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Playing until he can't play anymore Tim Edwards Northern News Services Published Wednesday, July 25, 2012
"He's proud of himself," said Charlie's spouse, Lorna Panigoniak, translating for Charlie from their home in Rankin Inlet. Charlie, 66, said he started playing music in 1967, inspired by country singers like Johnny Cash. Since then, Charlie has recorded two 45s and two LPs. Looking back, he said his favourite item he produced was the song My Father's Country. He has also forayed into broadcasting with both the Inuit Broadcasting Corporation and CBC, making his first TV appearance in the late 1970s. Speaker Hunter Tootoo made the announcement of Charlie's induction into the Order of Nunavut at a June 5 session of the legislative assembly. The official ceremony is slated for this fall. "The order is the highest honour of Nunavut and takes precedence over all other orders, decorations or medals conferred by the Government of Nunavut," said Tootoo. The Order of Nunavut was established in 2010 to recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to the cultural, social or economic wellbeing of Nunavut. Past inductees include Rev. Michael Gardener, as well as Jose Kusugak and Mark Kalluak, who were both given the distinction posthumously. Tootoo said Charlie and fellow inductee Kenojuak Ashevak are "ambassadors for our territory and its people" whose contributions to art and culture are internationally renowned. "Mr. Panigoniak is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and broadcaster," said Tootoo. "He has performed at numerous festivals and events in Canada and abroad." Charlie is performing "part time" at the moment, he says, due to Parkinson's affecting the left side of his body and in turn his guitar playing - but instead of letting that take him away from music, he's put down the strings and picked up the keyboard. Speaking through Lorna, he said he will continue to play "until he can no longer play."
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