Accordingly, it is important to be prepared to defend yourself if necessary using any and all means possible. The following article  epresents the best advice able to be given at this time in consideration of our knowledge of the Sasquatch’s temperament and physical capabilities.

Avoiding a Confrontation

Sasquatch are active both day and night, and can be found anywhere in the forests (or back alleys) of Northwestern Ontario. If  you must travel in the bush, be alert at all times. Try not to startle any unsuspecting Sasquatch that you may come across as  this may cause it to attack. Further, if you do come across a Sasquatch, avoid all direct eye contact with the creature as it may  take that as a challenge – you do not want to challenge a Sasquatch.

Lastly, if forced to retreat from a Sasquatch, do not run as this may elicit a chase response and it is very unlikely that you can outrun a Sasquatch. However, if in a group of people when encountering a Sasquatch, these words from my father, wellknown Sasquatch enthusiast Michael Douglas, are valid – you only have to run faster than the last person.

If you are unable to avoid a confrontation with a Sasquatch, try reasoning with it at first. If it appears likely that it is  negotiating from a position of extreme aggression, the following may be helpful.

Basic Defense against Sasquatch Attack

The Sasquatch is big, but likely not as quick as us smaller, comparatively skinnier humans. Accordingly, use this to your advantage! Sasquatch are well-known for telegraphing their punches, so focus your attention on the shoulders of the Sasquatch to determine where the attack is coming from.

If the Sasquatch throws a right jab, step back and slightly to your left while at the same time pivoting your body so that you are turned to face your right. At the same time bring up your left hand to “slap” the  Sasquatch’s forearm away from your centerline and harmlessly away from you.  At this time you may counterattack with your left arm, or continue to negotiate for your life.

Secret Ninja Diversion Technique to Thwart a
Sasquatch Attack

Just as Sasquatch use the forest to hide their presence from humans, and thereby intent to attack if necessary, so too can humans use secret ninja diversion techniques to accomplish the same  purpose – some times a good defence is a strong offence. When encountering a Sasquatch, create a diversion so as to disrupt its attention from you to another potential target.

When the Sasquatch’s attention is thusly disrupted, use your longest weapon, in this instance likely your leg, to attack the Sasquatch so that it will be immobilized for as long as possible. Once so immobilized, make good your escape from the Sasquatch as fast and as far as possible because at some point it is getting back up and will be angry, not only from the pain recently received but also from the ribbing that will surely ensue from fellow Sasquatch for being fooled by such a lame maneuver.

Fair Play

While this brief article has outlined some basic techniques to utilize in defence against a Sasquatch attack (a full length book will be forthcoming), it must be remembered that humans and Sasquatch really do not need to fight to understand each other. Sometimes if after negotiations, where both parties have expressed their feelings and actively listened to the other, an understanding can be reached that mutually benefits both parties. Where that is the case, it is best to sit back, tell some fishing stories and enjoy the fine Northwestern Ontario weather.

Window vinyl needs the most attention on your top. We’ve all seen the “burnt” marks or the brittle orange spots that mark out plastic. Those spots can be caused by the sun’s  effects on dirt, pollen and improper cleaning agents or if the vinyl is resting on the  frame. I recommend Klear to Sea for regular cleaning and to prevent the marks from  happening. For small scratches try the Novus Plastic Polish system. Unfortunately, if  the damage is excessive, your only hope of looking through a clean window is vinyl  window replacement. To care for your windows, rolling them is the key. Windows can’t  be folded or balled up and expected to last for long in those conditions. When you do  roll your windows, don’t leave them in the sun as the heat will fuse the rolled layers together.

The roof above your head, be it vinyl or acrylic canvas needs dry conditions to prevent mildew buildup. Sunbrella (a leading  acrylic canvas) recommends a home recipe for cleaning as well as a 303 fabric cleaner.

To clean stubborn stains & mild mildew

1. Eight ounces (one cup) of chlorine bleach.
2. Two ounces (1/4 cup) of mild soapand/or detergent.
3. One gallon of water.
4. Clean with soft bristle brush.
5. Allow mixture to soak into the fabric for up to 15 minutes.
6. Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
7. Air dry.
8. Repeat if necessary.

Waterproofing is always necessary after any full cleaning. Sunbrella recommends 303 Fabric Guard.

