February 2024 by The Walleye Magazine

FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 15 No. 2 MUSIC FEBRUARY FOOD 2024 CULTURE thewalleye.ca

Game On! TBay's Iconic Sporting Events

Leverage for Mountains

The New Beaux Daddy’s The Return of Flamenco Caravan

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Contents 7 Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Interim Editor Matt Prokopchuk Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Bonnie Schiedel Editorial Assistants Emily Turner, Sidney Ulakovic Marketing & Sales Manager Alaina Linklater alaina@thewalleye.ca Photographers Jack Barten Anna Buske Ryan Hill Chad Kirvan Dave Koski Shannon Lepere Darren McChristie Sarah McPherson Lois Nuttall Laura Paxton Emily Turner Sidney Ulakovic Art Directors Steve Coghill, R.G.D. Dave Koski, R.G.D. production@thewalleye.ca Ad Designer Dave Koski The Walleye is a free monthly publication distributed on racks throughout Thunder Bay and region. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission is strictly forbidden. Views expressed herein are those of the author exclusively. Copyright © 2024 by Superior Outdoors Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. Superior Outdoors Inc. 242 - 1100 Memorial Avenue Thunder Bay, ON P7B 4A3 Telephone (807) 344-3366 Fax (807) 623-5122 E-mail: info@thewalleye.ca

TheWalleye.ca Where can I find The Walleye? thewalleye.ca/wherecan-i-find-the-walleye/ Ad Deadline for our March Issue February 14th

21 61

The New Beaux Daddy’s

FEATURES 9 Let the Games Begin 10 Our Sporting Legacy 13 The Importance of Volunteers 14 Today’s Athletes, Tomorrow’s Olympians 16 By the Numbers

FOOD 18 THE GRINNING BELLY 19 DRINK OF THE MONTH 21 The New Beaux Daddy’s 23 SUPERIOR SIP 24 Sweet and Savoury 27 OFF THE MENU 29 Celebrating 10 Years

Dance for Every Body

FILM&THEATRE 30 THE SECOND MOST PLEASURABLE THING WE DO IN THE DARK. A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES 32 Two Indians 33 A Sea Change for Superior 34 Little Shop of Horrors 37 CONFESSIONS OF A DRAG DEALER

A Sea Change for Superior

78 64 72

Hot Girl Music to Cry To

TheTOPFive

THE ARTS 38 The Beating Heart of the Wolf 40 A THOUSAND WORDS 42 Down by the Water 43 FROM THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION 44 Aanikoobijiganag Beading Symposium

Back on Course

OUTDOOR 46 Skijoring on One Island Lake

CITYSCENE 48 EYE TO EYE: With Steve Collins 53 Winter Vitality 54 WALL SPACE 56 Building an Underground Family 58 Family Ties 59 GO LOCAL THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET 61 Dance for Every Body 62 STUFF WE LIKE 64 A Local Winter Tradition MUSIC 67 The Return of Flamenco Caravan 68 Leverage for Mountains 70 BURNING TO THE SKY 72 Hot Girl Music to Cry To 73 TBSO PROFILE 74 Silver Sounds 77 Gas in the Tank 78

ARCHITECTURE 80 The Canada Games Complex TATTOOED YOU 83 Seven Chakras GREEN 84 Snow Sports with a Conscience HEALTH 86 Drinking Less is Better For Your Health THE WALL 88 Radioactive Waste Transportation Plans Could Spell Trouble 90 92 93 94 96

OFF THE WALL REVIEWS

Tbaytel February EVENTS GUIDE LU RADIO'S MONTHLY TOP 30

MUSIC GUIDE

HOROSCOPES THE BEAT THE EYE

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Courtesy of the County of Renfrew

From Our Instagram Feed

Podium Finishes

ome of my favourite childhood memories are of the years I spent alpine skiing. I learned (and spent most of my time skiing) at the site formerly known as Big Thunder. While it was best known as a ski jumping and cross-country facility that hosted a number of international competitions, it also boasted a nice selection of more recreationally inclined downhill runs. In 1995, imagine my 11-yearold self’s surprise when I learned the world’s best ski jumpers and cross-country skiers would be competing in that year’s FIS Nordic World Ski Championships at the very same complex where I spent so many winter weekends. While, sadly, Big Thunder would close a year later, the 1995 Nordics still served as one of many examples of the Thunder Bay area’s ability to host world-class sporting events, and our February issue’s cover story is dedicated to celebrating that legacy, which continues to this day. To that end, we’ve enlisted the help of Diane Imrie of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame to remind us of 10 of those events, Kelsey Raynard speaks with organizers of the upcoming Ontario Winter Games, Emily Turner has the story of a dedicated volunteer, highlighting just how important those efforts are to staging these championships, and Bonnie Schiedel uncovers a trove of interesting facts and figures around our sport hosting legacy and future.

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Keeping with the theme of our cover story, music columnist Gord Ellis highlights several songs that have gained further fame through their association with the sports world, Jennifer Bonazzo studies the history of the Canada Games Complex—arguably the most prescient reminder of our sports event hosting legacy—and we go Eye to Eye with champion ski jumper Steve Collins. Elsewhere in our February issue, Susan Pretty reviews a new restaurant dedicated to providing gluten-free options, Sidney Ulakovic speaks with rising local musical star PINK IVY, and Justin Allec has the story of the Current River winter carnival and its longstanding success. And finally, to wrap things up, this will be my last issue filling in as interim editor of The Walleye, as our editor Adrian Lysenko is back to expertly lead the team again going forward. I want to express my sincere thanks to, and appreciation for, the incredibly awesome team that works so diligently on this publication, including our talented editorial assistants, writers, editors, photographers, sales staff, graphic designers, and all other contributors. And a sincere thank you to you, Thunder Bay, for continuing to trust us to tell your great stories. Game on! -Matt Prokopchuk

Featured Contributor Sarah Siska

Sarah Siska was born and raised here in Thunder Bay. Although she left to live on the West Coast for a few years, she couldn’t stay away from the magic of Lake Superior. As the coordinator of the Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy (TBAFS), her goal is to get those around her just as interested in food as she is. Read her column on community engagement in food policy on page 29.

On the Cover

Ski jumping at a Molson World Cup event in Thunder Bay Photo by James Mirabelli

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You belong here 6

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TheTopFive

SGFMS Presents: 1 Leverage for Mountains February 10

In Comedy 2 Snowed Tour

February 14

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

Mike Taylor

What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than some laughs with someone you love? The Snowed In Comedy Tour, a true Canadian success story, returns to Thunder Bay on February 14. Held at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, this year’s 15th anniversary tour will feature four critically acclaimed comedians making their way across Canada: Just for Laughs winner Dan Quinn, Great Canadian Laugh Off winner Paul Myrehaug, six-time Canadian comedian of the year nominee Pete Zedlacher, and long-time guest of CBC’s The Debaters Erica Sigurdson. As Canada’s biggest comedy tour, this is one show worth shovelling the driveway for. The show starts at 7:30 pm and tickets are $62 each (prices subject to change through Ticketmaster). snowedincomedytour.com

Voyageur Winter 4 Carnival

The Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society has always had a knack for scouting the most interesting, under-the-radar, and up-and-coming folk musicians, and their latest concert is no exception. On February 10 at McGillivray’s Landing (Fort William Historical Park), Canadian countryindie-folk trio Leverage for Mountains will bring their rich acoustic sound to Thunder Bay. Comprising Gatineau-based musicians Nick Loyer, Jay Trépanier, and Jay Flynn, Leverage for Mountains is not new to the music scene, but after facing standard COVID-related challenges, they are back on the road touring. Their music is subtle, lyrical, and poignant, promising a moving show sure to warm your soul this February. The show starts at 8 pm, and tickets are $40 each. sleepinggiant.ca

Winter 3 Ontario Games

February 16–26 Various Locations

Courtesy County of Renfrew

Phil Walker

McGillivray’s Landing at Fort William Historical Park

Attend the largest local multi-sport event in decades at this year’s Ontario Winter Games! From February 16 to 26, Ontario’s top young athletes will compete in 13 different sports at a variety of different community venues. From cross-country skiing and ringette to archery and hockey, there will be no shortage of excitement and competition during the games. Opening ceremonies for athletes competing in week-one events will take place on February 16 at Fort William Historical Park, with another ceremony for athletes competing in the games’ second week taking place on February 23. Both ceremonies start at 6 pm. Every event is open to the public and completely free of charge. The Ontario Winter Games will provide us with an excellent opportunity to welcome these young athletes with open arms, and support them in this unique competitive tournament tbaygames2024.ca

TBSO Masterworks: In 5 the Key of Beethoven

February 17 & 18

February 23

Fort William Historical Park

Jamie Ruggles Westfort Prodcutions

Celebrate the world of winter sports and games with a magical blend of traditional carnival fun at Fort William Historical Park’s Voyageur Winter Carnival. On February 17 and 18 from 11 am to 5 pm, carnivalgoers can enjoy a wide range of activities and entertainment to celebrate Family Day weekend. Embrace the outdoors with sliding, skating, and snowshoeing (they even have a Zorb ball snow track!); meet local artisans showcasing their traditional skills in toboggan making, wood carving, snowshoe weaving, sash weaving, and more; and enjoy live musical performances by local musicians and join historical interpreters in voyageur songs and dances. Tickets are available in advance online or in-person at the event (adults: $12, students, seniors, and youth: $10, children five and under: free). fwhp.ca

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Celebrate one of the original greats (Beethoven) with one of the upcoming greats (Kevin Chen) at Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s Masterworks: In the Key of Beethoven. Held on February 23 at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, the concert will feature Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra joined by celebrated Canadian pianist Kevin Chen; at only 17 years old (!), this musical prodigy has a number of accolades to his name, including being the youngest ever winner of the International Franz Liszt Piano Competition in 2021. Chen will perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, a delightful piece that will pay tribute to the German composer’s timeless symphonies. The show starts at 7:30 pm and tickets are $61 each, available through the TBSO website (prices subject to change through Ticketmaster). tbso.ca/concert/in-the-key-of-beethoven

The Walleye Walleye The

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CoverStory

Game On!

TBay's Iconic Sporting Events

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Hosting sports events has quite the ripple effect for a city like Thunder Bay. It gives a financial boost to a wide range of industries, showcases the city, and builds community. It often prompts the creation or upgrade of venues that the population can use for years to come (in turn forging hometown heroes that compete on the national and international stage too). All kinds of indelible memories are made, whether it’s bonding with fellow volunteers, the pageantry of ceremonies, or the excitement of cheering on participants. Inevitably, there are also—shall we say—lively debates about resources and spending. In this issue of The Walleye, we take a closer look at TBay as a sports host, past, present, and future. Let the games begin! - Bonnie Schiedel

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1939 Dominion Skiing Championships February 24–26, 1939

he 1939 Dominion Skiing Championships were hosted by the Fort William Ski Club at their facility at Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay). In preparation for the big event—which would welcome skiers from Canada and the United States as well as the Norwegian champion Reidar Andersen—a new 165-foot (50-metre) jump was built and new runs created, including a slalom course and a 4,500-foot championship downhill run. A new clubhouse was erected and a rope tow was installed, which at the time was thought to be the only electrically powered rope tow in the country, with others being run by gas or diesel engines. The event truly put Fort William on the map, with news stories covered in such papers as the New York Times and the Montreal Gazette. The Toronto Star Weekly noted that Fort William was said to be the future St. Moritz of Canada, with hills that thrill. The event also saw skiing grow in popularity locally, with the FWSC having close to 1,000 members on its roster for the 1939 season. By the end of the decade, the mountain was again alive with activity featuring a new clubhouse, jump, runs, and an 1,800-foot tow—one of the longest in Canada at the time—all of which were in place when the FWSC hosted the cross-country and jumping portions of the 1949 Canadian Ski Championships.

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Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

1960 Macdonald Brier Tankard March 7–11, 1960

n 1960, Fort William and Port Arthur co-hosted the Macdonald Brier Tankard—the Canadian men's curling championships—which saw the Fort William Gardens welcome over 26,000 spectators throughout the week. The championship was won by Saskatchewan’s Richardson rink, which was skipped by Ernie Richardson and also included his brother Garnet and cousins Arnold and Wes. The festivities started off with a parade that began at the event headquarters at the Royal Edward Hotel and finished up at the Gardens. One of the most impressive floats was entered by the host club, which carried 11 individuals symbolizing the 11 finalists and an item which would become a legacy of this national event—a curling rock reported to weigh 5,000 pounds. The rock was moved off the float and placed in front of the Fort William Gardens for the duration of the championships, and was then moved to the Totem Pole Tourist Court on Highway 61, eventually making its way back to the front of the Gardens, where it sits today.

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Compiled by Diane Imrie, Executive Director, Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Our Sporting Legacy

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

CoverStory

Volunteer hosts for the 1981 Canada Summer Games

1981 Canada Summer Games August 9–22, 1981

he Canada Summer Games welcomed 3,600 athletes from all across Canada competing in 17 different sports, with an estimated 5,000 volunteers helping out. The opening ceremonies were held at the Fort William Stadium, with close to 13,000 spectators watching the parade of athletes and the awakening of Nanabijou with a 1,000voice choir of school children and 400 colourful dancers. Local athletes Larry Ukrainec and Susan Kainulainen lit the opening torch and the mascot was Choklit Moose. The centrepiece of the event was the Canada Games Complex, which was built at a cost of $7.1 million and included a pool, diving complex, and racquetball courts. At the time, the 77-metre pool was the largest of its kind in North America, taking five days to fill with 755,000 gallons of water. The community spirit and involvement in the Games was truly inspiring. Volunteers sewed costumes, schools hosted walkathons, and local groups held raffles—all in support of the Games.

Tommy Ingebrigtsen competing at the 1995 Nordic World Ski Championships

1995 Nordic World Ski Championships

he 1995 Nordic World Ski Championships were hosted at Big Thunder, and featured the world’s top athletes competing in

ski jumping, cross-country skiing, and Nordic combined events. The ‘95 games were the first time Canada ever hosted the Nordics, and, at the time, the event was only the one to be held outside of Europe (Japan would subsequently host the games in 2007). Six hundred athletes competed at the Nordics, and an estimated 13,000 people attended the opening ceremonies, which featured Steve Collins, the renowned ski jumper from Fort William First Nation, and summer and winter Canadian Olympian Pierre Harvey carrying the torch. Over 2,400 volunteers helped out. The games are still remembered for temperatures eventually soaring to a record 15°C, forcing organizers to truck in wood chips from the local mill and spray the cross-country course with chemicals to slow down the melt. The public also participated in the Great Nordic Mascot Hunt, which led to the beaver coming out ahead of the porcupine and river otter; Chimik is still featured as part of the mascot gallery at the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame.

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Action from the finals of the 1996 Scott Tournament of Hearts

1996 Scott Tournament of Hearts

March 9–19, 1995

Ski jumping action at what would become known as Big Thunder in 1978

February 17–25, 1996

n 1996, Thunder Bay hosted the Scott Tournament of Hearts at Fort William Gardens. In addition to the memories of great curling, it was also the weather that was memorable, as a number of storms left the city buried in snow drifts. But

that didn’t stop the estimated 50,000 curling fans who took in the action, or the 1,200 people who travelled to Thunder Bay, including players, coaches, officials, and spectators. The Heart Stop Lounge, located in the Fort William Curling Club, was abuzz with activity during the week, including a sold-out dinner, dance, and concert. The championships featured skips like Colleen Jones, Marilyn Bodogh, Sherry Scheirich (now Middaugh), Connie Laliberte, and Cheryl Kullman (now Bernard). The finals came down to Alberta versus Ontario, with Bodogh and her team of Kim Gellard, Corie Beveridge, Jane HooperPerroud, and Lisa Savage winning in their home province with a 7-4 victory. In 2022, the Scotties Tournament of Hearts returned to the Lakehead— this time in a scaled-down version due to COVID19—but we will get to do it all over again as hosts of next year’s Scotties, being held from February 14 to 23, 2025 at Fort William Gardens.

James Mirabelli

John Gibson

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

CoverStory

Fort William First Nation champion ski jumper Steve Collins

Ski Jumping at Big Thunder

Various Events, 1975–1995 The early history of ski jumping in Thunder Bay goes back many years to jumps located at the Shuniah Mines, Strathcona Heights, Mount Baldy, and Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay). Another site developed during the 1960s, when the Hansen family opened Little Norway Ski Resort on Mount McQuaig, which led to the eventual development of Big Thunder National Ski Training Centre, ushering in a new era of Nordic skiing in the area. Officially opened on February 2, 1975, it held its first World Cup event in January of 1980. Throughout the 1980s and into the 90s, the facility was an integral part of the national and World Cup circuit. During that time, our city was full of athletes, coaches, fans, and media from around the world to take in the action, and played host to the world at the 1995 World Nordic Ski Championships.

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Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Jim Loppacher

CoverStory

The Thunder Bay Twins winning the 1975 Allan Cup

January 29–February 4, 1979

h e 1 9 7 9 C a n a d i a n F i g u re S k a t i n g Championships were held at the Fort William Gardens, where a young Brian Orser claimed the junior title in record-setting fashion. After breaking his right ankle three times in just over a year, not only did the 17-year old win the title, he did so by performing what was believed at the time to be the first ever triple axel landed in a

junior competition. Other emerging stars from that competition included 15-year-old Barbara Underhill and 18-year-old Paul Martini, who won the first of what would be five consecutive senior national pair titles. Kelly Johnson, who got her start in skating growing up in Thunder Bay, was the 1979 junior dance champion along with her partner Kris Barber. In the novice women’s event, it was a young 11-year-old by the name of Tracey Wainman who, guided by legendary coach Ellen Burka, skated to the top of the podium. The competition was also noted as being a first in terms of technology, with a central music system being used to play music via a telephone system from a sound room at the Fort William Gardens to both practice venues—the Port Arthur and Current River arenas. In 1988, Skate Canada International also welcomed some of the finest skaters in the world to the Fort William Gardens, where Kurt Browning claimed his first of what would be many senior international skating titles.

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John Sims

1979 Canadian Figure Skating Championships

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

Brian Orser

Rory Cava skating with Allan Cup after the Twins' 1988 win

Hockey

Various Events

iven Thunder Bay’s rich hockey heritage, it is of little surprise that our grand old barn, the Fort William Gardens, has hosted

many hockey tournaments over the years. A number of competitions have included our local teams vying for national championships, including the Thunder Bay Twins taking to their hometown ice to challenge for the Allan Cup, doing so successfully in 1975, 1984, 1988, and 1989, with their other championship title being won in 1985 in Corner Brook, Nfld. Our local hockey organizations have also hosted national events, including the 1988 Air Canada Cup, which saw the Thunder Bay Bearcats emerge as bronze medalists and, more recently, the 2019 Telus Cup for the national U-18 club team championships. Lakehead University also hosted the top teams in men’s hockey at the 2009 and 2010 Cavendish Cup.

2020 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games

February 25–29, 2020

hunder Bay’s history of involvement in the Special Olympics can be traced back to 1976, when a local chapter was developed and a floor hockey team established to compete in a provincial tournament. From that point on, our community has remained involved, hosting the 1983 Special Olympics Ontario provincial floor hockey tournament, which included members of the Thunder Bay Twins serving as honourary coaches

of the visiting teams, and mayor Walter Assef providing a tour of the city. Next up was the hosting of the 2011 Ontario Special Olympics Winter Games, which were followed by the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in 2020. The five-day event saw 900 athletes compete in alpine and cross-country skiing, five-pin bowling, snowshoeing, curling, figure skating, floor hockey, and speed skating, with 500 volunteers helping to make it a successful event. This marked the last major event held in the city prior to the impact of COVID-19, which shut down much of the world a couple of weeks after the last athlete left Thunder Bay.

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

CoverStory

2010 IBAF World Junior Baseball Championships July 23–August 1, 2010

he history of baseball in Thunder Bay goes back over a century, with our local baseball teams representing us with distinction at provincial and national events. Over the years, Thunder Bay has hosted a number of national baseball events, and in 2010 they welcomed the world at the IBAF World Junior Baseball Championships. Held at the Port Arthur Stadium and Central Ball Park in Thunder Bay, 12 national teams participated in the event with Chinese Taipei emerging victorious

Emily Turner

Courtesy of Rick Lang

by defeating Australia 8-4 in the final game. The success of the event was in large part due to the 400 to 500 volunteers who helped out in a variety of capacities. This accomplishment led to the hosting of other high-level tournaments, including the 2017 U-18 Baseball World Cup. This summer, our local diamonds will welcome the world’s top female players as hosts of the finals of the 2024 Women's Baseball World Cup, after hosting the Group A qualifying tournament last summer.

Rick Lang (bottom right) with Team Dubinsky coach Rob Dubinsky and members Claire Dubinsky and Lily Ariganello

Rick Lang

The Importance of Volunteers From the Perspective of a World Champion By Emily Turner

“I

f we didn’t have volunteers, sporting events wouldn’t happen,” says Rick Lang, who is a two-time curling world champion, three-time Brier champion, and a proud lifetime resident of Thunder Bay. As someone who has been present at sporting events in various capacities for most of his life, Lang shares some valuable

insights about the importance of volunteerism when it comes to events such as the Ontario Winter Games. From ticket sales to staffing an arena, volunteers make it all happen. “As a participant, you see the volunteers all the time. They let you in the door, they check your accreditation, serve you coffee, and

just make sure you know where you’re going,” Lang says. “There’s so many roles that volunteers play, and as an athlete you see them every day.” This is true for events as large-scale as the Olympics, and down to local competitions as well. While the game is always fun to watch, the small things that go into making an

event truly great is dependent on the volunteers. “Not only are the volunteers important, they are vital,” Lang says. He has travelled extensively to curl and the one thing that has been clear to him is that the larger the city gets, the harder it is to get people to volunteer. “My experience in Thunder Bay has been nothing but fantastic, in terms of recruiting volunteers. We have a wonderful community that way.” Volunteering at the Ontario Winter Games has an added bonus as well, since the athletes are quite young. “Being able to support the youth is really important,” he says. “These are kids who are aspiring to be the best in their sport, and they’re at that age where they’re figuring that out and if they’re going to go right to the top.” The chance to see and support potential future Olympians is certainly special, and the youth are especially grateful to have all the help. Volunteering is one of those feel-good activities that is extremely re w a rd i n g , p l u s i t p ro v i d e s opportunities to meet tons of people you otherwise wouldn’t be able to meet. And, as Lang emphasises, “it’s just a lot of fun.” Volunteer recruitment for the 2025 Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Thunder Bay begins in February. See curling.ca for more details.

