ISSUE 24 2009/03/19 VOLUME 63

Comic books and children's lit: Socially relevant for all Does our government unfairly censor comics coming across the Canada/U.S. border? features  page 10 Why grown-ups love Harry Potter and Twilight arts & culture  page 15 Why you're not a geek if you still read comics comments  page 8 02 The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca

Not on our campus: The possible reasons are It's a tough job, but Cover Image Student group limitless, but the results are some cold weather "Breathe" considers going promising... People actually athletes manage to by Tyler Funk alcohol-free care about campus politics find hills in the prairies www.flickr.com/photos/tylerfunk Check out more of his work in "The sports & fitness  Exchange Community Building campus news  page 5 campus news  page 6 page 23 Opening" art show, Mar. 26.

News UNITER STAFF

Managing Editor Stacy Cardigan Smith » [email protected] New regulations for organic foods Business Manager

K James D. Patterson [email protected]

e » l Some farmers may with the Organic Food Council of se Manitoba. Cli y PRODUCTION MANAGER

“But it will also lend legitimacy ff Melody Morrissette » [email protected] opt out of producing o rd to their practice,” Fine said. “I’m Copy and style editor organic products very excited about the process.” Ashley Holmes » [email protected] Organic food sales have in- due to red tape creased dramatically in recent years. Photo Editor Statistics Canada revealed the sale Mark Reimer » [email protected] of certified organic food grew 28 News assignment editor Dan Huyghebaert per cent from 2005 to 2006. Toban Dyck » [email protected] Beat reporter The number of certified organic farms shot up by 60 per cent over News production editor Ksenia Prints » [email protected] the same time as well. Some farmers may stop growing As a result, the Canadian Food Arts and culture editor organic food this summer because Inspection Agency (CFIA) will re- Aaron Epp » [email protected] of stricter upcoming national reg- lease Organic Products Regulations Comments Editor ulations. Others will have to fork on June 30 in an effort to protect Devin Morrow » [email protected] out more money to adapt to the consumers from deceptive labeling changes. practices. Sports & fitness editor “The regulations will turn off Larry McIntosh, president and Jo Villaverde » [email protected] some people who really are organic CEO of Peak of the Market, a Listings co-ordinator because of the cost and the paper- grower-owned vegetable supplier in Curran Faris » [email protected] work,” said Julie Fine, co-ordinator Manitoba, wasn’t satisfied with the of Growing Up Organic, a program original draft of the regulations. Beat reporter Dan Huyghebaert » [email protected] “The draft said that if you grew organic, you couldn’t do anything Certified organic Beat reporter Joe Kornelsen [email protected] What does “organic” else,” McIntosh said, adding many farms in Canada » of Peak of the Market’s growers do 2001 – 2,230 Beat reporter even mean? both by ensuring a good separation Sandy Klowak [email protected] 2006 – 3,555 » The term “organic” has been thrown between their soil and sheds. Peak of the Market got into For an increase of 60% Beat reporter around a lot, but in a certification Andrew McMonagle » [email protected] sense, it means that no fertilizers or selling organic products five years Source: Statistics Canada pesticides were used in storing or ago, starting with potatoes and on- producing the food. ions. They are looking to expand to squashes as more land becomes CONTRIBUTORS: This eliminates methods such as available. Julie Fine of Growing Up Organic (pictured here with daughter, Olive) believes the new animal growth regulators, colouring program will help legitimate organic farming. Kelsey Clifford, Chris Friesen, McIntosh doesn’t think the cer- Brooke Dmytriw, Craig Heinrich, or artificial additives, which many tification will make any difference, conventional farms use to help in Cindy Titus, Alex Garcia, Clayton as Peak of the Market’s food is cer- Organic Office (COO), a CFIA tained by the Technical Committee Winter, Laura Kunzelman, Ethan pest control and the production of tified through a program in the branch established six years ago. on Organic Agriculture of the Cabel, Andrew Tod, James Culleton, their products. United States. This means the federal standard Canadian General Standards J. Williamez, Jeannine Desroches, Natural pesticides and composted “It’s just a different label and and regulation will only be avail- Board, composed of sixty organic Marina Koslock, Timothy Penner, manure are allowed, but come with a different auditing procedure,” able to those farmers who wish to operators and stakeholders. John Herbert Cunningham, Megan some restrictions. Antibiotics are McIntosh said, adding they’ll have sell their products outside of their Until this year, the process has Turnbull, Courtney Schwegel, used in extreme cases where it can- to redo their packaging, which can own province. been voluntary. Crystal Laderas, Brandon not be avoided and must get autho- Bertram, Cory Falvo, Ryan Janz, cost upwards of tens of thousands Beyond this, Staykova said each “Some farmers may find there Noni Brynjolson, Jonathan Dyck, rization by the certifying agency. of dollars. province would be responsible for will be too many restrictions,” said Samuel Swanson, Matt Prepost, These regulations apply to farm ani- All former certification stan- the certification and regulations Sabrina Longobardi, co-owner Jess Chapman, Scott Christiansen, mals as well, including giving them dards will remain valid under the within its borders. of EatIt.ca, an organic food store Kevin Chaves, Sagan Morrow, Emily 100 per cent organic feed, and rais- new system. Fine wonders why the Canadian that also has an online component. Christie, Marko Bilandzjla. ing them in a humane way. Farmers need to apply for the government couldn’t regulate all of “Some may say there isn’t enough.” new national program to have their Canada. Manitoba’s own standards Longobardi said provinces The soil also must be free from The Uniter is the official student newspaper of the products certified organic. would mirror the national guide- might have to grow things differ- University of Winnipeg and is published by Mouseland pesticides, and may include a transi- “The regulations are only for lines, she said, and combining it ently because of the kind of soil Press Inc. Mouseland Press Inc. is a membership tional period that can take up to five based organization in which students and community interprovincial and international under one umbrella could then and weather. years, during which the foods can members are invited to participate. For more business,” said Valeriya Staykova, save red tape. “But people will have more ac- information on how to become a member go to www. be labeled “transitional organic.” uniter.ca, or call the office at 786-9790. The Uniter lead auditor for the Canada Currently, standards are main- cess to organic food,” she said. is a member of the Canadian University Press and Campus Plus Media Services. SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES, LETTERS, GRAPHICS AND PHOTOS ARE WELCOME. Articles must be submitted in text (.rtf) or Microsoft Word (.doc) format to editor@ uniter.ca, or the relevant section editor. Deadline by sandy klowak for submissions is 6:00 p.m. Thursday, one week before publication. Deadline for advertisements is Q: Do you eat organic food? Why or why not? noon Friday, six days prior to publication. The Uniter reserves the right to refuse to print submitted material. The Uniter will not print submissions that are homophobic, misogynistic, racist, or libellous. We also reserve the right to edit for length and/or style. Zane Zimmerman, Ashley Lazar Anna Amarante Second year student, science First year student, psychology First year student, science CONTACT US » I definitely eat it. It's supposed I do not. I'd be inter- No. I like fatty foods, I like General Inquiries: 204.786.9790 to be better for you. Organics ested because obviously with protein. I don't eat vegetables. Advertising: 204.786.9790 Editors: 204.786.9497 should mean no chemical global warming and even the Fax: 204.783.7080 boosting stuff, that sort of jazz. economy and the state that E-mail: [email protected] it's in … if we supported local Web: www.uniter.ca farmers who produce things, that would help. LOCATION » Room ORM14 University of Winnipeg Aida Gregorio Donnie Didychuk Alex Paterson 515 Portage Avenue Orange Julius and Extra Foods Plumber and gas fitter Masters student, aboriginal Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2E9 employee I eat all kinds of food. I'm not governance Of course I eat organic food. I fussy. I'd eat it if it was in my home Sometimes, when it's not exorbi- think they are safer than non- town. Our one grocery store is tantly expensive, which it usually organic, in terms of chemicals. closed right now... You can't buy is. I'm cynical of all food even if Mouseland Press Board of Directors: nothing out of the corner store. I it's organic because the organic David EisBrenner (chair), Mary Agnes Welch, label – there's no standard for it, imagine that people further north Rob Nay, Nick Tanchuk, Brian Gagnon, Devin than me have got it worse. but I'm wishfully thinking that it's better than non-organic food. King, Meg McGimpsey, Ben Zorn, Kelly Ross (UWSA), Scott Nosaty For inquiries e-mail: [email protected] Ne w s As s i g n m e n t Ed i t o r : To b an Dy c k E-m a i l : Ne w s @u n i t e r .c a News 03 Ph o n e : 786-9497 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter Fa x : 783-7080 International The move from the West News Briefs

C Compiled by Brooke Dmytriw West End resident, said the options Reykdal believes people are hr i Businesses are F s

in the neighbourhood were to slim largely deterred from coming and r i leaving the West to spend time shopping in it. He shopping in the West End because esen Trying to quit? Have would like see more diversity in the the neighbourhood has, in his an e-cigarette End in droves; will neighbourhood. opinion, a justified reputation for WASHINGTON: The American Food “There could be more coffee crime. and Drug Administration (FDA) is trying it get any better? shops and a broader variety shops, But there are managers who to fight the spread of the world’s first not just pawn shops and discount enjoy operating in the West End. electronic cigarette across the United Joe Kornelsen outlets,” he said. Ken Kaldurlyk manages the Open States. Beat reporter Because he commutes through Door Press on Agnes Street. The e-cig, touted as the world’s first downtown, Page said he usually “This neighbourhood is like any healthy cigarette, runs on batteries does his shopping downtown. other,” he said, but he added that and contains pure liquid nicotine. Its In the last two months, a Bargain! Barry Reykdal manages the JS the Open Door Press doesn’t oper- distributor, Smoking Everywhere, says it Shop and a Budget Rent A Car Furniture and More store on Ellice ate in the same way as retailers. is similar to the nicotine patch but allows outlet have left the West End – and Avenue. He believes that businesses “We don’t do a lot of walk in reformers the oral fixation smoking they are not the first ones. in the neighbourhood are suffering business,” he said, pointing out provides. “We are always aware when busi- because the people in the city have that these companies may be nesses leave,” said Gloria Cardwell- a bad perception of the place. impacted more by the specific The FDA views e-cigs as an unapproved Hoeppner, executive director of the “I’ve been working here for 11 neighbourhood. Ken Kaldurlyk, manager of Open Door new drug due to the lack of scientific West End BIZ. years and I have never seen a worse Cardwell-Hoeppner said that de- Press in the West End, doesn't have a research on its safety or effectiveness. It With Canadian Tire’s move to neighbourhood,” Reykdal said. spite the businesses that are leaving, problem operating a business in the is trying to stop their import into the U.S., St. James two years ago and the re- He said his particular business there are 15 businesses scheduled to neighbourhood. but isn’t seizing the products already cent closing of the Bargain! Shop suffers because the neighbourhood move into the neighbourhood in sold online and in 100 kiosks across the on Sargent Avenue, there is now doesn’t have the population that the next six months. country. no store in the neighbourhood that purchases their products. The BIZ hopes to attract more make a change in the community. According to CNN, e-cigs are already sells general household goods. people to the West End by promot- “You can talk till you’re blue in gaining popularity in Switzerland, “That is definitely a concern,” “I’ve been working ing it as an “international village,” the face, it’s not going to change Sweden, Brazil and the UK. said Cardwell-Hoeppner, noting here for 11 years she said, meaning that both Ellice the atmosphere here,” he said. that it limited options for local resi- and Sargent Avenues are to have Cardwell-Hoeppner remains Shanty shops dents and university students. businesses that reflect the ethnic optimistic about the West End’s and I have never destroyed for Pope “We would like the neighbour- diversity of the community. future. hood to be walkable,” she said. seen a worse Reykdal is unconvinced that “We want people to be clamor- YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon: In an attempt Attracting the customers may be neighbourhood.” community groups like the ing to get into this neighbourhood. to clean up the city for Pope Benedict’s arrival this past week, Yaounde security one of the main struggles for neigh- –Barry Reykdal, West End BIZ or the Spence We want the West End to be a place bourhood businesses. Yves Page, a Neighbourhood Association can to set up shop,” she said. forces tore down street stalls and chased JS Furniture and More away hawkers in the capital’s markets. One woman arrived at her shop one morning last week to find it torn down, a pile of corrugated tin and wood planks, reported Reuters. Witnesses also alleged gendarmes chased and beat up youth Provincial government stalls on park designation and stallholders across the markets. Thousands of people make a living Ten years is too "We thought He said land claim issues involv- selling wares and services through ing the park with surrounding First informal street stalls and boutiques in long, say park we should try Nations have already been resolved. Yaoundé. advocates to protect it Peguis First Nation has given Fisher Mar. 16 was Pope Benedict’s first visit not only for our River their support in principle, to Africa since becoming pontiff. Crate said. After Cameroon, he will travel to Sandy Klowak people but for all According to Bentham, the de- Angola to celebrate 500 years of Beat reporter partment is bogged down by the Christian evangelism in that country. Manitobans." number of designated protected Fisher River chief David Crate. – David Crate, areas on its plate, including Chitek The government is taking too long Fisher River Cree Nation Lake and Poplar/Nanowin Rivers, In tough economic times, to give one Manitoba area provin- which are currently under park re- drug lords make Forbes’ cial park status, say community serve status, expiring this fall. billionaires list members and activists. initiative for the past four years For Crate, this timeline is Bentham said this expiration MEXICO CITY: The fame of Sinaloa drug On Tuesday, Feb. 10, represen- through a letter-writing lobbying unacceptable. date makes these areas a priority. leader Joaquin Guzman Loera will spread tatives and supporters of Fisher campaign. “They've had a long period of “The conservation department beyond Mexican and American police River Cree Nation met at the “The government has been stall- time. Consultation should have is extremely under-resourced,” forces after Forbes magazine included Manitoba Legislative Building to ing,” said Ron Thiessen, CPAWS happened already,” Crate said. Thiessen said, citing another reason him in their ranking of “self-made” present the 10,000th letter of sup- Manitoba's executive director. for the delay. billionaires this year. port in their 10-year plight to es- Based on talks with some gov- “That's hardly an excuse,” said Ranked among the likes of software tablish Ochiwasahow (Fisher Bay) ernment workers, Thiessen said the Forest facts Liberal Party of Manitoba leader mogul Bill Gates and investor Warren Provincial Park. file is currently inactive. Info on the current Fisher Bay Park Jon Gerrard, a Fisher River sup- Buffet, Loera came out 701st on the list Located just two hours north However, Barry Bentham, direc- Reserve: porter who was present on Tuesday. for his approximated $1 billion fortune. of Winnipeg, the area is currently tor of the parks and natural areas “It's inexcusable not to have the Loera heads the Sinaloa Mexican drug protected as a park reserve, a tem- branch of the provincial govern- Location: Lake Winnipeg's staff to do the job.” porary five-year status that was al- ment, says that's not the case and southwest basin. “It's all about priorities,” Gerrard cartel and his career has spanned North, South and Central America; he is the ready renewed once. plans for the area are underway. Size: 160,000 hectares, four said. “The progress is nowhere near The current term expires in “Our next step is to engage some times the size of Winnipeg. what it should have been.” main source for cocaine in the United States, reported CNN. October 2010. of the stakeholders,” he said. Wildlife: Moose, fox, bears, When status is granted, Fisher “Basically we're telling the prov- Discussions with mining and River hopes to use the land for ec- Mexican authorities are unhappy eagles, several types of song- about Loera’s unexpected recognition, ince it's time now to make a deci- logging companies, as well as sur- birds and more. otourism initiatives, such as a per- sion for permanent protection,” rounding communities, are set to manent tipi camp at which tourists stating criminals should not be ranked Fisher River chief David Crate begin soon; a public consultation Landscape: Sandy beaches, can stay to enjoy the area. with the likes of accomplished and moral said. “We've received overwhelm- process will follow next winter. tree-covered shorelines, islands, Such a camp has been im- entrepreneurs like Gates and Buffet. ing support.” And while the 10,000 letters of reefs and old-growth forest plemented in the past but had cover. “We thought we should try to support gathered by CPAWS will to be taken down as it lacked 450-year old painting stolen Characteristics: The area protect it not only for our peo- be considered, third party infor- funds to continue under current and recovered in van is part of Canada's boreal for- ple but for all Manitobans,” Crate mation cannot replace the govern- circumstances. OSLO, Norway: A Renaissance painting said. “We want to ensure that that's ment's own public consultation est, which is the largest source Thiessen remains optimistic stolen from a church in Larvik was going to be here for today and for process, Bentham said. of freshwater and the largest about the project. our future.” “We have to find some middle land-based carbon storehouse in “We believe if the will is there recovered last week, with a 50-year old Canadian Parks and Wilderness ground with protection being our the world. from the province... then they'll put suspect apprehended for its theft. The painting, Suffer the Little Children Society (CPAWS) Manitoba has ultimate goal and representation Source: CPAWS Manitoba their resources in place,” he said. been supporting Fisher River's being our ultimate goal.” to Come Unto Me, by artist Lucas Cranach the Elder, dates back to 1540 and has hung in the church since 1677. CBC News reported the painting was located in a van a few days after it went missing on Sunday, Mar. 8. Forensic experts are currently Wanna dictate the news? Write for The Uniter. inspecting the painting for damage and E-mail [email protected]. authenticity. 04 The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca Local Campus News News Briefs Compiled by Craig Heinrich

Living in the shadow of a giant U of W’s very own Batman A group of south Tuxedo residents mark is calling on city council to give them

Local professor re more time to consider the implications i of building a large-scale Ikea complex in aims to stop killer mer their neighbourhood. The multi-million dollar contract could bat disease around give the city a much-needed boom in tough times, but residents worry that North America traffic could become a serious concern in the area. Ken Klassen, a spokesperson for the Dan Huyghebaert residents’ group, told CBC News that Beat reporter city council should take some time and allow everyone to digest exactly what consequences the development could A mysterious disease killing hun- have. dreds of thousands of bats in the United States has attracted the at- But is it a sport? tention of Craig Willis, assistant bi- Winnipeggers may lose their chance to ology professor at the University of witness one form of orchestrated public Winnipeg. And now Willis has at- violence if a member of the Winnipeg Convention Centre’s board gets his way. tracted international attention. City Councillor Grant Nordman White Nose Syndrome (WNS), questioned whether mixed martial arts first discovered in 2007 near should be allowed to be practiced and Albany, New York, involves a white exhibited in Winnipeg. fungus that grows on the skin of Nordman told CBC News that he the face and wings of bats during doesn’t consider mixed martial arts hibernation. to be a sport and suggested the city “The bats don’t seem to mount should ban it, at least in publicly owned any immune response,” Willis said. facilities. U of W's Craig Willis invented a bat box (pictured here) to keep bats from freezing due to a deadly fungus depleting their fat reserves. The debate follows a month after Willis thinks the bats come out Dean Lewis was hospitalized with a of hibernation more often in order concussion and bleeding on the brain to warm up from the fungus, caus- “It’s the only after participating in a fight. ing a depletion of their fat reserves. rates of an average 85 per cent in “Because of our transmission The issue should be decided by As a result, bats die of starvation place in the world most caves. system, if we are impacting the for- April, when the city’s protection and outside their caves in an effort to Willis hopes to have the project est land we have to try to address community service committee, chaired locate food. to test this idea.” going in the next couple of weeks that,” said Brian Carruthers, en- by Nordman, receives a public service Willis and his research partner, –Craig Willis, University of before the winter is over. vironmental education specialist report on the activity. graduate student Justin Boyles of Winnipeg biology department Mathematical simulations of the with Manitoba Hydro. Indiana State University, estimate project show bats’ mortality rate “I think it (Hydro) recognizes Reservation leadership that 600 tons of insects, including can drop to eight per cent. that they (bats) are ecologically enters uncertainty mosquitoes, are no longer getting equipped with temperature con- Mary Timonin, a post doctorate important animals,” Willis said, A court order has partially returned eaten. trol and a heating coil, in which the fellow in Willis’ Winnipeg-based adding little is known about bat power to the chief of Cross Lake First Not ones to take things qui- bats are supposed to hibernate. lab, looks after the technical and behaviour during the summer. Nation after a judge issued orders that would force a mutinying band council to etly, Willis and Boyles thought of The sites will be placed in sev- practical side of the project. Willis said they don’t know how recognize the chief’s authority, reported a prototype artificial heat source eral caves near Grand Rapids, She said the testing will also in- WNS is transmitted, saying that the Winnipeg Free Press. to help the bats warm up during Manitoba, for testing. clude unheated boxes. scientists in the U.S. are research- The leadership of chief Alex James hibernation. “It’s the only place in the world “We need to see if they use any ing this aspect of the disease. Robertson is still up in the air, however, Now, the United States Fish and to test this idea,” Willis said, re- of the boxes, heated or unheated,” “Circumstances point to an in- due to a standing order from the Wildlife Service provided the pair ferring to the fact sites have been she said. fectious disease,” Willis said. reserve’s women’s council. with a US$28,000 grant to test if removed from all U.S. locations To track the bats, the team tagged He believes tracking migration The women’s council demands the bats will use an artificial ther- where bats aren't healthy. them with microchips, thanks to patterns between winter and sum- Robertson be removed from office due mal site. The fungus, which has yet to a $29,000 grant from Manitoba mer would help show how WNS is to criminal charges laid against him last November. The thermal sites consist of reach Canada, is now spread across Hydro’s Forest Enhancement spread. The charges were dropped in early big, insulated cereal-type boxes seven states, leading to mortality program. March, but as the women’s order still hasn’t been fully heard it remains standing.

