March 2020 by The Walleye Magazine

FILM FREE ARTS Vol. 11 No. 3 MUSIC MARCH FOOD 2020 CULTURE thewalleye.ca

Loving Spoonfuls The Soup Issue

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Contents

walleye the

FEATURES

Thunder Bay’s arts & culture alternative

■ 9

CoverStory: Loving Spoonfuls ■ 17 Soup By the Numbers ■ 18 Giving Hope Today

Editor-in-chief Darren McChristie Editor Adrian Lysenko adrian@thewalleye.ca Assistant Editor Rebekah Skochinski Senior Editor Tiffany Jarva Copy Editors Amy Jones, Bonnie Schiedel

FOOD

Park Store

FILM&THEATRE

Marketing & Sales Specialist Kaitlin Trevisan kaitlin@thewalleye.ca

■ 30 Cottagers and Indians ■ 32 Five Bucks at the Door ■ 34 Irish Movies ■ 36 The Princess of Peace,

Alaina Linklater alaina@thewalleye.ca Photographers Patrick Chondon, Kevin Dempsey, Damien Gilbert, Chad Kirvan, Dave Koski, Kay Lee, Shannon Lepere, Marty Mascarin, Darren McChristie, Sarah McPherson, Laura Paxton, Keegan Richard

■ 20 Souprise! ■ 22 Cooking with Beer ■ 24 Passport Around the World ■ 27 Saintly Spirit ■ 28 A New Home for Brent

■ 73 Marlena Pellegrino ■ 74 The Simon and ■ 77 ■ 78 ■ 80 ■ 82 ■ 85 ■ 86 ■ 88

Garfunkel Story Noondaagotoon 3 Folk-Roots Duo Flocks to New Nest Rodent Bliss Sarah Harmer Blues Blast 2020 Respecting the Roots of Solo Success Sibelius Sings

■ 40 Kitchen Window ■ 41 The 100 Day Project ■ 42 From Argentina to Ontario ■ 44 Exploring New Mediums

■ 94 The Scoop on Colon

THE ARTS

Ad Designers Dave Koski, Miranda van den Berg

■ 48 Temple Grandin ■ 50 Ill Effects ■ 52 That’s the Spirit ■ 56 Beyond Words ■ 58 XSPEX Optical Inc. ■ 61 With Brian Hamilton ■ 62 Wax Nostalgic

■ 46 Journey to the

Junior Iditarod

CITYSCENE

MUSIC

ARCHITECTURE

OUTDOOR

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

to Thunder Bay ■ 68 Rose N Crantz Roasting Co. ■ 70 Waving Our Flag

Love, and Pride ■ 39 Can’t Help Falling In Love

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

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

■ 66 Raptors Superfan Coming

■ 92 The Caledonia Building HEALTH

Cancer Screening

GREEN

■ 101

Back to Basics

■ 21 Drink of the Month ■ 54 Stuff We Like ■ 64 This is Thunder Bay ■ 90 Off the Wall Reviews ■ 96 Tbaytel March EVENTS ■ 98 Music EVENTS ■ 99 LU Radio's Monthly Top 20 ■ 102 The Wall ■ 104 Horoscopes ■ 105 The Beat ■ 106 The Eye

Copyright © 2020 by Superior Outdoors Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial and Advertising: Submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Superior Outdoors cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. Superior Outdoors Inc. 314 Bay Street Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1S1

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From Our Instagram feed

(L-R) Nina Lysenko and Nadia Serhijczuk

Battle of the Borscht

rowing up, the first language that I learned was Ukrainian. Although I’m extremely rusty in conversation, most of the words that stuck with me are names of food. This probably came from being in the kitchen with my grandmothers, who would watch my sister and me while my parents were working. Aside from varenyky (perogies), borscht was the second most common dish they made. But with my grandmothers growing up in different parts of Ukraine, the ingredients for the staple soup would often differ. These variations include whether to add potatoes, beans, tomatoes, pork, or beef, but there are also some borscht recipes with different colours (green or white) and the soup can be prepared hot or cold. But although their methods differed, they were both delicious. Over the years, I’ve developed my own hybrid recipe, which I hope my grandmothers would have enjoyed. As a friend of mine from Ukraine said after having a bowl of my creation, “It’s good, but it’s not borscht.” Fine with me. Although March brings the official arrival of spring, it might not feel like it in Northwestern Ontario, so what better month to chow down

The Walleye

on a hot bowl of soup? From pho to cream of colcannon, in our cover story we’ve reviewed 20 different types of soup from restaurants around the city. Plus, Kim Latimer rides along in Salvation Army’s soup van, and Bonnie Schiedel provides some stats and facts about soup. Also in the issue, Ken Wright offers readers a sneak peek at Thunder Bay Blues Society’s Blues Blast concert; I speak with the filmmaker behind Five Bucks at the Door, a documentary that explores the impact Crocks N Rolls had not only locally but on the Canadian music scene; and Savanah Tillberg talks to the artists whose work is featured in the Lakehead University Honours Exhibition at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. Getting back to borscht, I agree with actress and writer Gertrude Berg who considered the dish a weather vane. “When my family says they want hot borscht, I know winter is coming, and when they want cold borscht, I know how far can spring be behind?” Well, we definitely know winter has arrived, so here’s hoping to serve up some cold borscht soon. -Adrian Lysenko

Featured Contributor Michael Charlebois Born and raised in Northwestern Ontario, Michael Charlebois took off to Ottawa to pursue a journalism degree at Carleton University. After he had directly been told there was “no money” and “no jobs” in the “dying industry,” he fulfilled this prophecy by moving back home to live in his parents’ basement after graduating. Despite this, Michael rolls with the punches in typical NWO fashion by doing freelance work for The Walleye and two local sports teams. He’ll happily talk to you about basketball and music if prompted. Check out Michael’s music story about Two Crows for Comfort’s concert at Algoma House on page 78.

On the Cover Tom Ka Gai from Thai Kitchen Photograph by Kay Lee

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entrepreneurcentre.ca| Local: 807.625.3960 | Toll Free: 1.800.668.9360 6

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TheTOPFive

Giant 1 Sleeping Loppet March 7

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

John Sims

Ski the Giant! Now in its 43rd year, the Sleeping Giant Loppet is a much-loved mass participation ski festival offering skiing fun for everyone. Set in the beautiful wilderness of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, the Loppet features multiple events and distances for skiers of all levels, abilities, and ages. The 8 km Mini-Loppet is perfect for children, families, or first-timers. There’s also the rolling 20 km Marie Louise Lake loop, the popular 35 km tour, and the ultimate challenge: the 50 km classic, skate, or skiathlon distance. Top prizes will be handed out in several categories, including The Walleye’s popular Flashback Award that goes to the skier kitted out in the best retro clothing and gear. Plus there will be snacks, warm beverages, and cheers from volunteers along the route for all! sleepinggiantloppet.ca

TBSO Pops 5: 2 Jeans ‘n Classics Bohemian Queen

March 7

Derek Schmidt and Michelle Clarke, winners of the 2019 Flashback Award

3 Music for The Gym March 13

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

Oliver Road Community Centre

You know the music, you’ve seen the movie, but you’ve yet to experience this! The Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with the Jeans ‘n Classic band and Michael Shotton to rock you with a high-energy tribute to the late and legendary Freddie Mercury and Queen. Since forming in the 1970s, Queen has proven to be one of the most important rock bands in music history, with unforgettable dramatic anthems and over-the-top songs that push every boundary. Sing along to “Somebody to Love,” “We Will Rock You,” “Under Pressure” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “A Kind of Magic,” “Another One Michael Shotton Bites the Dust,” “Killer Queen,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and more! The show starts at 7:30 pm, with Maria Fuller conducting.

It’s the fifth year for this musical benefit in support of The Underground Gym, and it’s needed more than ever. Help the gym carry on providing activities like cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and bowling to underprivileged youth in our community. Returning to host this year are John Dolce and Quayson Williams. Dolce is a regular on the music scene, and Williams and his band The Shortstops have been turning heads with their performances at the Thunder Bay Blues Society Blues House Parties. Come out for a great evening of music and fun for a great cause. Tickets are $10 and are available at Music World on Simpson Street or by calling 474-6784. Doors open at 7 pm. Refreshments will be available.

tbso.ca

4 Shamrock Shakedown March 14

Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. Looking for a little luck of the Irish? Look no further! You can shake your shamrock at the Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.’s Shamrock Shakedown in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy delicious draft beer, food, and music by super funk band The Thirsty Monks. But first, you have some choices to make. You can pay $10 for advance entry or $25 for entry, a beer token, and a fanny pack. Or, if you want a little more, you can sign up for beer school (roll call starts at 6 pm) and partake in beer and Irish whiskey pairings. Beer school costs $60 and includes a beer lover entry ticket. Tickets are available online, but the shakedown usually sells out so get those tickets ASAP! Proceeds from the festivities to support Our Kids Count. Runs from 7 pm–midnight. sleepinggiantbrewing.ca

guitar.thunderbay@gmail.com

(L-R) John Dolce and Quayson Williams

5 The Glorious Sons March 23

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Are you ready for The Glorious Sons? They’re ready for you. This Canadian rock band from Kingston is stopping by in the city as part of their A War on Everything North American headlining tour to support the celebrated release of their new album. Alternative Press calls their 14-track LP a collection of stadium-ready “dirty, sweaty rock.” The record sets the band off on a new chapter on the heels of their success of landing their first Billboard #1 hit with “S.O.S. (Sawed Off Shotgun)” and playing some massive shows with The Rolling Stones and Twenty One Pilots. Joining them on this Canadian leg of their tour are special guests Black Pistol Fire. Tickets are available online. tbca.com

The Walleye Walleye

7 1

Your Four Season Wedding Destination

Spring

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Dates still available for 2021. Save your date soon! www.bwplusnorwester.com Norâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Wester Hotel & Conference Centre 2080 Highway 61 Thunder Bay Ontario TF: 1 (888) 473-2378 PH: 1 (807) 473-9123 CATERING: 1 (807) 473-2453 Catering@bwplusnorwester.com 8

The Walleye

CoverStory

Loving Spoonfuls W

Chad Kirvan

e’ve been eating and enjoying soup for centuries. While it’s great any time of year (and any time of day), we wanted to put soup front and centre for the March issue because soup represents a blending of ingredients and flavours, textures, and colours. It’s the perfect bridge between seasons. So whether that winter chill lingers, or we receive an early spring surprise, soup will be there to see us through. We sourced and tasted 20 soups from around the city, including borscht, pho, mojakka, delicious daily specials, and more. All the soup for you!

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CoverStory

Special Pho ◄ The Place: Pho Umami 845 May Street 623-1888 The Price: $15.90 The Basics: Pho rice noodles, cuts of rare beef, beef flank, and beef balls, white onion, fresh bean sprouts, cilantro, and fresh green onion all in a beef bone soup stock The Lowdown: Pho is a popular Vietnamese soup made of broth, rice noodles, meat, and herbs. The Special Pho at Pho Umami is an incredible rendition of

Borscht ▲

Tom Ka Gai ▲ The Place: Thai Kitchen 11 Cumberland Street South 345-1707 The Price: $9.95, or $12.95 with rice The Basics: Coconut milk, chicken, mushrooms, Thai chillies, lemongrass, lime leaf, and galanga The Lowdown: Rich and creamy, spicy and sour, Tom Ka Gai is comfort in a bowl. This popular Thai soup is light, yet filling.

10 The Walleye

the traditional soup, with ample amounts of meat and flavour. The rice noodles sit in a rich beef broth that warms the body and soul with each slurp. Above the noodles lies a medley of different cuts of beef, each type adding a slightly different flavour profile to the soup. Grab a bite with some of the green onion and bean sprouts for some extra crispiness. The large portion size and delicious ingredients make sure you always leave full and satisfied. Review and Photo by Aelin Foster

Rich, creamy, and mildly sweet coconut milk is balanced with the tang of lime leaf and lemongrass, and the spice of galanga and Thai chillies. Tender mushrooms and chicken provide extra substance to this warming broth. Seek solace in this soup on a cold winter day, or any time you’re craving a little warmth. Review by Nancy Saunders, Photo by Kay Lee

The Place: Kangas Sauna 379 Oliver Road 344-6761 The Price: $6.60 (small); $7.20 (large) The Basics: Beets, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and pork The Lowdown: Is there a better way to start your week than a hearty and delicious bowl of borscht? Made fresh on Mondays and served with a dollop of sour cream

and a sprig of dill on top, Kangas’ version of the Ukrainian soup sticks to the roots of a traditional recipe, finding that perfect blend of sweet and sour. Exactly how this is achieved the chef wouldn’t divulge, but it’s most likely a recipe going back to the old country. Rich in flavour, with big chunks of beets and tender pieces of pork, this borscht is just like how baba used to make it. Review and Photo by Adrian Lysenko

CoverStory

Beef Barley Soup ▲ The Place: Prospector Steak House 27 Cumberland Street South 345-5833 The Price: Included in salad bar, $19.50 The Basics: Prime rib beef, barley, broth reduction, carrots, celery, and onions The Lowdown: Given the legacy of The Prospector, I think we can safely add another ingredient to the list: time. Their broth simmers for five hours, which leads to

Clear Tom Yum The Place: Salween Restaurant 505 Simpson Street 285-8600 The Price: $11.95 The Basics: Mushrooms, tomatoes, lemongrass, lime leaf, and your choice of shrimp, chicken, or beef, garnished with fresh cilantro and green onions The Lowdown: An aromatic experience of a classic Southeast Asian soup, served hot and steamy in a large tureen with bowls to serve, this dish is big on fresh herbs and rich flavours. Each bite carries the bright

a perfectly decadent base. Ingredients are added while the soup simmers away, so the prime rib stays chunky, the veggies firm, and the barley just buttery enough. Comforting and filling, this soup perfectly pairs with a fireside seat and a spirited beverage. Oh, and you can’t forget some of those fresh Prospector buns to soak up the last drops. Review by Justin Allec, Photo by Adrian Lysenko

▲ flavours of lime and lemongrass sure to soothe the soul (and sinuses) of patrons in the worst cold season. Juicy shrimp paired with mushrooms offer a contrast in textures that is complementary and delicious. The accoutrements of fresh cilantro and green onion are a joyful addition to this hot dish. The soup can be ordered in your choice of mild, medium, or hot. Mild is a safe bet if you are sensitive to heat. Review by Alaina Linklater, Photo by Bree Bousquet

Signature Wild Rice Cranberry Soup ► The Place: The Silver Birch 28 Cumberland Street North 345-0597 The Price: $7 The Basics: Onions, celery, carrots, wild rice, cranberries, and vegetable stock The Lowdown: Silver Birch chef and owner Darlene Green describes her signature soup as “Christmas in a bowl.” The combination of sweet and savoury is irresistibly fragrant

and creamy. The wild rice comes from Wabigoon and provides delightful nuttiness and texture.The soup goes perfectly with their famous complimentary beer bread and balsamic dip. It’s hearty enough to warm you right up after coming in from the cold, but light enough not to take away from your enjoyment of the rest of the meal. Review by Ayano Hodouchi Dempsey, Photo by Kevin Dempsey

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CoverStory

French Onion Soup ▲ The Place: Daytona's 965A Cobalt Crescent 622-2169 The Price: $7.25 The Basics: Swiss and Gruyere cheese, croutons, pea shoots, and onion The Lowdown: Topped with fried crispy onions and plenty of Swiss and Gruyère cheese, and presented with perky pea shoots sprinkled on top, this soup packs an

impressive visual punch. You just can’t help salivating over it before diving into the first bite. The cheese and baguette layer gives way to the savoury broth. Jam-packed with onions, this bowl would be super-filling just on its own. Ask for extra napkins, as it’s a special kind of gooey heaven. Review by Susan Pretty, Photo by Damien Gilbert

Ramen ▲ The Place: Bight Restaurant & Bar 2201 Sleeping Giant Parkway, Unit 100 622-4448 The Price: $21 The Basics: Ramen noodles, broth, vegetables and a protein (varies weekly— photographed version includes chicken tonkatsu, chicken bone and miso broth, baby bok choy, sous vide egg, daikon radish, edamame, and pickled fresnos) The Lowdown: When it comes to creating a gastronomic experience, no dish compares to the ramen from Bight. Why praise this dish so highly? It’s simple. Not only does the ramen satisfy diners with

delicious flavours, phenomenal textures, and inviting colours, it also intrigues patrons with its weekly changing recipe. What’s more, all these new recipes remain a secret until their Wednesday morning release on social media. Although the ingredients change on a weekly basis, diners should be prepared to taste beautifully cooked ramen noodles in a rich miso broth. Every bowl will also feature an array of gorgeous vegetables, flavoured with amazing spices and topped with a perfectly cooked piece of meat or plant protein. All this goodness in one bowl could easily inspire any ramen fan to start visiting Bight on a weekly basis. Review and Photo by Chad Kirvan

Avgolemono (Lemon and Egg) Soup ◄ The Place: Naxos Grille & Bar 610 Arthur Street West 475-3886 The Price: $6 The Basics: Chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, eggs, and rice. The Lowdown: Avgolemono is the national soup of Greece. It’s rich and frothy,

12 The Walleye

and despite its creaminess, it actually contains no dairy—egg whites are whipped and frothed before being combined with the other ingredients, giving the lemon-flavoured soup a light and airy presentation with just a bit of texture provided by the semi-blended rice. Review and Photo by Nik Fiorito

Mojakka

CoverStory

▼

The Place: Hoito 314 Bay Street 345-6323 The Price: $5.99 (small); $8.99 (large) The Basics: Beef-based broth with whole allspice and hearty chunks of beef roast, potato, carrots, turnip, and celery, served with rye bread The Lowdown: Mojakka is a North American twist on a fish-only soup from the coast of Finland. The Hoito’s version of mojakka is over 100 years in the making—a nod to hearty bush camp cooking that

certainly doesn’t disappoint. The ratio of the broth to vegetables is near perfection, and the whole allspice paired with the beef roast gives it that homemade Finn taste. It’s one of the restaurant’s top sellers and one of the only places in town where you can order traditional mojakka as well as kalakeitto (a cream-based fish soup with fresh dill). A small serving is more than enough to satisfy one person, especially on a cold winter’s day. Review by Tiffany Jarva, Photo by Bree Bousquet

Special Noodle Soup ▲ The Place: Village Market Kitchen 336 Wardrope Avenue 767-4541 The Price: $13 The Basics: Egg noodles, wontons, broccoli, carrots, baby corn, napa cabbage, mushrooms, celery, chicken, shrimp, barbecue pork, and chicken broth The Lowdown: Village Market Kitchen is tucked away at the top of County Park, and if you aren’t in the know, you just might

miss it. Serving a large variety of authentic Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, it is probably best known for its Special Noodle Soup. It comes in a huge bowl loaded with over 12 fresh ingredients and so much flavour. You will most likely be full well before finishing it, but you will do so anyway, not wanting to waste even one delicious spoonful. The real challenge is not coming in the next day to do it all over again! Review by Anne Chondon, Photo by Patrick Chondon

Tomato and Fennel Soup ► The Place: Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar 727 Hewitson Street 628-8588 The Price: $8 The Basics: Plum tomatoes, fennel, carrots, onion, celery, and cream, garnished with a pizza dough and prosciutto twist The Lowdown: The Caribou featured soup of the day never disappoints. The tomato and fennel soup is no exception. This warm and creamy soup is prepared with roasted

plum tomatoes and fennel, blended until smooth and finished with cream. But make no mistake, this is not your mother’s tomato soup recipe. Caribou’s version has a subtle heat to it, from the licorice-y fennel and anise seed, that will make you want to savour every last drop. Garnished with the most delicious twisted bread knot stuffed with prosciutto, you’ll have no excuse not to wipe your bowl clean. Review and Photo by Tanja Coghill

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CoverStory

Special Wonton Soup The Place: JJ’s Family Restaurant 112 Centennial Square 622-5211 The Price: $11.99 The Basics: Barbecue pork, carrots, broccoli, wontons, and soft noodles The Lowdown: What makes this Special Wonton Soup so special is the contrast of textures and flavours. A hearty meat broth serves as the base for the tender slices of pork, lightly cooked broccoli, and crisp medallions of carrot. Delicate strands of soft lo mein noodles are nestled at the

Ribollita (Tuscan Bread Soup) ▲ The Place: Nook 271 Bay Street 285-7775 The Price: $5 (small) or $8 (large) The Basics: Cabbage, kale, potatoes, bok choy, white beans, carrot The Lowdown: Ribollita is an earthy Tuscan white bean soup that features boiled-down bread, root vegetables, and a Asian twist with bok choy rounding it out.

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It comes paired with Nook’s house-made Italian-style baguette and yes, dipping is mandatory. The flavour is simple and rustic, and the bok choy adds a crisp texture to balance out the rest of the vegetables. Perfect for a lunch date spent basking in the plentiful natural light in the space or as a side for dinner paired with red sauce pasta and a glass of primitivo. Review and Photo by Tyler Sklazeski

▼

bottom with crunchy chow mein noodles balanced on top. Each bowl comes with six pork wontons, with an option to have them fried to a crispy golden brown. Either way, they are plump pockets of pleasure. The soup is served with Sriracha and garlic chili paste on the side for you to drizzle to your spicy heart’s content. It is available for takeout, but if you dine in you’ll experience why this charming south-side restaurant is such a long-standing favourite. Review by Rebekah Skochinski, Photo by Shannon Lepere

CoverStory

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi The Place: up shot coffeehouse 111½ May Street South 475-5454 The Price: $3.50 for a small or $6 for a large The Basics: Chicken, gnocchi, carrots, and spinach The Lowdown: With tender pieces of chicken and melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi, every spoonful of up shot’s soup is a

Vegan Potato Dill Soup The Place: In Common 40 Cumberland Street South 344-4450 The Price: $5.65 The Basics: Olive oil, onions, garlic, coconut milk, vegetable stock, dill, potatoes, garnished with choice of toppings (green onions, sesame seeds, cheese); gluten-free and vegan The Lowdown: This aromatic soup of the day warms the body while the In Common experience warms the heart.

