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MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE
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BRYCE LITTLECHILD
SMART CHOICES
NEW TRIBE magazine BLAIRE RUSSELL & CARRISSA LOW HORN THE PHOTOGRAPHER & THE MUSE
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BOOK REVIEWS
*TURN UP THE VOLUME *ART & POETRY TRIBE POETRY
Free Vol. 10 Issue 4 JULY 2011 Now Available online www.newtribemagazine.ca
NOTEBOOK from*the*editor Hello New Tribe Readers,
to the rain and hello to the summer sun.
Welcome to the July, 2011 issue of New Tribe Magazine. It’s going Need updates on upcoming to be a great month filled with USAY and New Tribe Magazine lots of events events? Feel free and activities to search us out for every age on Face book group. From and join our the Calgary growing friends Stampede, to list. We post various Pow upcoming events, Wows, let’s get submission the summer requ irements started! and deadlines, and fun stuff like In this issue of upcoming movie NT we featured nights and book up and coming clubs. It is also a phot o g r aphe r great place to comment on stories Blaire Russell, and his frequent or articles you wish to see in our model, Carrissa Low Horn, to upcoming issues. show that our city is a growing hot bed of talent in the creative arts, and how being successful Do you have an opinion on this can sometimes mean sacrifice issue of New Tribe magazine? Good, bad, or ugly send in your and enormous dedication. thoughts and we will print it in We also have a great selection the letters section. of articles from Joshua Fraser, Cassandra Loon, Sam Ryder, Spread the word, and stay true to it. plus our usual great selection of monthly features, makes this John Medeiros issue a great way to say goodbye
NEW TRIBE
Calgary’s Aboriginal Youth Monthly editor@newtribemagazine.ca Managing Editor John Medeiros Graphic Design Aboriginal Design Group Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth Suite 1109, 615 Macleod Trail South Calgary, Alberta T2G 4T8 403.233.8225 Executive Director LeeAnne Ireland Program Manager Rachel Paris Office Administrator Jessica Hawryluk Board of Directors President Sarena Provost Vice-President Amanda Gonet Treasurer Melaina Patenaude Secretary Cheryl Hanley Directors Ryan Willert Cassandra Loon NEW TRIBE is a monthly magazine. Our mission is to promote a positive outlook on Aboriginal living in an urban setting by promoting information sharing within the Aboriginal and youth communities Opinions expressed in submitted work/letters are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of NEW TRIBE or USAY. This magazine is a forum for Aboriginal youth to speak their minds and share their stories without intervention. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for plagiarism of the works in the magazine. All writings are presumed to be the original work of the contributing authors.
Special Thanks to our Community Partners & Funders
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CONTENTS
30
34
16 JULY
COVER STORY BY
Angel J. Sanderson
17 20
COVER FEATURE
7 WHAT’S GOING ON?
23
DAY CAMPS
8
24 TRIBE POETRY
4
NEWS BRIEFS
DREAMCATCHER
10 FICTION
26
CANADA POST
12 ON THE TABLE
29 TRIBE TALENT
14 POETRY
30
MUSIC REVIEW
15 COOL JOBS
32
MOVIE REVIEW
16 COMMUNITY
34
LITERALLY
18 HEALTH
37
HOROSCOPES NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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NEWS*BRIEFS
Aboriginal Happenings From Across Canada Chiefs move forward on drive to oust Lonechild Saskatchewan - The campaign to oust Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Guy Lonechild is advancing and may come to a head at next weekÕ s FSIN assembly at the Onion Lake First Nation.
Ò ItÕ s political. ItÕ s not any surprise heÕ s hanging on to it. But if the people decide (to remove him), that should be respected,Ó Bellegarde said. Bellegarde, also a former FSIN chief, said the matter needs to be resolved as soon as possible.
Little Black Bear, Lac La Ronge and Black Lake are among more than 25 First Nations that have reportedly passed resolutions calling for a non-confidence motion against Lonechild.
Ò WeÕ ve got too much work and too many issues to deal with, whether itÕ s education or economic development, health and welfare, child and family services, treaty implementation. The list goes on and on,Ó he said.
Ò YouÕ ve got to move as quickly as you can on the issue,Ó said Perry Bellegarde, chief of the Little Black Bear First Nation, 280 kilometres southeast of Saskatoon.
Ò ItÕ s about whatÕ s in the best interests of the collective.Ó
These First Nations, along with a chorus of groups including the last six FSIN chiefs, believe Lonechild is no longer fit to lead after they say he attempted to cover up an impaired driving charge in the weeks leading up to his election last fall. A number of leaders called for LonechildÕ s resignation at an FSIN assembly in February, but he declined.