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Courtesy of the County of Renfrew

CoverStory

Competition from the 2023 Ontario Winter Games in Renfrew County

Today’s Athletes, Tomorrow’s Olympians Province’s Top Youth Competitors to Shine at Ontario Winter Games By Kelsey Raynard

Courtesy of the County of Renfrew

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or the first time since 1974, Thunder Bay will host the Ontario Winter Games. It’s the province’s largest multi-sport event, which, for the past five decades, has hosted thousands of up-andcoming athletes as they prepare for national and international competitions. This year is no exception; from February 16 to 26, 1,350 participants (including athletes, coaches, and officials) will take part in 13 sporting events at various locations throughout the city. And while about half of the originally slated sports were forced to withdraw from this year’s competition due to high travel costs and a reduction in the number of available flights, venues throughout the city—including Lappe Nordic Centre, the Canada Games Complex, and Fort William Gardens—will be bustling with

action. Over 1,000 volunteers have answered the call to help support the games, which will ultimately benefit the local economy and city youth programs and clubs, and most importantly, inspire young athletes within the community and the province at large. The Ontario Winter Games kick off on Friday February 16, with opening ceremonies taking place at Fort William Historical Park from 6 to 9 pm. However, because the games are split up over two weekends (with many young athletes coming in waves), Ontario Winter Games coordinator Matthew Lawrence explains that the city decided to host two opening ceremonies, with the second happening on Friday February 23 (also from 6 to 9 pm at Fort William Historical Park). “We are hoping to get folks

CoverStory out for both ceremonies so that the community can give these kids a nice introduction to Thunder Bay,” he says. “The goal for each Friday is that for each wave of athletes, we want to give them the same experience; we want them to be pumped up arriving into town and excited about being here.” With so many athletes, parents, families, supporters, coaches, and officials coming to Thunder

Bay throughout the course of the games, Lawrence says that the upfront economic benefits to our community are enormous. Local clubs participating in the games also will benefit, he says, as these (sometimes lesser-known) sports are given a platform on the provincial stage. “It’s rare that individual, amateur sports really get a chance to showcase at a level like this, especially in northern Ontario,” Lawrence explains. “Having

an event like this lets us market those clubs and sports in our town, so that other kids that aren’t currently involved get a chance to see them, take interest, and hopefully join and build those programs within our community.” The biggest benefit of continuing to support the Ontario Winter Games, arguably, is the chance to support today’s youth athletes who hope to one day represent Canada

on a much larger stage—whether that be the Commonwealth Games, the Pan American Games, or even the Olympics, competing at the Ontario Winter Games is an important step towards realizing those goals. For more information about the Ontario Winter Games, visit tbaygames2024.ca.

Home Ice Advantage

TBay Curling Team Looking Forward to Ontario Games travel anywhere far.” Prior to the Ontario Games, Team Dubinsky will also compete in the national U-18 championships in early February, representing northern Ontario. They will also take part in the provincial U-21 championships in Longlac. But even with a busy curling schedule top of mind this month, the team members say they also want to experience everything the games have to offer. “I’m definitely excited to see some of the other events that are taking place at the same time—just seeing what those events are like for athletes our age, because I’ve really only seen curling at a high performance level like this,” Ariganello says. For Paul, who has known Dubinsky since they were about seven years old (Paul says Dubinsky first introduced her to curling), the opening ceremonies will be a highlight, as she will carry the flag for curling. “I’m super excited that I got selected for [that],” she says. “I’m also just excited to see all the sports that are going to be here and the other athletes at the opening ceremonies.”

 Matthew Lawrence

Courtesy of the County of Renfrew

For skip Claire Dubinsky and her U-18 team, competing against the province’s best young curlers in their hometown is one aspect of the upcoming Ontario Winter Games they’re looking forward to. “We’re really excited,” Dubinsky says. “We love feeding off the energy of the fans and the crowd, so I think having that hometown support [...] is going to be a lot of fun.” Dubinsky, who has been curling for about six years now, and her team—made up of third Rylie Paul, second Bella McCarville, and lead Lily Ariganello— also have another reason to enjoy competing at home: many of the major events during their season, which lasts roughly from September to April, involve a lot of time away from home, including times when they’re on the road travelling hundreds of kilometres, two to three times per month. “Normally we have to travel for these kinds of events,” says McCarville— who is the daughter of champion curlers Krista and Mike McCarville. “So I think it’ll be super nice that it’s here, our hometown, our home crowd. All our friends and family can come without having to

Sidney Ulakovic

By Matt Prokopchuk

The Walleye

CoverStory Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

By the Numbers TBay as a Sports Host By Bonnie Schiedel

Estimated number of 2024 Ontario Winter Games volunteers5

Year that Thunder Bay hosted the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, marking only the second time the event was ever held outside of Europe10

$758,000 Projected economic impact of Robin’s Minor Hockey Classic, January 20241

11 Dylan Darbyson

Number of Thunder Bay venues used for 2024 Ontario Winter Games6

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$3.46M

Economic impact of 2022 Scotties Tournament of Hearts (women’s curling championship)* *limited spectators allowed due to COVID restrictions*

2025

Year that Thunder Bay will next host Scotties Tournament of Hearts (women’s curling championship)8

1,350

Estimated number of athletes, coaches, and officials expected to attend 2024 Ontario Winter Games4

Number of sports represented at 2024 Ontario Winter Games7

Email correspondence from John Cameron, tourism development officer, City of Thunder Bay 2https://www. thunderbay.ca/en/city-services/resources/Documents/ OWG2024_SponsorshipPackage.pdf 3https://cces.ca/sites/ default/files/content/docs/pdf/cces-true-sport-report-2022-acceng.pdf 4City of Thunder Bay media release issued January 10, 2024 5https://www.thunderbay.ca/en/city-services/resources/ Documents/OWG2024_SponsorshipPackage.pdf 6Public comments by Matthew Lawrence, Ontario Winter Games coordinator 7City of Thunder Bay media release issued January 10, 2024 8https://www.curling.ca/blog/2023/10/03/back-tothe-lakehead 9https://www.nwosportshalloffame.com/copyof-photo-history-tour 10https://btnordic.ca/history/ 11https:// www.thunderbay.ca/en/city-hall/getting-the-show-on-the-road. aspx 12https://www.thunderbay.ca/en/tbay-games/meet-pachi. aspx 13https://www.xterraplanet.com/event/xterra-sleepinggiant#Info 14https://www.wbsc.org/en/news/dates-announcedfor-wbsc-womens-baseball-world-cup-finals-2024-worldchampion-to-be-crowned-on-3-august-in-thunder-bay-canada 15 Telephone interview with Molly Carlson, December 2021 1

Number of colours worn by the mascot of the Ontario Winter Games, representing inspiration (red), opportunity (green), and community (blue); PACHI the porcupine was originally created by elementary school students for the 2015 Pan Am Games and was adopted by the Ontario Games13

Courtesy of the County of Renfrew

1,000+

1995

Courtesy of th e Northweste rn Ontario Spor ts Hall of Fam e

Courtesy of the County of Renfrew

1996 Scott Tournament of Hearts winners, Team Ontario, skipped by Marilyn Bodogh

+250,000

Economic impact of 2020 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games

$6M

Projected economic impact of Ontario Winter Games, February 20242

Number of sports events hosted in annually in Canada, ranging from professional events to local tournaments3

$1.72M

Economic impact of 2023 Canadian Disc Golf Championships

Year that triathletes, duathletes, and trail runners will compete at XTERRA Thunder Bay at Boulevard Lake (August)13

5,000

Weight in pounds of the curling rock in front of Fort William Gardens, built at the Canada Car plant in 1960 for the Macdonald Brier Tankard (men’s curling championship)9

Luis Adrian Reyes

Did you know?

World champion diver Molly Carlson of Thunder Bay got her start at the Canada Games Complex: “I’m so grateful [to have] had that facility growing up because in the middle of nowhere, in Thunder Bay, we had this beautiful 10-metre facility, and that really allowed me to learn my basics to be where I am today.”15

Year that Thunder Bay hosted Jeux Canada Games; mascot Choklit Moose was created by Thunder Bay commercial artist Ken Campbell and named by local student Dan Stark11

2024

Economic impact of 2023 Nordiq Canada Ski Nationals

$435,000

1981

Dylan Darbyson

James Mirabelli

$5.1M

Lisa Ertolahti

Number of teams competing in the 2024 Women’s Baseball World Cup Finals, to be held in Thunder Bay (July and August)14

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

CoverStory

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Food Rapini and Cannellini Beans serves 4

Sidney Ulakovic

½ c dried or 540 ml can cannellini (white kidney) beans

Bean Appetito

THE G GRINNIN BELLY

By Chef Rachel Bayes

ust before Christmas, my sweetheart and I went out for lunch at Bar Italia. I was craving veggies, so I ordered the sautéed rapini and white beans, which arrived shortly after a plate of pane fresco and good olive oil. You bet I sopped up the garlicky beans ’n greens with the fresh Italian bread! So earthy and hearty, it really hit the spot. Mamma mia, era delizioso! Rapini, or broccoli rabe, is not just teeny broccoli. Part of the Brassicaceae (mustard) family, it’s more closely related to turnip and bok choy than to broccoli, believe

it or not. Rapini has a distinctive flavour—pungent and bitter, with a hint of almond. Blanching the rapini for a few minutes really dampens its bitterness; paired with the creamy beans, oil, and garlic, the flavours all blend together in nutty, buttery, silky heaven. This is truly one of those 30-minute meals (if you use canned or precooked beans) that’s made with just a handful of ingredients, and is perfect for busy weeknights. Oh, and served alongside crusty bread, it’s just the best—served to your sweetheart or to yourself!

If using dry beans, soak overnight in water, then cook on the stovetop or pressure cooker until tender. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, drain and rinse well, and set aside.

1 bunch rapini (broccoli rabe)

Trim ends from rapini, and place in a large pot of boiling water to blanche for 5-ish minutes, until the stalks are fork tender. Remove from water, and let drain in a colander.

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 shallot, minced Pinch or two of red chili flakes

Heat oil in a medium sauté pan, add shallots and chili flakes, stirring frequently until shallots are softened. Stir in garlic and heat for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Add blanched rapini to the sauté pan, tossing around to coat with garlicky goodness. Let cook 5 minutes; add beans and cook another 5 minutes. Check for seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed, and drizzle with more olive oil before serving.

SPOTLIGHT

ON INCLUSIVITY Cambrian Players is Thunder Bay’s longest-running community theatre group, and has been volunteer run since 1949. In advance of our 75th season, we’re addressing accessibility at our theatre. As we prepare to add an access lift and main-floor washroom to our space, we extend the invitation to our community and partners to help us reach our $150,000 fundraising goal. Join us in making Theatre for the Love of it accessible to all.

Donate today at cambrianplayers.com

Portraits

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OUR NEXT SHOW: The Snow Queen by Charles Way • Visit cambrianplayers.com

Food

Crooked Little Heart

DRINK OF THE MONTH

Barkeep

Story by Jeannie Dubois, Photo by Jack Barten

t. Paul Street is quite the little gem in Thunder Bay, studded with shop fronts that cater to all tastes and thirsts. Nestled in the middle is the unassuming Barkeep, the de rigueur cocktail lounge, which entices you in with its noir backdrop, urbane lighting, and singularly stacked back bar. Add to that a sultry playlist, some savoury charcuterie, and the peerless Duran pouring up his newest potion, and there may be a slight swoon. Served up in a Nick & Nora cut coupe glass, the Crooked Little Heart (dare we say a Valentine cocktail?) is the perfect blend of herbal gin and smooth white rum, fruit-forward orange Curaçao and bitter Aperol, and in-house cranberry cordial and in-house cedar bitters, all shaken with egg white and garnished with a cedar sprig that is gently set alight for that sweet sauna fragrance. It’s so fine that if this is what it means to be crooked, then I don’t ever want to play it straight. Barkeep 15C St Paul Street 807-767-0733

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Food

The New Beaux Daddy’s Can-Indian Fusion Meets Highway 61 Story by Michelle McChrsitie, Photos by Darren McChristie

t’s been a long haul for Kamal Sodhi and the team behind the new Beaux Daddy’s restaurant. They purchased the establishment in 2021 and officially opened on December 10, 2023. And while the name Beaux Daddy’s and remnants of the original Uncle Frank’s decor are the same, just about everything else is original. Sodhi and his partner operate a few other businesses around Thunder Bay, and moved here to run a gas station/truck stop/ restaurant near Upsala before the pandemic. If you’ve driven west of Thunder Bay in the past couple of years, you’ve probably noticed the signs for the Canadian/ Punjabi-style restaurant on the big building with the red roof. In case you were curious, the Fill ‘N Chill has over 350 Google reviews with an impressive average rating of 4.4. Needless to say, Sodhi and his team know how to put together a crowd-pleasing menu, and the one for Beaux Daddy’s is just that. “Our menu is a combination of East Indian food and North American food. We have tried to do a bit of fusion and presented the dishes in a way that they retain their authenticity, but are suited to the local palate,” he says. The menu is huge, even a little overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to ask your server a few questions or to make recommendations. Having tried something from every section of the menu, including the Amritsari fish pakoras, Indian chickpea salad (with pomegranates), samosas (the lightest, flakiest pastry), Mapusa fish curry, Old Delhi butter chicken (they sell the sauce to go), a veggie

 The hard-working team at Beaux Daddy's

burger (with an Indian twist) and kesar phirni (pudding made with ground rice, milk, sugar, nuts, and saffron), I can honestly say that every dish was beautifully presented and completely housemade, including the sauces. Sodhi says that popular specialty dishes include chicken and cauliflower wings and rosemary mustard sirloin steak, while the butter chicken croquettes (imagine butter chicken fused with breaded chicken strips), beef vindaloo (think rich, warm spices on a blustery cold day), and rabadi mousse (a sweet milk reduction with cardamom and rose) have quickly become local favourites. In keeping with some of the past traditions, Beaux Daddy’s plans to have live music, open the patio when spring gives way to summer, “plus a few more features to keep guests entertained,” says Sodhi. You can almost taste the nostalgia at this restaurant which first opened in 1956—there is a photo collage that pays tribute to the original owners and menu in the front entrance, and those of us of a certain vintage will recognize the chairs, fireplace, and other decor that have been thoughtfully preserved. “This restaurant is a part of Thunder Bay's history,” says Sodhi, “Firstly as Uncle Frank’s Supper Club and then as Beaux Daddy’s. It’s a well-known establishment and we love to relive that history.”

 Indian chickpea salad

 Old Delhi butter chicken

 Paneer ajwaini tikka (malia style)

 Samosas

 Kamal Sodhi and his partner Pankhuri

Find Beaux Daddy’s online at beauxdaddy.ca 1575 Highway 61 807-622-1111

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Food

How Near Is Here

R SUPERIO SIP

The Rise of Non-Alcoholic By Jeannie Dubois, Pommelier and Sommelier

h e t h e r i t ’s snapping on some crosscountry or downhill skis, cutting a hole in the shack for a line, strapping on some snowshoes, pulling out the toboggan, gearing up the dog sled, or lacing in for a skate, for a few short months we are naturally graced with endless winter activities in our beautiful, snow-clad community above the bay. When you get back in from whatever has gotten your blood pumping, if you’re feeling hot cocoa, warm tea or brisk coffee, dive in. Or perhaps you’ve got a hankering for something cooler to whet your whistle, but want to preserve that hard-won outdoor shine? We’ve got you covered. Non-alcoholic and alcohol-free drinks have had a major boom in the past few years, and producers are earnestly moving the marker very close to “looks like the real thing, tastes like the real thing,” without you losing any of your healthful glow. Up-to-date science has two different methods of delivery for creating alcohol-minimized drinks that still preserve the character ethos of what you’re imbibing: dealcoholization and limited fermentation. Dealcoholization is e s s e n t i a l l y a p ro c e s s whereby producers ferment, brew, or distill their product, and then remove the alcohol through practices such as evaporation, centrifuging, or reverse osmosis. Depending on

the methodology, there is often a dilution with water, as well as a back blend of flavour components for taste and texture. Sounds simple, right? In fact, this process takes longer than a regular run would and requires expensive specialized equipment, plus the harrowing task at the end of making it mimic the real thing. Unfortunately, that is why the cost of a dealc stacks up against the cost of a true brew and why most craft producers lean away from the endeavour. Conversely, depending on the product, a producer could apply a limited fer mentation method whereby they choose a yeast that is not vigorous and produces little alcohol, maintain a cold contact fer mentation (which translates to “low and slow”), or arrest the fermentation before it is complete to keep the alcohol by volume at a very minimal threshold. Again, easy peasy? These methods require more oversight and diligence in the final delivery of the product and also are less likely to have shelf stability, since they are not fully fermented per se and have had exposure to yeast. It’s an interesting conundrum, but one that a lot of smart cookies are currently applying themselves to. So get out there, get a sweat on under that winter sun, and then grab yourself a cold and tasty near-tohere glass of hard won goodness.

Wine:

Spirit:

Budweiser Prohibition $10.95 for 6 x 355 ml, 0% abv

Heineken 0.0 $12.95 for 6 x 330 ml, 0% abv

Corona Sunbrew $11.95 for 6 x 330 ml, 0.01% abv

Peroni Natro Azzuro 0.0 $12.95 for 6 x 330 ml, 0.01% abv

Guinness 0 $12.95 for 4 x 440 ml, 0.05% abv

Beer:

Collective Arts NonAlcoholic Hazy Pale Ale (with mosaic and citra hops) $2.75 for 355 ml, 0.4% abv

Bottega 0 Rosé Non-Alcoholic Wine (sparkling) $10.95 for 750 ml, 0.01% abv

Seedlip Grove NonAlcoholic Spirit (with orange, lemon peel, lemongrass and ginger) $45 for 700 ml, 0.05% abv

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Food

 Jennifer Childs, owner of Jennifer’s Gluten-Free Kitchen

Sweet and Savoury Jennifer’s Gluten-Free Kitchen

Review by Susan Pretty, Photos by Sidney Ulakovic

en years ago, Jennifer Childs was diagnosed as gluten-intolerant, and she soon realized how difficult it was to find 100% gluten-free options when dining out. After over 25 years as a professional fundraiser, she decided to pursue her dream of starting her own business. Childs left her job at the university and enrolled in culinary school to gain the skills and knowledge required to start a business in the food industry. Prior to opening her new storefront, Childs operated out of her home for over three years. During that time, she had the pleasure of meeting some amazingly kind and caring people. The number of people being diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance is astounding, and seems to only be growing. “I can’t tell you how much it means to me to be able to serve these individuals food that they feel safe enjoying,” she says. Childs opened her new storefront at 215 Red River Road just before Christmas, and looks decidedly at home in her new bright and clean digs.

Inside, customers can find baked goods such as cupcakes (the lemon is divine, with a tart filling and Swiss buttercream icing), muffins, cakes, and cookies—and of course, Nana’s butter tarts, a fan favourite, with either raisins or chocolate chips. On the savoury side, a few of the meals-to-go favourites are lasagna, chicken enchiladas, and power bowls. Full catering menus are available, and Childs also offers custom meals to build a menu based on client preference. One can tell right away that Childs is extremely kind and caring by the way she speaks about the people she cooks and bakes for. “There have been so many heartwarming experiences, like the customer who teared up when she picked up her order of onion rings as she hadn’t had them in over 10 years,” she recounts. “Or the time a mother sent me a photo of her young son devouring a gluten-free pizza I had prepared.” There’s going to be some special Valentine’s Day treats as well, so don’t hesitate to shop for your sweetheart at Jennifer’s Gluten-Free Kitchen!

For more information, swing by the shop Wednesday to Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. Visit jennifersglutenfreekitchen. com, or check out her Facebook and Instagram pages @jennifersglutenfreekitchen.

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CLE Grounds - Dove Building Northern & May Street tbcm.ca @tbaymarket

Food

Seler Restaurant & Wine

E OFF TH MENU

Review and photo by Jack Barten

or many restaurant lovers in Thunder Bay, 555 Dunlop Street holds a special place in their hearts. Formerly known as Bistro One, this was one of the original cool local restaurants for over a decade. But all things must change, and some change for the better. After a bit of a refresh, 555 Dunlop Street is the place to be once more as Seler Restaurant & Wine, and there’s no better proof of this than the subject of this month's Off the Menu: the filet mignon. When this filet is first placed in front of you, it's hard not to be taken aback by the presentation. The steak itself is placed next to a beautiful stack of potato pavé, carrots, and broccolini, as well as

a very impressive piece of potato glass that really brings attention to the plate. This presentation really elevates the experience when one decides to indulge in one of the best cuts of beef there is. Speaking of the steak itself: when ordering a filet, one expects a rich flavour and a very tender texture. This steak checks all those boxes. Furthermore, the filet is perfectly seasoned with a bit of flaky salt as a garnish on top, so you can experience every rich and decadent morsel. But, in many ways, a great restaurant steak experience is defined by the side dishes. Starting with the potato pavé, you have a very impressive bit of starch to break up every bite of steak. For those

who have never had potato pavé, it can be described as many layers of paper-thin sliced potatoes stacked upon each other with créme and thyme in between, and then baked. This provides a wonderful texture and a unique experience perfect for filet. Also paired with the filet are some choice vegetables in the form of roast heirloom broccolini and carrots. These vegetable selections add some beautifully earthy flavours and will definitely be crowd-pleasers, as every rational human being loves carrots and broccolini. But the thing that really ties all these wonderful components together is a red wine demi-glace. This adds a great salty and slightly sweet flavour to the plate and establishes one common theme

while elevating the whole experience. Every aspect of this dish really builds on everything else to make for a thoroughly modern filet dish. One can talk about a fantastic filet all day, surely annoying everyone around them while also making them hungry. So, to save us all some time, this writer will simply say that you, the reader, should stop by Seler on your next date night or evening of self-indulgence and experience their filet mignon for yourself. Seler Restaurant & Wine 555 Dunlop Street 807-622-2478

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Food

Celebrating 10 Years

The Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy and Engagement in Food Policy By Sarah Siska, Coordinator, Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy

ommunity food systems need community input, and that’s exactly why the Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy (TBAFS) was created. Our roots trace back to the Thunder Bay food charter, developed by the Food Action Network in 2008 and endorsed by the City of Thunder Bay, the District Social Services Administration Board, and 33 other municipalities and organizations in the region. The food charter codified the goals of building community economic development, ensuring social justice, fostering population health, preserving environmental integrity, and celebrating culture and collaboration. In 2013, the TBAFS was created to uphold the goals of the charter through integrating community voices into regional food system planning. This resulted in a communitygenerated action plan called Connecting Food and Community, released in 2014, when diverse groups came together to determine

specific policy recommendations for a just food future for the Thunder Bay region. But what is a food strategy? A food strategy is like the heartbeat of a community’s food system. They exist across the country in many forms, but share the common characteristics of bringing diverse groups of passionate individuals—farmers, chefs, activists, community members, and more—to shared tables to shape the way we eat, grow, and share food. Food connects us to each other, to the land and water, and to our diverse cultures. Food strategies empower their communities to shape their regional food systems by fostering connections and creating shared responsibility for healthier and more resilient regions. And, as we saw with the recently released Emergency Food Plan, Thunder Bay knows how to take care of our own. Whether we act on it or not, our food systems are in constant flux, affected by climate change, economic shifts, and global market

dynamics. In an era where both corporate control and the distance between where food is produced and consumed is increasing, many feel powerless to enact change on the local level. But, we’re mainly limited by what we believe to be true— hopelessness breeds hopelessness, but we grow through curiosity and innovation. We can come together to invest in better food futures. The small act of saving a seed has huge benefits to the resilience of our food system and the ability of our ecosystem to adapt to changing climates. Similarly, the small act of having a conversation with your friends and neighbours about ways to enact positive change grows over time—one small seed can become a flourishing garden when we nurture it together. This is why we’ve been tracking our progress toward food sovereignty—a framework where the power of food is given to the people so that they can make the choices that are best for their social and

ecological communities—through the community food system report cards. When we combine knowledge of our current realities with passion and vision, we can plant the seeds today we want to eat tomorrow. We have the knowledge, now we need to act on it. As we move into our second decade, our goal is to hear from more voices. The TBAFS is the heartbeat of our food system because it is grounded in heart—bringing together passionate people who truly care about the well-being of this place, along with the current and future generations who will live and eat here. Join us in creating a food system that’s not just sustainable and reciprocal, but also delicious, equitable, and full of opportunities for all. To read the food charter and strategy, head to tbfoodstrategy. com. To lend your voice to food systems change, email coordinator @tbfoodstrategy.com.

