the Branch 5 Legion’s Imperial Hall in Thunder Bay on Wednesday, August 16. Find Minuscule on Instagram and Facebook or check out minusculemusic.com.

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OfftheWall

Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)

Reviews

The Welshpool Feminine Divine Frillies Dexys

Guided By Voices

Swifties of the world, rejoice! Taylor Swift has released Taylor’s Version of her 2010 album Speak Now. For the uninitiated, Swift is in the process of rerecording her first six studio albums to regain the legal ownership, control, and (most importantly) royalties from her massively successful hits; a businesswoman she most certainly is. With all 16 original tracks as well as six never-before-heard “from the vault” songs, this album is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. With a little less twang, a little more soul, and a lot more musical maturity, Swift’s reimagining provides a subtle but powerful difference on songs like “Back to December” and “Dear John.” Her previously unreleased tracks are perfectly on brand for Speak Now, as Swift sings about youthful hope, heartbreak, fairy tales, and fantasies on “When Emma Falls in Love” and “Timeless.” Ultimately, Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) is a testament to the true wealth of lyrical storytelling that underscores every one of Swift’s albums. All that’s left to do is pray for John Mayer.

Returning with their first album of new, original material since 2012’s One Day I’m Going to Soar (2016’s Let the Record Show was dedicated to reworkings of traditional Irish songs and other covers) Dexys—formerly Dexys Midnight Runners—serve up nine tracks that show the band is just as adept at mixing disparate musical styles as they were when they burst onto the North American music scene with 1982’s smash “Come On Eileen.” Aside from trombonist Big Jim Paterson, only singer and band mainstay Kevin Rowland is around from those halcyon days (the group’s lineup has changed numerous times over the years). The first half of the record mixes sunny, soulful pop with strings and horns, best exemplified in the first single “I’m Going To Get Free” and its follow-up “Coming Home,” which is an absolute highlight. The second half is a much darker, synth-heavy affair, with the sparse arrangement of “My Submission” giving Rowland’s aching vocals the spotlight. Anyone interested in high-quality new music from early music television favourites would be well served by checking out what Dexys is offering today.

After 40 years, most bands would be taking it easy, perhaps even looking at retiring. But not Robert Pollard and his band Guided By Voices. In fact, in the last three years, the band has released an impressive eight albums. Even more impressive is the fact that every one of them has been really good, and Welshpool Frillies is no exception. The album is full of all the things you expect from a GBV album: catchy power pop filled with tons of melody, clever wordplay, and some crunch added to the jangle of the guitar. From lead-off track “Meet The Star” (a fantastic earworm) through first single “Seedling,” right up to the final, title track, Welshpool Frillies is a well-crafted and well-paced album. Whether blasting out of open car windows or playing on bluetooth speakers in backyards, this will be the album of the summer for a lot of folks. Highly recommended

-Kelsey Raynard

-Matt Prokopchuk

Taylor Swift

-Jason Wellwood

Invocation

High Priest

In the family tree of doom metal, there’s an offshoot that sounds like the silver lining to that genre’s typical dark cloud. These warm and fuzzy tones conjure the good vibes of a lazy afternoon relaxing on warm sand, but also feature enough guitar riffery to bang your head. Enter Chicago’s High Priest and their debut album, Invocation, a sonic display of summer sun. This album is all about guitar power. Kicking off with the one-two punch of the title track and “Divinity,” it adds up to over 10 minutes of High Priest demonstrating the aptness of their name. This is pure decibel worship, a dedication to loud, fuzzed tones that slowly build throughout the opener before exploding into a speeding twin-guitar workout. Tension and release, fists in the air, check and double-check! To this forceful sound, High Priest adds Justin Valentino’s massive vocals to the mix. It’s thanks to his gruff range that High Priest’s other strong influence comes through the remainder of the album, and things get positively grungy. Moving from the thrill of high-flying 70s bands like Thin Lizzy to the sludgy depths of 90s luminaries like Alice in Chains shouldn’t be a straight line, but High Priest somehow balances all those sounds while delivering riff-rocking excellence. This is the soundtrack to your next cruise along the highway, be it to the beach or to the stars. -Justin Allec

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My Back Was Nerdy A Bridge For About Nature Ross Reid You To Cross

Anohni and the Johnsons

English-born songwriter Anohni has reunited with her bandmates, the Johnsons, for a soulful and intense record—their first in 13 years. From the jump, My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross sits in a state of mourning as Anohni croons “That’s why this is so sad,” over a meditative guitar melody on “This Must Change.” Themes of death grip the lyrics, and her haunting vocals evoke the feeling of Mother Nature grieving over what’s lost and what’s to come. Powerful build-ups make for a record that produces a lot of strength from soulful stillness. Anohni’s songwriting, perfected over a 25-year career, cuts like a knife. The record’s hardest listen, “Scapegoat,” embodies the narrative of antitrans rhetoric, in which trans bodies are described as "killable," only softened with the qualifier “it doesn’t matter who you are, or where you come from.” It’s in these moments Anohni and her band capture the grim reality of today’s political climate. Feelings of survivor’s guilt and hopelessness will stay with the listener, if the state of the world hasn’t done it already.

Take a beautiful blend of Indigenous knowledge and Western science, add a burst of outdoor nerdiness and you’ve got yourself the perfect nature podcast. Not only is Ross Reid clearly obsessed with Canada’s ecosystems (check out his posts on Instagram and TikTok too), but what is extra awesome is how he genuinely wants to empower listeners to explore and protect the magic that is above, around, and beneath us. For instance, episode #6, “The Microbial World of Forest Ecology” is absolutely mind-blowing; I knew mushrooms and bacteria were important but the level of communication between the two is astounding. Despite attention spans being shorter than ever before, Nerdy About Nature will pull you in like a rhinoceros beetle and make you happier than a cockle in a clam garden. -Andrea Lysenko

The Song in the Spruce John Pringle

Atikokan author John Pringle released his sixth collection of short stories this past spring. For the most part they are set in Northwestern Ontario, though Pringle zests up several of them with some speculative fiction characters— slime baboons, for example. Later, in another story, a character visits and often returns to examine real baboons in a zoo. Pringle’s writing is strong, deftly plotted, and nuanced. Characters and events are vivid. Several stories are connected by the same character, or by referencing characters from another story. All of them are linked by important currency: an examination of what climate change is doing to our civilization, primarily as a result of what civilization has done to the natural world. His theme is “pay attention!” There are genuine, gripping, emotional gifts in Pringle’s narratives. The title story, which opens this collection, and the concluding story, “Grace,” are two of the finest he has written. This is a great book to add to your stories about—and understanding of—Northwestern Ontario. Highly recommended.