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SOURCE -THE STARPHOENIX
Australians seek lessons of residential schools
INUVIK,NWTÐ A group representing Australian Aborigines has come to Canada to study how this country has gone about trying to right the wrongs done to First Nations by residential schools. Ò The Australian aboriginal sector really looks on Canada as being quite advanced,Ó
said John Dommett, one of two members of Connecting Home, the main Australian body that stands up for those who were taken from their parents during what is called Ò the time of the stolen generations.Ó Dommett is in Inuvik, N.W.T., at a national gathering of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a federally funded body that is travelling across Canada to collect the experiences of First Nations people who were forced to attend residential schools. Roughly 150,000 children attended the schools, which were often church-run and existed from the late 1800s throughout most of the 20th century. Although their ostensible goal was to prepare aboriginal youth for the modern world, their real purpose has come to be considered one of cultural extinction. Sexual abuse of those children was also common. AustraliaÕ s situ ation was similar, said Dommett, except children were placed in mental hospitals or other such institutions instead of schools. More than 100,000 Aborigine children are thought to have been directly affected in Victoria State alone. SOURCE - WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
What’s Going On? JULY,2011 July 04 - 09 Canadian Aboriginal Badminton Championship Saskatoon,SK
July 16 Katy Perry in Concert Saddledome Calgary, AB
July 29-31 2011 Canadian Native Fastball Championships Winnipeg, MN
July 05 - 07 Red Lake Nation Independence Day Celebration Powwow Email: ralussier@ sevenclanscasino.com
July 16 – 17 Poundmaker’s Lodge Traditional Powwow St. Albert, Alberta www.poundmaker.org
July 30 – 31 Long Plain First Nation Competition Powwow Long Plain, Manitoba Info:204-252-2731
July 08 - 17 Calgary Stampede Calgary, AB http://calgarystampede.com July 08 -17 Indian Village Stampede Park Calgary, AB July 10 Suncor Energy Family Day Calgary Stampede July 12 - 14 435th Annual BC Elders Gathering Abbotsford, BC July 13 BMO Kids Day Calgary Stampede
July 17-31 Spirit of the Sacred Dog Art Calgary, AB http://www. moonstonecreation.ca July 21 - 24 Calgary Folk Music Festival Calgary, AB http://www.calgaryfolkfest. com July 23 Dance, Drum & Discover – Celebrate Aboriginal Awareness at Heritage Park www.HeritagePark.ca
Calgary Stampeders 07/01/2011 07:00 PM Toronto Argonauts @ Calgary Stampeders 07/23/2011 05:00 PM Edmonton Eskimos @ Calgary Stampeders
Calgary YMCA Rec night Every Tuesday 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
If you have an event youÕ d like us to include in our monthly calendar, email it to us - usayeditor@gmail.com by the third Wednesday of the month. Submission deadline for the August 2011 issue: July 25
NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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TRIBE*EVENTS by Joshua Fraser
The Dreamcatcher / Treaty 7 Gala Event The Aboriginal Stars aligned in Calgary on June 16 for The Dreamcatcher / Treaty 7 Gala Event which took place at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park. There were hundreds of beautiful Aboriginal people dressed for success and walking the red carpet in support of the Dreamcatcher Fund. Business people mingling with models, actors mixing with community organizers, students networking with industry leaders. The beauty, diversity and success of our people was showcased that evening as the Dreamcatcher Charitable Foundation in partnership with Treaty 7 Management Corporation raised funds for DreamcatcherÕ s programs that have a goal of Ò developing youth as future community leadersÓ .
For the Arts & Culture sector funding this could include individual performers, attendance at established arts and cultural institutions, art shows, language programs and special events (i.e. championships, competitions, etc). For Education Support they could potentially fund individual students (K-12, Post-Secondary), student exchanges, organized school trips and other related educational endeavours.