No neighbour to turn to A young immigrant family is being On humans as animals evicted from their home after numerous c i complaints made by a downstairs nd people’s actions. Two speakers bring y neighbour regarding noise levels t i

tus In an interview following the lec- reached the attention of the building’s in refreshing ture, Daly said there was a lot to be rental agency. said for collaboration between psy- According to the Winnipeg Free Press, the Kachan family moved to Winnipeg mix of biology chologists and biologists, but that it hoping to find peace and comfort after was only in its early stages. fleeing from Russia and then Israel, and and psychology Most psychologists initially are now looking again for a home. tend to suspect biologists of being Globe General Agencies also fired the to Darwinism deterministic. building’s resident manager of six years, “It is a joke to think the human Mel Bennett, after he stepped in to try to Joe Kornelsen animal is a special creature,” Daly mediate the problem. Beat reporter said. In an e-mail to the Free Press, Globe Jim Clark is a psychology profes- wrote that they are working on a sor at the U of W who has worked solution to accommodate everyone — but the Kachans denied hearing of this. Future wives, beware: He really will in the biopsychology department. always prefer his mother over you. He felt the lecture still tended to This was the claim of two scientists give away the presenters’ psychol- Reserves not receiving at a recent University of Winnipeg ogy training. a fair share Biology professor Scott Forbes brought psychologists Martin Daly and Margo Wilson to Manitoba’s aboriginal child welfare lecture. “The speakers are not working at services could soon look a lot different The biology department at the the U of W for their unique perspective on Darwinism. a molecular level, they are working — if Ottawa forks over $21 million for the U of W hosted a lecture by two at a behavioural level,” he said. plan. psychologists from McMaster Overall, Clark said he appre- Plans for federal-provincial programs University as part of its annual packed auditorium. to help out a relative than a friend. ciated the speakers and said that for child welfare services on reserves Elizabeth Laird lecture series. Their findings showed that peo- U of W biology professor Scott students could certainly use the have been in the making for years, Because the biology depart- ple preferred their more immedi- Forbes recommended the depart- information to better understand reported the Winnipeg Free Press. ment is currently celebrating the ate relatives over other relationships ment bring in Daly and Wilson their own relationships with their The federal government is responsible 200th birthday of Charles Darwin, – a direct result of evolution, they due to their unique combination of families and their friends. for funding the much-needed programs, but provincial officials are concerned this year’s lecture focused on how argued. psychology and Darwinism. But he said the introduction of the government may not provide all the evolution has affected human The speakers compared fight- “A Darwinian view on kinship new technology is constantly open- funds needed. relationships. ing ground squirrels to human re- hasn’t made its way into the social ing up new ways of studying the Critics say that there is a huge Using a number of recent stud- lationships, saying that although sciences yet,” he said. mind. discrepancy between funding given to ies, Martin Daly and Margo Wilson people claimed to feel closer to Forbes noted genetics research “There is a lot of interest right off-reserve programs and those that discussed the relationship between friends than to relatives, they were should particularly appeal to psy- now because we can put people in are on reserves – a ratio of $1 provincial kinship and evolution in front of a much more willing to give money chologists because genes can affect an MRI machine,” he said. dollar to 78 federal cents. Campus News 05 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter

Alcohol ban considered by student group Campus Decision promotes sand "[Alcohol] isn't part of our traditional News Briefs y k lo Compiled by Alex Garcia health and wak ways and we want to be a positive role traditional values, model for our members.” Blood drive a continuous –Tabetha Linklater, ASC source of debate say Aboriginal University of Winnipeg students once positive role model for our mem- has officially been a dry reserve again gathered to protest the Canadian Student Council Blood Services’ (CBS) campus blood bers,” she said. since the 1970s. drive for their ban on blood donations members “I think we just want to go to- “They should be commended from gay men. wards a more cultural traditional because it's a step toward some- Jonathan Niemczak, LGBT* student way of what we've been taught.” thing better,” he said. director for the University of Winnipeg Sandy Klowak Aboriginal Students' Association “Alcohol serves no purpose in Students’ Association, organized Beat reporter members at large will have a chance my traditional life. It's a social ac- the protest at Klinic Student Health to vote on the Council's decision at tivity for the rest of society. It's not Services. the October AGM in the form of a part of being native,” Bruce said Niemczak told the Winnipeg Free Press The University of Winnipeg's referendum question. He feels alcohol should be the protest wasn’t meant to discourage people from donating blood, but only Aboriginal Student Council (ASC) ASC female representative Tabetha Spillett and Linklater do not banned everywhere, much like sought to educate them of the ban. recently took the first step in an Linklater supports the motion to ban foresee much opposition and smoking has been. CBS won’t accept blood or organ effort to ban all alcohol-related alcohol from the group's events. they hope this change will be ap- “It's a question of health and donations from men who have had sex events supported by their group. proved and written into the ASC safety.” with men even once after 1977, women Tasha Spillett, the council's cul- constitution. While alcohol is banned from who had sex with men with a history of ture and sport representative, pro- The motion is “an acknowledg- While third year education stu- the Poplar River community, there homosexuality, injection-drug users and posed a motion to ban the ASC's ment of the effect that alcohol has dent and association member Nikki are issues with bootlegged alcohol others who are considered to be at high year-end social and as well as a ref- had on our communities,” Spillett (who did not wish to use her real being smuggled in. risk for HIV-AIDS. erendum question banning alco- said. name) supports the decision, she's Though Poplar River spends sig- hol at all group-sponsored events. She hopes the decision will pro- not as confident it will be passed at nificant financial resources polic- Feds planning for the future, It will be voted on at the group's mote a focus on health and well- the AGM. ing the smuggled substances, Bruce cutting out humanities Annual General Meeting (AGM) ness by redirecting funds to support “I think it could go either way,” still feels the ban is worthwhile if The New Democratic Party of Canada in October. family and cultural events such as she said. it prevents even one car accident, is protesting the federal government’s The ASC is an elected body rep- out of town powwows. But while some students may incident of child abuse or family attempt at privileging students taking business-related degrees over those resenting the U of W's Aboriginal “We got elected into positions of enjoy taking a load off with a drink, break up. studying traditional social sciences. Students' Association. leadership and it's our responsibil- the ASC doesn't have to support it, “Social disorder is usually Niki Ashton, the NDP’s post-secondary Spillett said the motion was an ity to uphold those things,” Spillett she said. brought about by alcohol,” he said. education critic, is objecting to a line attempt to distance the council said. “We're here to learn, we're not Poplar River’s decision was made in the Jan. 27 budget which stipulated from the violence that often ac- Tabetha Linklater, the council's here to drink. We can drink off based on the holistic aboriginal all scholarships granted by the Social companies alcohol consumption. female representative, said the de- campus.” worldview. Sciences and Humanities Research The decision comes in the wake of cision is in tune with traditional Ernest C. Bruce, political ad- “They took into consideration Council (SSHRC) will focus on business- ASC member Trisha Jones' death teachings. visor and liaison for Poplar River the safety and well-being of the related degrees. at the hands of a drunk driver in “It (alcohol) isn't part of our tra- First Nation in Manitoba, supports community as a whole,” Bruce A petition against the government January. ditional ways and we want to be a the ASC's decision. Poplar River said. decision on Ashton’s constituency website has reached over 17,000 signatures.

Examining our waste A higher opinion on higher learning In an effort to ensure the federal U of W is ahead of In 2007 the U of W started plac- government is legislating effective ing composting bins on campus for policies on higher education, a Winnipeg the composting this purpose. member of parliament recently cobbled Some universities have programs together a new post-secondary caucus. game, but students that deal with kitchen and food The group will work with post- services waste, but only the U of W secondary administrators, student are slow to respond deals with it after it reaches a plate, groups and other members of Parliament according to Irwin. to ensure government policies on the Andrew McMonagle “I’m really happy we’re dealing matter reflect a broader perspective, Conservative member of Parliament Beat reporter with organics,” Dykman said. “It’s Rod Bruinooge (Winnipeg South) told the second largest waste stream we University Affairs. have.” The caucus will be open to any

Last week, several students and paid c Paper is the first, she said. members of Parliament who represent a l a y

employees spent their days sifting t The organic material is compos- riding with a post-secondary institution. o n The caucus had its first meeting on through banana peels, crumpled w ted at the Rockwood Institution, a i paper and used tea bags for the nter minimum-security prison adjacent Feb. 4. University of Winnipeg's annual to Stony Mountain Penitentiary. waste audit. Rockwood pays prisoners mini- Facebook for your brain Waste audit co-ordinator Kate Dykman spent Mar. 9 to 13 sorting through the university's The audit examines the garbage mum wage to work in composting, Murray Goldberg is the creator of collected at the university over the trash in an attempt to study students' recycling habits. said Slavick Duda, assistant opera- brainify.com, a social bookmarking site span of seven days, trying to gauge tions manager at Rockwood. aimed towards budding academics, whether students know their re- The conclusions were not said Kate Dykman, materials con- Duda said using prison labour particularly post-secondary students in cyclables from their compostables encouraging. servation co-ordinator with the U for this cause is beneficial for every- need of credible resources. Inspired by the amount of time and if each piece of waste ends up The system has been improving, of W, who co-ordinated the audit. one involved. students spend on-line looking for in the appropriate bin. but there is still work to be done, More recycling procedure edu- “We train them in work ethics, sources, Goldberg formed the website cation is the key, she said. like coming to work on time and in an effort to help students help their “The biggest challenge is let- building relationships with other peers. What garbage can tell ting everyone know,” she said. people,” he said. Brainify.com allows users to tag useful “Like you can’t recycle paper cups. Former prisoners can later use academic websites according to subject The 2009 audit just finished and the findings aren't out yet. You can compost them if they say those skills to get jobs outside of for those searching next and form Here are some of the results from last year’s audit: compostable.” prison. groups around particular issues. The ninth annual waste audit The U of W pays a “tipping fee” Launched earlier this year after two The audit was conducted over seven days in March, and examined the years of development, the site has waste generated during that one week only. concluded on Mar. 13. This to transport the material to the users from over 250 universities, with a  2,549.54 kg (2.54 tonnes) total waste was generated in that week. was Dykman’s third year as co- Rockwood site, much like the fees significantly large portion being faculty ordinator. at the Brady landfill, said Duda. members. The breakdown: The U of W is a leader inthe Scott Harrison is a U of W alum- province in terms of waste man- nus who has been sorting trash for Green building by 2010 agement, according to Green the audit for four years. Demolition continues from the inside paper products Manitoba program officer Lindsay “I enjoy doing it,” he said. “It’s out on the old United Army Surplus (28.01%) Irwin. an environmental thing, and it’s building that will hopefully house plastics Green Manitoba is a branch fun.” University of Winnipeg services by the (20.88%) of the provincial government Harrison is aware that students fall of 2010. that funds similar waste audits in do not take as much time to prop- Dan Hurley of the U of W says building Organic, post-secondary institutions across erly dispose of their waste. progress is slow because the university compostable misc. intends to use up to 75 per cent of the material (38.55%) (6.8%) Manitoba. “We’re all apathetic students,” he Irwin cited the U of W’s high said. “Too many compostable ma- old material to build the new structure, planned for programs such as continuing glass (2.55%) level of commitment as earning terials go in the garbage.”  16% of education and parts of the business polycoat – milk cartons, them this distinction, as well as the Students are encouraged to be faculty. the total waste tetra paks (1.48%) innovative post-consumer organics active in their waste management The United Army Surplus building is was recyclable material aluminum (1%) steel (0.64%) program at the university. by working the audit. part of the building initiative put forth deposited into garbage containers. Post-consumer waste is what is “There’s a real educational value by the university in 2008. Source: Waste Audit Report 2008 left after the food has been eaten by to seeing how much waste comes customers. through,” Irwin said. 06 Campus News The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca University voter turnout up across country U of W's numbers part of a trend; new media provides effective method of increasing votes Sandy Klowak to qualify. rector, specifically relating officer Patrick Wisheu. investigated, but has not been Election Beat reporter He said an increase of over implemented due to serious Missing in action to his work with Canadian controversies Blood Services regarding 1,500 votes in his university concerns regarding fraud and Some juicy tidbits Kelly Ross, incumbent can- their policy against ac- stems from a new online vot- election rigging," he said in an you may have missed didate for vice president cepting blood from homo- The University of Winnipeg’s ing system. e-mail. from the UWSA election student services, went MIA sexual men. 2009 student election boasted “Campus e-mails were sent Even with paper ballots, the for three days during the a fuller slate of candidates to everyone, and they were U of M has experienced an Taking poop lightly election. She was away than usual, which may have sent direct links on informa- impressive voter increase with Presidential candidate from school from March Fair weather contributed to a higher voter tion on the candidates and this year's turnout of 19.14 per Vassan Aruljothi distrib- 12 to 16. candidates? turnout. direct links to the voting sys- cent – up from last year's 9.71 uted a pamphlet that read, Ross was attending During last Friday's On Monday, Mar. 16, 327 tem,” he explained. per cent. “Don't be sad if a bird shit the California Bay Area presidential speeches, students turned up to vote, Rac said that the University Nova Scotia’s St. Francis

on you. Instead, be thank- Anarchist Bookfair, a non- current environmental roughly 3.3 per cent of the stu- mark Xavier University (StFX) also ful that cows don't fly. So UWSA related conference ethics director Stephanie dent population. As of 2 p.m. saw an increase from last year's re i

don't worry that we have that she committed to Chartrand asked three on Tuesday, Mar. 17, 195 more mer 50 per cent – to 60.4 per cent a shitty organization, be attending months before of the four presidential had cast their ballots. in the recent election. happy that we can change election dates were set, candidates why she had With over two voting days “There was a positive turn- it if we work together.” she said. not seen them at any left, the school was well on its out because of three solid The pamphlet was de- "I decided ... that my ac- University of Winnipeg way to beating last year's gen- slates of pretty awesome lead- scribed as an unprofes- tivist work outside of the Students’ Association eral election total of seven per ers and that is what drew the sional political faux pas UWSA is equally impor- (UWSA) board meetings cent, not to mention this year's students in," said Sarah Furey, by his opponent Brenden tant to the work that I do in the past year, skeptical dismal 2.2 per cent by-election StFX Students' Union's vice Sommerhalder during last within it, and, secondly, I about their sudden inter- turnout, said chief elections president communications. Friday's speeches. could not bear the finan- est in the UWSA. commissioner Michael Rac. In addition to an online "My goal is 10 per cent and of Winnipeg Students' voting system, StFX students Aruljothi followed with cial burden associated In response, Aruljothi ex- with canceling my plane plained that after a long I think we'll do it," he said Association (UWSA) has dis- have access to an election a public apology for the Tuesday. cussed online voting and it blog where contributors pro- pamphlets, which have ticket," Ross said in an shift at work he prefers to email. go home to eat and sleep; He attributes higher voter may be an option for the file candidates and share com- since been discontinued, turnout to the wide selection future. ments and critiques. he said. Sommerhalder said prior participation in the UWSA of candidates generating stu- "I do think it'll be some- The blog received 19,000 Brown vs. Niemczak is not a prerequisite for dent interest, especially the thing worth looking at," Rac hits during election time. Disqualification Current vice president in- candidacy, nor for car- four presidential hopefuls. said. “You can’t just sit back and "I see them basically all day, The U of W is currently in get voter turnout. You have to Presidential hope- ternal Geoff Brown is hop- ing for the association; every day, talking to people a technological transitional be pro-active," Furey said. ful Shimby Zegeye- ing to replace incumbent Jason Robillard pointed and making class presenta- phase with the new online U of W's Rac agrees. He Gebrehiwot was LGBT* Centre director out his experience with tions," Rac said. registration program and the said this year's increasingly disqualified due to a lack Jonathan Niemczak. the Part-Time/Mature This heightened interest in UWSA's new website launch. visible campaign strategy has of completed credit hours. Students' Centre and the At a recent board meeting, student politics is visible at But University of Manitoba promoted student interest. The first year student was UWSA Health Plan. Jason Brown criticized Niemczak many Canadian universities. Students' Union (UMSU) pulled out of the race as Syvixay has been present of no longer represent- "There was a significant president Jonny Sopotiuk is -With files from Laura candidates must have at several board meetings ing his LGBT* constituents increase last year in voting," wary of online voting sys- Kunzelman completed 30 credit hours this year. through his actions as di- said University of Alberta tems.” We do not do elec- Students' Union chief returns tronic voting; this has been

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Comments And we let them run the country...