▲

delightful surprise. It’s creamy but not too rich and the spinach leaves, as well as slivers of carrots (along with some mystery spices) bring everything together. Although it’s considered one of their soups of the day, check ahead to see when it’s available. Made in-house and from scratch by the owners, the creamy chicken gnocchi soup is perfect for a cold winter day or the early spring thaw. Review and Photo by Adrian Lysenko

▲

Featuring local potatoes roasted then pureed with their skins on, this comforting dish is complemented by home-baked seed crackers and is just what is needed on a chilly winter’s day. In addition to serving their loyal and growing following of customers, In Common aims to help those in need to dine well, offering “pay it forward” meals to those in need. The goal is to not let anyone go hungry and to show love and generosity. Review by Pat Forrest, Photo by Laura Paxton

Beef Cabbage Soup of the Day ► The Place: The Sal 118 Frederica Street West 577-8635 The Price: $3.50 a cup, $5 a bowl The Basics: Beef, cabbage, onion, celery, carrot, tomato, broth, salt and pepper The Lowdown: Inspired by the food made by the immigrant population of the west end, The Sal’s beef and cabbage soup is a delicious medley of meat and veggies. The cabbage, celery, tomatoes, carrots,

and onion are cooked perfectly, with every spoonful full of flavour. Each piece of beef is tender and juicy, and the rich broth complements the rest of the ingredients without overpowering them. So whether you're looking for a soup like your baba used to make or just looking for something to warm the heart, this beef and cabbage soup is the one for you. (Please note that the soup of the day changes regularly.) Review and Photo by Aelin Foster

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Creamy Potato and Dill ▲ The Place: The Bean Fiend Cafe & Sandwich Bar 194 Algoma Street South 768-2326 The Price: $6.95, or $14 for the sandwich combo The Basics: Potato, dill, onion, garlic, vegetable stock, and coconut milk The Lowdown: With its harmonious blended combination of potatoes, onion,

and garlic (possibly the holy trinity of soup ingredients), Bean Fiend’s soup is smooth and delicious. The fresh dill and hint of coconut milk also add a nice accent. Made in-house, this vegan and gluten-free soup is filling but not “I need to nap for the rest of the day” filling. Grab a Diablo sandwich (a hipster spin on the hot Italian sandwich with its dill havarti and aioli) to make it a combo. Review and Photo by Adrian Lysenko

Potato Barley Soup ▲ The Place: Red Lion Smokehouse 16 Cumberland Street South 286-0045 The Price: $6 The Basics: Potatoes, barley, carrots, red peppers, corn, beef stock, topped with cornbread crumble and deep-fried parsley The Lowdown: This is a delicious, stick-toyour ribs soup that will warm your belly and leave you feeling wholly satisfied. With loads of savoury potatoes, barley, and vegetables, it’s a simple and subtly

flavoured dish that’s perfect for cold winter days. Kitchen manager Justin Burla makes all of Red Lion’s daily soups, changing them up week to week and keeping the menu seasonal. A variety of hearty soups and stews will be on offer throughout the cooler months, all perfect with a side of house-made cornbread or Caesar salad. A steal of a deal for lunch, dinner, and take-out. Review by Kat Lyzun, Photo by Michael McKenzie

Cream of Colcannon The Place: Food Bébé 270 Bay Street 768-2323 The Price: $6, or get the lunch special with a sandwich and side soup for $14 The Basics: Maple bacon, caramelized onion, cabbage, potato, real cream, aged white cheddar, and bone broth made in-house The Lowdown: Food Bébé has created their own spin on a traditional Irish recipe, colcannon, an Irish staple prepared with chopped kale or green cabbage mixed with mashed potatoes and served with

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◄

beef. The cream of colcannon soup offers a light creamy texture with melt-in-yourmouth cabbage and potatoes. With every bite you will taste a subtle sweetness from the maple bacon and caramelized onions. Pair it with bread from Roma Bakery with drizzled olive oil for dipping, or with a grilled sandwich for the perfect meal. Food Bébé offers the taste of a home-cooked meal mixed with great company, atmosphere, and locally sourced ingredients that will ensure your return. Review by Kaitlin Trevisan, Photo by Sarah McPherson

CoverStory

Soup

Did you know?

By the Numbers

The word soup comes from French (soupe, a soup or broth), derived from Latin (suppa, or bread soaked in broth)8

By Bonnie Schiedel

20,000

392,070,000

Did you know?

Number of units of canned or boxed soup sold in Canada between 2014 and 20155

World record time to find and alphabetize the letter noodles in a can of ALPHABET SOUP, set in Texas in 20182

1,000

Number of pounds of “pocket soup” taken by Captain Cook on his 1772 voyage to Australia. An early form of dehydrated soup and also known as “portable soup,” it was made of meat broth, spices and vegetables, then dried. It was also a part of the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition to the Pacific Ocean, and soldiers’ meal rations during the Crimean War (1853-56)11

26,658

The Ojibway word for soup is “NABOOB.” Wild rice, dried berries, game, fiddleheads, corn, and fish are all traditional ingredients12

1897

Amount in litres of the world record LARGEST BOWL OF SOUP (that's comparable to an 12x24 foot pool), created in the Netherlands in 2009. Ingredients included 7,440 kg (16, 402 lb) of tomatoes, 450 kg (992 lb) bell peppers, 3.5 kg (7 lb) parsley, 2,503 pieces of garlic, 125 kg (275 lb) tomato paste, and 48 litres (12.68 gallons) of olive oil3

Year that condensed canned soup was invented by Dr. John T. Torrance, a chemist at Campbell’s7

4,000+

24%

of respondents in a survey of 2,000 Americans who admitted passing off canned soup as homemade. One in 10 of respondents report that they have eaten soup naked10

483 g

The amount of soup eaten to set the world record for the most soup eaten in 30 seconds (that’s just over 2 cups or 500 ml). It was set in Germany in 20171

Age of the oldest example of pottery bowls, thought to be used for cooking liquids (possibly alcohol, possibly soup), discovered in Xianrendong Cave, China in 20124

3 MIN, 21 SEC

WALLEYE 101

Age in years of Mesopotamian stone tablets that include recipes for soups and stews. A sample: “Meat is used. You prepare water. You add fine-grained salt, dried barley cakes, onion, Persian shallot, and milk. You crush and add leek and garlic.”9

3 MINUTES

Length of time holding a warm cup that resulted in more positive feelings and desire to help others, compared to holding a cold cup, according to a 2017 Japanese study6

https://guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/405959-most-soup-eaten-in-30-seconds/, 2https://guinnessworldrecords.com/ world-records/460108-fastest-time-to-find-and-alphabetise-the-letters-in-a-can-of-alphabet-soup, 3https://guinnessworldrecords. com/world-records/largest-bowl-of-soup. 4https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2012Sci...336.1696W/abstract, 5https://www.statista.com/ statistics/484189/sales-volume-of-soup-canada/, 6https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707871/, 7https://www.campbells.com/ campbell-history/, 8https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soup and https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soup, 9http://www.bbc.com/travel/ story/20191103-the-worlds-oldest-known-recipes-decoded, 10https://www.campbellsoupcompany.com/newsroom/press-releases/campbellsunveils-8-surprising-facts-about-how-americans-eat-soup/, 11https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/food/the-plate/2014/09/25/theluke-warm-gluey-history-of-portable-soup/, 12https://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu/main-entry/naboob-ni 1

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CoverStory sandwiches, the Salvation Army gives soup and hot chocolate, and Tim Hortons donates leftover pastries. Some days there’s only soup and hot chocolate, which runs out quickly. “One of the advantages of being mobile is we can identify an area that has more high-need people or families, and we can move into that area easily. We have no real estate, no bricks and mortar so we just go where we feel the need is,” says Cathy Oleschuk, program services manager, Salvation Army Thunder Bay. On this evening, they handed out 45 soups and 55 sandwiches. Fournier says one night he served 90 people in 30 minutes. “We had to move fast that night,” he says. “It was busy and cold.” The number of people served varies day to day, but volunteers on the van have served as many as 240 people in one night. “When it’s 40 below and you see a mom come out with her four kids, you know they really need a meal,” says Oleschuk. “We have a lot of seniors that come too.” She says the van also offers people a chance to interact. “The beauty of the drivers is that they have

The Salvation Army soup van

Giving Hope Today Soup Van Also Serves Compassion, Care, and Hope Story and photos by Kim Latimer

“G

iving Hope Today” is the slogan written on the side of the Salvation Army soup van. It’s a Wednesday night in February and the van is discreetly parked on a sleepy street corner just off Simpson Street, in Thunder Bay’s south end. A man in his forties, wearing a toque and carrying a backpack, walks up to the van window. “Hello Steve, you want soups and sandwiches tonight?” the driver, Ron Fournier, asks him. Fournier and Wayne Hargrave, a volunteer, jump to action. Fornier takes three sandwiches out of a bin and passes them over. Hargrave hands Steve a coffee carrying tray with three steaming hot chocolates, three soups, and a

18 The Walleye

couple of muffins. Steve fills his small bag. “I have to get right back home. My son is waiting for me,” he says, adding that this will be enough food to feed his eight-year-old son, his father, and himself for tonight. The Salvation Army soup van is Thunder Bay’s only mobile feeding program. It operates seven days a week, all year round including holidays. The van makes two stops in the highest need neighbourhoods, one 6 pm stop on the south side and 7 pm stop on the north end. For some, the food being offered is the only meal they’ll have all day. Wednesdays are a good day—on Wednesdays the Regional Food Distribution Association provides

compassion for the clients and it’s more than a meal, it’s a connection for people. For some, it’s the only time they speak to someone in their day. Our drivers and volunteers build relationships with people and if a regular doesn’t show up or is sick, we notice.” Oleschuk says it’s important not to make snap judgements about people who come for a meal. She says there was one man who would drive up in a nice car to get food. At first, she questioned why. “I thought: ‘This man doesn’t need to be here, he has a nicer vehicle than me.’ Later I learned that his wife had died, and he was homeless and living out of that car. The car was all he had.” “It’s really important that people don’t look down on those with food insecurity and do not assume things about people,” says Major Lori Mitchell, executive director of Salvation Army Thunder Bay Community and Residential Services. “We fully believe this program is a staple in the community,” The program began in the 1990s and has been feeding people every day for the past three decades. This year, funding from

CoverStory

Ron Fournier the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) was cut by the province. The soup van is now entirely reliant on local fundraising dollars, including money raised by their Christmas kettle drive. Mitchell says the Salvation Army fully intends to keep it going. Hargrave volunteers by helping serve soup onboard. He’s been helping out on the van for a few years and says he has been volunteering off and on for about 20 years. He used to be a client of the Salvation Army shelter. “It’s about helping others try to survive. They’ve helped me out, I was here [at the Salvation Army shelter] for a while,” he says. “I look forward to this—it gets me out and keeps me busy.” Fournier also knows what it’s like to be homeless. He spent time in a men’s shelter in Ottawa before returning to Thunder Bay, where he got back on his feet. He’s been driving the soup van now for 19 years. “I’m an old-school worker and If I didn’t have this job I don’t know where I’d be,” he says. “I’m always ready to go. I do the best I can with all my heart and this job means a lot to me. I have the best job in the world.”

(L-R) Wayne Hargrave and Ron Fournier Staff say Fournier has inadvertently saved lives many times on the job. He shares a couple of stories about times when he’s called 911 to help someone who may have otherwise lost their life. He’s found people unconscious on the street and has also witnessed violence, fights and a stabbing. “I’ll stay as long as I need to and help,” he says. “I have access to a phone on the van, and I’m here if someone needs help.” He points to business cards tucked into the trim inside the van that list hotlines for crisis response, and multilingual resources including a kid’s help line and Talk4Healing, who offer assistance in many languages including Cree, Ojibway, Oji-Cree, and English. “We’re a small beacon of light in a very dark world and we’re trying to make a difference,” says Fournier. “I see children and I can tell they don’t have very much at home. We try to do what we can to help and I think the need is greater than ever before.” To donate or volunteer for the Salvation Army soup van contact Gail Kromm, Community Engagement Manager, 345-6492, Gail_Kromm@can.salvationarmy.org, or visit satbcars.com or SalvationArmy.ca

Wayne Hargrave

The Walleye

Food You can mix the leftover pulverized basil leaves with chopped garlic and some Parmesan to make tasty pesto, too and you can put basil oil on anything, like pasta, roasted squash, or fresh bread. A funky little café where I later cooked served their (not roasted, but equally delicious) tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons that really are a cinch to make: cook up a grilled cheese sandwich, pressing down on it while it browns (or use a panini grill if you have one). Let the sandwich cool a few minutes, while the cheese sets a bit, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Yum!

THE GRINNING BELLY

Roasted Tomato Soup

Souprise!

Makes 4–6 servings

By Chef Rachel Globensky

once worked in an elegant inn, picturesquely tucked among towering pine and cottonwood trees, known for their celebrity clientele. Did I cook for Justin Timberlake and Jarome Iginla? I’ll never tell! Roasted tomato soup was the hotel’s signature soup, and as an eager young apprentice, I didn’t even question the chef’s (sole) use of canned tomatoes and liquid smoke. The end result was fabulous—like liquid velvet, served with a flourish of basil oil and a

sprinkling of chives (he called those “Chef’s Gold”), but was not, in fact, roasted anything soup. Here is my recipe, similar in taste to the soup served at the ritzy celeb hideout, but made with actual roasted tomatoes, and zero liquid smoke. If you want to be fancy and serve yours with a swirl of basil oil, it’s really quite easy: blend a few handfuls of fresh basil leaves with good quality olive oil, and strain through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Voila! Beautiful, aromatic basil oil.

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2½ lb fresh tomatoes (mix of any you’d like) 6 cloves garlic, peeled 2 small onions, peeled & sliced ⅓ c extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper

3 c chicken or veggie stock 2 bay leaves ¼ c butter ⅓ c chopped fresh basil leaves (optional)

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Preheat oven to 450°F. Wash, core, and halve the tomatoes. Place tomatoes, garlic, and onions on a parchmentpaper-lined baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20–30 minutes, or until caramelized but not charred. Remove veggies from the pan and place in a large stockpot. Add to the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s reached the boiling point, reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until liquid has reduced by one third. Remove bay leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth. You can run it through a food mill or strainer to make it silky smooth if you'd like, or you can continue on without that step. In either case, return soup to low heat. Add to soup and heat gently. Adjust taste with salt and pepper, if needed. (If you’ve strained your soup and it’s too thin, dissolve 1–2 tbsp cornstarch in ½ c cold water. Slowly pour a bit at a time into your simmering soup. It should thicken right away. Be careful, though—a little goes a long way, and it’s easy to end up with a gelatinous mess.) Serve garnished with grated Parmesan, more chopped fresh basil, or grilled cheese croutons.

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Food

Braising and Stewing One of my absolute favourite ways to cook with beer is braising or stewing. Whether using an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or Dutch oven, beer can easily be substituted for stocks, water, or wine. I like to use darker beers like Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.’s Skull Rock Stout for beef dishes like braised beef short ribs or hearty Irish stews. Pork and chicken dishes are better with lighter brews like wheat beers or lagers.

Beer Batter Who doesn’t love beer-battered food? It’s so light, crispy, golden brown, and delicious. Beer batters for dishes like fried fish and asparagus spears work best with lighter beers like Border Run Cream Ale from Dawson Trail Craft Brewery. Not only does beer add a delicious sweetness and crispness, but the carbonation also acts to lighten the batter.

BREW IT YOURSELF

Marinating

Cooking with Beer Braises, Breads, and Other Ways to Use Beer in the Kitchen

I don’t think it’s ever a bad idea to add some beer to a marinade. In addition to some sweetness, beer adds acidity, which helps tenderize the beef, chicken, tofu, or whatever protein you’re into cooking. I love to marinate chicken thighs in an IPA or crisp lager along with some Mexican seasonings. After coming off the grill, beer-marinated chicken thighs are wonderfully tender and perfect for tacos.

By Josh Armstrong, PhD, BJCP Certified Beer Judge

hile beer can be a delicious drink while relaxing and cooking in your kitchen, you can also just as easily use it in the dishes that you are creating. Many cooks like to use wine to add flavour and complexity in their cooking, but I think beer is much more versatile than crushed and fermented grapes. Because there are so many flavours found in today’s beer scene, beer can easily be incorporated in dishes, both savoury and sweet. The malted barley found in beer provides a depth of sweetness that can add great complexity to your dishes. Also, be aware that the hops used in brewing beer can add a lot of bitterness, so some hoppier brews might work best in a pint glass and not in your cookware. A good resource for more information on cooking with beer is

22 The Walleye

thebeeroness.com—this website is chock-full of recipes and information on having your beer and eating it too. Just as you can pair different types of beer with different types of foods, when cooking with beer you need to think about what the best style of beer is for what you are trying to achieve in your kitchen. Depending on the dish, particular beer styles will do better. Know your beer—it’s always best to cook with high-quality beers that you already enjoy drinking. You can use beer with many different cooking techniques: braising, stewing, battering, marinating, and baking. Some even go as far as using the beer can to aid in the cooking process (like beer can chicken on the barbecue). Here are a few different cooking techniques where you can incorporate your favourite brews into your meals.

Baking Beer bread is a classic quick approach to making a loaf of bread. The beer provides both the liquid for the recipe and some added flavour. It’s best to pick a brew with an interesting malt profile that you enjoy—caramel and toffee flavours from a red ale, dark toast and coffee notes from a stout, or the rich maltiness and nuttiness of a Munich Dunkel. Locally, Brule Creek farms sells a prepackaged beer bread mix to make this task even easier! On the sweeter side of things, for my birthday I have often asked my wife to bake me a dark chocolate stout cake. A strong and rich dark brew with flavours like coffee and roasted nuts works so well in a chocolate cake.

Beer Can Chicken Cooking a whole chicken on a beer can in the barbecue is a lot of fun. I actually don’t believe this approach adds much beer flavour to the chicken, but having the chicken standing up on a can allows it to cook evenly and looks amazing. Do it for the ‘gram!

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Food receive any type of funding and relies solely on fundraising initiatives. In addition to the delicious food all prepared by the Valhalla, the evening includes multicultural dancing performed by local dance troupe Thunder Bay World Dance Collective, who wowed the audience last year. Guests can participate in a silent auction as well as the wildly popular Bling Blitz, where guests can win a beautiful piece of jewelry. Also, in keeping with the travel theme, the WestJet raffle gives entrants the chance to win two tickets to anywhere the company flies.

Valhalla Inn March 7 344-2944

Passport Around the World

Global Cuisine Without Having to Go Through Customs By Deanne Gagnon

fter a successful inaugural event last year, IG Wealth Management, in support of the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society, is thrilled to present the Passport Around the World dinner for the second (of hopefully many) years. At this unique event held at the Valhalla Inn, guests are treated to a variety of amazing cuisines from, as the name suggests, around the world. “There will be different food stations. We will be highlighting India, Canada, Greece, Mexico, and Italy, and there will also be a dessert bar/buffet table as well,” says Marc Larocque, fundraising coordinator,

24 The Walleye

MS Society Lake Superior District Chapter. “Everyone will have the opportunity to sample, eat, or load up on their favorites. The food is just exceptional.” The MS Society is a cause close to Larocque’s heart, as he was diagnosed with the disease in 2005. “As soon as myself and my family found out I had MS we started looking into it and became volunteers for many years. Then in August 2018 I accepted the position with the MS society, leaving a job of 17 years behind,” he says. “It’s different—being behind the scenes has been an eye-opener for how much work goes into every event.” The local chapter does not

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FilmTheatre Magnus, is well known for his work in film, television, and stage, and for his writing. He has been seen on Dance Me Outside, The Rez, and Murdoch Mysteries. His best-known stage roles include Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit (Manitoba Theatre for Young People), and a Wickersham Brother in Seussical The Musical. Domville has been on screen in the TV series Damnation and Murdoch Mysteries. “Cottagers and Indians is a very funny play,” says Hobbs. “Does it tackle some more serious subject matter? Sure. Does it do it in a way that allows audiences to have fun with it? Absolutely... I think people will take some messaging from the play, but they’ll get to laugh a lot too.” The show runs from March 12 until March 28, with Sundays being pay what you can. For more information on the show and where to buy tickets, visit magnustheatre.com, or stop by the Magnus box office Tuesday– Thursday 12:30–6 pm and Friday noon–4:30 pm.