For the Health Support sector they will possibly fund individuals, established health facilities and special events (diabetes initiatives, heart/ stroke walks, etc). For the Sports & Recreation sector they will fund minor sports teams, individual athletes (25 and younger) and special events (i.e. provincial championships). The The Dreamcatcher Charitable Foun- Dreamcatcher Foundation will funds dation is a registered charitable foun- a lot of requirements associated to dation based out of Ontario that the chosen initiative including equipfocuses on providing grants to First ment, official fees, registration fees Nations people to participate in ini- and other eligible costs. Though there tiatives they would otherwise not be are ineligible costs such as debts, opable to as they don’t have the finan- erating costs, salaries and honorarium cial resources. Funding for these ini- that will not be funded. Interested intiatives is focussed on Arts & Culture, dividual are encouraged to visit webEducation Support, Health Support site www.dcfund.ca to find out more and Sports & Recreation. The funds information on eligible initiatives, reavailable are available for a broad quirements, rules and instructions on range of fees, events and services that how to apply. an individual would need to participate in various initiatives as described. This was the first Alberta gala for the
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Dreamcatcher Foundation which has a strong presence in central Canada. As the Dreamcatcher Foundation grows as a national organization they are beginning to grow their influence in western Canada which has a considerable Aboriginal population. Plans for the gala were forming over a year ago when Daniel Brant CEO of Dreamcatcher met with Nicole Robertson President of Muska Productions and other to discuss the creation and organization of the gala which would celebrate Native talent and success. The organizers decided to hold the gala in the picturesque city of Calgary in partnership with Treaty 7 Management Corporation. Treaty 7 Management Corporation which is tasked with protecting and promoting the rights and people of the Treaty 7 territory which covers southern Alberta and includes the Blood Reserve, Siksika, Piikani, Tsuu TÕ ina and the Stoney Nakoda First Nations.The gala included Aboriginal talent from the area and across North America. The evening started with reception with cocktails and refreshments which provided an opportunity for networking and socializing. The formal agenda of the evening started with a fashion show put on by Artifaxx owner Denise Brillon. The theme of the fashion show celebrating the tradition of
TRIBE*EVENTS pow-wow through a dance memorial to the past. Carrier Dene twin models Shannon and Shauna Baker (aka: The Baker Twins) assisted with the scouting and training of local models to participate in the fashion show. The Baker Twins along with Maddy McCallum and Miss Universe Canada 2010 Ashley Callingbull participated in the fashion show and grand entry. Local Aboriginal models and modelsto-be Carissa Lowhorn, Denelene Manitopyes, Chantelle Goodrider, Natasha Keewatin and others were selected as models to participate in the fashion show donning beautiful designed Pow-wow themed fashions. Local accessories designer Melanie Parsons has her Savage Rose feathered earrings displayed with provide by a few of the models. After the fashion show Treaty 7 Grand Chief Charles Weaselhead lead a grand entry with dignitaries into the main Gala room to drumbeat and signing of Stoney Park. The stage was beautifully decorated with two large tipis provided by Mr. Reg Crowshoe on each side of the main stage. There were many starts in attendance including Eric Schweig from Last of the Mochicans, well-known actor Adam Beach, country singing
Adam Beach (Cowboys & Aliens Actor) & Kelli Morningbull
sensation Shane Yellowbird, TwilightÕ s wolfpac member Bronson Pelletier and musician Stevie Salas. The formal program of the gala was co-hosted by BlackstoneÕ s Andrea Menard and Corner GasÕ s Lorne Cardinal whose humour kept the crowd entertained all evening. Dreamcatcher CEO Daniel Brandt provided an inspiring speech on the importance of Aboriginal achievement and empowerment and why the Dreamcatcher Foundation plays an important role in ensuring First Nations people have the opportunity to participate. Dreamcatcher Role Model Awards were presented to Ashley Callingbull, Brittanee Laverdure, Dr. Lana Potts and Kelly Babstock who were all beneficiaries of Dreamcatcher programs and who are all excelling in their current endeavours. The audience was well entertained with music from The Funk Brothers.
our communities. The packed event with over 800 attendees helped The Dreamcatcher Foundation meet its goal to successfully fundraise money to continue to help the foundation of providing its excellent programs, services and initiatives. Conference coordinator Nicole Robertson was proud of the net benefit of having this gala to the Aboriginal community in Calgary and the surrounding First Nations in the Treaty 7 territory. She expects to see this event again in Calgary and looks forward to seeing it continue to grow.
Watch for the Dreamcatcher FoundationÕ s next big initiative The Big !dea 3 which is Indian CountryÕ s answer to the DragonÕ s Den. Entrepreneurs and those who have considered starting their own business pitch their idea to panel of successful Native investors who will dissect and comment on your business In the end the Gala was a great success idea and plan and judge its feasibility it provided economic opportunities and possibility of success. The top 3 for local Aboriginal and mainstream finalists win large cash prizes and the businesses, highlighted new and opportunity to pitch their idea to upcoming talent and provided a some of the most wealthy Aboriginal networking venue for professionals, business people in Canada. For more artists, actors and other to discuss and information visit www.dcfund.ca share thoughts and ideas on how to continue to strengthen and empower
Bronson Pelletier (Twilight Actor) & Eva Meguinis (Calgary Stampede Indian Princess)
Michelle Thrush (Blackstone Actress) & National Chief Shawn Atleo (Assembly of First Nations)
Nicole Robertson (Muskwa Productions) & Joshua Fraser (Aboriginal Circle)
NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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TRIBE FICTION
ALONE IN MY CELL Sam Ryder Coughs from down the hall make me jump. IÕ ve only been here for a few days, and IÕ m still not used to the place. Echoes bounce off of the concrete walls, thick, grey, and cracked. Little etchings of past inmates, past lives, cover the dark walls. Scribbled phrases like Ò Lenny was hereÓ , Ò Prisoner 578249Ó , and other small tokens are scratched along the stone surface, reminders of an existence, cries to the world in hopes that the world hasnÕ t forgotten them.
was a good sign. The only attention that they would give you was the belt when you talked back or didnÕ t do a chore. I tried my best to stay out of trouble and simply mind my own business.