Petty partisan of the president and the praise he that it “levels the playing field” course, is that the prime minister amended fiscal update and simply politics defeat has received is unique to American subsidies disproportionately favor in response to the opposition threat wait for the tabling of the budget society and unique to their history. the governing party. The party that backtracked from the subsidy cut. It in January? purpose of We should remember that there's a receives the most votes receives the would no longer be a part of the fis- In the aftermath of the coalition slippery slope between political ad- most money. Perhaps this is why cal update. The coalition proceeded fiasco we have witnessed the pout- government oration and unaccountability. But Jean Chrétien instituted it near the but shifted its justification: the op- ing, preliminary opposition of the our parliament is fractured by the end of his reign shortly after limit- position parties were committed NDP – they decided to vote against unprincipled ambition of our fed- ing corporate and individual cam- to economic stimulus that would the January budget before having eral politicians. paign donations. With a cap on benefit Canada while Harper was read it. We saw the final resignation Ethan Cabel donations, and without the where- merely “playing partisan games.” of Dion and the “anointment” of Volunteer staff Political enemies withal to earn mass, small contri- We watched as political enemies Michael Ignatieff who, as his first butions, where would the Liberals shook hands for the acquisition of decision in a parliament hinged on shook hands for find their money? power (the coalition accord) on party discipline, decided to support Our House of Commons is not the acquisition Cutting the subsidy would, in Dec. 1, 2008. Stephane Dion, who the Tory budget while allowing plagued so much by our lack of principle, level the playing field. had criticized the NDP platform four MPs from Newfoundland and messianic instruction as it is by the of power Rather than parties like the Bloc as an experiment with “monopoly Labrador a temporary vote of pro- carpet bagging and the opportun- receiving federal funding, each money” in October, smiled and test. We were forced to hear, further, ism of our political left. party would work to fundraise embraced a grinning Jack Layton. that Elizabeth May was vying for a Canadians don't have to embrace On Nov. 27, 2008, Finance from their own supporters. Yet, in Dion, author of the Clarity Act Senate seat during the coalition dis- any prophetic political visions. We Minister Jim Flaherty delivered practice, upon cutting the funding, (legislation that, in effect, killed cussions. And, after the Green par- don't have an executive family that, the fiscal update. Within that up- each party does not start at zero. the possibility of Quebec's sep- ty's recent policy convention, May if given a chance, could advertise date the Conservative government The Conservatives would be finan- aration through referendum), is still debating over whether or not and sell Pepsi-Cola. We have yet sought to abolish voter subsidies – a cially stable. The Liberals would be firmly gripped the hand of Gilles to continue her stunt of running to see bobbleheads, key chains, mechanism of public funding that broke. It was a low partisan tactic Duceppe, a strident separatist. in the ultra-Conservative riding of T-shirts or poker decks bearing the keeps smaller parties like the Green to put forward a cut of that magni- And yet on Jan. 28 of this year Central Nova Scotia. likeness of our Dear Leader. There party afloat. The Liberal party, tude in November 2008. the federal budget passed – with And we take these people is no such thing as Harpermania – which relies on the subsidy for 63 But could the issue of voter sub- a Liberal amendment. Could the seriously? and this, contrary to popular belief, per cent of its funding, would have sidies have been handled in a ma- fiscal update have been amended Canada doesn't need a prophetic is probably a good thing. been in dire financial straits after ture way by seemingly competent in a similar fashion? Certainly. figure. A little competence and a I would rather have a leader their historic defeat, unlike the parliamentarians? I think so. Why And it could be argued, as the handful of real convictions should that is questioned and at times dis- Conservatives, who only rely on it wasn't it? Conservatives backed away from do. dained by the majority than one for 37 per cent of their funding. The coalition was touted as a subsidy cuts as well as several who is unknown and uncondition- However, disregarding these cir- way to avoid an election while still other motions, that the update Ethan Cabel is a University of ally loved. Canada doesn't need cumstances, cutting the voter sub- opposing the fiscal update in a con- was amended. So why wouldn’t Winnipeg student. “it's own Obama.” The character sidy makes sense. Despite claims fidence motion. The problem, of the opposition parties support the

Police prejudice blinds us It turns out and more people are coming for- tected. And they have a split second It is a mutual social contract ward claiming violence or abuse to consider the response while hav- we actually at the hands of the police. Many ing to deal with realizations of their – we have agreed to follow a need our cops demand compensation or at least own mortality at the same time. set of rules in society some version of “justice.” Yes, po- I cannot read another account of lice forces exist to protect us, but a crying mother condemning the like racial profiling happen. I un- ate or find trouble just for kicks. I our interpretation of what con- police for shooting her son because derstand that once someone is in feel safe knowing that someone has Devin Morrow stitutes protection is constantly he jumped at them with a knife or custody they do not expect to be made a pledge to protect the well- Comments editor changing. a screwdriver or a box cutter. After beaten up by officers. I understand being of individuals and my society, Granted, no one likes to read the all, anyone brandishing a weapon that police should not be given provided we have made the pledge morning news to find that yet an- at a group of armed people whose special preference when they kill a in return that we will exist in a rea- There is an ongoing battle between other knife-brandishing person was purpose it is to enforce the law can- woman due to off-duty drunk driv- sonable manner. And if that means police and regular citizens. The gunned down by police because not really expect any less. Yes, po- ing. These are all very real issues that police are armed with Tasers inquiry into Robert Dziekanski’s they refused to come quietly. We sit lice have a duty to protect people that cannot be ignored. But when or guns because they may have to death shows that the battle is not back and seethe with moral outrage and avoid killing them at all costs, we assume that this is the norm make a decision in a split-second based around whether or not the that the police didn’t take the time but it is a mutual social contract – and that police are the enemy, that’s when we break that contract? Then police are enforcing the law, but to consider the situation. But we we have agreed to follow a set of when the problems really arise. I’m OK with that. rather how they carry out their fail to consider the fact that police rules in society so we can all func- Personally, I feel safe in the duties. officers are not robots or armoured tion in it together, at least some- downtown knowing that there is Police brutality is a popular sub- vehicles but people with families of what peaceably. a police presence – because police ject these days as it seems like more their own. They also need to be pro- I understand that awful things don’t drive around trying to cre- 08 Comments The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca Adults can read comics, too Thanks to movie influences, comics appeal to a broader audience

This, and a small change in no- sides against one another. It can be Andrew McMonagle menclature, evolved how com- read as an allegory about a post-Pa- Marvel comics learned a Beat reporter ics are perceived. They are now triot Act America, sowing seeds of harsh lesson in the '90s “graphic novels,” when reprinted in distrust amidst the populace. Mark collected form (individually, they Millar, the author of the Civil War when they made the error of Are comic books cool yet? Hyper- are still comic books.) mini-series admitted in a New York mistaking popular for good popular books like Watchmen sure It is not hard to see where the Times interview that there were two are, but the genre is still learning. movie inspiration comes from, es- levels it could be read on, but that it Comic books and their fans have pecially given the fact that DC wouldn’t exclude kids who just like but explode things. ing more. Not only had Marvel long been associated with social Comics is owned by Warner fight scenes. Kind of like Animal The frenetic pace and improb- oversaturated their comics with misfits and loners. All you have to Brothers. Marvel Comics even uses Farm, right? ably quick and clean summations this formula, they massively over- do is walk into any comic store and movie-like trailers for some of their made it look like everyone in the printed them. glance at the clientele to see where series, available on their website. As it used to be book took a shot of adrenaline be- This means that back-issue bins this presumption comes from. tween the pages. They were graphic are flooded with those improbable Comics have taken a benefi- Readers can… read! Surprise! Comics used to be four-colour at- versions of boys’ dreams. physiques and guns that are bigger cial recursive loop on themselves. tention-grabbers with zany themes. Comics had to adapt. Marvel than the wielders. Characters like Superman, Batman The industry is now accepting of In the '60s they held promises of comics learned a harsh lesson in the So, are comics cool yet? Given and Spider-Man were popular, so – and even counting on – readers scientific innovation. They were fu- '90s when they made the error of that the periodical dedicated to the movies were based on them. The to be able to handle a complicated, turistic and weird, but entertaining mistaking popular for good. They industry is called Wizard Magazine, movies were popular, so the comics intellectual plot that is relevant nonetheless. One thing was for sure hit upon a successful formula of probably not. But they’re closer started imitating the movies. to contemporary society. This though – they were not aiming at big-breasted women and 18 pages than ever. What we’re left with in the com- was reflected in the 2008 Marvel the maturity of their readers. of fight scenes in a 22-page book ics are slick graphics, life-like colour cross-title event Civil War, where Storylines often involved that appealed greatly to the teenage Andrew McMonagle is a beat gradients and an attention on sto- superheroes were subject to man- women-in-need rescues, pointless market. Well, those teenage boys reporter at The Uniter and a rytelling that was sorely lacking a datory registration, and the result- antagonists with thin motivations grew up (unlike many comic char- University of Winnipeg student. decade ago. ing milieu caused them to choose and explosions that did everything acters) and found themselves want- Comments 09 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter Good Where is our civic vision? & Evil From flags to Ikea, Apparently, we as a city should look forward to a time when our we’ve got traditionally central meeting place will pale in comparison to the ex- it backwards citement that a senselessly large mall in the suburban southwest can generate. Andrew Tod Though plans are still in the with J.Williamez Volunteer staff proposal stage, it seems the Ikea development complex is all but a done deal. In a city with an infe- A newfound interest in how riority complex roughly the size Birthdays: Bad Manitobans portray themselves to of this proposed shopping cen- the world seems to have begun in tre, city officials will always bend for You, Good for earnest. The Winnipeg Free Press james over backwards for the privilege of recently launched a design con- hosting the types of corporate cli- cu the Economy test to garner support for revamp- ll ents bigger cities boast of. et o

ing Manitoba’s provincial flag. The n This brings us back to the hype contest was inspired by some in in Winnipeg concerning the great If you’ve ever celebrated a birthday at a bar the provincial New Democratic flag debate, and whether or not we or licensed restaurant with any more than Party who have been pushing to as Winnipeggers see our provincial one friend, then you know that birthdays can undertake a re-branding of our towards another major civic issue This will spring up just a few flag as an embarrassing relic or an be very hazardous to your health. In many provincial flag the same way they that grabbed headlines last week. blocks north of the other shop- appropriate representation of our circles birthdays have come to be little more re-branded our provincial slogan I am talking of course about the ping complexes that already lit- provincial character. than an excuse to bring our dearest friends in the now infamous ‘Spirited plans to add yet another monu- ter either side of south Kenaston. Before we go on about how as close to death as possible (presumably Energy’ campaign. ment to the great North American Along with the shopping mall ex- Manitoba’s flag could be im- Premier Doer rejected the flag pastime of shopping to the traffic pansion, Shaftesbury Boulevard, proved, perhaps we should focus without actually achieving death) with the proposal, but that hasn’t stopped death trap and box store wasteland Kenaston and Sterling Lyon will more on how Manitoba’s capital use of alcoholic beverages. many in Winnipeg from consid- that is Kenaston Boulevard. all be widened in desperate at- can improve, especially its ten- In my circle of friends, it is considered a ering our current flag’s shortcom- As it turns out, the Ikea which tempts to accommodate the mas- dency to do away with any sem- grievous insult to refuse a drink on one’s ings, and what these flaws expose is coming to our fair city by 2011 is sive influx of traffic coming to an blance of long term city planning. own birthday. This leads to two very distinct about us as Manitobans. Fears that only the beginning of yet another already overdeveloped area. The thought of having an Ikea of sets of behavior: our flag may be boring, outdated, development proposal seeking It almost seems that Winnipeg’s our very own is exciting to many, 1. The friends of the celebrator begin or even too similar to Ontario’s to reaffirm Winnipeg’s antipathy city planners take pride in the but just like our provincial flag, (gasp!) have sprung up in conversa- to sustainable city planning. Not dead last ranking of sustainable this urban sprawl model of de- giggling fiendishly while buying shot after tions and newspapers throughout only is Winnipeg set to showcase cities we recently received. This velopment is both outdated and shot of the most disgusting drinks they can Winnipeg. A groundswell of sup- its very own Mecca of pretentious shopping complex will only add embarrassing. imagine. This is how many popular drinks port for updating the Manitoban Swedish furniture, but by 2018 the to the congestion apparent to any- were first invented, which makes perfect flag to something more modern 350,000 square foot Ikea will just one who has ever driven down Andrew Tod is a University of sense if you think about it. Can you think of and exciting appears to be gather- be a piece of a 1.5 million square Kenaston. Nonetheless, city offi- Winnipeg student. any reason someone would order a “Prairie ing steam. foot shopping complex at the cor- cials are touting the proposed mall Fire” (made with tequila and hot sauce) a If only this passion for change ner of Kenaston and Sterling Lyon development as being even more and innovation could be directed Parkway. ambitious than The Forks. “Yack” (made with equal parts Jagermeister and Jack Daniels) or a “Wild Turkey” (which is made with Wild Turkey bourbon and nothing else) other than to punish a close friend on his or her birthday? Letters 2. The other behavior elicited by our current birthday tradition is that the celebrator begins dreading birthdays and Re: "The pill – revealed" changes of each menstrual cycle. She keeps a begins every new year of his or her life with As one quoted in this article (Feb. 26 issue), record (chart) of daily observations of her cer- the slurred, mumbled phrase: “I’m never I want to correct information provided on vical mucus secretions and waking temperature drinking again.” Fertility Awareness Methods of birth control. (Basal Body Temperature). This information is Given these indisputable truths, it might Inaccurate, incomplete and misleading in- used to determine when the fertile phase begins seem tempting for some to forgo the entire formation often dissuades women and their and ends. The fertile phase typically lasts 7 to enterprise of birthdays altogether (or at healthcare providers from considering FAM 10 days and is the time during which ovulation Send your letters as an effective alternative to hormonal contra- (release of egg) occurs. To prevent pregnancy, least to stop going anywhere near a bar ception. Here is an accurate summary of the intercourse is avoided during the entire fertile to [email protected] while celebrating a birthday). This, however, method. phase. Women can choose to use barrier meth- would be a grave mistake, the consequences Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) ods such as condoms or diaphragm for pro- of which we would all suffer greatly. How it works: The most effective Fertility tected intercourse during fertile days. We are in a time of severe economic Awareness Method is the sympto-thermal Effectiveness: The sympto-thermal Fertility hardship. Unemployment is at an all-time method. It teaches a woman how to observe, Awareness Method is 99.6% effective when used high in some places (we know this because chart and interpret two signs of fertility that consistently and perfectly with avoidance of in- senting the content of the paper online, (far ebb and flow with the natural hormonal tercourse during the fertile phase. It is 75- 80 % better than most student newspapers) but the we’re told so by the people whose job it is effective with typical use. If barrier methods are new site seems even more navigable, intellectu- to tell us about how many people don’t used during the fertile phase, the effectiveness ally engaging and aesthetically pleasing. Now have jobs.) The only way to keep our global rate of the barrier method applies. a newspaper with great newsprint format has economy from slipping into a full-blown Lowest expected rate of pregnancy: 0.4% an online presence to match. While much of depression is to continue spending way too More information: www.sexualityandu. our local media has scaled back its operations, much money getting our friends drunk on ca (Contraception / Natural Birth Control), it's nice to see community-driven media con- their birthdays. www.justisse.ca (free user’s guide & find a tinue to innovate and better serve its reader- FAM teacher) ship. Cheers to The Uniter and its staff. You might think that our money could Laura Wershler be spent more productively, but if you Executive Director, Sexual Health Access Ben Wickström think about it for a little, you’ll realize how Alberta embarrassingly wrong you are. Getting your friends really drunk on their birthdays not only feeds money back into The Uniter Editor’s note: Check us out online at www. As someone who reads primarily the economy, but moreover, creates and online I wanted to congratulate you on the uniter.ca. new website. The old site did a good job of pre- secures many jobs as well. Taxi drivers, bartenders, vomit cleaners and stomach pump operators would all be out of work if we were to meddle in any way with our birthday tradition of almost killing our friends with alcohol for our own sadistic enjoyment. So I say, let’s keep up the good work. After all, you know what they say: If it ain’t broke, pour whisky on it. Then pour more whisky on it.

J. Williamez is a local musician. You can catch him every Monday at Shannon’s Irish Pub where he cer- tainly won’t buy you drinks on your birthday. 10 The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca

Features Dictating artistic merit When a comic book is deemed obscene at the Canadian border, are our rights to free expression overruled?

Ethan Cabel agreed to comment on the CBSA’s ror, cruelty and violence, shall be tency and uniformity,” he said. CBSA, the law is cut and dry. Volunteer staff commitment to protecting deemed obscene.” While the CBSA has the right “It is the responsibility of the Canadian citizens. The Canadian Charter of Rights to seize materials, any importer has importer to appeal within the des- “We administer 90 different, var- and Freedoms protects expressive the right to appeal that decision in ignated time and we [the CBSA] Scanning the bookshelves of local ious acts and legislation…We stop rights under Section 2 of the con- an attempt to regain possession of have the responsibility to inform head shop Kustom Kulture can goods and people not allowed into stitution. Section 1 of the Charter, the imported items. This, Brennan them of our decisions within a rea- be both a rewarding and shocking the country and facilitate and help however, stipulates that certain argues, ensures that the CBSA’s de- sonable time,” Nyhus said. “It is experience – amongst the droves goods and people allowed into the rights within the Charter can be cisions are consistent in that they also the responsibility of the im- of alternative comics, titles like country. That’s our mandate, that’s overruled if they cannot be justified are subject to reevaluation due to porter to know the law before Footlicker, House Wives at Play and our job,” she said. in a “free and democratic society.” appeals. importing.” Head jump out at you. This section prevents hate speech “Certainly I would say that While many are sexually explicit Art or porn? and obscenity by overruling claims where you have a large border pa- Who decides? and wildly erotic books, others fea- of the right to free expression be- trol workforce…the very justifica- ture socially relevant depictions of On Apr. 23, 2008, the CBSA cause hate speech and obscenity, in tion for setting up a mechanism for Although the appeals process is fetishism, sexual frustration and seized four copies of a comic des- certain cases, are believed to cause appeal or a tribunal is the attempt free and easy, the onus is placed on loneliness. tined for Kustom's shelves. The harm to society as a whole. to be consistent,” Brennan added. the importer to disprove obscenity Kustom Kulture is a Winnipeg comics were seized on the grounds Expressive rights are suspended The CBSA's appeal process re- rather than on the CBSA to prove retail outlet, established in 1995 to of obscenity, under the subsections in the case of border seizures due mains simple for small importers. the material is, in fact, obscene. emulate a traditional 1970s head of bestiality and necrophilia. to Section 1. It is argued the ob- After 30 days of the initial detention The material, in effect, is assumed shop. The satirical book was called scene materials cause societal harm, of the material, the CBSA informs guilty. All the comics are a testament Boffy the Vampire Layer Meets which justifies their seizure by the the importer of their decision. If If the importer fails the appeal to buyer and assistant manager Britney Spreads!. CBSA. the material is prohibited, the im- with the CBSA and pursues litiga- Cass Sikorski’s belief in the viabil- A notice of detention was sent to If Kustom were to make an ap- porter can file a written request tion in court, the burden of proof ity and diversity of comics as a me- Kustom. peal, they would have to argue that within 90 days to the Prohibited shifts back to the government but dium that, she hopes, has garnered “We're an established business the imported material does not Importations Unit of the CBSA. the process is much more expensive a wider readership since she started and I wouldn’t think we'd be sin- cause societal harm. Kustom Kulture did not file an and much more difficult for the working at Kustom in 2000. gled out [by the CBSA] but at the Steven Brennan, a Winnipeg- appeal and all four copies of Boffy importer. “You can attract a greater popula- same time it wouldn't surprise me,” based lawyer, helped put that in the Vampire Layer Meets Britney “It is always expensive to litigate tion of readers through the graphic Sikorski said in an e-mail, hinting context. Spreads! were destroyed. against the government,” Brennan novel format,” said Sikorski, speak- that the CBSA is not entirely fair in “…[An] argument would have “I lost my shit,” Sikorski said. said. “Effectively, private parties ing to their market potential. to be that it [the comic book] does “When I got the notice in the mail are going up against the limitless “I talk to a lot of people who not fail the community standards from the Canada Border Services resources of the Canadian public will say 'I don't read but I read test…that it does not unduly ex- Agency... [I thought] censorship! [which is] never an easy fight.” comics.'” ploit sex in a degrading or dehu- Homophobia! There were…book Currently, if an importer wants Prompted by what she character- manizing way, which prevents a titles being held and I contacted to go beyond the internal ap- izes as a “pleasant obsession” with risk of harm to society at large,” our brokers right away to get as peal through the CBSA, up to the comic books, Sikorski furthered Brennan said. much information as I could to level of the courts, the money for the store’s commitment to the me- The CBSA employs some 13,000 prep myself.” that challenge comes out of the dium by increasing and broadening people working across 1,200 bor- A broker mediates between buy- importer’s pocket. This, accord- its stock to include more literary der points throughout Canada. ers and sellers, usually through a ing the Brennan, is a bit of a graphic novels. The sales figures Of these border points, 119 are brokerage agency. contradiction. for certain titles, she said, especially land crossings and 61 operate at all “The brokers implied that we'd The government titles of historical or political rele- hours. pretty much be shit out of luck… is restricting vance, are promising. The size of the CBSA, while the value on those [comics] was low expres- There are severe limits on considering the prejudices of indi- and a minimal loss to us so I had to the availability of certain titles, vidual border officials, could raise let it go,” she said. however. speculation about the consistency Sikorski was unable to com- “Raincoast [a Canadian book of its decisions. ment on her brokers di- distributor] pulled all their “Our review process and deten- rectly or on their Fantagraphics [an American pub- tion notices address that [prob- advice. lisher] titles just recently without Footlicker is one of the controversial lem],” CBSA’s Nyhus said. For the a reason, so now we have to im- titles carried by Kustom Kulture. Brennan supported this idea. port most of our comics from the “Given that there is a specialized States,” Sikorski said. unit set up to hear appeals at their Fantagraphics simply changed its seizures. first instance I would suggest distributors, said a Raincoast cus- The materials, according to the that it is the attempt of tomer service representative who detention notice, were prohibited Canada Customs requested anonymity. It is common under the Customs Tariff relating to to provide for publishers to change distribu- a subsection of the Criminal Code consis- tors, the representative added. that states: “…any publication a Kustom imports their comic dominant characteristic of which books to Canada from the United is the undue exploitation of sex States through United Parcel or of sex and any one or Service (UPS). more of the follow- As imported goods, the books ing…namely, are subject to the regulations of the crime, Canadian Border Services Agency hor- (CBSA). The CBSA operates under the Canadian Criminal Code, the Customs Act and the Customs Tariff. Spokesperson Lauretta Nyhus Features 11 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter

sive rights yet if the importer wants case. tion to wrestle with and that makes chr i s to affirm their rights through the That means that those judges op- it a problem of enforcement.” fr i courts, they are required to pay all posed to the seizure of obscene ma- Baldwin said a complaint must esen legal fees. terials by the CBSA required only be made to police and that they ob- “The larger question,” he added, one more judge to form a majority viously don’t have police searching “is whether there ought to be a on that decision. stores looking for obscene materials government-funded advocate that And rightly so, she argues. within the borders of Canada. advances the claim on the govern- Around the time of the Little “Some of it comes down to ex- ment’s purse…to ensure that re- Sisters seizures at the British posure; to enforce obscenity re- sources, or the scarcity of resources, Columbia border – between 1989 quires a complaint.” don’t become the ultimate reason and 1992 – just under 35,000 ship- Busby argues that importers like for any decision.” ments were prohibited under the Kustom Kulture are not being of- The Canadian Court Challenges Customs Tariff. During that time, ficially charged by the CBSA but Program was a federally funded only 14 charges – not even convic- are being censored without know- program created in 1978 to heal this tions – were laid under the obscen- ing the internal workings of border contradiction – by advancing and ity provisions in the Criminal Code. security. They are also not provided funding large, rights-based claims This essentially means that censor- with the resources to challenge the against the government. Funding ship trumps criminal conviction. government up to the level of the for the program, however, was “So you can see that Canada courts. Without government sup- abolished in 2006 by the current Customs is a significant censoring port, their rights are being tram- Harper government. force but we don’t know what they pled, she said. Karen Busby is a University of do and how they do their work, and Cass Sikorski, with her near-en- Manitoba law professor and a con- that’s problematic,” Busby said. cyclopedic knowledge and undying stitutional law expert and civil lib- love for alternative comics, has a lot erties activist. Enforcement to say about the importance of the “The Conservative government, The subsection of the Criminal medium. by canceling the Court Challenges Code that allows for border seizures She believes they are an inex- Program among other things, has due to obscenity is relevant beyond orable source of education and restricted the ability of citizens to the limits of the border: Individual interest. make complaints and to take for- stores and Canadian citizens can “…People know now that they ward complicated and expensive be charged with obscenity in any can read history in a form that’s Although Winnipeg-based lawyer Steve Brennan says Canadian cases,” she said. province throughout Canada. more accessible,” she said. citizens have ways to challenge the CBSA's seizures, he notes In 2000, Busby acted as an in- “In my view, if Kustom Kulture Most importantly, however, is that, “It is always expensive to litigate against the government.” tervener in the Supreme Court of wants to sell these magazines they what comics – as with all art forms Canada, defending a queer book- should be able to sell them and run – provide for the reader. store against what was viewed as the risk of an obscenity charge,” “The most important thing is discrimination at the hands of Busby said. “And the reality is the pleasure you get from it.”  the CBSA. Border officers were they’re not going to be charged charged with deliberately inspect- under the obscenity provisions in ing and seizing B.C.-based Little the Criminal Code because those Sisters Book and Art Emporium's charges are almost nonexistent.” book shipments under the auspice Sergeant Kerry Baldwin works of obscenity. Little Sisters was de- in the Winnipeg Police Service’s feated at the court level, however. Vice Unit. The B.C. Civil Liberties “We’re not the book police,” Association, another intervener in he said. “The difficulty is the case, did not respond to re- with the definition of quests for an interview. obscenity… It is “Four [out of nine] judges a difficult would have struck down the pro- defini- visions giving Canada Customs the power to exercise border con- trols…so the Supreme Court was closely split on that issue,” Busby said of the Little Sisters