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FilmTheatre

Winter Sports Movies By Michael Sobota

THE T D MOS SECONURABLE S PLEA G WE THIN HE DO IN TK DAR A COLUMN ABOUT MOVIES

To the game and getting out of this hick town. Thank god there is a sport for middlesized white boys. -Derek Sutton (Patrick Swayze), raising a glass to toast ice hockey, in Youngblood.

he Ontario Winter Games may feature a diminished number of competitive winter sports when all those athletes arrive in the city in February, but movies are full of actors playing athletes competing at winter games. Here are four movies featuring sports that will be represented (as of this writing) when the athletes come to town.

Youngblood (1986)

Together with John Whitman, director Peter Markle crafted a screenplay about a young American boy who is sent by his dad “up north” to Canada to build a reputation as a solid hockey player. That boy, Dean Youngblood, is played by Rob Lowe, who was just 22 years old at the time and trying to build a reputation as a solid actor. He is joined in this hometown hockey story by actors Keanu Reeves (also 22 at the time) and 34-year old Patrick Swayze. Of the three actors, only Reeves could actually skate when the movie was made. The story is clichéd, with rough-and-tumble hockey and a love affair between Youngblood and the coach’s daughter. Purportedly set in Thunder Bay but not shot here, the film features a static image of the Thunder Bay Medical Centre on Algoma Street pretending to be the hospital where one of the characters is taken when injured. It’s worth watching as a window on these young actors’ fastbreaking careers.

Breaking the Surface: The Greg Louganis Story (1997)

This is the biopic of Greg Louganis, the only American athlete to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in diving (in 1984 and 1988). Directed by Steven Hilliard Stern from a script by Alan Hines (based on the biography by Louganis and Eric Marcus), the movie reveals the gruelling training that serious athletes must endure, as well as the personal back stories that affect that training and their careers, and the sports drama on the world stage. Louganis (Mario Lopez) grew up with an abusive father, Pete (Michael Murphy) and was often bullied at school. He saw sports, and specifically diving, as a way to excel and “prove himself” in that judgemental atmosphere. Louganis was also a closeted homosexual. At the 1988 Olympics, he miscalculated a dive, cracking his head on the board and causing blood to get into the pool. Louganis had not disclosed at the time that he was HIV-positive. Despite that one error, he triumphed at those games and thereafter retired. This is a fairly straight-forwardly told biography, notwithstanding the secrets Louganis revealed following his retirement.

Men with Brooms (2002) Hot off of his success as the star of hit television series Due South, Paul Gross created a starring vehicle for himself and a fine batch of Canadian actors. He directed the film and co-wrote it with John Krizanc and Graham Wagner. The story is about four ne’er-do-well young adult males who, carrying their own personal histories and baggage, come together for an attempt to win the “Golden Broom,” a sort of regional curling prize that previously eluded them. The story is clichéd, full of lowlevel levity but simultaneously bold and sassy for having been made more than 20 years ago. It features lots of nudity, simulated sex, mild drug-taking, and no violence. Leslie Nielsen comes aboard as Gross’s character’s estranged dad who coaches the guys, and who also grows mushrooms—not the kind you might put in your homemade lasagna. For all of the film’s simple comedy, it has genuine Canadian charm. And beavers. Real live ones. Lots of them. It also features music by The Tragically Hip.

Foxcatcher (2014)

This is a film about wrestling. Not choreographed WWE stuff, but athletes training in the sport with the dream of getting into, and winning gold at, the Olympics. Co-scripted by E. Max Frye and Dan Futterman and directed by Bennett Miller, this is the dark, gleaming gem in this curated list of winter sports films. Miller won the 2014 Palme d’Or for directing at the Cannes Film Festival for this movie, and the story is based on true events. A wealthy scion of the American du Pont family, John (played chillingly by Steve Carell) finances a private wrestling training academy and recruits a young star athlete, Mark Schultz (played innocently by Channing Tatum) and Mark’s brother, David (played with quiet maturity by Mark Ruffalo) as his assistant coach. Gradually, the psychology of the story emerges about the immense power John holds over both Mark and David, and his deeply unraveling psychological issues. With superb cinematography by Greig Fraser and a haunting musical score by Rob Simonsen, this was one of the best films of 2014, and a quiet masterpiece.

And here are six more winter-sports stories made for the big screen: Brave (2012, archery), The Shot (2015, biathlon), The Fencer (2015, fencing), White Snow (2020, cross-country skiing), Teammates (2021, biathlon), and Off Track (2022, cross-country skiing).

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FilmTheatre

Danelle Charette and Cheyenne Scott

Two Indians

Another Falen Johnson Masterpiece Comes to the Magnus Stage By Taylor Onski

agnus Theatre is welcoming back audiences to its mainstage theatre with a newly renovated lobby, bar, and box office. So what better way to ring in this new chapter than with a play by acclaimed Mohawk and Tuscarora playwright Falen Johnson?

A finalist for the 2021 Governor General Award for English-language drama, Two Indians follows cousins Win (Danelle Charette) and Roe (Cheyenne Scott) reuniting in the city after a family tragedy. While Win stayed on the First Nation and brings the history and pieces left

of the tragedy to the story, Roe left the community for the big city and brings the realities of finding footing as an Indigenous person in an urban setting. “It's about survivor's guilt, the people who stayed, and the challenges Indigenous people still

face,” says director Natalie Robitaille. “It’s also a really lovely story in that it’s about a broken family, and can you fix it after it’s been broken?” First coming to Magnus Theatre as an actor in the 2019 production of This is How We Got Here, and again in 2022 to direct Falen Johnson’s Salt Baby, Robitaille is thrilled to be back. “I love it here. I guess it shows because I’m here for the third time and very excited to be back,” says Robitaille. “This theatre is this lovely, massive stage, yet still has the intimacy that can do these plays.” This production is even more intimate, as it is just the two actors onstage in conversation, with dialogue that will make audiences both laugh and reflect. “Falen’s just so wonderful at writing conversation,” says Robitaille. “She uses a lot of humour to pack a punch at the same time.” As for what she hopes audiences will take away from the show, Robitaille hopes Win and Roe’s story allows viewers to both learn something new and reflect on what they already know. “It's always about learning. I think many people find many things in this story,” she says. “If anyone has experienced anything similar to what these cousins are going through [such as] survivor guilt or if anyone is Indigenous and has gone to the city and is trying to reconnect with their family, I just hope they can connect with these two people and what they’ve been through.” Two Indians runs until February 10 at Magnus Theatre. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit magnustheatre. com or call the box office at 807-345-5552.

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A Sea Change for Superior

FilmTheatre

A Reality Check for the Greatest Lake Story by Michelle McChristie, Images Courtesy of the Center for Global Environmental Education, Hamline University

follow the news and emerging s c i e n c e re g a rd i n g L a k e Superior pretty closely, and wondered what A Sea Change for Superior—a documentary co-produced by the Center for Global Environmental Education (CGEE) and PBS North—would tell me that I hadn’t already heard. I’m the kind of nerd who finds a way to weave facts into dinner conversation, like “Did you know that Lake Superior is among the fastest warming of the world’s large lakes?” But, despite my initial skepticism, this film stirred something in me, perhaps because it expertly weaves in the cultural elements connected to the fabric of news and science. “We certainly thought a lot about this,” says writer and producer John Shepard. “An important goal in the production was to represent perspectives and voices of diverse stakeholders and those whose lives are closely tied to the lake.” Among the residents and stakeholders profiled is a relay team of world-class distance swimmers who accomplished the astonishing feat of swimming roughly 73 kilometres along Minnesota’s North Shore, non-stop and without wetsuits, at the end of August 2023. During their swim, the water was 15.6°C—not what people expect along stretches of exposed shoreline. Shepard says the CGEE came up with the idea and helped organize and support the relay. News of the potentially record-breaking swim spread like wildfire (to use a climate change analogy), attracting local and national media attention and giving pause for reflection for anyone who has plunged or swam in Superior. The documentary is separated into three segments: Legacy, A Sea Change, and Stewardship. “We wanted to present the implications of the warming of the lake in the context of its legacy

as that world’s largest lake that is famously frigid, clear, and clean. We also wanted to emphasize stewardship and encourage folks to engage in addressing issues associated with climate change and the threats it poses to Superior,” explains Shepard. If you’ve lived in Thunder Bay for a few decades, you’ve seen this play out: pollution and habitat destruction that residents, industry, and government have worked to clean up and restore, a movement towards greater protection, and greater awareness of the impacts our personal choices have on the watershed. Shepard hopes people will come away from the film with an understanding that “our freshwater resources are precious, that climate change is impacting them, and that we all have a role to play in addressing these issues.” So what can you do? Maybe this is a spoiler alert, but Shepard says the youth in the final segment of the documentary describe a number of things everyone can do, like “reducing energy waste, using electric vehicles, reducing use of single-use plastics. Urban dwellers can keep pollutants out of storm drains to help mitigate problems like algal blooms. People can get involved at the community level encouraging climate-change mitigation strategies.” A Sea Change for Superior reminds us that we’ve banded together to restore and protect the greatest lake in the past, but now it’s really time to step up and help this incredible resource.

 Karen Zemlin (age 55) at the start of the Lake Superior relay swim; Zemlin holds the English Channel record for women over 50

 The route from Split Rock Lighthouse State Park to Duluth, Minn.  The relay team and their kayak support—each member swam 60-minute rotations during the 23.5-hour swim

Stream A Sea Change for Superior: The Warming of the World’s Largest Lake on CGEE Hamline’s Vimeo channel. Visit cgee. hamline.edu/currentinitiatives/sea-change-forlake-superior for details.

The Walleye

FilmTheatre

 Skyler Duggan as Orin

Little Shop of Horrors

All the DAZE Productions Goes Somewhere That’s Green Story by Taylor Onski, Photos by Kristine Marie Photography

I  Jordan Humeniuk as Audrey and Don Mercado as Seymour  The ensemble cast

f you need a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift and want to go for a floral arrangement, I highly suggest not treating your loved ones to a bloodthirsty, blues-singing Venus flytrap. Instead, why not watch one cause a ruckus in All the DAZE’s production of Little Shop of Horrors? Initially set to premiere in 2020, the production was postponed due to the pandemic just one week before opening night. Four years later, the actors and plants are now hungry to take the stage at Magnus Theatre. “I thought we would be starting all over again, but no, it was like riding a bike,” says director Marcia Arpin. “Because this was one of those have-todos where if COVID went away, we needed to get this one in front of an audience.” With music by beloved composer Alan Menken, this story follows sweet Seymour (Don Mercado) and loveable Audrey (Jordan Humeniuk) who wish for a better life outside of Skid Row. When a total eclipse of the sun births a Venus flytrap named Audrey II (Felicia Crichton) in the flower

shop where Seymour works, he begins to care for her. However, Audrey II’s growth in both height and craving for human blood rises amidst this rock horror comedy of a musical. “It’s like my teen self revisiting the 80s—everything that was cheesy, and good horror movie knock-offs,” Arpin says. “I am hopeful that for my age group, it brings back the nostalgia of what the 80s represented to us. And then for a new generation of theatre goers, [it will] introduce them to this classic.” Twenty local actors aged 16 and up, playing everything from from doo-wop singers to a sadistic dentist, make Arpin’s leap away from youth productions a seamless one, filled with collaboration and bigger risks beyond All the DAZE’s well-respected repertoire of youth theatre. “It’s an all-star cast—a beautiful collaboration of Thunder Bay’s music scene, drag show royalty, youth theatre graduates, and parents shedding their layer of parenthood and just being playful and awesome,” says Arpin.

Little Shop of Horrors runs February 16 and 17 at Magnus Theatre. To purchase tickets, visit magnustheatre.com.

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The Kingdom of Drag

FilmTheatre SSIONS CONFE DRAG A F O DEALER

Story by Jimmy Wiggins, Photo by I. Love

hen we first started running drag shows in Thunder Bay, the scene looked a lot different than what you see today. Believe it or not, in those first batch of shows, most of the performers were drag kings with only a few queens in the mix. Like any arts scene, things change over the years and more queens would start to emerge, especially after RuPaul’s Drag Race started gaining massive steam worldwide. During this time, a lot of the kings had moved on or stopped performing and the queens dominated the scene. But over the last few years we’ve seen a resurgence of kings who bring new life and new ideas to the table and the stage. Performing as a drag king means different things to different folks. To some kings, it’s a form of self-discovery and a means to express their own creativity. “For me, it means I get to explore the more masculine side of myself,” says local drag king and cosplayer Seren Tonin. “I love to express my emotions and my political thoughts in a way that’s still enjoyable to those watching, and it’s cheaper than therapy.” Other kings view it as their duty as members of a marginalized group to lead by example. “It is a high honour to represent the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We are the figureheads and the mascots,” says Ivan Love, a local drag king and winner of The Walleye’s Best Drag King/Queen of 2023. “It is so important to show, especially the younger generations, a diverse representation of successful and joyful queer lifestyle, ranging from kings to queens to nonbinary drag personas. Queer youth need to see representation to erase the feeling of being othered that so many queer youths experience.” For the drag community at large, the presence of kings means inclusion, diversity, and variety. “Drag kings show that there is room for everyone,” says local drag king Fitz N

Cider. “There are no rules for drag. It’s an expressive form of entertainment and art. It's a place where one can explore different avenues. It’s breaking away from the traditional heteronormative expectations. More importantly, it's a safe space for everyone.” “I personally believe that drag kings are vital to the drag scene because no two kings are ever the same,” says local drag king Devin Devine. “Each one is uniquely talented in their own way.” These days, anyone, regardless of any archaic barrier, can be a drag king. The rules of gender—and who can perform as what—don’t apply. This means more people can participate, enjoy, and be inspired by drag than ever before. But the battle for respect is far from over and being a drag king still comes with its own obstacles. To some kings, it can feel like an uphill battle for equality, and many feel they need to work much harder for the same recognition as their queen counterparts. “The biggest challenge I face as a drag king is having to work twice as hard for half the credit,” says Seren Tonin. “Thanks to RuPaul’s Drag Race, everyone and their grandmother knows what a drag queen is,” adds Ivan Love. “However, when I tell people I do drag, they still ask what I mean, thinking drag is an art reserved only for men impersonating women. Kings do not get the same representation in the mainstream media that our feminine counterparts do.” But there is hope for change. Recently, drag kings have started to be featured on popular drag reality TV competitions like The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula and Call Me Mother, some having done exceptionally well on the shows. And yet, RuPaul has yet to follow suit. “If you’ve only ever seen queens, you’ve been missing out,” says Fitz N Cider. “Kings give a different kind of show and experience.”

Devin Devine and Ivan Love

Catch some of the kings at the Heartless Anti-Valentines Drag Show, February 10 at Black Pirates Pub. Follow @wigginsproductions, @tbaydrag, and @tbshows.

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TheArts

 The Wolf Tracks Gallery storefront on Simpson Street

The Beating Heart of the Wolf

Cohesion of Art and Family at Wolf Tracks Gallery Story by Amy Sellors, Photos by Candace Wesley

amily is at the heart of Wolf Tracks Gallery at 611 Simpson Street. Over 20 years ago, Ed and Maxine Wesley were living in Longlac. Ed loved the designs his wife was creating with fabric on polar fleece jackets. They didn’t have a store, but Ed knew Maxine was creating something special. He knew her  Ed Wesley

The Walleye

jackets would sell, but she took some convincing. He packed up her samples, took them out into the community, and sold every last one. Having seen the popularity of her work, Ed suggested Maxine start working on fabric. She was uncertain, but he persisted, and she started designing and creating fabric art murals depicting scenes from her

 Tapestries created by by Maxine Wesley

life. Ed took the samples and once again, sold them all. That was the beginning of the brand Max-Wear, and a driving reason behind their decision to open a store in Thunder Bay. In 2000, Wolf Tracks Gallery opened on Red River Road, and then moved to Bay Street. In 2014, the Wesleys purchased their own building on Simpson Street, and there they

 Candace Wesley and Peter Wesley

stand today. As their family grows, so does their business. The Wesley family is the heart of this enterprise, and everyone has a role. Maxine, Ed, and Peter (Ed and Maxine’s son) provide much of the artwork and wearable art pieces in the store. Ed and Peter silkscreen their designs on T-shirts, hoodies, and caps. Peter’s wife Candace is focused on marketing the business. And it doesn’t stop there—sisters, sistersin-law, and grandchildren all have their art filling Wolf Tracks Gallery. It’s a feast for the eyes. “We’re all artists, from the grandparents to the grandchildren,” says Candace. “Everyone has something to do with the shop. There are art pieces in the shop from every one of us.” Maxine’s fabric art murals are on display throughout the shop. Intricate and detailed, they depict images of her childhood. A residential school survivor, Maxine’s work is healing both for her and for the many people who identify with the memories she sews. Her work can be found adorning the walls of homes and organizations across Canada. But not everyone has the wall space available for Maxine’s works, so that’s where Ed and Peter’s wearable

“We’re all artists, from the grandparents to the grandchildren.” art comes in. They sell lots of hoodies and T-shirts to people in the region, at pow wows, and online. Their designs start as original sketches, which are then silkscreened onto fabric. Maxine’s art is also now on items like cushions. “We’re trying to be unique,” says Candace. The smaller, more usable items allow customers to take art home with them for a lower price. The gallery has a role in preserving Indigenous art. “When people come here, they will see a little piece of home,” says Ed, who is a collector of Indigenous art as well as being a creator. “The shop is unique. It’s an experience. You’ll always see more. We want to share it with people. We want to bring them back to their childhood memories.” While Wolf Tracks Gallery has been in Thunder Bay since 2000, since the pandemic they’ve been able to reach a broader audience.

COVID-19 forced both businesses and customers to migrate online, and transitioning more of the business to Facebook and Instagram helped them connect with customers far and wide. “Our store is a little gem,” says Ed. “We put a lot of pride and joy into what we do,” adds Candace. Peter Wesley has been running the business for the last 14 years or so and because family is at the heart of the business, that’s the succession plan as well. “My husband is a deadly artist,” Candace says. Wolf Tracks Gallery is an opportunity for everyone in the family to create and make an impact. Visit Wolf Tracks Gallery at 611 Simpson Street, and on Facebook at Wolf Tracks Gallery.

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TheArts

Seeking Joy

A AND U O TH S DS R O W

Photographer Gerianne Johnson Looks for Beauty Story by Bonnie Schiedel, Photos by Gerianne Johnson

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 Favourite Photo  Frosty Farm

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or as long as I can remember, I’ve loved taking photographs,” says Thunder Bay photographer Gerianne Johnson. Old slides taken by her dad always show her with a camera in her hand, even as a little kid, she says, and as a young mom she ran a home daycare and bought a new camera with her first paycheque. Over the years she’s sharpened her skills in different ways, from photography courses at Confederation College and the New York Institute of Photography to on-the-job training with a local wedding photographer to city photo clubs like Imagetrekkers and Northern Focus. “At photo clubs, you get to meet other people and see what others are working on, and so that is a big inspiration,” she says. That inspiration shows itself in a variety of ways, as Johnson divides her passion for photography into several different areas. While she doesn’t do wedding photography any more (“I didn’t like the pressure,” she says), family portrait sessions are a favourite. “You can make someone feel so beautiful, so special, by taking a nice picture of them,” she says. “A flattering picture just boosts them in a way that nothing else does. There’s such joy in that.” Johnson also loves capturing both pageantry and casual moments as a volunteer photographer at events like Country on the Bay, Remembrance Day ceremonies at Waverley Park, the Special Olympics Winter Games, the Cancer Society Relay for Life, and this month’s Ontario Winter Games. During the early days of the pandemic

(with the permission of the health unit) she took part in the worldwide Front Steps Project, taking family pictures outdoors from a distance using a long lens, in exchange for the family donating to a local charity or contributing a few items to a neighbourhood blessing box. “That was probably the best thing I ever did.” “My other love is definitely nature photography. I think that this world is just exquisite,” she says. “It’s not just that grand landscape kind of thing— there’s so much beauty in everything. Sometimes it’s a crooked old fence, you know, and it just catches your eye, sometimes it’s a flower that’s past its prime and [covered with] the fall frost. The petals are all wilted, but it’s gorgeous. You get it in the right light and it just shines.” One recent project has been experimenting with a technique called Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) to blur the images in an interesting or artistic way. Along the way, she says, “I realized that if I want to be a photographer, I have to be a photographer. I have to carry my camera with me everywhere. I have to shoot every day, so you’re training your eye…I just drive somewhere. I don’t often even know which direction I’m gonna go when I leave my house! But I just head out and I come home when I’ve taken a picture of something that makes me go, ‘ooooh.’” To see more of Gerianne Johnson’s work, search Gerianne Johnson Photography on Facebook or Instagram.