Herbie Barnes and Philippa Domville

Philippa Domville

Cottagers and Indians

Magnus’ Production Handles Serious Matters in Funny Way Story by Neil Burke, Photos by Andrew Alexander

agnus Theatre has produced hundreds of plays in their 49-year history and this March, they add to that list with Cottagers and Indians. The play, written by Drew Hayden Taylor and directed by Thom Currie, is loosely based on actual events that happened in eastern Ontario. According to Scott Hobbs, Magnus’ marketing director, The Toronto Star published an article that stated, “In 2015, media reports surfaced of a years-long dispute between cottage owners on Pigeon Lake, organized in a group named Save Pigeon Lake, and a man named James Whetung who was planting and harvesting wild rice in this and

30 The Walleye

surrounding lakes, reviving a traditional source of nourishment and a source of income by selling it to local businesses. But his neighbours felt it was infringing on their ability to swim, fish, and boat.” The play, which takes place in the present and set on a fictional lake, sees Arthur (played by Herbie Barnes) and Maureen (played by Philippa Domville) as the figureheads of the two opposing sides, exposing both the absurdity that comes from these kinds of arguments as well as touching upon the severity of its historical implications. The cast consists of just two. Barnes, who makes his return to

Herbie Barnes

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Courtesy of Five Bucks at the Door

Chris Kosloski

FilmTheatre

Frank Loffredo and Kirsten Kosloski

New Documentary Examines Legacy of Crocks N Rolls By Adrian Lysenko

new documentary exploring the impact that Crocks N Rolls has had on the Canadian music scene has recently finished production. Five Bucks at the Door: The Story of Crocks N Rolls, directed and produced by filmmaker Kirsten Kosloski, chronicles the heyday of the music venue during the mid-1980s and early 1990s. Growing up in pre-internet Thunder Bay, Kosloski says Crocks was a gateway to underground culture not readily available in the city at that time. “Going to Crocks in 1987—which is when I think I first went—it was sort of a change of life moment for me… as soon as you walked through those doors it was like its own world. Nothing outside those walls existed and you were sort of transported into a different place,” says Kosloski. “It was like a curtain was pulled open.”

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The idea for the documentary didn’t come to the filmmaker until sometime later when she was working as a music writer, film critic, and editor in Calgary, where she realized the venue was well-known to many people in the music industry. As luck would have it, Kosloski and her husband Chris (who worked on the film as a cinematographer and editor) moved back to Thunder Bay, and she approached Frank Loffredo, the former owner and operator of the venue about the idea. “The thing is you can’t separate Frank from Crocks; they’re interwoven,” she says. “Frank is the heartbeat behind all of this and I don’t think before we did the project he realized how many lives he touched and what an impact he had locally on the Thunder Bay art scene.” When picking people to interview for the documentary, Kosloski

she says. “It’s such a Thunder Bayer attitude to have but Frank never thought he was doing anything that important or that warranted a movie being made or people talking about it.” As for the man himself, Loffredo remains modest. “I’m not trying to be a hero or pat myself on the back. It was just a really, really simple time,” says Loffredo. “[It’s] incredibly humbling that anybody would even want to do a story on my life and capture it so well.” “Frank just did it because he loved music and he wanted to hear these bands,” says Kosloski. “He’s a super music fan himself… so it was a way for him to bring in the things that he loved and by doing that he ended up inspiring a generation in Thunder Bay.” With the documentary completed, the filmmakers are currently submitting it to festivals and planning a community screening. For more information and updates, visit crocksdoc.com.

Courtesy of Five Bucks at the Door

Five Bucks at the Door

says she hoped to get individuals who could not only share funny stories about playing at Crocks but wanted to find those who could talk about but what the venue meant on a larger scale. The documentary features various musicians including Dave Bidini from the Rheostatics, Ian Blurton from Change of Heart, SookYin Lee, John Critchley of 13 Engines, Tom Holliston of Nomeansno and The Hanson Brothers, Mike McDonald and Steve Loree from Jr. Gone Wild, and Bob Wiseman from Blue Rodeo. “So many of them said that if it wasn’t for Frank and if it wasn’t for Crocks, there’s no way that they made it across the country on their tours, which were so critical back then.” For a lot of these bands, the filmmaker says Crocks N Rolls was the first place they played outside of their hometown, and it made a lasting impact on them. “Frank had the reputation for being a real hospitality promoter… his mother would make spaghetti and meatballs and he would feed them family style,”

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FilmTheatre

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

Irish Movies

By Michael Sobota

I’m in love with you. And I’m in love with your beautiful woman. And I’m in love with your kids. And I’m in love with your unborn child. I’m even in love with your anger. I’m in love with anything that lives. - Mateo (Djimon Hounsou) to Johnny (Paddy Considine)

hy are there so many Irish movies? I think it’s because of their stories. Their rich and layered culture of storytelling. Their magnificent writers. The terrible beauty and enduring pain of religion, and of separation— that northern part that can’t seem to be joined back onto the nation. So why are there so many great Irish movies? All of the above. And because of Saoirse Ronan, Colin Farrell, Brenda Fricker, Liam Neeson, Maureen O’Hara, Peter O’Toole, Neil Jordan, Martin McDonagh, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cillian Murphy, John Sayles, and Jim Sheridan. Here are four of the best stories they’ve given us on the screen.

The Crying Game (1992) Neil Jordan, directing his own script and a top-notch cast (Stephen Rea, Jaye Davidson, Forest Whitaker, and Miranda Richardson), weaves a story about “The Troubles.” Rea (Fergus) is a secret IRA activist and Whitaker (Jude) a disgraced British policeman who strike up a curious friendship. When Jude is killed in a botched kidnapping, Fergus escapes to London. He goes undercover and gets a labourer’s job. In a bar he meets and becomes smitten with Dil (Davidson), a club singer. With the ever-present tension of car bombs being set off in the London streets, Fergus and Dil fall deeper in love. But Dil has a secret of her own. It is to the credit of film critics at the time of the movie’s release that they never revealed Dil’s secret. If you have not seen this, it is one of the most incredible reveals ever put on screen.

In America (2002)

Hunger (2008)

Brooklyn (2015)

This is an Irish immigration story, set in almost-modern times. A young couple, Johnny (Paddy Considine) and Sarah (Samantha Morton), and their two young daughters (Sarah and Emma Bolger) immigrate to the United States by sneaking illegally through a Canadian border crossing. Landing in New York City, Johnny hopes to get acting jobs. Sarah works to support the family, leaving the two girls pretty much on their own during the day. They live in a squalid apartment complex. The girls meet a scary Black giant who lives one floor below them, Mateo (Djimon Hounsou). Mateo, dying from AIDS, pushes everyone away with his gruffness. But the girls, not frightened in their innocence, break through his grumpy defenses. This is a love story, operating on many deep and rich layers, and director Jim Sheridan makes it as funny as it is serious, in that peculiar Irish storytelling way.

Director Steve McQueen’s debut featurelength film is a towering achievement. It is 1981 in Northern Ireland and Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister in England, determined to break the IRA and crush their terrorist activities. McQueen establishes the era and bleak atmosphere at Maze Prison, where IRA activists are incarcerated. The core focus is on Bobby Sands (Michael Fassbender, in a haunting, break-out performance), who begins a hunger strike in the prison, joined by fellow prisoners. There is an astonishing scene in the middle of the film that runs for nearly 25 minutes without an edit. A priest (Liam Cunningham) comes to visit Sands. The priest’s intention is to get Sands to break his hunger strike. We watch them, sitting across a table from each other, and, as the dialogue ratchets up, we witness great screen acting. Not until the final three minutes does McQueen edit the scene and shift our perspective. Sands would go on to fast for some 60 days before dying. This is a beautifully made, shattering masterpiece.

Ellis (Saoirse Ronan) is a young woman working in a village grocery shop in Ireland in 1950. She pines for more and a larger world. Leaving her mom and elder sister behind, she takes a boat to America and lands in Brooklyn. She lives in a boarding house for women and gets work in a department store. She meets and falls for Tony (Emory Cohen), who introduces her to his large Italian family. But Ellis is homesick and when she hears her sister has died, decides to return to Ireland for the funeral. Tony asks her to marry him, afraid that she might not return from Ireland. She does. And then the movie digs even deeper and opens up into layers of rich storytelling, broken hearts, and beautiful scenery.

And six more great Irish stories told on the big screen: Ryan’s Daughter (1970), My Left Foot (1989), The Secret of Roan Inish (1994), Borstal Boy (2000), The Magdalene Sisters (2002), and Once (2007).

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Cheadles is proud to welcome our newest associates, Cody Fraser and Nathan Wainwright. Both Cody and Nathan are graduates of Lakehead University’s Bora Laskin School of Law. Cody will be practicing Municipal Law, Real Estate, and Corporate Law. Nathan is joining the firm’s litigation team, with a focus on Civil & Commercial Litigation, and Construction Law. Since 1953, Cheadles has proudly provided client-focused legal services in Thunder Bay and across northern Ontario.

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FilmTheatre

CONFESSIONS OF A DRAG DEALER

Lady Fantasia LaPremiere

The Princess of Peace, Love, and Pride By Jimmy Wiggins

t’s impossible for me to talk about my involvement with drag in Thunder Bay without covering Lady Fantasia LaPremiere. In drag, Fantasia is a local legend. Out of drag, John Forget is one of my best friends and has been for a very long time. Forget got his first taste of drag at the age of 19 while working as a waiter at the Voodoo Lounge, Thunder Bay’s last gay bar, during Pride in the North, an annual week-long celebration put on by Pride Central. “I wore long hair extensions, a bandana, a plaid skirt, and one of my girlfriends’ knee high boots,” says Forget. “I looked like a pirate but I may have been the happiest I've ever been at that point.” There was a drag competition happening that night but no

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one to compete against the reigning queen, Paloma Marquez. “They asked if I’d perform,” says Forget. “That was my first time out of my own house in drag. It was a wild night—nylon rice boobs and all. I performed ‘I Wanna Be Bad’ by Willa Ford. I lost the competition, but what a thrilling ride it was going to turn out to be.” Fantasia LaPremiere was born, and she would go on to perform again and again, each time trying something new and different. She spent her early years building a name for herself, performing with a crew by her side anywhere that would have them. The life of an entertainer comes with great ups and great downs. With the success of LaPremiere’s shows came the after-parties and with after-parties came bad

decisions. Sometimes those bad decisions became part of the show. But with the help of her crew she ploughed through and broke the habit. “I had never performed not under the influence of something and for a while I had a bit of a substance abuse problem,” says Forget. “Drag brought me some amazing people. With their help I got through it and started performing sober. I had always been good at what I did, but doing it with clear eyes and mind was more exhilarating than anything!” Today, LaPremiere is a household name among the TBay drag community and a pillar of the LGBTQ+ community. Inspired by greats like The Lady Chablis, Dame Edna, and RuPaul, her drag style is never set in stone. She’s gone from club kid to messy rocker chick to glamorous diva and back again, always bending the rules of gender and what people think a drag queen is or isn’t supposed to be. A few years back she started incorporating a full masculine beard into her look, further bending the societal rules of gender and femininity. In 2015, LaPremiere took home the coveted title of Wig Wars Queen and has served as a judge on the show’s panel ever since. She has also taken home the title of Queen of the North several times at Pride Central’s Pride in the North Drag Competition, as well as becoming an organizer of the event later on.

LaPremiere’s drag name is a mix of her personality and her French heritage. “Fantasia is for fantasy,” explains Forget. “I imagined I could be everyone’s fantasy, a little something for everyone. LaPremiere is because when I started in drag I didn't have a drag family or drag mother so I thought ‘Oh, I’m the first of my line. Je suis la premiere, the first.’” In 2016, LaPremiere, along with yours truly, started the Fantasy Haus Drag Family, which has become a powerhouse in the drag community. In 2019, LaPremiere, along with Mz Molly Poppinz, started Story Time with Drag Queens in Thunder Bay and have been helping to spread a message of love and acceptance to young minds and parents. “I always looked up to drag queens. They were superheroes meant to spread that love vibration,” says Forget. “We’re all in this together; we should uplift one another. I’ve had the privilege of being on both sides, accepted and unaccepted. I’ve always strived to create inclusive spaces when putting on a show.” “Life’s too short to let yourself be constricted by the norms or society,” Forget adds. “I just want people to love and be loved, wear what they want to wear, choose who they want to be, and whom they want to live their lives with. Peace, love, and pride.”

Lady Fantasia LaPremiere in 2004

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FilmTheatre

(L-R) Chris Jason, Rory Ryan, Katie Maki, and Jesica McNabb

Can’t Help Falling In Love

Cambrian Players Present Four Weddings and an Elvis Story by Amy Sellors, Photos by Matt Goetz

s winter melts away, come melt your heart with Cambrian Players’ new comedy, Four Weddings and an Elvis, written by Nancy Frick. “Love conquers all. What works for one person doesn’t work for the other. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” says director Gabe Ferrazzo of the production, which will fill the audience’s hearts with love, laughter, and Elvis Presley music. “He’s the King, and I like him!” says Ferrazzo, with a glint in his eye. Elvis’ music underscores the show, and for the final song, the audience will find the lyrics in their programs if they feel inspired to sing along. Set designer Donna Goodman is creating a classic Las Vegas wedding chapel to serve as the setting. The talented cast play many different types of characters. “Audiences will see themselves on stage. Whether you’re falling for the wrong person or trying to make something work that is not working; there are any number of situations that will resonate with

come alive. “This is fast moving. The action is quick. Timing is everything. It has to click,” says Ferrazzo. Ferrazzo has spent his life in Thunder Bay theatre, both on stage and behind the scenes. He has spent a lifetime honing his craft, with comedies, tragedies, musicals, and Shakespeare. “In amateur theatre you get so many chances to play roles and take on challenges you wouldn’t get in professional theatre,” he says. “It’s a chance to stretch yourself. Theatre is collaborative and interactive” says Ferrazzo. Near the end of winter, people get restless, and it’s a great time to come out and see a show. “Leave laughing and having had a great time,” says MacCoy. Oh, and don’t forget…Elvis! The show runs March 4–7 and 11–14 at 818 Spring Street. Doors open at 7 pm; performances begin at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $20–$25 and are available at Calico Coffeehouse and Fireweed Crafts. Check Cambrian Players’ Facebook page and cambrianplayers.com for more information.

(L-R) Jerry Silen, John Pidgen-Welyki, and Julie MacCoy

the audience,” says Ferrazzo. This play is “rom-com meets Monty Python,” says John Condon, with a grin. Condon plays Bryce, an aging celebrity trying to claw his way back to stardom by any means, including using his wedding as a publicity stunt. Desperate to not be a “has-been,” Bryce gets up to some hilarious antics. Julie MacCoy plays Bev, a woman marrying for revenge. Or is it love? You be the judge. MacCoy is no stranger to Thunder Bay theatre and is often working behind the scenes. This time, she’s back on stage now and is loving it. “It’s nice to be back on stage with a great group of cast members.” Both Condon and MacCoy describe the play as fun, busy, crazy, and chaotic. As in every romantic comedy, there is love between the laughs, and “tender moments that are very real,” says MacCoy. Comedy is always a challenge, and Ferrazzo recognizes technical aspects that make comedy

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TheArts

FROM THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY’S COLLECTION Artist: Don Ense Title: Kitchen Window Date: 1978 Medium: Acrylic on canvas Dimensions: 71 x 61 cm

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Kitchen Window By Meaghan Eley, Registrar and Curatorial Assistant, Thunder Bay Art Gallery

rtist, illustrator, and poet Don Ense was born in 1953 in M’Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island. He started painting seriously in 1974 under the guidance of friend and fellow artist Martin Panamick. He went on to

study art and poetry and became a vital member of the Manitoulin painters, a group of artists that includes Blake Debassige, Shirley Cheechoo, Panamick, Eleanor Kanasawe, and Leland Bell, among others. Ense has exhibited his work

across Canada, the United States, and Italy. His paintings can be found in many private and public collections, including that of the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. In 1979, not long after he painted Kitchen Window, Ense was interviewed by Mary E. Southcott for The Sound of the Drum: The Sacred Art of the Anishnabec, saying: Sometimes people go around outside of themselves They haven't discovered what lies within. I am just beginning to know myself judging my capabilities to see what I can do I'm still learning as each day comes ...something happens, no matter how my day goes. It teaches me something I can use later on. Ense collected these teachings, stories, and childhood memories and used them in his artwork. His simplified, realistic style often shows a clear narrative or depicts a scene from his own life or the lives of those around him. “Kitchen Window” and its representation of the home, a central element of daily life, shows Ense’s preoccupation with place and identity. The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, as a place of warmth, food, and comfort. Ense hints at these feelings with the table, the curtains, the potted plant. It is a place to feel safe and nourished. It is a home. By showing the view outside the window along with that of the interior, this particular home is not seen as closed or insular. Here, the sense of belonging and comfort that accompany the idea of home are not limited to within the walls, but can be seen to spread outwards into the surrounding landscape and community beyond. This painting will be on view at the gallery this summer as part of the exhibition Home Making: Selections from the Permanent Collection.

TheArts

The 100 Day Project

Pam Cain has also taken on the companion challenge—the Solstice to Equinox: Out of the Darkness project, which began on December 21, 2019 and ends March 19, 2020—by marking the daily rise of the sun and gain in daylight, with reflections on the day’s weather and milestones.

Making a Commitment to be Creative By Pamela Cain

hat would inspire you to make a commitment to an endeavour that lasts for 100 days? Participants in Thunder Bay’s 100 Day Project are taking on a variety of creative pursuits, such as writing, painting, weaving or stitching. They’re motivated by other daily observations, like temperature, life with a toddler or the love of nature, for example. They will create every day from January 22 to April 30, with the intent to awaken, nurture, and sustain creative spirit though the cultivation of small daily acts. Originating in Marquette, Michigan, the 100 Day Project has grown across the northern United States to include a partnership with the Art Colony in Grand Marais. Taking the challenge in 2020, the Creative Arts Northern Network—a non-profit organization with the goal of helping creative people in Northern Ontario network, mentor, learn, and support each other— saw an opportunity to bring the

initiative to Thunder Bay artists. Once registered on the100dayproject.com, participants receive regular newsletters, daily postings, and samples of other participants’ work to help motivate and inspire them. There are no rules for doing a 100 Day Project other than doing something hands-on with your project every day during the 100 days— even if it’s just five minutes. It’s not too late to undertake the initiative and begin your own daily creative pursuit—draw, write, paint, sew, make music, create a quick doodle, comment on a daily reflection, take a photo, or work on a simple idea and let it evolve. The idea is to cultivate the habit and ritual of creating. The Creative Arts Northern Network is hosting a quarterly check-in and art share with participants invited to exhibit their 100 Days Project work at the Baggage Building Arts Centre from May 8–10. FInd the 100 Day Project on Facebook at 100Dayprojecttbay.

▲ Cathy Ridley reflects on the daily temperature, and uses coloured swatches of fabric and thread to guide an image. ▼ Kiri Butter creates squares decorated with thread, hand-printing, paint, fabric, and natural materials as a nemophilist—one who is fond of the forest—would have undertaken the challenge.

The The Walleye Walleye 4141

TheArts

From Argentina to Ontario

Julia Manfredi is Mommy Can Sew By Leah Morningstar

orn in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina, Julia Manfredi never imagined she’d one day be moving to Canada, never mind raising a family in Northwestern Ontario. While in the third year of a seven-year architecture program and attempting to practise English, Manfredi sent a chat request out into the void of cyberspace. She saw someone from Canada online and said, “How are you?” Imagine her now-husband’s surprise when he woke up and checked his computer and saw a message asking, “What’s wrong with you?” He thought he was being pranked, but realized something might have been lost in translation. He answered the message (“What do you mean?”), which began a months-long correspondence. Online chatting led to

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phone calls, then visits. It’s quite the modern love story, with an amusing twist of a language barrier. After Mandredi finished all her classes, she moved to Thunder Bay to be with her Canadian boyfriend. She prepped for final projects and exams, then went back to Argentina for three months to complete her Masters in Architecture. She returned to Thunder Bay and the rest is history: marriage, a job, a baby, and a second job. The second job is where things get even more creative and artistic. As if designing buildings and houses isn’t enough, Manfredi is also an incredibly gifted seamstress. As a child, she watched her mother and her grandmother sew professionally and she picked up the skills by watching and imitating. She was always dabbling in design and making

bits of clothing and accessories, but when Manfredi gave birth to her daughter, she also birthed a new career: Mommy Can Sew. She began by creating items for her daughter as practice, then making the same items to sell at craft sales: baby blankets and swaddles, cloth baby carriers, mini doll-sized baby carriers, and even doll diapers. As her child grew, Manfredi continually experimented with new products. Harnesses for toddlers who like to run, fuzzy neck warmers, and warm car seat and booster seat ponchos are among some of the best selling products. Manfredi tailors her products to the season and will sell hundreds of neck warmers and car seat ponchos in the winter, but will then sell fabulous beach blankets and reversible bucket hats for the summer. Her business-savvy

mind allows her to adapt her products to her environment and in this northern climate; adaptation is essential. Some other popular products include tooth fairy pillows, personalized child size pillows, small quilts, small stuffed toys for babies, dish towels, and more. Life is so busy for Manfredi. She is a wife and mom, holds down a job as an architect, sews in her beautiful sunny studio space, and sends Mommy Can Sew products all over the world. She also makes almost all her own clothes, and although she doesn’t offer adult clothing for sale (she has enough to do already), she does offer minor repairs like zipper replacements and hemming. For more info, find Mommy Can Sew on Facebook and Instagram and visit her Etsy store at etsy.com/ ca/shop/MommyCanSewCanada.