Systematic targeting? One bookstore that took the government to the Supreme Court Little Sisters Book and Art Emporium vs. Canada (Dec. 15, 2000) · Little Sisters is a bookstore in Vancouver, British Columbia that caters to the LGBT community · They carry a wide variety of queer erotica, 80 to 90 per cent of which is acquired through U.S. imports · Little Sisters went to trial believing that the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) had deliberately targeted their store · A B.C. trial judge ruled that the store had been subject to “systematic targeting” by bor- der officials · The Supreme Court of Canada agreed that border officials behaved improperly but still ruled in favor of the CBSA because Section 1 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms allows expressive rights to be infringed in certain, justifiable cases (like border seizures) 12 The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca Arts & Culture Stimulating the brain Mobile art gallery's exhibition all about erotica

Jeannine DesRoches Volunteer

Erotica is the theme of the latest art exhibition by a mobile art gal- lery initiated by local artist Wanda Luna that aims to reintroduce peo- ple to art. “Things move so quickly, espe- cially with the Internet, so why not make a gallery mobile and make that travel?” Luna asked. After successful exhibits at The Forks and The Garrick Centre, Luna’s Estudio Luna Galeria is hosting All About Erotica for one night only at Taste of Sri Lanka on Bannatyne Avenue on Saturday, Mar. 21. She sent a call for submissions to "First Time" by a variety of art schools, resulting in Sara Collard. Mixed a variety of art. media on paper, “Not all the images are going to 2008. be for everybody…not everyone finds the same thing erotic. I mean, Luna stressed that erotica and sex Luna started Estudio Luna 300. are going to need about 100 artists I find cellos erotic.” aren’t the same thing. While they’re Galeria two years ago as a result Her next show will be her big- and performers for that event.” In “First Time” by Sarah Collard, on the same page, she defined eroti- of her desire to show art to people gest yet, though, as it will be held two individuals meet for their first cism as a state of mind rather than who might not go to a traditional at The Millennium Library. There See All About Erotica on Saturday, sexual encounter. The exhibit also a physical act. art show. She donates her profits to will be music and art on all four Mar. 21 at 8 p.m. at Taste of Sri features a painting by Collard titled “Sex is about the physical side, the artists. floors. Lanka, 179 Bannatyne Ave. The “V Day,” which uses the image of eroticism is all the stuff before Last October she hosted The “The Millennium wants to send evening will feature music by robust breasts as a sign of celebra- that,” she said. “The brain is the Death Show, a death-themed art a message that libraries are not what Slattern, Jahgo, China White and tion and ecstasy. Jordan Miller’s largest sex organ. That’s where it all exhibit, at The Garrick Centre. they used to be and I want to send a Divas on the Loose. Tickets are $10. “Orgasm: Separation from Thyself,” begins, it’s all about stimulating the The show featured 40 artists, a message that art isn’t what it used to Visit http://studioluna.blogspot.com. meanwhile, portrays two lovers in brain, and that’s what I’m hoping performance by death metal band be either,” Luna said. “We haven’t the throes of passion. to do with this show.” Damascus and drew a crowd of set the date or the name yet, but we Ar t s Ed i t o r : Aa r o n Epp Arts & Culture 13 E-m a i l : Ar t s @u n i t e r .c a Ph o n e : 786-9497 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter Fa x : 783-7080 Speaking about the Jewish experience Co urtes y o y T f B amar arr

The Counterfeiters, the story of Saloman Sorowitsch, who was involved with the Nazis in the largest counterfeiting scheme in history, is one of 15 movies showing at the Winnipeg International Jewish Film Festival, on now.

ple to see great film,” said Tamar budget and availability, organizers Annual film festival Barr, program director at the Rady wanted to make this year’s festival offers something Centre. “There is no better way to larger and more publicized than reach people than through film be- ever. for everyone with cause people seem to relate a lot “All of these films speak about through film. They are drawn into the Jewish experience in different The Uniter Fashion Streeter is an ongoing documentation of creative fashion in Winnipeg inspired largest line-up yet it and at the same time they are ways,” Barr said. “Whether it is by the Helsinki fashion blog www.hel-looks.com. Each week will feature a new look from our city’s entertained.” an intimate Holocaust experience streets and bars in an attempt to encourage individual expression and celebrate that you are The festival, which usually draws story or a group of Israeli women’s really, really good looking. Marina Koslock a crowd of 1,500, is now in its sixth stories who spin together to show Volunteer staff year. The 2009 edition will be how modern day life of a Jewish the largest yet, with 15 films from woman is, there are stories here around the globe. that are relatable to everyone, not Documentaries, coming-of-age sto- “There is not a unified theme just Jewish men and women. We ries, comedies, dramas and reinter- that runs through each film,” Barr want people to come out and em- pretations of tales from the Torah said. “They are all diverse. There is brace it.” – all are part of the 2009 Winnipeg an array of genres from the fam- International Jewish Film Festival. ily-friendly to the coming-of-age, The Winnipeg International Jewish Presented by the Rady Jewish cutting drama. Essentially, there is Film Festival is on now. Films are Community Centre in conjunc- something for everyone.” shown at the Berney Theatre, Asper tion with The Asper Foundation, Organizers decided what to Jewish Community Campus, 123 the festival runs from Mar. 18 to screen based on which films won Doncaster St. For a full schedule John Mar. 31 and boasts a line-up of films awards, which films were new and and ticket prices, visit www.radyjcc. from a number of countries. which films were popular. Though com. "I just wear “It’s just an opportunity for peo- they still had to consider their whatever is clean."

Top four films Tamar Barr, program director at Winnipeg’s Rady Jewish Someone To Run With Community Centre, picks four must-see films playing at (Israel, 2006) the 2009 Winnipeg International Jewish Film Festival. Saturday, Mar. 21, 9 p.m. Blessed Is The Match: The Life and Death This is a fast-paced story about two 17-year-olds, Assaf and Tamar, who are living two separate lives in modern day of Hannah Senesh Jerusalem. Their journey into adulthood is an endurance (Hungary, Israel, U.S.A, Czech Republic, 2008) test of their bravery and commitment. Together, they find Thursday, Mar. 19, 7:30 p.m. themselves while finding a lover as well. This is the first documentary aboutH annah Senesh, a “It just has a great story line. It’s a mystery by [best-sell- World War II poet and diarist. We are allowed into the inti- ing author] David Grossman.” mate Senesh family documents as well as hearing witness testimony to discover who this woman was and how she changed the face of poetry forever. The Counterfeiters “This is the life story of a heroine. She did a lot to save the (Austria/Germany, 2007) people around her. It is a must see.” Tuesday, Mar. 30, 7:30 p.m. The story of Saloman Sorowitsch, who was involved with the Nazis in the largest counterfeiting scheme in history, The Debt known as “Operation Bernhard.” Unsuspecting Jewish (Israel, 2007) death camp prisoners were forced to help carry out the Saturday, Mar. 28, 9 p.m. forging of millions of British pounds. The secret service agents of Israel, the Mossad, capture a “This film was an Oscar winner in 2007 for best foreign Nazi doctor and wish to bring him to trial in 1964. It is the film.” cat and mouse chase of the Nazis and the Jews in reverse, and every moment that passes is another shock. All foreign films are shown with English subtitles. “The Debt is unique and an excellent thriller. It really tus i brings us back to that time period.” t y nd i c 14 arts & culture The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca

MOVIE REVIEW BOOK REVIEW Not just another killing machine Jean-Claude Van Damme. He has bills to pay. The movie asks: who is JCVD? Van Damme Sure he’s famous, but mostly be- cause he makes a great punch line pulls off nuanced at the end of so many jokes. Even the crowds who make him a folk performance full hero during the hostage situation don’t really get him. of pain and pathos Though it never reaches the in JCVD head-tripping level of a Charlie Kaufman project, this film defi- nitely pushes the boundaries of the Timothy Penner action film, and it manages to move Volunteer staff Van Damme from action hero to Jean-Claude Van Damme plays a fictionalized version of himself in the metaphysical, Somewhere Else existential hero. Well…he’s getting By Jan Guenther Braun “post-modern” action film JCVD. closer at least. JCVD Arbeiter Ring Publishing, 2008 Directed by Mabrouk El Mechri Something has to be said about Van Damme’s acting; he’s pulled 200 pages 96 minutes (Double Impact, Street Fighter) plays much more information than that, off what few ever expected of him $19.95 Plays at Cinematheque Mar. 20 at 11 p.m., Mar. 21 at a fictionalized version of himself in since the fun of the film is the way with a nuanced performance full 9 p.m., Mar. 22 at 7 p.m., Mar. 25 and 26 at 9 p.m. this metaphysical, “post-modern” it plays around with perception and of pain and pathos as he works Jennifer Pawluk action film. In the movie, it has reality. Using a non-linear narrative, through some difficult questions Volunteer staff been years since he’s had a success- the movie repeats scenes from sev- about himself. In fact, his acting is The first thing I should admit as ful role; he’s fighting for the custody eral perspectives, forcing the audi- more surprising than getting one I begin this review is that I am of his daughter, who wants little to ence to rethink the story as it moves of his windmill kicks to the head (I Somewhere Else, the debut novel not a fan of '80s action movies. do with him, and he keeps losing along. assume). from local author Jan Guenther I’ve always felt there’s something bad parts to Steven Seagal. Maybe This shifting of perception starts If you missed this film the last Braun, has been widely distrib- rather odd about invincible-super- it’s not so fictionalized? as soon as the movie begins, with time it played in Winnipeg, be sure uted within the genre of queer men-killing-machines reinforcing In an attempt to regain focus, a typical action movie scenario: An to get down to Cinematheque this fiction. Yet, the style of the narra- stereotypes about foreigners in dis- Van Damme heads back to his impressive extended shot where week. Whether you’re a fan or not, tive seems to more aptly suit the turbingly formulaic (and Reagan- hometown of Brussels only to get Van Damme single-handedly takes JCVD is just a helluva good time. coming-of-age tradition. tastic) ways. caught up in a violent hostage down an entire army. This turns out Braun has written a smart, JVCD is refreshingly different. situation. to be a scene from another run-of- heart-wrenching tale of a young Jean-Claude Van Damme It would be unfair to give you the-mill, pot boiler action flick for woman who must learn to ac- cept herself as a homosex- ual Mennonite living in rural Saskatchewan. To do so, she must leave her home, her family and her assumptions behind, striv- ing to forge a new life for herself THEATRE PREVIEW somewhere else. The transition from adoles- cence to adulthood is more dif- ficult than most for Jess Klassen, Reasonable doubt but the journey is one of empow- erment, acceptance and, eventu- T MTC brings rud ally, self-actualization. i e This is perhaps best realized in award-winning Lee the meta-narrative moments of the text, where Braun writes di- play to the stage alogue in Low German, includes a few lines of poetry now and Doubt: A Parable again, and also questions the re- Directed by Miles Potter liability of her narrator, the pro- tagonist, herself. The effect is one Plays at Manitoba Theatre Centre until Apr. 4 in which readers may better un- derstand Jess’s own growth and personal development. It is in these moments where John Herbert Cunningham Jess Klassen most clearly iden- Volunteer staff tifies herself. And it is in these moments where the novel pulses with life. A nun with nasty habits and a priest Throughout this search for with secrets to hide – what could identity, Braun has written Jess’s be more dramatic than that? character with a sort of sad sense John Patrick Shanley’s Pulitzer of humour, but full of passion and Prize-winning play Doubt, which insight, and not without a stub- inspired the recent Academy born streak. In many ways, Jess Award-nominated movie of the hides behind her fears repeatedly same name, takes place during the in the narrative, but her courage troubled times of the ‘60s in an ed- of conviction ultimately sees her ifice which is part seminary, part through, time after time. This is nunnery and part school. There is where she finds her incredible only one black child at the school strength – the kind of strength it and the priest, Father Brendan Nancy Palk and Trevor Leigh star in Manitoba Theatre Centre's production of the award-winning play Doubt: A Parable. takes to leave home at 16. Flynn (Trevor Leigh), has taken “Nobody tells me what to do, this student under his wing, know- least of all the people I love the ing the difficulties this student will why is it necessary for the priest to sexless Sister Aloysius. She is stern dance of the black child’s mother most. Nobody tells me what to have fitting in. have a Bronx accent? He has been and unbending, believing that (Lesley Ewen) at her office. The do, least of all the people who The head nun, Sister Aloysius to three parishes in five years so teachers should not show warmth purpose, or so it initially seems, is to have a better idea than I do of (Nancy Palk), suspects there may there’s a good chance he’s not from to their students because it weak- discuss how her son is getting along what I should do,” Jess thinks. be something more going on and, the Bronx. Besides, Leigh isn’t very ens them. And she doesn’t let facts, in the school. It is quickly revealed Eventually, Jess is able to without substantiating anything, convincing with that accent. or a lack of them, stand in the way that Sister Aloysius is attempting find her way after all – to find attempts to elicit the support of Once the opening sermon has of her campaign against Father to elicit another accomplice. Ewen the strength to reach out to her Sister James (Tova Smith) who is concluded, the stage is set for the Flynn. plays her role to perfection reveal- family, to find out who her true the student’s inexperienced and dance between Sister Aloysius and Sister James is an interesting mix. ing some interesting secrets in the friends are and to find true love. timid teacher. Sister James, as the former attempts Meek, mild and easily swayed, she process. Through it all, she finds herself. The play opens with Father to dominate and bully the latter has enough backbone to stand up Will Sister Aloysius succeed As a work of prairie literature, Flynn standing alone on stage deliv- into submitting to becoming her against Sister Aloysius’ emotional in her campaign? Is Father Flynn Somewhere Else is sure to stand ering a sermon about doubt. This is spy and unwilling accomplice in onslaught and remain neutral, be- guilty of the sins Sister Aloysius out. Jess Klassen is clearly the where the audience begins to have the defrocking of Father Flynn. coming an excellent foil. imagines him to be? Only atten- powerful product of a very pow- doubts about the play itself. Even Palk does an admirable job of One scene makes this play: Sister dance at the play will answer those erful landscape. Identity; it’s what though the play is set in the Bronx, portraying the intolerant, aging, Aloysius has requested the atten- questions. we all strive for, to know exactly where we stand. And Braun has certainly established herself as an up-and-coming Canadian writer with this book. arts & culture 15 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls… Whether adults read it for nostalgia or escapism, children’s literature is a sure way to satisfy the child in us all il Lustrat io n b y me g an turnbu ll

With a film adaptation of Where the Wild Things Are set to be released later Courtney Schwegel this year, along with the next Harry from getting in on the action. Potter and Twilight films, it seems the Kornelsen said. In this sense, he Volunteer staff “Even though it doesn’t have the added, Peter’s desire to remain a market appeal of Twilight, a lot of fascination adults have with children’s child is really an adult desire to be adults have told me they’ve found literature shows no signs of ceasing youthful themselves and to keep From Harry Potter to Twilight, chil- themselves really enjoying reading their children from growing up too dren’s literature has attracted a lot it,” he said. quickly. of attention in recent years. But it’s Opar sees adult enjoyment of tionship drama and many other of their world for a little while.” In re-reading The Hardy Boys, not just kids creating the craze – children’s literature as a form of es- challenges. Jon Kornelsen, a second-year Kornelsen has also come to see how adults are feeding the frenzy, too. capism in a complex world where “[Children’s] books aren’t that English/education student at the U children’s books can impose certain “We see adults getting just as ex- adults are faced with the realities complicated. People just enjoy read- of W, has his own theory about the gender-role ideals on the young cited [as kids]... around books like of the economic recession, rela- ing them and blocking out the rest appeal of children’s literature. people reading them. Harry Potter,” said Tamara Opar, “I think a lot of it is because it “In The Hardy Boys…the protag- Children’s and Teen Services librar- is this huge nostalgia trip back to onists are portrayed as shining ex- ian at the Millennium Library. All-time faves your childhood,” he said. amples of masculinity based on the She explained that the library The Uniter asks: Which children’s books hold a special place in your heart? Kornelsen has experienced this grounds that they are handsome, even added Twilight, a vampire himself. intelligent, resourceful and athletic. fantasy novel by Stephanie Meyer “I had to read one of the books Reading these books could give marketed for a younger, pre-teen ❝ The Narnia series. I want to ❝ Madeline by Ludwig in the Animorphs series for this boys the impression that in order to and teenage audience, to their read Narnia to my kids…because Bemelmans. I first read this paper I was doing and I ended up be ‘real men’… they must also be “Bestsellers” section recently. The my dad read those to my brother book as a child, and have always reading three just because I enjoyed handsome, smart [and] athletic,” section previously featured only and I when we were young. I think remembered Madeline for her the nostalgia of it.” he said. “So in this way, The Hardy books aimed at adults. there is something very special courage and individuality. Most When it comes to the study Boys series indirectly prescribes a So what is it about children’s about those books…they are one probably from a sense of nostal- of children’s literature, having an certain gender role for boys to live literature that makes it so appeal- of the archetypal fantasy novels.” gia, I read this book with my own adult perspective allows one to up to.” ing for people whose grade-school –Jon Kornelsen, 21, children when they were very see elements of a story that go un- Kornelsen is fascinated by the years are long gone? U of W English/education student young. It was a favorite and we noticed by kids. In writing The perspective he has gained as an Perry Nodelman, a children’s read it often. As an adult, I appre- Hidden Adult, a critical book that adult looking back at his childhood book author and professor emeri- ❝ Berenstain Bears books and ciate and credit the longevity of examines six canonical children’s favorites. tus in the University of Winnipeg’s Dr. Seuss books, which my mom this story for the simply told books, Nodelman explored how “As a kid you don’t necessarily English department, said the ap- used to read me when I was little. story and the images which these texts prescribe children’s be- notice that, but when you are read- peal of reading children’s literature Also classics like The Night Before illustrate Paris.” havior based on adult ideologies. ing those texts [as an adult] you can for him is found in its complex Christmas. The Berenstain Bears –Tamara Opar, “What I realized was that…chil- see how those gender roles influ- simplicities. books usually have a moral to librarian at The Millennium Library dren’s books are the kinds of books enced you.” “I enjoy reading children’s books them that [my son] Stellan can that teach children how to be chil- With a film adaptation of Where because it’s a kind of writing that relate to even though he's only ❝ I’d have to say Love You dren,” he said. the Wild Things Are set to be released seems very simple, but if you allow four. Dr. Seuss books are silly Forever by Robert Munsch be- Kornelsen explained that these later this year, along with the next yourself to think about it…BAM! and funny, so we always have cause it’s such a classic and it’s adult ideologies can be seen in J.M. Harry Potter and Twilight films, it There is all kinds of stuff going on,” some laughs reading those.” so innocent and lovely. It makes Barrie’s classic tale, Peter Pan. The seems the fascination adults have he said. –Katrina Watson, 30, you excited about growing up idea of a child that doesn’t want with children’s literature shows no Nodelman just released his lat- mother and appeals to all age groups be- to grow up is a notion created by signs of ceasing. est book, The Curse of the Evening cause it brings you through adults who long for childhood As Nodelman noted, “There is Eye, which he co-wrote with Carol all the phases of life.” and youth, and who struggle with something magical about some- Matas. The book is part of a series, –Roslyn Graham, 19, the thought of their kids growing thing that appears so simple, but The Ghosthunters, intended for chil- U of W anthropology student older. isn’t.” dren, but that hasn’t stopped adults “All kids want to grow up,” 16 arts & culture The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca Awesome experiments CD REVIEWS HAUNTER Lighthouse/Great Northern 7" Independent Haunter is one of the few local bands who should actu- ally be called ‘indie rock.’ They don’t play that slick, pro- duced, disco-beat-driven trend-rock you hear pouring out of American Apparel, they play music that sounds Stream Lighthouse/Great North- ern by Haunter at www.uniter.ca. like indie rock used to sound like: edgy and blown-out, with a dash of experimentalism. The two tracks on this 7”, Lighthouse/Great Northern and Sugar Melting, are seemingly simple songs, but Haunter do a good job of adorning them with catchy vocal melodies and guitars that go from chiming clarity to snarling, discordant squall at the drop of a hat. Fans of Sonic Youth should definitely check this out. My one complaint: it isn’t loud enough. I bet these guys kill live. Find out for yourself when they release the 7” tomorrow (Friday, Mar. 20) at The Royal Albert. —Curran Faris