Being a good Christian family, we also went to church every Sunday. The pastor, Pastor Stevens, would always try to implement the news and world events into his sermons, drawing a lesson to be learned from each event. I thought his sermons were boring. I didnÕ t care As I read these little notes, I won- what was happening in the rest of der who these people were, what the world because I had to be conthey did, and how they ended up cerned about what was happenhere. I canÕ t bring myself to shout ing at home, especially that brutal to the world. IÕ d prefer that the winter of 1986. world just forget me, let me rot here in peace, and when I get out, Droves of rats had found refuge let me rot at home in peace. from the bitter cold in our floorboards, as had their fleas. One of I wasnÕ t always so discouraged. I my little brothers, David, got bit was never “happy”, just satisfied. and contracted murine typhus. Growing up on the reserve, I had He quickly developed a high fever, to work hard to earn my place a violent cough, and complained being the third born in a family that his entire body ached. The of nine kids. ItÕ s hard to make an virus was treatable with some animpression on your parents when tibiotics, but we were snowed in youÕ re competing with eight oth- and could not get to the pharmacy. er children, but most of the time, I told my father that I could climb no attention from Mom and Dad out one of the windows in the at10
NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
tic and go to the pharmacy, but he said that the pharmacy is most likely not open, and is too far away to be walking there. I begged my father to let me go, but he vehemently refused. Fuming, I yelled at him and stormed to my room. As the days passed, my little brotherÕ s condition worsened. He would sleep for hours and not move. One day, after a substantial amount of the snow had melted, he stopped breathing, and my mother called an ambulance. When the paramedics arrived, they tried to revive him, but he was gone. David was just eight years old at the time. I was fourteen at the time and watched as my mother cried over his body while the paramedics tried to take him away. My father stared out the back window of the kitchen, a stern look on his face. At the Sunday service that week, Pastor Stevens talked about DavidÕ s death. He said that death is a natural part of life, and that we each have a destined time to die so that when He is ready, God may take us back to His kingdom of Heaven. He said that God is always watching over and taking
FICTION care of us, and although something may seem bad, it is all part of God My father would blame my mother taking care of you. for DavidÕ s death, because she did not keep the house clean and had Five years later, I was nineteen attracted the rats that caused his and suffocating in my tiny reserve. illness. I wanted to scream at him. My father had become more abu- I could have helped David. I could sive after my brotherÕ s death. My have gotten the medicine. After mother never got over David, and months of this, I could not take it retracted further into her shell anymore. when my father would yell at her for not doing the dishes or not So I snuck out of the house, went picking up the groceries. down the road, and hitchiked into the city. Soon I was caught up in Shouts from upstairs muffled the wrong crowd and ended up through the floor pierced the air where I am right now. Right then, around me, and I felt trapped, iso- lying in my cell, I suddenly realize lated, and alone. My happiness, or that my situation is not caused by rather, my satisfaction was being my parents, coincidence, fate, God, broken. or anything else.
I was here because of me alone. I could blame my father for stopping me from helping my brother, or God for not watching over my family and I like Pastor Stevens promised, but I wouldnÕ t. It all came down to me, and what I did. I alone am responsible for actions that have led me to be locked up, and I can never take it back. But I can stop it from happening again, and promise to repent for what IÕ ve done, and stop other youths from suffering the same fate. When I get out of here, I think IÕ ll become a counselor for troubled youths.
NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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FLAVOR
On the Table BAKED CHICKEN WITH PASTA INGREDIENTS 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts450 g 1 Tbsp olive oil, extra virgin15 mL 2 cloves garlic, minced2 cloves 1 cup onion, diced250 mL 1 can mushrooms, sliced225 g 3 cups Marinara pasta sauce750 mL 1/4 cup half and half cream, 10% MF60 mL 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar30 mL 15 Kalamata olives, pitted15 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper2.5 mL or 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes2.5 mL 1/2 cup parsley, fresh, minced125 mL 1 Tbsp rosemary, fresh, minced15 mL 1 pkg whole wheat fusilli pasta375 g 1 cup mozzarella cheese, part skim, 16.5% MF250 mL 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Cut the chicken breast cross-wise into smaller bite size pieces. Heat the oil in a heavy-based pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions, garlic and chicken stirring occasionally until cooked through and nicely browned. Add the mushrooms, pasta sauce and the cream to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so that the sauce thickens slightly. Stir balsamic vinegar, pitted chopped olives, cayenne pepper, minced parsley and rosemary into the sauce. Cook until heated through - about 5 minutes. Cook the whole wheat pasta in unsalted boiling water until al dente following packaged directions. Cook the pasta less than you normally would, as it will be cooked further in the oven. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Spray a 3 L oblong baking dish with non-fat cooking spray. Spread the pasta and sauce evenly in the dish.