TheArts

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TheArts

Evalina Sacchetti, Pieces pt. 1 (scattered), 30cm x 30cm or dimensions variable

▲ Evalina Sacchetti, Keeping it Together, 28cm x 43cm ◄ Evalina Sacchetti, Pieces pt. 1 (together), 30cm x 30cm or dimensions variable Evalina Sacchetti

Exploring New Mediums

Lakehead University’s Honours Exhibition and the Annual Juried Show By Savanah Tillberg

he Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s annual Lakehead University Honours Exhibition showcases the work of the graduating students from LU’s Fine Arts program. This year, the exhibition will feature the work of five student artists: Gillian McGregor, Jessica Stacey, Caroline Robillard, Evalina Sacchetti, and Katy Poirier. While this year’s graduating class is small in numbers, their collective talents know no bounds. There is no overarching theme to the exhibition and each artist brings a unique and fresh concept to their work. McGregor will be showcasing handmade clothes displayed on drawn portraits of her female family members. McGregor says that she designed her pieces to pay homage to the females of her family and carry on their traditions. One of her installations features a black velvet

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wedding dress, modelled after the dress her grandmother wore. “She would tell me about how much she hated the dress when I was younger,” McGregor explains. “Until the day she passed away she was upset about this black dress, so she made sure both of her daughters got a white dress on their wedding [day].” McGregor’s contributions to this exhibition work to preserve her family traditions in a material and physical way. Stacey’s work is inspired by the artists she grew up listening to. She has drawn charcoal portraits on blank record sleeves of famous singers from the 1940s to 1970s. She explains that the artists she selected to draw were role models for her throughout her life and she hopes to capture the struggles they faced as female artists while also showcasing their resilience and global

Gillian McGregor, Path to Now (detail), dimensions variable

impact. Stacey will also be showcasing ceramic pieces featuring landscapes of the farm her family has had for generations in southwestern Ontario. She explains that while the subject matter of her work may differ, the overall themes of her various pieces come together to tell the story of her personal history. Robillard is a Korean-French Canadian artist and she will be showcasing a series of paintings that follow her mother’s experiences immigrating to Canada from Korea. Her paintings depict a sense of lost identity in regard to her Korean heritage due to her unique Canadian upbringing. She also uses her ceramic work to explore the current and future states of Northern landscapes in a time of industrialization on the land. Sacchetti explains that her art aims to “represent surreal interpretations of negative thoughts and mental states” that she has experienced. Her artistic style is heavily inspired by the graphic novels that she grew up reading. Additionally,

TheArts

she will be showcasing tile work that is representative of surreal memories she has. Poirier will be featuring her smoke drawings. Poirier creates stencils from family photos and childhood artwork and then uses residue carbon from candle flames to create the final “smoke drawing.” The subject matter of her drawings centres around unprocessed memories and loss. She has also created ceramic pieces where whitetail deer are given human characteristics. The pieces are placed around the gallery, while a hunter is mounted on the gallery wall. The Honours Exhibition will run from March 6 to 29. The Annual Juried Show, which features selected artwork from all LU Fine Arts students, will also take place from March 6 to April 5. The opening reception for both shows, where the artists will be in attendance and locally sponsored awards will be presented, will take place on March 13 at 7 pm at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery.

Katy Poirier

Jessica Stacey, More than Pretty Faces (Peggy Lee), 30cm x 30 cm

Katy Poirier, Buckethead, 30cm x 45cm

Katy Poirier, Trophy, 35.5cm, 41.5cm, 24.5cm

Caroline Robillard, Untitled (detail), 177cm x 109cm

▼ Gillian McGregor

Katy Poirier, Memorial, 37.5cm x 52.5cm

The Walleye

Outdoor

Journey to the Junior Iditarod Training for the World-Famous Dog Sled Race

Jim Stroner Photography

By Julia Cross

or years it has been my goal to race in the Junior Iditarod, one of the most well-known junior dog sled races in the world. After my race season last year came to an end, I gave up the thought of running the race, until one day in November when a good friend of mine, an Alaskan musher named Ryan Redington, brought up the idea again. I talked it over with my parents and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pass up the opportunity for 2020. The race is 150 miles across Alaska with 10 incredible canine athletes. There are currently nine other junior mushers registered for the race, and I look forward to making new friends who share my passion for the sport and the dogs. I have been running sled dogs for 12 years and racing since 2014. Throughout my years of competition I have raced for numerous people, learning all I could from each of them. Up until last year, I had won some smaller races and awards, but all in races under 100 miles. Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Junior John Beargrease

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Sled Dog Marathon in Duluth was not only the longest race I have ever run, but also the best. But that might change in a matter of weeks. Last year was my first year training my race team completely by myself. I had guidance from the musher I was running dogs for, but ran them the whole season mostly by myself. It was a fantastic learning experience and helped me gain knowledge and experience I will use in the Junior Iditarod this year. I went into last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s race season knowing I had a young, inexperienced team, but looked forward to having fun out on the trail and gaining race experience for future years. We came out of the first race of the season with a sixth place finish out of 15, which was absolutely incredible for a young team. Three weeks later we embarked on the Beargrease Trail. I am a bit more of a conservative musher than most, usually taking more rest at the beginning of the race and less at the end. In the Beargrease, this worked to our advantage. In the last

Julia Cross

Outdoor

Jim Stroner Photography

Amber's Impressions

P.Salls Photography

two legs, I passed around 10 teams, going from near back of the pack, to finishing in eighth place overall out of 24. My team also finished first in the junior category, with a lead of over two hours. I was amazed by the teamwork out on the trail, and proud of the work I had put into these dogs over the season. We not only placed “in the money” but were also awarded the Rookie of the Year Award and Best Kept Team (Veterinarian) Awards. Since I am now a senior in high school, I had plans for last year to be my last big racing season so I could focus on school this year to ensure I get into specific university programs. Junior Iditarod was not in the picture. Until—bam! There it was, and here I am, on my way to Alaska to run the Junior Iditarod as the only Canadian musher. Redington has given me the opportunity to race with a highly experienced team of dogs. I am looking forward to having the opportunity to race an incredible team from an incredible musher in the Junior Iditarod. The race is an awesome chance for kids aged 14–17 to gain friendships and experience they will hold on to for the rest of their lives, and that is exactly what I plan on doing. The 2020 Junior Iditarod started on February 29.

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CityScene

Temple Grandin

World-Renowned Animal Scientist To Headline Upcoming Agriculture Event By Lindsay Campbell

emple Grandin is as close as it gets to a real-life Dr. Dolittle. A New York Times bestselling author, autism advocate, world-renowned animal scientist, and the subject of an Emmy award-winning HBO movie, Grandin has paved the way for improving the efficiency and quality of animal welfare on farms. Next month, she’ll be the guest of honour at a Thunder Bay Federation of Agriculture event to share her insights. Grandin, who was diagnosed with autism in adulthood, suffered

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from bullying throughout her youth and wasn’t able to speak until she was just over three years old due to her condition. She has been described as revolutionary for her ability to describe the mental consciousness of her autism and then apply it towards the enhancement of animal welfare. And she has designed about half of the livestock equipment used in meat plants in Canada and the United States. The event, taking place on April 2 from 2 pm until 10 pm at the Airlane Hotel & Conference Centre, will include a keynote presentation

by Grandin, a book signing where three of her books will be available for sale, an opportunity for networking in a hospitality room, and a farm-to-table banquet dinner. Grandin, who plans to discuss livestock handling systems and animal psychology in her presentation, says she’s always interested in

speaking to people in the agriculture industry, but she’s especially focused on making an impact on young people. “I want to see students that think differently get out there and be successful,” she says, noting her own experience. “I get asked all the time about how I became interested in livestock. Well, I got introduced to it when I was a teenager.” Grandin adds that she knows not all young people will be interested in agriculture, but she hopes that she can ignite a spark and inspire some who have thought about entering the profession. Jane Cryderman of the Thunder Bay Federation of Agriculture says that the organization wanted to host an event with someone who could talk about a topic that would benefit all members of the farming community. “Temple Grandin, of course, is the perfect solution because of her eclectic interest in farming, farm animals, farm husbandry,” Cryderman says. “She has a lot of information and knowledge that is fascinating and of interest to a wide spectrum in the community.” But she adds that even those who have pets or an interest in animals could learn something from what Grandin has to say. “She really has realistic and very vivid insights to how animal minds function,” Cryderman says. “Temple’s going to have some real valuable perspectives to make working with animals easier and safer and more humane for everybody.” Tickets for the event are now on sale. They can be found online at sites.grenadine.co/sites/meatyourmatch, along with a detailed schedule of each event portion.

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CityScene

CANNABIS CORNER

Ill Effects

The Physiological Downside of Cannabis By Justin Allec

hen it comes to cannabis, I’m usually a pretty positive advocate. I’ve done a lot of reading, I know why and when I use it, so overall I feel comfortable with my consumption. That said, I’m not about to get evangelical about cannabis. It’s not for everyone, and that’s fine. However, even people who enjoy cannabis can experience some negative effects. In some cases, these can be easily tolerated, a mild price to pay for indulging. At the other end of the spectrum, though, there are serious concerns, so it’s worth understanding the downside of our physiological responses to cannabis to be better informed consumers. Bloodshot eyes are a dead giveaway that you’ve been using cannabis, but this reaction isn’t tied to the act of smoking. Cannabis— particularly strains with high THC levels—prompt an increase in heart rate and blood pressure because the plant’s cannabinoids interact with our own endocannabinoid system. After about 10 minutes the pressure decreases, which leads to dilated

50 The Walleye

blood vessels and capillaries and an increase in blood flow throughout the body, as well as a reduction in intraocular pressure. Typically, red eyes will go away in a few hours, but they can also be treated with eye drops if they persist or your eyes feel dry. A harder reaction to explain is “the munchies.” Obviously, your brain functions change after consuming cannabis, but we’re still learning how and why. One recent study out of Yale University looking at the brain’s neurological pathways shows that cannabis scrambles the neurons associated with feelings of fullness and satiety, in effect doing the reverse of what they’re supposed to by increasing appetite and cravings. Another study from the University of Bordeaux in France examined cannabis’ influence on the brain’s olfactory bulb, and determined that—perhaps obviously—cannabis leads to a more acute sense of smell and taste. It’s probable that the munchies aren’t just caused by one aspect of cannabis, but for many people, they are a

problem because they lead to overeating. You have to deal with the munchies through planning. Eating a well-rounded meal ahead of time won’t eliminate them, but keeping yourself distracted or eliminating temptations is good advice. Finally, we reach the burnout. Burnout is a catchall term for a cannabis hangover, but usually means some degree of physical fatigue, dehydration, decreased mental alertness, and flattened emotions. The severity of the burnout is proportional to the quality and quantity of cannabis you’ve consumed—the higher the THC, the more you’ll feel like staying in bed the next day, and it usually takes up to seven days to fully recover. As cannabis artificially triggers our endocannabinoid system, it depletes the natural reserves and leaves you feeling low. Eventually, if your tolerance and use increases, you’ll begin to rely on cannabis more and more for those good feelings. While there’s little you can do to escape the burnout, it’s significantly worse if you’re under 25, which is why

there was such a push from physicians to have the legal age raised. Burnout lasts much longer in youths than in adults because their brains are still developing, and chronic use can lead to depression, anxiety, and in some cases, particularly in males, schizophrenia and psychosis. Overuse, chronic use, and chronic burnout aren’t a joke, and could indicate a pattern of addiction. While some of the effects, like the munchies, are annoying, they’re also expected and can be dealt with. However, if you find yourself having issues with work, family, or other obligations because of your cannabis use, it’s probably a good time to ask yourself some serious questions and maybe pick up the phone. Cannabis can be part of the good time, but it shouldn’t be all the time. If you or someone you love is having issues with their cannabis consumption, contact the Thunder Bay District Health Unit’s Injury Prevention & Substance Misuse Program: 625-5900, or toll-free 1-888-294-6630.

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CityScene

GETAWAY

Thunder Bay freestyler Zach Jordan nails a flat 360 with a safety grab in Spirit Park

That’s the Spirit Flips, Slides, and Turns at Duluth’s Spirit Mountain

Story and Photos by Darren McChristie

“P

urpose of your visit?” “Three days of skiing at Spirit Mountain in Duluth.” “...and shopping too, of course?” “No, sir, we have no time for shopping…we’re going to Duluth for some powder skiing.” “Whaaat?” Duluth is typically high on the list for Thunder Bay residents looking for a quick getaway. With a winding road that hugs Lake Superior while passing through a series of quaint communities, the three-hour drive south of the border is also one of North America’s most scenic. My family’s visits to the Twin Ports have typically revolved around hockey tournaments, shopping for the latest Air Jordans, or sampling craft beer and live music. I have always marveled at the sight of Spirit

52 The Walleye

Mountain illuminated at night, but my skiing experience in Minnesota has been limited to the midwest behemoth, Lutsen. This time, I was visiting Duluth exclusively for skiing— specifically, for my teenage son, Nathan, to compete in a freestyle competition. Aside from hearing about the terrain park (a huge draw for Nathan and his teammates with jumps ranging from 4.6 to 18 metres), I knew next to nothing about Spirit Mountain. I was pumped to explore a new ski area so close to home, but mostly because the forecast was calling for a dump of over 30 centimetres of snow. Spirit Mountain is located on a steep hillside, similar to those dominating much of Duluth’s topography. The ski hill faces the city and

▲ Enjoying craft brews in the Riverside Bar Grill, Grand Avenue Chalet ▼ Endless laps in the Lone Oak Tow Park

CityScene the harbour, with the St. Louis River to the south. It was built by the City of Duluth in 1974 to provide a four-season recreation area and generate economic growth. With a vertical drop of 213 metres, it is the second-highest ski area in Minnesota (for comparison, Loch Lomond’s vertical drop is 229 metres). After a sound sleep at a nearby hotel, we drove a few kilometres to the main entrance, located about three quarters up the mountain. The upper chalet is one the largest I’ve ever seen—a sprawling two-storey wood building with loads of seating, a cafeteria, a bar with live music, and a great view of the terrain park and Lake Superior. After taking a couple of runs with some like-minded locals, they introduced me to the lower chalet, built in 2012, which became our pitstop for pints throughout the weekend. The 22 runs at Spirit Mountain range from long, easy groomers to steep, more advanced terrain. There are five lifts and I was pleasantly surprised to be whisked up to the top on a high-speed quad, installed in 2012 as part of a $3.4 million upgrade. The terrain park is arguably the largest and the most kick-ass in the midwest. The jumps are well-designed, and they have the only superpipe around. Most jibs are located in the park just above the upper chalet—freestylers can enjoy endless laps in the park thanks to a conveniently located high-speed rope tow (it's silly fast!). Ironically, the freestyle competition was cancelled due to the impending snowstorm. By Saturday afternoon, the storm was hitting Duluth hard with cold temps and howling winds. Heavy snow quickly blanketed the corduroy runs—exactly why I was there. Over the next three days, I enjoyed skiing freshies in dry windblown powder—a rare treat on this end of Lake Superior. As the storm intensified, a group of die-hard skiers battled the elements while enjoying pockets of pow. Fat and wide became the skis of choice. I was the last person to leave the sprawling chalet in what felt like a scene from The Shining. Back at the hotel, our intentions

Mountain Stats 22 runs 175 skiable acres Longest run: 1,646 metres Uphill capacity: 12,400 people per hour Terrain park, progression park and freestyle features Lift info: 1 high-speed detachable quad, 1 quad, 2 triple chairs, 1 double chair, 1 handle tow, 1 conveyor lift Two chalets

Riding untracked powder on Bear Claw of heading to Canal Park for live music were scuttled by the storm that was hammering the city. We ordered a pizza and headed for the hot tub, which was, coincidentally, full of rowdy TBayers feeling right at home. Snow continued to fall throughout Friday night and the next day for me was a mission in finding stashes of fresh snow while Nathan and his crew honed their tricks launching off Spirit’s massive jumps. From telemark and alpine skiers to snowboarders and even a lone monoboarder, hooting and hollering could be heard on every run.

▼ Dropping the knee on Gandy Dancer

On Sunday morning, an additional 46 centimetres of snow was forecast for Lutsen and I was eager to head back up north. But even the prospect of knee-deep powder wasn’t enough to lure Nathan away from launching off bus-sized jumps and other features at Spirit Mountain. When we crossed the border later that evening, the officer at the border looked a little bemused when we said the value of goods we were bringing home was zero. With so much snow, there really wasn’t time for shopping.

▲ The Spirit Express II high-speed 4-person chairlift

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CityScene

French Oven

The Kitchen Nook

Stuff We Like

168 Algoma Street South This French oven is a staple for soup lovers. Made in France of enamelled cast iron, Le Creuset cookware is ideal for all heat sources and for creating even heat retention. Durable, easy to clean, and dishwasher safe, they are virtually indestructible. Plus, their light-coloured interiors mean you’ll know exactly when those onions have caramelized. Elegant enough to go from stove to table for serving. Choose from a rainbow array of colours.

For the Soup-Obsessed By Rebekah Skochinski

oup is super comforting. And delicious. It’s one of the simplest and most inexpensive ways to make a hearty meal. We like it for lunch or dinner, hot or cold, chunky or smooth—we haven’t met a soup we didn’t like. Whether you’re a soup-erstar, new to the soup-making game, or you just want to know what to do with that same fridgeful of vegetables and a few pantry staples, have zero fear, the soup list is here. Here’s Stuff We like for the Soup-Obsessed.

Lentils

Wildly Canadian

wildlycanadian.com Looking to make your soup more filling? Lentils are a great meat substitute (or add on to a meat-based soup like lentil and spicy Italian sausage!). An excellent source of both iron and fibre, these legumes are high in protein and contain potassium, folate, and vitamins B1 and B6. Best of all, Wildly Canadian organic green lentils retain their shape during the cooking process, providing a hearty, dense, and slightly nutty flavour. Load up!

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Fresh Herbs

Bloomers and the Brownhouse

330 Archibald Street South Brighten up the look and taste of your soup with some fresh herbs! Spring is coming, but until it arrives, you can grow your own herbs indoors with a herb garden from Bloomers and the Brownhouse. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you’ll be able to grow these like a pro. Then just snip off what you need when you need to take that bowl of soup from drab to fab. Choose from a variety of herbs, sold in packs of three.

Starting at $20

Soup Bowl Finnport

290 Bay Street Soup in a special bowl just tastes better, it’s a fact. We love these bold patterned Iittala bowls, which are part of the Taika series, because each one tells a story. Who doesn’t want the company of fanciful animals and trees while eating their butternut bisque? Made of durable porcelain, they are ideal for everyday use, can be mixed with plain dishes to create a whimsical tablescape, and are safe for the oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher.

$45

Cookbook Chapters Indigo

797 Memorial Avenue, Unit #402 Every great soup starts with a great recipe. The Soup Sisters Cookbook contains heartwarming soups that you can prepare in every season, featuring 100 scrumptious recipes from many of Canada’s top celebrity chefs, including Massimo Capra, Michael Bonacini, and Elizabeth Baird. Plus, The Soup Sisters are a Calgarybased non-profit enterprise dedicated to making a difference to the lives of women and children in need and collectively have donated over 75,000 bowls of soup!

Wooden Spoon

Paddy O’ Boards

paddyoboards.com Sure to cause a stir, these Paddy O’ Boards handcarved spoons are both pleasing and practical. No scratched soup pots! And since they won’t heat to scalding temperatures, tasting for seasoning is a snap. Made of poplar, cherry, or red oak and finished with a mineral oil beeswax coating, these spoons come in varying lengths. Also includes a small jar of finish with each purchase.

54 The Walleye

$20

Power Loaf The Sapling

Thunder Bay Country Market Nothing goes better with a steaming bowl of soup than freshly baked bread. The Power Loaf is baked fresh every Wednesday and Saturday and is The Sapling’s most popular offering. Brimming with good things like Brule Creek flour, red cargo rice, wild rice, barley, quinoa, oats, parsley, red onion, walnuts, carrots, and seeds (sesame, poppy, sunflower and popcorn), it’s hearty and delicious, with protein, fibre, and flavour galore. Enjoy with butter, one of their spreads, or dunk and sop!

$24.95

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The Walleye

CityScene

Beyond Words Celebrating Francophonie Month

By Claire Reid and Sarah Jacoba

Andy St-Louis

hat would you consider to be the greatest ingredient to any celebration? Well, the answer depends on what you’re celebrating, but you’d definitely want to spice up your event so as to attract as many people as possible. And culturally, there is no greater spice than art! Thunder Bay’s Francophone community is thriving, and this March, the Club Culturel Francophone de Thunder Bay will show us that there’s much more than letters and sounds to the celebration of the French-speaking world. From painting and photography to sculpture, thread art, and music, we’re called to explore various artistic expressions and help strengthen

56 The Walleye

cultural bonds within our community. Art lovers will easily find their way to the celebrations, as iconic spaces such as Urban Abbey and the Baggage Building Art Centre have been selected to showcase exhibitions of La Francophonie dans tous ses États, returning for a fourth year. The grand opening will kickstart the events of Thunder Bay's Francophonie Month at Urban Abbey on Saturday, March 14, starting at 5 pm. If you’re one to quietly appreciate and reflect on artwork, you’ll be delighted to stop by one or both locations this month. Through their preferred mediums, you will get to know a little more about the 16 francophone and francophile artists who

have united to share their love of French culture and language, including Luc Després, Michel Dumont, Julie Cosgrove, and many others. If, on the other hand, what interests you is the interactive possibility of meeting our local artists, chatting with the exposition’s curator, Sébastien Hardy, enjoying culinary masterpieces (food is art too, after all) or dancing to classic and modern music, March’s cabaret night will be right up your alley. This year’s annual cabaret will take place on March 21 at Urban Abbey. And because the Frenchspeakers around here like to think big, there will also be live music performed by multiple award-winner Andy St-Louis to complement

the art-filled Urban Abbey on March 29. Her energizing tunes are the perfect note on which to end a month dedicated to celebrating the 50th anniversary of… you guessed it, the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie. Your local Club Culturel Francophone also celebrates its 55th anniversary this year and we look forward to seeing you there! Bon anniversaire et que la fête commence! Exhibitions are showcased from March 14 to April 3 at Urban Abbey, and from March 8 to March 28 at the BBAC. For more information about events listed in this article, follow the Club culturel francophone's Facebook page, @ccftbay.

