February 2021 by The Walleye Magazine

FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 12 No. 2 MUSIC FEBRUARY FOOD 2021 CULTURE thewalleye.ca

Warm Up to Winter

FRESH MADE TO ORDER 24

BONDING THROUGH BEADING 40

FINDING A POCKETFUL OF STARS 66

THE FACTS ABOUT VACCINES 83

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Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre – Challenging, Welcoming, and Fun Meet Actor Sarah Hughes By Janine Chiasson

he was one of the first Eleanor Drury munchkins, brought flair to Cinderella’s fashion fairy godmother, portrayed a muse in The Odyssey, and added many more roles through her eight years with Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre; now actor Sarah Hughes has a repertoire that’s pretty astounding considering she’s in Grade 12 at St Ignatius High School. Like other participants, Sarah loves how Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre (EDCT) lets the cast and crew take over right from the start. “In the summer, we meet to go over the script and make modifications,” she explains, “then we put our own twist on every show to make it our own. It’s tailored just to us – not to anyone else.” One year, this resulted in a modern themed Cinderella. “I was a fashion godmother with my own talk show and our director, Aleksa Shermack, photoshopped me onto the set of Ellen and I started dancing on a trampoline in slow motion,” Sarah recounts. “It was crazy.” And last year, the EDCT crew managed to condense The Odyssey into just over an hour while lowering the “gory scale” as Sarah puts it. “The actual play would not be at all suitable for children. We changed the original play’s cannibals into Nonnas who feed their victims food laden with poison, stuff them into a giant pierogi, and then eat them.” Delicious.

For the first couple of gatherings in the fall, the cast and crew meet, get to know each other, then participate in auditions where directors see what the kids can do. At this point, EDCT has a unique and positive approach, “There is no cap,” Sarah emphasizes. “We have roles for everyone, or if we don’t, we make roles.” New parts are added, scenes changed or deleted, sets imagined and reimagined, costumes envisioned – all based on children’s input. Everything comes together because, as Sarah states, “We all help each other. Lots of parent volunteers rally our young children so nothing goes too ballistic. Backstage and onstage, we’re all just one big family.” Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre is an amazing opportunity for children to come together from across and outside the city to make lifelong friendships and learn about all aspects of theatre. Sarah talks about her start at age nine when she got on stage with no idea what she was doing. But over the years she says, “my knowledge grew of the stage, how backstage works, and how set design works – which is like an insane process – and the struggle of learning lines when they keep increasing. But it’s all worth it once you get on stage.” For Sarah, her personal growth happens because the EDCT family encourages and accepts everyone – newcomers included. “I would be so different if I didn’t do theatre,” Sarah shares. “I’ve become so much more confident speaking in front of people. On stage, playing all these roles, many aspects of yourself and your fellow cast are revealed. Theatre breaks people out of their shell.”

Sarah and the rest of the crew are thankful for sponsors like Tbaytel who support Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre and keep their stage alive. “Even though you can act for yourself – like singing in the shower or putting on concerts for a pretend audience,” Sarah says, “even if it’s a small audience, even two people, you know someone is enjoying it with you.” When asked if she’ll keep doing theatre, Sarah replies without a shred of hesitation, “Oh, for sure. Until I’m too old to do it. Never.”

EDCT Goes Virtual During COVID Based on an Oscar Wilde theme, 2020 first-term programming saw cast members exploring verbatim theatre, filming skits, and developing monologues. Starting in January 2021, kids will explore acting for film; music and movement; and visual production techniques like puppetry and claymation; culminating in an online Wilde Life performance, to be staged in person when COVID status allows. Support Youth Live Theatre! EDCT is a registered Canadian charity bringing accessible live theatre to children and youth in Thunder Bay. Interested sponsors are encouraged to contact EDCT directly (details on Facebook); everyone can make online donations through CanadaHelps.org.

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Contents ■9

TheTOPFive FEATURES

■ 11 ■ 12

Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Interim Editor Matt Prokopchuk matt@thewalleye.ca Assistant Editor Rebekah Skochinski Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Bonnie Schiedel

Marketing & Sales Specialists Kaitlin Trevisan kaitlin@thewalleye.ca Alaina Linklater alaina@thewalleye.ca Photographers Patrick Chondon, Kevin Dempsey, Damien Gilbert, Aelin Foster, Chad Kirvan, Dave Koski, Kay Lee, Shannon Lepere, Marty Mascarin, Darren McChristie, Sarah McPherson, Laura Paxton, Keegan Richard

THE SECOND MOST PLEASURABLE THING WE DO IN THE DARK. A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES Undercurrents of Creativity

■ 33

THE ARTS

■ 34 ■ 37

■ 44

Superior Outdoors Inc. 242 - 1100 Memorial Avenue Thunder Bay, ON P7B 4A3

■ 31

Staying Engaged FROM THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION Art is Ceremony, Art is Life Bonding Through Beading Beading is Medicine

OUTDOOR

Copyright © 2021 by Superior Outdoors Inc. Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.

THE GRINNING BELLY DRINK OF THE MONTH BREW IT YOURSELF Fresh Made to Order SUPERIOR SIP A New Beginning

■ 38 ■ 40 ■ 42

Ad Designers Dave Koski, Keegan Richard, Miranda van den Berg

Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission is strictly forbidden. Views expressed herein are those of the author exclusively.

■ 20 ■ 21 ■ 23 ■ 24 ■ 26 ■ 28

FOOD

FILM&THEATRE

Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D., Dave Koski, R.G.D. production@thewalleye.ca

The Walleye is a free monthly publication distributed on racks throughout Thunder Bay and region.

■ 14 ■ 16 ■ 18 ■ 19

Embracing Winter A Chance for Others to Touch the Sky The Lowdown on Sliding Down Dress for Success Wanna Sauna? A Day on the (Frozen) Water

A Slippery Slope

CITYSCENE

■ 46 ■ 48 ■ 50

Postponing to Next Year STUFF WE LIKE EYE TO EYE: With Greg Chomut ■ 52 Some Much-Needed Assistance ■ 53 THIS IS THUNDER BAY ■ 54 WALL SPACE: The Art of Cross-Country Grooming

■ 56 ■ 57

■ 58 ■ 59 ■ 60

Ice Ice Baby GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET Gear Up for Continued Success CANNABIS CORNER Honouring Survivors

MUSIC

■ 63 Close to the Heart ■ 64 BURNING TO THE SKY ■ 65 Shared Image ■ 66 Finding a Pocketful of Stars ■ 69 Peace in Trouble ■ 70 After Effects ■ 73 Lindsey Herle ■ 74 OFF THE WALL REVIEWS ARCHITECTURE

■ 76 Mount Baldy Ski Chalet ■ 78 Tbaytel FEBRUARY

EVENTS GUIDE

■ 79 LU RADIO'S

MONTHLY TOP 30 HEALTH

■ 80 ■ 82 ■ 83

Staying the Course The Logistics of a Pandemic The Facts about Vaccines

■ 84 ■ 85

Sprouting Up So, You Want to Ride Your Bike in the Winter?

GREEN

THE WALL

■ 86 The Cold, Hard Truth ■ 88 HOROSCOPES ■ 89 THE BEAT ■ 90 THE EYE

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Telephone (807) 344-3366 Fax (807) 623-5122 E-mail: info@thewalleye.ca

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From Our Instagram Feed

Rays of Sunshine

he winter months can be difficult for some at the best of times, and with the uncertainty of the pandemic still very much front and centre in our lives—including a second lockdown and restrictions on social gatherings—that sense of winter isolation can feel much more acute. On the positive side, however, the days are getting noticeably longer, and in Northwestern Ontario we have a multitude of options for embracing the coldest months of the year, even while following public health guidelines. This is the focus of our February issue: embracing winter in the north. In our cover story, Justin Allec speaks with local ski jumping legend Steve Collins about his efforts to revive the sport’s strong tradition in the area, while Bonnie Schiedel gets some expert tips on how to really properly dress for the weather, and Sara Sadeghi Aval gives us the rundown (or is that the slidedown?) of some of the Thunder Bay area’s best sledding hills to check out. Keeping with this theme, Chef Rachel Globensky has some tips for a great snack to take while ice fishing in her

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column, while in our Wall Space feature, Tiffany Jarva learns more about the grooming and snow-making operations at the Kamview Nordic Centre. And outdoor columnist Jesse Milani takes us on an ice climb out at Orient Bay, on Lake Nipigon. Elsewhere in the issue, drink columnist Jeannie Dubois has some very creative cocktails that can be made with foraged northern Ontario plant life, Roxann Shapwaykeesic has the story of how beadwork led Annette Klement to discovering her Ojibway heritage, and Sarah Kerton learns more about the cancellation of a winter staple, the Sleeping Giant Loppet. Plus, we have the story of longtime local musician Kyle Shushack and his battle with COVID-19. So, as the days get longer but winter continues to remind us that it’s here for a while longer, we hope you’ll find something in our February issue that entertains and informs—and perhaps inspires you to try something a little bit different this year. - Matt Prokopchuk

In Error

The results of our Best of 2020 survey incorrectly stated that Cosimo Salerno works at Trenz Hair Studio & Day Spa instead of Cosimo's Barber Shop.

Featured Contributor Kaitlin Trevisan Kaitlin is part of the Marketing and Sales team at The Walleye. She has an eye for detail, a flair for marketing techniques, and a love for connecting with TBay’s local business owners. During this crazy year, Kaitlin and her boyfriend purchased their first home. On any given day you can find her up to her neck in drywall dust and with paint splatters in her hair. When the dust has settled and the paint is actually on the walls, you can find her walking her dogs, or enjoying some of the city’s amazing local food with a glass of wine in hand.

On the Cover An après ski, backyard bonfire Photo by Darren McChristie

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Banff Film Festival Virtual World Tour

Ongoing

Virtual

Pop the popcorn and settle into your comfiest chair. The Banff Film Festival is online for some #epicadventuresindoors, featuring skiing and snowboarding adventures and the personal stories of inspiring people. Far Far Est is a short Québecois film about two explorers’ love of skiing and surfing on the North American east coast. In Voice Above Water, you will meet Wayan, a 90-year-old fisherman who can no longer fish because of the amount of plastic piling up in the ocean; he must use his fishing boat to haul trash in hopes he can fish again. And Slack Sisters follows four female highliners who share the wisdom they’ve gained from the sport. Films are offered in two separate programs or as a bundle; prices in USD. filmfest.banffcentre.ca

Craft Cares

Until February 14 Various

Want to drink your beer and give back too? Now, you can! As part of Craft Cares, which is happening right now until Valentine’s Day, with every purchase of a Sleeping Giant Brewing product sold at participating restaurants, 50 cents will be donated to local charities and organizations. You can also try out SGBC’s newly released Craft Cares beer—a dry-hopped, easydrinking ale with a fruity aroma and a hefty dose of blackcurrant that gives a tart and fruity finish. It’s available in a tall can, four pack, or pack of 24. Make sure to check out the website for a full list of participating vendors and their corresponding charities. Order some food, a thirst-quenching brew or two, and help support the community, one beer at a time! sleepinggiantbrewing.ca/craftcares

4 Fiber February February 1–28

North House Folk School/Virtual It’s Fiber February! Embrace the warmth and wonder of fibre crafts all month long by participating in online courses and webinars from North House Folk School. Explore craft traditions from knitting and skinfell to felting and sprang. Join Linda Johnson-Morke for the Wonders and Ways with Wool webinar, which takes a scientific look at fibres from different breeds of sheep and the ways that various cultures have been influenced by wool. Sign up to make needle felted critters like a cardinal, mouse, or snowy owl. Fashion your own felted crocheted wool rug and learn about Sámi knitting traditions, which will delve into the knitting motifs of the Skolt Sámi, by making some birch leaves mittens. Be sure to sign up soon, as the courses are filling up fast! northhouse.org

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Thunder Bay Museum Virtual Exhibits

Virtual Make the most of your screen time this month by seeing what the Thunder Bay Museum has to offer! Explore the art of an artist, mapmaker, and illustrator Hans Krakhofer. Delve deep into Thunder Bay’s past places like the historic Algoma Hotel and the famed Chapples building. Take an illustrated history of the city’s east end. Gather round the kids for A Tail of Two Cities, which sees Jerry Muskrat visiting the museum to discover the history of Fort William and Port Arthur. Take the Visions of our Past quiz. Or check out our personal favourite, Objects of Interest, which includes artifacts chosen by staff and students from the museum. Peruse items that are unique, historic, and everything in between. thunderbaymuseum.com

Family Day

February 15

Various

We’ve all been spending more time with our families lately, but that doesn’t mean Family Day can’t be special. Pack a snack and go for a winter’s hike. Dig out your snowshoes and try an urban trek in Chapples Park or on one of the trails at Centennial. Strap on skis and head to Kamview, Lappe, Kakabeka, or Tapiola for fantastic cross country skiing opportunities all a short drive away. Make a snow family in the yard and some hot cocoa for afterwards. Visit other neighbourhoods. You don’t have to venture far to have an adventure! And just in case the lockdown is lifted, be sure to check out activities offered by the City of Thunder Bay. Happy Family Day from The Walleye family to yours!

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CoverStory

Warm Up to Winter We don’t just get through winter in northern Ontario—we embrace it wholeheartedly. We welcome the subzero temperatures, the thick blankets of snow, and the access to pristine frozen lakes. Winter allows us to appreciate the peaceful palettes of the coldest season by snowshoeing among white-capped evergreens, scaling small mountains on skis, dropping a line to catch fish, and rewarding ourselves with a good hot steam in a sauna when the day is done. It’s a wonderland of experiences from the simple to the sublime, and we hope this cover story inspires you to get out there and make the most of it!

Keegan Richard

-Rebekah Skochinski

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Darren McChristie

CoverStory

Steve Collins at Mount Baldy

A young skier tries out a jump at Mount Baldy

A Chance for Others to Touch the Sky Steve Collins Looking to Revive Ski Jumping for Local Youth By Justin Allec

here were a lot of difficult things to accept when Big Thunder shut down in 1996. For Steve Collins, a former professional ski jumper from Fort William First Nation, Big Thunder’s closure meant that northern Ontario missed out on developing two generations of alpine athletes. Having competed in three Olympic Games and spent a decade on the World Cup

circuit, Collins is concerned about the future of his favoured sport. “Especially for our First Nations kids,” he says. “A lot of them don’t get a chance to go skiing anymore. Mount McKay, Candy Mountain, all these places have closed.” Accessibility and cost of equipment can be prohibitive, so Collins is trying to help revive ski jumping by starting small and local.

of alpine sports and a long-time friend of Collins, reached out to offer his hill as a possible local avenue. Right now, the plan is to build and maintain a “small” jump— meaning 10 to 15 meters from takeoff to landing—at Baldy in order to generate interest in the sport. This jump can be taken on normal downhill skis but it will help give people a taste of how far they could go in the sport. Since Kardas took over Baldy four years ago, he’s been looking for ways to increase the profile of alpine sports in the Thunder Bay area, both for locals and as a destination. “We can have snow on the hill by late October, early November. Development teams from southern Ontario are currently traveling to Alaska at that time to train; I want to bring them here,” Kardas says,

Steve Collins at the Lahti Ski Games in 1980

Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Steve Collins at the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid, New York

Collins says he got involved in ski jumping and eventually became a champion because he had chances to watch the sport as well as participate. He still laughs at the idea of a teenager from Fort William tearing up hills across Europe, but it wouldn’t have happened at all if he hadn’t been exposed to the sport. Alpine sports such as ski jumping used to be ingrained into Thunder Bay’s winter activities, Collins says. “At this early point we need to get kids to the hill, […] kids from Fort William, kids from town who have never seen ski jumping.” To instigate change, the jumping veteran has started preliminary discussions with Ski Jumping Canada to support the development of the sport in smaller areas. Mount Baldy’s owner/operator Dan Kardas, himself also a veteran

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Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

CoverStory

Opening Ceremonies at the FIS Pre-World Championships at Big Thunder in 1994 Ski jumping action at Big Thunder in 1994 referring to an experience he had earlier this year when he invited the Canadian freestyle training team to Baldy. Increasing the profile of the area by bringing in advanced skiers would help with that exposure necessary to pique a beginner’s passion. Kardas points to the renewed popularity of skiing in terrain parks as an indicator that people are willing and wanting to take skiing in different

directions, and ski jumping should be one of them. Collins stresses that the whole project is still beginning. Bi-weekly discussions are happening with Ski Jumping Canada, and Kardas has ensured that the work will happen at Baldy to at least provide a starting point for the revival. Collins still has a faint hope for Big Thunder to re-open its doors,

since it already has the infrastructure and jumps established, but he’s more interested in what can be built during the next phase of alpine sports in Thunder Bay. It’s obviously a difficult time to start any kind of initiative, but Collins has faith that we’ll see skiers flying high again in the next few years.

Steve in flight. Team competition Calgary Olympics, 1988

 Steve Collins (boy at right) beside Fort William First Nation Chief Howard Bannon at the opening of Mount McKay Ski Area's Big Chief chairlift in 1974; Collins is wearing regalia made by his grandmother

 Steve Collins in Japan in 1981

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CoverStory

 Our second stop was just up the road at Hillcrest Park. Known for some

of the best views in the heart of the city, Hillcrest Park’s slope is not for more novice sliders or the weak at heart. As it is the steepest of the hills, a sledder must remain cool and collected till the very end of the run. We recommend an extra scarf of goggles for this spot, because once you fly, so will the snow. Don’t forget to race back up!

 Stop number one was Balsam Pit Park. A classic spot long-loved by locals,

many frequent the hill for its large play space and easy access; it’s only a few steps away from Superior Collegiate & Vocational Institute. Older sledders also enjoy this spot for its fast but smooth slides. We recommend hitting Balsam Pit after a fresh layer of snow falls with any sled of your choice. “A metal garbage can lid works just as well,” says slider Natasha Gray.

The Lowdown on Sliding Down The Walleye’s 2021 Slope Crawl

Story by Sara Sadeghi Aval, Photos by Keegan Richard

his month, we decided to shine a light on a popular winter activity: sliding. We hit six neighbourhood locations in Thunder Bay to give you the full (snow) scoop on where to slide.

Whether you’re a beginner slider or a seasoned veteran of the hills, these slopes are for you. Please remember to follow all pandemic rules and regulations when sliding at your favourite spot.

Start your own Slope Crawl! Hashtag SlopeCrawl2021 to share your favourite slopes with us.

 Stop number three was Prospect Hill, and a childhood memory for a few of

our sledders, including Georgia Wilkins, who says that “the toilet bowl in the middle of the slope was the standout” during her toddler sledding days, referring to a part of the hill that forms a steep crevice. Indeed, the toilet bowl looks daunting from the top, but fear not, Prospect offers gentler slopes too. Bring your hot chocolate to enjoy on the benches in between runs.

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CoverStory

Remembering Thunder Bay’s Toboggan Runs By Matt Prokopchuk

 Next, we headed over to The Courthouse Hotel, which won everyone’s

heart with cherry trees at the top and a beautiful view all around. If you live near the downtown north side, this is the slope for you. Young or old can enjoy sliding here with a plastic sled of your choice, although slider Tyler recommends the round disks for “maximum spin near the end and no brakes.”

 On the south side of town, we visited Chapples Park—and yes, there is a

slope there. Located a stone’s throw away from the International Friendship Gardens, Chapples Park features a large circular slope near the tennis facilities. If you have a family of sledders, make this your first choice. With enough room for chairs and a blanket, and even more for sled trains, Chapples Park is a must.