Top the pasta with the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and additional minced fresh parsley. Bake until the cheese is golden brown, about 15 minutes. 12
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FLAVOR
On the Table CHICKEN CURRY INGREDIENTS 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked, chopped500 mL 2 Tbsp olive oil30 mL 1 cup onion, diced250 mL 2 cloves garlic, minced2 cloves 1 tsp cumin, ground5 mL 2 Tbsp curry powder30 mL 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper1.25 mL 1/2 tsp salt2.5 mL 3 Tbsp whole wheat flour45 mL 3 cups low sodium chicken broth750 mL 1 cup butternut squash, peeled, diced250 mL 1 cup green beans, cut in half250 mL 1 red pepper, diced1 1/2 cup parsley, fresh, minced125 mL or 1/2 cup basil, fresh, minced125 mL or 1/2 cup cilantro, fresh, minced125 mL 1 cup brown basmati rice DIRECTIONS
Cook the rice according to package instructions. If you are in a rush, use a fast cooking brown rice. Sauté onion, garlic and spices in olive oil until tender. Sprinkle in whole-wheat flour and stir well to blend. Sauté for 2 more minutes. Pour in chicken broth and blend well to break down any lumps. Slowly bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes. Stir in vegetables and chicken and season with salt to taste. Continue to simmer until the curry comes to a boil and the vegetables are tender crisp. The thickness of the curry depends on your taste and the combination of ingredients. You may need to add an additional cup of chicken broth if it is too thick. Just before serving stir in fresh minced parsley (or cilantro or basil)
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13
POETRY
A CURSE OF ETERNAL LOVE by :Stacie Himmelspeck
I hate you so much, that I’ll curse you, like you curse me... I curse you... with the most horible curse of all Eternal Love. Where you’ll live and die aloneforever. Cursed to chase the one you love. To never be love in return. But you’ll never be the only one cursed, for I am cursed too... ...because I love you...
CLOUDS IN MY MIND by Alicia Stone
The wind blows out my window bringing the scent of your perfume I don’t know why you left I don’t know why I stayed Can’t we turn back time and say our regrets? Why do we let the past control us all it can do is make us miss the future
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Community
COOL JOBS PROFILE Sable Sweetgrass
BVC Aboriginal Centre Administrative Assistant
1. What is your name and job title? (Where do you work?) Sable Sweetgrass Ð BVC Aboriginal Centre Administrative Assistant 2. What does your job consist of? Everyday general office duties and then the fun stuff like organizing cultural events for our students, hanging out and telling stories with our Elder Dila Provost and teaching our new Canadian students about Aboriginal people. 3. What sort of education do you need to get into this type of work? I have a BA degree in English from U of C, but I think if you have a mixture of experience working in the Aboriginal community or within an educational institution you could go for this type of work. 4. How long have you been doing this job?
with their needs. We are a real team. While I was a student at U of C I worked part time here in my position at the Aboriginal Centre, its been 2 • years now and its gone by real fast, I love working here. 5. Why did you get into this type of work? Well I needed a part time job while I was going to university and this position was very similar to some of my past summer jobs. Also IÕ m a parent and an artist so I canÕ t commit to a full time job right now. Working at the Aboriginal Centre part time gives me the balance I need of work and life. 6. What is your favorite thing about your job? There is so much I love about working here, but I would have to say that working with Noella Wells and our Elder, Dila Provost, is my favourite thing. We are always laughing, telling stories and we just love being here on the front lines helping our students
7. What are the challenges within your job? IÕ m not a counsellor but I have a lot of students who come into the centre and need help or just need someone to listen to them about the difficulties in their lives or in school. IÕ ve helped them with their homework, getting housing, daycare, getting in touch with the food bank. One of our students was homeless and I got her into temporary shelter. None of this is part of my job description, but both Noella and I do what we can for our students so they will succeed. 8. What advice do you have for other Aboriginal youth interested in this position? Because you are dealing with Aboriginal students, many of whom have a lot of obstacles in their lives, you have to be willing to go beyond your regular office duties, but it’s worth it. NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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COMMUNITY
National Aboriginal Day Gala By LoonKwe June 21, 2011 marked CalgaryÕ s first National Aboriginal Day Gala held at the Coast Plaza. Months of careful planning and coordination by the Aboriginal Awareness Week Committee went into the fabulous evening that consisted of traditional song and praise, fashion, and a musical legend. It was the perfect event for CalgaryÕ s Aboriginal community, guests and partners to celebrate the rich and inspirational Indigenous culture. The evening began with a grand entry comprised of Chiefs, Dignitaries, Royalty and Pow Wow dancers to the drumming of Blackfoot Crossing, and then the opening prayer was conducted in the Blackfoot language by Elder Leonard Bastien. The beautiful and amusing MCs for the evening were inspirational community member Nicole Robertson and comedian Jebb Fink. The night consisted of speeches and motivational words from Mayor Naheed Nenshi, Minister Len Webber, Chief Charles Weasel Head and Bev Webber. During the dinner portion of the night a tribute was made to the late Joane Cardinal Schubert; an inspirational Blackfoot woman who was instrumental in establishing the Calgary Aboriginal Arts Awareness Society in 1988 bridging the gap between Calgarians and the Aboriginal community. One of the highlights of the evening was the Ò Century of Style Fashion ShowÓ by Blood Tribe member
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designer Pauline Dempsey. The fashion lines of 16 traditional Blackfoot dresses were modeled by previous Stampede Princesses and other traditional Aboriginal women. During the fashion show, PaulineÕ s husband Hugh Dempsey narrated and described each dress’ magnificent detail and purpose to the captivated audience. Pauline received a standing ovation for her beautiful designs that were 47 years in the making. The night continued with the Ò Story of MohkinstisÓ told by Honorable Judge Eugene Creighton, a moment when everyone attending was educated on the beginnings of the city to which we all enjoy.