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The Walleye

CityScene

(L to R) Dave Bradley and Andrew Kondor of local ski goggle company XSPEX Optical Inc.

XSPEX Optical Inc. Local Company Set to Shred the Ski Goggle Industry By Michelle McChristie

onfucius said, “If you choose a job you love, you will never have to work a day in your life.” Local entrepreneurs Andrew Kondor and Dave Bradley seem to have taken the philosopher’s advice to heart with their latest venture, XSPEX Optical Inc.

58 The Walleye

“The optical business came about during a trip to China where I met with a company making interesting changes in technology and industrial design to ski goggles,” explains Kondor. As a lifelong avid skier and ski instructor with strong business acumen gained through

17 years in the manufacturing field with regular trips overseas, Kondor saw an opportunity to improve on and market what he knew was a cool design. He also recognized that all the major players in the ski goggle industry were from the United States or Europe and felt that Canadians “deserved a Canadianowned, high-quality ski goggle brand of their own.” Kondor partnered with local ski guru Dave Bradley, who has coached at the highest levels of alpine skiing nationally and at the World Cup level. “After showing Dave the goggles and my story, he agreed to take all the samples on a week-long trip to do some real testing on the slopes of Tremblant and provide me with no-BS feedback,” says Kondor. Bradley and the skiers gave the goggles an enthusiastic thumbs-up and shortly afterwards, the pair boarded a plane in to visit four factories in China and completed their first order. XSPEX launched their products commercially last year with a logo that features a maple leaf, true to Kondor’s vision of establishing a Canadian brand. “We have proudly introduced the largest full-line selection of magnetic release lenses in the alpine goggle industry. This means that, in less than 10 seconds, you can swap your lenses, even with your gloves on—no more worries about freezing your fingers, having to go back to the chalet to change

lenses, or messy fingerprints all over your lenses,” says Kondor. All eight of XSPEX’s models come with two lenses for day and low-light conditions, a protective carrying case, and an ultra-soft pouch for extra protection and lens cleaning. And, because everyone wants to look hip on the slopes, they come in a variety of colours (including a junior model for little rippers). XSPEX sponsors skiers on the international Dew Tour and X Games and two-time Olympian Patrick Biggs, wears their goggles as part of their product test team. Looking forward to next season, Kondor says they are creating innovative goggle strap designs celebrating Indigenous and youth expression. “We have commissioned local artist Rod Ostamas to paint locally-inspired themes that include images of Nanabijou (the Sleeping Giant) and northern wildlife,” he says, adding that XSPEX “loves being local to Thunder Bay—all our product testing is done here, and we use local printing companies and graphic designers almost exclusively.” Thinking longer-term, he says they would like to move the assembly to Canada and eventually the production. Kondor and Bradley will be working hard, but loving every minute of it. XSPEX googles are available locally at the Ski & Board Exchange, Rollin’ Thunder, J & J Sports, Intercity Power Sports, Half-Way Motors Power Sports, and xspex.ca.

CityScene

Lighting the North Local Speaker, Educator, and Advocate Featured in Anthology By Wendy Wright

Crystal Hardy

remarkable book is coming out this fall from a varied group of female storytellers. The stories within this anthology are reflections on a woman’s place in this country and a woman’s view of the same. Lighting the North: An Anthology of Feminism and Cultural Diversity from Across the Nation is a collection of stories from authors of varied backgrounds who share their insights as to what it is like to be a woman and a feminist in Canada today. Although the writers come from varying backgrounds, the stories are all woven together with a feminist perspective. Thunder Bay resident Crystal Hardy is one of eight women whose stories are featured in the anthology. Hardy’s story is entitled “Daanis,” which is the Anishinabek word for daughter. As she wrote and discovered what she wanted to share, she realized that the story was best told as a letter written to her own daughter, and should encompass

all daughters and be for all daughters. She explains how parts of the story came to be through memories that came to her while writing. “My daughter’s role models will be different than mine and that’s okay,” she says. “The most important thing is to be authentic.” As an Indigenous woman, educator, advocate, and storyteller, Hardy is interested in the difference between the written and spoken word. “It’s in the delivery,” she says, smiling. Anyone can see the gift of storytelling is in her. She tells her story with grace and light—“lighting the way gently,” she calls it. Zongwe Binesikwe, or “Sounding Thunderbird Woman” she truly is. Sincerity shines through her spoken word, and undoubtedly the written will be as bright. Lighting the North is for all of us, and gives us the rare ability to have a glimpse into someone else’s world, “not with torches and fire but with light and love,” as Hardy describes it. For more information about Crystal Hardy, visit zongwebinesikwe.com and for more information about Lighting the North, visit goldenbrickroad.pub.

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Tammy Wilson Studio of the Performing Arts PROFESSIONAL SINGER â&#x20AC;˘ VOCAL MUSIC EDUCATOR â&#x20AC;˘ CONSULTANT TRANSFORMATIONAL ARTS COURSE

PRIVATE VOCAL LESSONS CHORAL WORKSHOPS MENTORING/CONSULTING

Expressive Arts Course for Adults

Private Lessons

She offers private voice lessons for aspiring beginners (13 years +), singers preparing for a career, beginner amateur adults, and professional singers.

Choral Workshops

Her approach in the workshops is to enable the singers to use and understand voice techniques based on solid contemporary voice pedagogy.

Mentoring/Consulting

She offers Ontario K-8 music curriculum mentoring and consulting services to school boards, individual teachers and groups of teachers.

10 week course Thursdays 7:30-9:00pm Mar 26 -May 28 This course is an interactive exploration of the creative process using music, movement, poetic narrative, drawing, individual and group dance, reflective exchanges, performance and witnessing practices combined to bring about self-awareness, growth, healing, and wellness. Expressive Arts does not require art training or talent in the arts. It is about working with your creative process, igniting inspiration, and following it to where it leads you. Gentle meditation is part of this class. This course is designed to empower individuals to utilize expressive arts as a catalyst for change and transformation in their personal lives, in their communities, and throughout the world.

Tammy Wilson is a professional singer, songwriter, musician, writer, vocal music educator, dance educator, choir educator, and arts & culture consultant. Tammy has 30 years of experience in the performing arts as a professional singer and 20 years of experience as a music educator and commercial voice coach for professional singers. She holds an honours bachelor of music degree in vocal performance and a bachelor of education degree. For private lessons, mentorship/consultation, or registration for classes, contact Tammy at 807-358-2233 or email: dove_songs@hotmail.com

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CityScene

EYE TO EYE

With Brian Hamilton As Told To Nancy Saunders, Photos by Kay Lee Long-time local business owner and McKellar Ward Councillor Brian Hamilton talks about his sweet tooth, poetic leanings, and where he spends his downtime. What’s the last book you read? To completion, Seven Fallen Feathers. What’s your favourite breakfast? Oatmeal and fruits on weekdays, pancakes and bacon on weekends Have you binged watched anything lately? Yeah, it’s a show called Life Below Zero. It’s a show about people living subsistence lifestyles. To be honest, I don’t watch a tonne of TV and when I do it’s PBS or TVO or kid’s shows for that matter. What’s on your playlist? I still use CDs, but close at hand are usually the classics: Alice in Chains, Ani DiFranco, Slayer, 2Pac, James Brown, Johnny Cash.

What’s your favourite app? Calendar (is that an app?) What’s your hidden talent? I love to write poetry, but I’m unsure if I’m talented. Are you a hockey fan? I’m not, but I thought I liked playoff hockey, but I actually realized that pre-playoffs is even more gruelling hockey. So I am turning into a hockey fan and I’m a fan of the Thunderwolves. We go whenever we can. What’s your guilty pleasure? Several. All things sweet, travel without timelines, unending coffee shop chatter. What do you do to unwind? Adventure with the kids of Evergreen, cleaning city streets (mindless but impactful labour), spending time in the forest with my family.

The Walleye

CityScene

Wax Nostalgic Story by Tiffany Jarva, Photos by Darren McChristie

an Kardas, a.k.a. “Wild Child Daniel” and “The Danimal,” comes by his love of anything downhill honestly. His dad Slavomir “Slav” Kardas competed in the Olympics and coached TBay’s superstar ski jumper Steve Collins. In the 1990s, local boy Dan was cheered on at the World Cup ski jumping competitions; he coached the British team in 2002. The middle child of three boys, Dan and his brothers took over Mount Baldy

Ski Resort a few years ago, and he and older brother Kristof continue to run the family’s hip Ski & Board Exchange (in the early days known as Deep Powder Ski Hut), 30 years in business. Dan dishes on the art of waxing, his workspace, the things that help him get the job done (waxing over 1,000 skis for speed every season!), while having way too much fun doing so—all in a converted historic garage space on the south side’s Syndicate Avenue.

▲ Yellow “Tickle Trunk” - “This tickle trunk is worth thousands of dollars in speed. All pro wax technicians own tricks of the trade. It can be quite amazing how secretive they can be.”

▲ Dan’s “Best Fall” Award - “You gotta see this—definitely one of my favourite things in this space.”

▼ Jigs - “I have over 20 different jigs to help mount bindings properly, and 50 to 60 different types of bindings. If I don’t have the right jig I just won’t do the mount.”

WALL SPACE

▲ Swix Wax - “My go-to has always been SWIX. You wanna use blue and green for colder weather and red and yellow when it’s warmer.”

62 The Walleye

CityScene

▲ Iron - “When heating up the base I have to keep moving the iron. The last thing I want to do is burn the base. This helps the pores of the base open up, hydrating the ski.” ▼ Paint Brush - “This is just a regular paint brush that I use to dust off the skis.”

▼ “In colder weather you use a horsehair brush to buff the skis and in the warmer weather you use a copper brush, which allows the water to pass by. I’ve had this brush for 15 years, and every time you use the brush the polish gets better. This brush is molded to my hand.”

The Walleye

CityScene

This is Thunder Bay Interviews by Nancy Saunders, Photos by Laura Paxton This month we asked The Walleye readers how they feel about Daylight Saving Time, and if we should stop the practice here in the city that was the first place in Canada to adopt it in 1908.

Nick: I like it when I gain an hour, but when I lose an hour I don’t like it.

John and Ben: I don’t know. That’s a tricky question. I think Daylight Saving Time is kind of useless. It throws you right off pattern for months on end.

Mike: Who is it trying to save?

64 The Walleye

Anali: Well, Saskatchewan doesn’t have Daylight Saving Time… I think in order to stay consistent across the country, we all don’t need to have it. We could all adopt the same thing. Then nobody would be confused and get to work too early or too late.

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CityScene

Raptors Superfan Coming to Thunder Bay

Nav Bhatia to Speak on Embracing Diversity By Pat Forrest

oronto has been named the most multicultural city in the world, yet many of the immigrants to the city say that they still encounter racism long after they’ve arrived. Toronto Raptors superfan and businessman Nav Bhatia is no exception. After overcoming significant prejudice and obstacles as an immigrant and a Sikh, today he is proud of his successful business enterprises as well as of his role with the Raptors and his work with youth in need through the Nav Bhatia Superfan Foundation. Bhatia will be in Thunder Bay on March 19 as the keynote speaker for the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Celebration Breakfast. After immigrating to Toronto from India with a mechanical engineering degree in 1984, Bhatia had racially offensive jokes and name-calling directed at him because he was wearing a turban on his first day of work as a car salesperson. He made a choice. Rather than fight back with insults, he took a positive route by letting his hard work do the talking. He sold 127 cars in just 90 days, a record that stands to this day. Bhatia soon became the manager and today owns that dealership along

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with two others in Ontario. In his presentations, Bhatia focuses on what he terms “the power of diversity.” He challenges his audiences to think about how we can become much more inclusive as a society. This is, he says, an important and necessary step for us and for the world if we want to survive. “I like to motivate people to get out of their comfort zone, to get to know their neighbours and their belief systems. Diversity is our strength so let’s move forward with it,” he says. Breakfast co-chair Lisa Beckwick says, “Diversity Thunder Bay is pleased to bring Nav Bhatia to Thunder Bay to share his story of immigrating to Canada, his experiences in his career, and also his work with the Raptors. Nav will help us understand how to make new immigrants feel welcome in our community as he believes diversity is our strength and that immigration is critical to our future.” The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Celebration Breakfast will be held on March 19 from 7:30–9 am at the Victoria Inn. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at diversitythunderbay.ca.

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66 The Walleye

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CityScene involved with the Country Market has been an incredible experience, according to Roberts. “We absolutely love being a part of the market family and are extremely grateful for the friendships that come as a result of being involved.” Come on down to the Thunder Bay Country Market and grab a cup of Shakespeare's Sister at the Rose N Crantz Roasting Co. For more information find them on Facebook or at rnccoffee.ca.

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Rose N Crantz Roasting Co. Story and Photos by Aelin Foster

ooking for an excellent cup of coffee? Look no further— Rose N Crantz Roasting Co. has been providing top quality coffee at the Thunder Bay Country Market for over three years now. After falling in love with roasting coffee beans on his home roaster, Jamie Nichols started the company in 2013 to bring ethically sourced, locally roasted coffee to Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario. Nichols then brought the coffee to the market as a supplier for the Waking Giant Coffee stall, until he took over the space in early 2017. Since then, Nichols and partner Jesse Roberts have continued growing Rose N Crantz with new coffees and ideas. Last year they launched Shakespeare’s Sister, a green coffee purchased through the Women Coffee Producers Program. “From farm to roast, this line (which began with an amazing coffee from

68 The Walleye

Mexico) is developed by the RnCRC Roastery Manager, Evie Sitch, and she's doing an incredible job with it,” says Roberts. More recently, they started a Suspended Coffee initiative at the market, allowing people to pay it forward and buy a coffee for a stranger. "The growing movement in Thunder Bay is to focus on community and neighbours motivated us to get here. At a surface level, it is extremely simple—$2 means someone else can enjoy a drink," Roberts says. "But it so much more than that: it's a tangible way to show people that you care about how they are doing." Community is a big part of Rose N Crantz Roasting Co.’s values; they contribute to global organizations such as World Coffee Research as well as support local groups such as Roots to Harvest, EcoSuperior, and the Country Market. Getting

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The Walleye

CityScene has made time for sketching, especially drawings of trains. Over the years, he has received pictures of the flag flying over sister cities like Gifu City in Japan, and held by local climbers at the top of a mountain in Kathmandu, Nepal. He continues

to enjoy seeing it at parades, ceremonies and buildings around town too—and always makes sure to check that it’s in good condition. Does he fly it at his Slate River farm? “I don’t have a flagpole!” he says.

Some 1970s highlights 1970 Thunder Bay’s Carol Commisso becomes Miss Canada 1971 Magnus Theatre is established 1972 Thunder Bay Museum opens

Cliff Redden poses with his original design, May 1972

Waving Our Flag

1973 Mayor Walter Assef is elected Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visit Thunder Bay, including the newly opened Old Fort William

1974 CBC Radio One begins in Thunder Bay 1975 Thunder Bay Twins win hockey’s Allan Cup Curlers Bill Tetley, Bill Hodgson Jr., Peter Hnatiw, and Rick Lang win the Brier 1976 Thunder Bay Art Gallery opens Downhill skier Dave Irwin represents Canada at the Winter Olympics

1977 Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame is established 1978 Mayor Eleanor Joan (Dusty) Miller is elected Thunder Bay Terminals Ltd. Is established in the Port of Thunder Bay Norval Morrisseau is named to the Order of Canada 1978–79 The city shivers through its coldestever winter (a record tied in 2014)

Local Resident Cliff Redden Designed Thunder Bay’s Flag in 1972 By Bonnie Schiedel would be easy to see at a distance. Each group then picked their two favourites, and the final eight were voted on by secret ballot. “I remember the deliberations were really long, and I could see that they were taking it seriously,” says Black. “They were so enthusiastic.” He says that while there were many excellent designs, Cliff’s stood out for his use of colour. “That was the one, there was no doubt about it.” Redden was shocked when he received a letter informing him he had won the contest. (He spent the prize money on unglamorous but necessary car repairs.) “Seeing the flag flying for the first time at the flag-raising ceremony felt really good. I went up with Mayor Laskin to the roof of City Hall to raise it.” While not formally trained as an artist, Redden has always loved art, and in his off-hours of various careers that included driving a truck, social work and casino security, he

Darren McChristie

“T

he design popped into my head right away,” says Cliff Redden, winner of the 1972 design contest for a Thunder Bay flag. Mayor Saul Laskin wanted a new flag for the new city, so the contest was advertised in the city papers, with a prize of $75. Redden wanted to incorporate both Canada’s red maple leaf and the Sleeping Giant, and he used the city colours of gold and green to show the gold of the rising sun and the green trees of the Giant, all balanced by the blue of Lake Superior. The contest was popular, and 150 people submitted their entries. Jake Black, then the art supervisor at the Lakehead Board of Education, gathered 19 outstanding art students from local high schools to be the judges. He broke them into four groups, and each group walked around the designs that were carefully placed on the floor, discussing the merits of each, such as if they

Flag designer Cliff Redden on his farm in Slate River, February 2020

70 The Walleye

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601 Central Avenue 345-2900 www.teleco.ca Limited time offer. Promotional pricing for Tbaytel services applies to new residential customers who have not subscribed to applicable services in the past 3 months. Internet promotional pricing for year one applies to High Speed Max/Fibre 25 Internet packages or higher, Fibre Gigabit is an additional $10/month. Year 2 pricing varies per Internet plan. TV promotional pricing for year one applies to Basic TV only; promotional rates to upgrade to Deluxe, Supreme and Ultimate are $20, $38 and $70 respectively. Year 2 pricing varies per TV plan. Promotional pricing for Internet and TV services reflects prices after any applicable and eligible bundle discounts are applied. Prices advertised do not include taxes. Bonus Credit(s) are applicable for 2 Year Advantage plans only. Credits applied as $100 per Internet sign up and $100 per TV sign up. Cancellation of Tbaytel service(s) prior to the end of the 24-month term will result in the removal of any remaining credits applied from this promotion plus a cancellation penalty of $10 per service per month remaining in the contract term. Services are subject to availability where access and technology permit. Free PVRs are rentals and must be returned to Tbaytel if service is cancelled, otherwise hardware replacement fees will apply. Hardware provided by Tbaytel, either rented or purchased, may be new or refurbished. Offer, prices and services subject to change anytime.

The Walleye

Success Adds Up

Lorencio Di Gregorio

Jesse Langen

Makayla Mihaljevic

Dhruti Sonani

Greg Holland

Success is the result of perseverance, hard work and the ability to capitalize on opportunities. MNP proudly congratulates our Thunder Bay team members Lorencio Di Gregorio, Jesse Langen, Greg Holland, Makayla Mihaljevic and Dhruti Sonani on successfully completing the 2019 Common Final Exam (CFE). As a leading national accounting and business consulting firm, here are five more ways we can help your business succeed. For more information, contact our Thunder Bay office at 807.623.2141

72 The Walleye

MNP.ca

Music

Marlena Pellegrino Principal Viola, TBSO By Kris Ketonen Born: Toronto Instrument: Viola Age you started to study music: Violin at age five How long have you been with TBSO: In her first season What’s on personal playlist: It changes, but the list currently includes Russian composers such as Stravinsky, Shostakovich, and Rachmaninoff, as well as Tom Waits and Snarky Puppy

arlena Pellegrino is certainly enjoying her time with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. “What I’m really appreciating about [the TBSO] is the sense of camaraderie,” says Pellegrino, the symphony’s principal viola. “The colleagues, and the environment, is very friendly, and familial, and supportive. That’s really, really nice, and I think something that’s very unique to Thunder Bay. You get the feeling you could always talk to anyone, or feel free to ask questions, and it’s a very welcoming environment.” It’s something that manifests on stage during performances, as well, Pellegrino says. “Because it’s such a small group, it feels a lot like chamber music a lot of the time. We’re able to get a really full sound, and

get all the benefits of feeling like we’re playing in a chamber group, because we’re able to get to know everyone on a personal level.” Prior to joining the TBSO, Pellegrino started studying violin at McGill University, studying with violinist Axel Strauss, and finished her undergrad at the University of Ottawa with violin and viola virtuoso Yehonatan Berick. Then, Pellegrino found herself at something of a musical crossroads, trying to decide what to do next. “At that time, a new teacher, a viola teacher called Michael van der Sloot…came in to teach at the University of Ottawa,” she says. “I enjoyed being there, and I thought I I always wanted to play viola. I thought, well, this is the perfect time to start a Master’s in viola.” She graduated with her Master’s in June. “I always loved the sound [of the viola],” she says. “The deeper, lower tone of the viola…and also the role it plays in chamber music, as an inner voice. It’s able to join in with the violins, and take on a very melodic role, at times, and it’s also able to be part of the cello bass team, and take on more of a bass role. It’s very versatile in that way.”