While Thunder Bay boasts a number of fun hills in the city to slide down, thrill-seekers of a different generation had another option that no longer exists today: the municipal toboggan runs. These constructed, separated tracks or chutes that were manually flooded and frozen like an ice rink were built on hills at Centennial and Chippewa Parks in the 1960s. Iain Angus remembers them well. The current secretary and project manager of the Friends of Chippewa Park (he’s also a former city park planner and, later, city councillor) also worked at Chippewa, running the concessions and renting out toboggans, for about five years in the late 60s. The five-chute run at Chippewa ran down a slope that was artificially built up specifically for that use, Angus says. Riders would line up in their sleds five-across (one toboggan per chute), at the top, behind a small, ground-level barrier. When the coast was clear at the bottom, a park attendant would release the barriers, sending the sliders’ toboggans hurtling down the icy tracks. When the park was

less busy, Angus, says, riders could use the chutes without someone operating them. The toboggan runs at Chippewa were shut down in the late 1970s or very early 1980s, according to Angus. “Unfortunately, that was one of the first [of] the budget cuts,” he says. “In order to save the labour costs, they eliminated the facility, even though it was still well used.” Centennial’s chutes were also eventually closed. At Chippewa, the hill on which the tracks were built was also flattened back down, virtually eliminating sliding there; it continues on the snow-covered hills at Centennial Park to this day. The toboggan runs were very popular in their day, Angus says, adding that he was also responsible for operating a small sound system that played music in Chippewa Park’s sliding area. It’s something he looks back fondly on now. “I do remember, as an adult with my own kids visiting my mom and living out there, that we’d have toboggan parties,” he says. “Families would be at my mom’s place and then head up for an hour or so, then come back for supper.”

Last but not least, we visited the smallest of our slopes, at Northwood Playfield. Right across the hockey rink at the Kinsmen Centre, there lies a small hill that can be easily missed. But once you slide down on your stomach, you’ll forget the height and want to do it over and over and over again. Best for the younger sledders.

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CoverStory

Dress for Success

Here’s What to Keep in Mind for Staying Warm Outdoors

Story by Bonnie Schiedel, Photos by Keegan Richard

oseph Duncan-Leutschaft spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter, whether he’s snowshoeing, ice climbing, or spending three days winter camping as an educator with the outdoor rec program at Lakehead University. Over the years, he’s figured out what works well for staying warm and dry no matter what the weather throws at him. His starting point was learning from relatives and elders while he was growing up in Muskrat Dam First Nation. “In the winter, on the lake and in the bush, one of the things they emphasized was [about] moisture and sweating, because it can become a major issue,” he says. “That still sticks with me today and [is] something that I practice.” Loose layers, and choosing materials that keep you warm but still allow moisture to escape, are both essential to keep you from becoming dangerously chilled and tired. Duncan-Leutschaft wears a mix of traditional materials used by Indigenous peoples for untold years, and modern gear. “I’ve always thought it was a good idea if you combined the materials,” he says. And of course, it’s important to know the conditions and the forecast and plan your gear from there. Here’s what he would typically wear for a day out at -15°C or colder, with the ability to take off or put on layers as needed.

Face covering On cold and windy days, Duncan-Leutschaft wears a neoprene face covering, which helps keep the cold out. His accumulated breath does make it wet, but it dries quickly when tucked under his arm when he takes a break

Scarf Made from extra-light cotton, this oversized scarf is called a “shemagh.” While heavier cotton is a gear “don’t” because it remains wet, this is light enough so that it doesn’t stay damp. It’s traditionally worn in the Middle East to keep off sun and sand.

Base layers Duncan-Leutschaft wears long-sleeved long underwear shirt and pants, both made from thin merino wool, which wicks away sweat. “There is really no itching! It’s comfortable material, and it helps regulate your body temperature, just like some of the Indigenous materials.”

Socks and boots Duncan-Leutschaft wears wool socks—just one pair because doubling up means compression and losing that insulating dead air—followed by his auntie’s moose hide moccasins that almost reach his knees. The moccasins are a size larger than his usual shoe size, again to trap insulating air. He then sticks store-bought heated liners into his overshoe-style boots, which are waterproof and have gaiters at the top to keep out the snow. (After much searching, he recommends NEOS Navigator 5.)

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CoverStory Hat Duncan-Leutschaft's auntie Floria Beardy of Muskrat Dam First Nation made his hat, using traditional methods with moose hide and beaver fur from animals her husband hunted or trapped. “I like that you can pull down the beaver fur [brim and ear flaps] to add insulation to your face,” he says. Furs naturally repel moisture from snow and rain, and also trap air (called “dead air”) around the strands to create a blanket of insulation.

Sun Protection “I like mountaineering glasses compared to regular sunglasses,” says Duncan-Leutschaft. “They have the protections on the side so you don’t have sun seeping through inside your sunglasses,” adding that the sun reflecting off snow can be intense. He also chooses polarized lenses for protection from the sun.

Mitts and gloves Duncan-Leutschaft wears microfibre ice climbing gloves, topped with his auntie’s moose hide gauntlet mitts trimmed with wolf fur. This layering means there’s an air layer in the mitt to keep your hands warm, he says. Moose or deer hide is desirable because it naturally repels moisture (especially if braintanned using traditional Indigenous methods) and stays supple in the cold. He tucks a store-bought charcoal handwarmer, activated by oxygen, into each mitt for about six hours of extra warmth too.

Jackets and pants Duncan-Leutschaft bought a down jacket in a size larger than he usually wears, which creates conditions for that all-important layer of insulating air. Down is light and warm. A breathable and waterproof shell jacket and pants go over top, to keep out the wind and allow moisture to escape.

Sweater A wool sweater goes over top of his base layer, again to keep in warmth.

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CoverStory

The inside of one of Cedar Sauna’s units

Ryan Christian, a co-owner of Cedar Sauna and Rentals

Wanna Sauna?

New Rental Business is Heating Up Story by Bonnie Schiedel, Photos by Keegan Richard

n March 2020, about a week before the pandemic kicked in locally, Leo St-Cyr and Ryan Christian launched their business, Cedar Sauna and Rentals. “We have always been passionate about saunas and the health benefits. And living in Thunder Bay, we’ve grown up around a lot of saunas,” says StCyr. “We just decided to put one on a trailer and see how we’d do renting it out. And then from there, it escalated.” A portable sauna, rented by the day, weekend, or week, is definitely

an appealing business concept in Thunder Bay, no matter what year it is. But when you combine that idea with an entire northwest region that needs to stay home for months on end, the demand soared. Rental customers began asking if they could buy a sauna, and so St-Cyr and Christian now offer two different models in four different sizes, including a classic barrel design and the popular “birdhouse” design, which features slanted walls. “We just started building in my driveway,” says St-Cyr. “We bought up

A portable sauna in the “birdhouse” design

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every piece of cedar we could find.” They also started taking custom orders. While the company remains a side project for Christian and StCyr, who are both employed fulltime elsewhere, it employs two carpenters, Rory Okerlund and Duc Nguyen. The sauna stoves are welded locally as well. So far, Cedar Saunas has sold about 40 saunas all over the northwest, from Thunder Bay to Kenora to Manitouwadge, and the three rental units are booked about a month ahead. Rental fees range from $150 per day or $1,300 a month. What’s coming next? Wood-fired hot tubs! As for those sauna health benefits: the medical journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings refers to several studies

that suggest regular saunas are linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and high blood pressure, as well as soothing pain from rheumatic disease and headaches. And for a lot of people, saunas and winter simply go together beautifully. “Everybody likes to get out of the cold and into the warm,” notes St-Cyr, adding that with more people than ever heading outdoors to snowshoe, ice fish, or ski, a soothing sauna is a good reward for tired muscles. “Everybody’s getting outside. And I mean, there’s not much else going on. So at a time like this, it’s just nice to have something pulled up into your yard that you can enjoy with the family.” For more information, visit cedarsaunaandrentals.com.

Submitted by Brodie Kenna

CoverStory

Brodie Kenna

A brook trout caught north of Thunder Bay

A Day on the (Frozen) Water

Lake Superior Ice Fishing a Favourite for Local Outdoors Blogger Story by Matt Prokopchuk, Photos by Brodie Kenna

hile Brodie Kenna has spent his entire life embracing the northern Ontario outdoors, the creator and owner of the popular NWO Outdoors blog says he took up ice fishing later than many of his other favourite pursuits. Kenna, now 34, says he didn’t start going out onto the region’s lakes in the winter months to fish until his late teenage years. The initial hesitation, he says, was due to what he calls “a healthy fear”

of being on the ice when he was a child, adding that “until you spend some time on it and understand that it is—and can be—safe, it does seem a little off-putting, the idea of standing on a frozen lake.” When Kenna met a friend in high school who was into ice fishing and he grew to be more comfortable on the frozen water, however, he was hooked. “That changed winter forever from that point on.” That joy is now being passed down, as Kenna says he often takes

A northern pike caught on Lac des Mille Lacs

his nine-year-old son Kayden out with him, and while the young angler is always excited to go, he also spends plenty of time during outings with his dad and family friends keeping himself busy in other ways, like “running around, following animal tracks and throwing snowballs at me,” Kenna says. “You need something during the winter,” he adds. “You need to be getting outside.” When asked what his favourite lake is to fish on, the experienced angler doesn’t hesitate a moment. “100% would be Lake Superior,” he says. “Just the size of it, the history of it, the number of species [of fish] that exist in the lake, the sizes the fish can get to—it just has this wonder that comes along with it because you really never know what you’re going to catch.” Kenna says that, depending on winter conditions, however, it can be more difficult to get on the lake, as it doesn’t always freeze up enough. “Last

winter, I never even got on to the lake at all to ice fish it, which was very unfortunate.” He adds that his favourite fish to catch in the winter include whitefish (they’re relatively easy to find and “they taste great”), lake herring (they usually school together, meaning “you could be sitting over a school of 50 fish underneath your feet”), and steelhead ( just a personal favourite). And finally, Kenna says having some form of shelter and heat source can really be the difference between a fun day on the ice and a miserable one, adding that, when he first started, he would just leave himself open to the elements. “I used to do that, just sit on a bucket in the freezing wind in the middle of a lake, and for some reason I used to have this idea that made me tougher or a more dedicated fisherman,” he says. “But I will tell you, as the years have gone on, I have quickly lost that attitude.”

Kenna’s nine-year-old son Kayden waits for a bite

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Food

fishing, says he likes to eat some sort of sausagey-potatoey hash on the ice. Okay, now we’re getting somewhere! With this recipe, you can either prep it, cook it, and bring it in a thermos, or heat it up on the ice.

Or, you can prep the ingredients and cook it out there. You can eat it in a bowl or wrap it in a tortilla while you keep an eye on your line. Whatever floats your boat, or keeps you fueled up.

Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet serves 4

1 lb potato gnocchi (*or about 4 c cooked, diced potatoes)

THE GRINNING BELLY

1 lb Italian sausage, removed from its casing 2 Tbsp olive oil

Let Minnow If You’re Hungry By Chef Rachel Globensky

f my brother Dan could spend all day every day fishing, he would. Winter, summer, hiking, camping—no matter the season or activity, Dan’s fishing stuff is always packed. He’s been hunched over his line on Whitefish Lake with -35°C blizzardy winds coming at him sideways, and he was fishing from a canoe on Roundtable Lake when the tornado hit in ‘99. Dan has definitely met his match for love of fishing (and everything else) with his wife, Stacey. They bring the girls and the dog out in most weather to drop a line in. When I asked Dan about what his fam likes to eat whilst ice fishing, he shrugged and said, “Nothing fancy—maybe sandwiches and stuff.” As a foodie, I was somewhat appalled, because most of my excursions centre around food, with activities thrown in around! For an

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1 c cubed zucchini or bell peppers 1 c chopped onions 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp basil

afternoon of ice fishing, I would absolutely bring something I could either cook on the ice or heat up easily. Potentially soggy, but definitely cold sandwiches? No thanks, Tom Hanks. To get some ideas, I looked at some online IceShanty.com forums, and the general consensus was that premade items heated on-ice using your cooker was the way to go. I read about perking fresh coffee (Baileys optional), and cooking omelets in a bag (place your preferred omelet ingredients in a doubled-up zippie bag, seal the bags up, and then dip the whole shebang in a pot of boiling water). One guy described a venison roast he was planning to braise with vegetables, on a camp stove, on the ice (buddy—how long are you planning to be out there??). My fiancé, Shawn, also a lover of

1 tsp oregano 1 tsp rosemary 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 c chopped fresh tomatoes

Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Set aside and keep warm. (*If using potatoes, fry them in pan after browning sausage.) Brown over medium heat, breaking up large clumps into bite-sized pieces. Drain any excess fat.

Add oil to pan. Sauté zucchini or peppers and onions until translucent and soft.

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, spices, garlic, and tomatoes, and cook 4–5 minutes longer, until heated through. Stir in cooked gnocchi and fold gently to incorporate. Season with salt, pepper, and more olive oil if you’d like.

NOW BOOKING MICRO WEDDINGS

Food

DRINK OF THE MONTH

Frosted Cinnamon Roll Mocha Bianca Calico Coffeehouse

Story by Rebekah Skochinski, Photo by Chondon Photography

fter so much uncertainty, it brings us some comfort to know we can count on the arrival of Valentine’s Day. Regardless of how we’re able to celebrate this year, the day serves as a good reminder of who and what we hold dear. One such place is Calico Coffeehouse—a beloved fixture on Bay Street, who we regularly rely on to quell our caffeine cravings and to supply us with superb baking indulgences like mouth-watering scones, crostatas, or cookies. This month, they have a new item on the menu to try as a to-go treat. The Frosted Cinnamon Roll Mocha Bianca is a delicious creation that features white mocha, espresso, cinnamon, and caramel. It’s topped with a heady amount of whipped cream, plus extra sprinkled cinnamon and drizzled caramel on top. It’s just what Cupid ordered! Also available half-sweet, iced, half-calf, or with soy or almond milk. Whatever your heart desires.

Calico Coffeehouse 316 Bay Street 766-9087

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To learn more about what we’re doing this Valentine’s Day, including our takeout options, visit thekeg.com.

735 Hewitson Street | 807.623.1960 Thunder Bay Walleye Ad_Feb2021_8.25x5.1_v5.indd 2

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Breweries of the North A Look at Northern Ontario’s Brewing Tradition By Josh Armstrong, PhD, Certified Beer Judge

ere in northern Ontario, it seems like we have always enjoyed drinking beer. It goes well with all the things we like, including hockey (playing or watching), hiking, skiing, festivals, and other outdoor fun. Currently, we have three breweries in Thunder Bay and a total of 17 brewing companies scattered across the northern regions of the province (see Table 1). Prior to COVID19’s disruption, northern Ontario beer festivals such as BrewHa! at the Thunder Bay waterfront and the annual Northern Ontario Microbrew Festival in Sudbury celebrated all of the brews produced in the province’s northern regions. We have not always had local craft beer around these parts. During the late 90s and much of the 2000s, beer was simply brewed elsewhere. Here in Thunder Bay, the drought of locally produced beer ended in 2007 when a small brewery known as Great White North Craft Brewery opened on Red River Road. Headed by Geoff Schmidt, the brewing operation produced Port Arthur Pale Ale, but he only operated the business until the end of 2008. The city then remained without a local brewery until Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. first opened their doors in 2012. They were followed by Dawson Trail Craft Brewery in 2016 and One Time Brew Co. in 2020. It looks like 2021 will bring us a fourth brewery in the city: Lakehead Beer Co. has been developing the old Red Lion Smokehouse location at the corner of Park Avenue and Cumberland Street.

Food Prior to Great White North Craft Brewery, beer was solely produced across all of northern Ontario by Doran’s Northern Ontario Breweries Ltd. Some people might remember draft balls, which were one of the company’s most distinctive products. This company had been the dominant northern Ontario brewer for much of the 20th century. Started by three families in Sudbury in 1907, Doran’s grew over time and eventually amalgamated all of the regional breweries in northern Ontario under the apropos name Northern Breweries. The breweries involved in this company included Kakabeka Falls Brewing Co. (formerly located at the Clow Darling building on Cameron Street), Sudbury Brewing and Malting Co., Soo Falls Brewing Co., the Gold Belt Brewery in Timmins, and Port Arthur Beverage Co. The Kakabeka Falls brewery location closed its doors in 1962 due to its proximity with the larger Port Arthur site. In the early 1970s, Doran’s Northern Breweries was purchased by Canadian Breweries Limited. However, in 1977, the Doran’s employees came together and purchased the company back and Northern Breweries became the first employee-owned brewing cooperative in North America. The former Thunder Bay location (once located next to the Masala Grill) brewed beer for the region until 1995. Northern Breweries eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2006. While northern Ontario has a rich brewing history that was dominated for almost a century by one company, the future for craft brewing in the north is bright and increasingly diverse. Since 2012, a number of breweries have opened up across the northern regions of the province, producing a wide range of delicious brews using some of the best fresh water in the world. Support the breweries listed here and experience the brews that our great north has to offer. Kippis!

BREW IT YOURSELF

Breweries in Northern Ontario Northwestern Ontario Thunder Bay Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. Dawson Trail Craft Brewery One Time Brew Co. Coming soon: Lakehead Beer Co.

Kenora Lake of the Woods Brewing Company

Northeastern Ontario North Bay The New Ontario Brewing Company Gateway City Brewery Cecil’s Brewhouse and Kitchen Sudbury Stack Brewing Spacecraft Brewery 46 North Brewing Corp. Little Current Manitoulin Brewing Company

Sault Ste. Marie OutSpoken Brewing Northern Superior Brewing Company Timmins Full Beard Brewing Co. Compass Brewing Haileybury Whiskeyjack Beer Company South River South River Brewing Co.

The taproom at Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.

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Food

Banana Nutella Crepe

Fresh Made to Order A Closer Look at a New Bay Street Eatery

are made to order. The bread is baked fresh daily, and customers have their pick of no less than eight types. Meats are smoked and brined in-house, and the condiment section alone deserves significant pondering. (Brandon recommends the Nomad bomba, saying the sandwiches he’s made for himself do not go without this miracle spread.) Fresh veg and an array of local cheeses seal the deal. Now for the crepe bar. With a choice of sweet and savoury, patrons will delight in watching these being made before their eyes. The savoury delights include Veggie Ninja, The Gobbler, and All-Day Breakfast (Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. candied stout bacon is the showstopper here), and the kids will squeal over Banana Nutella, Strawberries & Cream, and Finn Pancake. The crepes are served in traditional paper cones, the way

they do in France, where one peels away the top layer as you munch your way on down. There are plenty of frozen takeand-bake items as well. Strawberry rhubarb custard pie is the bestseller, Deagle says. All pies are made at their catering facility and the crusts are not only light and flaky, but are perfectly pinched by their expert pie maker. Dinner is done by selecting a savoury pie. The steak and potato pie is a wonder, with braised beef and a touch of red wine. “Although still in its infancy, we have been so humbled by the support our friends, neighbours and the greater community has already shown to our new shop,” Mantis says. “We are so grateful to have the great people of [Northwestern Ontario] behind us.” Nomad on Bay is open Monday to Friday from 7 am to 5 pm, and weekends from 10 am to 3 pm.

Story by Susan Pretty, Photos by Keegan Richard

t’s hard to know exactly where to look when you enter Nomad on Bay for the first time. Is it their fridge stocked full of bevvies, the sweets on the counter, the clever nooks and crannies with local wares, or the fantastical bread display at the back? Despite what is going on in the world, owners Nikos Mantis and Shawna Deagle found themselves opening a place where folks could take out some home-baked goods, build-your-own sammies, and indulgent breakfasts, all washed down with fresh Rose N Crantz coffee. Mantis was at Calico Coffeehouse with his daughters and noticed the

“For Lease” sign across the street, and that’s when he had his revelation. Despite having to gut the place and rebuild it from the ground up, they opened for business in December 2020 and have been going non-stop ever since. “The response for employment was overwhelming,” Deagle says. “We had more resumes than we had openings. People just wanted to get out of the house and work.” The sandwich bar menu is a sight to behold, etched on five cascading birch signs (kudos @ pawoodcraft!) With Brandon the sandwich wizard standing by the gourmet sandwich bar, all sammies

A panini-type sandwich with cheese loaf, pastrami and turkey, gouda cheese, pea shoots and Nomad bomba

BUSINESS LUNCHES — BOX’D 807-621-4330 PINETREECATERING.COM

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YEARS The ﬁrst piece acquired for the Gallery’s Permanent Collection (1981)

Renew Your Hope FAMILY MENTAL HEALTH RECOVERY VIRTUAL SERIES

Discover more about the journey of mental health recovery and how you can support your loved one, while learning to take care of yourself.