Karen Ramsdale

TheArts

 Photographer Gerianne Johnson

 ICM Tree Farm

 Pathway

 Canola Under Clouds  ICM Autumn Vibe

 Wildflowers

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TheArts

Down by the Water

Illuminated Public Art Part of 2024 SnowDay Events By Matt Prokopchuk

Chad Kirvan

 The Coin Carousel snow sculpture from the 2023 SnowDay on the Waterfront by Chad Kirvan and Palash Baksi  The EXPosure installation, which will be featured at this year’s SnowDays

chosen surface.” It will be shown on both days from 4 to 10 pm. “They do […] communitybuilding projects all over Canada and the world, so this is one of their projects that they are going to be able to bring in and be a part of our event,” Costanzo says. In addition to the EXPosure exhibit, the city’s call for community-based artists to create snow sculptures for the event closed in midJanuary, ensuring the popular attractions will be back this year (weather-dependent). And with the festivities lasting into the evening hours this year, Costanzo says artists have been also asked to include some sort of light component to their works. “That whole area will be lit, and we have some other ideas and surprises,” she adds. In all, Costanzo says people can expect a lot of the same fun, free experiences as in years past. Last year’s SnowDay also included food vendors, a slew of outdoor games and activities, and other interactive opportunities from a large roster of local agencies and organizations. “Dress warmly and come out and have some fun,” Costanzo says. “We just hope that people come out and enjoy themselves.” SnowDay-specific programming will run from 5 to 7 pm on February 18 and from 4 to 8 pm on February 19. For more information, visit thunderbay.ca and search for SnowDay on the Waterfront.

“I think using the [artificial] light is going to make this a really neat experience—an immersive experience—for people”

Courtesy of Lucion

n o w s c u l p t u re s a n d a travelling public art exhibit from Montreal will be at the centre of the visual component of this year’s SnowDay on the Waterfront, with the goal of transforming Prince Arthur’s Landing’s festival grounds into an “open-air art gallery,” according to one city official. The event typically takes place each year on Family Day at the north-side waterfront. Louisa Costanzo, the supervisor of cultural development, community programming, and events for the City of Thunder Bay, says that will be the case again this year, however, programming will also take place the day before, on February 18. Another change this year, she says, is that the festivities will last into the evening hours, allowing for illuminations to be a part of the artistic show. “The winter season is just amazing in general,” she says. “I think using the [artificial] light is going to make this a really neat experience—an immersive experience—for people.” The featured temporary art installation is called EXPosure, by Lucion, a Montreal-based multidisciplinary public art installation company. It includes three large globes that project visitors’ images on them, who can then use a light source (like the torch light on your phone) to “[transform] light into a dynamic paintbrush, creating strokes of light,” according to Lucion’s website. “When they turn the light source toward themselves, users light up their faces, producing a selfie on the

The Walleye

TheArts

Beaded Wall Hanging

HE FROM T BAY R E THUND ERY’S LL ART GA TION COLLEC

By Penelope Smart, Curator, and Caitlyn Bird, Curatorial Assistant, Thunder Bay Art Gallery Artist: As yet unidentified Title: Beaded Wall Hanging Date: 1920s–1940s Medium: Wool, glass beads, thread Size is 26 x 18 inches Collection of the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, from the estate of Mrs. Adelaide Taylor, 1987 hunder Bay Art Gallery curator Penelope Smart and curatorial assistant Caitlyn Bird take a closer look at a beaded wall hanging that is part of a larger donation of beaded wall pockets. This beaded hanging and the wall pockets are believed to be 100 years old, some of the oldest works in the gallery’s collection. The exhibition Wall Pocket is on view until March 3. Penelope (non-beader): What I notice first is the brilliant red material, which looks like velvet in the image, but is wool. This wall hanging was donated by Mrs. Adelaide Taylor, so that means it was most likely purchased by a relative of hers, archdeacon Richard Fairies (1870–1964), around the turn of the century. Works in this donation are decorative items created by Northern Cree and Swampy Cree artists believed to be from northern Manitoba and the Hudson Bay area, where the archdeacon worked as a missionary. We don’t know the artist’s name, so it’s not certain. The closely beaded pattern of flowers, buds, and vines looks similar to Ojibwe floral, but feels more compact and closer to real life, or less stylized. The many-branched pattern looks similar to “tree of life” symbolism to me. Caitlyn,

looking closely at the beads, I think there are older and rare “greasy” green glass beads used. What do you think? Caitlyn (beader): Yes, this piece has a few potential “greasy” seed beads happening. For those nonbeaders, this sought-after glass bead dates back to the 19th century and is slightly translucent, which gives it a glowing, or "greasy" effect. Many of the greasy seed beads found in contemporary works today are considered antique, where the artists “hunted” for them, so to speak. To me, they’re so beautiful and really add the zaa-zaa to any beaded piece you're working on. Plus, it adds a nice touch to have something older accentuate your piece. One thing that really stood out to me when viewing this masterpiece, and I think speaks to your tree of life comment, Penelope, is the passion of the artist, who is not yet known. I become instantly curious when I look at the overall quality of this piece—the attention to detail in design and colour placement, which I assume took hours, days, even months. I look at material used and I can see the artist used the best of the best in beads and fabric, and that to me is an indication that this project was really important to the artist and really allows me to see or feel what the artist might have felt at the time: the creativity, the excitement, the hype.

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TheArts

Aanikoobijiganag Beading Symposium A Time to Celebrate

Story and photos by Emily Turner

E Beaders at work during the Bring Your Own Bead night at the gallery

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very once in a while, something happens in this city that provides an important reminder that we are not as small as we sometimes say we are. The arrival of Radical Stitch at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery offered one of those reminders. Radical Stitch is one of the largest collections of Indigenous beadworks that has ever been displayed in a gallery exhibition; the significance of Thunder Bay being included in its tour cannot be understated, as it reflects how our city has been recognized for its incredibly talented art community. To celebrate Radical Stitch, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery has collaborated with local Indigenous artists to organize Aanikoobijiganag, the firstever beading symposium in northern Ontario, from February 8 to 10. Aanikoobijiganag is an opportunity for Indigenous artists to come together to celebrate and strengthen their talent for traditional artistry. Over the course of three days, attendees will experience workshops that will cover the art of birchbark basketry, porcupine quillwork, fish skin tanning, caribou hair tufting, moose hide tanning, floral beadwork, and edge beading. Each workshop is intended to expand and strengthen participants’ skill and understanding of beading. In addition to the ongoing workshops, there will be panels where artists and the co-curators of Radical Stitch share their expertise and experience with these artforms. While tickets sold out quite quickly, some of

the scheduled events are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend, such as the opening and closing events and a hide tanning demonstration. “We’re really showcasing Thunder Bay and Fort William First Nation as a place of deep talent,” says gallery curator Penelope Smart. “Everyone thinks contemporary art happens elsewhere, but no, it’s happening here, and we have a lot to celebrate and share with others.” Some notable names in the field of Indigenous art who will be co-leading the event include Gail Bannon, Shelby Gagnon, Shannon Gustafson, Leanna Marshall, Kanina Terry, Delaney Keshena, Katie Longboat, and Jean Marshall, though many other acclaimed artists will be in attendance as well, such as Melissa Twance, who will be speaking at the opening event. Marshall has been instrumental in the facilitation of Aanikoobijiganag, as she brings her knowledge and experience from many other bead symposiums. “What I love about [bead symposiums] is that they’re interactive. We get to hang out and skill-share,” she says. Marshall hopes Aanikoobijiganag will help people form new friendships, gain new knowledge they can pass down, and enjoy the opportunity to network and connect. Make time to visit Radical Stitch before it departs to see what the buzz is all about. Visit theag.ca for more information.

two DELICIOUS things UNDER ONE ROOF

A HUNGER FOR EXPLORATION YEAR ROUND

1181 Golf Links Rd. @dawsontrailcraftbrewery @station.22

Two Indians

Theatre

By Falen Johnson

Directed by Natalie Robitaille Jan 25 to Feb 10, 2024 Magnus Theatre Mainstage

For tickets: magnustheatre.com | 807.345.5552

©El Tres

Featuring Cheyenne Scott and Danelle Charette

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

Outdoor

Elliot Wheatley skijoring with Coda at his home in mid-January

Skijoring on One Island Lake Story by Elliot Wheatley and Jacqui Wheatley, Photos by Anna Buske

bout four years ago, my younger sister Hanna and I decided that we didn’t want to play hockey anymore—instead, we wanted to start dog sledding. During COVID, my family decided to move out to the country, and my mom got this crazy idea that we should get some sled dogs—and dad agreed! We ended up with four of them. That same winter, I also started cross-country skiing. Lappe Nordic Centre is really close to our house and I really enjoyed being outside in nature; skiing is a great way to get outdoors and make friends. Fast-forward to last year, when we got two more sled dog puppies. It was exciting because my sister, brother, and I got to raise them from when they were babies. I got better at skiing and they grew up and got stronger. They are one and a half years old now, and are really great sled dogs. This winter has been strange and disappointing because I have not been able to do a lot of skiing or dog sledding, as there has been

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very little snow. After Christmas, we took the two younger dogs, Spruce and Cedar, and one of the others (Coda)—all three are Alaskan huskies—out to One Island Lake where our camp is. Huskies are very energetic dogs, need lots of exercise, and it’s our job to make sure they are happy and healthy. The ice was great and there was a little bit of snow covering it. Our neighbour had made a track around part of the lake that we have been skating on. But now that there was some snow, I wanted to get on my skis.I have always wanted to teach the puppies to skijor—a sport where a person on skis is pulled, usually by an animal like a dog—and hoped they would be able to pull me,, but I had my doubts about the safety of skijoring on the lightly snow-covered lake, especially with the younger, more inexperienced dogs. I was really hesitant, but my mom said it would be a good time to try it out, so I agreed to try it once. I put on my helmet and my skate skis and attached a special skijoring harness that goes around my waist,

Outdoor with a special bungee line that attaches to the dogs’ harnesses. First, we hooked up Coda, the older dog, and I convinced my older brother to drive the quad in front of me so the dog knew where to go. Coda followed my brother out and off we went. We did a small loop and instead of coming back, we kept going. Coda was awesome! She loves to run and pull—essentially, I skied and she did the rest. We did the whole 2.5 kilometre track in only a few minutes. It was so much fun. We flew along the lake faster than I have ever skied before. It was like she was teaching me; she already knew what to do and I just had to glide on my skis behind her. We then hooked up Spruce. I was scared, but I quickly learned that he also knew just what to do and that I could trust him. I didn’t need my brother to lead the way this time. Spruce started to run when I said “alright,” the rope tightened, I kicked off with my ski, and we were off gliding along the thin layer of snow. He pulled me past all the camps on our side of the bay and I was easily able to turn him around and head back towards our camp and my mom. I did the same thing with Cedar, the other of the younger dogs, and she also knew exactly what to do. It was an amazing experience and I can’t wait to skijor with them again soon. I am so proud of my dogs and so glad to spend time with them outside together doing something we all enjoy.

Find your local experience at visitthunderbay.com

Play Hard, Reward Yourself Uncommon Baked Goods By Sidney Ulakovic

Now that you and your furry friend have worked up a chill and perhaps an appetite after all that skijoring, head over to Goods & Co. Market where you can warm up and enjoy something delicious together. If you didn’t know, Goods & Co. is dogfriendly, so your canine companions are welcome to join you on a leash; however Goods kindly asks that your dogs remain outside of the seating area surrounding Woodside Bar (no espresso martinis for Fido!). But don’t fret—you and your pet can pop by the aptly named Uncommon Baked Goods. These are not your average pastries; made with a modern and seasonal flair, the mouthwatering baked goods at Uncommon Baked Goods range from savoury to sweet, and boast unique flavour combinations and imaginative presentation. They recommend trying their signature pierogi bun, and don’t worry, they always keep dog treats on hand for pups. Pair a pastry with one of Uncommon’s specialty coffee beverages, all prepared with beans from St Paul Roastery, or something non-caffeinated if that suits you better, and enjoy that toasty, cosy feeling—you earned it! This feature is proudly sponsored by Visit Thunder Bay.

 Elliot Wheatley with Cedar and Spruce

 The skijoring harness and bungee line

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CityScene

With Steve Collins

EYE EYE TO

As told to Matt Prokopchuk, Photo by Lois Nuttall

or over a decade, Fort William First Nation’s Steve Collins was a major player on the international ski jumping scene. Collins was a three-time Olympian in the 1980s, and won numerous national and international championships— including what was, at the time, a hill record-breaking jump to win the 90-metre event at a World Cup competition in Lahti, Finland when he was 15. Today, Collins is behind efforts to revive the sport among local youth. We spoke with him about those efforts, what else he enjoys doing outdoors, and what his perfect start to a Saturday is. TW: You’ve continued to follow ski jumping—what do you think of Canada’s current athletes? SC: Today’s athletes, you’ve got a few [women] from our Canadian team, who are basically competing in Slovenia, coached by Slovenian coaches. They don’t really have any facilities here—other than Vancouver when we get the chance to actually have a winter event there, because they can’t keep it open just for training for these kids—so they’ve got to go to Europe in order to train and live there. And they’ve been winning world championships [like Alexandria Loutitt’s 2023 world junior championship title], but you didn’t hear much in Canada. It was just mind-blowing that this girl just won a world championship and there was no hip-hip-hooray. I didn’t think that was right—when you win something like that, you should be Female Athlete of the Year or something like that. It’s not

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Steve Collins at the site of the former Big Thunder National Training Centre

every day you win a world championship. TW: We’ve spoken with you before about your efforts to grow the sport again locally. How are those efforts coming along? SC: We’re going to try and get some funding and try to build something at Mount Baldy. You’ve got to build it at a ski area where you have people, so the kids are interested in trying the sport. You can’t just open up Big Thunder and expect kids to come out there, because there’s no skiing there. So we’re just in the process of trying to develop some small hills and do something like that [to] get the sport going again. We did make some snow jumps there at Mount Baldy and we had like 60 kids in a few little competitions, and it was pretty cool. The dream is to get some little jumps out there and try to get something rolling so these kids will have a chance to be in the Olympics and develop like that. TW: Where’s the most memorable place your career has taken you? SC: Oh, I don’t know

[laughs]. Finland, Czechoslovakia, Sweden. We did a lot of training in Europe—in Hinterzarten [Germany], all over Austria and Switzerland. There’s no one spot and because it’s such a long year, you have your good days and bad days, and there was no real special spot, but I think the ski flying championship in Czechoslovakia was probably one of the biggest. And winning a World Cup. And winning a world junior championship in Sweden was a pretty big highlight. It’s just stuff you always dreamed about when you were a kid and trying to get to that next stage of your life and hopefully it happens, and it happened [laughs]. TW: Away from work, what do you most enjoy doing? SC: I like going out in the bush and I like fishing, hunting—all my life, even when I was a kid, we had a house right below the ski area [the former Mount McKay Ski Area], and I went over and skied every day

after school. Lift operators would watch me jump and I’d just run over there after I’d get off the bus and just go and jump [laughs]. My dad really put a lot of time into helping me get into [trapping] and I used to do a lot of stuff like that when I was younger—I did a lot of trapping and a lot of fur, and stuff like that. I like going into the bush. It’s peaceful, and doing what he taught me to do was kind of my own time, even during World Cups and stuff like that, [it got me away from] the hustle and bustle, I guess [laughs]. But just learning the traditional stuff that we’re supposed to learn—I enjoyed that a lot though. TW: What’s your perfect start to a Saturday morning? SC: Every day I go to the gym, so that’s kind of a perfect start for me. It just keeps your mental health and your mind [well]. There’s a lot of issues with mental health in sport and stuff like that and that’s a key factor, [also for] a lot of kids and a lot of people with the

pandemic. There’s a lot of mental health issues that you should be focusing on. TW: Who is someone you admire? SC: When I started ski jumping, I used to look at these [magazines]—Slav [Kardas, Collins’s coach] used to bring us some magazines and there was this one jumper, his name was HansGeorg Aschenbach, and we used to get these clippings out of these articles and I just wanted to be that guy [laughs]. That’s all it was for me. Slav made you believe that you were going to be a world champion, that’s how he coached. We got developed through other coaches and we succeeded, but just telling that little guy the littlest things like that—it could change their thoughts and the way they want to proceed through a sport. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. To hear more, find the expanded interview on our Eye To Eye podcast on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, and more.

THIS IS GOING TO BE BIG! ÇA VA ÊTRE ÉNORME! Thunder Bay 2024 PARTNERED WITH / EN PARTENARIAT AVEC

EDUCATION / ÉDUCATION

VOLUNTEER SPONSOR / PARRAIN BÉNÉVOLE

SCOREKEEPING / TENUE DES SCORES

TRANSPORTATION / TRANSPORT

HYDRATION / HYDRATATION

TECH / TECHNOLOGIE

Ontario Winter Games

PRESENTED BY / PRÉSENTÉ PAR

Jeux d’hiver de l’Ontario

FUNDING PARTNERS / PARTENAIRES FINANCIERS

CREATIVE / CRÉATIF

HOST/ LIEU

ACTIVATION

HOSPITALITY / HOSPITALITÉ

MEDIA / MÉDIA

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This month, Thunder Bay will host the 2024 Ontario Winter Games presented by Hydro One, and we are ready and thrilled to be welcoming the province’s top young athletes, coaches and officials to our community.

Schedule Calendrier

February 16-19 / 16 au 19 février Badminton / Badminton Superior CVI February 17-19/ 17 au 19 février

These Games will be one of the largest events ever hosted in the city and this is an opportunity for us to come together and show these athletes and their families the Northern hospitality we are famous for.

Let the Games begin! Barry Streib, 2024 Ontario Winter Games Organizing Committee Chair

Ce mois-ci, Thunder Bay accueillera les Jeux d’hiver de l’Ontario de 2024 présentés par Hydro One, et nous sommes prêts et ravis d’accueillir les meilleurs jeunes athlètes, entraîneurs et officiels de la province dans notre communauté. Ces Jeux seront l’un des plus grands événements jamais organisés dans la ville et c’est une occasion pour nous de nous réunir et de montrer à ces athlètes et à leurs familles l’hospitalité du Nord pour laquelle nous sommes célèbres. La compétition se déroulera sur deux fins de semaine et cela signifie que nous organisons également deux événements de cérémonie d’ouverture - à la fois gratuits et ouverts à tous! J’encourage chacun d’entre vous à se joindre à nous lors des cérémonies d’ouverture et dans les gradins, à applaudir ces athlètes remarquables et à faire partie des compétitions palpitantes. Que les Jeux commencent! Barry Streib, président du comité organisateur des Jeux d’hiver de l’Ontario 2024

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WEEKEND 1

Competition will happen over two weekends and this means we are also hosting two opening ceremony events – both free and open to everyone! I encourage each of you to join us at opening ceremonies and in the stands, to cheer for these remarkable athletes and to be part of the thrilling competitions.

Cross-Country Skiing / Ski de fond Lappe Nordic Centre February 17-18 / 17 au 18 février Diving / Plongeon Canada Games Complex February 17-18 / 17 au 18 février Futsal / Futsal Lakehead University CJ Sanders Fieldhouse February 16-19 / 16 au 19 février Ringette / Ringuette Delaney Arena February 16-19 / 16 au 19 février Wrestling / Lutte Lakehead University Hanger February 17-18 / 17 au 18 février

Feburary 23-26 / 23 au 26 février 5 Pin Bowling / Jeu de 5-quilles Mario’s Bowl February 24-25 / 24 au 25 février Archery / Tir à l’arc Lakehead Archers February 24-26 / 24 au 26 février

WEEKEND 2

Artistic Swimming / Natation artistique Canada Games Complex February 24-26 / 24 au 26 février Biathlon / Biathlon Kamview Nordic Centre February 24-25 / 24 au 25 février Curling (Four’s & Mixed) / Curling (quatre pieds & mixte) Fort William Curling Club February 24-26 / 24 au 26 février Hockey / Hockey Fort William Gardens February 23-26 / 23 au 26 février Fencing / Escrime Confederation College Wellness Centre February 24-26 / 24 au 26 février

SPORT SPONSOR / PARRAINAGE SPORTIF

MEET PACHI AT THE GAMES!

PACHI is the head cheerleader of Games Ontario events, all of which showcase Ontario athletes competing in sports at the Thunder Bay 2024 Winter Games. PACHI also supports the athletes and coaches on Team Ontario at the Canada Games. PACHI is a porcupine and like other porcupines, has a visual impairment and difficulty seeing people and objects that are far away. His white hat and wristbands feature the Games Ontario logo, modelled on the iconic Ontario trillium and highlighted with red, green, and blue: Red represents “inspiration” and Team Ontario’s official colour Green represents “opportunity” Blue represents “community” Meet Pachi at the Opening Ceremonies!

RENCONTREZ PACHI AUX JEUX!

PACHI est la mascotte des événements des Jeux de l’Ontario, qui mettent tous en vedette les athlètes ontariens qui participent aux Jeux d’hiver 2024 à Thunder Bay. PACHI soutient également les athlètes et les entraîneurs de l’équipe de l’Ontario aux Jeux du Canada. PACHI est un porc-épic et, comme les autres porcs-épics, il souffre d’une déficience visuelle et a du mal à voir les personnes et les objets éloignés. Son chapeau blanc et ses bracelets portent le logo des Jeux de l’Ontario, inspiré du trille emblématique de l’Ontario et rehaussé de rouge, de vert et de bleu : Le rouge représente « l’inspiration » et la couleur officielle de l’équipe de l’Ontario Le vert représente « les possibilités » Le bleu représente « la collectivité » Rencontrez Pachi lors de la cérémonie d’overture!

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Kick Off the Games! Experience the magic of the Games at TWO FREE OPENING CEREMONIES events! EVERYONE WELCOME!!

Coup d’envoi des Jeux! Découvrez la magie des Jeux lors de DEUX CÉRÉMONIES D’OUVERTURE GRATUITES! TOUT LE MONDE EST BIENVENU!!

Friday, February 16 & Friday, February 23 Fort William Historical Park Festivities begin at 5:00 pm Athletes’ Parade begins at 6:30 pm Arrive early to: FREE • Meet Pachi PARKING! • Buy Official Merchandise • Visit Sponsors • Participate in activities • Enjoy FREE concert featuring The Lockyer Boys!

Vendredi 16 février et vendredi 23 février Parc historique du Fort William Les festivités commencent à 17h00 STATIONNEMENT Défilé des athletes à 18h30 GRATUIT! Arrivez tôt pour: • rencontrer Pachi • acheter la merchandise officielle • visitez nos parrainaires • participer à des activités • Regardez un concert GRATUIT mettant en vedette les Lockyer Boys Les cérémonies auront lieu à l’extérieur. Il y aura plusieurs bâtiments chauffés ouverts et des stations de réchauffement sur place, mais il est conseillé à tout le monde de s’habiller chaudement pour profiter pleinement de l’événement.