A History of the World in 500 Walks Sarah Baxter

One of the joys of walking historical trails is the immersion into the past. Walking along a trail and experiencing the same sights, sounds, and smells experienced by historical figures can lead to a greater appreciation and understanding of their stories. Sarah Baxter’s A History of the World in 500 Walks is an amazing compendium of interesting hiking trails around the world for the adventurous explorer that can evoke these feelings. This gorgeous, full-colour guide provides trail details—length, difficulty, route, and other tips for the journey—as well as the historical context of the walk and commentary on interesting sites along the path. The specifics are brief, however (many of the trail listings only have a sidebar), so if a hiker wishes to travel to do the hike, a supplemental travel guide is highly recommended. -Ryan Gracey

-Michael Sobota

-Michael Charlebois

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1.807.699.7801 The Walleye

Architecture

 The front veranda showing the tamarack columns rising into the metal roof

Fort William Historical Park Visitor Centre

Story by Jennifer Bonazzo, Photos by Ryan Hill

O  The grounds also feature a lot of greenspace  The front entrance

The Walleye

n July 10, 1992 the Visitor Centre at Fort William Historical Park opened to great fanfare. Known as Rendezvous Place, it was built as a place to gather and celebrate—a doorway between the modern world and stepping back to the year 1815. Thirty years later, this building still achieves this purpose. The project was first announced in 1989 by thenMinister of Tourism Hugh O’Neil, who lauded the Fort as one of the top attractions in Canada during his visit to Thunder Bay, according to a May 3, 1989 article from Lakehead Living. Kuch and Stephenson Architects won the design contract, with John Stephenson calling it a landmark project for their newer firm. With Walter Kuch creating the design plans, John Sims as exhibit designer, and A.J. Wing and Sons handling the construction, it took two years to design and build at a cost of $5.1 million. Issues

such as flood prevention and support for Kuch’s vision were hurdles that were overcome. The meticulous details put into the centre are evident even before you step inside. Approaching from the parking lot, a palisade-like fence on either side of the building gently curves away the further it goes; this was said to represent time passing, somewhat prescient as you move closer. A veranda sheltering the entrance is supported by boulders below tamarack columns which rise to metal tresses. This was to show it was “rooted in history but moving up to modern times,” says Kuch as he reflected on the project. The base of the tamaracks have a suggestion of birds and animals native to Northwestern Ontario, the most recognizable being a beaver. Cedar shingles with wooden slats are used on the roof. Materials sympathetic to the historical times of the Fort are everywhere, apparent in the logs, glass, and stone

Architecture

 The banquet hall, which can be booked for events

that greet the eye, both in the interior and exterior. Kuch and Stephenson pioneered using materials found naturally throughout the region, with this project being the first time where they established this unique approach. Stepping into the lobby, visitors will see the reception area, the gift shop, McGillivray’s Landing, and the Orientation Exhibit area. The structure has a natural look to it but built in a modern way, with the centre fully accessible on one level with ramps and automatic doors. The interior has changed only slightly from when the centre first opened. McGillivray’s Landing, once a restaurant, is now a banquet hall able to be booked for conferences, weddings, and other events. A wall of fame, which featured drawings and tartans of historic figures from the North West Company, has been removed, but the vivid 6.6 by 14.3 metre mural known as “Return to the Source,” or

“Kee-Way-Win” captures the eye as an homage to the days of the voyageur. The exhibit of screens depicting life in the fur trade also remain, sending visitors on their way to the Fort. For 30 years, Rendezvous Place has greeted guests before transporting them back to 1815, and welcomed them at their return. This year, Fort William Historical Park’s 50th Anniversary, it’s a great time to gather and celebrate. Jennifer Bonazzo is a member of 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 www.thunderbay.ca/ en/city-hall/heritage-inthunder-bay.aspx.

 An aerial view of the Rendezvous Centre, also known as the Visitor Centre at Fort William Historical Park  The lobby, with its natural yet modern look

The Walleye

AugustEventsGuide August 1, 10 am

Window Painting County Park Library

Let your creative self have some fun. Come to the County Park Library for a story and let your creativity run wild painting their big windows. All ages, no registration required.

tbpl.ca

August 1, noon

Peppa Pig’s Adventure

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Come join Peppa on an exciting camping trip in the woods in this 60-minute live musical experience. Produced by Round Room Live, and eOne, Hasbro’s global entertainment studio.

tbca.com

August 1–3, 8–10, 7:30 pm

The Marvellous Wonderettes: Caps & Gowns Paramount Theatre

Badanai Theatre presents a follow-up to last year’s smash The Marvellous Wonderettes. Called Caps & Gowns, the story follows the main characters as they deal with the aftermath of the events in the original. See this month’s Film & Theatre section for more info.

facebook.com/ badanaitheatre

August 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31

August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 pm

Marina Park International Tai Chi Park

Thunder City Speedway

Tai Chi in the Park Everyone is welcome to join Master Peng You Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the summer for an hour of relaxing exercise, fresh air, and social interaction at the International Tai Chi Park. Tuesday sessions 7–8 pm, Thursday sessions 7:30– 8:30 am.

pengyou-taiji.ca

August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 11 am

Lil Wednesdays Goods & Co. Market

Every Wednesday, the market will be transformed into a fun, free space for you to bring your little ones. Expect play areas, crafts, special kids meals on offer, and soft crawl areas for your extra-tiny ones.

facebook.com/ goodscomarket

August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2 pm

Babies & Brews

Red Lion Smokehouse Connect with new moms and dads in the Red Lion Smokehouse Lounge. Nursing is welcome and both washrooms include changing facilities.

@redlionsmokehouse

August 2, 3, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 30

August 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, 9 am

Pierogi Days

Northern Nature Trading Mary J.L. Black Library

Polish Combatants Branch No. 1 Head over to the Polish Combatants Branch No. 1 every Tuesday and Wednesday to buy perogies, cabbage rolls, vegan beet soup, and more. Pre-order, e-transfer.

EVENTS GUIDE KEY General Art Food Sports Music Theatre

Northern Nature Trading is a special kind of swap shop. Show Mary J.L. Black Library items you’ve found in nature and trade them for things in their collection. Start times vary by date, please check online to confirm.

nnt@tbpl.ca

Wednesday Night Racing The dirt track is back. Cars are set to hit the track Wednesday evenings at Thunder City Speedway.

thundercityspeedway.ca

August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 7:30 pm

Trivia Night The Foundry

Weekly trivia nights continue at The Foundry. There is a new topic each week, and there are fun, local prizes to be won. Registration starts at 7:30 pm, games start at 8 pm.

facebook.com/foundrytbay

August 3–6

Fisherman’s Picnic

Downtown Grand Marais, Minn. Check out a summer staple along the American North Shore. The Fisherman’s Picnic includes loads of family fun, including sidewalk sales, craft show, daily contests, and more. Plus, try a famous fishburger sold by the local Lions Club.

visitcookcounty.com

August 3–7, 8 am

Canadian National Disc Golf Championships 2023 Dragon Hills, Birch Point, and Bayview Disc Golf Courses The best disc golf players tee off at this year’s national disc golf championships. The nationals are Canada’s marquee disc golf event, bringing together players from across the country to crown the sport’s national champions.

ontariodiscsports.ca

807-345-1861

Isle Royale Kayaking Sampler Isle Royale National Park

Hosted by Uncommon Events, this seven-day experience of Lake Superior is designed for those who are interested in learning to camp out of their kayaks. More details and registration available online.

mi-paddleadventure.com

August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 11:15 am

Baby Time

Waverley Resource Library A drop-in, literacy based program for babies from birth to 24 months. This program combines stories, music, rhymes and play.

tbpl.ca

August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 3 pm

Blissful Beading County Park Library

Drop in and relax while you create beaded trinkets, necklaces, keychains, and more. Anyone ages 4 and up is welcome to come and craft.

tbpl.ca

August 4, 9 am

OYEP Northwestern Ontario Career Fair & Partner Luncheon Confederation College

OYEP invites the public to experience a targeted and localized career fair for Indigenous youth, a catered lunch, door prizes, a silent auction, photo booth, mock interviews and much more.