Boat upholstery is bombarded with sunscreen, insects, battery acid and fish mess. Auto cleaners don’t always work for boats,  check your cleaners for traces of silicone. Silicone + Sun = Deteriation. 303 Upholstery Cleaner and 303 Protectant do a great  job for marine cleaning and maintenance.

When the season is over and it’s time to put your boat away, here are some storage tips for your top. Keep your boat as dry as  possible to prevent mildew (an open container with kitty litter works) give your windows a good clean and store the rolled  plastic in a place where nothing will be put on top of it. I’ve even heard of a gentleman installing a few snaps in the boathouse  and hanging his vinyl windows flat on the walls. Your canvas should be bone dry or laid it out until it dries. Never leave a boat top on the boat in winter where it receives a snow load, as the framework is not built to hold that much weight.

So there you have it. Boat Covers 101. May the sun/wind/rain/mosquitoes be on the right side of the top and enjoyable boating to you.

– Laura Moore, Image One

It all began in 1986 when the closure of Eaton’s store sparked an opportunity for Doug Dufresne to start a new business venture. Recognizing that Kenora was in need of a quality furniture retailer, he and his wife Eva purchased a 5,000 square foot complex. The store officially opened in 1986, and as it grew, so did the involvement from fellow business savvy members of the Dufresne family tree. Doug remains President of the company with Eva as Secretary Treasurer, while their sons Mark, Michael, and Shaun, took on roles as CEO, Director of Stores, and Director of Purchasing. From 1993 to 2009, the business reached national success with 11 locations spanning all the  way from Brandon to Ottawa (ultimately employing more than 400 people).

Dufresne Furniture’s success as a winning corporate endeavor is attributed to the hard work of the Dufresne family; a value that has been recognized with a number of prestigious awards. In 2005 it won the Canadian Home Furnishings Retailer of the Year Award. Even during some of the most competitive market conditions, the business went on to be awarded Canada’s highest accolade for business performance as one of Canada’s 50 Best  Managed Companies for twelve consecutive years. This success would eventually gain them membership in the Platinum Club which recognizes the exceptional standards, leadership, and business practices of outstanding companies.

The Dufresne family attributes their success entirely to the loyalty and support of their customers, acknowledging that their business would not be where it is today without the strong communities that encouraged them.  This is why Dufresne Furniture continuously strives to create A Better Experience for each and every customer; a passion that resulted in the creation of a 17,000 square foot modern store on Railway Street in Kenora,  allowing them to serve their loyal customers more effectively. It is their strong belief that customers and staff are to be treated as members and close friends of the Dufresne family. Dufresne Furniture’s down-to-earth focus on business  has allowed them to maintain loyal customers throughout all of their locations. As part of their culture, all of their employees must bring forth energy, trustworthiness, maintain a focus on customers, and be respectful towards all individuals.

At the opening of Kenora’s new modernized Dufresne store in 2003, Doug Dufresne said, “We had our start here in Kenora and we want to give back to the community.” It is with this mission that Dufresne Furniture grew  towards their next goal and reached out to those in the community who are in need. Crediting their success to the loyalty of their customers, and enriched by their community experiences, Dufresne Furniture has played a pivotal role in the community through the creation of the Dufresne Foundation, consisting of a committee of volunteers in pursuit of giving back. By doing so, they have reliably and consistently supported organizations  such as: Habitat for Humanity, Lake of the Woods District Hospital, Children’s Hospital Book Market, and United Way; all which aim to enhance the lives of children, families, and local communities.

If the first 25 years are any indication you can bet the Dufresne family team won’t be resting on their laurels… maybe on a posturepedic mattress though.

Story by Chantel Pereira.

There are exactly two ways to find out what the local residents enjoy doing around here, one is to sit down at a local coffee shop for a few hours and listen to the chatter… the other is to continue reading.