Registration Required. For more information, contact: 807-345-5564 THUNDERBAY.CMHA.CA/EVENTS

Two FREE 8 week evening sessions are being offered. Register for Jan. 20 to Mar. 10, 2021 or Apr. 7 to May 26, 2021 Limit of 10 participants per session

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Untitled (Two Beavers) by Noel Ducharme, 1975, acrylic on canvas

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Food

SUPERIOR SIP

Northern (Drinks) Exposure

healthful benefits. Although these ingredients are readily found in our backyards and byways, foraging etiquette dictates you always make proper plant identification, kindly only take what you need from a permissible place, and humanely harvest to test run one of these tasty bevvies this winter. Cheers!

Easy Like Sunday Morning

Jeannie Dubois

By Jeannie Dubois, Certified Pommelier and Sommelier

he days are lengthening up in our boreal haven, and with the extra hours (or minutes) of sunlight and temperate climes, why not forage for a deliciously local ingredient to add to your après-sled/ski/snowshoe drink? Not only are these easily found fixings redolent with fresh northern flavours, they are also chock-full of

Hip Cider Toddy

Hot Chaga-Nut

The Cool Muddled Pine

(serves 2)

Ingredients: ¾ c water

Ingredients: 2 dashes Angostura bitters

½ c teaspoon chaga powder

1 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed

¼ c rosehip syrup*

¼ c coconut milk

½ oz pine syrup*

⅓ c apple vodka (think Absolut Juice Apple Edition)

1 tsp raw cacao powder

15 fresh cranberries

1 tsp raw honey, or to taste

1 oz gin

Instructions: Steep chaga powder in boiling water for a few minutes, then combine all ingredients in a blender and blend for 30 seconds. Pour into a mug and dust with cacao powder.

1 oz lemon-lime soda, to top

Ingredients: 1 apple, sliced for garnish

⅔ c soft (non-alcoholic) apple cider Instructions: Warm the vodka and syrup together in a large saucepan and then add the cider. Stir together until just below boiling. Once warmed through, pour into mugs and garnish with fresh apple slices.

*Rosehip syrup 4 c rosehips 2 c water

* To kick it up a notch add an ounce of coconut rum (think Malibu).

3 cranberries for garnish Pine sprig for garnish Instructions: Add bitters, lemon juice, pine syrup, and cranberries to a shaker and muddle. Add gin and ice, and shake until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over ice. Top with the lemon-lime soda. Garnish with three cranberries and a sprig of pine.

1 c sugar

*Pine syrup

Instructions: Wash rosehips thoroughly. Remove stems and flower remnants before boiling the rosehips in water for 20 minutes in a covered saucepan. Once boiled, strain the rosehips through cheesecloth and return clear juice to the saucepan. Add sugar to strained juice, stir well, and boil for five minutes, until sugar has dissolved and syrup has thickened. Refrigerate syrup in an airtight container until ready for use.

1 c water

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1 c sugar ½ c pine needles stripped from branch, roughly chopped Instructions: Add water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring until dissolved. Reduce heat to low and add pine needles. Stir and remove from heat, and let sit for two hours. Strain out solids. Keep refrigerated for up to three weeks.

For the armchair forager—pull out that jar of preserves that you made this summer! Ingredients: 1½ oz bourbon ½ oz maple syrup ¾ oz lemon juice 2 dashes bitters 1 tbsp blueberry preserves Lemon zest twist for garnish Instructions: In an ice-filled glass, stir together bourbon, maple syrup, lemon juice, bitters, and blueberry preserves. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with lemon twist.

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Food

Carte Blanche opened in the former Bernie’s Upholstery building

A New Beginning Carte Blanche Opens in Former Upholstery Shop Story and photos by Nik Fiorito

Supplied by Carte Blanche

Carte Blanche co-owners Robyn Despins and Bryan Gray

A charcuterie box featuring fruits, meat, cheeses, and sweets

“I

t’s in the old Bernie's Upholstery building” is probably the easiest way to direct someone to Thunder Bay’s newest cafe, charcuterie, and vino spot. Carte Blanche opened its doors at 389 Oliver Road in December, after months of renovations and planning by co-owners Robyn Despins and Bryan Gray. The goal was simple: to create a space where quality food and drink can be enjoyed in an intimate setting, where nothing is rushed or overlooked. Carte Blanche seeks to be a neighbourhood coffee shop by day and wine bar by night, with sweet and savoury charcuterie options, eventually for dine-in but currently available for take-out in individual to large-sized boxes. Both Despins and Gray have an entrepreneurial spirit, but Despins in particular has always dreamed of operating her

own coffee shop. Her recent move to Thunder Bay from Saskatchewan combined with securing the vacant corner-lot building provided the ideal circumstances for taking the leap, despite current pandemic restrictions. The partners report strong interest and support among patrons as more and more people realize how nice it is to open a custom charcuterie box at home on a cold winter night. While the charcuterie options may steal the spotlight, coffee by local roasters Rose N Crantz Roasting Co., and special-order wine (coming soon) will ensure that every bite goes down smoothly. Renovations to the larger lounge area are currently in progress in anticipation of dine-in restrictions eventually easing up. Online orders can be made through the website at carteblancheco.com.

The eatery features locally roasted Rose N Crantz coffee

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TOTAL FALL GRANTS - $498,527.31 Through our annual fall granting season, we have been able to support and fund the following community projects:

The Thunder Bay Community Foundation focuses on building endowment funds to connect donors to the worthy causes they support.

Thunder Bay Public Library - Keep Reading Thunder Bay Program - Danny Clara Legacy Fund St. Andrew's Soup Kitchen - No Going Back Program - Danny Clara Legacy Fund Roots to Harvest - Roots on the Road Program - Danny Clara Legacy Fund St. Thomas Church Family Giving Centre - Grub Tub Program - Danny Clara Legacy Fund Schreiber Public Library - Our Community Growing Together Program - Danny Clara Legacy Fund Community Arts & Heritage Education Project - Dancing at Home, Dancing Together: An Online Dance Project with 2SLGBTIAQ+ Youth Project - Hannah and Victor Stevenson Fund Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra - Season 59.5 Chamber Concert Series - Danny Clara Legacy Fund & Hannah and Victor Stevenson Fund Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra - TBSO Family Connect Concert - Hannah and Victor Stevenson Fund Nature Conservancy of Canada - Overlooking the Wetlands: Pearson Township Wetlands Nature Trail - James & Shirley Symington Endowed Family Fund Lakehead Social Planning Council - Conserving Communications & Connections through Social Media Program Thunder Bay Community Fund St. John Ambulance - PPE Supplies - Thunder Bay Community Fund Thunder Bay Emergency Shelter Inc. - New Steam Table - Thunder Bay Community Fund Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra - TBSO Spirit Bear - Hannah and Victor Stevenson Fund Friends of the Finnish Labour Temple - Reel History of the Lakehead: Engaging the Community with its Past - Thunder Bay Community Fund Thunder Bay Art Gallery - Digital Field Trip Program - Hannah and Victor Stevenson Fund Magnus Theatre - ASL Interpreted Performances - Thunder Bay Community Fund, Dr. S. Penny Petrone Fund & Donny Ritza Skills Development Fund Magnus Theatre - 2020/2021 Young Playwright's Challenge - Ontario Endowment for Children and Youth in Recreation (OECYR) Fund Lakehead University - Third Age Learning Lakehead (TALL): Accessible to All - Donny Ritza Skills Development Fund Camp Quality Canada - Camp Quality Northwestern Ontario Camp-At-Home - Ontario Endowment for Children and Youth in Recreation (OECYR) Fund United Way of Thunder Bay - Community Impact and Digital Engagement Platform - Thunder Bay Community Fund Cambrian Players - Screen Us - Thunder Bay Community Fund Community Arts & Heritage Education Project - My Thunder Bay: Newcomers’ Perspectives about the City in Photographic Images Thunder Bay Community Fund St. John Ambulance - Therapy Dog Unit - Thunder Bay Community Fund Thunder Bay & District Humane Society - Subsidized Spay/Neuter Program - Keri Chase Memorial Animal Fund Magnus Theatre - The Addiction Project - Thunder Bay Community Fund Hospice Northwest - Hearts and Hope Grief Support Group Funding - Thunder Bay Community Fund NorthWind Family Ministries - Cooking for Life Program - Thunder Bay Community Fund Boy & Girls Clubs of Thunder Bay - Keeping Kids Outside During COVID - Thunder Bay Community Fund Precious Bundles Children's Clothing Assistance Program - Give Two Hoots, Help Us Buy Boots! Program - Thunder Bay Community Fund Children's Centre Foundation - Getting kids the help they need, when they need it! Implementing the Youth App-Supported Service Thunder Bay Community Fund & R.K.Dewar Fund Hospice Northwest - 24/7 Caregiver Telephone Support - Thunder Bay Community Fund Community Clothing Assistance - The UNDERCOVER Project - Thunder Bay Community Fund Lakehead University - Third Age Learning Lakehead: Expansion to Thunder Bay - Thunder Bay Community Fund The Kidney Foundation of Canada - Emergency Short-Term Financial Assistance - Thunder Bay Community Fund Elizabeth Fry Society of Northwestern Ontario - Client Support Fund - Thunder Bay Community Fund Grace Ministries of Thunder Bay - Grace Place Day Shelter - Thunder Bay Community Fund Boys & Girls Clubs of Thunder Bay - Little Chef's Program - Ontario Endowment for Children and Youth in Recreation (OECYR) Fund & James & Shirley Symington Endowed Family Fund Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra - George and Mary Morrison Family Fund Salvation Army - George and Mary Morrison Family Fund Underground Gym - Shirley H. & Meredith O. Nelson Fund Isthmus Thunder Bay - Shirley H. & Meredith O. Nelson Fund Thunder Bay & District Humane Society - Anonymous Donor Underground Gym - Anonymous Donor Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation - Kelly & George Badanai Family Fund Boys & Girls Club of Thunder Bay - Margaret and Ed Ayer Family Fund Our Kids Count - Margaret and Ed Ayer Family Fund Thunder Bay Youth Symphony Orchestra - Margaret & Arnold Westlake Endowment for the Arts

Nurture your passion. Build our community. Create a legacy.

FALL 2020 GRANT DISBURSEMENTS

@tbaycf • tbcf.org • (807) 475-7279 • #312-101 N. Syndicate Ave. The Walleye

Taste of Home Fundraiser This January, celebrate ‘home’ with EcoSuperior ’s Taste of Home fundraiser. Each fundraiser gift bag includes: 1x Sunshine Pottery Lake Superior mug, 2x Boreal Forest Teas, 2x Tea of Fortunata reusable cotton tea bags, and 1x EcoSuperior $10 gift card! P roceeds from this fundraiser will go to support our local businesses and help maintain EcoSuperior ’s environmental programming for the ongoing future. Only a few left - visit ecosuperior.square.site to purchase today.

FREE and QUICK-ACCESS

single session councelling:

Call (807) 700-0090 to access phone or video counselling. In-person sessions may be offered on a case by case basis.

Soroptimist International Thunder Bay

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FilmTheatre

Banned and Censored Films in Canada By Michael Sobota

This is a shocking story. It could never take place in most American towns. But it did in this one. It’s a public challenge not to let it happen again. - Opening credits to The Wild One

ebruary, with Valentine’s Day anchoring the middle of the month, has always been about romance, love, and that first most pleasurable thing we do in the dark. In past years, you would be hard-pressed to get a reservation for Valentine’s Day at local restaurants. Then you might take your date

home, perhaps have a little more wine, maybe a romantic movie watched on the couch as foreplay to that other thing. And that’s where the movies often got in trouble. Canada has a long history of censoring or outright banning films. Starting with Damaged Goods in 1916, and stretching into the 21st

century with Bumfights, jurisdictions in Canada have banned 29 films. Of those films, 18 (62%) were for “sexual content.” Most films originally banned or censored had those impediments lifted in more enlightened years. Here are four wicked examples of movies that you weren’t supposed to see, and why.

The Wild One (1953)

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966)

Romeo and Juliet (1968)

Mike Nichols’ first feature was critically acclaimed and nominated for an Oscar in every category in which it was eligible, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay (by Ernest Lehman, from the original play by Edward Albee), and all four of the acting categories (Elizabeth Taylor - Actress, Richard Burton - Actor, Sandy Dennis - Supporting Actress, and George Segal Supporting Actor) as well as Alex North’s guitar-centered, haunting musical score. The story is about George and Martha (Burton and Taylor) and a drunken evening of fun and games in their home, including “get the guests'' (Dennis and Segal). It’s a shattering depiction of both love and loathing, awash in alcohol and secrets. It was initially banned for “religious reasons,” as Lehman faithfully kept Albee’s mocking of Catholic liturgy in his script.

Franco Zeffirelli’s lush, romantic, authentic period treatment of the classic Shakespearean love tragedy was an instant hit and almost instantly banned in numerous countries, including Canada. Zeffirelli dared to cast real teenagers (Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting) as his romantic leads, and then film them with their clothes off. Briefly. He cast a strong ensemble of classically trained British and Italian Shakespearean actors around them, but that didn’t stop the censors from noticing that he let them sleep together naked. There is also a memorable love theme created by the film’s composer, Nino Rota. My favourite moment, however, is spoken, not visual. On the morning after Juliet takes her sleeping potion, Laurence Olivier gives a heartbreaking voiceover upon the discovery of her “lifeless body.”

Laslo Benedek directed a screenplay by John Paxton about biker gangs that terrorize a small town. Marlon Brando plays Johnny, the leader of one of the gangs, and Lee Marvin plays Chino, the other gang leader. The script is corny, with lots of scenes of motorcycles riding in tandem on the highways and later tearing up the streets in town. There is a tacked-on almost-love story when Brando falls in love with the local sheriff’s daughter, but the movie is really about primitive, unhappy teen culture and how it fostered toxic masculinity. Immediately upon release it was banned in several countries for its bold depiction of “criminal activity,” but the ban was later reversed on appeal from the producers. It did, however, remain banned in the United Kingdom for 18 years.

THE SECOND MOST PLEASURABLE THING WE DO IN THE DARK. A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES

Porky’s (1981) This is Canada’s gift that birthed a long line of future teen-focused sex comedies. The movie went through a lot of censoring and re-editing to get an acceptable rating to secure release in the United States. Even then, it was briefly banned in Ireland before being overturned on an appeal. It is a doozy. Writer/director Bob Clark claimed the film was based on his authentic high school experiences. I gasped when re-watching it for the purposes of this review. Its bold, misogynist, racist, and corny dialogue remains shocking, not to mention the appearance of a real teenage erect penis sticking through a hole in the wall of a girl’s locker room shower. Critics universally panned it, but audiences flocked to see it. Today, I find the movie sad. Made for $2.5 million, the film went on to gross—and yes, I use the term intentionally—more than $111,000,000 worldwide.

And here are six more titles from films commonly banned in countries around the world: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Last Tango in Paris, The Last Temptation of Christ, A Clockwork Orange, The Da Vinci Code, and the original Fifty Shades of Grey.

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FilmTheatre

Undercurrents of Creativity Superior Theatre Festival Celebrates Short Film Releases By Amy Sellors

hen you collaborate with someone who experiences the world differently than you, you need to find common ground. With Superior Theatre Festival’s newly released project Undercurrents, that common ground is water. The year 2020 asked all of us to change in one way or another. Donna Marie Baratta, artistic director of Superior Theatre Festival (STF), knew she had to change mediums and bring her planned live theatre experience to film. “I am never one to shy away from a challenge,” says Baratta. “We’re always trying something new with STF. We jumped in and figured it out as we went along.” Keeping the values and mission of STF—celebrating the northern voice, collaboration, new work, and youth engagement— she gathered 70 people together and created six short films that tell stories through original music and dance. From its inception, Undercurrents was intended to be a present for Thunder Bay’s 50th year. These six short films capture the beauty, diversity, and heart of Thunder Bay. Released throughout December, these gifts arrived just before Christmas. Baratta also wanted to include Indigenous dance. Through a friend, she was connected to Dave Wilkinson-Simard, an Indigenous performing artist and part of the IPAA (Indigenous Performing Arts Alliance) team. His wealth of knowledge and vast experience helped to bring a strong, clear First Nations voice to the project. Music and dance are languages in all cultures, and the more we learn about others, the more we are enriched. By bringing together collaborators from different cultures, and of different

ages and different experience levels, Baratta has created beautiful stories that inspire and engage. In their first conversation, Wilkinson-Simard felt the project was unique. “We were talking about dance and movement, about how storytelling is perceived. Coming from a First Nations perspective, I had a completely different vision of what she was talking about,” he says. “We had the same trajectory in terms of what we wanted to do, but we come from different backgrounds.” WilkinsonSimard shared that the role of dance and song is different for First Nations. It's more ceremonial, more spiritual. He knew he needed to include young people. “So many First Nations youth are so talented with singing and dancing and they don’t have a way to express it,” says Wilkinson-Simard. “They don’t have mentorship. There is no place to showcase what they can do. This was an opportunity to show young people a positive way to express themselves. It was a great project to get involved in. We weren’t on the same page, but I understood what she was talking about.” “We don’t have productions,” he continues. “We don’t have a dance space we practice in. In the summer, we dance at powwows. How do we find the language to connect with each other? Storytelling is coming alive in Thunder Bay. These ceremonies weren’t always shared. In the past it might have been considered taboo to record certain things, but now it’s seen as a way to share these stories and our history.” Baratta’s theme for the project was water. Wilkinson-Simard shared that in Indigenous culture, women are the water-keepers. In Undercurrents, all the dancers and

From left to right, hoop dancers Kinew and Saagatay Councillor storytellers show their strength and beauty while dancing at the water’s edge. “The editing process took longer and involved more people than planned,” Baratta says, laughing. In a pandemic, most things take longer, and the extra time helped Baratta to

value the role of film. She finishes this project wondering how film may play a role in her work when we can all sit together again. The six short films that make up Undercurrents can be viewed at superiortheatrefestival.com/ undercurrents.

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TheArts

Staying Engaged Definitely Superior Art Gallery Presses On

Story by Matt Prokopchuk, Photos by Chad Kirvan

he head of Definitely Superior Art Gallery says operating without many of its tentpole events and fundraisers for most of the past year due to the ongoing pandemic has been a challenge, but they’ve been able to patch things together, thanks to emergency funding and generous community and artist support. David Karasiewicz, executive and artistic director of the gallery, says since the pandemic hit home here in Thunder Bay last March, cancelling and restricting many events, Def Sup hasn’t been able to run any of its major fundraisers and community outreach initiatives, like Derelicte, The Hunger, Urban Infill, and others, including many of its in-gallery exhibitions. “Pretty much everything got devastated,” he says. “The pandemic just disrupted that entirely because it just brought around its uncertainty, restrictions, the lockdowns, and [it’s] really not conducive to any kind of planning or programming.” Losing fundraisers like The Hunger and Derelicte also hit the gallery in the wallet; Karasiewicz says those two events alone routinely gross more than $40,000. Fortunately, however, Def Sup has been able to take advantage of

emergency funding from national and local sources, as well as public donations (some that Karasiewicz calls “really huge”), making up that shortfall. Still, it’s the challenge of staying engaged with the community during periods of being shut down or having events curtailed that Karasiewicz says has been an overarching challenge. “We are a public-oriented type of art organization,” he says. “It’s all built upon that public engagement, so when you have something like this […] I think everyone experienced the devastation; it hits hard at the arts [and] culture creative economy.” He adds, however, that they were able to tweak their plans for the grand opening of their new gallery space in the old Cumberland Street movie theatre into several smaller events last year. “We still managed to pull together a really exciting and vibrant opening,” Karasiewicz says, adding that the reduced capacity actually helped facilitate more conversations in a less crowded space and led to more donations and pledges of support. Overall, Karasiewicz says things are looking stable going forward. “We’re still working on ways of raising funds,” he says.