facebook.com/ OutlandOYEP

August 4–6

Superior Car Classics Car Club Dragfest Terrace Bay Airport

Come check out some quarter-mile drag racing following National Hot Rod Association rules, and the largest autosports event in northern Ontario. Tickets are $10–20; children under 12 are free.

dragfest.ca

Until August 5

35th Anniversary Members and Connor McMahon Exhibitions Definitely Superior Art Gallery

DefSup presents two exciting new exhibitions. The 35th Anniversary Definitely Superior Art Gallery Members Exhibition is a diverse annual exhibition that always draws out the best and most vibrant eclectic/ experimental multidisciplinary contemporary regional art by new generation, emerging, and established professional artists. The Connor McMahon Solo Exhibition features work from the emerging multidisciplinary artist, combining elements of the psychedelic, surreal, absurd, and gothic. The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, noon–6 pm. Admission by donation, all ages, accessible.

definitelysuperior.com

August 5, 9 am

Lighthouse Carnival Porphyry Island Lighthouse

Enjoy a charter trip to iconic Porphyry Island, a historicaleco tour, live entertainment featuring the Scott Van Teeffelen Band, and a fishand-chip dinner. A great place to unwind and commune with nature. Tickets $160.

clls.ca/lighthouse-carnival

Behind every Instagram moment

2 100

August 3–9, 17–23, 10 am

The Walleye Walleye The

August 5 & 6

Kenora Harbourfest

Kenora’s Harbourfront Kenora’s Harbourfest is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The Grapes of Wrath are headlining this year, along with Northern Royals, Stone House, and others. Don’t miss the family fun, either.

harbourfest.ca

August 6, 13, 20, 27, 10 am

Sunday Skates Marina Park

The Female Skateboard Collective is hosting Sunday Skates for anyone who identifies as female and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. All ages and abilities are welcome. A $5 donation is required to join.

facebook.com/ femaleskateboardcollective

August 6, 12 pm

Show and Shine Fun Event 750 Tungsten St.

Shotgun LEMC and Pioneer Ridge team up for their second annual motorcycle and classic car show. The event is free to attend.

807-252-0677

August 6, 7 pm

Community Clean Up Thunder Centre Beer Store

StandUp4CleanUp is looking for volunteers to run a community clean up. Volunteers will meet at the Beer Store and proceed to clean up the surrounding green space. PPE provided.

facebook.com/ StandUp4CleanUp

August 7, 14, 21, 28, 6 pm

Minecraft for Teens

Waverley Resource Library The Waverley Library invites teens grades 8-12 to explore their creativity with Minecraft. Teens can join with their own device/account in person or virtually on Discord.

tbpl.ca

August 8, 5:30 pm

Fresh Air Trail Run #5

Kamview Nordic Centre Push your limits at this mass race. There will be both a short and long course. $10 per participant.

facebook.com/ KamviewNordicCentre

August 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, 6 pm

Live Figure Drawing with Chris Gajda

August 9–24, 2 pm

Summer Art Days Gallery 33

Children ages 13–17 can learn different types of drawing, paintings and other mediums such as sculpting and craft! Registration required.

gallery.33.thunderbay@ gmail.com

August 10, 6 pm

Queer Coffee Night Nomad by Pinetree Catering

Every second Tuesday of the month, come out to a different local coffee shop to connect with the community, share stories, and partake in some workshops and fun events. August’s meet up will be at Nomad by Pinetree Catering on Bay Street. Always free.

thunderpride.ca

August 10, 7 pm

Gallery 33

“Beach Day” Paint and Wine Night

Learn how to draw the human figure using in person instruction and live human models. Ages 18+. Cost is $272 for eight classes, or $55 for one class. Registration required.

Gallery 33

Create a unique painting on canvas using guided instruction and liquid courage. $40 per person, supplies included for one class. Registration required.

gallery.33.thunderbay@ gmail.com

August 8–13

August 10, 17, 24

WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup Baseball Central & Port Arthur Stadium

Catch women’s national baseball teams from Canada, USA, Mexico, Australia, Korea, and Hong Kong-China as they compete for the chance to participate in the Women’s Baseball World Cup final stage in Thunder Bay next year. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

wbsc.org

August 9–13

Canadian Lakehead Exhibition

CLE Fairgrounds Visitors to the CLE can enjoy an array of amusement park rides, as well as various food, vendor, and entertainment booths. Nightly musical performances, including Prism, 54-40, The Northern Pikes, Stardrop and the Lockyer Boys, and The Hip Show. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

cle.on.ca

Movie Nights in the Park City Parks

Held in various parks throughout the city, Movie Nights in the Park is a series of free, family-friendly outdoor film screenings. Films begin at dusk. Movie titles TBA. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

thunderbay.ca/movienights

August 11, 7 pm

Pass Lake Drive-In Movie Night Pass Lake Community Centre

Check out a classic film from the comfort of your own vehicle. Footloose will be screened at the Pass Lake Community Centre as one of the lead-up events to the community’s summer country fair. Gates open at 7 pm, movie at 8 pm. Tickets $25/ carload in advance, $30/ carload at the gate.

Pass Lake Community on Facebook

August 11–13, 9 am

August 17, 11 am

Chippewa Park

Whitewater Golf Club

North Shore Dog Club All Breed Dog Shows

Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic 2023

Come see demonstrations of dog sports available in the Thunder Bay area. Food vendors will be on site, so grab a bite to eat and check out pet-related vendors between the shows.

A nine-hole tournament designed to give you a fun day out of the office and a chance for some great networking. Lunch, cocktail reception, dinner, and golf with a cart included.

807-472-6720

business.tbchamber.ca/ events

August 11–13

Live From the Rock Folk Festival

Pull-a-Log Park, Red Rock Jam-packed with world-class folk music, workshop-style performances, family games and activities, artisans, yoga, local food vendors, and more. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

August 18–20, 10 am

Murillo Fair

600 Poleline Road or 4559 Oliver Road

livefromtherockfolkfestival. com

There’s something for the whole family to enjoy at the Murillo Fair: rodeo, gymkhana, animal and craft exhibits, children’s activities, artisan markets, food vendors, and live entertainment all weekend long. Admission is $5.

August 12, 12 pm

facebook.com/murillofair

Marina Park

August 18–21, noon–6 pm

WineOh!

Food and drink fans, you’ve come to the right place. WineOh! celebrates all that is quality, artisan craft made, delightful, and fun. Ticket prices range depending on the session. Check the website for details.

breakwaterevents.ca

August 13, 2 pm

Stitch & Bitch Crafters Meet-Up Red Lion Smokehouse

Knit, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery—whatever your needle craft, get together to compare patterns, share techniques, and trade tips with others. All experience levels welcome.