THE HAPPY UNFORTUNATE Stand Up or Fall Down Independent

It's hard to imagine a new generation of hip hop kids influ- enced by smooth, '90s-styles, but The Happy Unfortunate I can has dark, dancey, melodic indie rock? Winnipeg's Crosstown Rivals pose with a black kitteh. Stream The World is Mine by The know how to use jazzy beats and neo-soul instrumentals Happy Unfortunate at www.uniter.ca. behind a voice that echoes Camp Lo. At 15 and 19 respec- tively, DJ Envoy and Malcolm-Jay show musical apprecia- Local rockers Crosstown Cote, alumni of The Paperbacks and mem- tion beyond their years, sounding like the offspring of Dead Prez's Mind Sex and A Tribe ber of Boats!. The band’s sound continues to Called Quest's Electric Relaxation. Malcolm-Jay is honest but Envoy's lyrics and tone still Rivals plan a summer evolve and has taken a synth-heavy direction need maturing. As a producer/MC duo I would've liked to hear more collective writing and tour and their next single as of late. arranging like their influences – rhyming together instead of verses that sound like they “It’s a direction that’s been happening more were recorded in separate studios. Songs are short, seemingly unfinished, making it easy less naturally because we got these keyboards to mistake tracks with interludes. I would easily enjoy a live show, martini in hand, be- Curran Faris and it’s like ‘Well fuck, let’s use them,’ and it cause with the right idea The Happy Unfortunate’s potential could lead them somewhere. Listings co-ordinator actually has changed our whole approach on —Crystal Laderas songwriting,” Levesque-Cote said. “They’re expensive, so we might as well While finishing up their debut EP in the sum- put them to use,” Mutch added. CHRIS CARMICHAEL mer of 2008, local rock four-piece Crosstown Levesque-Cote describes the band’s cur- Rivals were feeling less than confident. rent songwriting process as loose and exper- Chris Carmichael “We were still talking about how we imental. Band members will grab whatever Independent couldn’t stand the recordings, and they actu- instrument is lying around and immediately ally turned out alright,” drummer Jon Mutch start writing. All of Crosstown Rivals’ new After years of relentless behind-the-scenes support of said with a laugh over coffee at Second Cup songs have been written this way. Winnipeg’s blues and roots scene, playing alongside the Stream Pop Song by Chris recently. “Most of the time it doesn’t turn out at likes of Big Dave MacLean, The Perpetrator, and Romi Charmichael at www.uniter.ca. Their self-titled EP was recorded by all, but once in a while it does and we’re like, Mayes, singer/songwriter/guitarist/drummer Chris Car- Ricardo Lopez of Oldfolks Home on rela- ‘Wow, that’s so awesome!’” Mutch said. michael has finally released his first solo album. It’s tour tively inexpensive equipment. Guitarist Louis Fans will get a chance to hear the new ma- de force of alt-country chanties sees Carmichael playing Levesque-Cote said the recording didn’t terial when the band releases a brand new all the instruments, save for a little help from pedal steel player Bill Western on the mel- come alive until the mastering process. single, Exits, in the next few months. The ancholic Bitter Till the End and backing vocals from Joanna Miller and Romi Mayes on a “The mastering helped a lot and Ricardo single, along with four remixes, will be re- couple of tracks. Right from the opening track, Nowhere, you can tell the album is going really invested so much time into mixing it leased digitally with the increasingly popular somewhere and right from the start it’s strong and doesn’t falter. This long-awaited solo and making it better because there’s no way pay-what-you-want price tag. record from one of Winnipeg’s most sought after session players is a welcome addition he was happy with how it was sounding at Next on the Crosstown Rivals’ agenda is to the city’s country scene. first,” Levesque-Cote said. “The great thing another summer tour and some more studio about working with him is that he added so time. But don’t expect a full-length album. —Brandon Bertram much to the songs – he added back-up vo- Levesque-Cote said the band would much cals and effects on the guitars…it turned out rather release singles and EPs. great.” “Why would you blow all that money on FAUNTS With a single tour and EP under their an album that no one’s going to buy any- Feel.Love.Thinking.Of. belts, Crosstown Rivals are already begin- ways? It doesn’t matter how popular you are, Friendly Fire Recordings ning to turn some heads with their dark, nobody buys CDs anymore,” he said, before It may not be very rock-critic of me, but all you have dancey and melodic indie rock. The band adding with a laugh: “It’s all about getting to do is write one good song and I’m your fan for life. receives regular airplay on Winnipeg’s 92.9 huge on the Blogosphere.” That’s how I feel about musicians like Mike Petkau KICK FM station and have charted on sev- (Dinosaur), Paul Bergman (Fallow Field) and The Pets eral university stations across Canada. The Check out Curran's blog at http://uniter.ca/ (Vika), and it’s how I feel about Edmonton’s Faunts band was surprised to see their name on the blog for more info. and their song Will You Tell Me When, from 2004’s High charts, to say the least. Expectations/Low Results. Since that song and CD, the “We got the top spot in two or three towns band has put out three other releases. The latest, Feel.Love.Thinking.Of., completes their in like…St. Catherine’s where we played a See Crosstown Rivals Tuesday, Mar. 24 at The Park transformation from a dreamy shoegaze project to an electro-pop outfit. With standout show to only the bar staff but we were num- Theatre (698 Osborne St.) ber one on their university station,” said The band is opening for Montreal-based, Polaris songs like the driving title track and the sprawling Alarmed/Lights, Feel.Love.Thinking.Of. Prize-nominated rockers Plants and Animals Mutch. is a stellar album. It’ll be interesting to see where Faunts go from here. Crosstown Rivals was originally formed by Advance tickets are $13 at Ticketmaster —Aaron Epp vocalist/guitarist Cody Seller, bassist Anthony Doors open at 8 p.m. Kowalczyk and Mutch in 2007. After a brief Visit www.myspace.com/crosstownrivalswinnipeg break up, the band enlisted Louis Levesque- THE NEW STANDARDS Rock and Roll Princess Records For a cover song to be any good, a band’s got to put its own spin on it. Minneapolis’ The New Standards do just that on Rock and Roll, a collection of 10 covers. Made up of singer-pianist Chan Poling, vibraphone player Steve Roehm and bassist John Munson (of Semisonic fame), The New Standards apply their jazz, rock and pop chops to classics like Lou Reed’s Rock and Roll and The Clash’s London Calling, as well as (relatively) recent hits like Outkast’s Hey Ya and Britney Spears’ Toxic. The idea here is that the pop music of the last 40 or 50 years are our “new standards,” the songs we’ll be listening to and singing for years to come. Whether or not that’s true remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: Rock and Roll is a fun record that will make you revisit some of your favourite songs.

—Aaron Epp arts & culture 17 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter Youth of the nation In communities filled with despair, Northern Manitoba rockers Lost Priority hope their music will help

Aaron Epp Arts & culture editor

Winnipeg musicians talk of form- ing bands because there’s nothing else to do in the city during the win- Lost Priority, a ter, but in Wasagamack, Manitoba, rock band made there’s really nothing to do. up of four Oji- Located 600 kilometres north Crees, used their of Winnipeg, the Oji-Cree reserve music to stay out has a population of about 1,600. of trouble while It’s from this community that growing up on rock four-piece Lost Priority has the Wasagamack emerged with its debut CD, All reserve in That We Are. Northern Speaking by phone from his Manitoba. home on the reserve, 23-year-old photo by singer-guitarist Jonathan Harper Richard Knott said that the group formed in 2000 as a way to escape boredom, in- on their music led Harper and nities like Wasagamack. ten to the young people, Harper While the situation sometimes spired by mainstream nu-metal acts his bandmates – guitarist Stanley “There’s been a lot of suicides said, things might be different. makes him feel helpless, Harper like Korn, Limp Bizkit and Papa Mcdougall, bassist J.R. Harper and in Wasagamack and the surround- “[The young people] have lots to wants to make a difference with Roach. Playing in a band soon be- drummer Mark Harper – to clean ing communities because the au- say. I know they want more stuff in Lost Priority. came an effort to escape the drugs, up their act. thorities are so ignorant of what’s the community. There’s an arena, “What I’m trying to do with my alcohol, gangs and violence its All That We Are is the band’s first happening related to alcohol and but it’s not being maintained; music is portray how I feel, and members grew up surrounded by. CD. The eight-song, 39-minute disc drugs,” Harper said. “Most of the there’s a school, there’s a gym, but so hopefully they can relate to the “I’m not scared to say we also ex- was recorded during March 2008 time I hear that people feel they our school was almost burned music and the lyrics and not feel perimented with drugs and alcohol, at StrongFront A/V Productions in aren’t being helped in any way – down by a youth and now there’s alone.” and just being negative,” Harper Winnipeg. there’s nothing for them in the no activities there.” said of the group’s junior high and While the band’s sound hasn’t community and they have no op- Ultimately, Harper says, what high school years. “Stealing, that changed much from the influences tions to move somewhere else, so the young people want is to not  All That We Are is available in stores was what we considered fun at that they imitated when starting out, it’s that isolation really affects them.” feel alone. and online now time, ‘cause we had nothing really the lyrics that are the most com- He’s only seen things get worse “I think what they would want  Visit www.lost-priority.com and www. myspace.com/lostpriority to do.” pelling. Harper hopes the band’s in recent years – more drugs, more is a place where they could feel safe, Eventually, marriage, the birth of music will be a voice for aboriginal gangs and more violence. If the el- basically, and relate to other youth their children and a renewed focus youth who are ignored in commu- ders in the community would lis- or individuals.” The banger’s embrace C

O years and their strongest to date. is honest, original, challenging R Amidst the pre- FA Y With the addition of ex-Giant Sons and exciting – music that makes L V packaged, over- O guitarist Dave “The Beaver” Guillas, a 25-year-old man such as myself Hannah, bassist Todd Kowalksi want to careen through the mosh produced musical and drummer Jord Samolesky have pit like a kamikaze pilot and sing once again expanded the bound- along with every word at the top of sludge on shelves aries of their sound without com- his lungs. promising their artistic or political So deep inside this jaded music today, thank God, vision. lover’s bones, it feels good to know The fast songs are even faster, the that Propagandhi are still out there. Allah, Buddha choruses will stick in your head for Even though my complexion has weeks, the chord changes are more improved (somewhat) and I don’t or whoever, for progressive than ever and the lyr- skateboard anymore, I’m still fuck- Propagandhi ics are some of their smartest yet. ing stoked. Listen to tracks like Dear Coach’s Corner or Potemkin City Limits if Catch Curran in the pit when you don’t believe me. Propagandhi play The Garrick Amidst the pre-packaged, over- Centre Mar. 20-21. Visit www.pro- Curran Faris produced sludge on the shelves pagandhi.com. Listings co-ordinator today, the last vestige for music lov- ers are artists who completely dis- regard commercial trends or genre With the release of Propagandhi’s trappings and create music that new record, Supporting Caste, and their impending CD release con- needed from a band in Grade 8: litical lyrics resonated deeply with certs, I can’t help but mirror singer- speed, melody and an unflinch- me. 95.9 FM CKUW Campus/Community guitarist Chris Hannah’s sentiment ing, articulate middle finger raised Fast-forward 13 years. Punk rock Radio Top 10 CD – Albums on The Banger’s Embrace, the 11th at government, religion and sexist, is no longer an underground secret; March 11 – 17, 2009 track on the new disc: “We were racist homophobes. The combina- it’s a commercial force. If punk died ! = Local content * = Canadian Content fucking stoked unlike we’d been tion of musical ferocity and po- in the '80s, mainstream music gi- since we were pimpled, pubeless ants exhumed its fettered corpse in TW artist recording label teens.” I remember the 2000s and put it on display for 1 !Various Artists Uncovered CKUW Although Hannah is waxing being a pimpled, the youth of today, replacing all the 2 !Propagandhi Supporting Caste Smallman un-poetic about thrash legends danger, urgency and rebellion with 3 *Neko Case Middle Cyclone Anti Sacrifice, his lyric perfectly captures pubeless teen, the same old rock ‘n’ roll detritus: the adolescent excitement I am feel- girls, heartbreak, dancing, partying. 4 *Mother Mother Oh My Last Gang ing about Propagandhi’s return. skateboarding Aging scenesters shook their heads 5 *Bicycles Oh No It’s Love Fuzzy Logic I remember being a pimpled, during lunch at in disbelief as studded belts flew off 6 Morrisey Years of Refusal Polydor pubeless teen, skateboarding dur- the shelves at the mall and the term 7 *Hawksley Workman Los Manlicious Isadora ing lunch at Gordon Bell and blast- Gordon Bell and ‘faux hawk’ entered the English lex- 8 *Jeff Healey Mess of Blues Stony Plain ing the group’s 1996 sophomore blasting Less Talk icon. And so it goes. 9 Guy Davis Sweetheart Like You Redhouse release Less Talk More Rock on tape. Enter Supporting Caste, 10 !Various Artists Northern Faction 4 Balanced Propagandhi had everything I More Rock on tape Propagandhi’s fifth record in 15 18 arts & culture The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca Arts Briefs Compiled by Jonathan Dyck Aboriginal cartoonist drew humour and Aaron Epp

AN ELECTRONIC DON JUAN More proof computer nerds have always Exhibit celebrates had trouble getting women: The world’s first computer was used to generate love the work of poetry, Telegraph.co.uk reported Mar. 10. Everett Soop, who In 1952, desperate to test the capabilities of Mark 1, 'the Baby' (the computer built lampooned the Left: "The professional board member at Manchester University), a scientist – why work" is part of a new exhibition named Christopher Strachey devised a corrupt, the racist at Gallery 1C03 showcasing the work of software program by entering hundreds artist Everett Soop. of romantic verbs and nouns into the and the ignorant Below: "Trust me the Indian Act is intact." new machine. Mark 1 sifted through the database to create a stream of light- Noni Brynjolson hearted verse. Strachey and his team would print off Volunteer staff the computer’s best efforts and use them to try and pick up girls. Just kidding — they posted them on a notice board in Faced with life in a wheelchair, art- their office. ist Everett Soop used his sharp wit David Ward, a German computer to overcome the many disadvan- ‘archaeologist,’ unearthed the program tages in his life. Soop, who suffered while researching Strachey’s papers at from muscular dystrophy, created the Bodleian Library, Oxford. cartoons that combined a dark hu- mour with his advocacy of aborigi- OODLES OF DOODLES nal rights, and later, rights for the A scientist in England has found that doodling helps keep the brain on task, disabled. NPR.org reported Mar. 12. A sample of Soop’s work is pre- Jackie Andrade, a professor of sented in Gallery 1C03’s Everett psychology at the University of Plymouth, Soop: Journalist, Cartoonist, Activist. recently published a study on doodling Also included in the exhibition, Minister John Munro hides a gar- ness and humour that makes this It is the contrast in Applied Cognitive Psychology. The which was circulated by the Nickle bage can containing the Indian Act exhibition so valuable, and gives function of doodling, she found, is to Arts Museum of Calgary, are fam- from the sight of a stereotypically Soop’s work lasting political rel- between darkness provide just enough cognitive stimulation ily photos, an election poster from stoic chief. evance. His cartoons display a and humour during an otherwise boring task to prevent his several years in politics and a Soop caricatured both white and uniquely Canadian (specifically, ab- the mind from taking the more radical large photo of St. Paul’s, the resi- native politicians in an equal ruth- original) sense of humour and speak that makes this step of totally opting out of the situation dential school he attended. less manner. In “The professional to the political issues that directly exhibition so and running off into a fantasy world. While it’s a limited look at an ex- board member – why work,” for affected him and his community. Andrade tested her theory by playing a tremely prolific artist – Soop made example, a smug looking chief is The cantankerous cartoonist valuable long, boring tape of a telephone message thousands of cartoons during his kissed in suggestive places by his once faced becoming, in his words, to a collection of people, only half of lifetime – the exhibition is an en- associates. “vegetable Soop.” Instead, he cre- whom had been given a doodling task. tertaining sample of the work of an While his cartoons burned those ated a huge body of work lam- After the tape ended she quizzed them artist whose national significance who abused their responsibilities to pooning the corrupt, the racist and and found that the doodlers remembered has only recently been recognized. society, Soop himself was not a he- the ignorant, with an incredible about 29 per cent more information than Soop, who died in 2001, grew roic figure. As members of his fam- amount of ability. the nondoodlers. up on the Blood Indian Reserve in ily pointed out in the exhibition R.I.P., LAS VEGAS ART MUSEUM Alberta. In the 1970s he began to catalogue, he was short-tempered, Everett Soop: Journalist, Cartoonist, Who goes to Las Vegas for the work as a cartoonist for the Kainai struggled with alcoholism and had Activist is on display until Apr. 4. museums? You guessed it: no one. News, one of the country’s first ab- to be looked after constantly to- On Thursday, Mar. 19, Gallery Apparently not even people who live original news organizations. It was wards the end of his life. 1C03 co-presents Humour in there go to museums. The Las Vegas Sun here that he developed his own Several works expose the Indigenous Cultures at 6:30 p.m. reported recently that the Las Vegas Art unique style of political satire. darker side of Soop’s life. In in Convocation Hall at the U of Museum closed indefinitely last month One particularly poignant draw- “Discrimination,” scratchy pen W. The evening includes stand-up because it was broke. After 59 years, there was no endowment, no public funding and ing, “Trust me the Indian Act is in- marks depict a shadowy figure comedy, storytelling, critical think- little community involvement. tact,” deals with the debate during next to the question, “Have you ing and laughter inspired by the life Its four-level, 55,000-square-foot the 1980s surrounding the relation- ever experienced the humilia- and work of Soop. This event is free building opened in 2003 and houses ship between Aboriginal People tion of unemployment because of and open to the public. Visit www. 1,900 works, including modern art, and Canada’s newly amended discrimination?” tinyurl.com/1c03soop. contemporary art and landscape photos constitution. In it, Indian Affairs It is the contrast between dark- of the American West. COLBERT TO CONQUER SPACE? Call it a giant leap for comedian Stephen Colbert, whose name is leading an online NASA poll to get a new room Going back to the prairies in the international space station named after him. Co urtes CBC.ca reported that he’s beating New book explores in the Post-9/11 World,” an arti- been permanently quarantined