The Honest Heart Collective performs at 2017's Derelicte

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TheArts

The Old Man and the Hunters, at the End of the Day By Jean and Leanna Marshall, Guest Curators, Thunder Bay Art Gallery

FROM THE THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION

Artist: Michael Robinson Title: The Old Man and the Hunters, at the End of the Day Date: c. 1987 Medium: Etching on paper Dimensions: 46 x 38 cm I am an ancient child, alone, drifting in a cold lake by the shores of mirrored rocks and doorways made of smoke. I am in a moment of history, a gray river that has no origins I am hermit, a small butterfly in a shell of stone, Fluttering across the invisible land. -Excerpt from the Michael Robinson poem “The Old Man and the Hunters” Originally from Manitoulin Island, the late Michael Robinson (1948–2010) is a visual storyteller. As a printmaker and published poet, Robinson brings forth the ever-changing, moving relationship between humans, land, and the spirit relations. The stories within the images show the depth of cultural knowledge that he carries. The energy of his work is calm and invites curiosity for the observer. What is unfolding at this moment? What is the meaning of the specific characters in the image? Through the use of monochromatic colours, Robinson uses darkness and light to show the constant duality of life itself. Within his images, he is imparting that there is still balance within supposed conflict or tension. The Old Man and the Hunters, at the End of the Day, shows the point of view of a well-respected water being—mikinaak, or snapping turtle. Robinson captures a moment in time that is actually from a place that is timeless. The layers of meaning surface in subtle clarity. As people of the land, we are gifted with the perspective from the water. From this perspective, the turtle is looking up and seeing two hunters—a man and an eagle. He’s seeing the realms of sky, land, and water. Each hunter has their own destination and they are oblivious that they are being observed by a great spiritual leader. Without a doubt, Robinson is clearly teaching us that the natural laws of the land are in fact spiritual laws. The poem “The Old Man and the Hunters” can be found in the book of poetry Touching the Serpent’s Tail published by Martin House Publishing. Michael Robinson prints can be found for sale at the Ahnisnabae Art Gallery located at 18 South Street.

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Christian Chapman

TheArts

Blue Tobacco Bag by Shannon Gustafson (2020), 6x12”, smoked deer hide, velveteen, seed beads, brass sequins, brass beads, brass cones, hawk bells, embroidery floss

Art is Ceremony, Art is Life

Piitwewetam: Making Is Medicine Featured at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery By Jolene Banning

ive years ago, Shannon and Ryan Gustafson heard the news no parent ever wants to hear: that their first-born son Jesse had died in a car accident. The family was devastated. It didn’t feel right to plan a funeral in a Western way, using a church service. “Colonialism has really impacted the way we grieve. It’s like we don’t know how,” says Shannon. So they turned to Anishinaabe ceremony and art. Five years later, with nearly 50 pieces that one would use in ceremony, the family is opening Piitwewetam: Making Is Medicine, an exhibit that features their grief and grieving process. It’s an exhibit about honouring Jesse’s life. The Gustafsons have always been closely tied to the powwow community, and are well known across Turtle Island for their beadwork,

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textiles, and regalia. When they were first hit with the tragic news, Shannon took the project she was working on—a tikinagan—and tossed it in a black garbage bag and threw it in her closet. She couldn’t imagine working on anything, let alone a baby carrier—the same kind her youngest was held in as a baby—so she started looking for resources to help with her grief. “[As] Indigenous people, we are naturally spiritual beings because we have that connection to the land, to the water, to the stars and all of creation,” she says. Their spiritual advisor and friend, Ron Mandamin, guided them through their son’s ceremony and helped them understand the journey Jesse is on according to Anishinaabe understandings of the afterlife. It was while in ceremony that Shannon

felt closest to her son, knowing he might not be with her physically but is always with her spiritually, and that it is while in ceremony that she is most connected to her son. It was a feeling and knowledge she needed her whole family to experience. Her husband Ryan has always been by her side while creating and in ceremony. Together they needed to connect as a family with their daughters and son in ceremony, so their creating shifted to a planned and focused night of art and items. Together, Shannon, Ryan, and their two daughters created pieces that were true to Anishinaabe history and culture with florals, patterns, and motifs. “I strive to maintain this spiritual connection to my son and I do it through ceremony and it’s done with my family and it’s really beautiful,” says Shannon. The items the family created are pieces that can be used in ceremony, like tobacco pouches or midewin (medicine society) sash. The curators, twin sisters Leanna (Giizis Soon Ikwe) and Jean Marshall, come from the community of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation but call Animikii-wiikwedong (Thunder Bay) home. This exhibit is very personal to the sisters, who are also close friends with the Gustafson family. “As Anishinabeg, there isn’t always space created to grieve. We all carry different losses and there’s a lot of losses in our communities,” explains Leanna. “It’s about one family’s journey but within that family’s journey, they’re showing and teaching us how making and staying together as a family is important when we’re

grieving, and the role of ceremony.” A lot of strength comes from ceremony; creating the space for it is going to show others that there is another way to grieve that doesn’t have to be self-destructive or lonesome, or something you have to do on your own. “The one thing that deep down inside that I think about is that I feel invincible because nothing will ever, ever hurt me the way I’ve been hurt already,” says Shannon. Piitwewetam: Making Is Medicine is scheduled to run until April 18 at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. Visit theag.ca for updates on the gallery's status during COVID-19.

To Live In Balance by Justine and Ryan Gustafson (2016) 33x16”, pine, black ash, sinew, melton wool, leather, seed beads

Christian Chapman

Jean Marshall

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TheArts

Twance has been beading for years now and her mother, who never had time in earlier years, has picked up the art as well. Interestingly, Twance’s grandmother didn’t learn to bead until she was in her 30s. It was something she taught herself to do as a way to earn extra income for her family. Then she was able to teach her granddaughter and eventually, her daughter. The satisfaction of learning a skill as an adult and then teaching that skill to your descendants is a tangible way in which families stay connected, even after death. Twance’s grandmother recently passed on, but Twance thinks of her every time she picks up a beading project. “These beads connect me to the people who came before me, especially my grandmother Florena,” she says. When she opened up the cookie tin all those years ago, not only did Twance open up the door to creativity and art, but she opened

up a door that goes back hundreds of years: connection to her ancestors, and connection to art, beauty, and spirituality. Find Melissa Twance on Instagram @miskobenays.

Melissa Twance

Bonding Through Beading

The Traditional Art of Melissa Twance Story and photos by Leah Morningstar

40 The Walleye

was incredibly patient and supportive, and the time they spent together beading was a calming and relaxing time of familial bonding. Twance grew up, attended Lakehead University, and started thinking about what she might like to do as a career. She has a master’s degree in education, an honours in Indigenous learning, and is currently working towards a PhD. Twance has fully immersed herself in the life of an academic and loves it, but says it can be exhausting. “Academic work involves so much writing and it’s so thought-intensive,” she says, adding that it’s the beading that helps her relax and take a break from academia. “Beading lets me zone out. It’s a mindful activity, but it’s repetitive and automatic. I can let my mind wander and reflect and feel at peace.”

A photo of Melissa Twance and her grandmother Florena in 1991

Submitted by Melissa Twance

hen Melissa Twance was 13 years old, she found an old cookie tin at her grandmother’s house. She wasn’t expecting to find cookies, but what she did find shaped the course of her artistic and creative journey. The tin was full of tiny seed beads—dozens of little containers filled with every colour of bead imaginable. Twance’s parents were not beaders, so watching someone work with beads wasn’t an everyday part of childhood. But after she found those beads in the cookie tin, Twance really wanted to learn. She started simply and slowly: watching her grandmother work, eventually trying her hand at a few stitches, working her way to simple geometric designs, and later, traditional flower designs. Her grandmother

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TheArts

Beading is Medicine

Annette Klement Beads to Connect With Her Culture, Reclaim Her Ojibway Identity By Roxann Shapwaykeesic

 Beading has become an important thread for Thunder Bay’s Annette Klement in her efforts to rediscover her Ojibway crafting skills  A matching bracelet and earring set Klement made for a baby and mom

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eading is the last thing Annette Klement of Thunder Bay thinks of before she falls asleep and it is the first thing she considers in the morning. The 39-year-old wife and mother of two started learning the craft just last February, and now spends most of her free time honing her skills and says she immediately felt it connected her with her Ojibway culture. “For me, my beading is definitely a cultural thing. It keeps me connected to my ancestors. To me, it's just part of who I am now,” says Klement, whose family is originally from Pays Plat First Nation, about 180 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay. Growing up, Klement always identified as an Indigenous person. She attended powwows and

understood the meaning of smudging, but not much else in regards to traditional knowledge and teachings. She says her grandmother had fears identifying as an Indigenous person when she first moved to Thunder Bay in the 1960s. “When my grandmother came here to the city, she thought she was doing her children a favour by not teaching them the traditional ways and the culture and stopped speaking Ojibway,” says Klement. Like many other Indigenous families over that same period, Klement’s grandmother decided not to teach the language for fear of backlash. For fear of racism. “It was better not to, or so they thought at that time,” says Klement, adding she ended up with only tidbits

 Every evening after supper, Klement clears the table and starts working on her beading  Klement incorporates traditional imagery and colours into her beadwork, but also enjoys trying more contemporary designs

TheArts of information about some of her Indigenous heritage. “We were definitely not a traditional cultural family,” she adds. Since the 1980s, Klement’s family on her mother’s side has managed to piece together more of their Indigenous family history, as they worked to reclaim their Indian Status made possible by a series of the changes to the Indian Act. In 2019, they also researched family members through baptism, marriage, and death certificates through the Catholic Diocese in Thunder Bay; Klement then learned her great-great grandmother's name was Ginogamikwe, which means “fisher woman” in Ojibway. “I felt an instant connection. That's what my great-great grandmother did; they were fishermen.

I have always loved being in the boat and being out fishing with my parents,” says Klement, who still loves to fish with her husband and children. For Klement, beading was another way to connect back to the family’s Indigenous roots. “I wanted to find a way to become more connected to our culture. [...] I thought that beading for myself could be the way I connect,” she says. Inspired by the beautiful beading she’d seen on display at powwows, Klement found someone willing to teach her to bead. “Her teaching was that when you bead you should be in a good place [...] because what you’re feeling will go into what you’re making,” says Klement. Soon after the COVID-19 lockdowns came into effect, Klement

 Klement's husband Derek and daughters Briana, 6, and Erika, 11

was able to really focus on her new passion. She was also able to connect with a vibrant beading community on Instagram and Pinterest who shared different backgrounds and stories. “Another woman here in town was telling me about her teachings and how a lot of people, especially women, will use beading as a way to heal from trauma,” said Klement, adding she very much believes that “beading is medicine.” Klement now shares her work on social media under the name Ginogamikwe Beads, in honour of her great-great grandmother and ancestors. She now feels like a true beader, and hopes one day to expand her techniques and learn how to work in different mediums. She would also love to make her

 Klement’s grandmother, Elizabeth White, moved the family to Thunder Bay from Pays Plat in the 1960s

own moccasins and remembers her granny, her mother, and herself always having a pair in the house and considers them another connection to her culture. And if her daughters decide they want to continue these new-found traditions, Klement is ready and more than happy to teach them. “Make sure you get good quality stuff like needles, thread, beads; all that makes a difference when you’re trying to put something together,” Klement advises new beaders. And of course, Klement still has her first pair of earrings, and says they’re pretty hilarious to look at. Klement’s creations can be viewed on Instagram @ginogamikwe.beads.

 Klement’s great grandmother, Catherine Wabos, was Marie Ginogamikwe's daughter

 Klement incorporates traditional imagery and colours into her beadwork, but also enjoys trying more contemporary designs

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Outdoor

A Slippery Slope Ice Climbing at Orient Bay

Story and photos by Jesse Milani

or most of the year, a waterfall remains just that— water. But over the winter months, temperatures drop drastically, enough for some falls to freeze over, allowing for the thrilling sport of ice climbing to take charge. Ice climbing involves the classic climbing gear such as a helmet, anchoring systems, rope, and a harness, but because of the much colder season, mountaineering boots, ice axes, and crampons (spiked devices for your boots) are also needed. Ice axes and crampons allow a climber to make their way up the frozen waterfall, and mountaineering boots help the climber keep their feet from freezing while offering proper ankle protection. Orient Bay is approximately 40 kilometers north of Nipigon, sitting south of Lake Nipigon. The climbing around Orient Bay is regarded as some of the top ice climbing in Canada, with over 200 established routes and varied grades of ice climbs offering everyone from beginners to expert climbers plenty of area to explore. Every March, Canada’s longest-running ice festival, the Nipigon Ice Fest, is held, fully run by volunteers. The festival offers everyone an opportunity to learn from (and bond with) the local ice climbing community, as well as view the beauty of Orient Bay.

Hannah Ryann at the base of an ice climb

44 The Walleye

Outdoor

Ashlyn Kopanski

Ice falls at Orient Bay

The reality is that it’s going to be cold—really cold—so layering up and making sure to fill your thermos full of hot coffee is essential. Once at the frozen 30-metre waterfall, you tie yourself into the rope and get ready to begin your climb. You begin by swinging your ice axe into the frozen water and hope for enough penetration to hold your weight. At this point, you bring your legs up higher and give the falls a good hard kick with your boot, driving the sharply-spiked crampons into the falls. As you continue, the possibility of large chunks of ice breaking off become more frequent, therefore communication with your belayer on the ground becomes important. The yelling of “ice!” can be heard echoing throughout Orient Bay’s valley. As you make your way up the falls it becomes apparent just how exhausting the sport is, as you find yourself constantly swinging the axe into the ice with your arms above your head. Taking a break to shake out your hands becomes a brief moment of calmness as you sit halfway up the frozen waterfall taking in the entirety and beauty of Orient Bay.

Andy Noga

Ashlyn Kopanski scales the ice at Orient Bay

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CityScene

Participants at the start line of the 2020 Sleeping Giant Loppet. The 2021 event has been cancelled.

Postponing to Next Year

Sleeping Giant Loppet Organizers Look Ahead to 2022 Story by Sarah Kerton, Photos by Marty Mascarin

or the first time in its history, the Sleeping Giant Loppet has been cancelled. This local winter tradition would have been in its 44th year, had COVID-19 not stepped in to change its fate. Loppet coordinator Peter Gallagher says that in the past 43 years it has never been cancelled, though it has been delayed due to snow conditions. This past fall, organizers were considering a variety of options

46 The Walleye

for possible ways to run the Loppet in the face of COVID-19 without allowing people to congregate. “I believe strongly in the public health guidelines, and the Loppet has 900 participants gathered shoulder to shoulder at the start line,” Gallagher says. “The decision to cancel it was made easy by the fact that Ontario Parks regulations currently prohibit events of any size in provincial parks.” Because the event is usually held on the spectacular ski trails

at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, those regulations mean it can’t happen this year. Park superintendent Christian Carl was just as disappointed as the organizers and also looks forward to the event’s return. In the meantime, some of the park ski trails are being groomed and maintained for the enjoyment of both classic and skate skiers throughout the winter. Planning is also underway for next year’s loppet, with March 5, 2022 as the chosen date. “I sure am hopeful,” Gallagher says. “On the tailgate of my truck I have an advertisement for the Loppet—I haven’t changed the dates yet, but I think we’re all very very hopeful that we’ll all have the vaccine and be able to hold the event again. Missing the Loppet for one year in comparison to all the other hurt [that] people have dealt

with is not that big a deal.” Organizers are encouraging people to get out and try the variety of ski trails around Thunder Bay. The ski community has been very happy that, despite the ongoing pandemic, the trails are still being groomed and kept open. Gallagher says that there are a lot of new skiers out this year, despite there being limited services, such as ski rentals, available. Volunteers are working hard at the ski centres to educate people on new protocols and to discourage them from congregating in parking lots and near the chalets. Gallagher says he’ll be spending the next year “thinking about something special to do when we make the comeback.” For more information on the Loppet’s history and pictures, check out their website at: sleepinggiantloppet.ca.

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2212 Sleeping Giant Parkway There’s something about a wall sconce that makes a room feel extra warm and intimate. This one, from Kühl Interiors, has a traditional lamp shape, blending a black matte finish with a brushed nickel finish steel, crystal accents, and a white fabric shade, making it a modern and sophisticated addition to your home.

For Creating A Cosy Space By Amy Jones

f there’s one thing we’re known for in Northwestern Ontario, it’s our ability to embrace winter. Skiing, snowshoeing, skating, ice fishing, winter camping, ice climbing—when it comes to outdoor activities, we’ve got all your faves covered. But on the flip side, we also know how to get cosy with the best of them. After all, what’s a good ski run if it’s not followed by a steaming mug of hot chocolate, or an icy dip in a lake followed by a long, hot sauna? Here’s Stuff We Like for Creating a Cosy Space.

Contemporary Ceramic Mug KH. ceramic design

$45

Custom Succulent Terrarium

Klippan Gotland Throw Blanket Hygge Loft

271 Bay Street If you’re like us, you basically live under a throw blanket all winter. We love this thick and silky grey checked wool blanket from Klippan, available at Hygge Loft. It’s made of 100% Gotland wool, which comes from a Swedish breed of sheep that has been herded since the Viking era—and if it’s warm enough for the Vikings, it should be warm enough for a NWO winter!

$200

Rose Quartz Tea Gratitude Gems

gratitudegemoils.com Warm your body and your soul with this rose quartz tea from Gratitude Gems Oils. Developed in partnership with International House of Tea, the rose quartz blend is made with organic Japanese and Chinese green tea, lemon verbena, rose petals, and a rose quartz crystal, all of which work together to support unconditional love.

$78

khceramicdesign.com Wrap your hands around a gorgeous, handpainted mug from KH. ceramic design, and feel a little closer to the earth. Each mug is individually painted, as well as glazed on the inside, fired, and sanded to give them the feel of a beach pebble.

Thuja Floral Design

285 Bay Street Each of these terrariums from Thuja Floral Design are custom made, so you’ll have your very own unique bowl of cute and hardy succulents to add a little touch of green to your cosy space.

$40

Christi Belcourt Journal Thunder Bay Art Gallery Store

1080 Keewatin Street This gorgeous journal, featuring the artwork of Métis artist Christi Belcourt, is a great place to record all your thoughts, dreams, and ideas (or even just your grocery lists) while you’re tucked up next to the fireplace. And the best part is, a portion of all purchases of this journal supports Nimkii Aazhibikong, a language community for Anishinaabemowin language revitalization, land-based practices, and the arts.

$16

Pagoda Throw Pillow Lockesley and Taylor

815 Huron Avenue The easiest way to make your space super comfy is to surround yourself with throw pillows. We love this one from Lockesley and Taylor featuring the iconic Thunder Bay Pagoda in its polka-dotted heyday, for its nostalgia factor as well as its squish factor.

$48.68

Glerups Slippers

J.B. Evans

122 Frederica Street West The first rule of cosy spaces is: no cold feet. Luckily, these unisex Glerups slippers from J.B. Evans will keep your tootsies toasty with their 100% wool upper and insole (and no-itch wool, at that!). Plus, they’ll keep you upright with their non-slip rubber sole. Available in a variety of colours, so you can get a different pair to match all your PJs.

$12

$90/$109.95

Spiced Oak and Bourbon Candle Peace & Quiet Candle Co.

peaceandquietcandleco.ca There is something incredibly homey about the scent of this spiced oak and bourbon from Peace & Quiet Candle Co. Made from soy and hand-poured in small batches, this candle will make your cosy space even more inviting (and maybe cover up that wet-wool-sock smell from your earlier outdoor adventures!).