and their contributions to Canada. Calgary is the only city in Canada that celebrates Aboriginal Awareness for an entire week. This year, the Aboriginal Awareness Committee, a group of partnering agencies joined together to make an event as wonderful as the Gala. With the support of our local society the night was filled with rich and diverse culture that highlighted the very best aspects of Aboriginal people. The Gala was a great success and truly demonstrated what can be accomplished individually and in numbers by our community.
In the final hour of the Gala, Academy Award winner and keynote speaker Buffy Sainte Marie enlightened the audience with her philosophies and life experiences. She entertained everyone with her humour and cool point of views about Aboriginal culture past, present and future. Buffy performed a few of her musical pieces and ended the evening on a great note that being Indigenous is groovy and hip! National Aboriginal Day is for all Canadians to celebrate the cultures of First Nations, MŽ tis and Inuit People,
Buffy Sainte Marie
TRIBE * ART
Bryce Littlechild
NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
17
Health
POP ISNĂ• T ONE OF THEM Janice Monroe
If you are a parent of young children, then chances are that you hopefully watch what they eat to make sure they are taking in healthy foods that promote proper growth and development. This of course also includes the drinks that they consume. The range of things that we can put into a cup for children to drink is huge, from milk to apple juice and from water to pop; however, the latter mentioned drinking options is one of the worst choices that you can give your child to drink.
on your health. Pop is filled with sugar and artificial colorings and flavorings and because of this, pop basically has zero nutritional value. Yes, that is right. There are no vitamins and minerals that are healthy for you to be found in pop. Only lots of empty calories, that in no why shape or form can offer you any kind of nutritional benefit. Because of this lack of nutrition, but lots of calories if you give pop to your children it may in fact cause them to gain weight and that can lead to obesity later on it their life.
Pop or soda as we know it is currently one of the most popular beverage choices of not only children; however, research has shown that consuming sodas can have serious effects
Besides lacking any substantial nutritional value and an overload of calories, there are also other reasons that you should keep pop out of your childrenÕ s cups. A second reason to avoid giving
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your children pop, is because the enormous amount of sugar in it can promote tooth decay. If your child is consuming a sugary drink, then that sugar sticks to the teeth and this is what causes the dental problems. Another reason that pop is thought to cause tooth decay is because the acid that is found in soda is thought to erode of the enamel of the tooth which makes the tooth susceptible to cavities. Do you think that is enough reasons for you to consider giving your children healthier choices of beverages? If not, there are still a few more. How about if you give your little ones caffeine early in life they become dependent on caffeine? This dependency and
HEALTH consumption of caffeine may interfere with normal brain development. Studies also show that by drinking pop, that your children may be a victim of weakening bones. Soda contains phosphorus which is known to suck the calcium out of bones on animals. If your child does lose calcium from their bones, then they will be more prone to breaking bones easily. You have heard all of the dangers of giving your child pop and you may now be wondering if there is any beverage that is healthy for your child to drink, of course the answer is yes. There are many alternatives that you can give to your child that can be just as tasty as soda, but with nutritional benefit. Of course your first two choices of beverages that are highly recommended are water and milk. Both water and milk
provide the body with many benefits. Water will work to keep your child hydrated and will also keep your childÕ s body flushed clear of toxicities. Milk of course contains calcium which is a necessary nutrient for building strong bones. Milk also contains vitamin D which helps your body to absorb the calcium that is found in milk. While milk and water are simple choices, there are a few alternatives to pop that will provide the taste of pop, but with low calories and nutritional value. The first suggestion is that you take carbonated water and mix it together with a fruit juice. You can do the juice of an orange, lemon, peach, etc. The carbonated water will give you that fizz that you find in pop, but the nutrients that you find in fruit juices. You can also try to tempt your childÕ s taste buds with different
flavored beverages that you otherwise may have not thought of such as tomato juice with a squeeze of lemon or water mixed up with the zest of a lemon or vanilla extract. Decaffeinated tea with lemon slices is also a beverage that you can offer your children. We all want to make sure that we do everything possible to help our children grow to be healthy adults and one way that we can ensure that we do this is by providing them with healthy drink and food choices. Make the decision to ban pop from your home. This means for all that live in the household, because not only is pop unhealthy for children, but it is also unhealthy for adults. Instead, make the decision to only provide your family with healthy beverages. They are sure to appreciate it in the long run.