The ceremonies will be held outdoors. There will be several heated buildings open and warming stations on site, but it is advised everyone dress warmly to fully enjoy the event. SAN

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Share any photos and video you capture during the Games - #TBayGames2024 Partagez toutes les photos et vidéos que vous capturezpendant les Jeux - #TBayGames2024

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Justin Allec

CityScene

 Sledding fun at previous winter carnivals

The Annual Current River Winter Carnival By Justin Allec

he neighborhood of Current River isn’t isolated, per se, so much as set apart both by Boulevard Lake and the large swaths of surrounding green space. It’s only a small chunk of the city, but its easily walkable streets are vital and welcoming. A large part of that semblance of togetherness is due to the prominent role of the Current River Community Centre. Re-established in 1990 in its present location, the centre offers programming and initiatives for all ages throughout the year. Arguably the biggest event of the calendar year is the winter carnival—a celebration of the outdoors and community that, this year, begins on Friday, February 9. Annual events are great ways for communities to reconnect, and the winter carnival has been a neighborhood staple for decades. Patsy Baker, the centre’s hall manager and a life-long resident of Current River, remembers winter carnivals

from when she was young. “People would arrive on their skidoos,” she says. “There used to be a lot of different activities—on the rinks they’d be barrel jumping, or lumberjack games like log-sawing or nail-driving.” It wasn’t just the carnival that looked different back then, either. In 1990, Current River underwent a neighborhood overhaul. Thanks to the past efforts of the ward’s longtime city councillor Richard (Dick) Waddington, the old Strathcona Community Centre was removed to make way for Claude E. Garton Public School. The intended area for the new centre was swampy and had to be drained. Once completed, the new centre showed that while the activities may have changed, the carnival is still a chance for residents to shake off their winter hibernation— Baker reports that each year the event draws more than 1,000 people. This year’s celebrations begin with

floor when Radar & the Rockets take the community centre’s stage. Sunday opens casually, with a pancake breakfast (free with your ticket to the Storm game) and drawing begins from the penny auction. It’s a busy weekend, but a great chance to reconnect with the community. For all event details, please follow the Current River Community Centre Facebook page.

 The Current River Community Centre Adrian Lysenko

Winter Vitality

a shuffleboard/crib tournament on the Friday, and the carnival swings into full operation on Saturday. The community centre will be open, offering an ongoing penny auction, concessions, bake sales by local churches, face-painting and craft tables for kids, and outdoor activities like snowshoeing, a fishpond, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. In the evening, there are the options of attending a Current River Storm hockey game in the nearby arena, competing in a two-end curling tournament, or shaking up the dance

The Walleye

CityScene

WALL SPACE

 Ten thousand square feet of space is dedicated to three greenhouse zones, with an additional 2,000 square feet for a workshop/gallery space. LED lights can grow plants 24 hours a day. Fans create fog to help keep humidity up, and the temperatures range between 60 to 75°C, depending on what is growing in each zone.

City of Thunder Bay's S Centennial Botanical Conservatory Renewal and Expanding Spaces

Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photos by Jack Barten  Sometimes the most magical moments in the conservatory are the smallest moments, like the unexpected blooming of a crown-of-thorns (Euphorbia milii), a lovely succulent plant native to Madagascar.

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ince 1967, the Lord & Burnham-designed Thunder Bay Centennial Botanical Conservatory has housed— and continues to house—a huge variety of tropical plants and cacti, including a rare cactus collection that boasts 150 species. In addition to being home to about 400 different species of tropical plants, the conservatory also runs a native natural program out of their newly built 12,000-square-foot greenhouse/workshop facility, which

was completed this past summer. It is in this space where all the native plants required for the city’s 150 garden beds—like the ones found at Hillcrest, Vickers, and Chapples—are seeded, grown, and maintained. “I like working here because I get to be involved in so many aspects of horticulture,” says conservatory lead hand and curator Zora Cava. “It’s not just annuals or perennials, native or tropical plants. I also get to be involved in germinating, garden

 The conservatory’s cactus collection is very rare and includes 600 different plants, from towering mature rock cacti to six different varieties of agave.

CityScene

 Conservatory lead hand and curator Zora Cava stands in the new state-of-the-art production greenhouse adjacent to the tropical house. About 50,000 plants can be housed inside at once, and another 15 to 20,000 plants in the enlarged outdoor cold frame.

 Water (about 20,000 litres) moves through the new filtration system, feeding all the growing plants and helping to irrigate the ground outdoors. The conservatory also works closely with the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA), growing specific plants for the low impact development (LID) vegetation project, which helps filter rainwater and reduces the amount of water entering storm sewers.

maintenance, and other areas.” This summer, the next phase of the conservatory’s renewal will focus on improving the tropical house and event spaces. It is estimated to take about a year to complete those renovations. The hope is that repairs and replacing aging infrastructure, combined with new expansions, will increase public use, create more workshop and event opportunities, and grow community programming and connections.  Brooders are germination chambers that use spectrums of light, growing mats, and humidity to germinate seeds. “It has to be 90% humidity for the seeds to germinate,” explains Cava.

 The tropical house is a lovely gathering space, especially when you want to escape freezing temperatures. It’s open and free to the public every day except major holidays. Wander the paths, relax on a bench, toss a coin in the pond, or simply come to read a book or sketch—or come after dark for a completely different experience amongst the greenery, shadows, nighttime scents, and twinkling lights.  The Conservatory uses about 250 compressed bales of soil in a year.

The Walleye

CityScene

 The Sutherland brothers sparring at the gym

 Underground Gym founder Peter Panetta

Building an Underground Family The Underground Gym’s 25-Year Journey of Hope and Compassion Story by Nancy Saunders, Photos by Shannon Lepere

n the heart of the city, a remarkable journey of community service has unfolded over the past 25 years, led by the passionate and unconventional Peter Panetta. What started as a boxing program has transformed into the Underground Gym and Youth Centre—a haven for hundreds of children and families seeking support, mentorship, and a sense of belonging. The Underground Gym has faced  Dumbells

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significant challenges over the years. It began in a church basement on Thunder Bay’s north side and moved across town a year later in 2003; after many years in that spot, a fire in a neighbouring building in 2019 and resulting water damage meant that the Underground Gym had to find a new location, or shut its doors for good. After over a year of searching for a space—and with

staggering community support—the Underground Gym moved into its current home on Victoria Avenue East. Panetta reminisces about the roots of the Underground Gym, saying that “it did initially start with a fitness aspect. Of course, that’s the name: Underground Gym.” Beyond just fitness, the gym provided a unique opportunity for young boxers like Kurtis Thompson who began boxing there when he was 17. “It influenced my life quite a bit,” he says. “Because where I grew up, in a rough neighborhood, a lot of my friends and a lot of the people my age were getting into trouble. And I never really got into trouble because I was just focused. I had somewhere to go, something positive to do with my friends.” “The Underground Gym has been a big part of my life for 20 years,” Thompson continues. “I moved away for three years, I came back, and it’s still part of my life. It’s a big part of the community around here.” He continues to box and recently achieved his coaching certification through Panetta, which Thompson says will empower him to train others

and contribute more actively to the boxing community. His connection to the Underground Gym has reached a new generation, as Thompson now takes his own children there. "I bring [them] there at least once or twice a week. They go and play with their friends," Thompson says. Panetta says that over the years, the evolution of the Underground Gym has mirrored the growing needs of the community. As the gym transformed into a youth centre, he recalls that “some of the younger ones, the youth, were starting to bring their little ones and the younger ones weren’t so much interested in working out or boxing.” Responding to those evolving needs, music, painting, and other activities were added to ensure the centre catered to a broad spectrum of interests. The new location includes a new kitchen, a computer lab, spaces for art and music, a tutoring room, a hairdressing salon, a gym with equipment and, of course, a boxing ring. Numerous donations of materials, supplies, labour, and time continue to help the Underground Gym promote healthy lifestyles and provide free activities and meals to children and youth.

CityScene As the Underground Gym continued to grow, however, so did the challenges. The centre was increasingly being accessed by people without homes and those struggling with addiction, leading to growing demands on resources and time. Incidents of self-harm, overdoses, and racial attacks in the community were not uncommon. As Panetta reflects on the changing landscape of youth struggles,

particularly the rise in drug-related issues, he acknowledges facing burnout. But despite hardships, his determination to provide a safe space for children and youth in need seems inexhaustible. Thompson underscores the significance and broad impact the Underground Gym has had on the community. “If the Underground Gym wasn’t there in that neighborhood— the Simpson-Fort William

neighborhood—there wouldn't be as many positive things happening,” he says. “It’s not just a gym, it’s a youth centre and everybody gets along. There’s nothing but good vibes between everybody.” The Underground Gym and Youth Centre is more than its name suggests; it’s about building a community and a family, and offering hope to those who need it most. Through trials and triumphs,

it has persisted for 25 years through a passionate desire to make a difference in the lives of Thunder Bay’s youth. "We have a lot of support,” Panetta says. “People believe in what we’re doing.” Visit undergroundgym.ca to learn more.

 Brothers Zander and Chris Sutherland

The Walleye

CityScene

 Tim Van Reenen

 Mya Van Reenen

Family Ties

Local Father, Daughter Team Up to Build Outdoor Saunas By Matt Prokopchuk

hen Tim Van Reenen’s daughter Mya was looking for summer work last year, her father suggested a cooperative project—one that would not only earn Mya some money, but set her up with a whole host of practical skills. “She needed a summer job and […] she was looking around, wasn’t having a lot of luck, and I said ‘well, why don’t we build something together?’” Tim Van Reenen says. Knowing the demand for outdoor pod-style saunas (and, he says, hearing complaints from others about some of the mass-produced kits), the two spent last summer building the distinctive arch-shaped structures, with their eyes on selling them as a sort of offshoot of Tim’s business, Total Climate Sheet Metal Company, which installs and maintains furnaces, air conditioners, and other HVAC systems.

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Tim says the saunas feature thick walls using 2 x 6 studs, meaning there’s room for heavier R22 insulation. The floors are also insulated and have one-piece rubber membranes, which rise six inches up the sauna’s walls. A shingled roof, cedar floating floor, and cedar walls cap off the design—Mya was responsible for the cedar work, Tim says. “It was nice,” she says of the summer job, which she took to quickly. “It wasn’t too difficult because my dad told me pretty much what to do and it was kind of repetitive, but […] we were outside, so it was good.” Tim and Mya have built two saunas so far—one of which they’ve sold; the other is being kept as a display model. Mya says she’s used the summer of work to become familiar with tools of the trade, such as nail guns and miter saws, as well as

 The Van Reenens’s pod saunas

basic carpentry skills and shingling. And that quick learning was not lost on her dad either. “It was great, I was really proud of her,” Tim says, adding that Mya would sometimes work alone when he was at his day job. “We’d get there in the morning and we’d go over what we’d have to do and she’d work at it throughout the day—maybe I’d get a phone call here and then, but yeah, she got it.” Mya says home repairs and real estate are already interests of hers. Tim says they’re planning on growing the business next summer, which will ultimately be determined by the level of interest from people

pre-ordering the saunas. But he says he’s already enjoyed the journey so far. “Super great, I loved it,” he says. “I was just proud of her, the work she did, and working outside in the sun, enjoying the weather, and it was a fun project.” “We look forward to doing it again next summer.” To learn more, view the display model, or to place an order, you can contact Tim Van Reenen at Total Climate Sheet Metal Company at 807-621-5672.

CityScene AL GO LOC R E D N U H T TRY N U BAY CO ET MARK

Cream of the Crop Collective

Story by Matt Prokopchuk, Photos by Emily Turner

ne of the owners of the Cream of the Crop Collective says the idea for the business and the three other women with whom she wanted to work came to her while she was driving to work with her son. “This little movie […] played in my head and it was of the four of us at this little shop,” Lea Fonso says, referring to her sisters Julie Creamer, Jane Creamer, and Lené Tycholas. “It was so cute, like it had just such nice stuff in it, and literally, this image was rolling through my head.” The business, which started just over a year ago and has been in the Thunder Bay Country Market since October, in addition to having space at a number of other local markets and sales, curates themed gift baskets with products from artisans and small-scale creators from across Canada, including local ones. Fonso says she texted the others with her idea and “no sooner did I send the text, then my phone was buzzing left, right, and centre: let’s do it, oh my gosh, that sounds so fun.” Currently, the business is offering a number of themed collections, such as Spa Lover, Hair Lover, the Unwinder, and others. The Unwinder, for

instance, includes products designed to help one relax, such as curated teas (from International House of Tea), unique mugs, hot and cold handmade pads, socks, a blanket, and air freshening spray. “We all kind of have our own [...] hobbies or likes,” Fonso says. “So we’ve kind of taken themes from our own personalities and collected them and made them into collections that you can purchase.” The business owners did a few pop-up sessions at the Thunder Bay Country Market throughout the summer, Julie Creamer says, adding that “we just really loved the environment there and the atmosphere.” Creamer says the other vendors were also really welcoming and excited about what they were doing, which added to the overall appeal of moving in full time once they found out the market was seeking new permanent vendors. “I think we’re all really happy that we did [move in],” she says. “Especially leading up to Christmas—like I said, it’s just the atmosphere and the environment and the people there are really welcoming and encouraging and it’s been a lot of fun.”

 Cream of the Crop Collective's Jane Creamer, Lea Fonso, Julie Creamer, and Lené Tycholas

For more information, check out Cream of the Crop Collective at creamofthecropcollective.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/creamofthecropcollective, or Instagram @creamofthecropcollective.

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CityScene

The Walleye editorial assistant Sidney Ulakovic takes part in one of Alicia Furness's dance classes

Dance for Every Body Introduction to Burlesque with Roxy Horror Story by Sidney Ulakovic, Photo by Emily Turner

“I

sn’t that like, old-timey stripping?” my partner asked me, seemingly equal parts concerned and intrigued, upon learning I’d be taking a burlesque class this month. In short, yes, it is—as he put it so eloquently—“old-timey stripping,” and I couldn’t think of a better way to break out of my routine and, better yet, challenge myself this year, seeing as I don’t think writers have garnered a reputation for being great at sexy-dancing. But we can change this narrative, one brave writer at a time. As bold as I felt enrolling in the class, I’ll admit that trying something new can be intimidating. And as my classmates and I took our places in the studio, confronted with our soon-to-be-attempting-to-dance reflections in the mirror, I certainly felt a little intimidated. My only previous dance experience consisted of high school gym class, which felt like some weird form of torture, and what may have passed as dancing at

nightclubs (after doing more shots than I care to disclose). The small class size, however, was a comfort, and as our instructor Alicia Furness (they/she), who performs as Roxy Horror, began to introduce the class, I felt those butterflies in my belly begin to flutter away. Furness’s energy could not be more perfect for leading a class like this. If I only had one word to describe Furness, it would be fun. Furness fell into the world of burlesque (among other dance forms), and eventually began performing at festivals and teaching after a series of coincidences seemed to fatefully point them there. “I remember walking up the stairs [to the stage] and my heart was beating out of my chest,” Furness recalls of their first performance. “And then people are so excited to see you take your clothes off, that when I was coming back down those stairs, I was like ‘I need to do that again.’ I was hooked.”

As Furness introduced us to the foundations of burlesque—you know, bumping, grinding, and quivering— they encouraged us to check in with ourselves throughout the class, both physically and emotionally, and move in a way that felt right for our bodies, giving options for different ways to approach the choreography based on our comfort level. If you want to be more dainty, go for it. Want to make your choreo as raunchy as possible? Be their guest. Now you may be thinking, Do I have to get naked? Furness’s classes are a strip-safe environment, so if you do want to let it all hang out as classes go on, you’re more than welcome to, but there’s also no pressure if you’d rather figure out the choreo fully clothed. Unless you’re extraordinarily comfortable with yourself and your body, I can say that, as someone with no dance experience, you may feel kind of ridiculous. And that’s okay. “I danced as a child, but it wasn’t a great experience for me inhabiting a larger body,” Furness says. “I know the feeling of kind of being the worst person in class— feeling like you’re the only one who’s not getting it, feeling like you

quite literally don’t fit in.” Being in Furness’s class, it’s evident that they approach teaching from a desire to change this experience for others; just looking around the room, you’ll see students who are all different ages, sizes, and gender identities. “I really genuinely believe dance and movement are for everyone, regardless of your experience, or your body, or your disability status, or your gender,” Furness says. “I just want dance to be accessible to everyone so I make it accessible.” And accessible it most certainly is. With Furness’s instruction, learning has been the easiest part, as they make getting the hang of the movement highly approachable for a beginner. The greatest challenge thus far has been leaning into that feeling of ridiculousness (I am, after all, still a writer with two left feet), and, with each class, fully trusting—and even starting to feel—that the further I lean, the more empowering it is. Want to try burlesque for yourself? Follow @roxyhorrorburlesque on Instagram and stay tuned for class announcements.

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CityScene

Stuff We Like

Don’t Go Baroquing My Heart Tickets 1

For Date Night By Kelsey Raynard

Here at The Walleye, we love love. And while Valentine’s Day has admittedly become another commercialized holiday driven by consumerism, there is nothing wrong with dedicating time to celebrate a special person or relationship in your life. Whether or not you choose to commemorate this on February 14, planning a fun and unique date night offers the opportunity to break away from your regular routine and create new memories to cherish with someone you love. Here is Stuff We Like for Date Night. 8

Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra St. Paul’s United Church, 349 Waverley Street If your significant other is a music lover, treat them to a concert they will remember with tickets to the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. On February 9, you can attend their Don’t Go Baroquing My Heart concert, featuring Liesel Deppe performing Vivaldi’s Piccolo Concerto, at St. Paul’s United Church. Visit the TBSO website for their full concert agenda.

$40/ticket

2 One Night Getaway Rose Valley Lodge 56 Rose Valley Road Romantic staycation, anyone? Rose Valley Lodge’s one-night getaway package includes an overnight stay in one of their rustic cabins (whirlpool tub included!), a home-cooked fivecourse dinner, and cosy breakfast served by Swiss hotelier Markus Hofmann and his wife Deborah. Located in South Gillies, Rose Valley Lodge provides the perfect backdrop for your next date night.

$310/night (double occupancy) 3 Wine & Chocolate Pairing

Darren McChristie

Cardinal Chocolate Co. 16 Cumberland Street South Sure, wine and chocolates may be a bit of a Valentine’s cliché at this point, but what this pair lacks in originality, it makes up for in timelessness and deliciousness. Treat your special someone to a night of artisanal chocolate made by Cardinal Chocolate Co. From their homemade truffles to their curated wine selection, Cardinal’s chocolate bar has all the ingredients for a spectacular date night.

$Various

4 Pottery Painting The Hive Studio & Espresso Bar 71 Algoma Street South Looking for a new and creative activity to do with your partner? The Hive Studio & Espresso Bar is a paintyour-own-pottery studio; you choose from their always-changing selection of over 100 pottery pieces, spend the night painting your own unique designs, and pick up the finished pieces 10 to 14 days later! While you paint, try one of their delicious seasonal coffee drinks or a fun cocktail/mocktail.

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$Various

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5 Game Night Carlito’s Cafe 301 Simpson Street Carlito’s Cafe offers all you competitive couples an excellent opportunity to throw down over their impressive selection of board games. Best of all, there is no table fee to come down and try out the games on their demo shelf; just grab yourself a coffee, a panini, or a sweet treat, and enjoy your date night (just no breaking up over a lost game of Catan, OK?).

$Various

6 Couples Massage Pure Salon Day Spa 820 Red River Road If you and your significant other are juggling crazy schedules, work stress, and all the other fun trappings of modern life, then worrying about date night is the last thing you want to do. Unwind together instead with a couples massage from Pure Salon Day Spa and you will leave feeling calm, carefree, and connected.

$120/30 minute massage

7 Golf Simulator On The Links 1181 Golf Links Road Take your partner to some of the best golf courses in the world without ever leaving town at On The Links. Whether you’re a couple who golfs together every summer or are simply looking for a unique date night, their virtual golf simulator provides an excellent opportunity to get active together. Bonus: Lento Wood Fired Pizza is located inside On The Links for a delicious way to end off your round of golf.

$35–45/hour

8 Road Trip Grand Marais visitcookcounty.com Get out of town for your next date night and head to Grand Marais, Minn.! Located 130 kilometres southwest of Thunder Bay, this North Shore harbour town has countless fun things to do: explore the many hiking trails along the coast of Lake Superior, grab a pint at Gunflint Tavern, browse the local shops downtown, eat your fill at Hungry Hippie Tacos, and stay overnight at one of their quaint boutique hotels or B&Bs.

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CityScene

 The starting line for the 2023 Sleeping Giant Loppet 13-and-under competitive 8-kilometre race

A Local Winter Tradition

Sleeping Giant Loppet Preparing for 45th Celebration Story by Matt Prokopchuk, Photos by Anna Buske

undreds of cross-country skiers are scheduled to take to the trails the first Saturday in March—weather permitting—to compete, test their skills, or just enjoy a late winter day in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park at the 45th Sleeping Giant Loppet. The annual races (they were cancelled in 2021 due to COVID19 and returned a year later in a modified form before returning to normal last year) is a tentpole event in the area, attracting skiers not only from across Northwestern Ontario, but other locales, including from across the Canada-U.S. border. Coordinator Peter Gallagher says the event draws everyone from competitive skiers to families. “When you stand at the start line and […] see kids four years old or parents with kids in pulks [Nordic sleds], there’s that end of it—they can enjoy the event to the same extent as somebody who’s an elite skier that may participate in this event and go on to represent the country at the Olympics,” he says.

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While organizers are still closely monitoring the weather and hoping for more snow to ensure the course will be up to snuff, this year’s loppet is slated to include races of eight, 20, 35, and 50 kilometres. Two 20-kilometre races are scheduled— one for skate-skiing and one for classic—while three 50-kilometre races—featuring skate, classic, and skiathlon—are planned. The 35-kilometre event is timed, but with no awards; the eight-kilometre race is to feature prizes for the first three male and female finishers aged 13 and under. Gallagher, who has been involved with the event in one capacity or another for 43 years, says that the loppet traces its history back to the late 1970s when a group of Lakehead University students travelled to Ottawa to take part in the Canadian Ski Marathon, a multiday cross-country skiing event that its website claims is the oldest in North America, and returned wanting to see something similar in Thunder Bay. And while the local loppet has

had several names over the decades, it remains a favourite on the local calendar. “It’s a joyous event to be out there [for] when you see people accomplish whatever it is that they’ve got in mind for the day, whether it’s just a chance to enjoy the day of skiing with their friends or to challenge themselves,” he says. “And you’re always at the finish line watching people with great big smiles on their face.”

The Sleeping Giant Loppet is scheduled for March 2. For updates and more information, go to sleepinggiantloppet.ca.