“Serenity” by just over 16,000 votes. Other o y cle by Providence College profes- within city limits.) American rooms on the space station are prairie literature Jo f sor Michael J. Gilmour, analyzes Although Sorensen intended on called things like “Unity,” “Harmony” and hn the lyrics on Young’s 2005 album, not pursuing a particular theme, L and asks: Are the o “Destiny.” Clearly, Colbert’s name would n g Prairie Wind. she said that as the project un- be in perfect company. prairies paradise? hurst “While his criticism of the Bush folded, she found a lot of writers According to the contest rules, “voting administration became more overt were expressing concerns about the results are not binding on NASA and NASA in the next album [2006’s Living relationship prairie-dwellers have reserves the right to ultimately select a Samuel Swanson With War], Young’s criticism is with the land. name” in keeping with its best interests. Volunteer more subtle in Prairie Wind,” “When people were trying to CBC.ca also reported that last Gilmour said. “He returns lyrically get settlers on the prairies, they September, “Comedy Central said it will to the prairies… symbolically to sold the prairies as a place that was digitize the comedian’s DNA” and send There’s a plethora of prairie litera- the garden of Eden.” like Eden. A lot of settlers got here it to the International Space Station’s ture in your local bookstore, but This, of course, ties in to the and were quite disappointed, and “Immortality Drive” which contains human DNA, a history of humanity’s has academia done its part in terms name of the book, which recalls I think a lot of our literature has greatest achievements and some personal of appreciating and interpreting the garden mentioned in The Bible been dealing with the fallout from messages. that body of work? Sue Sorensen where the first man and woman that. doesn’t think so. Former University of Winnipeg English lived. “Is this a beautiful, pastoral, life- CHRIS BROWN PULLS OUT OF Sorensen is the editor of West of “[It’s] meant to ask us to reflect giving place, or is it a snow and KIDS’ CHOICE AWARDS professor Sue Sorensen has edited a new Eden, a collection of essays and ar- book exploring prairie literature. on whether this place that we live wind-blasted grasshopper-ridden Kids’ Choice Awards? Whatever ticles about the writing coming out in, the prairies, is like a beauti- place?” happened to the Teen Choice Awards? of the prairies. ful garden,” Sorensen said. “Is it a Wasn’t that young enough? Why should kids get their own award show? They “There’s lots of prairie literature beautiful paradise garden like Eden Sorensen will launch West of have parents to make decisions for them being written by prominent prai- Grove and Margaret Laurence. Two – and sometimes it seems like that. Eden: Essays on Canadian Prairie — after all, they certainly don’t need Chris rie writers, I didn’t see that other of the questions Sorensen wanted Or is it somewhere just to the west Literature at McNally Robinson Brown’s influence. people like me, academics, were the scholars to address were: How of Eden?” Grant Park on Monday, Mar. 23 Most recently Brown has drawn attention following through with our end important is realism in prairie lit- While people are told not to at 8 p.m. The event will include a for his arrest after he allegedly attacked of the deal, which I find odd,” said erature? And, how influential is the judge a book by its cover, it’s hard to discussion with contributors David his girlfriend, Rihanna. The now infamous Sorensen, an English professor at landscape? miss the book’s distinctly regional Arnason, Dennis Cooley and Gaby pop star has removed his name from the Canadian Mennonite University. The collection includes an cover art. It is an image by Regina Divay. Kids’ Choice Awards voting ballots. In the book, 17 scholars reflect essay on singer-songwriter Neil artist David Thauberger and it car- According to CBC.ca, Brown had been on well-known prairie writers such Young. “Going Back To The ries a profound ironic realism that nominated for favourite male singer and as Rudy Wiebe, Frederick Philip Prairies: Neil Young’s Heterotopia many will appreciate (unless you’ve favourite song for Kiss Kiss at the Mar. 28 awards show on Nickelodeon. Arts & Culture 19 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter Developing a community of filmmakers Mosaic Women’s comes to fruition this Sunday, money to make their films, as well “These voices need to be Mar. 22 when Caroline Monnet as some money to pay for their liv- Film Project gives and Columpa Bobb screen their ing expenses during the filmmak- heard and we felt there was an underrepresented films and give an artist talk at ing process. underrepresentation in the film Cinematheque. For Bobb, who has spent the voices the chance “These voices need to be heard last 21 years in theatre, the program world just in general." and we felt there was an underrep- happened at the perfect time. –Mike Maryniuk, Winnipeg Film Group to make a movie resentation in the film world just in “I’ve always been interested in general. So, we thought this would getting into film, but I don’t have a be a good idea,” Mike Maryniuk, lot of my own time – work takes a Aaron Epp production programs co-ordinator lot of time,” she said. “I just thought to do,” she said. collaborate on it and that’s how you Arts & culture editor at The Winnipeg Film Group, said [this] was the perfect opportunity Both women are looking for- get involved,” he said. of the project. to take to make a short film and, ward to making more films in the “It inevitably helps develop a The Winnipeg Film Group cre- first of all, see if I could do it.” future. Bobb is hoping her next community, or broaden the exist- Check the listings at your local ated the production award and For Monnet, whose first film, an project will be a collaboration with ing community, of filmmakers in mainstream movie theatre and mentorship program in collabo- award-winning documentary made some of the youth she works with Winnipeg.” you’d be hard-pressed to find a fe- ration with Mentoring Artists for with the National Film Board called at the Manitoba Theatre for Young male director behind any of them. Women’s Art (MAWA) to support 360 Degrees, is currently doing the People. The Mosaic Women’s Film Project The world of independent film- the development of two women of festival circuit, the program offered That’s the sort of thing Maryniuk screening and artist talk takes making is no different, but a new aboriginal or diverse cultural back- complete creative control. said is encouraging to see. place this Sunday, Mar. 22 at initiative by The Winnipeg Film grounds to make a three to five- “The Winnipeg Film Group was “[Monnet and Bobb] almost Cinematheque (100 Arthur St.) at 2 Group aims to change that. minute film. really, really supportive in my cre- turned into mentors to other emerg- p.m. Admission is free. Visit www. Launched in the fall of 2008, Monnet and Bobb were chosen ative process and made sure I had ing filmmakers, and that’s the cycle winnipegfilmgroup.com. the Mosaic Women’s Film Project through a juried process and given full liberty in doing what I wanted – one person does a project, others Winning streak Co urtes y o y Wil f f Lava ll ee

National Aboriginal Achievement Award winner Chelsea Lavallee is presented with a $10,000 cheque from Roberta Jamieson, president and CEO of the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation.

Manitoban Metis finds time to volunteer, teaching the tradi- tional Métis jig to youth in her community, teen continues to win helps out with the Métis and Saskatoon festivals, and works as a youth reporter for awards for celebrating the Manitoba Métis Federation Southwest Region Youth Network. her heritage “Living Métis is how I live,” Lavallee said. “It's how I was raised and it's how Matt Preprost I celebrate. I live in a Métis community Volunteer staff and they live Métis too. I just help carry it on.” Lavallee says her win is important and Chelsea Lavallee is no stranger to winning hopes it will inspire other aboriginal youth awards for the passion she displays in pro- to get involved in promoting their heritage moting her Métis culture. and culture. In 2005, Lavallee was crowned Métis “It's important because you have to Miss Teen Manitoba. She’s also been the keep your traditions going for future gen- recipient of the 2006 National Métis erations so it won't go away,” Lavallee Youth Role Model Award, the 2007 said. Manitoba Aboriginal Youth Achievement In honour of her accomplishments, Award and the 2007 National Aboriginal Lavallee received a medallion, a glass tro- Role Model Award, presented to her by phy and $10,000, which she said she’s Governor General Michaëlle Jean. going to use to pay for school. Lavallee But now Lavallee can proudly say that is awaiting her acceptance letter from the she’s the youngest aboriginal to receive a University of Manitoba. She doesn’t know coveted National Aboriginal Achievement what she wants to do yet, but will be test- Award. And all it took was doing the ing the waters of University 1 classes. things she loves. “I’m just going to go to school and find “It's a really big honour because I'm get- out what I want to do and from there we'll ting recognized for doing the things I love see happens.” doing,” Lavallee said over the phone from Lavallee’s father, Wilf, is understand- her country home. “I’m really happy that I ably proud. was recognized for things that I've accom- “She's being recognized for things she plished in my life. It's really special.” likes to do,” he said. “She promotes things Lavallee, a 17-year-old student from St. that unify the community and celebrate Ambroise, was one of three Manitobans who we are as Métis people. Its not that to receive a 2009 National Aboriginal she's doing anything out of the ordinary, Achievement Award, a celebration of ac- she’s just really involved. The opportunity complishments by members of Canada’s for her to be recognized for that is really aboriginal community. special.” Lavallee was the recipient of the Special Wilf hopes she cherishes her win. Youth Award, for her outstanding contri- “Having the opportunity to meet with butions to the community promoting her other recipients is probably a once-in-a- Métis heritage. lifetime opportunity for us,” he said. “It's Lavallee is an active member of her small not everyday you get to meet other aborig- community, just 94 kilometres northwest inal people that have done so well and are of Winnipeg. Aside from square-dancing being recognized.” with the St. Ambroise Youth Steppers, she Concert? Art show? Volunteer opportunity? Community event? Want to see your event in The Uniter? 20 LISTINGS Listings Co-o r d i na t o r : Cu r r an Fa r i s E-mail your listing to [email protected]. The deadline for all listings is Wednesday. The Uniter is published every Thursday, E-m a i l : Listings@u n i t e r .c a The Uniter March 19, 2009 so send your listings 8 days prior to the issue you want your listing to appear in. It’s free. It’s easy. Ph o n e : 786-9497 Fa x : 783-7080 at 789-1431 / e-mail at [email protected] or Tricia BUSH CAMP A panel discussion about the life and work of CONCERTS GALLERIES Seymour at 258-2951/ e-mail [email protected]. the late Marvin Francis, Mar. 19, 7 p.m. at McNally Robinson Grant Park. PROPAGANDHI With Putrescence, KEN mode, Kursk, CRE8ERY 125 Adelaide. Broken Riddle Factory: Phase II, MAN TO MAN Presented by Klinic Community Health Cen- Mar. 20 and 21 at the Garrick. Tickets are $15 from www. featuring School of Art Thesis work by Matea Radic, Karen tre, The Man to Man project is intended to raise awareness DON DOMANSKI AND SUE SORENSEN Poetry readings in ticketworkshop.com, Into The Music and Music Trader. Cull and Ten Yetman. There will be an opening reception about depression, stress and mental health in men. The celebration of World Poetry Day, Mar. 21, 7 p.m. at McNally Doors open at 7 p.m. All proceeds go to The Winnipeg Haiti on Mar. 20 from 7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. project involves presentations aimed to help participants Robinson Grant Park. Solidarity Committee and Sage House. The Mar. 20 show identify and understand the causes and effects of depres- FORUM ART INSTITUE 120 Eugenie. Garden Sculpture SUE SORENSEN Launch of West of Eden: Essays on Cana- is sold out. sion. For more information, contact Curt Sparkes at 784- workshop with Dianne Johnson, Mar. 22. To register for 4015 or [email protected]. dian Prairie Literature, Mar. 23, 8 p.m. at McNally Robinson HAUNTER 7” release party With Electric Candles, Mar. 20 at 15-and-up art classes call 235-1069 or visit www.foru- Grant Park. SECRET POSTCARDS Wolseley Family Place is hosting a the Albert. Tickets are available at the door and the show martinstitute.ca. CAROL SHEILDS SYMOPOSIUM SAMPLER Featuring a panel will start after the Propagandhi concert. secret postcard event called Insight Out. You are invited GALLERY 1C03 University of Winnipeg. Everett Soop: to submit your secret to Wolseley Family Place on a home- discussion titled, What Men Aren’t Told, Mar. 24, 8 p.m. at VITAMINSFORYOU With Mike B. Mar. 20 at Lo Pub. Tickets Journalist, Cartoonist, Activist, open until Apr. 4. Live made or reconstructed postcard. One secret per postcard, McNally Robinson Grant Park. are available at the door. performance by Cameroonian Artist Issa Nyaphaga on each postcard must be anonymous and creativity is wel- MARJORIE AGOSIN Poet, critic and human rights activist Mar. 25 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Humor in Indigenous Cultures, comed. Your secret will be shared with the public at our BONNIE ‘PRINCE’ BILLY Mar. 21 at the Pyramid. Tickets are Marjorie Agosin will read from a selection of her work, co-presented with the University of Winnipeg’s Aboriginal community art event which takes place on Apr. 14 to 19 at $20 from Ticketmaster and the show starts at 8 p.m. Mar. 25, 7 p.m. at McNally Robinson Grant Park. Governance Program and Urban Shaman Gallery, on Mar. Artbeat studio. All secrets can be sent to Wolseley Family CIRCLE PRODUCTIONS Two Year Anniversary Show with The 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Convocation Hall at the Uni- Place, Lower Level 691 Wolseley Ave., R3G 1C3. Graceful Mutiny, Beat Kids, Fame, Crisis Jane and Aurora versity of Manitoba. LEGAL ISSUES The Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre FILM Creek, Mar. 21 at the Church Basement. Doors open at 7 GALLERY LACOSSE 169 Lilac. Kenneth Gordon’s Canada: A presents Legal Issues for Wise Women, a four part p.m. All ages welcome. Lifetime Journey and Enduring Legacy, on display until workshop series for women experiencing legal issues CINEMATHEQUE 100 Arthur. Mar. 19: Doubt (7 p.m.), R.I.P. A MDW APPAREL First Anniversary Show with Seventh Sin, Mar. 28. and concerns. Workshops will provide women with basic Remix Manifesto (9 p.m.); Mar. 20: R.I.P. A Remix Manifesto (7 p.m.), Live Cinema Performance and Electronics with Dryrun, Flatlined and The Ceasefire, Mar. 21 at the Park GRAFFITI GALLERY 109 Higgins. Just For Kicks, works by legal information and resources. The workshops are: Mar. Theatre. Tickets are $10 at the door. 16: Roles and Duties of the Executor and Mar. 23: Fam- Karl Lemieux (9 p.m), JCVD (11 p.m.); Mar. 22: The Mosaic Canadian Tattoo artists on shoes, open Mar. 14 until Apr. Women’s Film Project – Screening and Artist Talk (2 p.m.), 30. ily Dynamics in Estate Planning/Rights of Beneficiaries. THE REAL MCKENZIES With Trousermouth, Mar. 21 at the Workshops will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1150-A Waverley R.I.P. A Remix Manifesto (4:30 p.m.), JCVD (7 p.m.); Mar. 25: Albert. Tickets are $15 from www.ticketworkshop.com and MAWA 611 Main. Over The Top art auction and cupcake Street. Childcare, Bus tickets and healthy snacks will be R.I.P. A Remix Manifesto (7 p.m.), JCVD (9 p.m.). the show starts at 9 p.m. party, Mar. 15 from 2 to 5 p.m. Critical reading group with provided. Pre-registration is required by calling 477-1123. CANNES LIONS The World’s Greatest Commercials return GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS Mar. 23 at the Folk Exchange. The Sigrid Dahle, Mar. 22. to the Winnipeg Art Gallery from Mar. 16 to 24. Screen show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are sold out. times are 7 and 9 p.m. and tickets are available from the PLANTS AND ANIMALS With The Crosstown Rivals, Mar. 24 WAG and Ticketmaster outlets. at The Park Theatre. Tickets are $13 from Ticketmaster, the INTERNATIONAL JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Presented by the Park Theatre and the WECC. Rady Jewish Community Centre and The Asper Founda- £ The Uniter’s Top 5 events • tion, the 2009 Winnipeg International Jewish Film Festival MUSIC runs from Mar. 18 to 24. The festival will be held in the by curran faris Berney Theatre at the Asper Jewish Community Campus. Individual tickets are $9 and multiple passes are available. Pop, Rock & Indie For more information, tickets and a detailed film schedule,  PROPAGANDHI With Putrescence, KEN mode, Kursk, Mar. 20 and 21 at the visit www.radyjcc.com. ACADEMY FOOD DRINKS MUSIC 437 Stradbrook. Mar. 19: Garrick. Do I really need to tell you why you should be going to see Propagandhi? Get Saturns Pattern, The Eardrums, Sit Down Tracy; Mar. 20: UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG FILM FESTIVAL Admissions are Voldis and the Melodicas, The Benderenos; Mar. 21: Balti- your tickets now! Tickets are $15 from www.ticketworkshop.com, Into The Music and being accepted by the University of Winnipeg Department more Road; Mar. 24: Open Mic with Melissa Plett; Mar. 25: Music Trader. Doors open at 7 p.m. All proceeds go to The Winnipeg Haiti Solidarity of Theatre and Film for their annual Student Film Festival. The Ministers of Cool. Committee and Sage House. The Mar. 20 show is sold out. To be eligible, the film must be made by students attend- THE CAVERN 112 Osborne. Mar. 19: Jam Nite with Route 59; ing a post-secondary institution in Manitoba. The deadline Mar. 20: Bad Country with Mayor Matt Allen & His Little  HAUNTER 7” release party With Electric Candles, Mar. 20 at the Albert. Local is Apr. 6 and the festival runs from Apr. 22 to 24. For more Buddies; Mar. 21: The Upsides, Greg Crowe, The Scarlet shoe-gazers release their debut 7” record. That’s right kids, a record, like your parents information visit www.theatre.uwinnipeg.ca or contact [email protected]. Union; Mar. 23: The Vinyl Drip with James Brown; Mar. used to listen to. Tickets are available at the door and the show will start after the 24: Soul Nite with The Junk Puppies; Mar. 25: Trivia and Propagandhi concert. Cavernaoke. ON CAMPUS KING’S HEAD PUB & EATERY 120 King. Sunday: All The King’s  BONNIE ‘PRINCE’ BILLY Mar. 21 at the Pyramid. The bearded majesty of dusty Men; Monday: The Magician; Tuesday: Comedy Night; folk-rock makes his Winnipeg debut. Don’t miss the boat. Tickets are $20 from FREE MOVIE EcoPia will host a free screening of The 11th Wednesday: Little Boy Boom; Thursday: Joey Landreth Ticketmaster and the show starts at 8 p.m. Band. Hour and a free lunch, Mar. 19 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Bullman Centre. A discussion of the film will follow. LO PUB 330 Kennedy. Mar. 19: Goodform; Mar. 20: Vitamins  VITAMINSFORYOU With Mike B. Mar. 20 at Lo Pub. Feel like dancing? Head down 4 U, Mike B. Mar. 21: John Smith; Mar. 25: United Steel Work- to Lo Pub and shake it with Vitaminsforyou. Tickets are available at the door. SPEED MENTORING The UWSA and the University of Win- ers of Montreal. nipeg Alumni Association present a speed mentoring session, designed to give students a chance to mingle PYRAMID CABARET 176 Fort. Mar. 21: Bonnie Prince Billy.  PLANTS AND ANIMALS With The Crosstown Rivals, Mar. 24 at The Park and network with graduates before starting their post- Theatre. Indie fans can rejoice with a line-up like this. Tickets are $13 from Country, Folk & Jazz grad job search. The session takes place Mar. 19, 5 p.m. Ticketmaster, the Park Theatre and the WECC. in the Bullman Centre. To register for this event, contact GORDIE’S COFFEE HOUSE 127 Coburg. Mar. 19: Longbear [email protected]. MCNALLY ROBINSON GRANT PARK Mar. 20: The Reverse SIMPLICITY SESSIONS The Simplicity Practice and Re- Trio; Mar. 21: Three Blind Mice. source Centre present a series of workshops promoting MCNALLY ROBINSON POLO PARK Mar. 20: Marie-Josie Clem- simple living: Simplicity Circle II, Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. ent. beginning Mar. 24 at Mary Jane’s Cooking School; Simplic- ity Sessions: Mindfulness 1,2,3, Mar. 24 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. TIMES CHANGE(d) HIGH & LONESOME CLUB Main & St. Mary. PAVILLION GALLERY MUSEUM Assiniboine Park. Tides & at R.A. Steen Community Club. Mar. 20 – 21: Righteous Ike & The Jakebrakes; Mar. 22: Blues Totems: Phillips in the West, watercolours and woodcuts LITERARY Jam with Big Dave McLean. METIS ABORIGINAL GOVERNANCE CONFERENCE The Univer- by Walter J.Phillips. The exhibit is on display until May 3. sity of Winnipeg is hosting a national conference entitled, Dance & Hip-Hop PLATFORM CENTRE FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC + DIGITAL ARTS 121- VAGINA MONOLOGUES A group of Winnipeg women will Métis Aboriginal Governance: Charting a Path Forward, 100 Arthur. Art and Cold Cash. This multimedia installation perform selections from Eve Ensler’s work Mar. 20 at 7 from Mar. 24 to 26. The conference is open to the public, HIFI CLUB 108 Osborne. Mar. 19: D.I.M. (Boyz Noize); Mar. 21: p.m. and Mar. 21 at 3 and 7 p.m., at Aqua Books. Tickets are DJ Babu, Bundown. examines the introduction of capitalism into northern but interested parties need to register at www.uwinnipeg. communities. The installation is open until Apr 4. available from Aqua Books and by contacting tvmwinni- ca/index/metis-aboriginal-governance-index. The confer- OZZY’S 160 Osborne. Wednesdays: Soho Trash DJs: Punk, [email protected]. Ninety per cent of the ticket sales will be ence is devoted to exploring creative ways to implement Glam, New Wave, Power Pop; Thursdays: Readymix Dance URBAN SHAMAN GALLERY 203-290 McDermot. Winnipeg donated to Osborne House. For more information, contact the rights of Indigenous peoples and will feature a number Party: Indie-Dance, Electro, Brit-Pop, New Wave, Mash-Ups, Hydro, drawings by Ian August, open until Apr. 25. Also [email protected]. of keynote speakers. For detailed information visit www. '80s/'90s, and more; Saturdays: Modernized. open is …welcome…a history in two parts by Steven Loft, uwinnipeg.ca/index/metis-aboriginal-governance-index. running from Mar. 13 to Apr. 25. WORLD POETRY DAY Prairie Fire Press and the Winnipeg Punk & Metal International Writers Festival present readings by Don WAYNE ARTHUR GALLERY 186 Provencher. Night and Day/ Domanski and Sue Sorensen, Mar. 21 at McNally Robinson THE ROYAL ALBERT 91 Albert. Mar. 20: Haunter, Electric Norris Lake, paintings by Annette Lowe and photographs Grant Park. This event is free to all and begins at 7 p.m. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Candles; Mar. 21 The Real McKenzies, Trousermouth. by Robert Lowe, on display until Apr. 1. SHORT FICTION CONTEST The Writers' Collective and the THE ZOO 160 Osborne. Mar. 20: Ripperz; Mar. 21: Left Side WINNIPEG ART GALLERY 300 Memorial. The Painter as Winnipeg Free Press present the annual Short Fiction SPENCE NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION The Spence Down, Natural Divinity, Forget Me Knots, The Rabid Whole. Printmaker features a series Impressionist prints from Contest. The contest has three divisions (junior student, Neighbourhood Association is looking for volunteers to artists such as Van Gogh and Renoir. Angakkuq: Inuit senior student and adult) and over $1,000 in cash prizes to help staff their new Youth Resource Centre at the M.E.R.C. Shaman is open until May 3. Fitzgerald In Context is open be won. All entries must be postmarked no later than Apr. The centre will be open after school hours and evenings. THEATRE, DANCE & COMEDY until May 17. 7. For entry forms and contest rules, contact writerscol- For more information contact Jamil at 986-5467 or youth- [email protected] or visit www.thewriterscollective. [email protected]. WOODLANDS GALLERY 535 Academy. Rumour Has It: New wordpress.com for more information. MONSIEUR D’EON The University of Winnipeg’s Depart- works by Angela Morgan, open Mar. 12 to 28. CANADA-WIDE SCIENCE FAIR Volunteers are needed to ment of Theatre and Films closes its 2008/2009 season MARIE BARTON CONTEST The Writers’ Collective presents work at the Canada-Wide Science Fair from May 9 to 17 with Monsieur d’Eon. The play runs from Mar. 31 to Apr. 4 the 2009 Marie Barton Postcard Fiction Contest The at the University of Manitoba. Interested parties should and is directed by Robert Metcalfe and performed by the COMMUNITY EVENTS contest is open to everyone. The entry fee is $5 for contact Alastair Komus at [email protected]. For Acting IV: Honours – Style & Genre class. Performances will non-members and free to Writers’ Collective members. more information visit www.cwsf2009.ca. take place at 8 p.m. at the Gas Station Theatre. For tickets Submissions should be sent in on a postcard along with FORT GARRY FESTIVAL The Fort Garry Women’s Resource contact 786-9152 or visit http://theatre.uwinnipeg.ca. CNIB BENEFIT The Canadian National Institute for the a story that relates to the image. Visit writerscollective@ Blind is holding their Eye on the Arts Benefit Auction Mar. Centre is seeking volunteers for their Fort Garry Festival on AGE OF AROUSAL Presented by Theatre Projects Manitoba uwinnipeg.ca and www.thewriterscollective.wordpress. 25 at the Winnipeg Convention Centre from 5 to 10 p.m. May 9 at The Fort Garry Community Club from 12 to 4 pm. and written by Linda Griffiths, Mar. 19 to 29 at Rachel com for more information. Proceeds from the event support CNIB programs and Volunteer hours could range anywhere from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Browne Theatre. Tickets range from $15 to $20 and are services. For more information call 774-5421 or visit www. WRITING CONTEST Admissions are being accepted for Interested parties should contact 477-1123 by Mar. 15. available from 989-2400 or www.theatreprojectsmani- cnib.ca/eyeonthearts. the 2009 Prairie Fire Press/McNally Robinson writing toba.ca. Evening shows starts at 8 p.m. and matinees start contests. The Bliss Carman Poetry Award will be judged by at 2 p.m. THE OTESHA PROJECT Is looking for people to participate Don Domanski; short fiction will be judged by Paul Quar- in their Canada-wide Cycle for Sustainability. For more BROTHERS IN ARMS Merlyn Productions presents an hour rington; and creative non-fiction will be judged byC harles information visit www.otesha.ca. of comedy by Canadian playwright Merrill Denison, Mar. Wilkins. $6,000 in prizes will be awarded. The first prize 19 to 21 at the Ellice Theatre. Show times are 7:30 p.m. FREE INFORMATION SESSIONS The Wii Chiiwaakanak Learn- in each category is $1,250. The deadline for submissions and 2 p.m. on Mar. 21. Tickets are $9, $7 for seniors. For ing Centre is seeking students and community members is Nov. 30. For information contact: Prairie Fire Press, more information and ticket reservations contact (204) who would benefit from attending a free information 423-100 Arthur Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 1H3, (204) 415-2714 or Merlyn.biz. sessions from local organizations and community service 943-9066, [email protected], or www.prairiefire.ca. providers. The sessions will be held every Wednesday AQUA BOOKS Mar. 17: Soapbox Open Mic with Kelly Hughes; evening from 5 to 7 p.m. until Mar. 25. The sessions will be Mar. 20-21: Vagina Monologues. held at 511 Ellice in room 1E18. For info contact Leah Gazan Listings Co-o r d i na t o r : Cu r r an Fa r i s Concert? Art show? Volunteer opportunity? Community event? Want to see your event in The Uniter? LISTINGS 21 E-m a i l : Listings@u n i t e r .c a E-mail your listing to [email protected]. The deadline for all listings is Wednesday. The Uniter is published every Thursday, March 19, 2009 The Uniter Ph o n e : 786-9497 so send your listings 8 days prior to the issue you want your listing to appear in. It’s free. It’s easy. Fa x : 783-7080 AWARDS & FINANCIAL AID The Awards and Financial Aid staff of the University of Winnipeg provides our student body with current information on award opportunities. This information is updated weekly.