48 The Walleye

$18/$31

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EYE TO EYE

ennis Franklin Cromarty High School’s Greg Chomut has received some pretty special recognition. The art and history teacher at the Indigenous school in Thunder Bay has received a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence for his community bridge-building, as well as his innovative teaching methods and extracurricular activities. Also one of the founders of Wake the Giant, Chomut joined us virtually to talk about the recognition, how he embraces the northern Ontario winter, and his favourite thing he owns. On being recognized with a national teaching award: I’m deeply honoured to receive the award. It came about, I guess because of nominations by one of my colleagues [...] and just this fall it was announced, and it was really exciting for me. The best part, though, of the whole thing was seeing the nomination letters from other teachers I really respect and look up to as great teachers and role models, and other people in the community that really set the bar really high. So just knowing that they thought I was deserving

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With Greg Chomut As told to Matt Prokopchuk, Photo by Kay Lee

of this award in the beginning is what has meant the most. On what he feels makes a good teacher: The most important thing is that you make the lesson relevant to the students, something that they can connect to. A lot of it is the sales pitch: you have to convince them that it’s something that’s going to be worth learning before they’ll listen to it, and also make it fun. Anybody can associate with that idea, I think, that when you’re interested in something, it’s really easy to remember […]. Connecting with them in that way is, I think, the most important thing about teaching. On what he’s learned through his involvement with Wake the Giant: One thing that I’m really happy to see is how many really great people, organizations, and companies there are in town that have a real appetite for change. People have stepped up in so many different ways, and it’s not just within the city, it’s nationwide—there’s been some famous musicians and politicians that have reached out, and authors

that have reached out to contribute. There’s really a lot of people that want to make a better Thunder Bay, a better community, and a better Canada. We’ve also learned that there’s still a lot of work to do. There’s a lot that needs to happen, but I think we’re on the right path. On how he embraces a northern Ontario winter: I’ve always loved winter, actually. It’s been my favourite season for pretty much my whole life. I really like outdoor activities and I think that’s why—so skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, skidooing. Even when I was in university, I used to take all my classes in the mornings so I could be at the ski hill all afternoon every day of the week. Now being a father—I’ve got four kids—I get to watch them grow a passion for all these outdoor activities. Not being able to go to the ski hill right now because of COVID is a little bit tough, but hopefully we can get back to that soon. And then skidooing—we’ve even got a little old 1972 Elan we rebuilt a couple of years ago with my father-in-law that the little kids get to rip around on, so it’s lots of fun.

On the last book he read: The last book I read was All Our Relations by Tanya Talaga. It was tough for me because a lot of the people that the stories are about, I either know them or I know their family members […] and a lot of the stories I already heard before. But I think I would really suggest that other people read it because it gives you a good sense of what Indigenous and First Nations people are facing when they’re here in Thunder Bay and in Canada that someone like myself, a non-Indigenous person, and other non-Indigenous people don’t get a sense of because we don’t see it every day. On what his most treasured possession is: I have a pair of pliers that I got from my granny, and they were her dad’s. They’re lineman cutters from World War I […]. They’re handmade, and they are just so smooth—there’s the sentimental value of it being passed down through the family and just the workmanship to make them. I’m marveled by every time I hold them in my hands.

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CityScene This prompted Young to chair a new program, ASSIST Thunder Bay, which attempts to provide financial aid for international students, as well as gather existing resources, and put them all in one central hub. As of the fall semester in 2020, international students made up 15.8% of the student body at Lakehead University, and despite the rapid growth in size over recent years, Young feels as though the resources for this group haven’t exactly kept pace. “I don’t think international students are being treated enough as a priority,” he says. With jobs across the city being lost to the pandemic, and a rise in tuition fees for international students, there’s a large number of new community members feeling the pinch. “When the COVID pandemic first hit, certain students expressed they had lost their sponsors, and they were having difficulty

Silas Young, the chair of ASSIST Thunder Bay

Some MuchNeeded Assistance ASSIST Thunder Bay Provides Helping Hand for International Students By Michael Charlebois

or international students new to Thunder Bay, the transition can be difficult. With the added stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, students were feeling a sense of hopelessness as the academic year unfolded, and they weren’t getting the support they needed. That’s what came to the attention of third-year Lakehead University business student Silas

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Young. Young, who sits on the Lakehead University Student Union board, was posting bursary opportunities on social media when he received feedback that international students weren’t qualified for the same opportunities as domestic students. “There was a general sense among them—I heard things like, ‘I feel like I’m down to my identity. I feel like there’s not enough support,’” Young says.

staying in the country, let alone staying at their university,” Young says. “A lot of students didn’t have the necessary support to get their lives together and continue pursuing their dreams.” The group also hopes to host events to further help ease in students from a social standpoint. In December, the program provided 100 holiday meals to give students a sense of belonging over the holiday season. Young believes this sense of inclusivity benefits the student body as a whole. “When you’re connecting with different people who have different ideas and come from different places, it enhances your own self-growth and learning,” he says. ASSIST is still looking to fill vacant board positions for community leaders who are interested. For more info visit assisttbay.ca.

This is Thunder Bay

CityScene

Stories and photos submitted by readers With Valentine’s Day right in the middle of the month, we asked The Walleye’s readers to tell us about their most memorable Valentine’s Day/experience with love.

Barbara: “Spending V Day in Costa Rica is a special kind of love affair with a stunningly beautiful country. The lush vegetation, protected cloud forests, and interacting with monkeys melts every wilderness heart. It also made us miss loved ones back home to share the inner butterflies, so we decided to make them this collage of the beach rocks and a sand message. We were rewarded with a message on the bed in the B&B that night.”

Heather: “I knew my husband would likely say yes anyway, but I chose a Valentine’s dinner to float the idea of getting bees... when he couldn’t say no!”

Amy: “One Valentine’s Day when my best friend and I were in university, I was spending reading week visiting her at school in Toronto. We didn’t realize that it was Valentine’s Day at all, but we really wanted to go out for dinner the night I landed. We went to like five different places and none of them had tables. Finally we got to Milestones, and they were like ‘yeah, we have this one option.’ It was a set menu at a long table filled with couples all madly in love, and there we were: two girls who just wanted a good meal. Best Valentine’s Day ever.”

Katharine: “Met this man named Hawk through our local band The Honest Heart Collective. Four years ago Hawk decided to come here to meet all the band members’ families and just have a vacation. I was newly single and sworn off all men forever. And then I met him. It was pretty instant that we clicked. We long distanced for just over a year. Two-and-a-half years ago, Hawk up and quit his job of 20 years to move here. Christmas Eve 2020, he got down on one knee, looked me in the eye and said ‘I love you and I want you to be my wife.’ We are both in our early 60s. All I can say is love doesn’t have an age, a time, or a place. Love that’s meant to be will find its way home.”

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CityScene

WALL SPACE

The Art of Cross-Country Grooming Kamview Nordic Centre

Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photos by Kay Lee

 General Manager Dave Suttie is Kamview’s only full-time staff member. Suttie has been part of the not-for-profit organization for almost 10

years, and is in his third year as GM. If he had to pick his favourite “space,” he says he’d choose the Jackrabbit trail because it really gives a good sense of what Kamview is all about.

hen it comes to maximizing outdoor space, Kamview Nordic Centre taps into the beauty of being outside in Northwestern Ontario. With some 600-plus acres (over

240 hectares) of land just south of the city, tucked alongside the Nor’Westers in the boreal forest, the beauty of Kamview is appealing not only to cross-country skiers and snowshoers in the winter, but also

 Within its larger trail system, Kamview has over five kilometres of well-

lit trails, a three-kilometre trail for skiers with dogs, and 15 kilometres of snowshoeing trails. Ski and snowshoe rentals are also available (when not in a lockdown situation). Suttie also mentions that snowshoeing has become especially popular in the past couple of years.

to hikers and runners in the off-season. But it is the skiing for which Kamview is best known, including their family-centred events and local races hosted throughout the season, as well as more far-reaching events like last year’s Special Olympics and 1995’s Nordic World Ski Championships. Typically, there are more than 30 kilometres of groomed skiing trails at Kamview and general manager Dave Suttie says membership is up, which is encouraging. Grooming

continues to be an important part of every day, regardless of snow conditions. “There’s no typical day for me,” explains Suttie. “Lately my day starts at 5 am. Some days it’s earlier.” When there is more snow, grooming can last up to six hours, starting at 9 pm when the centre closes and continuing until 3 am. Suttie usually works about 12 hours, which means he sometimes gets to be the first to test the trails during the off-hours. “I do try to ski a few times a week,” he says.

 Kamview Nordic Centre is part of Thunder Bay Nordic Trails, which was

established in 1982 and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. In addition to grooming Kamview, Suttie explains that they also do grooming for Kakabeka Falls and Sleeping Giant Provincial Parks.

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CityScene

 In addition to this yellow 1996 Ski-Doo, there are four other machines that  The cherry red, German-designed PistenBully is a snow grooming marvel,

the organization uses to help groom the trails.

featuring wide rubber tracks and a hydraulic rototiller, which digs into the snow and takes the air out.

 Because of its wide rubber tracks, the PistenBully snow groomer, despite

its weight, creates little compression in the snow.

 There is a real sense of community at Kamview. Many members, includ-

ing families, have been skiing here for decades. Suttie’s own father was one of the organization’s past presidents. Art from Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School hangs in the chalet (unfortunately closed due to COVID), and a stained-glass window commemorates a former member who passed away a few years ago in a cycling accident.

 Snow groomers are used to create the corduroy pattern, which loosens up

the snow so it’s easier to ski on.

 In low-snow conditions, Suttie tows specialized grooming and track-set-

ting equipment with a snowmobile because it has less impact. It still creates a corduroy effect and sets the tracks. All grooming at Kamview is done at night or super early in the day. Suttie says he’s seen some foxes, owls, and lots of rabbits and deer this year while on the trails.

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CityScene

Ice Ice Baby

Embracing the Outdoors in Northwestern Ontario By Rachel Rizzuto, Research Manager, Northern Policy Institute

n Northern Ontario, there is an abundance of outdoor activities right on our doorstep that can help break the winter blues. According to the provincial government, in 2017 Tourism Region 13c (which covers the districts of Thunder Bay, Rainy River, and nearly all of Kenora) saw almost 58,000 person visits for participation in skiing/snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, according to the province. Of that total, most people were from Ontario and the majority of visits included an overnight stay. And these activities are happening right behind the tree line. In fact, for cross-country skiing alone, there are over 100 kilometres of trails. For those who aren’t into cross-country skiing, fear not, as there are tons of hiking trails in both provincial parks that are open for the winter, as well as the trails that are a part of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority. While these are more traditional activities, don’t be afraid to think

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outside of the box, too. There are opportunities to capture the city of Thunder Bay and the surrounding area in all of its winter glory through the simple click of a camera. Photos

like these can be valuable, not just to get you out of the house, but as a marketing and attraction tool for people looking to move to Thunder Bay. Beyond job prospects, opportunities for family activities can be just as important for individuals looking to move to a new community. So if you find yourself at the 2021 Voyageur Winter Carnival, snap a pic. Now, you may be asking why you should go outside, even if activities like these are happening. Good question. One answer is health.

While one’s health is determined by much more than just how much they exercise (income, sex, and where you live are some of the factors that can influence an individual’s health), physical activity can have a positive impact. From 2011 to 2017, we see that a good percentage of individuals in Thunder Bay participated in outdoor activities close to home. Below is a sample of communities—broken down into census metropolitan areas—of similar size across Ontario. The focus of health in relation to recreational activities is one of the five key goals in the City of Thunder Bay’s Recreation and Facilities Master Plan. Specifically, it outlines objectives such as ensuring everyone has an opportunity to participate regardless of age, ability, income, and ethnicity, as well as to encourage physical activity as an important component of one’s dayto-day life. In addition to this, the plan outlines that through the City’s community services department, around $32 million dollars per year is spent on the operation of programs, buildings, parks, and other open spaces. Overall, it’s clear that Thunder Bay is ready for you and your family this winter—all you have to do is take a step out the front door.

CityScene

Slate River Dairy By Pat Forrest

Keegan Richard

GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET

Nicole Mol, daughter of Wilma and Jim, at the market

Wilma Mol getting the filler ready for filling whole milk in bottles

Cynthia Vis, Sunny Creek Studio

about 60% of their total sales came from their presence at the market. When COVID hit, the Mols thought this could put them out of business. But having more customers drive out to their store in search of local dairy, beef, eggs, and the addition of the market online store has kept them going strong. They have also added an online store to their website, slateriverdairy.com, and now people have the option to buy their products and pick them up from the market or have them delivered to their homes. The Mols milk about 45 cows each day, producing about 1,000 litres of milk. This abundance has enabled them to expand their offerings to include different varieties of cultured products, including blueberry and plain buttermilk, kefir, eggnog, whipping cream, chocolate milk, a variety of cheeses, and butter. The milk is pasteurized at 63°C for 30 minutes and is not homogenized. “This milk is the closest you are going to get to raw milk and its most natural state,” Wilma says. “All our whole milk products are made from milk straight from the cow, so all the goodness the cow puts in the milk is there for you to enjoy.”

Cynthia Vis, Sunny Creek Studio

s children of dairy farmers, Jim and Wilma Mol grew up appreciating the quality and taste of raw milk. Jim was raised on a farm near Thunder Bay, while Wilma was brought up in Radewijk in the Netherlands. The couple met when Wilma came to Canada to work as a farmhand. They married in 1991 and have four children. In 1996, the Mols bought their own farm in the Slate River Valley. Having witnessed what they describe as a decline of quality in dairy products for sale, they decided to “put milk back into dairy products,” according to Wilma. On August 17, 2015, they opened their new facility, called Slate River Dairy, with their first batch of bottled milk and yogurt for sale to the public. Two days later, they took their products to the Thunder Bay Country Market. Having had a positive experience when their boys sold vegetables at the market in 2009 and with Wilma having served as a board member, they were confident in this move. “All we had to do was bring local products and try to get people’s attention as they walked by our booth,” Wilma says. “That first Wednesday there was a huge lineup at our booth. We were amazed, and still are,” she continues, adding that

The butter churn at the Slate River Dairy plant Bottles of Slate River Dairy milk on sale at the Thunder Bay Country Market

Keegan Richard

Cynthia Vis, Sunny Creek Studio

A half-gallon bottle being filled

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CityScene

The launch of the 2020 coat drive. From left to right: Melody Macsemchuk (Grace Place), Emily Shandruk (Precious Bundles), Michelle Jordan (Shelter House), Jon Wynn (Gear Up), Tom Pazianos, Bob Stewart (The Keg Steakhouse + Bar)

Gear Up for Continued Success Winter Coat Drive Sets Record for Donations By Marcia Arpin

ear Up for Outdoors, in partnership with The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, continued their tradition this year of collecting seasonal clothing for those in need.

When meeting with his staff, Gear Up owner Jon Wynn knew there would be no barrier that would keep the annual event from continuing. With research and a collective

Ken Boshcoff (right) makes the first donation to the contactless collection bin

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passion from many community partners, The 14th Annual Spread the Warmth (contactless) Winter Coat Drive was launched in October 2020. With health and safety protocols for COVID-19 in place, the team confidently gathered numerous articles of seasonal clothing, like coats, for those in Thunder Bay in need of extra warmth during the winter months. “Whether it was families [being] at home to clean and purge more extra clothes than usual, or the giant heart of Thunder Bay beating more than ever, this year had more

items by a huge amount compared to past years,” Wynn says. The community generously donated 1,320 winter jackets for the season. Grace Place, Precious Bundles, and Shelter House were the recipients of the jackets. Wynn also acknowledges the many community groups and businesses that rallied their employees to collect coats. He is also grateful to the hockey teams and schools who also participated by gathering large donations. The clothing drive ended on December 20, 2020. After this year’s success, planning for a 15th clothing drive has begun. The team is likely to continue to maintain the same protocols—not only for health and safety benefits, but because the organizers realized the new system to gather jackets made for more efficient collection and distribution of the winter gear. In the future, all coats must be washed and clean, each individual jacket must be delivered in a clear plastic bag, the size of the garment must be labelled on each bag, and drop off will likely continue to be outdoors. “So many in our community are blessed by the donations of winter coats,” Wynn says. “There is never trouble finding a warm fit for those in need. The generosity of our community and outlying areas has always left a lasting impression on all those who benefit from your generous donations.”

A donation of 50 jackets collected by the Thunder Bay Kings Hockey program

CityScene

CANNABIS CORNER

The Herb and the Urge Sex and Cannabis Use By Justin Allec

n cannabis culture, some people believe that the herb is an unparalleled aphrodisiac. Champions of cannabis as a sex booster argue that the increased sensitivity to stimuli—i.e. touching—and increased mental focus lead to better bedroom romps. Could there be some truth to the idea that indulging in cannabis can lead to greater sexual enjoyment? After doing the reading, I will spare you the tension and say that, when it comes to cannabis and sex, it depends on the individual. We simply don’t know everything about how cannabis interacts with us physiologically, so no one can definitively say how it might influence sex. You can make assumptions based on past experiences and terpenes profiles, but you won’t really know if you’re in a heightened

mood until after you indulge—and what about your partner? Similarly, sex, even for an individual, is also complicated. What feels great one day might be the last thing on your mind the next, never mind mixing in cannabis. However, there are some interpretations to be gleaned from the studies. Part of the hesitancy for researchers to make conclusions about cannabis and sexual enjoyment is that it’s difficult to measure and set parameters, unlike studies looking at, say, cannabis use and erectile dysfunction. The studies I read were based on surveys. While surveys can show a correlation, such as between cannabis use and increased sexual satisfaction, they can’t tell us why that relationship exists. A person may respond to a survey and say that using cannabis

before sex leads to a better orgasm, but is that a true causation, or are they just responding that way because they enjoy cannabis overall? The older surveys I looked at posit that using cannabis before sex can increase a person’s desire for a familiar partner, increase satisfaction and pleasure, and improve the sensation of touching. A more recent study using only women’s responses found that there was a correlation between cannabis use and stronger orgasms, but it didn’t push cannabis use before sex—if you’re using cannabis, this survey says, you’re having better sex overall. Despite the lack of conclusions, there’s no shortage of cannabis products that claim to provide a love potion. The problems with these claims are that they are usually crowd-sourced by the providers

and then spun into marketing schemes; there’s no “sexier” strain, just branding. A cannabis product might even sink your plans, as overindulging will derail your bedroom romp. There’s the pitfalls of lethargy, paranoia, and that spiralling inward focus that takes you away from your partner. There’s also potential numbness in the pleasure receptors and genitals. A final issue worth considering is consent. Introducing a substance into a sexual situation should only be done with the full awareness of both parties. If you are still interested in using cannabis as a boost to your sex life, I would offer the same advice I would to a beginner: pick a low dosage and go slow. Ensure your partner is on board. And realize that there’s potential for a good time, even without the cannabis.