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COVER FEATURE
THE PHOTOGRAPHER & THE MUSE By: Angel J. Sanderson Photos by Melanie Parsons Throughout the history of fashion, film & art there have been collaborations that remain synonymous with one another. Blaire Russell and Carrissa Low Horn have made their mark as such. Perhaps they will go down in fashion history, and in their very own right. With high fashion in mind, and endless talent, the dynamic duo is headed for great things. As any artist and a muse, they begin with camera, killer skills, a little luck, and a vast set to explore. A share love for creating something beautiful unfolds into masterpiece after masterpiece to catalogue the exquisiteness of youth. Q: So Blaire, you mentioned how you started out by walking around downtown and snapping pictures. What about downtown Calgary inspired you to get a camera in your hand? A: IÕ ve always been a photographer. I guess it started when I was a kid, carrying around a Ô point and shootÕ 35mm camera taking snap shots of trees and birds and such. When I was in high school I would take classes to teach you how to develop film. The digital camera era hadnÕ t quite made it into mainstream. Now, digital media is everywhere. I mean, I take a lot of pictures with my iPhone and some turn out looking great. Art is art; you take it as it is. It wasnÕ t till last year I bought a digital SLR and started snapping random pictures during downtown walks. Inspiration comes from everywhere. EveryoneÕ s an artist. Engineers are artists; their medium is concrete & metal. Painters: oil, charcoal, etc. Musicians: Pianos, guitars, drums and so on. Calgary has a vibrant atmosphere with many artists. Q: You photography is beloved by many, and your areas of expertise seems to be broad and ever expanding. Tell me about your experience creating Blaire Russell Photography this far. A: I call myself a self taught artist but isnÕ t necessarily true, IÕ ve received a lot of help and advice from family and friends. Growing up in a family of artists
on the Blood Reserve, I gained a lot of inspiration from my uncles. Music also plays a big part in my creativity, where would we all be without music? IÕ ll always remember listening to my uncleÕ s jam sessions in my grandmotherÕ s basement, it brought out a lot of inspiration. I always grew up idolizing the artists in my community, sometimes attempting these creative achievements. I never was that great at drawing or painting but it wasnÕ t something that got me downhearted. I remember picking up books and magazines as a kid and being amazed with photographers such as Ansel Adams. It wasnÕ t until about a year ago I started taking portraits of friends, I mean I still love taking pics of landscapes and wildlife but it gets old sometimes. Cowboy Smithx gave me a definition of photography, Ò The Architecture of Light.Ó This opened my understanding and excitement for photography
new every time I shoot.
Q: CanÕ t help but notice you have had a myriad of beautiful people in front of your lens! How do you prepare for a photo shoot?
Q: You and Carrissa have been working together for a while now. Would you please share a bit about how that working relationship has come to fruition?
A: It may seem clichŽ but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Everyone and everything has some sort of beauty. The only models I pay for are homeless people, believe it or not. You can catch the most beautiful smile or the most tragic look in someoneÕ s eye. You can tell a lot about a person by the expressions in their face. Most people would turn the other way when they see a person down on their luck; I believe there is good in everyone. Everyone has a story to tell, you never know but that person thatÕ s asking for change could change your outlook on life. There is a lot to learn from everyone you encounter. Engaging in conversation is key to photo shoots, it’s beneficial to me and my subject to be relaxed when shooting. I can tell when a person is tense, so itÕ s best I keep people light-hearted with my sense of humour. As for preparation, I donÕ t quite have a studio yet, so I do the best with what IÕ ve got. My favourite place to shoot is downtown Calgary, I find someplace
A: I have many people to thank that have helped me along the way and I am very grateful to have these people in my life. When I started shooting with Carrissa, I didnÕ t know much about posing models and such, we always just winged it. We developed a strong friendship along the way and IÕ m very grateful we crossed paths.
Q: What sort of wisdom could you share with youth who face adversity when pursing any sort of creative arts? A: Always evolve, let ideas build on ideas but its good not to lose focus on your original plan. Never apologize for your art. It is what it is. When you see someone successful, donÕ t hate him, celebrate him. Always take constructive criticism; you can learn a lot from outside perspectives. Q: They say a photograph is worth a thousand words, so that must mean 100 000 thoughts cross your mind per shoot. Give or take. If you took a photo of yourself, how would you describe it in 4 or less? A: A work in progress.