@redlionsmokehouse

August 16–19, 7:30 pm

Mean Girls: High School Version Trinity Hall Theatre

Applauze Productions is excited to bring the cult classic Mean Girls to life with Mean Girls: High School Version. Tickets are $20–25. See this month’s Film & Theatre section for more info.

applauzeproductions.com

Until August 16

Boreal Brushstrokes Co.Lab Gallery & Arts Centre

Featuring the paintings of Sue Lewis, Anne Winkworth, and Nicole Sutherland, Boreal Brushstrokes is a celebration of the nature that surrounds us.

colabgallery.ca

Elucidate: 35th Annual Regional Juried Show Call For Art Submissions Definitely Superior Art Gallery

DefSup and Vox Popular Media Arts Festival are co-presenting three new art shows; Elucidate, the theme for the 35th Annual Regional Juried Exhibition, has an open regional call for entry format. Local/ regional professional emerging/established artists are asked to consider the relevance of the concept of Elucidate (to make clear from confusion or ambiguity, more comprehensible, illuminate) in terms of their own experiences, interpretations, and relationships to current contemporary art practice, and submit up to two artworks for consideration, along with a statement of how the art relates to the theme. Submissions can be dropped off at the gallery August 18–21, from noon to 6 pm. The show will open September 1 with a gala opening from 7 to 11 pm, featuring art, music, performance, and refreshments.

definitelysuperior.com

August 19, 9 am

August 26, 10 am

Westfort Village

Pass Lake Community Hall

Westfort Street Fair

The 41st annual Westfort Street Fair will feature the same classics everyone has come to love along with new events, live music, beer gardens, vendors, street food, and entertainment.

Pass Lake Country Fair

A day of country fun, with fresh produce, antique cars and tractors, pony rides, and so much more. Admission is $5 for adults, free for children under 10.

facebook.com/ WestfortVillage

passlakecountryfair@ outlook.com

August 19 & 20, 10 am

Until September 17

Fort William Historical Park

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Anishinaabe Keeshigun

Celebrate Anishinaabe culture, tradition, language, and technology at Anishinaabe Keeshigun at Fort William Historical Park. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

Wiigwas Manidoog Descendants

fwhp.ca

The first solo exhibition of works by artist Helen Pelletier. Her etched baskets, objects, garments, and accessories express her relationship with wiigwas, or birchbark, and reflect the love she feels for the land.

August 19 & 20

theag.ca

Nipigon Blueberry Blast Festival Downtown Nipigon

A fun-filled event for the whole family featuring music, blueberry-themed foods,local artisans and crafters, and events for children and adults all throughout the weekend.

facebook.com/ nipigonblueberryblast

August 19, 26, 12 pm

TBay Drive-By Art Gallery Various Locations

An event shining a light on local artists. Artists will have galleries set up in their own yards for the public to view and shop. Free to attend.

Tbay Drive by Art Gallery on Facebook

August 19, 4:30 pm

Summer Matsuri West Thunder Community Centre

The Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association hosts a festival celebrating all things Japanese. There will be food and goods for sale, performances, and martial arts demonstrations. See this month’s City Scene section for more info.

Until September 17

Ziibaaska’iganagoodayan – The Jingle Dress

Thunder Bay Art Gallery The Thunder Bay Art Gallery celebrates a major acquisition of 11 paintings by local artist Christian Chapman. This exhibition is a stunning collection of Chapman’s signature popart style paintings depicting Anishinaabe women.

theag.ca

Until September 25

Behind Racism: Challenging the Way We Think Thunder Bay Museum

This traveling exhibition shows how the mental processes that help us think and act quickly can lead to racism and discrimination, and examines racism in Canada, encouraging visitors to recognize bias, challenge discrimination, and appreciate our differences. Pay what you can.

thunderbaymuseum.com

@ljca.tbay on Instagram

August 20, 2 pm

Walk For Lupus 2023 Marina Park

Registration begins at 2 pm, and the walk starts at 2:30 pm, covering about 2.5 km. There will be special guests along with complimentary snacks and beverages, and raffle and prize packs to be won.

@lupuswalkthunderbay

The Walleye Walleye The

3 101

AugustMusicGuide August 1

Tuesday Night Jazz with Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 2

Summer Patio Sessions: Southern Comfort The Wayland

6 pm • No Cover • 19+

Live at the Waterfront: Cartwrights & G.R. Gritt Marina Park

August 7

Summer Concert Series: Brother John & The Glide Waverley Park

Da Vinci Centre 6 pm • $5 • AA

Karaoke

Branch 5 Legion 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Mic Night

Lakehead Beer Company

7 pm • No Cover • 19+

10 pm • $5 • 19+

Karaoke

10 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Wayland August 12

1 pm • No Cover • AA

August 8

Howl at the Moon

Tuesday Night Jazz with Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 9

6 pm • No Cover • 19+

Summer in the Parking Lot

Blood Red Moon

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Howl at the Moon

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 3

Karaoke

Open Mic Night

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern

Karaoke

Crossroad Music Saturdays

6:30 pm • No Cover • AA

Summer Patio Sessions: Tanner Van Teeffelen

6 pm • No Cover • AA

The Three Kord Killers

The Wayland

Live at the Waterfront: Tin Pan Alley & Harm & Ease Marina Park

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 10

Crossroad Music

Karaoke

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Along The Lines Tour Homecoming Black Pirates Pub 9 pm • $10 • 19+

Saturday Night Remix ft DJ Mo NV Music Hall

10 pm • $10 • 19+

The Three Kord Killers The Wayland

10 pm • $5 • 19+

August 14

Summer Concert Series: Michael Abraham & Gibson, Martin and I Waverley Park

6:30 pm • No Cover • AA

Open Mic Night Howl at the Moon

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Karaoke

Summer in the Parking Lot

August 15

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

6 pm • $5 • AA

Anchor & Ore

7 pm • No Cover • AA

Howl at the Moon

Open Decks Atmos

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 4

Jazz & Old Fashioned Fridays with Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Music and Dancing Bar Polonia

Da Vinci Centre

Karaoke

Branch 5 Legion 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Mic Night

Lakehead Beer Company 7 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

Howl at the Moon 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Decks Atmos

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Blood Red Moon

Narcotic Wasteland w/ Gorgatron + VHS

10 pm • $5 • 19+

8 pm • $20 ADV • 19+

8 pm • $7 • AA

Norteños Cantina August 5

Crossroad Music Saturdays Crossroad Music

1 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

Howl at the Moon 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Saturday Night Remix ft DJ Mo NV Music Hall

10 pm • $10 • 19+

Black Pirates Pub August 11

Jazz & Old Fashioned Fridays with Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Music and Dancing Bar Polonia

8 pm • $7 • AA

Ride for Riker: Cinema 5 Skatepark Fundraiser Black Pirates Pub

4 102

The Walleye The Walleye

9 pm • $TBA • 19+

Tuesday Night Jazz with Mood Indigo 6 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 16

Summer Patio Sessions The Wayland

6 pm • No Cover • 19+

Live at the Waterfront: Chris Talarico & Zach Zoya Marina Park

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Minuscule

Branch 5 Legion 7 pm • $20 • 19+

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 17

Summer in the Parking Lot Da Vinci Centre

Branch 5 Legion

Howl at the Moon 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Decks Atmos

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 18

Jazz & Old Fashioned Fridays with Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Ron & Sharon Kanutski’s 25th Anniversary Rock Party Branch 5 Legion

7 pm • $15+ • 19+

Music and Dancing Bar Polonia

8 pm • $7 • AA

Thrash Night ft Pansophic + Killer + more Black Pirates Pub

Saturday Night Remix ft DJ Mo

Summer Patio Sessions: Chris & Katherine

NV Music Hall

10 pm • $10 • 19+

August 28

The Wayland

Live at the Waterfront: Sara Kae & Lockyer Boys

Summer Concert Series: Southern Comfort & Mood Indigo

6 pm • No Cover • AA

6:30 pm • No Cover • AA

6 pm • No Cover • 19+

Marina Park

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 24

Summer in the Parking Lot Da Vinci Centre 6 pm • $5 • AA

Open Mic Night

Lakehead Beer Company 7 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

The Wayland

7 pm • No Cover • 19+

Waverley Park

Open Mic Night Howl at the Moon

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 29

Tuesday Night Jazz with Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm • No Cover • AA