 Katie Weaver and Huntington McNab race in last year’s 20-kilometre race

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Music

The Return of Flamenco Caravan Local Favourites to Perform with TBSO

Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photo by Lorraine Agostino

ith a new album on the horizon and new arrangements by highly acclaimed arranger Charles Cozens, Thunder Bay’s Flamenco Caravan is firmly poised for a much-anticipated comeback concert with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. “We will be playing some classics with some of our new stuff,” says lead singer Susanna DiGiuseppe. “It’s a nice way to say hello again.” The band has been on hiatus for a few years, after the passing of bass player Greg McIntosh and drummer Jim Differ (DiGiuseppe’s late husband). “It’s very emotional for me,” admits DiGiuseppe. “Many of the new songs are inspired by Jim, but they are also very universal. It’s all about life, the excitement of music, creating, and community.” Last spring, the TBSO invited Flamenco Caravan to play with them, under resident conductor FrédéricAlexandre Michaud. Original band members include Flamenco guitarists Esteban Figueroa and Tony Agostino. Well-known Thunder Bay musician Dan Zadkovich joins the band on bass—he also contributed to the recordings of past albums, and Agostino’s son Jamie joins the band on drums. “Jamie was a mentee of

Flamenco Caravan’s Esteban Figueroa, Tony Agostino, and Susanna DiGiuseppe

Jim’s,” explains DiGiuseppe. “He was a most passionate kid and after spending time together, they became grand friends. Age never mattered to Jim; it was about the equal level of passion for the music.” Although Jamie lives in the Toronto area, having stayed after graduating from Humber College, and Figueroa lives in British Columbia, the band has been able to share ideas and create new songs remotely, sending

recordings back and forth via email. “We’re making it work with a lot of air miles involved,” laughs DiGiuseppe. The TBSO concert is an opportunity to share a bit of the past—there are arrangements from when Flamenco Caravan previously played with the orchestra—and a taste of what’s coming up. The plan is to release a new Flamenco Caravan album (their fifth) before the end of the year. Style elements

will continue to fuse Flamenco with jazz, folk, and pop. “The Caravan is an amalgamation of all of our influences,” says DiGiuseppe. Flamenco Caravan plays March 1 at 7:30 pm at the Italian Cultural Centre as part of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s Fusion Heat concert. Visit flamencocaravan.ca for more info.

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Music

Nick Loyer, Jay Flynn, Jay Trépanier

Leverage for Mountains Indie Folk Trio Plays Thunder Bay This Month Story by Kris Ketonen, Photo by Phil Walker

t’ll be an evening of storytelling and harmony when Leverage for Mountains takes the stage in Thunder Bay this month. The Gatineau-based folk trio—made up of Nick Loyer, Jay Trépanier, and Jay Flynn— has been together for about six years. Their first release, an EP titled The Essence Project, came in 2016, followed up by Love Out of the Dark in 2022. The band’s beginnings, however, stretch back a bit farther, to the moment that Loyer and Trépanier met through a mutual friend about nine years ago. “He was full of talent, and I was really interested in writing songs,” Loyer says. “'I was like, ‘You know what? I should write a song for you.’ We went off from that point. We started writing songs together instead, and throughout

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the years, we started performing.” They then brought in Flynn on percussion, and things took off from there. Loyer says the energy and storytelling folk music offers is what drew him to the genre. “I'm the main songwriter in the band, and what pushed me in that direction was my influences,” he says, adding that he really enjoys groups like Passenger and Mumford and Sons. “I just love that energy,” Loyer continues. “I love singing stories, telling stories, and connecting with people. Plus the community, the folk community, is amazing.” Anyone who checks out the band’s Thunder Bay show will be in for a harmonic treat. “When you listen to the album, it’s more pop-oriented, but there’s more harmonies when you come and see

us live,” Loyer says. “When we do a live show, we want to showcase even more the harmonies and the voices, the individual voices.” And, Loyer adds, fans will have more original Leverage for Mountains music to look forward to, with a new album in the works. A release date hasn’t yet been decided, but Loyer says it can be expected in the next year or so. Leverage for Mountains plays McGillivray’s Landing at Fort William Historical Park on February 10, part of the Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society’s season. For more information, visit leverageformountains.com.

Experience the thrill at Nipigon Ice Fest on March 2! Clinics for all levels, guest speakers, games, gear swap, and a raffle await. Volunteer-run since '86. Photo by Aric Fishman - Outdoor Skills And Thrills'

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Music

Three Sports Songs By Gord Ellis

“We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions” Queen

t’s hard to know if Freddie Mercury knew this double-headed rocker/power ballad would become the anthem it has for so many teams and events. Apparently, the song was built on the audience response following a concert in England, during which the audience sang "You’ll Never Walk Alone” to the band. What Mercury and Queen ultimately arranged and recorded is the greatest of the classic rock sports anthems. The drum beat beginning of “We Will Rock You” is tailor-made for hockey rinks and football stadiums, the drums reverberating through the cavernous spaces and filling them up. Where “We Will Rock You” is a defiant fist-pumper, its second act, “We Are the Champions,” takes on an entirely different mood. The song is a prayer that builds to a manifesto, celebrating the hard worker who made it happen, and believed it could happen, despite the odds. And bad mistakes I’ve made a few I’ve had my share of sand Kicked in my face But I’ve come through If Mercury and Queen had only ever performed these two songs, they would still be legends. Yet there were many, many other great songs from the band. This was simply the high-water mark.

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G BURNINE TO TH SKY

“Big League” Tom Cochrane

ockey anthems make up a quite small music genre, although there have been some fascinating songs written about the game (more on that in a bit). Yet it is the rare hockey game that doesn’t feature at least a snippet of Tom Cochrane’s bittersweet anthem “Big League.” Cochrane tells a very familiar story of the northern hockey kid chasing the NHL dream. I don’t think many people reading this column haven’t experienced this or known a family or two living the hockey life. Cochrane nails it, and he doesn’t miss many details. Not many ways out of this cold northern town You work in the mill and get laid in the ground And if you’re going to jump it will be with the game Real fast and tough is the only clear lane to the big league Cochrane’s song takes a tragic turn in the third verse, when the kid ends up in a horrific highway accident. It’s not a Hollywood ending, but it also captures the hard realities of chasing the dream. Yet “Big League” would not work nearly as well if it didn’t swell into a jubilant chorus, and the “whoa oh” that Cochrane lets rip like a wild cat. In a hockey rink, with a Tim’s in your hand and the smell of cigarette smoke wafting through the front doors, the song hits hard. And it’s got the power to ignite a crowd between periods or puck drops. As a sidebar, the greatest and least famous hockey song of all time is “Hit Somebody” by Warren Zevon. It ploughs similar ground as the Cochrane tune but is funny and weirder. Much like our national game. Check it out.

“Centerfield” John Fogerty

ot many songwriters have written as many classic rock bangers as John Fogerty. It’s almost silly just how many killer songs Fogerty cranked out during his time in Creedence Clearwater Revival. Fogerty is revered and celebrated for good reason. However, his solo song “Centerfield” may be his most familiar song to middle America due to its connection with baseball. The song is upbeat, spare, and sounds like a warm summer day at the ballpark. And, once again, the determined spirit of the underdog who knows they have what it takes. You got a beat up glove, a homemade bat And a brand new pair of shoes You know I think it’s time to give this game a ride Just to hit the ball and touch ‘em all, a moment in the sun It’s a-gone and you can tell that one goodbye Fogerty catches the mystery, magic, and the historical aura of baseball in a way that reverberates to this day. And yes, the way his lean guitar line circles around the song is like a spitball. Sports songs don’t get much better.

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Music

Hot Girl Music to Cry To Local Alternative Artist Gaining Momentum

Story by Sidney Ulakovic, Photo by Hanna Koester

“I

To stay up to date on future releases, you can follow PINK IVY on Instagram @pinkivy.music. “11:11” is available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music.

never wanted to do it if I couldn’t fully do it,” says emerging local alternative artist PINK IVY, who went from recording songs in her bedroom to now largely recording from her recently opened studio, Nimbus Recording Studio. With the release of “11:11” in January, marking her fifth single drop in the last year and a half, and a debut performance at The Industry this past summer, it’s fair to say that PINK IVY is all in as she continues to put in hours at the studio packaging together an arsenal of songs to be released this upcoming year. PINK IVY is the musical project of local tattoo and visual artist Hanna Koester, who says she’s always wanted to pursue music but found it sat on the back burner as she explored other creative outlets. As with many other creatives, she was able to revisit her passion for music during the series of COVID-19 related lockdowns, when she started piecing together her first release, “Wolves,” a strong debut that encapsulated what people could expect from PINK IVY in subsequent releases— atmospheric trap beats, heavy bass, and lyrics exploring inner demons that foil her high,

floating vocals. “Everything I’ve done has been versatile,” she says. The single “Like I Died,” released last October, leans into trap bravado, while her latest release “11:11” forefronts an acoustic guitar as we find her at her most vulnerable lyrically. At the core of each release is an identifiable style that bridges alt-pop and trap, which she credits local producer Matt Hornblower and Toronto-based producer Mitch Maidens of H8 Music for being able to curate alongside her as she wraps each song together with songwriting and an aesthetic that’s distinctly PINK IVY. “I like to write in metaphors,” she says of her songwriting. “I love being able to paint a visual in a different medium.” It’s these visuals she paints, from the soundscape and imagery in her songs to the cover art and costumes, that make her, as an artist, all the more compelling. With a new year laid out before her, PINK IVY plans to maintain her momentum in the studio, with her sights set on releasing a music video and EP later this year as she works out dates and venues for shows sometime in the near future.

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Justine Auger Section Trumpet, TBSO

Music TBSO E PROFIL

By Kris Ketonen Birthplace: Ottawa Instrument: Trumpet Age you started to study music: About 13 How long have you been with TBSO: In her first season What’s on personal playlist: Taylor Swift, Shostakovich bit of school band disappointment led to a fruitful musical career for the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s Justine Auger. Auger, who plays trumpet for the TBSO, had a different instrument in mind when she began playing back in grade 7. “I actually really wanted to play the flute,” Auger says. “But when I got there, it wasn’t available anymore.

Everybody else picked the flute. The only instrument left that was small enough for me, because I’m kind of a small woman, was trumpet.” Auger credits her band teachers with encouraging her to continue playing. “If you watch me in the TBSO now, […] especially in a pops concert, I’ll always be bopping around and dancing along to the songs,” Auger says. “I always did that from the very beginning. I would be in jazz band and I would be dancing in the back row.” Her teachers noticed that, and asked Auger if she’d considered going further with her career, given that she was so interested in the trumpet. “That gave me the push,” she says. “So I put a lot of work in that summer,

and then the next year I came back and I was first chair.” “It could have been any instrument, but trumpet is very fun,” she adds. Auger would go on to ear n her bachelor’s degree at the University of Manitoba, and then it was on to Indiana University for her master’s degree. As to what attracted her to playing in an orchestra, Auger says it’s the discipline involved. “I like that it does have to be perfect,” she says. “It’s perfectly imperfect, obviously, there’s always gonna be mistakes, but with jazz, it’s so different. There’s a whole different set of knowledge for jazz, but with classical, it’s just really about honing in on the fundamentals of the instrument.”

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Music

Silver Sounds

Thunder Bay Seniors Choir Hitting All the Right Notes By Matt Prokopchuk

he choral director of Thunder Bay’s Silver Sounds Choir says fellowship and an appreciation of singing is at the heart of the ensemble and those it comprises. “Music has its own therapeutic elements to it, and I think that it has helped a lot of people, especially seniors,” Diana Hannaford-Wilcox says. “I’m so impressed with how hard they work at all of their songs.” Hannaford-Wilcox, who took over the reins of the Silver Sounds Choir about five years ago, says during that time, membership has increased from 34 members to 80. “They just keep coming,” she says. “We have a two-hour rehearsal every week, and we sing and we giggle and we have

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fun and I encourage them. They’re just such an amazing group.” The choir, which is associated with the city’s 55 Plus Centre, sings in fourpart harmony, and their repertoire includes a wide range of styles, Hannaford-Wilcox says; their 2023 Christmas concert included a tune by Pentatonix, which featured the group having to create percussive and other instrumental sounds acapella to back up a soloist. “It’s far from easy. I challenge them,” she says. “They are up to the challenge every time and they do anything from fun to serious.” The group has actually outgrown their now-former practice space at the 55 Plus Centre and now rehearses in the sanctuary

of St. Paul’s United Church, where Hannaford-Wilcox is also the music director. The group typically does two concerts per year, with one around the Christmas holiday season and the other in the spring; this year’s will be held at St. Paul’s on May 10. All ticket proceeds from the choir’s shows go to support the 55 Plus Centre. Hannaford-Wilcox, who also recently took leadership of the Lakehead Choral Group, says there’s a number of reasons that she’s observed why Silver Sounds continues to attract members. “A lot of the people in the choir have sung in other choirs and they feel they’re too old for those choirs,”

she says. “Some people just enjoy the music […], some people just are just lonely at home and they want to come and sing and hang out with a bunch of people.” “There’s so many people and they all have come for different reasons, but we have so much fun making music together.” Silver Sounds Choir practices at St. Paul’s United Church Thursdays at 10 am, and is always accepting new members. You can contact Diana Hannaford-Wilcox at dlcwilcox@tbaytel.net.

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Music

Gas in the Tank

Brett Kissel Resumes Nationwide Tour Story by Sidney Ulakovic, Photo by Ben Dartnell

“I

n a lot of ways, it’s a badge of honour to have a lot of great shows and be able to tour and play,” says award-winning Canadian country star Brett Kissel, who is in the midst of a nationwide tour that coincides with his most ambitious artistic endeavor to date—a fouralbum box set entitled The Compass Project. Kissel, who’s no stranger to Thunder Bay, will return to the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on February 5 as a part of this monumental project. “The Compass Project is something I’ve been thinking about for a long time,” says Kissel. “I always thought Garth Brooks and Reba and George Strait do extraordinary box sets. I was wanting to do that, but you can’t do that at the beginning of your career.” For Kissel, now sitting two decades into his music career and more than well established in the country music scene, the timing was right to embark on a project of that scale. The Compass Project sees Kissel at his most explorative, using each album as an opportunity to delve into a new sound—the South Album’s new-school country hits, the stripped-back acoustic collection on the East Album, and the West Album’s homage to traditional country sounds, all wrapped together with live recordings from The Compass Tour on the North

Album. “For me, being able to show that diversity in my artistry was a really unique experience and something I’m very proud of.” The Compass Tour, which kicked off in April of 2023, saw Kissel playing cities and towns throughout western Canada as albums for The Compass Project released, allowing him to essentially see the fan response to the albums in real time as the shows coincided with releases. “There’s a lot of people seeing us

for the first time, and there’s a lot of people who are seeing us for the 10th time,” he says. “So it’s a really great opportunity to give a lot of variety to the show.” As of mid-January, Kissel is on a well-deserved break before hitting the road for the eastern leg of the tour, with Thunder Bay being the third show. “So like, talk about gas in the tank,” Kissel laughs. “We’re coming to Thunder Bay with a full tank of gas.”

Brett Kissel will play at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on February 5. As of mid-January, the show is almost sold out. Check out tbca.com for lastminute tickets.

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OfftheWall

Return To Civilization Teknosis

Teknosis unites some of the Thunder Bay music scene’s most talented artists in a band designed to be heavy, challenging, and fun. Their debut release, Return To Civilization, accurately captures all of that and more, blending elements of death and technical metal while also keeping everything groovy. In particular, the second track, “Matriarch,” has a feel that will have heads banging and bodies bouncing and grooving simultaneously. From the opening march of “Where Is Your God?” through first single “Shapeshifter” and culminating track “The Cycle,” Teknosis puts listeners through their paces. It feels like the songs could go off the rails at any moment, but remain incredibly syncopated throughout. Given the amount of tension and anticipation built up song to song, it’s hard to believe this is only five songs long. Teknosis has created an EP that lays the groundwork for bigger things to come and leaves listeners eager to hear more.

Reviews

Killer

Thunder Bay’s Killer harkens back to the glory days of thrash before the Big Four, when the bands recognized their punk roots and weren’t writing 20-minute epics. With nine songs clocking in at a total of 20 minutes, Killer has created an album that isn’t necessarily so much an homage to early thrash as it is a continuation of where the bands who were staying true to the roots went. Shouted vocals, riffs, groove, and speed—it’s all here. Killer (the band, and the album) bring to mind sweaty, mulleted kids in band shirts with the sleeves cut out and dirty Levi’s slamming into each other in the pit. Bands have gone from playing live shows in order to sell records to making records so you’ll come out to their live shows once again; based strictly off of this debut album, Killer is a band that would be well worth getting out to see live. -Jason Wellwood

-Jason Wellwood

Part Time Believer The Strumbellas

When I first heard that The Strumbellas were releasing new music, their 2016 hit “Spirits” immediately started playing in the back of my head. It was one of those songs that was on every radio station when it first came out, and you either loved it or hated it. Their newest songs will probably receive a similar reaction. Active since 2008, this alternative indie rock band hails from the Kawartha Lakes region in southern Ontario, and they bring a taste of small-town music to the Top 100 Billboard charts. The album can be divided into three parts: the first few songs, such as “Hold Me,” have that bright and bouncy sound to them that most modern indie rock has; the songs in the album’s middle are apparently best described as farmemo or gothic-folk (it’s essentially alternative rock with a moodier tone to it); while the last couple of songs are somewhat depressing but also slightly uplifting—they’re certainly interesting to listen to. The very last song “Wreckage,” is definitely my favourite. Expect to hear some of these tunes on the radio soon.

Volume III

The Commotions

If you’re looking to spice up your music library this February, The Commotions’ latest album, Volume III, might be exactly what you’re looking for. For the uninitiated, The Commotions comprises 12(!!) of Canada’s top soul and jazz musicians, including three powerful lead singers, an energetic five-piece horn section, and basically every other instrument you can think of. Volume III is a collection of 12 impossible-to-predict tracks, ranging from high-energy Motown-disco era symphonies (like “Feel the Commotion” and “What Are We Waiting For?”) to slow, soulful power ballads (“Love in the Fast Lane” and “Where Does the Love Go?”). Channeling the super smooth soul music of the 70s, each track feels simultaneously nostalgic and new. While their G-rated lyrics come off a bit corny or on-the-nose at times, the album still delivers a wholesome, fun, and musically impressive arrangement. Pop this on next time you’re cleaning the house or bored at work for a fun and energetic soundtrack. -Kelsey Raynard

-Emily Turner

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Bridges To The North Tony McGuire

In Bridges To The North’s opening narration, director Tony McGuire laughs as he reflects on being tasked with the challenge of making a documentary about roads interesting, before he completely engrosses viewers for the film’s nearly two-hour runtime. “It’s a documentary about people,” McGuire states in that same opening narration, and this sentiment lies at the heart of the film as it explores the complex, multi-faceted issue of the desire for yearround roads in some remote Indigenous communities, particularly Marten Falls and Webequie. The film incorporates an impressive and diverse range of perspectives that are all made incredibly approachable through McGuire’s presentation; whether it be the inclusion of himself and the crew navigating obstacles, the level of transparency conveyed through the film’s editing, or McGuire’s dry humour sprinkled throughout, Bridges To The North feels distinctly human. That being said, the film boasts some breathtaking shots which McGuire skillfully inserts to develop the film’s argument, a standout being drone footage that captures a menacing level of isolation on a winter road into Marten Falls. However, Bridges To The North’s most subtle but powerful argument (I won’t spoil it for you) is in McGuire’s conclusion, which beautifully ties the film together and leaves a lasting impression. -Sidney Ulakovic

Rat Race: Stories of Addiction and Recovery

Jody Loos and Azreer Gill When Howl at the Moon first opened up as a alcohol-free space here in Thunder Bay, there was an immediate response of support and also a sense of relief—people finally had somewhere safe to go along their journey of recovery, yet still have a hell of a good time. Anyone can walk in and enjoy live entertainment, an assortment of beverages, cultural sessions such as Ojibwe language speaking and healing circles, and access to a multitude of resources. Now with a new podcast out, Howl owner Jody Loos and co-host Azreer Gill give listeners a real-life snapshot of street life and the struggles with addiction. They open up about their personal journeys with substance abuse and the many challenges that arose, and they help listeners understand the root cause(s) of addiction. Episodes cover particularly relevant topics such as how to overcome alcohol triggers over the holidays, as well as the importance of structure and routine. Rat Race: Stories of Addiction and Recovery couldn’t have come out at a better time as Thunder Bay continues to face its largest addiction crisis ever. Bravo Loos and Gill!

Strong Female Character

Picturing the Game: An Illustrated Story of Hockey

Fern Brady

Many people enjoy reading memoirs as a genre. I can recommend this book by Scottish comedian Fern Brady, which breaks out from the celebrity and politics pack and offers something quite fresh and interesting. Brady writes with clarity and frankness about life as a working-class female with undiagnosed autism, and the way that it impacted her development and choices. Those choices led her from a friendless childhood, to stripping to earn money while she pursued studies in Iranian literature, to an eventual diagnosis and understanding of her particular neurodiversity. Unable to find much to help her as she tried to live her life unmasked, she decided to write this book—as she told The Times—“to make things better for the next autistic or misfit girl you meet.” She is a comedian and her humour is evident throughout, even though there are heartbreaking and angry elements within the descriptions of her struggle to be understood by others and to understand her own emotional life.