10. Take a Hike

If you’re looking for a scenic hike you’ll want to visit one of the many trail systems Kenora has to offer. Check out the Kenora Urban Trails Association Trail Map for urban trails circling the city, Mink Bay Trails, Mount Evergreen Trails and Rabbit Lake Trails.  Don’t forget Rushing River Provincial Park, Vernon Nature Trails and Tunnel Island! The list goes on…

09. Live music all summer long

Kenora has some great options for live music all summer long. On the harbourfront, check out the Beach Boys on June 15th, the Harbourfront Concert Series every Thursday night, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra June 30th, and our legendary Harbourfest on August Long Weekend. This year’s line up features Kenny Shields and Streeheart, Doc Walker and Sloan amongst many other great acts.

08. Go Skiing

If you’re looking for some winter excitement, strap on a snowboard or a pair of planks and hit the slopes. Kenora’s Mount Evergreen Ski Area is a great way to spend the day (or the weekend), with 8 different downhill runs, 2  tbars and over 50km of groomed X-County ski trails, the ski area offers a great family atmosphere. Check out www.skikenora.com for up-to-date conditions and ski reports.

07. Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard

There’s nothing better than paddling along a shoreline at sunset in a sea kayak, canoe or even a paddleboard! There are thousands of lakes and streams in the area to explore. Strap one on the SUV and get out there! Rentals are available from the Hardwear Company (807) 468-1226 and Boardanyone (807) 468-3211. Paddle on!

06. Go fishing for the day

One thing we love around here is getting out on the lake to go fishing, and since you’re in the area, we invite you to do the same. There are many different guide services that will take you out for the day (summer or winter) to catch your limit and maybe even cook you a shore lunch. A few good ones to call are Smith Camps (807) 548-5764, Ash Rapids Camp (807) 543-4025, or Blue Heron Lake Tours (807) 466-7752.

05. Tour Around

There are many types of tours for you to take and explore in Kenora! The Lake of the Woods Cemetery offers historical tours every Friday in the summer (807)467-2067. The Lake of the Woods Museum is worth a look -  there are many interesting exhibits to check out (807) 467-2105. Self-guided tours, including the mural walk, around town are also a great way to spend a day walking around downtown. If you’re looking to hit the water,  see number two “Get out on the Lake!” below.

04. Visit the Farmers’ Market

Vendors from around the region gather every Wednesday all summer long for the Kenora Farmers’ Market. If you’re looking for locally grown produce, home-baked goods, or unique arts and crafts, the market is worth checking out. Every Wednesday beginning July 6th on the harbourfront.

03. Shop our Unique Boutiques

If you are looking for the perfect gift, then you must visit our many unique boutiques and shops. The “Must See” Blue Heron in Kenora’s old fish market is located on the lake. Also check out Fragile Glass Studio, Abundance, Urban Shag, Keric Funk, Brennan’s and Wind & Water. Find great clothing at Boardanyone, Nancy’s on the Lake, Chip & Pepper, the Hardwear Company, Weekend Adventure and Sure Thing. You’re sure to find something special!

02. Get out on the Lake!

If you haven’t been on the lake yet, you are missing out on the most spectacular attraction in the Area. For a lunch or dinner cruise, the M.S. Kenora takes you on a relaxing 1.5hr or 2.5 hr tour of Lake of the Woods (807)  468-9124. For the more adventurous call Blue Heron Lake Tours (807) 466-7752, Ash Rapids Camp (807) 543-4025, Smith Camps (807) 548-5764 or Crow Rock (807) 543-4001.

01. Hang at the Beach

Kenora has five fantastic public beaches within city limits to waste away a hot summer day – so pack your cooler, the sunscreen and a towel and plunge into a day at the lake. Check out the maps on pages 28 & 29 for beach locations. Shuttle service to Coney Island is available on Kenora’s Harbourfront.

On October 27 it was announced that welterweight Bongfeldt had signed with the UFC, he was to step in on short notice to fight Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Rafael Natal at UFC 124.  Jesse was to finally realize his dream of fighting at the pinnacle of a sport he remembers being a fan of since it first aired in 1993, and at 31 years of age it was not a moment too soon.

“It was a relief to finally make it to the big show; it had been a lifelong goal of mine. After fighting on every card in the country and being part of the grass roots movement of mixed martial arts in Canada, it was gratifying to know my hard work had paid off. Leading up to the fight, it’s a blend of emotions – excitement, fear, animosity, peace. It’s a balance of emotions that needs to be controlled, and released in the fight.”