The Walleye

Music

(L-R): Andrew Wade as Art Garfunkel and George Clements as Paul Simon

The Simon and Garfunkel Story

Acclaimed Show Visits TBCA this Month Story by Kris Ketonen, Photos by Lane Peters

rom their humble beginnings and rise to fame to their dramatic break-up, The Simon & Garfunkel Story leaves no notes unsung when it comes to the beloved folk-rock duo. “It’s basically like a concert-style performance,” says Andrew Wade, who portrays Art Garfunkel in the show, alongside George Clements as Paul Simon. “We do, I think, 31 songs total, including an instrumental medley that happens toward the end. We kind of tell their story and journey along the way in-between songs in a third-person narrative.” The story told onstage starts right at the beginning, when Simon and Garfunkel began performing as Tom & Jerry. It goes on to cover

74 The Walleye

their rise to fame and their split, culminating with their reunion at the Concert in Central Park in 1981. Wade says a lot of work went into preparing for the role of Garfunkel. “I watched a lot of interviews,” he says. “For me, it’s important to not just understand the mannerisms, and the vocal stylings, you know, but also who the people are. It’s different when you’re portraying a real person than when you're portraying a fictional character. You want to pay homage to these people, and portray them in a way that is exaggerated, in a way, to portray those memorable things about them, but also be honest with who they are.” For example, Wade recalls an

interview in which Garfunkel was asked when he knew that he had a special gift, referring to his voice. Garfunkel said he knew at four years old. That, Wade says, “is absurd to most people, to know that at four years old you know what you’re going to be doing, and you know you have something special to offer the world. It’s not arrogance, it’s

supreme confidence. [Garfunkel] never has doubted, in his life, that this is what he was meant to do. I try to add that in, too, with my approach.” The Simon & Garfunkel Story visits the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on March 13. For more information, visit thesimonandgarfunkelstory.com.

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The Walleye

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Music

Noondaagotoon 3 Cultures Meeting Through Music

Story by Steph Skavinski, Photos by Lois Nuttall

or the third year running, the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra presents a celebration of Indigenous music and culture, curated by singer-songwriter Shy-Anne Hovorka. The first Noondaagotoon (“play it” in Ojibway) concert in 2018 was a success, and in its second year was inducted into the TBSO’s Northern Lights concert series. The mastermind behind the original concept, Hovorka says, “The first two

concerts went over very well, and we had a fantastic turnout. I think the main objective is not only to showcase Indigenous talent, but also to help build a strong bridge between our very diverse communities that make up Thunder Bay.” The Northern Lights series is the TBSO’s opportunity to shine a spotlight on a featured artist/artists for an entire evening (unlike a concert featuring a concerto, where the artist is featured for one major

piece of music on the program). Previously, the Noondaagotoon concerts have featured Hovorka alongside guest artists like Don Amero, Indian City, Nick Sherman, and many others. Though Hovorka will not be performing this year, she is excited about the lineup. “Diana Lidemark will be performing some powerful Ojibway women’s songs on the hand-drum, and Thunder Mountain Singers will be gracing the stage with the Grandfather Drum. I feel this will be epic in sound and community, melding two distinct cultures through music.” Music has always been a powerful force for us humans, oftentimes bringing people together in unexpected ways. It speaks to

something deep within us, stirring us to action, or pulling on our heartstrings, bonding together those who share it. This musical collaboration between the TBSO and Indigenous artists “creates a safe space for diverse members of our community to share, explore, and experience Indigenous music as well as Western symphonic music,” says Hovorka. “In light of reconciliation too, I feel this event really brings it to light in a good way.”

The Italian Cultural Centre March 27 and 28 tbso.ca

The Walleye

Music

Folk-Roots Duo Flocks to New Nest Two Crows for Comfort Stops by Algoma House By Michael Charlebois

or the last three years, Algoma House has made a name for itself in the wider music community by offering a cosy, intimate “stop-on-the-road” for performers. On March 6, the Manitoba-based singer-songwriter band Two Crows for Comfort will play at the venue during the duo’s first-ever Thunder Bay visit. “We’re really excited. It sounds like people are going to be into our style of music,” says Cory Sulyma, one-half of the folk-roots duo. Sulyma and his bandmate Erin Corbin will stop in during the

78 The Walleye

back-end of their Ontario-Manitoba tour, which starts in Fort Frances on February 22. Don’t worry about a low-energy performance, though: the band says they’ve got the travel bug. “We’re completely hooked,” Sulyma says. “We love travelling, playing music, and meeting new people.” Their style, according to Sulyma, encompasses storytelling, Americana, intricate harmonies, and intimacy—a classic formula for a classic folk sound. “We love playing our own music, but we find a good recipe is to mix in solid covers,”

Sulyma says. “Super-familiar stuff like Eric Clapton, or even Selena Gomez… we like to spice things up.” As for Chad Kirvan, one of the organizers of the venue, he says there hasn’t been a secret ingredient into turning the Algoma House into a well-known venue for touring artists. After hosting nearly 50 shows in the past three years, he took it as another good sign when the Manitoba folk band reached out to him. “It’s becoming more common for people to reach out to us,” Kirvan says. “It feels weird. I never expected it to take off like this.”

Kirvan says the venue takes a laid-back approach with their bookings, but definitely does encourage interaction with the audience. “We love banter for both parties. It makes it feel like more of a show.” Sulyma says this is something the audience can definitely expect on March 6. “An intimate show is what we specialize in.” To get a taste of what’s to come, Two Crows for Comfort’s debut album 17 Feet is available on all streaming platforms. Tickets to the show can be purchased at algomahouse.ca.

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Music

Rodent Bliss New Sounds from Cam Hopkins & the King Rat By Justin Allec

am Hopkins, local musician and most recently a member I.R. Idiot and the now-dissolved low-fi grungers Piggybank, realized that he needed to start from scratch to bring out the songs in his head. It’s often a problem musicians have when they get pigeonholed into a genre, in that the expectations to cater to a particular sound begin to dictate the writing process. “These [song ideas] didn’t quite fit the vibe of my old band and I wanted to experiment musically with different genres more…I had been listening to a lot of Damon Albarn of Blur and Gorillaz fame and the eclectic variety really appealed to me,” Hopkins says, then

80 The Walleye

lists about 10 genres he’s interested in. Bringing the songs to fruition meant that Hopkins had to start recruiting, and find specific local musicians to match the projected sounds. Eventually he brought in Andrew and Aiden Domenis (Visions of Doyle, Lord Hidetora) for guitar and drums respectively, and Josh Therriault (Shatterhorn, Escapist) on bass to join in the fun. The band’s already released a seven-song, self-titled debut to all streaming platforms, and Hopkins is right: it does sound nothing like his other bands. While this could still be broadly called indie rock, that’s just because the guitars have that low-fi crunch to them and the vocals are more interested in being

loudly enthusiastic than singing specific notes. As he wanted to, Hopkins is invoking a few different genres, sometimes within a single song. There’s rampaging surf guitars, swirling dream pop, classic rock soloing, even some country-fried picking thrown in to make the melodies hit harder. “To be able to compare a small seedling of an idea to the garden of sounds it grows into once it’s finished is amazing,” Hopkins says before one again lauding his band members. “You can’t undervalue how much of an inspiration your friends are, especially when many of them are artists in their own right as well.” Hopkins credits that cycle of creativity for how quickly and

satisfactorily the King Rat project came together. Presently, the band is content to focus on recording more songs and playing the occasional show. Hopkins is currently in Montreal for school, so the band really values what shows they do get to play together. Since every member of the band is active locally in the arts scene, Hopkins notes that collaboration with visual artists for videos and establishing a greater online presence are the current priorities. Beyond that, Andrew Domenis sums up the band’s approach to the future: “Make rats, not war.” For more information, visit facebook.com/ camhopkinsandthekingrat

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Music

BURNING TO THE SKY

Sarah McLachlan, with a dash of Dolly mixed in. My all-time favourite Sarah Harmer song is from her 2004 album All of Our Names. The single “Almost” from that disc is just about perfect indie pop. Both driving, and spare, with tiny dashes of reggae and more than a touch of Liz Phair, it is an epic piece of songwriting. Harmer’s voice floats above the fray, and provides the perfect counterpoint to the pumping electrics. That song made the Top 20 on the Canadian pop charts, and holds up incredibly well when heard 16 years later. Harmer also has been very active in a variety of ecological causes. In 2005, she co-founded PERL (Protecting Escarpment Rural Land), an organization which sought to protect the Niagara Escarpment from being used for gravel pit development. She embarked on an acoustic tour of the escarpment, performing at theatres and halls in towns in the area. Harmer also wrote the foreword for a book The Last Stand: A Journey Through the Ancient

Cliff-Face Forest of the Niagara Escarpment, which was published in 2007. In 2018, she joined a protest against the expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. Last month Harmer released Are You Gone, her first album in a decade. A press release for the album calls it a “deeply personal and political collection of songs motivated by the beauty of life, the urgency of the climate crisis, and the question of loss.” It is also being hailed as a spiritual successor to You Were Here, as its simple title, Are You Gone, is a meditation on the idea of presence, and a bookend to the questions posed on You Were Here. The first single, “New Low,” is musically a move towards lean, driven pop. There is more than a little bit of an Exile in Guyville groove happening here, and that is a good thing. The song certainly bodes well for both the album and the return of Sarah Harmer to the musical scene. And that is most welcome, because she is brilliant.

Sarah Harmer

A Voice of Pop, Power, and Activism Story by Gord Ellis, Photo by Vanessa Heins

ack in the early 2000s, I was spending a lot of time working as an associate producer for the afternoon show with CBC Thunder Bay. A large part of the job was tracking down music to play, which—as you can imagine—was a good gig. There was an internal newsletter that came out and one of them spoke glowingly of an artist named Sarah Harmer. I’d heard her name, but when the cut “Don't Get Your Back Up” came spilling out of the speakers, it was a eureka moment. It just seemed like such perfect power pop, without any of the gloss. The songwriting was muscular, as was the musicianship. The band sounded like a team of horses that’s being held back ever so gently from going full steam. The biggest treat

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was Harmer’s voice. It was full, a little bit sad, but not backing down. When I spoke glowingly about Harmer to my brother Roy, he told me he had been a big fan of Harmer when she had been in a band called Weeping Tile. He had seen them live and said she had “rocked out.” It turned out that some of the songs on the album on her breakout album You Were Here were re-recordings of songs she had done with Weeping Tile, and another band called The Saddletramps. And as pop-y as some of the songs were, there were very deep folk roots exposed, the incredibly beautiful “Lodestar” perhaps the best example. In that song, you could also hear that Harmer had created some kind of magical line between Alanis and

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Music

Blues Blast 2020 Thunder Bay Blues Society Presents Full Day Event

Story by Ken Wright, Photo by Alfonso Zirpoli

Mississippi Heat

uilding on 2019, its most successful year in recent memory, the Thunder Bay Blues Society is expressing its appreciation for both its members and Thunder Bay blues fans with Blues Blast 2020. The full-day event, which will be staged at the Port

Arthur Polish Hall on March 28, will feature some fine local bands and three prominent international acts. Based out of Memphis, Tennessee, Tony Holiday and the Soul Service combines traditional blues, soul, and Americana with plenty of contemporary punch.

Band leader Tony Holiday has been recognized as one of today's top young harmonica players by Charlie Musselwhite and James Harman, who are among several veteran reedmen joining him on his new CD of informal field recordings, Porch Sessions. Slide guitarist Dave Weld is a storied stalwart of the Chicago blues scene. Mentored by the legendary J. B. Hutto, Weld performed with Hound Dog Taylor's band, the HouseRockers, and co-founded Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials before venturing solo as Dave Weld &the Imperial Flames in 1988. Noted for their high energy show of blues, boogie and soul, this six-piece outfit were finalists at the 36th annual International Blues Challenge in Memphis last January. Formed in 1991 and led by harmonica master Pierre Lacocque,

Blues Blast 2020 headliners, Mississippi Heat are a world-class Chicago blues band that lives by their motto, “Traditional Blues With A Unique Sound.” Regulars at the Chicago Blues Festival, the group’s music always places solidly on blues album and radio charts. Universal acclaim has adorned their 12 CDs and accompanied their far-flung tours of North America, Europe, Tunisia, Venezuela, Mexico, and Dubai. Last January, they entertained over 2,000 blues fans on the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise in the western Caribbean. With six great bands, convivial camaraderie galore, and an exciting in-door festival vibe, this celebration of blues music and impending spring is not to be missed! For more information, visit thunderbaybluessociety.ca.

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Music

Respecting the Roots of Solo Success Ariel Posen Makes Solo Return to Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society

Story by Melanie Larson, Photo by Lynette Giesbrecht

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or many local concertgoers, the name Ariel Posen might ring a bell or two. Although the Winnipeg based singer-songwriter performed at last year’s Thunder Bay Bluesfest, it was not his first appearance on a Thunder Bay stage. In 2015, Posen’s longtime position as guitarist for The Bros. Landreth brought him to the Bluesfest and the Sleeping Giant Folk Music Society’s concert series. Now, this seasoned performer will

make his SGFMS solo debut at the Port Arthur Polish Hall on March 7. Ariel Posen spent much of his childhood touring and hanging out in the studio with his parents and their band Finjan, a group of Juno-nominated klezmer revivalists. So, naturally, the transition into becoming a musician was “a very natural thing,” recalls Posen. “I had the drive and I was encouraged to push it.” By his late teens, Posen had racked up years of experience gigging across Winnipeg, which led him to play with long-time collaborators, The Bros. Landreth, until their hiatus in 2015. “I made my whole career playing guitar for artists, bands, and other combos. The decision to go solo happened very naturally and unplanned,” recalls Posen. “I found myself with time, and was playing some shows where I was ‘fronting’ for fun, and I remember that I really enjoyed doing that type of thing. I decided to start writing some material just to see where it goes.” Posen’s debut album, How Long, saw the musician formerly known as guitar slinger flex his muscles as a singer-songwriter hellbent on telling a good story. How Long was recorded at Stereobus Recording, the same studio where he had spent his childhood, and where, in November of last year, he recorded a live album among family and friends. “Familiar Ground was the last piece released under the How Long album cycle,” says Posen of the live project. “I've really enjoyed the process, but I'm equally if not more excited for new music.” With a second album well under way, Posen urges audiences to expect “a bunch of new material (and old) blended with lots of singing, lots of guitar playing, and lots of witty banter from the stage.”

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Music

Sibelius Sings The Biggest Concert of the Year for the TBSO Story by Ayano Hodouchi Dempsey, Photos by Kevin Dempsey

he Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra’s concert on February 6 was the highlight of its 59th season, showcasing not only the city’s Finnish heritage, but also its diverse talent, young and old. The evening kicked off with a hum; Russian-Canadian composer Airat Ichmouratov’s Chamber Symphony No.4 was a breath of fresh air, bright and breezy despite an uneasy sense of urgency. The ticking of a clock is a recurrent theme throughout the movements,

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and conductor Paul Haas brought it to life with a skillfully subtle hand. Next came Prokofiev’s Second Violin Concerto with the TBSO’s own concertmaster Thomas Cosbey as the soloist. The gentle and pure waltz of the second movement brought out the best of Cosbey and his violin—sweet and melodious, with a sparkling luminosity. After the intermission, the Thunder Bay Symphony Youth Orchestra, Thunder Bay Symphony Chorus, and Oras Chamber Choir

joined the TBSO on stage— and suddenly, the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium was looking like a big city venue. Over 200 musicians, some as young as 12 years old, came together to deliver a rousing Finlandia, led by the fiery and dynamic Maria Fuller. Written for a public demonstration in Helsinki during Russian oppression, the determined and passionate music found instant fame in Finland and continues to be popular to this day. The 41 players of the youth orchestra (ages 12 to 22) sat amongst the professional players and all played as one to deliver a consummate performance.

The concert wrapped up with another work by Jean Sibelius, his Symphony No.2. Despite the massive scale of the work (45 minutes), Haas’ direction never let it lag, and delivered music that was vast yet delicate at the same time. In the uplifting finale, (often associated with patriotic sentiment, despite the composer’s denials), Haas contrasted the majestic and fervent music with moments of humble and prayer-like tranquility. The TBSO’s Masters Series will continue next month with a performance of Shostakovich’s Symphony No.5 on March 12.

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OfftheWall

REVIEWS

Don’t Need Sun to Shine

Live From Moscow

The James Yeldon Band

Elton John with Ray Cooper

It’s easy to be surprised on a first listen. What’s exciting is when it keeps happening—those are the albums that keep giving. I’m still not entirely sure how The James Yeldon Band figured out their sound on this debut, but it’s been generous so far. A shambling variety of country-rock that’s more Wilco than Waylon, the local five-piece tear through these nine songs with bittersweet abandon. There’s just a hint of sadness to these songs, a dour rain cloud floating over your otherwise perfect day that makes Don’t Need Sun to Shine an altogether human album. The music’s balanced by Yeldon’s hangdog vocals, which are a true delight in being slightly subdued, wryly introspective, and immediately singable. This is an extremely strong showing for a band just starting out, regardless of the members’ experience, and easily hurdles over any limitations you might think a local “country” band would have. Gift them a few dollars on Bandcamp and you’ll find yourself with an album that’ll leave you smiling—and surprised— regardless of the weather.

I’ve always been a fan of Elton John’s early recordings. I was interested, then, when Universal Music decided to release Live from Moscow 1979. Back then, Elton John was one of the first Western musicians allowed to perform in the Soviet Union. The concert was part of a world tour that featured Elton John and drummer Ray Cooper. But I’m not all that enthused with this live recording. Elton John’s vocals are thin and hollow. They seem off-mic at times and there’s an echo in the concert hall. There is more warmth to his piano, but the mix has it fighting with his vocals on most cuts. Cooper, who performs with John on some of the cuts, is almost non-existent on many of them. Given the recording’s shortcomings, there are a few gems on the album. “Rocket Man” and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” are both good examples. I’d have a hard time recommending this live album unless you’re a huge fan of Elton John.

- Justin Allec

- Gerald Graham

Loss

Jean-Paul De Roover

Are You Gone

Sarah Harmer

Aptly released on February 14, Loss is the flipside of the coin to Jean-Paul De Roover’s recently released Love (summer 2019). This album definitely has a harder-edged sound, so don’t expect the heart-on-his-sleeve storytelling we heard in this album’s counterpart. Heavy rock drumming, guitar distortion, dissonance, and more assertive vocals remind me of De Roover’s early music scene roots. These facets lend themselves to a dense sound that reflects the weight of what it means to lose someone, or something: an identity, an idea, a place, or a way of being. We all need other people at different times—especially when we experience loss—and it’s true that there is strength in numbers. With a bevy of guest vocalists on “Wreck” (over 35 singers), and Morning Light’s Nancy Freeborn on “Float on Down,” De Roover, far from a one-man show, embraces music-making as a community experience.

Are You Gone, the first album in almost a decade from two-time Juno Award-winner Sarah Harmer, opens with “St. Peter’s Bay,” a haunting piece of Canadiana rich with moody acoustic guitars, dramatic strings, and a story of failing love. “New Low” follows the album’s eerie opener, with its hopeful, electric guitar-driven call for social action that asks, “If this gets us to our feet and grows/Who knows?” This duo sets the mood for the rest of Are You Gone, which is equal parts despairing and optimistic. Endearingly nostalgic and folky tracks like “Little Frogs” and “See Her Wave” sit comfortably between the chilling, vulnerable vibes of “Wildlife” and “Shoemaker.” However, from her playful performance on “Cowbirds” to the breathy falsetto-laced climax of “Shoemaker,”— a song so nice I mentioned it twice—Sarah Harmer’s vocal elasticity is the glue that binds these influences into one cohesive sign of the cautiously optimistic times.

- Steph Skavinski

- Melanie Larson

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The Slow Rush

The HoneyDew

For more than a year, Tame Impala have been slowly trickling out new music after the announcement of the release of The Slow Rush. Prior to the release, the Australian psychedelic rock-pop project led by Kevin Parker put out four of the 12 tracks off the aptly titled album. Since their stellar debut Innerspeaker, Tame Impala have been drifting away from rock and more towards pop. Other than tracks like “Borderline,” “Lost in Yesterday,” and “It Might Be Time,” the album is a bit lackadaisical in tempo. Gone are the fuzzed out Zeppelin-esque guitar solos; instead there’s a space disco vibe similar to Arcade Fire’s Reflektor and Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories. This might appeal to some listeners but it lacks the innovation of their previous efforts. The Slow Rush is well-polished, but maybe a bit too well-polished for my taste.

Want to hear the most infectious laugh on the planet? Pair it with a podcast that manages to transform vulnerability into a sense of comfort and you’ll be delightfully entertained by The HoneyDew. Sickler focuses on “highlighting the lowlights” while his guests open up about their sometimes painful but always incredible lives and experiences. His genuine intentions are evident as Sickler navigates through serious topics, all the while leaning on the humorous side of life. The HoneyDew brings people together and really emphasizes the importance of good health, family, and friends, and looking at the brighter side of life. Sickler’s quick wit and insanely hilarious laugh will definitely have you hooked (and smiling) in no time.

Tame Impala

- Adrian Lysenko

Ryan Sickler

- Andrea Lysenko

The Glass Hotel

Emily St. John Mandel The Glass Hotel is a story about the growth and the subsequent implosion of a Ponzi scheme, but it’s also much more than that. Throughout, Mandel explores the lives of those connected to and affected by the crime in a commentary about what it takes to abandon one’s conscience, convictions, and better judgment. I don’t think I’ve been so thoroughly impressed with a novel in a long time. The author writes with such insight, frequently presenting compelling concepts in ways unobtrusive to the plot and pacing. And she employs techniques that make her characters come alive, making their emotions feel real; as a result, the book gains a deep, emotional weight. On top of this, everything I disliked was small and superficial. It’s amazing to see how little the tiny negatives mattered while reading when so much in the outer plot and the inner soul of the book felt so solid.