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Honouring Survivors

Thunder Bay Public Library Project to Document History, Legacy of Local Residential School By Matt Prokopchuk

wide-ranging initiative by the Thunder Bay Public Library featuring research and educational components along with artwork and a podcast will commemorate the history and legacy, as well as honour the survivors of, a residential school that operated locally for nearly 100 years. St. Joseph’s Residential School, where the current-day Pope John Paul II Senior Elementary School is, closed for that purpose in the late 1960s and the site shuttered completely in 1970, according to federal government research submitted to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Robyn Medicine, the Indigenous liaison for the Thunder Bay Public Library, who is leading the project—called Stories of Anishinaabe Resilience, or SOAR—says it’s important

60 The Walleye

to hear from survivors and their families about what students went through at the school, and to go beyond the official records and reports produced to date. “I would be honoured to record their stories because the whole goal, my goal, with this project is to learn about St. Joseph’s and the St. Joseph’s Residential School experience from Indigenous people who attended or whose family members who attended there,” she says, adding that the podcast will be devoted to those accounts. “If we’re able, [we will] actually reach out to, and interview, and listen to stories of what the impact of St. Joseph’s Residential School had on them and their families—because the whole goal of residential schools was to assimilate.” In addition to the podcast, the

project will also feature an extensive research report on the school’s history, and the library will also work with an educator to create curricula tailored to be used in the city’s elementary and secondary schools. The art component will feature work by Indigenous artists and those pieces will become part of the library’s permanent collection, with murals at the Brodie and Waverley Resource Libraries and “hopefully,” Medicine says, portraits of

survivors. Another possibility, she says, is an outdoor mural on the side of the Brodie Street branch, which is down the street from the former St. Joseph’s site. Medicine says the project builds off the annual Orange Shirt Days, held every September 30, to raise awareness of residential schools and their legacy, as well as to honour the Indigenous children who attended them; she says she was inspired to do more to increase awareness after listening to experiences of St. Joseph’s school survivors at these events. “I think it’s important to give the Indigenous families who […] attended St. Joseph’s, or even residential schools in general, an opportunity to share their experience,” she says. The project is slated to be completed by the end of March, with an official release to follow, although COVID-19 may change those plans. Overall, Medicine says the initiative is about uncovering the truth of what happened at St. Joseph’s and detailing the lasting impact it had, adding that “we would like to promote sharing, healing and learning […] within Thunder Bay.” If you would like to connect with the Stories of Anishinaabe Resilience project, please contact Robyn Medicine at rmedicine@tbpl.ca or call 345-8275 ext 7252 and leave a message.

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Storytelling brings out more stories and we are here to listen

Arlene, 51, is a crisis intervention worker and also a volunteer with Hospice Northwest. She is able to offer cultural experiences, love and understanding, to the clients she visits. She views hospice as a celebration of life, where end of life can be approached with peace. Volunteering continually reminds her how special life is.

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Music

Students from Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School on stage with July Talk at the 2019 Wake the Giant music festival

Close to the Heart Michelle Addison Collecting Love Letters to Live Music

Story by Sara Sadeghi Aval, Photo by Darren McChristie

hen Michelle Addison was only five years old, her mother took her to her very first live musical. She distinctly remembers crying at the end of the show, unwilling to leave without another encore. Fast forward to today, and the last live show Addison remembers attending was one featuring local Blues Society band The Shortstops, playing at Loch Lomond Ski Area almost 12 months ago. Regardless of life’s

ever-changing scenery, Addison has managed to always keep live music in her view, so it’s no surprise that she took it upon herself in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic to reminisce about the event that had made her cry all those years ago. Thus, her passion project, Love Letters to Live Music, began. “I figured as much as we must be missing live music, imagine how much it must be missing us,” she says. “I was actually reading Big

Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert at the time, and I realized I had to put aside all preconceived notions of what live music meant to me, as she states in her book. I started to think of live music as a living entity and decided to show appreciation to the thing that brings me so much joy.” Addison is heavily involved in the music scene in Thunder Bay, with a focus on fan engagement, and helping musical artists maintain connections with their fan bases through social media. Her commitment to music is not only evident in her work, but also in her family life. Addison recounts rock concerts with her teenage children, and the time she and her kids met Mumford & Sons backstage. Her dedication to genuine connection and networking enables her to not only experience

music in a unique way, but to share it as well. “Connecting to music connects us all. Right now, we can be connected through the celebration of live music,” she says. Her vision consists of fans and musicians sending in their letters expressing their gratitude and admiration of live music. She will then share each letter to the public in an online interactive forum. Addison has been collecting love letters from friends and family for a short time, and now invites all music lovers and musicians alike to submit their own love letter to live music at michelle@gobeyondtheshow.com. Stay tuned to her platforms, including her Instagram @gobeyondtheshow, for the reveal in February.

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Music

BURNING TO THE SKY

Rick Beato on his YouTube series What Makes This Song Great?

Rick Beato Two Cool What Makes This Song Great? Musical Appreciation Channels on YouTube

Tom Bukovac Homeskoolin’ (Corona Lessons)

Story and photo by Gord Ellis

Unlike Beato, who puts a great deal of effort into the production of his videos, Bukovac is lowtech. The Homeskoolin’ episodes were largely recorded during the early part of the pandemic, when studios were shuttered and Bukovac was sitting at home bored. The lessons are shot on his iPhone, in what looks like a garage with music gear piled behind him. Bukovac also often looks like he has just rolled out of bed. Yet the information he passes on in is a masterclass of guitar stylings, record making, and negotiating the modern day music business. Bukovac covers everything from speed picking like Eddie Van Halen, to the finger picking genius of Fleetwood Mac’s Lindsey Buckingham. The videos are funny, inspiring, and ultra laid back. He peppers his videos with interesting stories, snarky asides, the occasional f-bomb, and a pure love of musicmaking. Although the regularity of the videos seems to have tapered off, the ones Bukovac has done remain an encyclopedia for guitarists, musicians, and up-and-coming artists who want to know how to get it done in 2021.

he internet has certainly changed just about every aspect of the music world. Streaming, social media, and file sharing completely disassembled the historic music business and, many would argue, made it harder for artists to make money off their work. But the internet has also allowed musicians to share knowledge, tricks, and techniques in new and unique ways. Not that terribly long ago, a young guitar player would have to sit by the record player, dropping the needle over and over to pick up a Jimmy Page lick or a Keith Richards chord sequence. Those days are gone. Online music tutorials and appreciation channels have pulled away the veil between pro and amateur, allowing an unprecedented flow of information and entertainment. These channels are largely YouTube based and have exploded in popularity during the pandemic. Here are two really good ones.

64 The Walleye

Rick Beato is an American musician, songwriter, author, producer, and teacher who lives in Georgia. He has written songs with—and produced music for—a variety of performers. He also owns Blackdog Sound in Atlanta. Beato began his YouTube career quite by accident in 2019, when he posted a video of himself and his young son Dylan. The boy has perfect pitch and is able to identify individual notes within complex chords. The video received 33 million views and launched Beato’s YouTube presence. He’s a brilliant musician for sure, but he is also an incredibly enthusiastic music fan with wide-ranging tastes. On his series What Makes This Song Great? Beato breaks down classic songs by bands ranging from Boston and Metallica to Slipknot and Gordon Lightfoot. His friendly demeanor and off-hand brilliance when he discusses music theory is a winning mix. He is positively ecstatic as he breaks down Gordon Lightfoot’s guitar playing on “If You could Read My Mind.” Beato also has some great stories to go with many of the songs. In one special episode he reimagines the famous guitar solo in “Stairway to Heaven.” Beato and Phil X play the guitar solo in the styles of Peter Frampton and Phil X respectively, while Eric Johnson plays it in his own style. Sheer brilliance.

I have to thank my Thunder Bay-based musician friend John Laco for turning me on to Tom Bukovac. Like Rick Beato, Bukovac is hardly a household name. Yet in Nashville, Bukovac is about as high up the studio musician food chain as you can get. He is a first-call guitarist in a town where everyone is a killer player. The list of artists that Bukovak has recorded with is long and includes Stevie Nicks, Blake Shelton, Sheryl Crow, Carrie Underwood, LeAnn Rimes, Bob Seger, and Dolly Parton, to name just a few.

Music

Shared Image

Craig Delin Releases Solo Debut By Jamie Varga

ho Decides Who Does What, the newly released album from Shared Image (a.k.a. Craig Delin), is yet another perfect example of a local piece of work created despite the adversity of the COVID-19 pandemic essentially shutting down the entertainment world, not because of it. I don’t know if I can explain it any better other than to say that

listening to this album doesn’t make you feel as though you’re listening to a reaction or a reflection of these troubled times, but is just another fantastic piece of local music that was created with or without a pandemic happening in the background. When asked what the inspiration for the album was, Delin simply says, “I had a couple of the songs already written and decided

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that while I was working away from home and couldn’t really go out anywhere, I would work out some new ideas and start recording. I thought it would be a good time to do it since, because of COVID, I was basically trapped in hotel rooms for a couple of months on end and said ‘Hey! Why not?’” Delin has been a part of the local music scene for some time, playing in several different bands and projects such as Sueisfine and Hey You Millionaires. But for those of you who know his previous work, I am happy to report that many of

the tracks are surprises. Only one track, “Stop the Silence,” is what I would call expected. I mean that in all that right ways, though, and even though the rest of an album is a bit of a step away, it is all fantastic and well worth your time. Humble beyond words and talented beyond comparison, Delin has hit this solo debut out of the park. You can find Who Decides Who Does What in all the usual places such as iTunes and Spotify, and at sharedimage.bandcamp.com. #RIGHTdeadly

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Music

Finding a Pocketful of Stars Altamadum Bask in the Afterglow By Justin Allec

From left to right: Cam Thomas (guitar), Sam Mucha (vocals), James Cole (bass), Brendan Byers (drums)

hen the pandemic started, local rockers Altamadum decided to release a singles project they had been considering. Over the course of their decade-plus existence, the

66 The Walleye

quartet had written eight songs that needed homes. Last spring, Altamadum decided to release the songs in pairs and call the project Through. Motion. Chronicles. Not knowing what the future would

bring, “it seemed like a way to stay relevant and present in the minds of our fans,” says bassist James Cole. It was also keeping with the band’s work ethic. Starting as a trio in 2007, Cole played alongside Cam Thomas on guitar and Brendan Byers on drums. When they brought on vocalist Sam Mucha in 2010, the band really began to progress. Over the course of four albums and one EP, Altamadum developed a signature rock sound—spaced-out but riffy, with a potent rumble running underneath and Mucha’s vocals embracing every bit of tension until he hits those catalyzing choruses. However, around the same time that the Through. Motion. Chronicles. came out, the pandemic resulted in lockdowns and life— demanding jobs, young families— getting in the way. While pleased with the work on Chronicles, Cole says he was also wondering what would happen next with the band. It turns out the next step was another album “almost overnight,” Cole says, laughing. When restrictions relaxed in the summer, Mucha—who had been absent the

most due to being a new dad—arrived with a batch of eight songs nearly ready to go. The rest of the band was shocked, but decided to run with the material. Born in the Afterglow, Altamadum’s fifth album, was fleshed out with some additional songs and then mixed and mastered at ThunderSound Studio by long-time trusted producer Russ Elder. Cole explains the new album’s title as a way of marking the success they’ve had and the surprises that can still happen. “I wasn’t too sure where the band was going. […] But then when Mucha showed up with the new songs, the album was born out of nothing, born out of a time when I thought the band’s light had gone out.” Rejuvenated, Cole is obviously disappointed that Altamadum won’t get to premiere their new material live, but he’s never been more confident about the future of the band. Born in the Afterglow was released in late January. Check altamadum.com for up-to-date information and how to get your hands on a copy.

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Music

Sunday wilde

Harpdog Brown

Peace in Trouble Sunday wilde Records New Album By Ken Wright

ith the independent release of her ninth album, internationally acclaimed blues singer and songwriter Sunday wilde has ample reason to be pumped. Titled Peace in Trouble, it has metaphorical meaning. “‘Peace’ is one of my new songs and ‘Trouble’ is one of my new songs,” wilde says. “We all need to find peace within our trouble in order to be okay.” The current COVID-19 pandemic has put limits on direct interaction with fans and bandmates, as well as live performances and, of course, revenue—all of which wilde dearly misses. But regular recording and constant songwriting have always been an integral part of her artistic regimen. Her sultry voice, ever-improving skills on her new upright piano— which makes its debut here—and Mike Carson’s stand-up bass underpin the album’s 10 original blues boogie-woogies and ballads, as well as a Willie Nelson cover. Sticking with her old-school minimalist

preferences, guitar and drums are absent by choice. Instead, the judicious use of clarinet, trumpet, and trombone adds sonic shadings that complement the songs without cluttering their content. Local engineer and long-time collaborator Greg Schultz looked after the technical sound and mixing details of the album, which was recorded in two sessions in wilde’s living room. The opportunity to work with Harpdog Brown, one of Canada's finest blues harmonica virtuosos, was a “dream come true,” wilde says. The two became friends after crossing paths a few times. Brown served as advisor and co-producer on the project and his amazing harmonica “put some colour on it.” “She’s a refreshing spirit. She's not trying to sound like Janis Joplin,” says Brown, appraising wilde’s uniqueness. “I like that.” As with her other albums, wilde remains devoted to her artistic mission of focusing on the song. “"I want women my age to hear these songs. I want young people that are

going through hard times to hear the message in the songs,” she says. “If one of these songs makes someone feel better, to get through their day, that’s the whole point for me as a songwriter and singer. That's why I do it; that’s the stuff that gives me satisfaction.” All in all, Sunday wilde is very

pleased with the album and how it has come together as part of her ongoing musical journey. “I've always wanted it like this,” she says. For more, you can visit sundaywilde.com and follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/sunday. wilde.

Sunday’s piano getting tuned up by Matthias Rom

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Music

Kyle Shushack in his Hamilton apartment prior to the COVID-19 pandemic

After Effects

Kyle Shushack Shares His Battle With COVID-19 By Matt Prokopchuk

hen Kyle Shushack started feeling under the weather in late November, he didn’t think too much of it at first. The talented veteran of the Thunder Bay music scene, who moved to Hamilton in 2019 to further his music career and explore new opportunities, had been apprenticing as a stonemason, where he does most of his work at outdoor job sites. When he first fell ill, he took a couple of days off from his job, after which he says he started to feel a little bit better and returned to work. But that’s when his symptoms flared up worse than before: an intense and persistent headache, body aches, constant coughing, weakness, and a high fever. “It got to the point where my boss

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had to tell me to go home,” he says, adding that unlike illnesses such as colds and flus he’s had in the past, this one wouldn’t go away. “It just got progressively worse from there.” At the end of the week, he went to get a COVID test and three days later, the results came back. Shushack tested positive for the novel coronavirus—one of the hundreds of thousands of Ontarians who have done so since last March (Shushack says none of his colleagues has since gotten sick or tested positive, and, as of early January, he had not returned to work). While a number of his initial symptoms have since subsided, Shushack says he’s still dealing with some of the virus’s known longer-term complications, such as constant fatigue and a loss of taste

and smell. Also troubling for the guitarist, known in the Lakehead for his years in countless groups such as the Alaska Army Band, Bay City Sound Collective, and the Martin Blanchet Jazz Quintet, as well as his solo and session work, is a loss of dexterity in his hands. “Not being able to play guitar the way I used to […] it’s demoralizing,” he says. As a 33-year-old who also rock climbs and cycles, and says, prior to getting sick, that he “was in the best shape” of his life, Shushack stresses that COVID-19 can have serious effects on anyone. He also posted a lengthy message on his Facebook page in December, describing his ordeal and urging people not to “downplay this thing.” That post was quickly shared nearly 200 times. “I was naive to that,” he says,

referring to his former belief that because of his age and overall good health, that he wasn’t at risk of COVID-19’s nasty side, even though he’s always believed in the seriousness of the virus in general. “I was never worried for myself—every precaution I took was for other people—I was never concerned for my own well-being. I was wrong to not be concerned.” While recovery has been slow, Shushack says he’s trying to stay positive and focus on the fact that he was likely spared an even worse fate. “If it was someone who was immune-compromised or elderly who got it the way I did, they’d be dead,” he says. “Don’t think that you’re invincible from this […] Stay vigilant and stay safe—I’m going to get better, but some people won’t.”

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February Entrepreneurs of the Month

Babes + Blends

at the core of their business model. Both Katie and Amanda strive to use all-natural products and continuously work at having chemical-free homes. For the pair, Babes + Blends started as a hobby. They would get together once a week to brainstorm new blends and products for their friends and family. After receiving much praise for their creations, they decided to make an Instagram account to share their products with everyone. Within a few short months, their hobby turned into a job. Babes + Blends was officially established in 2020, offering five to 10 products; now almost a year later, that has grown to 30 to 40 all-natural products, which can help with anxiety, pain relief, and almost everything in between. To check out their full list of products, visit babesblends.com. Meet Katie Anderson & Amanda Paquet, the owners and wellness gurus behind Babes + Blends. These mommas have been friends for over a decade and have been in business together for almost a year. Using essential oils and natural products is a passion they both share and, as busy moms with young families, the convenience of ready-to-use products was

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Q: What drew you to entrepreneurship?

Katie & Amanda: We knew that Thunder Bay has great support for local businesses. It was a community we wanted to be a part of. Being moms of young children, we knew that working for ourselves would give us the flexibility we wanted as well as fulfill the need

to put ourselves out there into our wonderful community. Q: What is your most memorable moment being an entrepreneur?

K & A: When we had local businesses reach out to us, asking us to be involved in collabs, markets, shops, and holiday boxes! Q: Who was your biggest inspiration/ mentor?

K & A: That is definitely a hard one! We look up to so many local artisans and small businesses here in Thunder Bay and it would be unfair to just pick one or two. We both knew that we wanted to own a business together and this is just the beginning of our business journey together. Q: If you could go back in time what piece of advice would you give yourself?

K & A: That not everything can happen at once. It takes time, hard work, and sleepless nights. When your business grows organically you know that you’re taking all the right steps and it’s worth the risk!

Music

Lindsey Herle Violinist, TBSO By Kris Ketonen Born: Fort McMurray, Alberta Instrument: Violin Age you started to study music: Piano at age 6, violin at age 8 How long have you been with TBSO: In her second season What’s on personal playlist: Mellow indie folk, such as Of Monsters and Men The Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s Lindsey Herle brings a lifelong love of the violin to the stage. “My mom really likes to tell the story of how I was watching Sesame Street when I was three, and the really famous violinist Itzhak Perlman was a guest on the show,” Herle says. “Apparently, ever since I saw him, I was asking for violin lessons.” “I do remember being very young and wanting to play the violin,” she continues. “I can’t really remember a time that I didn’t want to.” Herle began studying piano at age six, and two years later began to play the violin. That early interest in violin certainly wasn’t a passing one either, as she now plays the instrument professionally with the TBSO. “There’s a sense of fulfillment when I can create the sounds that I want,”

Herle says. “It’s kind of a never-ending journey.” “There were definitely some years when I was a teenager where I didn’t want to practice as much,” she continues. “But I never really even thought about not doing it. It’s just always been a part of me.” Herle would go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Victoria. “From there, I went on to study with Bill van der Sloot at Mount Royal Conservatory in Calgary, where I was in a non-credited program,” she says. “They have a special advanced performance program there that I did for two years to prepare for grad school. Then I auditioned for a few different ones, and ended up going to the University of Ottawa. I did my master’s there.” After graduation, Herle auditioned for different orchestras, and ended up earning a seat with the TBSO. “It has always been my dream to play in a professional orchestra,” Herle says. “I was really excited and really happy that I managed to win an audition in my first year after my master’s degree.”

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OfftheWall

For the Love of It

Femur

REVIEWS

Tilt N' Shake

Sweetwood Amber Remedy

A February treat that came out in late December, the second full-length from local trio Femur will warm the cockles of your jaded, isolated heart. Two years after their debut Red Marks firmly planted a flag in the local metal scene, Love shows Femur taking a more nuanced approach to their posthardcore/metalcore style. The heaviness is inherent, as Love rumbles and gnashes and flexes and ploughs through your earholes, but it’s not interested in domination. Or rather, it’s not only interested in domination. Red Marks proved Femur can bulldoze through a stack of amps to waste a crowd, but rather than pull the same trick twice, Love adds some melody and deeply personal weight to Femur’s songs. That vulnerability is, of course, tied to music strong enough to smash a hole through a brick wall, so I’d definitely call this album a step up. Whether it’s a live-wire song like “The Shakes” with its unsettling twitchiness, or the confident construction during “Welcome Wind II” that further explores the best postmetal riff Pelican didn’t write, Femur have found their sense of grandeur. I’d call that a positive start to the year.