The bout lasted the full scheduled three rounds and the decision was left in the hands of the judges who scored the fight as a draw. A decision that after two very close rounds and then a Bongfeldt dominated third left many Ktowners believing that Jesse had done enough to earn the victory. When asked whether he thought the draw was a fair result he responded, “No, I defeated him.”

Despite not earning the win on that occasion, he did enough to convince the UFC of his talent and was scheduled to fight the winner of The Ultimate Fighter season 11 Court Mcgee at UFC 131 on June 11 in Vancouver. McGee,   however, was forced to withdraw from the contest due to injury and is being replaced by highly rated prospect Chris Weidman, a change that leaves Bongfeldt unfazed.

“It hasn’t affected my preparations for the fight too much at all. They are both wrestlers and they both have the same strategy, to  take me to the ground and finish the fight there.” Jesse lives in Kenora full time and is grateful to his hometown for the lifelong support and the contribution to his success.

“Kenora is a fight town and it’s always supported the martial arts and MMA movement. My friends and fellow martial arts practitioners were always exploring new avenues in which to train. Going to the local bars didn’t hurt either. It’s always an honour to have people from Kenora at my fights and we always meet up afterwards to celebrate. Having to leave Kenora and seek out a qualified organization was hard. Now I’ve been able to bring that home for the next generation of athletes at United Fighter gym.”

With a background in several martial arts such as Jeet Kune, Karate, Aikido and Muay Thai, the surge in interest in MMA could not have come at a more perfect time for Jesse and growing up watching his idol Fedor Emelianenko fed his hunger to achieve.

“Martial arts was something I had already been training in. It seemed a good sport in which to test my skills. Watching UFC developed my interest in the grappling aspect of the martial arts. I really liked watching Fedor  Emelianenko, I admire his string of victories.”

Fedor’s string of 27 victories, although interrupted by a no contest is an amazing achievement and now that Jesse has his chance in the big time the sky really is the limit for a man who doesn’t shy away from hard work. He has already held many titles in his career so far such as the CMMAC Light Heavyweight amateur title, CMMAC Welterweight Title, TKO welterweight championship (x2), RITC professional welterweight title, RITC  Middleweight title, all of which make for an impressive resume so far. Since moving back to Kenora in 2007 he has started his own branch of the United Fighter Mixed Martial Arts Academy with Chris Harper where he trains every day in cardio, wrestling, boxing and strength.

Of course, that is putting it in layman’s terms, he encourages anyone who wants to see exactly what it takes to come to the gym and find out. It is located in the Hing block below the old Sunbeam pool hall, on the corner of First and Matheson Street. Even a man with such a rigorous training regime still finds time to relax on beautiful Lake of the Woods.

“In my spare time I like to hang out with my son and my family, recover from my workouts, eat, catch a movie, read and play my guitar. When it comes to the lake though, I just love to swim. Last summer I ripped a couple of sea-doo out to Scotty’s Island; it was so much fun.”

So whether you see Jesse out training, or you decide to take him up on his offer to check out the gym or you even just see him spending time relaxing on the lake, be sure to offer your support to one of Kenora’s own – making us all proud.

Close your eyes. Whether you are in a boat, at camp or walking one of our fine trails, you will have a symphony on command. At day’s end, perch on the dock and listen to the mosquitoes hum while loons interject their  throaty refrain into the frogs’ evening serenade. Hear the songbirds’  morning reveille, or the mystical sound of a hummingbird whir by your ear as you doze on your deck chair.

Lake of the Woods offers spectacular summer light shows, too. Look up on any clear night and see shooting stars blaze through the dancing Northern Lights. Our summer storms flash across the sky, twisting massive trees and wringing out the lake. A hike on the Canadian Shield puts you front row at one of the best art exhibits you will ever see. Each vista is a gorgeous canvas  waiting to be painted or recorded on camera.  Don’t forget theatre. It is definitely in our nature! Watch drama-queen squirrels launch pinecones and trill like opera divas, bossy beavers staking out territory with tail-slaps, or eagles performing their aerial acrobatics.

These natural concerts and exhibits run all summer, and they are free. But if you want a real night out on the town this summer, Kenora’s arts community offers you some prime acts. Here is just a small taste of the offerings.