Soup of the Day: 365 Recipes for Every Day of the Year Kate McMillan

I love soup. So I was very excited to discover Soup of the Day: 365 Recipes for Every Day of the Year by Kate McMillan. McMillan organizes the book by month and season, highlighting produce that is at its peak freshness throughout the year. I love how her recipes are all fairly straightforward, using everyday ingredients and easy directions. There’s such a variety of soups to choose from that you are sure to find something for every taste and occasion. And Erin Kunkel, an awardwinning photographer from San Francisco, really outdoes herself with the photographs—her gorgeous pictures are the perfect complement to the recipes and have my mouth watering in anticipation. - Shauna Kosoris

- Alexander Kosoris

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Architecture

The Caledonia Building

Adrian Lysenko

By Nicholas Duplessis

Adrian Lysenko

Photo courtesy of Thunder Bay Museum

he Caledonia Building has served as a staple in Fort William’s urban core for well over a century. Sitting at 311-319 Victoria Avenue East, the Caledonia Building has seen a resurgence in occupancy and economic activity over the last decade. The Caledonia Building was constructed in two phases between 1906–1908 by architect Carl Wirth. Initially, the structure was referred to as the Graham Horne Building, borrowed from the names of George A. Graham and John T. Horne, who together established one of the first sawmills at the Lakehead in the 1870s. Both men heavily invested in Port Arthur and Fort William’s emerging industries during the early decades of industrial development and also played influential roles in the region’s politics. In 1953, the Graham Horne Building became the Bank of Toronto Building. Only two years later, the building was renamed the Toronto Dominion Building. Over the course of its life, the Caledonia Building housed several local businesses intrinsic to the success of Fort William’s economy. In the decades succeeding Thunder

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Bay’s amalgamation, however, the once-bustling building became increasingly obsolete as the locus of economic activity shifted away from downtown Fort William. The building was purchased in 2007 by current owners Rhea and Phil Crook, kick-starting an 18-month renovation period that sought to modernize the building for use while still retaining its heritage and historical properties. In a conversation with the owners, the Crooks stated that, among the various other tasks, the renovations included power washing the brick and stone exterior, stripping oak hardwood and battleship linoleum floors, repainting throughout, and redesigning and replacing the outside awnings. The owners of the building further commented that they felt blessed to play a role in rejuvenating Fort William’s vibrant downtown core. The refurbishing of the building was successful and was rewarded with the 2015 Heritage Award. In the same year, the Caledonia Building earned a spot on the City of Thunder Bay’s Heritage Registry, reflecting its historical and cultural value. The building features three

Adrian Lysenko Adrian Lysenko Adrian Lysenko

Adrian Lysenko

storefronts with a central entrance to upstairs office space. Today, notable heritage and architectural features include original woodwork, glass, and flooring, brick and cement construction base, a top façade featuring equally spaced windows, and an oak staircase and moldings with terrazzo flooring in the entrance way. The Caledonia Building currently hosts 15 tenants that operate diverse businesses and non-profits from the space. The Caledonia Building played a significant role in Fort William’s past, and looks to play an equally important role in Thunder Bay’s future. It serves as an architectural and economic example that heritage properties can play in our city’s past and future. Nicholas Duplessis 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/ heritage.

Architecture

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Health

As someone who performs colonoscopy procedures, what do you recommend that people do who want to be screened? Dr. Green: Please speak with your primary care provider. They can help determine if and when screening is required, and which method is most appropriate for your individual situation. Has the new FIT kit resulted in any changes to colonoscopy locally?

The Scoop on Colon Cancer Screening By Sara Chow, Health Promotion and Communications Planner, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

early 40% of eligible adults in Northwestern Ontario are not up to date with their colon cancer screening. When considering that colon cancer is 90% curable when detected early through screening, we really need to encourage our population to get screened. How do you get screened? Do you need a colonoscopy? Does that new at-home test work well? These are all questions that Dr. Jordan Green, MD, FRCPC, Gastroenterologist, Regional Colorectal Screening GI/Endoscopy Co-Lead, answers for you.

Myth or Fact? The at-home colon cancer screening test doesn't work well. Dr. Green: Myth. The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit is a great method for colon cancer screening for average risk individuals. The test can conveniently be performed at home and there are no dietary or medication changes required. The test is quite sensitive

94 The Walleye

at detecting colon cancer and advanced polyps by measuring microscopic amounts of blood in the stool sample, and studies suggest it reduces the mortality associated with colon cancer. It is a much more convenient and sensitive test than the prior stool screening method, the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) kit, which was phased out in 2019.

test instead of a colonoscopy. The test is safe and avoids the use of a bowel preparation [medication], sedation, and the potential risks associated with colonoscopy. Patients can do the test in the convenience of their own home and do not need to take time away from work or other activities in order to complete the test.

Which screening method is better for an average risk individual, a colonoscopy or the FIT kit?

What would you say to someone who says “well, my doctor will just send me for colonoscopy?”

Dr. Green: The FIT test is the preferred screening method for patients with an average risk for colorectal cancer. Average risk is defined by being between ages of 50 to 74 years, with no symptoms and no first-degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child) having been diagnosed with colon cancer.

Dr. Green: While we are trying to increase the uptake of colon cancer screening in our community, not all patients require a colonoscopy. This is an important discussion to have with your primary care provider. First, one should ensure that they meet criteria for screening, and confirm whether they are considered average or high risk. This will then help guide which screening test is most appropriate for each individual patient.

What is the benefit of doing a FIT kit vs a colonoscopy? Are there any benefits? Dr. Green: There are several benefits of performing a FIT

Dr. Green: Since the implementation of FIT in 2019, we are seeing increased numbers of screening in our community. We are also getting a larger number of referrals for FIT positive cases, compared with the older stool screening test (FOBT). This is an indication that FIT is working well; patients are agreeing to be screened because it is a convenient and simple test to do. Furthermore, it shows us that the test is sensitive, and identifies patients who need to go forward with a colonoscopy. What would you say to someone to encourage them to get screened for colon cancer? Dr. Green: Globally, colon cancer is the third most common cancer. If detected early, approximately 90% of people are cured. Screening is a proven method for detecting cancer early. It is a simple test to do that may prove to be life saving. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. If you are between the ages of 50 and 74 years, you should be screened for colon cancer regularly. If you aren’t eligible for screening yet, you can still be an advocate for your family and friends. Talk to them about the importance of cancer screening and detecting cancer early. To get screened for colon cancer with a FIT kit, make an appointment with your primary care provider. If you don’t have a primary care provider, you can book an appointment on the Screen for Life Coach by calling 684-7777 or calling Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-828-9213. Find out more about cancer screening by visiting tbrhsc.net/cancerscreening.

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Lucy & Normand Members since 2017 2020-02-14 1:5495 PM The Walleye

ming

MarchEventsGuide March 1, 1–3 pm

Beaded Chain Necklace Workshop

March 3-31, 10 am–12 pm

Lettuce Walk

March 5, 11:30 am–1 pm

March 6–April 5

March 8, 7:30 pm

Airlane Hotel & Conference Centre

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

Victoriaville Centre

Create a beaded chain necklace with stone, crystal, and charm elements with Laura Paxton of Mossberry Moon, a well-known jeweller, artist, and photographer local to the Thunder Bay area.

Looking for a way to stay healthy and active during the winter? Come join the Northern Walkers as they make their way around Victoriaville Centre, a welcoming and safe place to walk, talk, and socialize, no matter the weather!

Leaders Luncheon: City Hall Edition

theag.ca

norwestchc.org

Come for lunch and an opportunity to hear from Mayor Bill Mauro, who will speak about priorities for the year ahead as well as update on some of the progress made by city council in the past year.

March 1, 2–4 pm

March 4–April 29, 2-4 pm

tbchamber.ca

Marina Park

Red Lion Smokehouse

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Winter FunDays: Sugar Shack Join Club culturel francophone de Thunder Bay for the popular Cabane à sucre (Sugar Shack)! This activity will take place in the green lawn area across from the skating rink.

thunderbay.ca/winterfundays

March 2–5, 9 am–9 pm

Lakehead University Research and Innovation Week Lakehead University

Research and Innovation Week is LU’s annual celebration of their research and innovation achievements in the city. The week will feature the theme Our Creative Mind.

lakeheadu.ca/research-andinnovation

March 3, 8:30 am–noon

Artificial Intelligence and Your Business Delta Hotel

This workshop aims to demystify AI and review the steps our two speakers have taken to successfully implement AI solutions in their businesses.

Connect with other new mums and dads at Red Lion Smokehouse. Join every Wednesday in the lounge. Bring your little one and hang out with other new parents. Nursing is welcomed and both washrooms include changing facilities.

facebook.com/redlionsmokehouse

March 4, 7-11 pm

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

Come out for a night of films, a vendor fair, symposium and free giveaways. Suitable for all anglers and fly fishing enthusiasts, conservationists, nature lovers, film buffs, and anyone suffering from winter fever.

northshoresteelhead.com

March 4, 11, 18

Weekly Wednesday Trivia Night with Chris Barstow The Foundry

March 3-9

thefoundrypub.com

Chips, shavings and sawdust: they’ll be on campus in abundance during this annual favourite: Wood Week 2020. Choose from a dozen courses, including returning favourites in bowl carving, spoon carving, Krympburkar: Scandanavian-Style Shrink Boxes, and figure carving.

Finlandia Hall

Come out and experience the magic, live at the Finlandia! Mackinley’s first show of the new decade is gonna be a mind-blowing night of illusion, magic, and mentalism.

facebook.com/mackinleyoliver

March 6 & 7, 7 pm

Beauties & Booties 3: International Fly ICONZ Fishing Film Tour 2020 Paramount Theatre

nwoinnovation.ca/ai

North House Folk School

March 4–7, 11–14

Four Weddings and an Elvis Cambrian Players Theatre

Daily Roaming

Take a virtual trip to sunny Vegas in early March when Four Weddings and an Elvis by Nancy Frick opens! See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info.

A high-energy dance tribute celebrating legends of the LGBTQ+ community.

tbshows.com/shows/beautiesbooties-3-iconz

March 6–8

For the Love of It Conference

Grand Marais Art Colony

Reframe your artistic passions while also gaining more in-depth, pragmatic skills to make your work sustainable. It will be a weekend filled with resources, tools, and opportunities to learn more about how to keep doing what you love!

grandmaraisartcolony.org

March 6–29

Lakehead University Honours Exhibition Thunder Bay Art Gallery

A showcase of the work of the graduating students from LU’s Fine Arts program. See this month’s Art section for more info.

theag.ca

thag.ca

March 7, 8 am–4 pm

This fun event features curling at Port Arthur Curling Club, on-site contests and prizes, a penny auction, and a complimentary buffet lunch.

facebook.com/SJFTB

March 7, 9 am–1 pm

43rd Annual Sleeping Giant Loppet

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park The Sleeping Giant Loppet is a mass participation ski festival that offers fun for the whole family and challenges for competitive athletes. See this month’s Top Five for more info.

sleepinggiantloppet.ca

March 7, 6–10 pm

Passport Around the World Valhalla Inn

VIMFF is an annual international 10-day community festival, featuring mountain film screenings, live multimedia presentations, photography exhibitions, workshops, seminars, and other events.

tbca.com/vancouver-mountainfilm-fest

March 8–28

La Francophonie dans tous ses États Baggage Building Art Centre

Celebrate Francophonie Month with this exhibition, featuring painting, photography, sculpture, and more. See this month’s City Scene section for more info.

facebook.com/ccftbay

March 9, 11:15 am–1 pm

AWS & Cloud Computing Beginners Workshop NWO Innovation Centre

This introductory session will give you a solid understanding of the basics of cloud computing and its importance for modern business.

nwoinnovation.ca/aws

Passport Around the World will be an evening of food, fun, prizes, silent auction and a few surprise activities, in support of the MS Society. See this month’s Food section for more info.

March 10 & 11, 9 am–2:30 pm

facebook.com/MSthunderbay

This two-day workshop will cover three of the most popular official AWS certifications: Cloud Practitioner, SysOps Administrator, and Developer.

March 8, 2–4 pm

Winter FunDays: Winter Science Stations Marina Park

Join Science North Thunder Bay for fun winter science themed stations! After you’ve enjoyed the activity outside, you can warm up with a creative activity inside Mariner’s Hall with the Community Arts and Heritage Education Project.

AWS Certification Workshop NWO Innovation Centre

nwoinnovation.ca/aws

March 11, 7–9 pm

Write-In Wednesday Seattle Coffee House

Once a month, Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop writers gather at a coffee shop with their writing materials and a desire to be productive on their own projects among other writers.

U.S. Bundles

thunderbay.ca/winterfundays

cambrianplayers.com

northhouse.org

Featuring selected artwork from all LU Fine Arts students. See this month’s Art section for more info.

St. Joseph’s Curl for Babies & Brews Care Funspiel March 6, 7–8:30 pm (New Parent Meet-Up) Experience The Magic Port Arthur Curling Club

Test your trivia knowledge Wednesday nights at the Foundry with Chris Barstow!

Wood Week

Vancouver Lakehead University Annual Student Juried International Mountain Film Festival Exhibition

The all-new

Roam Away DailyPass $ Away DailyPass 8

/day

nowwwriters.ca

M I N N E S O TA

WISCONSIN

Roa Roam Away Mo

tbaytel.net/roamaway TM

96 The Walleye 2

U.S. B

Rogers and the Mobius Design are trademarks of or used under license from Rogers Communication Inc. or an affiliate.

March 12–28

March 16–20

Magnus Theatre presents the play by Drew Hayden Taylor. See this month’s Film and Theatre section for more info!

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Cottagers and Indians Art Explorers March Break Art Camp Magnus Theatre

magnustheatre.com

March 13-15

Flavorful Rye Breads North House Folk School

Explore the many flavours of rye breads using seeds, spices, and fruit to make traditional breads. Practise techniques that will allow you to work with difficult dough.

northhouse.org

March 14, 7 pm–midnight

Shamrock Shakedown Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.

Shake your shamrock at this event in celebration of Irish culture while supporting Our Kids Count. See this month’s Top Five for more info!

Spend the week discovering art from world-renowned artists, painting, drawing, sculpting, and building with clay. Mornings for 5–7 year olds, afternoons for 8–11 year olds.

theag.ca

March 17, 7:30-9:30 pm

Masters of Illusion Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

This 21st century magic show is unlike anything you have seen before. Audiences will be held at the edge of their seats by the grand illusions, and laugh out loud at the comedy magic.

tbca.com/masters-of-illusion

March 19, 7:30–9 am

March 14–April 3

14 Annual Celebration Breakfast for the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Urban Abbey

A breakfast featuring special guest speaker Nav Bhatia. See this month’s City Scene section for more details!

sleepinggiantbrewing.ca

La Francophonie dans tous ses États Celebrate Francophonie Month with this exhibition, featuring painting, photography, sculpture, and more. See this month’s City Scene section for more info.

facebook.com/ccftbay

March 15, 7–9 pm

Celtic Illusion

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

Coming to Canada for the very first time, Celtic Illusion is the biggest dance and magical illusion sensation that has been taking audiences by storm. The show for all ages cleverly fuses awe-inspiring contemporary Irish Dance with mind-blowing magic and Grand Illusions.

tbca.com/celtic-illusion

Bundles March Break 2-Day

March 16–17, 8:30 am–4 pm

Kids Camp

Lappe Nordic Ski

Two days of fun, games, outside play, and skiing! The camp is suitable for elementary school-aged children, 7 to 13, who would be in Jackrabbit Level 2, 3, 4, or Track Attack.

lappenordic.ca

Victoria Inn

diversitythunderbay.ca

March 19, 7 pm

Thunder Bay Horticultural Society General Meeting

Oliver Road Community Centre Amy Halverson will be talking about raised garden beds. All are welcome. Membership is available.

tbayhortsociety.weebly.com

March 19, 7–9 pm

Ryan Joyce - World Class Illusionist

CLE Grounds Coliseum Building Ryan Joyce presents a unique show filled with tons of family-friendly laughter, magic, and mentalism, in support of The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada - Ontario Chapter.

benefitshow.net

March 20, 10:30–11:15 am

Mystery Craft Day Brodie Resource Library

Feeling crafty? Love surprises? Mystery craft day is for you! Grab a bag and use our supplies to create something fabulous. All ages, drop in!

March 21, 1:30–3:30 pm

Spring Into Life

Centennial Conservatory

The Friends of the Conservatory is hosting Spring Into Life. This is a free event and open to the public. There will be a children’s activity table, music and refreshments.

ActiveU March Break Camp Lakehead University

ActiveU is a program for children and youth that will explore recreational and educational programming. Activities throughout the week will include a variety of sports, swimming, and educational activities.

facebook.com/activeu.lu

tbpl.ca

March 20 & 21

The Hunt for Happy Tour with Trent McClellan Crickets Comedy Club

Originally from Corner Brook, NL, Trent McClellan is known for his approachable, candid, and effortless observational comedy, and his weekly role on CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes.

March 28, 8 am–4 pm

North House Folk School

Port Arthur Curling Club

Spring Break Camp - 29th Annual Bonspiel Handcraft Adventures for Literacy

March 21, 1:30–4:30 pm

Students will work with wood and fibres to assemble a unique set of utensils and other lunch-wares. By the end of the week, students will go home with a new set of skills, a set of tools to eat lunch with, and their very own hand-made lunch box.

Modo Yoga

March 23–27

friendstbconservatory.com

Kids Yoga and Art Join Vik and Art for an afternoon of art and yoga just for kids. Pack a snack!

modoyoga.com/thunder-bay

March 21, 7:30–10:30 pm

Snowed In Comedy Tour Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

Four international comedians come together to create one amazing show with each bringing a unique and hilarious take, providing something for everyone.

tbca.com/snowed-in-comedy-tour

March 21, 7:30–9:30 pm

Cambrian Improv Players

Cambrian Players Theatre

Ready for a night of affordable fun and laughter? If you’re a fan of the popular television show Whose Line Is it Anyway? then you’ll love the Cambrian Improv Players, a Thunder Bay-based improv group. It’s always fun and unpredictable.

facebook.com/ CambrianPlayersImprov

March 21–22

St. Urho’s Weekend Finlandia Hall

Come out to the Finlandia Hall for a fun weekend of performers, games, treats, murder mysteries, a parade, and a local vendor market to finish it all off.

thefinlandia.com

March 22, 12-4 pm

kraft Spring Market Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.

Beer, bites, and browsing. Shop from over 45 local artisans at the Sleeping Giant Brewing Company + Barrel House.

instagram.com/kraft_tbay

am Away MonthlyPass onthlyPass March 16–20, 9 am–4 pm

March 23–27

March 22, 2–6 pm

Habitat for Humanity Spaghetti Dinner Italian Cultural Centre

A spaghetti supper in support of Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay will be held at the Italian Cultural Centre. Tickets will be sold at The Restore. All tickets purchased from The Restore will go towards Habitat for Humanity.

habitattbay.com

northhouse.org

Spring Break Camp Grand Marais Art Colony

Students will learn about pop art and pop artists, as well as expand engineering skills. By the end of the week, students will have explored composition, color, and contrast to create multiple artworks, and also how to make simple circuits to make sculptures move.

grandmaraisartcolony.org

This fundraiser is open to non-curlers and the most seasoned curlers in Thunder Bay. The emphasis is fun over competition! Also enjoy delicious cuisine, music, prizes and more.

facebook.com/FCThunderBay

March 28, 11 am–1 pm

Introduction to Chinese Calligraphy Renaissance Building

This class, led by Dr. Yaoge Huang, will teach you the fundamentals of Chinese calligraphy, such as using your tools, brushstrokes, and drawing basic Chinese characters. Beginners are welcome!

facebook.com/ northernculturalartscollective

March 28, noon–4 pm

March 25, 5:15-6:15 pm

Crafternoon

Waverley Resource Library

The Neebing Recreation Committee will be hosting a series of Crafternoon sessions. Bring along a current project, such as knitting, scrapbooking, sketching, or any craft you’ve got.

Laughter Yoga

Laughter Yoga is a great way to relieve stress and have fun. No yoga experience needed. Laughter Yoga uses simulated laughter, deep breathing, and gentle stretches to teach you how to laugh for no reason.

laughteryogatbay.ca

March 25, 8–10:30 pm

Quiz Night

Red Lion Smokehouse

The last Wednesday of every month is quiz night at Red Lion Smokehouse, brought to you by Lake of the Woods Brewing Company. Teams of up to 6 players. $2 per person.

facebook.com/redlionsmokehouse

March 26–29

Ice Diving 2020

Thunder Country Diving

Ready to amaze your friends and family with your bravery? Ice diving is one of the most adventurous scuba specialties, with some of the most surreal scenery that few get to experience.

facebook.com/ ThunderCountryDiving

Blake Community Hall

facebook.com/Neebing

March 28, 2–4 pm

Polar Bear Plunge Marina Park

Bring on the 2020 PDR Contracting Polar Bear Plunge! Supporters and brave souls are taking the plunge in support of Special Olympics Thunder Bay, ALS, CNIB and Roots to Harvest.

thunderbaypolarbearplunge.ca

March 29, 2–4 pm

Harmony in Style Fashion Show

Current River Community Centre

Come for an afternoon of fashion, refreshments, draws, and entertainment from the Sounds of Superior Chorus.

soundsofsuperiorchorus.com

March 31–April 14, 10 am-12 pm

March 27–29

The Poet’s Writing Corner

Canada Games Complex

This three-part session will provide you with good chunks of time to write and practise your poetic craft in a small group.