Don Weekes

Don Weekes has chronicled the history of Canada’s national winter sport in a unique and novel way: through the eyes of the cartoonists and illustrators of the times. Early limitations of photography meant the sports page illustrator offered a firsthand account of hockey action to newspaper readers. As the sport transformed, so did the art surrounding it. Complimentary illustrations evolved into satirical cartoons, providing commentary laced with comedy, insight, and nuance. Any sports fan will appreciate this book. Blending a balance of text and image, this book is a barnburner. It captivates and engages immediately. What started out as something to leaf through during a coffee break became something to read at lunch, then something to bring home to devour (that itself is a feat, for I am a picky, picky reader). I highly recommend this book as a way to learn about our nation’s storied pastime from a different perspective. -Derek Gradner

-Angela Meady

-Andrea Lysenko

Feb 10, 2024

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Adrian Lysenko

Architecture

The Canada Games Complex today

The Canada Games Complex By Jennifer Bonazzo

Adrian Lysenko

 Artist Ryan Pooman’s mural Turtle Island, which was completed in the Complex’s lobby in 2023

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s the spirit of competition sweeps through Thunder Bay with the upcoming Ontario Winter Games, we look back to 1981 when our city welcomed the nation for the Canada Summer Games. The Canada Games Complex was built for the ‘81 Games, but constructed in a way that it would continue to support our community. With an average of 200,000 visitors annually, it clearly has succeeded. Preparations for the Jeux Canada Games began December 14, 1977 with the announcement that Thunder Bay had been successful in their bid to host. When it became apparent a venue for the Olympic pool events was needed, 420 Winnipeg Avenue was chosen as the site, and tenders for contractors and architects were issued. The successful candidates

were Gateway Building & Supply Ltd., a local contracting company, and Marani, Roundthwaite & Dick architects of Toronto, respectively. The latter was a triumph for the city; versions of that architectural firm have been operating since 1919, specializing in civic buildings ranging from public libraries, recreational centres, and arenas to banks and courthouses. Our new venue would clearly be in good hands. With the games set for August 9 to 22, 1981, things progressed quickly. The sod was turned in May 1979 by mayor Dusty Miller and P.R Cook of the Jeux Canada Games Society, and construction started. The goal of all parties involved in the Complex’s creation was that the building not just be for the Games, but for the community’s continued use when they were done. Therefore, the design included the Olympic elements,

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

 Former mayor Dusty Miller and P. R. Cook at the sod turning ceremony for the Canada Games Complex in 1979

 Construction of the Complex’s pool

Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame

 Kids playing table tennis on the pool deck, likely in the mid-1980s

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

Jennifer Bonazzo is a member of the Heritage Advisory Committee, which advises city council on the conservation of heritage buildings, sites, and resources, and their integration into development. For more information on the city’s heritage resources, visit thunderbay.ca/en/city-hall/ heritage-in-thunder-bay.aspx

 Aerial view of the Canada Games Complex prior to the construction of the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

City of Thunder Bay Archives/Series 422, Accession 2011-23, Item 1

such as the 77-metre pool, a fitness testing lab, and spectator seats (both permanent and portable), but it also had recreational essentials such as multi-purpose rooms, racquetball and squash courts, and, when it first opened, a dining lounge. When finished, the final cost was estimated to be just over $7 million. After the successful completion of the games, the Complex was opened to the public. Throughout the years, many updates and much money have been invested to keep the building up to date. The most recent project was in 2023, which made improvements for accessibility and inclusion, with work on change rooms, showers, and a fully accessible genderneutral locker space. The building’s automation system was replaced, along with boilers and supply fans. The work was done thanks to the federal government’s Green and Inclusive Community Building (CGIB) fund and will benefit the Complex in greenhouse gas reduction and utility savings. Of course, the Complex is more than a structure; it is also the programs and services it offers. This month it will be a host site for the upcoming Ontario Winter Games, circling back to its original purpose. Kim Begin, supervisor of aquatics, wellness, children and youth, confirmed they will be hosting artistic swimming and diving, and are excited to once more have athletes to our city and facility. When asked what the legacy of the Complex is for our city, Begin shared it “is a vibrant, accessible, family-friendly facility. Over the years the facility has tailored programming and events to meet the needs of the community, offering new programs and options for all ages and abilities.” That definitely sounds like a gold medal win.

Courtesy of the Thunder Bay Museum

Architecture

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Advertising Feature

February Behind the Business Feature

Sarah Kiiskila, Owner and Operator, Mowing the Way

you’re experiencing challenges, or just wanting new perspectives, find people who already have experience. Don’t be afraid of failure, because not trying and potentially missing out on an amazing experience is the biggest loss you could reap. Also, don’t let other people’s doubt or judgement stop you from giving it your all! How did the Summer Company Program help you in becoming an entrepreneur? The Summer Company Program proved instrumental in equipping me with valuable knowledge for navigating the business world. Seminars with experienced professionals covered essential topics such as advertising, marketing, and client relationships. The Meet Sarah Kiiskila, the entrepreneur behind the thriving lawn care and yard maintenance venture Mowing the Way, which took root on June 9, 2023 through the Summer Company Program. Originating from a summer job mowing her grandparents’ lawn during the first year of high school, Sarah discovered a deep sense of pride and accomplishment in maintaining lawns. The end of that summer marked the beginning of a new chapter, as she began exploring the possibility of starting a lawn care business and discovered the program. Prior to this venture, a longstanding interest in business fueled her aspirations for her future beyond high school. The journey took an exciting turn when she learned about the CEDC Summer Company program through word of mouth. Eager to turn her entrepreneurial dreams into reality, she promptly applied for their grant. The acceptance into the program became the catalyst for the birth of Mowing the Way. Taking the first step, she printed flyers and distributed them throughout the neighborhood, laying the foundation for a business that would soon become a green beacon in the community. Beyond the lawns she tends, the entrepreneur is a senior high school student, bilingual in French, and a dynamic participant in sports

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and athletics. From lifting weights to competing with her Nordic ski team, Big Thunder, she brings not just expertise but also a vibrant energy to the yards she cares for. To learn more about the Summer Company program visit: gotothunderbay.ca

Q & A with Sarah

What drew you to entrepreneurship? I was drawn to entrepreneurship because I liked the idea of being able to make my own schedule, provide a service that’s in demand, and work for myself. The idea of having relationships with clients that I could engage in meaningful conversations with was another appealing aspect. What inspired you to launch your business? I found out about the CEDC Summer Company Program through word of mouth and after applying and receiving a grant, as well as tons of information through seminars and meetings, I gained the confidence and support to launch and continue my business. What advice would you give to a fellow student who is looking to start a business? The advice I would give is to just go for it. Give it a try, be brave, and put yourself out there. If

program provided a grant to alleviate costs, offered opportunities to showcase my services, and assigned a mentor for personalized support. Knowing I had a supportive network, I felt reassured when facing challenges. What was your most memorable moment as a Summer Company Program participant? My most memorable moment was receiving an email from a new client who was referred to me by a satisfied customer. Knowing that my work had left a lasting impression and led to a referral filled me with pride and motivation. This moment reinforced my commitment to the purpose behind launching Mowing the Way.

TattooedYou

 Danielle Ambrosia

 Ambrosia’s seven chakras tattoo

Seven Chakras Spiritual Awakening After Loss Story and photos by Leah Morningstar Tattoo by Chad Gilbert of Think Tank Tattoos

t first glance, the tattoo up and down Danielle Ambrosia’s back looks like a simple tribute to the spirituality of yoga— starting with the root chakra at the tip of the tailbone (covered by pants in the photo) and stretching up the spine to the crown chakra at the nape of the neck. Altogether, the chakras are root, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye, and crown; each represents different energy centres in the body. So while this is

definitely a tattoo about yoga, it’s about so much more. Back in October of 2010, Ambrosia’s older brother Jarad was visiting from Calgary. Both Ambrosia and her young son were thrilled to have this extra time with him. Growing up, Ambrosia and her brother were very close and they always had each other’s backs. The unthinkable happened though, when Jarad passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. Ambrosia was actually the one who found him unresponsive one morning, and it was the worst experience of her life.

After his death, Ambrosia was, understandably, struggling. She was finding it difficult to carry out dayto-day tasks and it was a challenge being present for her son. It was all she could do to get out of bed some days. But in those darkest days of uncertainty and sorrow, something truly amazing happened. “I was lying in bed. I was drifting between awake and asleep, and suddenly I felt tingling from my heart chakra up to my crown,” she says, adding that she heard static, like on a radio, and through the static she heard her brother’s voice. “I felt the physical presence of my brother and I heard him speak,” she says. “He said ‘I’m okay, Danielle. I’m okay.’” And that was it. Ambrosia woke up feeling relieved and refreshed, and like she

had really been visiting with her brother. She says she knows a lot of people would doubt her experience, but she decided to embrace it fully. Prior to her brother’s death, Ambrosia was just starting to get interested in yoga. In the years that followed, she mastered the physical poses and the meditation and learned more about spirituality. “This whole journey of hearing my brother speak and then doing the work and going to therapy and doing yoga and meditating, well, it brought relief to my grief,” she says. “I wanted to honour that journey with a meaningful tattoo.” A tattoo for a beloved brother, yes, but also a symbol of spiritual awakening and learning to keep going amidst sorrow and joys.

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Green us to be in a better mindset to be responsible community members. Getting outside is vital for our wellbeing. When we connect with nature, it inspires us to make the world a better place. As winter enthusiasts, we have the power to make a difference. By embracing eco-friendly choices in our snow adventures, we not only enjoy the thrill of the outdoors but also contribute to the preservation of the amazing Northwestern Ontario winter landscapes we hold dear. So, gear up, get outside and enjoy responsibly—our planet will thank you for it.

Snow Sports with a Conscience Eco-Friendly Winter Adventures

inter is in full swing here in Thunder Bay, and along with it comes the thrill of getting outside to enjoy it. Snowshoeing, skiing, and skating rely on human power and have a minimal carbon footprint—this makes them perfect outdoor activities. While the excitement of carving through a fresh snowfall is undeniable, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of our winter fun. Here are several eco-friendly ideas you can incorporate into your adventures. When embarking on your snowy journey, opt for lowcarbon transportation options like carpooling to minimize your environmental impact. If you are travelling out of town, select accommodations that prioritize energy efficiency, supporting our collective goal of building a healthier planet. If you’re bringing food with you, choose reusable items to minimize trash, and be mindful of recycling.

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When venturing into the great outdoors for winter fun, be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles. Respect natural habitats and wildlife, stay on designated trails, and dispose of waste responsibly to minimize your impact on the environment. Elevate your snow game by opting for eco-friendly gear. Several types of winter equipment can be crafted from recycled or responsibly sourced materials. Clothing can be made from recycled fabrics or sustainable alternatives. Many brands now prioritize environmentally conscious production methods, so you can bundle up in style with a clear conscience. Thrifting and online marketplaces also are great options for finding used equipment and clothing. This option reduces waste in landfills and lowers the carbon footprint from new production. As we strive to create a more sustainable world, prioritizing selfcare is important because it helps

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By Amy Ryan, Communications Coordinator, EcoSuperior

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Health Start by figuring out how much you actually drink in a week, and aim to reduce that amount to get to a lower risk level. According to Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health: • 1–2 standard drinks per week is low risk • 3–6 standard drinks is moderate risk • 7 or more standard drinks per week is increasingly high risk The Thunder Bay District and Northwestern Health Units have collaborated to develop straightforward information and resources on alcohol and cancer risk to help people make informed choices about drinking. Learn more at straightupfacts.ca.

Drinking Less is Better For Your Health

A standard drink means: Beer 341 ml (12oz) of beer 5% alcohol

By Stephanie Diebolt, Public Health Nurse, Injury Prevention and Substance Use Team, Thunder Bay District Health Unit

lcohol is often used to socialize, to unwind, to celebrate, and for many other reasons. While people might generally agree that drinking less is better for your health, the risk is taken in stride in order to enjoy a pint after work or cocktails with friends. Recently, there has been a shift in what researchers know about alcohol and health, and it’s a little harder to absorb. About a year ago, Canada’s new Guidance on Alcohol and Health revealed that, contrary to previous thinking, there really is no “safe” amount of drinking. Drinking

as few as three standard drinks per week increases the risk of chronic diseases—including at least seven types of cancer. The link between alcohol and cancer risk is new information to a lot of people. You won’t see it on a beer ad or wine label. But here’s a sobering fact: alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, like tobacco and asbestos. In 2020, alcohol was linked to 7,000 new cancer cases in Canada, including 24% of breast cancer cases, 20% of colon cancers, 15% of rectal cancers, and 13% of oral and liver cancers.

You may be thinking, there are so many things that might contribute to developing cancer, why focus on alcohol? The reason is simple: many people don’t know, and the information might be important to them. We are already familiar with cancer prevention strategies such as not smoking, eating a healthy diet, and reducing sun exposure. Now we can add drinking less alcohol to the list. Which brings us to the good news. If you drink alcohol, a little or a lot, any reduction is beneficial and can reduce your cancer risk.

Cooler, cider, ready-to-drink 341 ml (12oz) of drinks 5% alcohol

Wine 142 ml (5oz) of wine 12% alcohol

Spirits (whisky, vodka, gin, etc.) 43 ml (1.5oz) of spirits 40% alcohol

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Helping you connect with what matters most Connect with your loved ones, book a hearing assessment today

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TheWall

Radioactive Waste Transportation Plans Could Spell Trouble Editorial by By Brennain Lloyd and Julee Boan, Photo courtesy of Northwatch

ave you been driving the highways of Northwestern Ontario this winter? Does white knuckling over black ice get your heart pumping faster than a shot of espresso from the St Paul Roastery? Thanks to the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO), travel in our region could get a lot more exciting. Before the end of this year, the NWMO says they will be selecting their preferred location for a deep geological repository for all of Canada’s high-level radioactive waste. If they choose their candidate site between Ignace and Dryden, two or more trucks per day will travel through Thunder Bay for at least 50 years, each of them hauling 35tonne containers of highly radioactive nuclear waste. If all goes well, bystanders and fellow travellers will receive only low doses of radiation

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with each passing truck. If things go less well, consequences could be much more severe. The NWMO’s plan is a package deal: long-distance transportation of five million “bundles” of radioactive fuel waste, a processing plant where the radioactive waste containers would be opened and the bundles transferred into copper-coated steel tubes, and a repository deep underground comprising a warren of tunnels and rooms too radioactive to allow human entry. And then the kicker: the radioactive wastes will be abandoned when the NWMO walks away, according to plan, from materials that will remain harmful for tens of thousands of years. It’s the gift that will keep on giving. Speaking of gifts, the NWMO has entered into a series of agreements with the Township of Ignace (population 1,200), designating it as

a potential “host community.” They would also need agreement from Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, but we’ll focus on Ignace here because there is more information available about that process. According to the NWMO, they will only proceed with their nuclear waste burial scheme in a community that is “informed and willing,” but they have left it to Ignace to decide how that “willingness” will be measured. In a resolution passed in December 2021, Ignace township council declared that the council would make that decision— that’s five people, with a majority of three required. They have since added some bells and whistles, with consultants recently hired to “engage” and “listen” before reporting to a “willingness committee” (not yet in place) which will then make a recommendation to the Ignace council. Then, the council

itself will decide if the township is willing to have a site 45 kilometres down the road and in a different watershed be the end-point for all of Canada’s high-level nuclear waste. At last estimate, the Township of Ignace was well on its way to the $10 million mark for money gifted by the NWMO, with more to come due to an extended funding agreement. Is the NWMO attempting to buy “willingness”? The transportation risks are real. While the nuclear industry and the regulator dismiss the low levels of radiation that will emanate from each shipment as being “below regulatory levels,” the calculations are based on several assumptions that might or might not be borne out. Exposures will increase for those sharing the road or the roadside stop in each and every instance of a truck being halted or slowed by an accident, construction, a forest fire, inclement weather, vehicle failure, or even driver fatigue. If a container is breached in an accident, the results could be catastrophic. Again, the nuclear industry and regulator dismiss such concerns, boasting of international standards and describing tough safety tests. But a 2021 Access to Information request by northern Ontario-based environmental group Northwatch to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission about container testing recently revealed that the used fuel transportation package has not been subject to any full-scale testing, and the tests for fire and water immersion can be substituted with computer calculations. On the face of it, it’s an absurd proposition. The upcoming decision will affect hundreds of communities and millions of people along the transportation route, as well as those living in the proposed project’s vicinity and everyone downstream, but these people are not being asked about their “willingness.” Thunder Bay residents have not been asked if they want to take on this nuclear risk for a half-century or more to accommodate decisions made a halfcentury ago to use nuclear power to generate electricity for southern Ontario. But hey, what could go wrong? Don’t wait to be asked. Let the NWMO and Thunder Bay city council know that you are “informed and unwilling.”

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FebruaryEventsGuide February 1–4 & 6–10, 7:30 pm

Magnus Theatre Presents: Two Indians Magnus Theatre

This play by Falen Johnson follows Win and Roe, two cousins who reunite in a Toronto alley after years apart to recreate a ceremony from their childhood, but can they remember how? Times vary by date; tickets are available online. See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info.

magnustheatre.com

February 1–3, 7:30 pm

Badanai Theatre Presents: The Play That Goes Wrong Paramount Theatre

Directed by Spencer Hari, this 1920s whodunit has everything you never wanted in a show. Nevertheless, the accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call. Tickets available online.

badanai.eventbrite.ca

February 2, 3, & 9, 7 pm

Lakehead University Men’s Thunderwolves Hockey Fort William Gardens

Come out and support Lakehead University’s Men’s Thunderwolves Hockey Team at the loudest and proudest arena. Tickets are $16 for adults and $11 for children 16 years and under.

thunderwolveshockey.com

February 2, 3, 9, 19, 23, & 24, 7:45 pm

Kam River Fighting Walleye Home Games NorWest Arena

Come out and support the Kam River Fighting Walleye when the puck drops at 7:45 pm. Ticket prices vary and are available online.

fightingwalleye.com

February 2, 3, 8 pm

Cedric Newman and Chris Quigley

Crickets @ The Odeon Cedric Newman, a longtime stand-up comedian who has performed all over this country, will be accompanied by Chris Quigley, a unique comedic talent, for a double feature you won’t want to miss. Tickets are $20 and available online.

facebook.com/cricketscomedyclub

February 2–4, 6 pm

Our Voices Film Festival Arrowhead Center of the Arts, Grand Marais, Minn.

Our Voices film festival will feature five critically acclaimed independent films, all directed by female filmmakers from around the world. All money raised from ticket sales goes to support the survivors and victims of domestic abuse in the community. Tickets available online.

February 3, 10 am

Valentine’s Market Delta Hotel

facebook.com/shoplocaltbay

Spend Saturday afternoons at the art gallery this winter and learn about printmaking, drawing, painting, and other cool art techniques. Cool Creators is for ages 5–7 and starts at 12:30 pm. Winter Wonders is ages 8–10 and starts at 3 pm. $95–$105 registration. Register online.

Support your favourite local vendors at this market in support of Caring Hearts Cat Rescue. With over 55 tables to shop from, raffle prizes, and a cash bar with a feature cocktail and mocktail, this market promises an afternoon well spent for a good cause. Free to attend.

February 3, 10, 17, & 24, 11 am

Peddler’s Pop Up Market The Hub Bazaar

The Peddler’s Pop Up Market will run every Saturday until spring. The perfect after-brunch stop to do some local shopping over the weekend.

facebook.com/thehubbazaar

February 3 & 17, 4:30 pm

Let’s Make Gnocchi Class The Pasta Shoppe

Making gnocchi is a labour of love. Learn the ins and outs of making gnocchi with The Pasta Shoppe and take home your hard work to enjoy (after you taste it, of course). Spaces are limited. Class is $100 per person. Register online.

thepastashoppe.ca

tv+ app 90 2

The The Walleye Walleye

February 3, 10, 17, & 24

Cool Creators & Winter Wonders

violencepreventioncenter.org/ourvoices

Visit tbaytel.net/tv for more details

EVENTS GUIDE KEY General Art Food Sports Music

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

theag.ca

Until February 4

Under The Scope: Medical History at Lakehead

Thunder Bay Museum This temporary exhibit will feature a timeline of the history of medicine in Thunder Bay and area, with a specific focus on epidemics and pandemics that have swept through the region.

thunderbaymuseum. com

February 4, 9 am

Winter Wonderland Market

CLE Heritage Building Atom Econ’s Winter Wonderland Market in support of Northern Reach Network will have over 60 local vendors to shop from. Make sure to stop in and pick out your perfect Valentine gifts.

facebook.com/atomeconic

February 4, 11, 18, & 25, 2 pm

February 8, 6 pm

Various Locations

Brodie Resource Library

Winter FunDays

Author Reading: Tanya Talaga

Enjoy free indoor and outdoor programming for the whole family this winter. Winter FunDays run every Sunday until March 17 starting at 2 pm. The weekly activities will be held in neighbourhoods throughout the city.

Award-winning author of the books Seven Fallen Feathers and All Our Relations Tanya Talaga will visit Brodie Resource Library for a reading. Registration required. Register online.

thunderbay.ca/en/recreation

February 5, 12, 19, & 26, 5:30 pm

Thunder Bay Meditation Group

213 Castlegreen Drive Thunder Bay Soto Zen meditation group invites you to come together for meditation and Dharma in the Soto Zen tradition. Meetings for February 5 and 12 are via Zoom, and the remaining dates will be held in person. Free to attend.

thunderbaymeditationgroup@gmail.com

February 8, 6 pm

Public Reception: Radical Stitch Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Mix and mingle with the artists and co-curators at the public reception of the Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s ongoing Radical Stitch exhibition, bringing much-needed critical attention to the breadth and impact of contemporary Indigenous beading. Master of ceremonies is beadwork artist Melissa Twance.

theag.ca

tbpl.ca

February 8–10

Thunder Bay Art Gallery Presents: Aanikoobijiganag: Thunder Bay Beading Symposium Thunder Bay Art Gallery

This three-day event, which coincides with Radical Stitch, celebrates the joy of beading in northern Ontario’s firstever beading symposium. Public events include a hide tanning workshop and beading circle. See this month’s Art section for more info.

theag.ca

February 9 & 10, 7 & 9:30 pm

The Danger Cats

Crickets @ The Odeon

The boys are coming back to Thunder Bay for two nights full of laughs, with two shows each night. Come see why Uncle Hack, Sam Walker, and Brett Forte are selling out shows across North America. Tickets are $25 and available online.

facebook.com/cricketscomedyclub

Starting February 9

Anishinaabewin Maamninendmowin: Pane GiiBite (Indigenous Ingenuity: Timeless Inventions) Thunder Bay Museum

Celebrate the everevolving world of Indigenous ingenuity in this travelling exhibition that presents a clever and novel mix of science and culture. Exhibition will be in Thunder Bay until March 17. Entry is by donation.

sciencenorth.ca/exhibits/indigenous-ingenuity

February 9–11

Current River Carnival

Current River Community Centre

Celebrate the outdoors and community at this year’s winter carnival. See this month’s City Scene section for more info. currentrivercom.com

February 10, 9 am

Ramada Sports Card and Memorabilia Show Ramada Hotel

Calling all diehard sports collectors! Vendors will have NHL, NFL, NBA, and MLB cards, memorabilia, wax boxes, and supplies for sale, as well as nonsports collectors items such as Pokémon. Free to attend.

rowz44@outlook.com

February 10, noon

Book Signing: This is My Family by Julie GrabowskiMcGowan The Loop

Local author Julie Grabowski-McGowan will be signing her book all about the different family units and the one common denominator that defines them all: love.

julie-rose-1@hotmail. com

February 10, 1 pm

Weaving Workshop with Bee Weave Creations

The Creative Company Art Studio

In this course, you will learn the basics of weaving with a wide variety of yarns and fibres in rich colours and textures available for you to weave into your unique creation. Course is $85. Register online.

thecreativecompany.ca

February 10, 2:30 pm

Happy Galentine’s Day! Waverley Resource Library

Grab your gal pals and head to the library to make your own friendship bracelets, do your nails, and have a sweet treat. Ages 7–12. Registration required. Register online.

tbpl.ca

February 10, 5:30 pm

2024 Year Of The Dragon Chinese New Year Celebration Delta Hotel

This Chinese cultural show includes a door prize, authentic Chinese cuisine, and more prizes throughout the evening. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased by calling event organizer Peng You.