Awards Offered by External and summary of training and experience in at a Canadian post-secondary institution. There not previously received substantial merit The Manitoba Blue Cross is sponsoring Assign- language of host country. will be 26 scholarships available in 2009, one awards and who demonstrate commitment to ment: Saving Lives educational bursaries in the Agencies and Organizations $5,000 Interac Scholarship and twenty-five community service, leadership, innovation and amount of either $1000 or $500. To be eligible, Please visit the Awards & Financial Aid Office – $1,000 Industry-Sponsored Scholarships. academic achievement. Grade 12 and University/College students in AUCC Awards main floor Graham Hall for application forms. Manitoba are challenged to recruit a minimum Each scholarship winner will receive the An applicant must meet the following criteria The Association of Universities and Colleges of of 25 blood donors who will donate between Deadline: Mar. 31 following: financial assistance for their to be eligible to apply for a national in-course Thursday, July 1 and Saturday, August 30. Canada provides 150 scholarship programs on post-secondary education; hotel and travel award: Canadian citizenship, permanent behalf of the federal government, domestic and 2009 Dalton Camp Award expenses to attend STORE 2009, the Canadian resident or protected person status within The educational bursaries will be awarded the foreign agencies, and private sector companies. retail industry's premier conference, June 1-2. the meaning of the Immigration and Refugee second week of September at the Winnipeg Check out website http://www.aucc.ca/ Look Established by Friends of Canadian Broadcast- Scholarship recipients will have the chance to Protection Act; enrolment in a recognized Convention Centre. All registered students will under the heading Scholarships and Internships ing in 2002, the Dalton Camp Award honours attend educational sessions and network with undergraduate first-entry program leading to a be notified of the results. Students that register for Canadian Students. the memory of the late Dalton Camp, a top industry professionals before they are degree, diploma or certificate at an eligible and before June 1, will be invited to an Orientation distinguished commentator on Canadian public recognized at STORE 2009. approved Canadian post-secondary educational Session at Canadian Blood Services. Business Council of Manitoba Aboriginal affairs. Each year up to two Canadians are institution; by the end of the 2008-09 academic Education Award selected to win a $5,000 prize for excellence in For application forms and more information year, have completed Second year – but not For more information and application forms, essay-writing on the link between democratic on how to apply, please visit their website: the third year – of a current program leading contact: If you are of Aboriginal ancestry, you are values and the media in Canada. http://www.retaileducation.ca/cms/sitem.cfm/ to an associate bachelor or bachelor degree. Tracy Lamoureux, Canadian Blood Services, 777 eligible for a Business Council of Manitoba scholarship You must also have been registered in at Aboriginal Education Award provided you meet Deadline: March 31. William Ave. Winnipeg MB, R3E 3R4, 204-789- Applications must arrive at Retail Council of least 48 credit hours in total over those two 1023, [email protected]. the following criteria: you are a citizen of To apply visit www.daltoncampaward.ca academic years; cumulative post-secondary Canada and permanent resident of Manitoba, Canada on or before Apr. 3 . Late applications will not be considered. school Grade Point Average of at least 3.5 or Deadline: July 31. having resided in Manitoba for the last 12 Public Safety Canada Research Fellow- B+; no previous receipt of substantial merit months; you plan to attend a Manitoba public ships in Honour of Stuart Nesbitt White scholarship funding to support post-secondary post-secondary institution in any discipline Manitoba Round Table for Sustainable Manitoba Student Aid Pro- Development Scholarship education, regardless of the source of the in the 2009-10 academic year; you plan to Public Safety Canada (PSC) is seeking to scholarship (e.g., school, government, private gram maintain full-time status (at least a 60 per encourage graduate research in support of its The Sustainable Development Scholarship source, etc.). Students applying after their The following information is provided with cent course load); you are in need of financial mandate, which is to enhance the safety and second year may not have received more than assistance assists post-secondary students who pursue regard to the second disbursement of your security of Canadians in their physical and studies or undertake research that embraces $3,500 in scholarship money based solely on Manitoba Student Aid Program (MSAP) If you are receiving funding from other sources, cyber environments. These awards are available the spirit and principles of sustainable develop- merit in any one year, with a total of no more assistance (Manitoba Student Loan) for the including band funding, you may still apply for for those students who are studying and ment. The scholarship is open to students than $5,000 to date. Note: Automatic provincial 2008-09 academic year: this award to cover additional costs. conducting research in the area of Emergency in any field of study offered at an approved government scholarships granted to students Management (EM). This includes work in the Manitoba post-secondary institution. These after surpassing a marks threshold are exempt Missing information. If any documentation Application forms are available in the Awards areas of one or more of the four pillars of scholarships are not available to employees from this limit. requested by the MSAP, such as summer income Office- main floor Graham Hall, and Student Emergency Management; mitigation, prepared- verification, has not yet been submitted, of the Province of Manitoba or their spouses, Deadline: May 25. Central-main floor Centennial Hall. Please ness, response and recovery. Studies focused common law partners or dependants. The electronic confirmation of your loan document submit to the Awards & Financial Aid office by on the all hazards approach with regard to scholarship consists of single, non-renewable will not occur and your loan funds will not be in EM are encouraged, as are studies in cyber Please visit this website for more information March 30. awards of $6,000 for a graduate student and or to apply: www.excellenceaward.ca place at the beginning of the winter term. security, disaster management, and critical $1,500 for an undergraduate or college student. Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial infrastructure protection and assurance*. Cross Manitoba Cattle Producers Association Revision to your needs assessment. You Scholarship disciplinary / multi-disciplinary studies in these Deadline: May 1. should be aware that new information, such areas are preferred and encouraged. Preferred Bursaries as verification of your summer income, Application forms are available from the may increase or decrease your MSAP needs The Ambassadorial Scholarships program disciplines are regional planning, engineering, The Manitoba Cattle Producers Association is supports the vision of The Rotary Founda- environmental studies, computer science, following website: http://www.gov.mb.ca/ assessment and the resulting loan amounts you conservation/susresmb/scholarship/apply.html pleased to make available four $500 bursaries are eligible to receive. Similarly, if your current tion to enable Rotarians to advance world geography, sociology, economics and/or areas annually for MCPA members or their children understanding, goodwill and peace. During such as risk modeling and system science. course load is different from that on your Legal Studies for Aboriginal Peoples Program attending a university, college or other Notice of Assistance letter, the amount of loan the study period, scholars are expected to post-secondary institution or pursuing trades be outstanding ambassadors of good will *For a definition of what PSC deems to be criti- you are eligible to receive may change. cal infrastructure see: http://www.publicsafety. The Legal Studies for Aboriginal People (LSAP) training. Preference will be given to those to the people of the host country through Program is a bursary program designed students pursuing a field of study related to appearances before Rotary clubs and districts, gc.ca/prg/em/nciap/about-en.asp DID YOU KNOW You can check the status of to financially assist Canadian Métis and agriculture or to those acquiring a skilled trade your student aid application, find out what schools, civic organizations and other forums. Number of Awards: eight (8) Non-Status Indian students who wish to that would be beneficial to the rural economy. After study has been completed, scholars share documentation is still outstanding, update your pursue their studies in law in a Canadian address information and much more on line? Go their experiences with the people of their home Value: $19,250 CDN institution. Financial assistance is provided to Completed applications must be submitted by countries and Rotarians who sponsored their to www.manitobastudentaid.ca Link to MySAO eligible students to offset some of the costs of May 29, 2009. A selection committee will review to log into your existing account. scholarships. Three scholarship programs are Deadline: March 31 attending a Canadian Law School in order to the submissions. Winners will be notified by available to apply for: Academic-Year Ambassa- obtain a law degree (LLB) over a regular period August 28th, 2009. The bursary criteria are as DID YOU KNOW If you are a student who has dorial Scholarship – one regular academic year Interested candidates will find the informa- follows: tion needed to apply for this program of three years. Financial assistance may also be had past Government Student Loans and are of full-time study at an institution assigned provided to eligible students who have received currently a full-time student but do not have a by The Rotary Foundation Trustees with the in a PDF or Word format by visiting the Eligibility: must be at least 17 years of age as of Association of Universities and Colleges of a conditional acceptance and are enrolled in a student loan this year, please fill out a Schedule provision of a flat grant in the amount of $25, pre-law program. January 1, 2009; must be an active Mani- 2 document to remain in non-payment status. 000 US; Multi-Year Ambassadorial Scholar- Canada’s website https://juno.aucc.ca/wes/hes. toba beef producer or the child of an active aspx?pg=934&oth=0005052009. Please come to Student Services in Graham ship – two years of full-time degree-oriented To be considered for a bursary under the Manitoba beef producer; must use the bursary Hall, where front counter staff can help you within two years. study at an institution assigned by The Rotary Roberta Bondar Girl Guides Scholarship LSAP Program, an applicant must: be Métis with this form. Foundation Trustees with the provision of a flat or Non-Status Indian of Canadian citizenship, grant in the amount of $12,500 US each year; living in Canada, who has applied to a Canadian Requirements: must submit a 400 to 500 DID YOU KNOW That Manitoba Student Aid This scholarship is available to any past word (maximum) typed essay discussing “The Cultural Ambassadorial Scholarship – three member of the Girl Guides of Canada who is law school; attest to Métis or Non-Status staff can be on campus on Fridays from 1 to 4 to six months of intensive language training Indian ancestry by signing the declaration in importance of the beef industry in Manitoba”; p.m. To meet with them, you need to set up an continuing her education in science, applied must submit proof of enrolment in a recognized and cultural immersion at a language school science, mathematics or technology at a the application form; demonstrate financial appointment time. Come to student services selected by The Rotary Foundation Trustees need by providing financial information on institution (e.g. transcript); must submit a list and book an appointment, or phone 786-9458 Canadian institution. It is awarded to students of community involvement (e.g. 4-H, community with the provision of a flat grant in the amount entering third, fourth or a post-graduate year income or other assistance received and or 786-9984. of $12,000 US for a three-month scholarship expenses as required in the application form; clubs, volunteer work, etc.); post-secondary of studies. There are two $2,000 scholarships program or trades training must be a minimum Other Award Websites: and $17,000 US for a six-month scholarship. to be awarded. Visit http://forms.girlguides. and demonstrate that they possess the ability to succeed in law school by providing the of one year in duration; provide the names of General eligibility requires applicants to have ca/default.aspx#scholarship for criteria and three references, including their addresses and Canada Student Loan program and other application forms. Application forms are to be necessary documentation as identified in the important information on finances and budget- completed at least two years of university application. telephone numbers. or college work, or must have a secondary sent regular mail or courier. ing www.canlearn.ca Submissions must be submitted no later than school education and have been employed in Note: Application forms will not be faxed. Faxed Please visit their website for more information a recognized vocation for at last two years 4:30 p.m., Friday, May 29 to: Manitoba Cattle Manitoba Student Aid Program www. or email applications will not be accepted. and to apply: http://www.canada.justice.gc.ca/ manitobastudentaid.ca when the scholarship begins. All applicants eng/pi/pb-dgp/prog/lsap-aeda.html#pre Producers Association Bursary Committee, 222–530 Century Street, Winnipeg MB R3H 0Y4, must be a citizen of a country in which there Deadline: Apr. 1. Surfing for dollars? Try these two websites: is a Rotary Club. Applicants must include Deadline: May 15 Fax: (204) 774-3264, E-mail: mcpa.office@mts. with their application: a curriculum vitae, a Retail as a Career Scholarship net. www.studentawards.com written statement no more than two pages in Millennium Excellence National In-course Award For more information or application forms, www.scholarshipscanada.com length explaining applicant’s plans to serve Retail Council of Canada, in partnership please contact the MCPA at (800) 772-0458 or as a Rotary Foundation ambassador, two with industry sponsors, will award more mcpa.office @mts.net . letters of recommendation, copies of relevant than $75,000 in scholarships and benefits to The Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation Please contact the awards office for informa- tion regarding external awards. correspondence with intended host institution students entering or currently enrolled in a national in-course awards are exclusively Canadian Blood Services Assignment: available to upper-year students who have business, marketing or retail-related program Saving Lives