Music + Lake = Magic

June 30, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra plays under the direction of Alexander Micklethwaite in the Harbourfront tent. Len Mark, concert organizer, says VIP seating is available at reserved tables ($50/person or $800 table plus dessert).  He also says this event is open to everyone who can make a donation. “We will sell special seating in the few rows of regular seats at $25 each. The rest of the seating in the tent will be free. However, we will pass the buckets expecting to receive donations.”

Saturday, July 2, it’s time to “Celebrate Summer”. This day highlights aboriginal musical talent and culture all day on the Harbourfront. Come explore the arts and crafts market and enjoy free family activities. Aboriginal  People’s Choice  Music Award winners Digging Roots and Northwestern Ontario’s Shy-Anne Hovorka will be performing in the evening under the tent, along with local aboriginal performers. Admission is free. Celebrate  Summer events will conclude with a fireworks display in Keewatin.

These Boots Aren’t Made for Walking

One would think Imelda Marcos has taken up digs with Fragile Glass owner, Kris Goold, or that perhaps Grimm’s famed Shoemaker never did wake up, and the elves kept making shoes– really, really unique ones: rug-hooked boots, glass slippers, clay shoes, shoe mobiles. There are shoes everywhere!

Lake of the Woods Arts Collective visual artists and guest artists from away have created many amazing three-dimensional pieces of art for Shoephoria: the art and sole of footwear, Fragile Glass at the Belfry’s summer exhibit and sale. The show runs until August 31, and is open Monday to Saturday 10-5.

There’s a lovely philanthropic twist to the show, called “Let Someone Else Walk a Mile in Your Shoes”. Folks visiting Shoephoria can get into the exhibit by donating a new or gently-used pair of shoes or a toonie. Ms. Goold has connected with a nongovernmental organization in Africa who will distribute them to those in need.

A nice addition to this exhibit (especially because it is in a converted century old  church) is the Lake of the Woods Museum’s special collection of local historical footwear, which will be displayed with the art in the gallery. Fragile Glass is located 2 blocks south of the Kenora Recreation Centre, at 529 Third Ave. South.

A Good Case of History Repeating Itself

TryLight Theatre Company is bringing drama to the streets this summer. Gord Day-Janz, director of the troupe, says they are excited to partner with the Lake of the Woods Museum and the Common Ground Research  Forum to write and re-enact history for their new summer creation called “The Living History Project”. Trylight Theatre will offer a variety of vignettes, including one from the First Nations perspective. The troupe will  perform at the museum and at other locations around Kenora. They are working with local writer, Phil Burke, to create historical walks through the downtown core of Kenora during July and August. The Living History Project takes place from June 27 to August 27.

No Maybe, Baby

The musical folks out on Coney have struck a chord so true, that common opinion says it’s time to lose the “Maybe” in their name, “The Coney Island Third Maybe Annual Festival”. Past years have seen all donations to this charity event go to Lake of the Woods Arts Collective (LOWAC), to help fund their Music and Mentorship Programme for Youth, and to support Visual Arts.

Festival co-creator, Ferg Devins, says headliners this July 24 will be Bill and Deb Wallace, Dean Wysocki and Darcy Ura performing the “Best of the Guess Who”, Winnipegger, Glen McCabe, local folk up-and- comer, Ryan  Van Bellegham, and Kenora’s Big Boogaloo. Also rocking the new sound stage is the local Celtic band, Mac, and country swing band, Cold Hard Facts of Life.

A LOWAC outdoor exhibit called “2×2 for U” is also in its third year, and will be showing its last day at the Coney Island Music Fest (and around city parks from June 25 till July 23). Last year, more than 50 pieces of  outdoor, weather-proof art sized two feet square were sold to support local arts and artists. Check out lowac.ca to see this energetic group’s Open Studio Tour map (July 17 weekend) and other summer offerings.

For those who cannot just listen and tap toes…

A group called “The Dinner Jackets” will be hosting an outdoor musical jam session at the BBQ shelter at Anicinabe Park each Wednesday from 7 until 9–rain or shine. Band member, Jerry Ossachuk, says the 9 pm end will  give them just enough time to head over to the Cornerstone Pub, Main St., to get in on the Wednesday jams happening there. Everyone is welcome.

Kenora arts and culture. We serve it up fresh and natural, any way you want it. Enjoy!