Karaoke

The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 30

10 pm • $5 • 19+

Karaoke

Summer Patio Sessions: Tim Albertson

Norteños Cantina

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

6 pm • No Cover • 19+

Strait Up

The Well Hungarians 10 pm • $5 • 19+

August 19

Crossroad Music Saturdays

Branch 5 Legion

Howl at the Moon

Open Decks Atmos

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

August 25

The Wayland

Live at the Waterfront: Jason Maxwell & Honest Heart Collective Marina Park

Karaoke

Jazz & Old Fashioned Fridays with Mood Indigo

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

6 pm • No Cover • AA

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Bar Polonia

August 31

Crossroad Music

1 pm • No Cover • AA

Howl at the Moon

The Doggett Experience Album Fundraiser Black Pirates Pub 9 pm • $10 • 19+

Strait Up

The Wayland 10 pm • $5 • 19+

Saturday Night Remix ft DJ Mo NV Music Hall

10 pm • $10 • 19+

August 21

Summer Concert Series: Jamie Philp & Captain John and the Polka Pirates Waverley Park

Anchor & Ore

Music and Dancing 8 pm • $7 • AA

The Castagnes Black Pirates Pub

9 pm • $TBA • 19+

The Flip$ide w/ Gnarky Atmos

9 pm • $15 • 19+

Cheap & Easy

Norteños Cantina 10 pm • $5 • 19+

Blood Red Moon The Wayland

10 pm • $5 • 19+

August 26

Open Mic Night

Crossroad Music Saturdays

8 pm • No Cover • 19+

1 pm • No Cover • AA

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Music

LU RADIO’S MONTHLY TOP 1 TEKE::TEKE* Hagata

Kill Rock Stars

8 Pantayo*

Ang Pagdaloy

Telephone Explosion

17 Planet Giza*

Ready When You Are

Quiet Note

9 King Krule

18 Jenn Grant*

Matador

Outside Music

Space Heavy

Champagne Problems

CILU 102.7fm’s Monthly Charts for this issue reflect airplay for the month ending July 11, 2023. Keep it locked on 102.7 FM, online streaming at luradio.ca.

23 Mega Bog

End of Everything

Mexican Summer

24 Harrison*

Birds, Bees, The Clouds & The Trees

Last Gang

10 William Prince*

25 The Babe Rainbow

Stand in the Joy

Fresh As a Head of Lettuce

Six Shooter

11 Half Moon Run*

Eureka

Salt

2 La Sécurité*

Music

26 Feeble Little Horse

BMG

Girl with Fish

Saddle Creek

Stay Safe!

Mothland

3 Arlo Parks

19 Terry Uyarak*

My Soft Machine

UNNUAQ

Transgressive/PIAS

Aakuluk

4 Zoon*

20 Oranje*

Bekka Ma’iingan

Pure Sport

Paper Bag

5 PRIORS* Daffodil

Mothland

6 FRANKIIE*

Between Dreams

Paper Bag

7 Bully

Lucky For You

Sub Pop

Self-Released

12 Debby Friday* GOOD LUCK

Sub Pop

13 The Dirty Nil*

Free Rein to Passions

Dine Alone

14 Feist*

Multitudes

Polydor/Interscope

15 Sweeping Promises Good Living Is Coming For You

Feel It/Sub Pop

16 Witch Prophet*

Gateway Experience

21 Bodywash*

I Held the Shape While I Could

Self-Released

22 Squid

O Monolith

Warp

27 Jeremie Albino Tears You Hide

Kill Rock Stars

28 Lunice* OPEN

LuckyMe

29 Miya Folick Roach

Nettwerk

30 Queens of the Stone Age

In Times New Roman...

Matador

Heart Lake

* Indicates Canadian Content Courtesy earshot-online.com

The The Walleye Walleye

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TattooedYou

Live Fast, Eat Trash!

D TATTOOE YOU

Story by Leah Morningstar, Photos courtesy of Courtney Varga Tattoo by Teemu Kilz at Creation Body Piercing

any years ago, Courtney Varga and her stepsister got matching tattoos on their forearms: simple little flowers with the word sister in cursive writing. After a few years, the tattoo began to fade just as the relationship did. One day, Varga woke up and realized things had changed. “It’s been three years since I’ve even spoken to my former stepsister, and every day I have to look down and see this reminder that I’m not the same person I used to be,” she says. She decided it was time to cover up the faded little flower and get something bold and joyful and maybe even a bit hilarious. What could be more joyful and hilarious than a trash panda eating trash? Yes, you’re seeing it correctly, it’s a raccoon sitting in a garbage can, eating lasagna. How

long has that lasagna been in the trash? Doesn’t matter, it’s lasagna and the raccoon is eating it no matter what. When asked why she wanted a raccoon, Varga says that “I make absolutely no apologies for this, I love raccoons so much and I love their mischievous little hands.” Fair enough! But why the lasagna? “This is the more embarrassing part,” Varga says. “But I love lasagna so much that I’ve been known to eat it long after it should be considered trash. If it’s been in the fridge too long or if it’s sat out on the counter too long, I don’t care, I’m still going for it.” Admitting this embarrassing information must also come with the addendum that Varga has given herself food poisoning from eating bad lasagna not once, not twice, but three times. Her friends and family have mocked her relentlessly

over the years, but Varga leans into the mockery. And despite making herself sick, she still loves lasagna. Varga has a great sense of humour and loved the idea of memorializing her trash panda tendencies in ink. Teemu Kilz from Creation Body Piercing also loved the idea and was given free rein to design something big and bright that would grab attention and make people laugh. Everybody who’s seen the tattoo has loved it too. In a sense, there’s probably a bit of trash panda inside us all, tempting fate as we eat our favourite expired snacks or sneaking some dairy knowing it’s going to hurt our stomachs. But Varga says life is too short to be logical all the time. Sometimes you just have to live fast, eat trash, and have a good time doing it!

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The Walleye

105

“What better way to [use] the large amounts of unused space than by filling it with homegrown food?”

Green

Tina Quinn, Maelyn Hurley, Jacquie Forbes

Food Sustainability

Aeroponic Gardening Sees Growth in Thunder Bay Story by Leah Morningstar, Photos courtesy of Jacquie Forbes

or the last year, anyone who’s stepped inside Goods & Co. Market on Red River Road will have noticed the large towers of bright green plants and produce. They’re hard to miss with their gleaming colours and bright white lights. These green, growing towers located all around the market are about more than beautifying the space. Each tower, filled with growing plants from top to bottom, is actually growing food. Almost 10 years ago, Tina Quinn purchased one of these grow towers; she began learning how to utilize the aeroponic techniques and technology to grow her own food all year round. Aeroponic is a plant-growing system wherein the roots are suspended in air and lightly sprayed with a nutrient-rich, water-based mist. Hanging the

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plants vertically and providing nutrients and sunlight (lamps on a timer) allows the plants to grow continually throughout all seasons. They can be used for flowers, but are more commonly used for produce. Lettuce and leafy greens do very well with this system, but growing almost any vegetable is possible, with the exception of root vegetables. As soon as Jacquie Forbes got her own grow tower, she too was hooked. She had a vision to bring food sustainability to Thunder Bay, and Quinn was on board. They just needed a space large enough to house multiple grow towers. Enter Maelyn Hurley, founder and CEO of Goods & Co. Market. Quinn and Forbes had the idea and Hurley had the space. Hurley loved the idea of growing food on site. “What better way to