Across 54- See-through 22- Primates with 35- Crime boss of the ear 1- Nick and Nora's material short tails or 36- ___ even keel 51- Assails pooch 56- Subdued no tail 37- Routine 55- Attempts Last week’s puzzle solution (#19) 5- Ancient Greek 58- Local annual 24- "The Sweetest 39- Pro follower 56- Pit coin outdoor festival Taboo" singer 42- Curved like 57- Expensive Crossword Puzzle #24 9- Spur part 59- Gandhi's land 26- Work the soil a bow 59- Mischievous Solutions to puzzles will appear in the next issue. 14- The closest 62- Strip of leaves 27- Roman poet 43- Gnarl child one to us is the 64- Intended 28- Clarets 45- Calls 60- Teachers' org. sun 65- Secure 31- Former Russian 46- Whirling 61- It breaks daily 15- Second letter 66- Prepare a rulers 48- Jumpy 63- Evergreen tree of the Greek book or film for 32- Horn sound 49- Open shelter alphabet release 33- Withered 50- Inflammation 16- Gladden 67- Check 17- Receipt recipient 68- Goes astray 19- Fight, Puzzle level: intermediate disturbance 69- Impudence Sudoku Puzzle #20 20- Ipecac, e.g. 21- Exactly Down 23- Goes back on 1- Declare

25- Ecol. watchdog 2- Pollen- Sudoku provided by krazydad.com 26- Rocky hilltop bearing organ of 29- Explosive stuff a flower Last week’s puzzle solution (#23) 30- Negligent 3- Aptitude 33- Snow 4- Mountain conveyances ridge 34- Unemotional 5- Offensive 35- Heart 6- Unit of power 38- Musical ability ratio 40- Auto pioneer 7- Elevator man 41- Parka 8- Little flap 44- Capital of 9- Fragment Morocco 10- Designer 47- The Lord's Cassini Prayer 11- ___-Mart 49- Steal from 12- Hot time in 52- The loneliest Paris number 13- Shelter 53- Jailbird 18- Seal crossword provided by bestcrosswords.com 22 The Uniter March 19, 2009 www.Uniter.ca

Sports & Fitness

Figure skating still getting an icy reception What factors make or break the legitimacy of a sport? A tale of two teams Jess Chapman opinions of individual judges. But ing, in the NFL, in soccer. Beauty who besides Wetzel is saying that doesn’t matter. Style doesn’t Wesmen second remaining in the game, Volunteer staff an unquestionable scoring system matter.” Manitoba fouled Ogidan on an is essential to credibility as a sport? Does the emphasis on style in basketball shows inbounds pass and she calmly Or is that just his opinion rearing figure skating make it less of a drained both free throws to give Sit down with a piece of paper and its head? sport? Or maybe it makes it more signs of promise the Wesmen the victory. a pencil, and try to write out a def- Wetzel then declares, “An ugly of one by adding an extra criterion The game created one of the inition of the word “sport.” It’s not person would stand at a consider- for the athletes to keep in mind. Scott Christiansen most memorable moments in re- all that easy, is it? able, if not insurmountable, disad- You decide. Volunteer cent Wesmen history. As common as sports are in our vantage in skating.” To illustrate this point, Wetzel The men’s team had no such daily lives, it’s difficult for the av- Never mind that physical cites the attack on Nancy Kerrigan playoff drama, as they fell 2-1 in erage person to say exactly what beauty is even more opinion-based in 1994, stating that it was due Another season of Wesmen bas- games in their first round playoff a sport is. I bet you would have than figure skating scores. to Tonya Harding’s jealousy over ketball has come and gone. They series against the Regina Cougars. worn out that pencil if I’d asked But Wetzel continues, “Ugly Kerrigan being “taller, prettier, earned no division crowns, no That series mimicked the entirety you to write what it’s not. people can win in track, in ski- more graceful” than Harding, conference championships and of their season, which saw a slew According to the Random House even though she was supposedly national titles, however not all of losses mixed with a few wins, Dictionary, a sport is “an athletic “better at all aspects of skating was lost for our two teams. the most impressive of which activity requiring skill or physical than Kerrigan.” The women had a strong sea- came in a sweep of Regina late in prowess and often of a competitive However, Harding’s skating ca- son, consistently competing the regular season. nature.” reer peaked in 1991; she was plac- with the top teams in the coun- They finished 5-17 and can If you’ve ever seen a figure skat- ing third to Kerrigan’s first in try. They finished with a 13-9 re- thank their provincial rival the ing competition, you can’t say the the 1993 U.S. Championships, cord and second in the division, Bisons for keeping them out of activities are completely devoid of and eighth to her second in the after losing to Regina in the Great the basement of the Great Plains skill or physical prowess, and, well, Olympics the following year. So Plains Division Final. Division. it was a competition you were perhaps Harding was jealous be- The team earned national Despite their struggles, the watching. cause Kerrigan was actually land- ranking at times throughout the Wesmen still had some excep- And by Yahoo! Sports colum- ing her jumps. season, and managed to persevere tional individual performances nist Dan Wetzel’s own admission, Considering that Harding has through second year guard Amy during the season, including Nick “figure skaters are not just athletes, never confessed to conspiring to Ogidan's injury early in the sea- Lother’s 43 point playoff perfor- but remarkable athletes.” attack Kerrigan, there is no proof son. Ogidan, a standout in her mance against the Cougars. The To sum up: Athletic activity, of her motivation. first year, continued to develop, third-year guard finished the sea- check. Skill, check. Physical prow- Still not convinced? I challenge however her injuries stalled what son averaging an impressive 18.4 ess, check. Competitive nature, you to enter a figure skating com- looked to be a very promising points per game, which put him check. petition yourself. After all, it can’t season. in the top 20 in the CIS. So why did Wetzel’s quote come be that hard to put on a glittery The season also saw the emer- Peter Lomuro, Mike James and from a screed titled “Why figure outfit and jump around on the gence of Catie Gooch as a top- James Horaska, finished second, skating is not a sport?" Let’s look. ice for a few minutes. Then come level CIS guard. Catie contributed third and fourth in team scoring, First, he claims that a sport back to me with your sprained significantly in her first two years, respectively, and are eligible to re- “needs a quantifiable way to deter- ankles, bruised elbows, and ice- but became a focal point of the of- turn in the fall. mine a winner and a loser.” scraped palms and tell me it’s not fense this season. She led the team A difficult season might have It is true that scoring in fig- a sport. in scoring at the season’s end, av- been expected though, as the ure skating is largely based on the illustration by ryan janz eraging 12.9 points per game. Wesmen did lose last year's top Supporting them were veter- three scorers due to ineligibil- ans Randie Gibson and Jessica ity and are looking to build from Stromberg, who led the team in here on out. More than just a playoff beard rebounding, averaging 8.5 per game. As well, Alex McIver con- MJHL is down “There is usually a combination they have confidence in the game tinued to provide a quality pres- of excitement as well as nerves plan and are prepared to stick to ence inside. to final four hoping the team is prepared it,” said Spiller. This group of players, all of and focused for the game,” said In the playoffs, there is simply whom are eligible to return next coach Blake Spiller of the Portage too much to lose. season, should make the Wesmen Kevin Chaves Terriers. “It was physically and emotion- a legitimate contender in the Volunteer staff There’s no question its tough ally exhausting,” Selkirk goalten- conference. being a coach during these times. der Alan Armour said after a recent The highlight of their season Sure, when you are winning it’s game. “That’s playoff hockey.” was perhaps their victory against

Is there anything better than play- all good and fun but what about There is no question that a 62- their rival the University of ke off hockey? when you’re losing, all you can do game regular season is physically Manitoba Bisons in the semi-fi- lly m o

No. Only in the playoffs can ri- is stand and watch. Besides bench- demanding but it is a time where nals of the Canada West playoffs. rt o valries be taken to the next level ing or double shifting players, the a loss can be handled calmly since The U of M led by three with n and in a split second, another ri- only tool you really have is your there are other games to make it 38 seconds remaining in the deci- valry can be formed. Locally, the words and you hope that your up. On the other hand, the play- sive game of the series, when Amy Catie Gooch. MJHL (Manitoba Junior Hockey team can follow through with offs are a seven game series that Ogidan scored to narrow the lead League) playoffs are heating up them. make for a hard race to four wins; to a single point. Then, with one and making new experiences for “You work all season for this not much room for error. everyone watching and playing. time of year,” said This time of year separates the “The playoffs are interesting Stokes. “If something boys from the men. The playoffs and exciting for the fans,” MJHL is going wrong, we are where the rookies look to the commissioner Kim Davis told have prac- veterans for leadership, experience mjhlhockey.com. “The match-ups tices and and a drive to take them a step fur- are excellent.” in be- ther. At the end of the day though, The Manitoba Junior Hockey the trophy is there for the tak- League is down to their final four ing; but who wants it more, teams. In the Addison Division, you or them? the Winnipeg Saints are battling the Selkirk Steelers, while the Portage Terriers are going at with the Dauphin Kings in the Sherwood Division. And with the play- offs come a lot of mixed emotions. “You do have a small feel- ing of helplessness and nervous- tween periods to hope- ness but it’s definitely more of an fully fix things up.” exciting feeling,” said Winnipeg Players must learn to con- Saints assistant head coach Trevor trol and maintain there emotions Stokes. “All you can do is hope while not changing their game that your players have absorbed plans or trying to do too much as everything from the successful players. season and practices and use it to “It is really hard to get a read on keep winning.” players’ emotions – again we hope Sports & Fitness 23 www.uniter.ca March 19, 2009 The Uniter

Snowboarding 'lifestyle' showcased at Falcon Ridge Jo Villaverde E

m Skier Matt Schumann flying high through ily C ily the Manitoba skies. hr i st i e half in any direction." Sunday's competition was spread between two different events, but This is the game that they were nonetheless a bit one never ends sided. Skier Christopher Benson Marathons are for chumps. Try claimed first place in both events, playing almost four hours of basketball with a score of 126.5 in the Jump- – as Syracuse and Connecticut did on side competition and 101 on the Thursday, March 12. Rail-side competition. According to Yahoo! Sports, Brian Calling, one of the judges Syracuse outlasted Connecticut in a for the Rail-side competition, game that went on for an outstanding helped give some meaning to these six overtimes. The teams combined scores by explaining the judging scored 244 points total, 102 which were after regulation. criteria. The game falls one overtime short “A lot of style mostly, combined of the record set by Cincinnati and with the difficulty of the trick plus Bradley on Dec. 21, 1981. the line-up before the trick is at- Just imagine being the losing team tempted,” he said. in this game. Harsh. The big winner Benson also earned the best trick award for the Big Air event after successfully Fine line crossed between victory and defeat, literally completing a Switch 7 off the top Kristina Groves' celebration of her table. gold medal in the 1,500 metre speed One of Benson’s opponents, skate did not last long as the officials Stephen Champ, was slightly in- quickly took it away. jured after the rail event, but he According to TSN.ca, Groves nonetheless placed second in the narrowly hit the puck separating Big Air event. He landed the best the lanes which resulted in her Rail-side trick – a front flip off the disqualification. cannon rail. Groves skated an incredible 1:57.75 Another Big F@lcon One of the other competitors, in the 1,500 m speed skate, nearly a Max Schumann, placed seventh full second under Germany's Anni Comp shows off top in Jump-side and fourth in Rail- Friesinger (1:58.66), who now earns side. He lives and works at Falcon gold. Netherlands' Ireen Wust has local snowboarders Ridge, and has been skiing in the moved up to silver with her time of competition since he was 10 years 1:58.83 and fellow Canadian Christine old and snowboarding for the past Nesbitt gets bumped up to bronze three years. with her time of 1:58.88. He said to get to where he is and to go even farther along the path to YouTube: The new big time skiing/snowboarding, you parenting tool have to train and you have to train Kobe Bryant's kid might not be hard. following in quite the same steps Marko Bilandzija can easily fade away. Boardanyone, the Kenora-based “I come out here every day and as her father. Natalia Diamante has Volunteer staff Enter Another Big F@lcon skate shop that recently presented every time I can and just go ride a shown big interest in soccer because Comp (ABFC), a competition that ABFC. bit...” Bryant showed her some soccer usually occurs twice a year at Falcon Shore agrees it is tough to make highlights on YouTube. To ski or snowboard in Manitoba Ridge Ski and Recreation Area, it big as a skier or a snowboarder in For more info on the competition, Bryant, who grew up in Italy, loved soccer and wanted a way to show his is no easy task. Spotting a hill has which is east of Winnipeg. Most re- Manitoba. log onto http://tinyurl.com/dg7o77. daughter the sport. much the same effect as discover- cently, the competition took place “Living in the prairies, anywhere According to Yahoo! Sports, Bryant ing gold, and without moving out on Sunday, Mar. 15. you want to ride, to get to some showed off highlights of soccer star west, hopes at big time competition Dustin Shore is the owner of sort of mountain is an hour and a Marta on YouTube and Natalia has loved the sport since. Maybe showing kids YouTube videos of people cleaning their room will work, too.

Founder of Tapout killed Living well in motor accident Charles Lewis Jr., also known as “Mask,” died Mar. 11 in a motor accident involving another vehicle. Your posture can also improve According to Yahoo! Sports, the Sagan Morrow significantly from regularly driver of the second car, Jeffrey David Volunteer staff doing push ups. Kirby, is being charged with one felony Furthermore, they can be How to do a perfect push up  After this set, rest for 30 seconds count of vehicular manslaughter by done in various different ways. The following workout effectively before completing this exercise over unlawful act with gross negligence The placement of our hands and targets multiple muscles because it again, now trying to do two of each while intoxicated, one felony count Push ups aren’t feet shifts the stress on the en- makes use of variations of the basic type of push up. of driving under the influence gaged muscles so that we work push up:  Rest for another 30 seconds and causing bodily injury, and sentencing  Get in classic push up position then perform three of each of the five enhancements for fleeing the scene just for body more muscle groups by doing (back straight and level, feet hip- push up variations. several kinds of push ups rather of a vehicular manslaughter and width apart, abdominals contracted,  After another 30 seconds of rest, causing great bodily injury to multiple builders than just focusing on the stan- hands shoulder-width apart), and do four of each push up; then rest dard push up. victims. perform one push up. for 30 seconds and do three of each Lewis, the founder of Tapout, a Push ups increase strength,  From the starting position, move push up. popular mixed martial arts apparel your hands so that they are close  Take 30 seconds, do two of each, Push ups are the ultimate body endurance and physical well-be- company, lived as a popular figure in weight exercise. Push ups affect ing. One of the best ways to as- together and almost touching; rest for a final 30 seconds and perform another push up. complete the workout with one of his own right among mixed martial the strength of our arms, shoul- sess all-over physical strength is arts circles. ders, chest and core. to see how many push ups (with  Next, move your hands wide each push up variation. If push ups are performed good form) you can perform apart and do one push up from this position. Now this is determination correctly they can also help to consecutively. Shift your hands again so that the support the muscles in the back. The 100 Push Ups Challenge You would think that breaking a right hand is directly beneath your couple vertebrae in his spine would They are convenient because is a 6-week program designed for shoulder and the left hand is further stop Travis Tollett from racing, but they require no equipment and participants to work their way ahead on the floor and perform that is not the case. can be executed anywhere, at up to complete 100 consecutive one push up. On July 19, Tollett is making racing any time. push ups. Learn more about it  To complete this set, history as he becomes the first shift your hands in the Push ups, being a functional at http://www.hundredpushups. quadriplegic to race in the “Race to opposite direction with exercise, engage muscles we use com. the Clouds” event at the Pikes Peak on a daily basis. By doing a few the left hand beneath your shoulder and the right hand International Hill Climb. sets of push ups several times a University of Winnipeg student further away from your body. According to CBSSports.com, Tollett week you will be strengthening Sagan Morrow writes a health is riding in a specially equipped Mazda the muscles you use in regular and wellness blog. Check it out RX-7 Turbo II alongside teammate lifestyle activity and thus your at http://livinghealthyinthereal- Steve Bennett. risk of injury will be lowered. world.wordpress.com. Nothing, I repeat, nothing keeps this man off the track. Job postings The following positions are based on a 30-week term running Aug. 10, 2009 to Dec. 4, 2009 and Jan. 4, 2010 to Apr. 2, 2010. Successful applicants will be expected to spend volunteer hours during the summer familiarizing themselves with the position, attending a mini-journalism conference organized by The Uniter, and planning for the year ahead. Staff members are expected to attend weekly staff meetings and actively engage in the development of their position throughout the course of their employment. For further information, call 786-9790 or e-mail [email protected]. References and at least three writing samples must be attached to resumes. Mail, or deliver resumes in person, to The Uniter, ORM14 Bulman Centre, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 2E9, or e-mail your application package to [email protected].

Only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. Applications are encouraged from all interested parties. Application deadline for all positions is Apr. 22 at 12 p.m. Interviews will take place during the week of Apr. 27.

News assignment editor porter generates story ideas and works closely with the news that examine cultural trends of relevance to readers of The ($110 per week) assignment editor to ensure coverage for a two to three-page Uniter. Along with the arts and culture editor, the culture section. They also research and write weekly stories and blog reporter ensures sufficient content to fill four to five-pages. The Uniter is looking for an organized individual with excel- entries, and co-ordinate compelling visuals with the photo They also work closely with volunteer writers to develop story lent leadership skills to co-ordinate a comprehensive eight to editor and production manager. ideas and provide support when needed. In addition, the cul- nine-page news section that examines university, local, na- ture reporter writes and researches at least one story per week, tional and international issues relevant to The Uniter’s diverse and regularly contributes to the online blog. and knowledgeable readership. In addition to demonstrating Beat reporter x 3 a critical eye for news content, the news assignment editor ($60 per week) assigns, researches and writes news stories and blog entries; Listings co-ordinator coordinates photographs with the photo editor and the pro- Beat reporters work closely with the news team to write two ($85 per week) duction manager; and provides volunteer and staff writers assigned stories per week and arrange for corresponding vi- with support, story development and story ideas. The news sual content. They must also regularly write blog entries on The listings co-ordinator collects and compiles on and off assignment editor works as a team with the news production The Uniter’s website. The chosen candidates will demonstrate campus event listings for The Uniter’s comprehensive listings editor. a critical eye for news content, possess superior writing and section. They are also responsible for writing brief descrip- interviewing skills, and work well under the pressure of dead- tions of the events The Uniter chooses to highlight each week. lines. Beat reporters must be able to work in collaboration The listings co-ordinator is also responsible for familiarizing News production editor with others and well as independently. faculty, student groups or other interested parties on and off ($110 per week) campus with the procedures for submitting listings. In addi- tion, they coordinate photos related to events to supplement The news production editor edits all content for an eight Comments editor the listings section. The successful candidate must be highly to-nine page news section. Working closely with the news ($85 per week) organized. assignment editor, the news production editor aids in gener- ating story ideas and helps writers to develop and write news The comments editor co-ordinates a weekly two to three-page stories. A strong understanding of journalistic style is manda- section full of well-written and compelling arguments and Copy and style editor tory. The news production editor is also responsible for re- opinions on a variety of current events and issues. The com- ($100 per week) searching and writing news stories and blog entries. Weekend ments editor must be familiar with a wide variety of campus, work is required. local, national and international issues of relevance to Uniter The Uniter is looking for an individual who demonstrates ex- readers. They ensure all commentary is fair and balanced, and ceptional editing skills. The successful applicant assists the edit all content. They work with the managing editor to de- managing editor in final edits for the newspaper. The copy Campus reporter velop a healthy dialogue between The Uniter and its readers. and style editor checks the entire copy for stylistic and gram- ($60 per week) matical errors. They are also responsible for compiling stylistic resources for staff. The successful applicant must be available The campus reporter ensures the goings on at the University Culture reporter to edit copy on weekends. of Winnipeg are covered in The Uniter. The successful candi- ($80 per week) date must have a keen eye for news and a knack for knowing what matters to readers. Liaising with students, the UWSA Are you a pop culture junkie? The culture reporter works and faculty and departments is a necessity. The campus re- closely with the arts and culture editor to develop story ideas

Announcement Annual Meeting of the Membership Mouseland Press Inc 12:30 p.m. March 25, 2009 Bulman Student Centre

Agenda: The following people are nominated to sit 1. Welcome and Introductions 2. Approval of Previous meeting’s minutes on the Mouseland Press Board of Directors: 3. Managing Editor and Business Manager Reports Shawn Coates 4. Approval of 2009-2010 Budget Michael Rac 5. By-law Changes Courtney Berthelette 5. Nomination of new Board of Directors Alex Freedman 6. Election 7. Election of Chair and setting of initial BoD meeting. Shannon Sampert 8. Presentation to outgoing board members - Election will take place at the AGM. 9. Adjournment The following people are also up for re-election at the AGM: Rob Nay Brian Gagnon