Silver Fox Squash Cancer Charity Tourney

Grand Marais Art Colony

The Canada Games Complex is hosting the 26th Annual Silver Fox Squash Cancer Charity Tournament! The event will raise funds for both the Northern Cancer Fund, as well as the Underground Gym.

grandmaraisartcolony.org

thunderbaysquash.ca

EVENTS GUIDE KEY

General Art Food

Sports

Film/ Theatre

cricketscomedyclub.com

The Walleye Walleye

97 3

MarchMusicGuide March 1 All-Star Karaoke

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 3 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 2 Every Folk’n Monday The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 3 The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 4 Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

TBSO Pops 5: Jean ‘n Classics - Bohemian Queen

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $12–$53 • AA

Gypsy Moon

PA Legion Branch 5 8:30 pm • $10 • 19+

Half of a Century Bash Black Pirates Pub 9 pm • $5 • 19+

Long Haired Businessmen with Rubber Tire Peepshow + DJ Big D The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 8 Gord Ellis & Ashleigh Winchester Loch Lomond Lounge 2 pm • No Cover • AA

All-Star Karaoke

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 3 pm • No Cover • 19+

James Boraski Trio March 5 Jazzy Thursday Nights

Loch Lomond Ski Area 3 pm • No Cover • AA

All-Star Karaoke

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA

The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

PA Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Mic Comedy & Karaoke Itai Lounge 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Stage with Craig Smyth & Tiina Flank The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 6 James Boraski Solo

The Groggy Toad Coffee House 7 pm • $5 Advance • AA

Lockyer Boys

Loch Lomond Lounge 7 pm • No Cover • AA

Two Crows for Comfort w/ Mountain Mansion Algoma House 8 pm • $10 • AA

Friends of the Road The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 7 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+

Cory Hoogsteen

Loch Lomond Lounge 3:30 pm • No Cover • AA

Ariel Posen

Port Arthur Polish Hall 7 pm • $30 • AA

James Boraski & Momentary Evolution Cheer’s the Village Pub 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

4 The Walleye 98

Open Jam

March 9 Duelling Pianos with Jimmy & Craig The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 10 The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 11 Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 12 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

TBSO Masters 4: Outsiders Shostakovich 5 and Strings

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $12–$53 • AA

All-Star Karaoke

PA Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Mic Comedy & Karaoke Itail Lounge 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Stage with Craig Smyth & Tiina Flank The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 13 Duelling Pianos - Danny Johnson & Richard Tribe Loch Lomond Lounge 7 pm • No Cover • AA

Open Mic Comedy & Karaoke Itail Lounge 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Stage with Craig Smyth & Tiina Flank

Music for the Gym

The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

March 20 All-Star Karaoke

Oliver Road Community Centre 7 pm • $10 • AA Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $45–$60 • AA

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 3 pm • No Cover • 19+

Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $5 • 19+

Loch Lomond Lounge 7 pm • No Cover • AA

The Cover Show XXV Encore The Handsome Grandsons Greenbank w/ DJ Big D The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 14 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Shortstops

Loch Lomond Lounge 3 pm • No Cover • AA

The Pintsmasher ft The Bay Street Bastards + Hunt & Gather The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 15 Clay Breiland

Loch Lomond Lounge 2 pm • No Cover • AA

All-Star Karaoke

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 3 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Jam

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA

March 17 Greenbank

Loch Lomond Lounge 2:30 pm • No Cover • AA

The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 18 Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 19 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

All-Star Karaoke

PA Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Back Forty

The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 21 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+

Long Haired Businessmen Loch Lomond Lounge 3 pm • No Cover • AA

DJ Big D

The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 22 Clay Breiland

Loch Lomond Lounge 2 pm • No Cover • AA

Open Jam

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 8 pm • Free • AA

March 23 Every Folk’n Monday The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

Glorious Sons

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium 7:30 pm • $49–$175 • AA

March 24 The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 25 Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar Shooter’s Tavern 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 26 Jazzy Thursday Nights The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

All-Star Karaoke

PA Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • 19+

Open Stage with Craig Smyth & Tiina Flank The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 27 Blood Red Moon

Loch Lomond Lounge 7 pm • No Cover • AA

TBSO Northern Lights 4: Noondaagotoon - Night One Italian Cultural Centre 7:30 pm • $12-$45 • AA

Amy Winehouse & No Doubt Tribute The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 28 Folk’n Saturday Afternoons The Foundry 1 pm • No Cover • 19+

Blood Red Moon

Loch Lomond Lounge 3 pm • No Cover • AA

Blues Blast 2020 Polish Hall 3:30pm • $50 • 19+

TBSO Northern Lights 4: Noondaagotoon - Night Two Italian Cultural Centre 7:30 pm • $12–$45 • AA

Here’s the Thing: The Birthday Roast of Lady Fantasia LaPremiere Black Pirates Pub 10 pm • $10 • 19+

Undercover w/ DJ Big D The Foundry 10 pm • $5 • 19+

March 29 The Selfies

Loch Lomond Lounge 2:30 pm • No Cover • AA

All-Star Karaoke

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 3 pm • No Cover • 19+

TBSO Family 3: I Am Not Afraid - Peter and the Wolf Grassroots Church 3:30 pm • $9–$18 • AA

Open Jam

Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 8 pm • No Cover • AA

March 30 Every Folk’n Monday The Foundry 7 pm • No Cover • 19+

March 31 The Best Karaoke In TBay The Foundry 10 pm • No Cover • 19+ Brought to you by:

Open Mic Comedy & Karaoke Itail Lounge 8:30 pm • No Cover • 19+

For more info visit tbshows.com

LU RADIO’S MONTHLY TOP March Show Spotlight

Top 20 1

Andy Shauf* The Neon Skyline Arts & Crafts

Wolf Parade* Thin Mind Royal Mountain

Woolworm* Awe Mint

Past Tense Hosted by Ari Boon Mondays from 8 – 9 pm

Destroyer* Have We Met Merge

Past Tense so far has mostly been a scattered mix of slow, noisy, and/or math-y rock from the 90s forward; some of my favourite tracks that I’ve played so far are from the Newfound Interest in Connecticut, the Brave Little Abacus, and Rockets Red Glare. Running the show has given me the impetus to root through some of my favourite albums again, and to dig a bit deeper into old discographies and catalogues. Sometimes I’ll make themed episodes, two so far being emotive hardcore- or slowcore-only playlists. Every Monday from 8–9 pm I get the opportunity to play out my mood on air, and I’m having a really good time doing it, which I hope any listeners can pick up on. Apart from doing Past Tense I make it out to see bands downtown, and I try not to flunk out at Lakehead.

Bombay Bicycle Club Everything Else Has Gone Wrong Arts & Crafts

Song of the moment: “The Jitters” The Dismemberment Plan Emergency & I

TR/ST* The Destroyer - 2 Grouch/House Arrest

Brandon Wolfe Scott* Burden On Your Shoulders Dine Alone Local Talent* Higienópolis Self-Released

CILU 102.7fm’s Monthly Charts for this issue reflect airplay for the month ending February 11, 2020. Check out our weekly charts online at luradio.ca and tune in to the Top 20 Countdown, Mondays from 7 - 9 am. Keep it locked on 102.7fm - online streaming at luradio.ca

Ted Quinlan* Absolutely Dreaming Self-Released

Andy Ballantyne* Play On Words G-B

16 Cate Le Bon & Bradford Cox Myths 004 Mexican Summer

Leslie Pintchik Same Day Delivery Pintch Hard

17 Corridor* Junior Bonsound

Chelsea McBride Socialist Night School* Aftermath Self-Released

14 Half Moon Run* A Blemish in the Great Light Crystal Math 15 nêhiyawak* nipiy Arts & Crafts

18 Ukkon3n* Comfort for the Contemporary 673917 Records DK 19 Natalie MacMaster* Sketches Self-Released

Hip Hop 1

Atmosphere Whenever Rhymesayers

Cartel Madras* Age of the Goonda Royal Mountain

Anthony Rinaldi* The Infinite Sky Self-Released

Anti-Flag 20/20 Vision Spinefarm

WHOOP-Szo* Warrior Down You’ve Changed

Alaclair Ensemble* AMERICA vol. 2 7ième Ciel

Electronic

Brown Family* Brown Baby Gone 7ième Ciel

Woolworm* Awe Mint

Sandveiss* Saboteur Sexy Sloth

Sunn O))) Pyroclasts Southern Lord

TR/ST* The Destroyer - 2 Grouch/House Arrest

International 1

Chelsea Stewart* Chelsea Stewart Self-Released

Geoff Berner* Grand Hotel Cosmopolis Coax

Luke Lalonde* The Perpetual Optimist Paper Bag

O’Haara* Lore / Big High A Person Disguised As People

Orchid Ensemble* From A Dream Self-Released

Delhi 2 Dublin* We Got This Inside Pocket/Warner

Willem James Cowan* Stay A Little Longer Self-Released

Sefi Zisling Expanse Tru Thoughts

William Prince* Reliever Six Shooter

Emily Triggs* Middletown Self-Released

Brandon Wolfe Scott* Burden On Your Shoulders Dine Alone

10 The Soul Motivators* Do The Damn Thing Do Right!

11 Luke Lalonde* The Perpetual Optimist Paper Bag

nêhiyawak* nipiy Arts & Crafts

12 WHOOP-Szo* Warrior Down You’ve Changed

RIIT* Ataataga Six Shooter

Jazz

Test Card* Music For The Towers Sound in Silence

13 Sleepy Gonzales* mellowtrauma Light Organ

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Green

Back to Basics

The Case for Cooking at Home By Julia Prinselaar, Program Coordinator, EcoSuperior Environmental Programs

nder the guidance of local chef Nikos Mantis, a student from the Lakehead Adult Education Centre carefully carves the thighs, legs, and breast meat from a whole chicken. While home butchery may be a practice from a bygone era, the exercise is part of a series of cooking classes aimed at reversing that trend. In an age where fast food is at every turn and delivery apps make it easy to skip the dishes, the reality is that convenience comes with a cost—to our wallets, our personal well-being, and the natural environment. By placing food skills in the hands of people, students in the Cooking for Cred program can learn to prepare more diverse meals at home, become savvy spenders at the supermarket, and bring the community aspect back into eating, says Kim McGibbon, Roots to Harvest’s food and kitchen director, who works in partnership with Lakehead Public Schools to deliver the course. “Most of us don’t know how to take a basic skill like [butchery] and turn it into money savings,” says McGibbon. She explains that after comparing the price of a whole chicken to its individually packaged parts at a grocery store, the student was amazed by the difference. In addition to that, says McGibbon, “It’s a lot about the relationships. The whole idea of cooking together is a lot more fun than just cooking on our own.” Where and how our food is prepared can have a major impact on our wallets as well. Research

Children and partners gather for the launch of the Thunder Bay and Area School Food Inventory Report launch at Kingsway Park Public School by Forbes Magazine in 2018 found that on average, it can be almost five times more expensive to have a meal delivered to our door than it is to cook it at home (note delivery fees were accounted for but transportation, time, and energy spent shopping or cooking were not). Despite the stats, younger North Americans appear to be more comfortable paying the premium for convenience. Today in Canada, third-party food delivery apps are growing in popularity—Abacus Data reports that in 2019, six in ten millennials used such an app to order a meal in the past month. “Millennials are more likely to be either eating out or ordering in than older Canadians,” David Coletto, co-founder and CEO of Abacus Data, told CTV News. “They are spending more.” And what about all the containers, bags, napkins, and utensils that come with an average takeout meal? According to Plastic Oceans International, over 300 million tonnes of plastic is produced annually, and roughly half of that is for single-use purposes. About 90% of

plastic isn’t recycled, and up to 13 million tonnes has already made its way to our oceans, according to researchers at the University of California. Those statistics are difficult to imagine, if not sobering. The key lies in examining our values and how we manage our time throughout the day. We can ask ourselves whether we need to buy a product with so much plastic, research the options available, and determine the ones within our reach. Bear in mind not everyone has the privilege and ease to make alternative choices overnight, or at all. Michael Pollan, author of Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation, does argue, however, that reclaiming food skills is one of the more accessible pathways to shift our reliance away from corporations that are eager to do the food work for us—something he calls a “learned helplessness,” whereby we outsource nearly every culinary task apart from the heating and eating of food. “For what is the environmental crisis if not a crisis of the way we live?” he asks. “Cooking, I found,

gives us the opportunity, so rare in modern life, to work directly in our own support, and in the support of the people we feed.” Preparing meals can be a fulfilling expression of creativity, gratitude and care for friends and families. It also offers opportunities to connect us with our culture, history, local farmers, and other creatures who call this planet home. Note: Some local food establishments are making great strides to help consumers avoid single-use packaging, and we think that’s fabulous. Watch for more of these initiatives in partnership with EcoSuperior coming soon.

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TheWall

The Importance of Libraries

Community Hubs Provide Safe Spaces to Seek Truth and Grow Community Story by Nancy Saunders, Photo by Raili Zgrych

hunder Bay has been profiled in national news stories several times in recent years. These stories have focused on various aspects of our city’s rates of racism and violent crime. Amidst these frightful and sobering tales of discrimination, corruption, gangs, and drugs, was a hopeful piece that appeared in The Globe and Mail in June 2019, in which Thunder Bay’s library service was praised as being “a leader among civic bodies in healing a racial divide.” The current strategic plan for

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our local libraries speaks of a vision to “become the heart of the community—a welcoming and inclusive centre of social innovation and change.” This may come as a surprise, as not mentioned are the many resources we typically associate with libraries: books and reference materials, both print and electronic; DVDs and CDs; public computers; printing and faxing; programs, activities and events; and the list goes on. Our city’s libraries are engaged in a timely shift to becoming community hubs,

where “multiple services are located together, creating a one-stop shop for people in the community to access the resources and services they need.” In addition to offering free materials for education and enjoyment and a variety of programming for various user groups, libraries provide meeting spaces, internet access, job search and entrepreneurial assistance, life-changing—maybe even life-saving—services to vulnerable patrons, and a safe refuge and shelter to all, and all under one roof. We live in a time during which we are inundated with sensationalized news from the moment we wake up to when we go to bed. The terms “fake news” and “click bait” have grown freakish legs largely due to social media, and can be applied to almost anything. Now is not the time to underestimate the importance of libraries as institutions of truth. Through the provision of educational and historical

resources, we have at our disposal a comprehensive repository of facts, as well as access to librarians whose very careers are based on championing and guiding us in our quest. A fundamental purpose of libraries is to support literacy of all kinds—reading, numeracy, media literacy, emotional intelligence, and cultural competence. These functions will never stop being relevant to the development of healthy communities. There is no question that all Thunder Bay residents should have access to safe spaces and social programs that enhance their quality of life. The ongoing transformation of libraries through greater innovation and accessibility is helping to meet these needs. Rather than creating silos to serve various groups separately, libraries serve as a bridge between diverging populations. A sure way to enhance and grow community is to provide a safe space in which we are all welcome.

“My school teaches me

to think for myself” You belong here The Walleye 103

Horoscopes By Sunny Disposish

Aries

Cancer

Libra

Capricorn

Your spirituality has been strong all year, Ram, but this month even more so. This is a good time for spiritual practices, meditation, and reading. It’s a period for supernatural experiences and for enhanced ESP. Your personal appearance shines this month—abundant energy is the best healthy product in the world! Fun and leisure opportunities will come to you, and you should take them. Kids and kids at heart seem more devoted to you, and your inner circle is enjoying all the baking you are doing. Keep it up!

The family is supporting your career now that you are back at it full-force. Time away is nice, but you’re feeling more productive these days. It’s okay to say no to a more intense workload. Give yourself time to adjust. Celebrate International Women’s Day with your favourite lady friends at a spot of their choosing. It might not be your first choice, but go with it— you'll be glad you did. Sign up for a new class or course.

In spite of your lowered energy levels, many nice things are happening. Jupiter is travelling all month with Pluto, your financial planet, so the weeks ahead are prosperous—very prosperous. Money can come from family support or business connections. The sun in your seventh house shows that being involved with groups or group activities can lead to forming new friendships, too. It’s time to “spring back” soon, so make sure you set your clock properly. Your lucky day is the 13th, when exciting news awaits!

Taurus Saturn crosses the mid-heavens on the 23rd and enters your 10th house of career. The transit means good things for your job and it indicates business-related travel. The demands of your career are strong and you must succeed by sheer merit—but you will succeed. Saturn is usually a challenging planet, but in your chart he is more benevolent. Your dream life seems very active this month, especially on the 8th and 9th. Pay attention to your dreams as they have important information for you.

Travel is favorable for you Lions right now. If you’re not traveling at the moment, you are just getting back—and then making plans to hit the road again. It’s not that you're particularly restless, it’s just that exciting opportunities are coming to you without you seeking them out. Make the most of these fun times— it’s always good to have something to look forward to. The spring equinox finds you doing a bit of spring cleaning, particularly if you’ve just moved into a new place. You’re glued to your chair lately at work. Listen to your Fitbit and get those steps in!

Quit talking about travelling, Cap, and book the dang trip! Whether it be March Break madness or a quick getaway in Vegas, you’ll be a better Goat for it. Your home life is extraordinarily busy these days, with people coming and going at all hours. Might be time to set some boundaries for yourself, or at least get some extra hands to pitch in with chores. At month’s end, you’ll find yourself on a surprise outing. Make the most of it! Finances look great—good thing you're in the office lottery pool, because it just might hit the jackpot! More good news: a recent thorn in your side shows signs of waning.

Gemini

Virgo

Your love life is very interesting and happy this month. Jupiter, your love planet, travels with Pluto all month, indicating advanced romantic activity. It shows that your magnetism is your primary asset in love. It also shows a connection with health professionals and people involved in your health. Passion runs high, both positively and negatively. Do some spring cleaning during the full moon and you could uncover an unexpected treasure! An upcoming job interview could prove promising.

You are still in a yearly love and social peak until the 20th and personal popularity is very strong. The problem in love is mostly you. You’re not sure. You lack direction. You back away from love. This will change after the 10th as your social confidence peaks and your thinking is clarified. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt and realize great things are not learned or built overnight. Have patience with yourself. The full moon on the 9th has you confiding in an old friend. Give yourself time to meditate. A walk with a trusted colleague helps you to feel better.

104 The Walleye

Leo

Scorpio Your focus is on other people rather than yourself right now. People at work are looking to you for advice. You are feeling a little discouraged when other staffers get to travel and you have to stay behind and hold down the fort. Book an impromptu weekend away and you'll soon be feeling better. Try not to neglect your appearance. Get spruced up at the local salon or spa. It’s all about self-care! The new moon on the 24th sees an upswing to your creativity...or perhaps it's just a pleasant side effect of all the coffee from St Paul’s Roastery!

Aquarius

Sagittarius

Pisces

Now that Leap Beer is over, it’s time to get fired up for St. Paddy’s Day! Press your best green shirt and ensure you and the gang hit up the pubs mid-month. Spring has sprung, and it’s time for you Archers to shake off those silly winter blahs and focus on the lightheartedness of spring. Sure, there might be plenty more winter left in these parts, but a little bit of positive thinking never hurt anybody.

Your current partner, spouse, or lover is very devoted to you right now. Mercury is retrograding right now, and your spirits are high because, for the majority of you, it’s your birthday month! Celebrate your special day in style, especially if it’s a milestone. Most typical Pisces love artistic pursuits and anything that has an element of mystery, fantasy, and imagination. Make it a day, weekend, or even a whole month of celebration! And a couple of green beers never hurt anybody either. Prepare to be pampered. Happy birthday, Fishes!

Your personal independence is very strong this month, but beginning to lessen slightly. Continue to exercise personal initiative and to take responsibility for your happiness. Make the changes that need to be made. This is a good time for renovations and other house-related projects. You’ll find a sense of satisfaction starting to work on those niggling items that have been bothering you around the homestead. And it’s not too early to be thinking about the garden, is it?

TheBeat

My Idea of Lake Superior By Joan M. Baril I think of the fisherman reeling his net, The lighthouse children playing on their patch of rock. Pierre puts down his paddle and lights his pipe. He loves the bush and the lake and he’s proud of his stumpy body, all five foot five, which can carry a hundred pounds without breaking a sweat. Then the chanteur begins again. The miners sail into the bay. The prisoners of war stand on the barge, eyeing the forbidding shore. The old woman builds a sweat lodge. The kayakers sweep along together, looking for the campsite. The fishers in the small boat decide to try a five of diamonds. The loggers get the boom made up for the tug. The commercial fisherman looks at his first lamprey, The mushroom picker and the birdwatcher wave. The researchers unspool their long mist nets. Lawren Harris mixes his colours. The long boat cleaves the darkening swells. The cook’s helper smokes another joint. The woman with her binoculars checks for peregrine falcons The tourists wave to the kids selling blueberries at the station. The Frontier College school slips up the siding. The ice racers gun their engines. The tug worries away the spring. The ice breaker cleaves the channel and the laker captain is awarded the top hat, again.

Hunt/Gather, digital illustration, boy Roland

radiant . “don’t stop the adventure” - Damien Gilbert

/epicapictures

/thedmanproject

Photo by Chad Kirvan

Your feelings, your look.

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Benjamin Dakota Rogers Live at the Port Arthur Polish Hall

Kay Lee

TheEye

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