Sweetwood Amber Remedy is the latest project from Toronto-based Thunder Bay transplant Cody Vaillant, who returns to recording after a hiatus of over six years. Vaillant’s music has always skillfully and unabashedly mined and paid tribute to the sounds and attitude of hard rock’s 1970s and 1980s halcyon daze, and fans of that ethos—not to mention hooky, riffdriven, heavy rock and roll—will be very impressed with Tilt N' Shake. From the frantic opening riff of the instrumental title track to the final cymbal echo on album-closing “My Guitar,” the energy never lets up, with Vaillant’s vocals soaring over top of some high-intensity lead and rhythm guitar work. Bassist Tyson Hiseler and drummer Mike Schlosser join Vaillant in this power trio, while guest musicians Chris (Starboy) Cunnane from retro-glamsters Robin Black and the Intergalactic Rock Stars, Clem C. Clemsen from White Cowbell Oklahoma, and Vaillant’s former Wildheart bandmate Scotty B. Goode also lend a hand.

- Justin Allec

- Matt Prokopchuk

Greenfields: The Gibb Brothers Songbook Vol. 1 Barry Gibb

Barry, Maurice, and Robin Gibb, better known as the Bee Gees, were on top of the pop music world from the late 1960s through to the early 1980s. The group had hit after hit and won a bundle of Grammy Awards. Today, Barry is the only surviving brother. Greenfields: The Gibb Brothers Songbook Vol. 1 is a re-recording of some of those classic hits. Barry wanted a country feel to the album and has some of the genre’s heavy hitters to help him out. The songs on the album stay true to the originals, but add a county flair. The production is clean, but a little overdone on a few tunes with strings and background vocals to my taste. Gibb’s vocals are solid throughout and the harmonies and duets are top-notch. Favourite songs include “Jive Talkin,’” with a killer bass line and excellent vocals from Miranda Lambert and Jay Buchanan; Alison Krauss also sparkles on “Too Much Heaven.” If you’re in the mood for some feel-good musical nostalgia these days, then give Greenfields a spin. - Gerald Graham

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Eleven

Boreal Ultimate Music Society COVID-19, despite its best efforts, could not stop the organizers of AmberFest—affectionately known as the B.U.M.S. (Boreal Ultimate Music Society)—from giving us a taste of the local talent that graces their stage from year to year. As an alternative to a live festival, they gathered up 11 bands to showcase what could have been, and fittingly called the record Eleven. The acts represented are Toxic Neighbour, The Chain, Cole Myronuk & The Wild, Jim Hamilton, The JB Band, Head Rush, The Roosters, Sunday wilde, Stonehill, Danny Johnson & 21 Gun Fun, and Urban Ditchweed. Featuring blues and good old rock and roll, each of the tracks can stand on their own, but, as a whole, Eleven literally has something for everyone. - Jamie Varga

The Booksellers

D.W. Young

Many of us read print, and in winter, we often dive deeply into books. This beautiful documentary by D.W. Young celebrates the grand tradition of bookstores. It’s not about corporate chains or online monsters that vacuum your credit cards, but about those lovely shops, sometimes small (that little nook down the street), and sometimes huge (New York’s The Strand), where you often go to browse and succumb to purchasing something you didn’t go there for. It is also about the grand tradition of “special editions” and “collectors’ items”— rare books that might cost you more than a mortgage payment. Young reverently looks into all aspects of bookstores, and gets store owners to tell stories (and boy, do they have stories). It also includes deliciously witty comments from the likes of Fran Lebowitz, Susan Orlean, and Gay Talese. Many of these bookstores are closing or are threatened, but Young interviews several fresh, young entrepreneurs who believe in books and their future. I do, too. Highly recommended.

Home Cooking

The Little Book of Hygge

What do you get when you mix together a handful of amazing ingredients with a pinch of love and a dash of brilliant chemistry? How about one satisfying bowlful of comforting goodness, also known as Home Cooking. You’ll immediately find yourself engaged in the hosts’ banter, knowledge, and undeniable friendship as you listen to them answer calls from listeners and interview guests. Take Nosrat’s absolutely infectious laugh and Hirway’s endless puns, pair them with some top-notch cooking advice, and you’ve got yourself a fun and informative podcast that is undoubtedly helping listeners across the world muscle through this pandemic. Warm, inspirational, and downright hilarious, I can honestly say that after finishing only the first episode, my love for cast iron pans intensified, I was inspired to make the creamiest mac and cheese ever, and I had a newfound respect for pinto beans.

What the heck is hygge and why do we keep hearing about it? Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Danish concept about atmosphere and experience, rather than things. It is about feeling cosy, whether enjoying a peaceful moment alone or the company of others. Meik Wiking, the chief executive officer of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, has spent years studying the common denominators among those who consider themselves happy and notes that Denmark consistently reports high levels of happiness. For starters, the country’s policies provide social security, and spending time with loved ones is a key aspect of Danish culture. Wiking explains that hygge incorporates elements of mindfulness such as being present in the here and now and practicing gratitude—meaning focusing on what you have, not what you don’t. An important take-away is that you don’t need to buy anything new to enjoy hyggestund (a moment of hygge): dim the lights and light some candles, find a comfy chair, pour yourself a hot drink, and relax; or bundle up, grab the sled or skis, and head outside to rejuvenate your soul.

Samin Nosrat and Hrishikesh Hirway

- Andrea Lysenko

- Michael Sobota

Meik Wiking

- Michelle McChristie

Ski Games: A Fun-Filled Approach to Teaching Nordic and Alpine Skills Laurie Gullion

Winter is a really fun time of year. Sure, shovelling snow isn’t great, particularly when we’ve gotten so much that there’s nowhere left to put it. But nothing beats a sunny day outside in the snow, especially if your favourite winter activity is crosscountry skiing. Ski Games: A FunFilled Approach to Teaching Nordic and Alpine Skills by Laurie Gullion is a fantastic book to help your children learn how to ski. Knowing that children learn through play, Gullion has devised different games, many of which can be done indoors, that will teach your children the fundamentals of skiing so they can go outside and ski with confidence. Gullion is also a huge advocate for teaching unorthodox methods of skiing, particularly for anyone who has mobility issues that make traditional methods unsuitable, so everyone can go outside and have fun. - Shauna Kosoris

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Architecture

Mount Baldy Ski Chalet Story by Nicholas Duplessis, Photos by Darren McChristie

n the early 1930s, a log cabin at the top of Mount Baldy was used as a base of operations to cut wood. Individuals staying at the cabin would “get to the top in order to have the thrill of running the tote road to the bottom again,” Hayward Hurrell, the president of the Port Arthur Ski Club, was quoted as saying in a 1945 newspaper article, reflecting on the founding of Mount Baldy. Eventually, members of the Port Arthur Ski Club began to more regularly use the site, as their previous location at Strathcona Heights lacked downhill runs. According to Hurrell’s account, skiing first

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occurred at Mount Baldy in the 1933–1934 winter season. The name Mount Baldy comes from the appearance of the hill, as it was first used after the area had been burned over, making it look barren. Several improvements to the site were made during the 1940s and 1950s, including the addition of a tow rope, the creation of a road to the site, the building of the clubhouse, an increase in trails cut, and a bus service to increase the number of visitors to the hill. It was also during this period, in 1946, that the Port Arthur Ski Club took ownership of Mount Baldy.

Architecture The clubhouse was expanded in 1952, and 1954 marked the first national event hosted at the site: the National Junior Ski Championships. The clubhouse was moved from the foot of the hill to its current location, and additions were built that included permanent living quarters for the caterers, an officials’ room, and indoor bathrooms. Mount Baldy has witnessed several owners, national events, setbacks, and improvements. Its current clubhouse is a testament to the progress made in the area over the past 90 years. The clubhouse is an extension of the original structure that sat at the foot of the hill. The most striking exterior feature is the contrast between the red wood panelling and the picture windows. The interior is primarily rustic wood, accentuated by a large stone fireplace where skiers and patrons—particularly children—can congregate after a cold day on the slopes. The upstairs contains a bar area, as well as the opportunity to take in the ski hill in its entirety through the picturesque windows. Mount Baldy has a long and storied history that is deeply intertwined with that of the Port Arthur Ski Club. It has evolved from a downhill slope with one log cabin at the peak and no road access, to a modern ski hill with amenities that has featured national champions, and can be used by skiers of any skill level. Nicholas Duplessis is a member of the City’s Heritage Advisory Committee and sits on the board of directors for the Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society. He can be followed on Twitter @nickduplessis4.

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FebruaryEventsGuide Ongoing Banff Film Festival Virtual World Tour Virtual The Banff Film Festival is online for some #epicadventuresindoors, featuring skiing and snowboarding adventures and the personal stories of inspiring people. Films are offered in two separate programs or as a bundle; prices in USD. See this month’s Top Five for more information. filmfest.banffcentre.ca Ongoing Thunder Bay Museum Virtual Exhibits Virtual Explore the art of artist, mapmaker, and illustrator Hans Krakhofer. Delve deep into Thunder Bay’s past places like the historic Algoma Hotel and the famed Chapples building. Take an illustrated history of the city’s east end. Gather round the kids for A Tail of Two Cities, which sees Jerry Muskrat visiting the museum to discover the history of Fort William and Port Arthur. Peruse items that are unique, historic, and everything in between. See this month’s Top Five for more information. thunderbaymuseum.com February 1 - 28 Fiber February North House Folk School/ Virtual Embrace the warmth and wonder of fibre crafts all month long by participating in online courses and webinars from North House Folk School. Explore craft traditions from knitting and skinfell to felting and sprang. Be sure to sign up soon, as the courses are filling up fast. See this month’s Top Five for more information. northhouse.org

February 4, 6 - 7 pm Cafe-causerie du CCF Virtual Join the Club culturel francophone de Thunder Bay to share a coffee, improve your French vocabulary, and meet francophones with different accents. To join, send an email to ccftb.contact@ gmail.com to receive the link of the meeting. Open to everyone who lives in Thunder Bay. ccftb.ca

February 9, 6 - 8 pm Etsy Essentials Workshop Northwest Business Centre Artisans, crafters, and small business owners can expand their businesses and sell products on Etsy. Learn how to operate your own Etsy shop, add items to sell, drive traffic to your site, tips and tricks, and expand your small business. This workshop is designed for Etsy beginners. Register through Eventbrite. nwbiz.ca

February 6 Sled for Eternity Thunder Bay Ride 2021 Virtual In light of current restrictions and OFSC guidelines, Adult & Teen Challenge has made the decision to change this event to a virtual one. Registration fees have been waived but people are still encouraged to register and fundraise in support of Adult & Teen Challenge. You can purchase a trail pass to help the club and enjoy snowmobiling all winter. Registered riders can still take in the virtual prize giveaway for fundraisers on February 6. teenchallenge.mb.ca

February 13 TBSO Media Project Virtual The province-wide COVID-19 lockdown has changed some of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s planned programming. Instead of the previously announced live-streamed concerts on February 13, the orchestra will be uploading a special Valentine’s Day concert or media project. Stay tuned to TBSO’s website and social media pages for more info. tbso.ca

February 6 Virtual Quiz Night Virtual Stuck at home? You can join a fun, totally virtual evening of trivia and prizes from the comfort of your own home. The virtual quiz night is an opportunity to hold a safe and fun family event while raising funds for Thunder Bay Synchro. Top three teams will win a prize. Event will be held over Google Meet. thunderbaysynchro.ca

Until February 14 Craft Cares SGBC Until February 14, for every SGBC product sold at participating licensee locations, 50 cents from the brewery will be donated to local charities. The SGBC team is helping licensees make a positive impact with the charities and organizations that they care about, giving back, one beer at a time. See this month’s Top Five for more information. sleepinggiantbrewing.ca/ craftcares

February 15 Family Day Various Pack a snack and go for a winter’s hike. Dig out your snowshoes and try an urban trek in Chapples Park or on one of the trails at Centennial. Strap on skis and head to Kamview, Lappe, Kakabeka, or Tapiola for fantastic crosscountry skiing opportunities all a short drive away. Make a snow family in the yard and some hot cocoa for afterwards. See this month’s Top Five for more information. Until March 28 Dakobinaawaswaan (Baby in a Cradleboard) Thunder Bay Art Gallery The exhibit gathers more than 100 tikinagaans (or cradleboards) representing Indigenous communities from across North America. This living collection presents a wide range of imagery, beadwork, and specialized materials. Lovingly dedicated to the late Freda McDonald, the Elder for this initiative. With support from the Cradle Keepers Co-operative. Curated by Caitlyn Bird. theag.ca

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Until March 28 Thunder Bay Winter Fundays Virtual In response to provincial orders and physical distancing mandates, the City of Thunder Bay’s Winter FunDays programming will be delivered virtually this winter. With public safety being top priority, event staff are planning innovative ways of delivering events without encouraging large gatherings. Winter FunDays will begin on Sunday, January 17 and will take place every second Sunday until March 28. thunderbay.ca/en/ recreation/winter-fundays. aspx Until April 18 Piitwewetam: Making Is Medicine Thunder Bay Art Gallery The art gallery is launching a very special exhibition this month that will feature the work of the Gustafsons, a Thunder Bay-based family whose signature floral motif beadwork and intricate designs is known regionally and internationally. This exhibition honours the family’s son and brother Piitwewetam (Rolling Thunder), also known as Jesse Gustafson, who died in a tragic accident several years ago. See the story in our Art section for more information. theag.ca

General Food Art Sports Music

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LU RADIO’S MONTHLY TOP February Show Spotlight

1 Shared Image* Who Decides Who Does What Self-Released

Music Check out our weekly charts online at luradio.ca and tune in to the Top 20 Countdown Mondays from 7-9 am. Keep it locked on 102.7 FM, online streaming at luradio.ca.

9 Alex Maas Luca Innovative Leisure

16 Optic Sink Optic Sink Goner

10 Dan Mangan* Thief Arts & Crafts

17 Fuzz III In The Red 18 Jenny Mayhem* Social Piranha Self-Released 19 Yo La Tengo Sleepless Night Matador

Thunder Geeks

Hosted by Robert Szczepanski, Meagan McEathron, Kyle Wrightson, Chris Plotzki, and Andrew and Alicia Mayo-White Sundays at 10:30 am Hello Thundarians, we’re your Thunder Geeks. Brought to you by LU Radio, we’re a bizarre talk show hosted by Robert Szczepanski, Meagan McEathron, Kyle Wrightson, Chris Plotzki, and Andrew and Alicia Mayo-White. Each week we like to get together to talk about the nerdy stuff we’ve been up to this week, what’s going on in our community, and just try to make you laugh for an hour and a half. We answer the important questions, like which superhero has the better booty, or whether a hot dog is a sandwich. Coming to you every Sunday night at 10:30 on 102.7FM CILU. Song of the Moment:

“Ghost in the Machine” by Double Experience

2 The Dirty Nil* F*ck Art Dine Alone 3 The Zeldas* Heliocentric Self-Released 4 Peeling* Worshipper Labyrinth 5 Population II* À la Ô Terre Castle Face

11 TV Freaks* People Schizophrenic

7 Amanda Tosoff* Earth Voices Self-Released 8 Jesse Ryan* Bridges Fwé Culture

29 Born Ruffians* SQUEEZE Yep Roc

13 Chris Stapleton Starting Over Mercury Nashville

15 Hawksley Workman* Less Rage More Tears Isadora

27 King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard K.G. Flightless 28 William Prince Gospel First Nation Six Shooter

12 Gorillaz Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez Warner

14 Kiwi Jr.* Cooler Returns Sub Pop

6 The OBGMs* The Ends Black Box

20 New Orleans High Society Self-titled 1718

26 System of a Down Genocida Humanoidz American

21 Yukon Blonde* Vindicator Dine Alone

30 Bahamas* Sad Hunk Barchords

22 Mise En Scene* Winnipeg, California Light Organ 23 The Blaze Velluto Collection* We Are Sunshine Dare To Care 24 The Hold Steady Open Door Policy Positive Jams 25 Femur* For the Love of It Self-Released

* indicates Canadian artist. Chart ranking reflects airplay during the week ending 19-Jan2021.

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Health

Staying the Course Coping with Pandemic Fatigue

By Dan DePeuter, Tobacco Control Area Network Coordinator, Thunder Bay District Health Unit

indsight is 20/20: has there ever been a more loaded turn of phrase? Looking back, there is so much we wish we had known from the outset. But, as things often go, there is much we had to learn as we went along. And we’re not just talking about the now one-year-old virus, but also how much we had to adapt. Zoom meetings, homeschooling, grocery shopping online; even in some cases doing a completely different job. I had worked at the Health Unit for 14 years in Tobacco Control; 2020 arrives and suddenly I’m re-deployed full-time to COVID-19 response, which came with a steep learning curve. Maybe you can relate. And do you know what? It has been exhausting. Everything we have been through over the past

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year has steadily piled up and up—like proverbial straws on the camel’s back. We begin to ask ourselves, “How much more of this can I take?” All of this can cause a strain on our mental health and has, no doubt, contributed to some degree of pandemic fatigue for nearly all of us. How do we keep this up when it just seems to go on and on and on? It’s okay to ask yourself that. There have been so many sacrifices and it can take its toll. One thing that may help is to consider how far we’ve come. The end might not yet be in sight, but at least we know the way. For one, there are vaccines—those miracles of modern science—already being deployed to protect those most at risk. Eventually, vaccines will be available more broadly, which is

amazing, but in the meantime, we all have one important role: stay the course. That’s an expression that has been uttered throughout some of history’s most trying times, be it on stormy waters, through political strife, or on the battlefield. Now we’re asking it of you once again. Although we’re tired and sad and missing the people we love, please hang on a while longer. Follow public health recommendations, as cliché as they must sound after

so many months. Keep your distance, wash your hands often, stay home when you can, get tested if you have any symptoms, and please—as sick as we’re all getting of them—keep wearing that flippin’ mask. We’re tired, but together we’re strong. By supporting one another we can get through this, so take care and stay safe. If you’d like to reach out for some extra support, visit tbdhu.com/ mentalhealthsupport.

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Health

The Logistics of a Pandemic

Q&A with Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre’s Anne-Marie Heron Interview by Matt Prokopchuk

he COVID-19 pandemic has changed many facets of our work lives, and that certainly holds true for those at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Anne-Marie Heron is the hospital’s executive director of capital planning and operations, overseeing the running of the hospital site and facilities, capital projects, and the procurement of supplies. During the pandemic, she’s also on the hospital’s COVID incident management team, where she heads the logistics section. We spoke with Heron about how the health sciences centre has adapted to the new normal and its role in handling the first round of vaccinations. The Walleye: What sorts of

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changes have you implemented at the hospital since the start of the pandemic? Anne-Marie Heron: One—just thinking as we’re coming in the front door—there’s certainly a lot of signage to help direct people and provide education around screening and PPE [personal protective equipment], so that’s been one area that the capital group has had to address. Once you come through the door, [there are] all the new screening booths that are set up, the plexiglass that’s everywhere— that’s been another key issue—all of the physical distancing markers, signage, etc. From the maintenance physical plant group, they’ve looked a lot at the HVAC systems, air flow,

isolation areas, and enhanced that so that we can ensure that the health care practitioners have even enhanced spaces in order to perform some of the work required that’s invasive on people, just to ensure we can minimize any potential for spread. TW: Has the hospital been able to maintain its supplies of PPE and other essentials? AMH: In the spring, it was certainly—worldwide it was certainly a tighter supply. The hospital did really well in managing its supply as well, so we were quite prudent on how supplies were being used. We had already had certain contracts in place prior, just from normal procurement, which certainly was an asset. So there were a lot of good things that we were able to build on, and then after that, we were also able to work with some of our PPE suppliers who were able to get additional allocations, so that we could then get additional allocations from them. There were days that I was concerned that we didn’t have—we weren’t flush with supplies, but we actually did quite well. We never really ran down to

the wire on anything, but that was a lot of hard work by a lot of people, staying up on anything that’s available, following up on all leads that might be available. So overall, I would say actually we did quite well on PPE supplies. [In the] current state, things are in a very good state because worldwide, suppliers have been able to ramp up and there is a lot more supply available. So I don’t have really any concerns now around supplies. TW: What adaptations has the hospital made to accept the COVID-19 vaccine? AMH: First of all, when there was all the new swabbing that started, logistics was heavily involved in setting up that space, outfitting it, getting all the supplies in place, getting people into place. Now that the priority is switching to vaccination, we were heavily involved in updating the space to meet the vaccination needs; we’re also looking for additional space so that we can grow the capacity for the hospital to vaccinate. We were heavily involved in working with the [Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care] to receive the [refrigeration] equipment. We’ve also been procuring some additional items, just proactively, to ensure that we have additional refrigeration capacity, and our facilities group has been making sure [everything’s] set up on backup power and monitored. So we’ve been heavily involved in that. TW: How has dealing with the pandemic changed how you think about doing your job? AMH: I think focusing on, say, starting with supply chains, I think the things that we were doing prior to the pandemic to sort of shore up and solidify our supply chain processes certainly was beneficial and that’s just [been] reemphasized through this COVID situation. The whole base and design of the hospital certainly becomes something that you think about when you’re in a pandemic, because [when developing] some of these unique spaces [some were] easier than others. So I think that design going forward will be something interesting to continue to consider, and where we are evolving around HVAC standards and infection control standards.