[use] the large amounts of unused space than by filling it with homegrown food?” she says. The grow towers are all over Goods & Co. right now. And soon, thanks to generous funding, there will be 300 more towers set up in the basement. When the reconstruction of the second floor is complete, more grow towers will move up there as well. The ultimate goal will be to eventually move the basement grow towers up to greenhouses on the roof. With an established farm in Goods & Co., the team will continue expanding upon food sustainability. Two schools in Thunder Bay already have grow towers and six more are slated to soon follow suit. The team recently hosted the Grade 3 students from École catholique Franco Supérieur for a learning workshop in the Co. Lab Gallery & Arts Centre. There will likely be more workshops and, after

the Goods & Co. expansion, there will be a space for students of all ages to have hands-on experiences upstairs. “We’ve already been providing produce on a small scale to customers, but soon we’ll be filling bulk orders to larger retail spaces,” Forbes says. It really seems like Quinn, Forbes, and Hurley are setting down roots now. A decade ago, the seed was planted and, after much hard work, these three are enjoying the fruits of their labour. Make sure to check out the towers of green next time you’re in the area. Questions about the towers and food sustainability can be directed to Jacquie Forbes at jacquie@ threeseedscorp.com or Tina Quinn at tina@ threeseedscorp.com.

 The Grade 3 students from École catholique Franco-Supérieur

Green

Where Do We Go From Here? The Community Food System Report Card By Sarah Siska, Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy

ood systems in Northwestern Ontario face significant pressures, including the impacts of climate change, supply chain pressures, and more. While many of these feel out of our control, there are many ways through which we can mobilize community assets and work towards longerterm changes to build better food systems. The Community Food System Report Card was developed to be a starting place for this work. The Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy (TBAFS) 2023 Community Food System Report Card was released in January and is a comprehensive snapshot of regional food systems. Building on the first edition released in 2015, the report card contains the information needed to understand what the regional food system looks like now, how it is changing over time,

and how to get active and involved with building a more equitable and sustainable food system for everyone in the Thunder Bay region. In previous columns for The Walleye, we discussed the breadth of information contained in the report card, but possibly even more important is how we can use this information. Austin Burr, a teacher at Westgate CVI, used the report card in his class, noting “it provided a good way for students to synthesize the theory they were seeing in the classroom with actual, tangible data about food security in our community.” By showing the diverse and expansive role of food in contributing to social, environmental, and economic well-being in our community, the report card is a call to action, a starting point to learn more about the food system, our role in it, and how to be more active in co-creating

better food systems here in the places we call home. Charles Levkoe, a professor at Lakehead University and chair of TBAFS, has used the report card in his research and teaching to provide data and vignettes about the Thunder Bay and area food system to explain how it works and how it is changing. Most recently, he met with policymakers, community-based practitioners, and researchers in Aotearoa/ New Zealand and Australia to discuss the way cities can play an important role in supporting sustainability and equity through food. “Not only were these individuals intrigued by the details in the report card and its aesthetic and accessible format, but many of them are now planning to develop community food system report cards in their own regions,” he says. Using this data, we can work together to learn about and

strengthen our regional food system. Community workers, health care practitioners, policymakers, and everyone who eats can use the report card to bring ideas forward about how to ensure all people have healthy and equitable access to food, procured locally whenever possible. The report card can be brought to your workplace to push for policies around local food purchasing, and to our political representatives as a tool to help make changes around food access and infrastructure, reducing food waste, and supporting producers and harvesters. Ultimately, the report card is about community action. We don’t want this information to sit around until it is updated again in five years—we hope that it can be a stepping stone on the path toward a socially, ecologically, and economically just food future for the Thunder

Bay region. If reading the report card left you with questions or concerns, reach out to us at the TBAFS, and we can work together to learn more and dive deeper as we continue to push this work forward together. We ask that everyone use the report card to push for positive changes in our community. To access the Thunder Bay and Area 2023 Community Food System Report Card, visit foodsystemreportcard. ca. You can also send a message to coordinator@ tbfoodstrategy.com or @tbayfood with feedback and/or examples of how you’ve used the information.

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Green

Pack It In, Pack It Out By Erin Moir, Co-Executive Director, EcoSuperior

e are so lucky to be surrounded by some of the best hiking trails, leading us to some of the most amazing climbs, vistas, and shorelines. To show our respect and appreciation for these spaces, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure our favourite places are clean and safe to visit as many times as we would like. We have likely all heard the phrase “pack it in, pack it out,” a common mantra of outdoor enthusiasts, especially those in the backcountry, where waste

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receptacles are usually nonexistent. But another mantra that should be at the forefront of our adventure is “don’t trash the air.” When it comes to waste in the backcountry, burning is not the answer. Burning items other than clean brush or dry firewood releases a big cloud of contaminants such as dioxins and furans (toxic chemicals) into the air. Not only can the particulate matter in the smoke from garbage fires trigger respiratory problems, but exposure to these chemicals

is linked to a range of health problems, including cancers and immune system disorders. Keep in mind that what goes up (in smoke) must come down. When dioxins and furans settle on fields, forests, and waterways, they enter the food chain through the fat of livestock, wild game, and fish. There are plenty of ways to create a safe, green, outdoor or backcountry experience that will help maintain a healthy environment for people and the planet. • Pack out all your waste, no

matter how big or small • Wash dishes (and yourself) over land and at least 200 metres away from a source of water to avoid immediate run-off • Consider long-sleeved clothing and hats instead of sunscreens and bug-proof screen clothing instead of DEET • If fishing, never dump bait into a new body of water • Use a portable outback toilet, or outhouse when available, to help concentrate waste

For the month of August, while supplies last, drop by EcoSuperior and pick up a free reusable dry bag to keep your garbage in while you’re out adventuring. Limit one per family, please. By being conscious of our actions we can all enjoy our amazing trails!

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Available on:

The Walleye’s new monthly podcast featuring local influencers and game changers.

The Walleye

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Green

Large clump of Dahlia tubers

Dahlias

ET LET’S G G IN GROW EDY WITH H

By Hedy Koski

he beautiful blooms o f d a h l i a s a re t h e showpiece in any garden. There are many ways to grow dahlias. I met up with two people with very different ways to grow them. Planting tubers straight into the ground outside Each year, Stacey Anderson plants her tubers in the ground outside in early- to mid-May, depending on when the soil warms up, and they typically already have growth forming when she brings them up from her cold room in the basement. Her tubers are from the 60s and 70s, passed to her from her nana and uncle. She has been in charge of these tubers for over 10 years now and rarely splits them, which results in large tuber clumps, some weighing close to 10 pounds each. (Anderson has over 100 dahlia tubers; those large clumps are impressive.) She doesn’t seem to be

concerned about frost—she knows her large clumps will produce many stems and if some do get hit by frost, she knows more will come. When I ask her how she stores them, she explains that she just places them straight into black garbage bags and stores them in her cold room (no peat moss or vermiculite in the bags). Starting tubers early indoors In late March, I remove my tubers from cold storage (the ideal cold winter storage temperature is between five and 12 degrees Celsius), and pot them up inside, placing them in a warm location and watering them only once, then I don’t water them until they emerge (over-watering can rot them). Once they emerge, grow lights help, but a nice sunny window will work until you can harden them off outside in May or June.