807-628-4305

February 10, 6 pm

The Story Behind The Mask The Chanterelle

You are invited to an enchanting evening of elegance and philanthropy at the inaugural masquerade ball in support of the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay. Single tickets are $200, and a table of eight is $1,550. Tickets available online.

facebook.com/TheChanterelle

February 10, 10 pm

Heartless AntiValentines Drag Show Black Pirates Pub

Get ready for a night of getting over that not-sospecial someone with Thunder Bay’s best drag queens and kings as they perform to all of your favourite heartbreak hits. Doors 9 pm, show starts at 10 pm. 19+.

@wigginsproductions

February 12, 7:30 pm

Kim Richard Nossal: All Alone in the World? What a Return of America First Would Mean for Canada

Thunder Bay Museum

Kim Richard Nossal, professor emeritus of political studies with the Centre for International and Defence Policy, Queen’s University, will give a lecture that explores the domestic, cross-border, and global implications for Canada of a MAGA victory in the 2024 American elections. Free to attend. Register online.

thunderbaymuseum. com

February 13, 10 am

Puppy Perks Storytime Brodie Resource Library

Families can visit Brodie Library for storytime with adorable puppies. Join Tammy from PAWsitively Social for this fun-filled opportunity to learn how to safely approach dogs and socialize with them. All ages, drop-in. Note that the number of dogs, their size, and desire to be handled may vary.

tbpl.ca

February 13, 7 pm

Tuesday Trivia The Social

Trivia buffs, prepare to prove yourselves at The Social’s trivia night, with questions that cover a range of categories. Up to six people are allowed per team, and the winning team can expect a prize for their efforts. No tickets are required, but participants are encouraged to come early and secure their table.

thesocialtbay.com

February 13 & 27, 7:30 pm

North Stars Home Games

Fort William Gardens

It’s game day at Fort William Gardens! Come out and support the Thunder Bay North Stars when the puck drops at 7:30 pm. Ticket prices vary and are available online.

facebook.com/TBNorthStars

February 14, 7:30 pm

Snowed In Comedy Tour Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

The Snowed In Comedy Tour will stop in Thunder Bay for a night on their coast to coast tour. Tickets are $60 and available online. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

tbca.com

February 14, 8:30 pm

Valentine’s Dessert & Wine Pairing

Red Lion Smokehouse Red Lion Smokehouse and Cardinal Chocolate Co. have paired up to present a special night of love, chocolate, and wine expertly paired by sommelier John Murray. Tickets are $65 per person and available online.

facebook.com/redlionsmokehouse

February 15, 7:30 pm

Kyle Lucey Comedy Tour Norteños Cantina

Kyle Lucey’s extensive background in improv and theatre makes for raw, honest material performed in the most ridiculously fun way. Tickets are $25 advance online, $30 at the door.

campfirecomedy.ca

February 16–26

Ontario Winter Games Various Locations

Excitement, passion, and drive—join the athletes and get into the spirit of the game as Thunder Bay hosts this year’s Ontario Winter Games. See this month’s Cover Story and Top Five for more info.

thunderbay.ca/tbay-games

February 16 & 17, 7 pm

All The DAZE Productions Presents: Little Shop of Horrors Magnus Theatre

Based on the film by Roger Corman, this Broadway production is coming to a stage near you. Tickets are $22.60 and available online. See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info.

allthedaze.ca

February 17 & 18

Voyageur Winter Carnival

Fort William Historical Park Celebrate the world of winter sports and games with a magical blend of traditional carnival fun at Fort William Historical Park’s Voyageur Winter Carnival. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

fwhp.ca

February 19, 7 am

Murder Mystery Tin Can Challenge Kamview Nordic Centre

There’s been a murder, and Kamview needs your help to solve it. Get your $5 game card from the chalet and participate by either skiing or snowshoeing to find all of the markers and punch your card. Kamview’s Murder Mystery Challenge will run until March 17.

tbnordictrails.com

February 18 & 19, 2 pm

SnowDays on the Waterfront Marina Park

Bundle up for a winter wonderland at SnowDays on the Waterfront. Get ready for two days of both indoor and outdoor fun, including a travelling public art installation. Bring your friends and family for a chilly thrill. See this month’s Art section for more info.

thunderbay.ca

February 23 & 24

Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre Presents: Reimagining the Stars Magnus Theatre

Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre is back on the Magnus stage with a captivating and imaginative theatrical journey that beckons audiences of all ages on an interstellar adventure. Tickets are $15 and available online.

magnustheatre.com

February 23–25

Winter on the North Shore Photography Workshop

Grand Marais, Minn.

Take full advantage of everything winter has to offer with a photography workshop from Frozen Hiker Photography as you capture sunrises, snowy scenes, frozen waterfalls, and photos along the shore. Workshop is $345. Registration and detailed itinerary available online.

frozenhiker.com

February 25, 1 pm

Weaving With Sarah Lakeside Studio & Café

Students will learn how to form a warp on a loom, both beginner and intermediate knotting techniques, and how to use unique fibres to create visual texture. Class is $65 per person. Register online.

lakesidepotterystudio. com

February 28, 8 pm

Wine Wednesday Series: Iberian Peninsula

Red Lion Smokehouse

Wine Wednesdays continue at Red Lion Smokehouse, and this month they invite you to ponder the exciting flavours of Iberian Peninsula. Sommelier John Murray will be leading a group of wine fans in an informative tasting in the Cardinal Chocolate Co. private room. Tickets are $55.66 and available online.

@redlionsmokehouse

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Music

LU RADIO’S MONTHLY TOP 1 Autogramm*

Music That Humans Can Play

Stomp

8 Small Pleasures* Small Pleasures

Self-Released

17 Hotel Mira*

I Am Not Myself

Light Organ

Dine Alone

Departures

26 respectfulchild*

11 MOONRIIVR*

Self-Released

re:new

Do Right!

Vol. 1

3 Elisapie*

Victory Pool

12 Emilie Kahn* Maybe

Secret City

Inuktitut

7 André Bisson* Latchford

Self-Released

The Hand That Fits the Glove

21 Death Cassette**

5 Bloodshot Bill*

Epic

19 Faith Healer*

Prism Tongue

Luminelle

New Blue Sun

Perennial / K

Formless

Jardin

6 André 3000

Migration Magic

13 Buildings and Food*

Infinity Plus One

Self-Released

14 Cautious Clay

Get Rid Of It

High End Denim

22 Aiza*

Sovereigntyr

Hidden Pony

KARPEH

L’Ecstasy

Love Minus Communications

* Indicates Canadian Content

16 Luge

23 Miranda Joan Overstimulated

Self-Released

The Walleye The Walleye

29 Tiga & Hudson Mohawke*

Matador

Merge

Self-Released

Tambourine

Victory Pool

The Twits

15 The Mountain Goats

I Love It Here, I Live Here

28 Geordie Gordon*

30 bar italia

Blue Note

Jenny from Thebes

92 4

The Space Between

Self-Released

20 Ora Cogan*

4 Munya*

Self-Released

18 Feeling Figures*

27 Drummachinemike*

Mint

Bonsound

Psyche-o-Billy

Électrons libres du québec

Set Your Pussy Free

10 Apollo Suns*

Motewolonuwok

24 Population II

25 Nobro*

Constellation

Bonsound

Check out our weekly charts online at luradio.ca. Keep it locked on 102.7 FM, online streaming at luradio.ca.

Bonsound

9 Off World* 3

2 Jeremy Dutcher*

Chart ranking reflects airplay for the week ending Tuesday, January 9, 2024.

FebruaryMusicGuide FEB 1

The Gin Tonics

Lakehead Beer Company

9 pm / No Cover / 19+

Open Mic Night 7 pm / No Cover / AA

The Social

Mother of Wolves The Foundry

FEB 2

Jazz & OldFashioned Fridays w/ Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm / No Cover / AA

TBSO Presents: Trapèze Hilldale Church

7:30 pm / $15–30 / AA

Live@Loch: Mike Fraser

Loch Lomond Ski Area 8 pm / No Cover / AA

Sober Dance Party Fridays Howl at the Moon

9 pm / No Cover / 19+

The Cover Show 29 (Night 1) Black Pirates Pub 9 pm / $15 / 19+

The Roosters

Red Lion Smokehouse

9:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

Namaste Wahala ft DJ Abby + DJ JR NV Music Hall

10 pm / $10–15 / 19+

Reckless Abandon Norteños Cantina 10 pm / $5 / 19+

Chris Kreienke & The Straw Dawgs The Wayland 10 pm / $5 / 19+

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Saturday Club Nights ft DJ Mo NV Music Hall

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Afro-Latina House 3.0 ft DJ Abby Norteños Cantina 10 pm / $10 / 19+

Chris Kreienke & The Straw Dawgs The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

FEB 4

Hotel Mira + Fake Shark Cinema 5 Skatepark 7 pm / $20+ / AA

Spectrums w/ Hylics + Burial Etiquette Black Pirates Pub 8 pm / $10 / 19+

FEB 5

Sea Shanty The Foundry

8 pm / No Cover / 19+

Brett Kissel

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 8 pm / $84+ / AA

FEB 7

Margaritaville Acoustic Night Norteños Cantina

6 pm / No Cover / 19+

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Howl at the Moon

FEB 3

The Guess Who Alumni

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm / $49+ / AA

The Cover Show 29 (Night 2) Black Pirates Pub 9 pm / $15 / 19+

Jazz & OldFashioned Fridays ft Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm / No Cover / AA

Live@Loch: Maple Suns

Loch Lomond Ski Area 8 pm / No Cover / AA

Shatterhorn & Friends Black Pirates Pub 9 pm / $10 / 19+

Sober Dance Party Fridays Howl at the Moon

9 pm / No Cover / 19+

Boomtown Dragon’s Den

9 pm / $TBA / 19+

Cat Sabbath The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Blood Red Moon Norteños Cantina 10 pm / $5 / 19+

Bashment Bob Marley Bday ft DJ Tanz The Foundry

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Afro-Latin Black & Gold Party ft DJ Eddie The Industry

10 pm / $10-$15 / 19+

Sugarman Shakedown The Foundry

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Cat Sabbath The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Spongebob’s Jellyﬁsh Jam Atmos

10 pm / $25–40 / 19+

Ira Johnson 8 pm / $5 / AA

FEB 10

SGFMS Presents: Leverage For Mountains

Fort William Historical Park 8 pm / $40 / AA

Boomtown

Dragon’s Den

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar

9 pm / $TBA / 19+

8 pm / No Cover / 19+

Norteños Cantina

Shooter’s Tavern

FEB 8

Open Mic Night Lakehead Beer Company

7 pm / No Cover / AA

Cheap & Easy The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

FEB 14

Valentines for Jazz Lovers ft Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm / No Cover / AA

Margaritaville Acoustic Night Norteños Cantina

Howl at the Moon 8 pm / $5 / AA

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern

8 pm / No Cover / 19+ FEB 15

Open Mic Night Lakehead Beer Company

FEB 16

Jazz & OldFashioned Fridays ft Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

6 pm / No Cover / AA

Live@Loch: Duelling Pianos

Loch Lomond Ski Area

Howl at the Moon

Sober Dance Party Fridays 9 pm / No Cover / 19+

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm / $32–50 / AA

Live@Loch: Cole Myronuk

10 pm / $5 / 19+

8 pm / No Cover / AA

FEB 17

Sober Dance Party Fridays

Norteños Cantina

NV Music Hall

Cheap & Easy The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

stardrop

The Foundry

10 pm / $5 / 19+

FEB 19

Loch Lomond Ski Area

Howl at the Moon

9 pm / No Cover / 19+

Cat Sabbath

Norteños Cantina 10 pm / $5 / 19+

Blood Red Moon The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

Back Forty The Foundry

Sea Shanty

10 pm / $5 / 19+

8 pm / No Cover / 19+

FEB 24

The Foundry

6 pm / No Cover / 19+

Ira Johnson

TBSO Presents: In the Key of Beethoven

Headrush

10 pm / $5 / 19+

7:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

10 pm / $10 / 19+

10 pm / $5 / 19+

The Foundry

Open Mic

DJ Big D’s Birthday Bash

NV Music Hall

The Foundry

Saturday Club Nights ft DJ Mo

8 pm / No Cover / AA

Saturday Club Nights ft DJ Mo

Boomtown

FEB 12

7 pm / No Cover / AA

The Selﬁes The Foundry

FEB 9

FEB 21

Undercover The Foundry

Margaritaville Acoustic Night

10 pm / $5 / 19+

6:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

NV Music Hall

Norteños Cantina

Saturday Club Nights ft DJ Mo

Ira Johnson

10 pm / $5 / 19+

8 pm / $5 / AA

Norteños Cantina

Howl at the Moon

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern

8 pm / No Cover / 19+

FEB 22

Open Mic Night Lakehead Beer Company

7 pm / No Cover / AA

Open Jam

The Foundry

9:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

FEB 23

Jazz & OldFashioned Fridays ft Mood Indigo Anchor & Ore

Tee Productions 10 pm / $TBA / 19+

Blood Red Moon The Wayland

10 pm / $5 / 19+

FEB 26

Open Mic

The Foundry

7:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

FEB 28

Margaritaville Acoustic Night Norteños Cantina

6:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

Ira Johnson

Howl at the Moon 8 pm / $5 / AA

6 pm / No Cover / AA

Southern Comfort

Brought to you by:

9:30 pm / No Cover / 19+

For more info visit tbshows.com

Red Lion Smokehouse

The Walleye The Walleye

93 5

FebruaryHoroscopes

Aries

(March 21– April 19) Focus on finding balance in your life. Work demands may be high, but make sure to reserve time for self-care and relaxation. In relationships, communication is key; express your feelings openly and listen to your partner’s perspective. Financially, be mindful of expenses and consider budgeting to avoid unnecessary stress. Stay true to your goals and trust that patience will lead to success. Health-wise, prioritize a balanced diet and regular exercise. By embracing simplicity, Rams will navigate the month with ease.

Taurus

(April 20–May 20) Stick to your tasks with determination, but don’t forget to take short breaks to recharge. A balanced approach to your career will yield fruitful results. Health-wise, focus on maintaining a routine that combines physical activity and rest. A well-balanced lifestyle will enhance your overall well-being. This month, Taurus, let your earthly sensibilities guide you. Trust your instincts, stay grounded, and enjoy the beauty in the everyday moments. Valentine’s Day proves extra promising.

Gemini

(May 21–June 20) Your social calendar is buzzing, and you’re in demand. Embrace the opportunity to connect with friends both old and new. Who knows what kind of cosmic conspiracies you

The Walleye

By Sunny Disposish

might cook up together? Health-wise, add a dash of variety to your routine. Trying a new workout or experimenting with colourful veggies can be as exciting as discovering a new meme. Keep it light, keep it fun, and let the good vibes of February be your guiding star. Twins may receive a gift of chocolate from a secret admirer this month!

Cancer

(June 21–July 22) In matters of the heart, your intuition is your wingman. If you’re single, that mysterious stranger might not be so mysterious after all—trust your gut. Couples, let the moonlight be your guide to a romantic rendezvous— candlelit dinners under the lunar glow, anyone? Health comes into focus under the full moon’s spotlight. Balance is key, so indulge in self-care rituals that make you feel like a celestial being. The full moon on the 24th brings peace. Make getting a good night’s rest a priority.

Leo

(July 23– August 22 On the professional stage, your inner strength takes the centre role. Tackle challenges with the tenacity of a seasoned problem-solver and there won’t be any obstacle a Lion can’t conquer this month. Don’t forget to treat yourself as well. Jennifer’s Gluten-Free Kitchen has an exquisite array of sweets for the discerning taste buds. Why not bring a few delectable morsels home for the family as well?

Breaking up the routine ensures that Groundhog Day doesn’t happen every day. Enjoy the extra leap day on the 29th. Go forth and conquer!

Virgo

(August 23– Septembe Virgo, February is beckoning you to trade your checklist for a compass and venture into the great outdoors. Mother Nature is throwing down a snow-covered bounty, and you're invited to bring your impeccable organizational skills to the wilderness. Health takes a positive turn this month. Swap the gym for a trail, and let the outdoors be your personal trainer. Nature’s gym is open 24/7, and the admission fee is just a sense of adventure.

Libra

(September 23– October 22) At work, the shadows hold secrets waiting to be revealed. Dive into projects with the intuition of a tarot reader; your instincts will be your guiding stars. Trust the unseen forces that nudge you toward innovative solutions and creative endeavors. Dream up some romantic plans for Valentine’s Day. This time, the Scales need to take the lead role, and this air sign won’t be disappointed with what’s in store!

Scorpio

(October 23– November 21) Scorpio, embrace your artsy side this February. Let your creativity flow like a river, and watch as it brings colour and vibrancy to every aspect of your life.

You’re the maestro of your own masterpiece, so paint the canvas of February with the bold strokes of your imagination. The new moon on the 9th brings clarity of thought. What goals and visions do Scorpions have this year? Write them down for posterity.

Sagittarius

(November 22– December 21) Hold onto your arrows, Sagittarius, because February is your month to shoot for the stars and set the world ablaze with your infectious energy. The cosmic Archer is locked, loaded, and ready to crush goals like a superhero in a blockbuster film. Applying balance when necessary is key. Work hard and play hard? Don’t forget to take a time-out with a tantalizing tome. Sometimes curling up with a book is an exercise of self-love.

Capricorn

(December 22– January 19) In the world of work, it seems Goats have got a hankering for some serious success. Grab your business hat and strut into that entrepreneur game like you own the joint. The 2nd brings Imbolc, the halfway point between the winter and spring equinox. In the midst of dark and snow, take heart that the daylight hours are indeed beginning to lengthen. Keep an eye on energy levels and do rest when feeling called to do so. Seek solace under the full moon’s light.

Aquarius

(January 20– February 18) Professionally, focus on efficiency. Streamline your tasks, set realistic goals, and stick to your deadlines. The nononsense approach will elevate your productivity and garner respect from your peers. Health-wise, it's time to be pragmatic. Establish a routine that combines exercise and a balanced diet. Skip the fad diets and stick to the basics—your body will thank you. Spend some time thinking about the new Lunar New Year of the Dragon on the 10th. How can Water-Bearers best bring some dragon energy into their own life? A romantic evening in and around the 14th takes on special meaning.

Pisces

(February 19– March 20) The stars are advocating self-care this month my Fishies, and it’s time to heed the call. Indulge in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation. Whether it's stargazing, a bubble bath, or cosying up with a good book, prioritize your well-being. Let the cosmic energies guide you to moments of joy, love, and tranquility. Getting involved with some community events brings a spring to this water sign’s step and makes the heart feel full. The new moon on the 9th brings about thoughts of travel.

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King of the Coastline By Sidney Ulakovic

My golden beach, your ephemeral heat a careless caress, capricious summer. And in my dreams, seasons would never meet; there would only be your wildfire forever. You push me aside when the tide grows high, bored by my unwavering devotion. Wild drought dries the picnics of July, summertime still spent beside the ocean. Unforgiving summer, you scald my heart watch me peel myself raw for your touch. Once autumn’s withering has got its start, I’ll soon be freed of your magnetic clutch. And as your fervour starts to disappear, I’ll wait here patiently until next year.

Unforgiving Summer, digital illustration, boy Roland

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“ You can’t train love and compassion. The people here truly care.” Robbie Family of a former St. Joseph’s Care Group client

Growing up, Robbie Brescia wondered, as most people do, what would happen to his parents when they got older and were no longer able to care for themselves at home.

So we’re going to get you to where you need to be.” Her demeanor soon became much more upbeat.

“They’re your parents and you love them, but one day you know they may not be able to care for themselves, this happened to my parents. You always have that fear that I’m going to leave my parents with someone else and they won’t be able to care for them like family can. But it’s being truthful to yourself that you can’t do it all, and you may need specialized help.”

He says that the attitudes he encountered aren’t part in a job description, you can’t write “care” into a job description, a person has to have that as part of their being. There has to be a passion for the work.

Robbie’s fears were put at ease when his Dad moved into long-term care at Hogarth Riverview Manor and later, when his mother entered the Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitative Care (GARC) program at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

“When my father went to Hogarth (I knew) it was the right thing because the minute you walked in, you saw the care and your fears subsided.” “With the GARC program, I can’t say enough because they’ve been that extended support to take care of my mother.” The GARC program provides a ‘tune up’ for seniors who can still remain in their home independently but need some support to regain confidence in their ability to remain independent. “And then knowing that you have the team of the Care Group that can help you, support you and lift you up along the journey. I can’t say enough because it’s given me the ability to continue to function and live knowing that we have this support for them. They not only gave the support to my family, but did amazing work with my Mum. She even enjoyed riding the bike, something she had never done before.”

“And they all did it… there was no other motive except for care and compassion and seeing her regain some of her mobility.” Robbie recalls an incident that illustrated the easy nature of life at Hogarth Riverview Manor. “They had bingo and the staff called me and said, ‘Where would you like us to put your father’s winnings? My Dad had never played bingo in his life, and I’m thinking, what winnings? What did he do? Dad later told me, ‘Yeah, I won a $1.75.’ Those little activities, the social activity meant the world to him and to our family. There is always the care, but it’s also about the social aspect for many people who are lonely and isolated.”

“You see the care and the love. They make it the best that they can make it. It’s comfortable and that’s important.” Robbie recalls seeing a sign posted in the dining room at St. Joseph’s Heritage that sums up the staff attitude: “We don’t work where they live. We work in their home.” Robbie expressed thanks to the Care Group for giving more care than they have to, “for being that family member and for giving that virtual hug because I think sometimes when we’re going through these journeys, that’s what we need the most.” “I know with the Care Group, it always feels that you have that warm comforter around you. Without the the Care Group, where would we be? We’d be maybe having different stories.” “Now that I do know (I think), wow, it’s a they do a lot.” Because of this caring attitude and the compassion for their clients my mom has become a donor to the Foundation. She wants to give back to those that helped her regain some of her independence.”

St. Joseph’s Foundation is honoured to share the “Caring Moments” stories from our clients and their families. Each story tells their personal experience with the care and compassion provided by the staff of St. Joseph’s Care Group. Become a part of the Caring Moments program and share your gift of gratitude through your personal story or by making a donation in appreciation of the care your family received.

Donate today www.sjftb.net/caring-moments

Robbie said that when his mom began needing geriatric support she said, ‘I didn’t picture this for myself.’ But the staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital created another picture that said, “here’s how we’re going to help you and here’s how we’re going to take care of you.

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Ricky Paquette of The Sheepdogs performs live at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on January 21 Photo by Emily Turner

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February 2024

Articles inside

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Crooked Little Heart