Health

accines are one of the most important developments in the history of global health and have been saving lives around the world for more than 200 years. No matter how healthy you are, you can still get very sick, or even die, from infectious diseases. When you get vaccinated, you make your body stronger and more resistant to disease. The more people in a community who are vaccinated, the harder it is for the disease to spread. Getting vaccinated protects your health and the health of everyone else around you, too. This includes our most vulnerable people, like very young children and people who are sick or aging. In December 2020, Health Canada authorized the use of two COVID-19 vaccines, marking an exciting turning point in our collective battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) was identified as a site for distribution of the Pfizer vaccine. In collaboration with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and the Province of Ontario, TBRHSC marked a historic milestone by administering Northwestern Ontario’s first doses on December 22, 2020. While most people are encouraged by and excited about the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines, some people may be left wondering whether or not the vaccine is safe, and what it means for our community going forward. To help answer some of your questions, we spoke with Dr. Greg Gamble, Medical Lead for Infection Prevention and Control at TBRHSC.

The Facts about Vaccines

By Caitlund Davidson, Health Promotion and Communications Planner, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Q: Is the vaccine safe? A: Yes. Health Canada only approves a vaccine if its safety and effectiveness is supported by very robust scientific data and evidence. The reason the COVID19 vaccine was approved quickly is not because safety standards have changed, but because Health Canada shortened the administrative and organizational process of vaccine authorization.

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Q: Can you get COVID-19 from the vaccine? A: You absolutely will not get COVID-19 from the vaccine. Unlike many other vaccines, the COVID19 vaccine does not contain the live virus. Instead, it uses genetic instructions in molecules called mRNA to generate a coronavirus protein that initiates the body’s natural production of antibodies and cellular immune response. Therefore, it cannot cause infection in the host. It’s an incredible technology. Q: Do recipients of the vaccine still need to follow public health guidelines, such as wearing a mask, frequent hand washing, and physical distancing? A: Yes, although the vaccine is an important tool to stop or slow the spread of COVID-19, it’s essentially just another piece of the defense. Studies have shown that the vaccine is 95% effective, but there are still some things we don’t know, such as how long it will be effective for and the effect it will have on the asymptomatic carrying of

COVID-19. Until those questions are better understood and until the vast majority of the population is immunized, we’re going to have to keep following basic preventive measures. Q: Why should people get vaccinated for COVID-19, once it is their turn to do so? A: Vaccines are a very important tool in stopping the spread of COVID-19. When a large percentage of the population becomes immune to COVID-19, the virus will slow down or stop entirely. This is called “herd immunity.” The minute I heard the vaccines were licensed, I knew that we are looking at a much better year in 2021. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, how it works, and how it’s being rolled out, please visit tbdhu.com/covidvaccines and covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-vaccines-ontario#about-covid-19-vaccines. To learn more about eligibility criteria and other information, please visit: covid-19.ontario.ca/ covid-19-vaccines-ontario.

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Green as early as we could once seed was harvested and dried in the fall,” O’Connor continues. “We are packaging as much as we can in advance of sales. Most of our packets will be sold online and delivered by Canada Post, so we are stocking up on shipping materials.” Online sales start this month and depending on lockdown conditions, Roots to Harvest and EcoSuperior will have seeds in stock shortly after. You can find out more about Superior Seed Producers at superiorseedproducers.wordpress. com, superior-seed-producers. square.site, and facebook.com/ superiorseedproducers.

Sprouting Up

Superior Seed Producers Readies for Coming Growing Season By Wendy Wright

he time of year has come when gardeners are perusing seed catalogues and dreaming of the season ahead. For those who are in the planning stages of the 2021 growing season, it is perfect timing for Superior Seed Producers to start sales of their locally and sustainably grown, pesticide-free, non-GMO seed. Superior Seed Producers is a completely volunteer-based organization, operating with help from Roots to Harvest and EcoSuperior. It all started with a group of like-minded local gardeners who had a keen interest in seed-saving and sharing their knowledge with others. Since partnering with Roots to Harvest in 2014, Superior Seed Producers have made many community connections, and their message of sowing locally produced seed has grown. Educational outreach is very much a part of the organization, and you will be able to find members out at local seed swaps and community events, depending on COVID-19 restrictions. Why buy locally grown seed?

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When plants are grown in a specific climate and seeds are saved from those plants year after year, the plants take on the strengths of their parent plant and become acclimatized to the local region. With this comes extra disease resistance, hardier plants, and bigger yields. Gardeners have been saving and sharing their best seeds from their best plants for hundreds of years in order to spread the base of the strongest plants. For gardeners and for those in garden-related sales, the 2020 growing season was an interesting and busy one. Many new gardeners sprang up and many people were growing more than usual. Seeds and plants sold out all over, including at Superior Seed Producers. “In 2020, of course, we were unprepared for COVID-19,” says Wendy O’Connor, one of the six in the core group of growers. “This year, we know that— happily—sales are expected to be brisk. Having this in mind early in 2020 meant that most of us grew and harvested more seed.” “We began germination testing

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Green

So, You Want to Ride Your Bike in the Winter? Tips and Tricks to Make Urban Commuting Comfortable and Safe

By Julia Prinselaar, EcoSuperior Environmental Programs

yclists who brave Thunder Bay winters to get around on a daily basis are few and far between, and they have our respect. We see you: clad in gauntlet mitts, a neck warmer pulled up past your nose, bike lights blinking before dawn, and a bright reflective vest. Because let’s face it, in the depths of winter, a lot of commuting is done on cold, dark days. But winter cycling can also be a daily practice that’s good for your head, your heart, your wallet, and our shared environment. We spoke with Ian Cameron, the owner and operator of Community Spokes, which offers a variety of do-ityourself bike repair services, sales, and rentals from its storefront on Simpson Street. Community Spokes has seen a 700% increase in demand for bikes and bicycle services this year, which Cameron attributes to more people getting outdoors during the pandemic. “I was not ready for that at all,” he admits, just before pausing our interview to help a customer inquiring about a fat bike. Cameron doesn’t own a vehicle and he’s been cycling his entire adult life. He commutes every day by bicycle—when it’s 30 degrees above, and even when it’s 30 degrees below. For the curious cyclist who is interested in ditching the car and getting around by bicycle in the winter, he offers the following advice and breaks down equipment into two categories: the bike itself and related equipment, and appropriate clothing. What to ride When it comes to

Patrick O'Reilly works on a bike in Thunder Bay in preparation for winter cycling urban commuting in the winter, use studded tires. “There are going to be icy patches when you least expect it,” he says—especially when you need to stop quickly or avoid a vehicle. “Studded tires are a must.” A lot of other things are optional but can make your trip more comfortable. If you don’t want to get covered in mud and snow, fenders are a good idea. With salt and sand on winter roads, expect more maintenance for your bike. “There are a lot of rusty chains, rusty bolts, ice, and snow in your drive system,” he adds. Luckily there are some things you can do to reduce the hassle, like using a bike with an internal gear hub; it’s more costly, but it reduces a lot of time cleaning and servicing your bike’s parts. But for people just starting out with winter commuting, he recommends going low-budget and giving it a try before fully committing to the expense. What to wear Be prepared with a full range of all-weather clothing depending on the conditions. Cameron wears a ski helmet with ski goggles strapped on. “In case a blizzard comes, I can just pull them down,” he says. “On milder days I might wear a lighter rain pant and a light winter jacket. On a really cold day, on those negative 30 or

40 days, I am bundled up. Lots of layers, big mitts, I have one of those ski masks on with the ski helmet and goggles. There’s no exposed skin because a big thing about biking is you want to be comfortable as you commute.” However, you’re also generating a lot of heat. The key is to dress in (or pack) layers with you to help moderate your body temperature. Cameron says there are all kinds of tips and tricks that winter cyclists have developed to make their riding experience more comfortable. Personally, he wears rubber boots with thick socks a lot of the time. “They’re light and prevent water from getting in, so they avoid frozen toes. I don’t see many winter cyclists doing that but it’s great. They’re so light they don’t hinder your journey as you pedal.” Be prepared Be well-lit, wear visible clothing, pay attention to other vehicles, and watch for drivers who may not always be keen or aware enough to share the road. Additionally, plan your route and take as many side streets as possible, advises Cameron. “It’s going to take a lot longer. Your commute time might even double as a winter cyclist, so ensure you’re planning that out.” You’ll also want to keep some basic tools in case your chain breaks or a brake cable seizes.

Use your judgment This is all to say that if you’re new to winter commuting, not every day may be a good day to ride your bike. “If you want to develop that experience on those really bad days, on your day off when it’s a crappy day for biking, go bike,” Cameron says. “But don’t do it on your commute, because there are a lot more variables that can put you at risk. Know your limits and know what your bike is capable of.” Cycling feels good Fewer cars on the road is not only better for the urban environment, it can be a major win for mental health. “It’s a great workout. I don’t get depressed in the winter—I’m usually just exhausted,” Cameron says. “Every day is an adventure. You’ve got to prep your clothing, prep your bike. There’s just so much adventure and exercise that comes with it, too.” For more information about Thunder Bay cycling and road safety, visit safecyclingthunderbay.com.

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TheWall

The Cold, Hard Truth Despite Ontario’s Lockdown Rules, COVID Doesn’t Care What I Have On My Feet Story and Photo by Darren McChristie

Mount Baldy co-owner, Dan Kardas and mountain operations manager, Jean-Paul Marion, enjoying a pre-COVID golden hour run in February 2020

n October 31, 2020, Mount Baldy Ski Area broke a record that made Thunder Bay the envy of skiers in the U.S. and Canada when it became the first and only ski area east of the Rockies to be open in North America. They accomplished this feat of weather-bending magic through hard work and intuition, taking advantage of a short window of ideal weather conditions to make snow. They went for it when we needed it, and it paid off. So we should be celebrating their accomplishments while sliding our anxieties away on their perfectly groomed, corduroy ski runs. But, we aren’t—at least not on skis and snowboards. Instead, on December 26, 2020, Ontario became the only jurisdiction in North America to shutter its ski areas, pulling the rug out from under the industry during their busiest time of year. Nearly a third of their business was lost as they were forced to close completely during the winter break. In one month, the industry in Ontario is reporting a loss of $84 million—a serious kick in the teeth. There was no consultation. No explanation. According to premier Doug Ford, ski hills “are the last thing on my mind.” When pressed on the

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issue, he explained his concern that skiers would travel from region to region to ski and “go stay in a hotel, have some meals and so on, so forth. We need to avoid travelling.” The ski industry was hit hard in the first wave of the pandemic. Ski areas in Canada and the U.S. were closed after significant outbreaks in several Colorado ski towns in March 2020. Locally, skiers missed out on what was shaping up to be an exceptionally stellar spring season and ski hill owners missed out on the much needed revenue from the March Break rush. Collectively, we were all terrified and, despite the disappointment of the season ending early, for the most part we understood. After all, we are all in this together. When Mount Baldy, and later Loch Lomond, opened this season using proper planning and safety protocols, they demonstrated what health experts already know— that skiing is a low-risk activity in terms of the transmission of the virus. Currently, resorts are open elsewhere in North America, with policies in place to ensure social distancing in lift lines and keep chalets closed. The industry learned skiing wasn’t the problem, it was après skiing—when skiers swap war

stories from the slopes over a pint and some chicken wings—or, in the case of outbreaks at Big White, in Kelowna, B.C., young staff partying in crowded accommodations. This is not a problem in Thunder Bay, where we have family ski areas, not sprawling resorts. COVID doesn’t care what I have on my feet. It doesn’t discriminate between cross-country and alpine skis. In January, the local health unit okayed the use of alpine ski areas for cross-country skiing, as well as tobogganing and snowshoeing. However, in an astonishing move, the ski areas were told alpine skis and snowboards were not permitted—meaning you could slide down a ski run uncontrollably on a crazy carpet, but not on your skis or snowboard. It is like telling a golfer they can enjoy the golf course for soccer and biking, but banning golf clubs. The reality that I am permitted to slide down a ski run provided my ass is on a sled and there aren’t alpine skis on my feet (although cross-country skis are somehow okay) has highlighted the need for regional decision-making. After the first wave, the government created a colour-coded system to help clarify the restrictions being applied

regionally. When it was released, ski areas were identified as being open under the grey lockdown stage. But the Ford government cast aside this logical colour-coded system during the province-wide lockdown. Thunder Bay is unique in many ways. Not only is Thunder Bay one of the most remote cities in all of Canada, but we are fortunate to have two ski areas to enjoy. Mount Baldy and Loch Lomond should not have been judged along with the southern behemoths like Blue Mountain in Collingwood, or Mount St. Louis Moonstone. Skiing is a way of life. It's great for mental health and can be enjoyed throughout a lifetime. With restrictions in place, downhill skiing is just as safe as tobogganing, skating, and cross-country skiing— all activities permitted in the current lockdown. While skiers are disappointed, we will adapt like everyone else and enjoy the outdoors in other ways. But ski hill owners might not survive the crisis. It's already a tenuous business model that has led to a huge downsizing of the local industry since the 90s. We need logical decision-making to support local ski hills so that we have them to enjoy after the pandemic ends.

Stay Safe. Embrace the North and enjoy everything our home has to offer.

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February Horoscopes Aries

(March 21–April 19) You are finally ready to make peace with your walls so you can move past them. It takes a lot of courage to face uncertainty head on, but you are the epitome of courage, Ram. They say it only takes 21 days to form a new habit, and as the first sign of the zodiac, you are leading the way and setting a good example for others. Romantically, you may be looking for love in all the wrong places. Take a step back and recalibrate.

Taurus

(April 20–May 20) This month you are able to think big and focus on how to invite new perspectives. You are hitting all the right buttons in the creativity department. Bulls have been able to pivot exceedingly well, and your hard work is paying off. You are gaining traction with your followers and you are finally feeling on-brand. Gather a close inner circle of like-minded pals and exchange ideas. There is strength in numbers!

Gemini

(May 21–June 20) Natural communicators with a never-ending thirst for knowledge, Geminis are eternal students. Although your personable nature yearns for the day Zoom is no longer necessary, stick with it. Geminis are highly expressive when they let their mercurial nature soar. Single twins may have had a rocky time in love of late, but matters seem to smooth out conveniently around Valentine’s Day. Conjoined twins enjoy a romantic evening on the 14th looking at the stars.

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By Sunny Disposish

Cancer

( June 21–July 22) Emotional and sensitive, Cancerians are ruled by their feelings. Like their guiding celestial body, the moon, they run through the whole gamut of emotions that come with the changing tides. Plan to spend some time star-gazing this month, Crab. In fact, spending time in nature will help rejuvenate your spirit and bolster your strength this month. Seems like everyone and their dog are snowshoeing lately—why not give it a try? Making romance work is work. Chill out and let things develop on their own.

Leo

( July 23–August 22) The full moon is in Leo on the 27th, and the Snow Moon finds you in your fire cycle. Proud Lions enjoy spending time with family—why not make this Family Day a unique one to remember? A bonfire could be an extra special way to spend time as a unit and have some good conversation. Embrace new emotional experiences that welcome you to adjust your attitude and look at your past in a new light.

Virgo

(August 23–September 22) Every day is feeling like Groundhog Day right now, isn’t it Virgo? It’s easy for you to stay grounded being an earth sign, but you may notice that folks in your household may be having a hard time doing so. Extend a helping hand whilst letting others help themselves. Feeling in a rut? Get out and about with your Valentine and perhaps pop in at Nomad on Bay for a coffee and crepe date. Starting new traditions are essential. Romance is highlighted this month. Virgos take love seriously as a rule, but a touch of whimsy never hurt anyone!

Libra

(September 23–October 22) Ruled by Venus and keenly aware of relationships, Libras are always able to see things from another person’s point of view. Relationships blossom this month and plans are in the air to celebrate the day of love this month in a new and unique way. A take-out dinner from a local high-end eatery sounds rather cosy indeed. Having meaningful, supportive relationships make life a little more bearable these days.

Scorpio

(October 23–November 21) Communication is key this month, Scorpio, and you feel like you are stepping into your power. It’s time to stop pretending things are okay when they are not. Choose your words kindly but wisely. The dark moon midmonth will help clear the air. Secrets are revealed. Keep going forward and know that you are on the right path. At home, keep the home fires burning. A restful Family Day is just what the doctor ordered. Pop into the new coffee shop at the Marina and take a moment to enjoy the view.

Sagittarius

(November 22–December 21) Sagittarians are free spirits with a friendly, independent style. And speaking of spirits, this may be a good time to re-evaluate such. Keep an eye on your self-indulgent side and save the celebrations for special occasions. Your love of travel is taking a bit of a hard hit. Your planet of Jupiter stimulates a yearning for experience and travel to different places. Making a game plan and opening a special savings account dedicated to travel will make homebound Saggies feel a bit better in the interim. Matters of the heart see a new and lasting friendship on the horizon.

Capricorn

(December 22–January 19) Hardworking, diligent, and determined, Capricorns need to have a purpose, for without a precise goal they are lost. However, some Goats are feeling like all they do these days is work, work, and more work. Take the “what else is there to do?” mindset and spend some time for self-care. If the pocketbook allows, treat yourself to some online time and order in some local goodies. They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder, so you may enjoy a Valentine’s Day like none other! The full moon later in the month shines bright upon you.

Aquarius

( January 20–February 18) The new moon in Aquarius on the 11th gives you a blast of much-needed energy. Is it possible to be any busier? This month finds you connecting with folks in a way you never dreamed possible. Your entrepreneurial spirit is gaining momentum and with it, you’re gaining a new following. Spending time in nature on the trails is a good place to compose your thoughts. Meanwhile, loved ones are planning something special for all the birthday goats this month. This will indeed be a birthday like no other. Sit back and enjoy the well-wishes—you deserve it!

Pisces

(February 19–March 20) Pisces are the visionaries who cannot help but uplift those around them with their humour, charm, and sympathy. Although some traditions may not be able to be upheld this Family Day, know that there is some comfort in making new ones. For the Fish celebrating their birthday this month, stay out of the kitchen and let other family members show you their culinary skills. A special gift awaits! Gratitude abounds and your heart is full.

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CRIMSON, digital painting, boy Roland

Crimson By Jonathan Focht days can crawl all over you and inhibit like a boa constrictor with no hopes of escape until you step into the front room look out the open window and see a crimson cardinal exploring the Earth among the first golden flowers of spring among the ancient emerald vines and you realize a vibrant half-rainbow of afternoon and suddenly the day opens itself to you.

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A ski jumper takes flight in 1978 at what would become known as Big Thunder

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