Now, I only have 25 dahlias, and love them all. But I met Doug Jackson, who remarkably has 400! He stores his tubers in boxes layered in damp peat moss, ensuring they are not touching each other. He checks monthly during the winter, and if he finds the tubers are shrivelling, he moistens the peat moss slightly; this helps hydrate the tubers. Alternatively, if they’re too moist, he coats them in garden sulfur, which will help prevent them from rotting. Jackson also starts in March like me, but he lays his tubers in trays, barely covering them with slightly damp soil to wake them up after the cold storage. Once growth emerges, he plants them in large pots, where they remain the whole summer. Jackson uses regular potting mix with the addition of manure and vermiculite and recommends organic fertilizer (but nothing with high amounts of nitrogen).

When the frost kills the dahlia leaves at the end of the season, we all cut off the tops, dig them up, wash off the soil, and let them dry for a week or two before cold storage. But Jackson leaves his tubers in the ground for about a week after frost before removing them, so the tubers start forming new eyes—this helps him know where to split before storage. You can also split your tubers in the spring— the eyes are easier to see in the spring, but the tubers are much harder to cut. Jackson and I also take cuttings in the spring, dipping the end in a rooting hormone and placing them in soil and keeping them moist. He had 100 tubers last year, and now his 400 tubers will potentially turn into 1,600 next year and possibly 6,400 the following year, and so on.

Any way you grow dahlias you’ll be hooked— those flowers are absolutely gorgeous.

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Health

Quitting Is Not Always a Bad Thing

By Lindsay Watt, Health Promotion Planner, Thunder Bay District Health Unit

re you thinking of quitting smoking? STOP On the Net, an online program designed to help adults quit smoking, can help. Did you know that health benefits start almost instantly after quitting smoking cigarettes and will continue to benefit your health forever? Within the first hour of quitting, your blood pressure healthily lowers, your heart rate drops, and your body’s circulation may improve. Within the first few days of not smoking, the nicotine levels in your blood significantly decrease, your sense of taste and smell increases, and your oxygen levels start to rise. Within three months of quitting, your lung function improves, your circulation continues to get better, and your physical endurance improves. After one year of not smoking, your risk of coronary heart disease is cut by half, and the risk continues to drop. For the next several years, your risk of developing many types of cancer and diseases

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also significantly decreases and will continue to lower over the years. Finally, after 20 years of quitting smoking, the risk of dying from smoking-related causes becomes the same as a person who has never smoked before. Quitting smoking doesn’t have to be impossible. STOP on the Net is here to help. With this program, you may receive eight weeks of free treatment, including nicotine patches and lozenges/gum delivered right to you. To register, you must be 18 or older, live in Ontario, and be currently smoking tobacco cigarettes. You must also have a valid email address, be willing to attempt quitting smoking within 30 days of enrollment, and complete an online survey for the program. Please note that this program is not currently available to those who only use e-cigarettes. To learn more about STOP on the Net and to enroll, please visit stoponthenet.com.

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TheWall

What Can’t We Afford to Lose? Editorial by Marlene Wandel, Photo by Dylan Darbyson

he city budget is in the news every day, and it’s not a question of if services will be cut, but which ones. To budget for something generally means to plan for the future, to ensure it can happen. Talk of the budget currently is mostly the opposite. The City of Thunder Bay needs to find $700,000 in cuts to staffing. It employs around 1,300 people on a full-time basis, and details are light, but those savings appear to have already been found. The official line is that the rising need for emergency services is what is pinching the budget, and that an additional $1.5 million worth of savings should also be found in service cuts in other areas. Strangely, infrastructure spending like

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a new cruise ship dock, entirely inaccessible to the residents of Thunder Bay, never comes up. A glance at the proposed 2023 budget shows expenditure on community services was slated to decrease by 6.5% over last year (while the mayor, council and city manager’s office was projected to increase 2.9% over the same year. Perhaps a coincidence). City administration was tasked with delineating what to cut and has delivered a list; some of these have come and gone without too much fanfare. Vale Community Centre and Jumbo Gardens have been voted off the island, along with city-funded firework displays, future movie nights, and maintenance at a number of parkettes. It may well be that these particular expenses

were considered of little value to the community; aside from quoting maximum use at Vale Community Centre (12.5 hours/ week at peak use), not much has been offered in terms of rationale. It was noted that the two bus routes slated for elimination were among those with lowest ridership per hour, but what was perhaps overlooked (but not for long) is that the #6 route is the only bus that goes to Fort William First Nation. It’s possible the ridership info does not consider geography—surely one of the many managers, supervisors, directors, superintendents, and co-ordinators working for the city could have looked at a map, or picked up a telephone, before suggesting isolating FWFN from public transit. The list goes on; something

else has to give, and it’s starting to look like all the extra money has to come from the services that provide free, accessible outdoor recreation. As if reduction of playground programs sites and reduced hours at the two remaining outdoor pools were not enough, winter recreation faces the cold blade of the guillotine as well. The community backlash about the proposed elimination of 31 outdoor rinks and closure of the Neebing Memorial Arena could be called feedback in no uncertain terms. The next step is consultation. Shoot first and ask questions later. Surely the social cost of continually reducing access to services for the most vulnerable, whether by age, distance, or income, is also too

much of a cost to bear. The most cynical among us might see these proposed cuts as a further attempt to marginalize the most vulnerable. Those more generous of spirit might just see it as an oversight, an inability for those enjoying the privilege of income and security to understand who all the city services are for. Financial resources are finite, and the ultimate goal is to minimize the pain of increased taxes. Many of us have a household budget and understand the need to set priorities. Whether it’s a family or a city or a kid with some pocket money, setting a budget is about planning, accommodating the essentials, and evaluating what we can afford. At the community level, we also have to consider what we can’t afford to lose.

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The Walleye 115 2023-05-09 11:36 AM

AugustHoroscopes

Aries

(March 21– April 19) Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial for your well-being this month, Rams. As you channel your energy into various endeavours, be mindful of the toll it may take on your physical and mental health. Prioritize self-care and ensure you make time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you unwind. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will also contribute to your overall vitality. Take breaks when needed and don’t hesitate to seek support from loved ones. An outdoor festival is a grand time.

Taurus

(April 20–May 20) The warmth and beauty of the summer season is a full bounty indeed! The cosmos align in your favour, bringing a harmonious and serene energy into your life. This is a time for Bulls to indulge in the pleasures of life, nurture your relationships, and cultivate inner balance. Embrace the joys of summer and make the most of the abundant opportunities that come your way. Take advantage of the double full moon month to do some stargazing with your loved ones.

Gemini

(May 21–June 20) Swimming serves as a powerful metaphor for your well-being, reminding you of the importance of finding balance and fluidity in your physical and emotional health. Engaging in regular physical activity, including swimming or water-based exercises, will not only

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By Sunny Disposish

strengthen your body but also provide a sense of tranquility and release. Water has a soothing effect on your soul, helping you to navigate emotions and find inner peace. Take time for selfcare routines that allow you to recharge and rejuvenate. Listen to your intuition when it comes to your well-being, and honour your need for rest and relaxation.

Cancer

(June 21–July 22) The act of barbecuing brings people together, and Crabs love to excel at fostering connections and building a sense of community. Use this opportunity to gather your loved ones and create lasting memories around the grill. Engage in heartfelt conversations, share laughter, and embrace the joy of togetherness. Your natural ability to listen and provide emotional support will be appreciated, making the barbecue experience even more meaningful. The long weekend brings in a chance to make new friends.

Leo

(July 23– August 22) Happy solar retur n, Lions! As you celebrate your birthday, the universe showers you with abundance in various aspects of your life. Your positive energy and optimism attract opportunities for growth and prosperity. Embrace the abundance that comes your way, whether it's in the form of material wealth, fulfilling relationships, or personal achievements. This is a time to celebrate your accomplishments. Share your joy with others and spread the contagious

enthusiasm that defines you. Enjoy having your cake and eating it too.

Virgo

(August 23–

September 22) Your meticulous nature and dedication to your goals have set the stage for a bountiful harvest, Virgo. This is a time when your efforts begin to bear fruit, both in your professional endeavours and personal projects. Your attention to detail and practical approach have laid a solid foundation for success. Take a moment to celebrate your achievements, recognizing the progress you've made and the positive impact you've had on others. Embrace this season as a testament to your hard work and determination.

Libra

(September 23– October 22) The moon's influence amplifies your intuitive abilities this month, allowing you to tap into deeper realms of knowledge and understanding. Trust your instincts and listen to the whispers of your inner voice. Your intuition will guide you toward making choices that align with your truest self. Whether it's in matters of the heart, career decisions, or personal growth, your intuition serves as a valuable compass. Take time for solitude and introspection to connect with your intuition and let it illuminate your path. The new moon brings peace of mind around the 16th.

Scorpio

(October 23– November 21) Camping invites you to embrace your primal instincts and reconnect with your

inner wildness, Scorpions. Embrace the freedom to be spontaneous, to dance under the moonlight, and to feel the earth beneath your bare feet. Engage in adventurous activities, like hiking, swimming in natural bodies of water, or simply revelling in the joy of outdoor exploration. By embracing your wild side, you tap into your innate power and deepen your connection to the natural world.

Sagittarius

(November 22– December 21) Living your best life is infused with the power of optimism, Archers. Embrace a positive mindset that sees possibilities in every situation. Cultivate gratitude for the blessings that surround you and focus on the silver linings. Embodying optimism allows you to overcome challenges with resilience and approach life's ups and downs with grace. Your infectious optimism will inspire and uplift those around you, creating a harmonious and joyful environment. Take in a market with a pal and enjoy the local bounty.

Capricorn

(December 22– January 19) Innovation is the key to standing out in the competitive world of entrepreneurship, and your Capricorn practicality can be combined with your creative spirit to create innovative solutions. Embrace new technologies, trends, and ideas that can help you differentiate yourself from the competition. Continuously seek ways to improve and adapt your business model. By embracing innovation, you position yourself

a s a f o r w a rd - t h i n k i n g entrepreneur who can meet the evolving needs of your target market. Spend some time under the supermoon on the 30th.

Aquarius

(January 20– February 18) As a social butterfly, outdoor dining provides the perfect setting for Water-Bearers to connect with friends, family, and loved ones. Whether it's a picnic in the park, a barbecue by the beach, or a cosy gathering in your backyard, the ambiance of outdoor dining sets the stage for meaningful connections and shared moments. Embrace the joy of gathering with your loved ones, engaging in lively conversations, and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the long summer nights of the civic holiday.

Pisces

(February 19– March 20) As a natural-born artist, the dog days of summer provide the perfect canvas for your creative expression to flourish. Embrace your artistic passions, whether it's painting, writing, playing music, or any other form of creative outlet. Allow yourself to get lost in the flow of your imagination and let your creativity guide you towards new and exciting projects. By tapping into your creative wellspring, you unlock a sense of fulfillment and inspire others with your unique perspective. Don’t forget to make time for ice cream at your favourite spot.

Northern Summer

TheBeat

By Joan M. Baril

There is a wide beach, a square of mossy grass, a few birches and, behind the cottage, a road where the occasional car passes, its headlights invisible to the people on the deck, so dense is the bush back there. The deck edges the front of the camp whose high windows are brightly lit. Not far off, a small building issues smoke, grey and twisting. The people on the deck are happy; they are filled with glee. This is the way their day ends, where it should end, every day. Later, the children shout just before their overheated bodies hit the shock of cold water and the adults watch out for them as they splash to shore to run damp footed across the sand into the sauna to do it over again. On the way back, they check out the navy blue sky, the first splat of stars, a bonfire far up the beach and a tiny white cloud or is it a cloud or rather the first manifestations of the northern lights? “Could be,” one of the fathers says. He sits on the top shelf ready to expand his chest to take in the first wave of heat as a shot of water leaps to the rocks. His young sons sit lower down and the elder of the two, a twelve-year-old, an hour previous, and all by himself, started and stoked the fire in the adjoining room. They all think the same and the young ones think it too. This is the way it is. This northern life. Beyond words, beyond thought perhaps because they can’t define it against anything else. This is the only life they know. If you ask them, they would say they were lucky. For most of them, their everyday existence, school or work, has dropped away or become a sort of faded background to the beloved landscape which looms over everything, the endless forest outside and the big lake in front and a thousand other lakes they sense just over the horizon. Trees, water, and rock simmer just below their consciousness. In bed later, Marc thinks he forgot to praise his son for creating such a good sauna fire. Then close to sleep, breathing air so clean he can taste it, he hears his mother shout, “Come on out. They’re spectacular.” He and his wife step outside to encounter

a dancing dazzle above the bay. A half second later, long rays of green merge into the flickering white. “They’re better in the winter,” says Ed but the great-grandmother, leaning way back in her lawn chair says, “This is good enough for me.” A loon warbles. The twelve-year-old is shivering with cold but he won’t let himself feel it. He won’t go in yet. He is thin, a slight wiry fellow who will fill out later to look like his dad. When his father walks back inside, he follows and his dad says, “You made the perfect fire.” He wants to ask his dad to go fishing tomorrow but he knows there are plans to rebuild the old wood shed. He also knows that first thing in the morning, his dad will be making breakfast, the thin crepes they call Finn pancakes and he will slather on butter and maple syrup and eat them until his gut is stuffed. And he knows his Uncle Ed will rake out the ashes, hang up all the towels, and sweep out the change room and then put the lawn chairs down on the beach. His greatgrandmother, who they call GG, will wait until the weather heats up a bit and then swim and swim until she goes up to the camp for another coffee. His mother and his aunt Vi will take their coffees and lawn chairs to the water’s edge to watch the little cousins play in the sand. The important thing is that Aunt Cheryl is bringing the blueberries, four large baskets she bought from a street vendor near where she lives. She totes other things too, like the usual bottles of wine and bags of chips and cheesies to put by if his other grandmother or more cousins show up. The boy plans to steal handfuls of blueberries and stuff them down his throat. He and his brother will swim too. But he is mulling over a new idea for the secret tree house. Perhaps they can make a bench from those old boards behind the sauna. He is sure they can hoist it up with ropes. Uncle Ed comes in for this morning coffee. “It’s going to be a hot one,” he says.

Northern Summer, digital illustration, boy Roland

The Walleye

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A kite surfer at Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area on a mid-July evening. Photo by Anna Buske

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DEEPLY CONNECTED TO THE WATER

visitthunderbay.com 1-800-MOST-FUN (667-8386) The Walleye

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Built to last. Right from the start.

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