Q: Any goals/aspirations for the future of BRP? A: I would very much like to further my education in visual arts. I dream of traveling the world and meet new people, maybe making a book, while representing my identity as a First Nations entity. I think its important to remember where you came from because it helps you with where youÕ re going. The possibilities are endless when you put your heart and soul into something you love. *** NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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COMMUNITY CARRISSA Q: Carrissa I hear your going to be competing in a pageant this summer. Very exciting! Good luck! Would you please share with me how that all came about? A: Yes thank you! I never thought that I would ever be involved in a pageant. Growing up I was always interested in sports especially hockey and as years went by I decided to stop playing because it was hard being a hockey player and a University student at the same time. It was never in my future goals that I would ever be doing what I am doing today; until I was scouted and asked to fill out an application, then along came a phone interview. The next day I received a phone call from Miss Canada Globe congratulating me on being selected a National finalist for Miss Canada Globe 2011. This was very unexpected and unplanned. I willingly took this opportunity knowing that I can make positive change within my community. I am very excited but at the same time there is still much work to be done before the pageant. The Pageant will take place in Toronto from August 10-21st, where I will proudly represent southern Alberta as my regional title. Q: You mentioned how modeling isnÕ t something you ever really thought about, and that it just kind of fell into your lap. So far you have steadily become a household name as a model. Do you want to pursue this more so? (Please share with our readers a bit about your goals as a model, your experience so far) A: I first started modeling for various artists on a volunteer bases and I continue to do so. I feel that my time committed to these various projects is my way of contributing back to the community, and IÕ m very honored and thankful for all the opportunities that have come my way. I have already been approached by two modeling agencies, but I feel that it may interfere with my volunteer work as well as my pageant. At this present moment my main focus is preparing for my pageant at the same time I will continue to volunteer my time to various artists that I have been modeling for, such as Savage Rose and Blaire Russell Photography. Q: You and Blaire have been working together for some time now. Would you
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share a bit about how it is to be the muse of a photographer, and the experience as that working relationship has grown? A: When Blaire and I met it was instant chemistry, and I was amazed with our first shoot considering we just met. As time went on we continued to shoot and people started to take notice and interest in our work together. I guess in a way
Q: Youth these days really need positive role models to aspire to. How do you prepare for taking on such a role? What kind of message would you like to be associated with you as a person, and as a role model? A: Yes it is very important for youth to have a role model in their lives to help guide them along their path in life. Growing up I have had very strong woman around me to help me make positive decisions in my life. I was raised by my grandmother and her teachings have influenced me greatly and made me the person I am today. I want to be able to show others especially the youth that it is possible to making your dreams and goals a reality. Q: When you are about to be photographed what sort of thoughts help you to create a pose that deserved to be edited and shared?
I was helping him advertise his work as well building our portfolioÕ s, and at the same time I was being asked to model for other artist. I feel that we both helped each other in a positive way creating opportunities for one another. It is always a pleasure to work with Mr. Blaire Russell. We have definitely developed a friendship and continue to get progress in our work together as well as a model and a photographer. Q: The pageant is getting close! What sort of preparations do you have to take? A: I am currently seeking sponsors for my journey to Miss Canada Globe 2011. My sponsors name and/ or business will be recognized internationally in the souvenir program brochure, and will be distributed to delegates, attendees, and next yearÕ s delegates. Sponsors will also receive recognition on the Miss Canada Globe website http://www.misscanada. tv/. To stay updated on my journey to Miss Canada Globe you can add me on Facebook or like my page at Carrissa Lowhorn Miss Canada Globe 2011. There is still much work to be done before I leave and I hope to get as much support as I can.
A: Whenever IÕ m shooting I try to be very natural and think of positive things so that my pictures give off positive energy when it is being viewed by others. I love being behind the camera, I feel that itÕ s my personal way of expressing myself artistically. Q: I must say I have thoroughly enjoyed the few times I have had the pleasure to work with you. WhatÕ s next for Carissa? A: Yes it was a pleasure working with you as well. So far along my journey I have met so many amazing artists and people, making me want to strive for more and become successful in everything I do. My main focus at moment is my pageant and my volunteer work. Coming September I will return to the University of Calgary which will be my 3rd year in the International Indigenous Studies program. As for modeling I will have to wait and see what opportunities come my way. Q: Any words of wisdom for aspiring models? A: You donÕ t have to be some super hero to achieve your dreams and goals; all you have to do is believe in yourself and once you do others will believe in you too. I believe that confidence is key to making your dreams a reality. Keep believing in yourself even when others donÕ t, let doubt be your motivation. Always keep positive and good things will come your way because you are what you attract.
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TRIBE Poetry
Infamous Angel A day in the life of mine consists of hearin others perfectin their life of crime. Time & Again, I hear stories of how they ended up back in the bin with a few more sayin their headed back 2 the pen. Young, middle & old. Everyday it’s anotha story told, with nothin’ new, yet all so bold but each just anotha scheme in searchin 4 diamonds & gold & if your here long enough, this place can leave your soul twisted & cold. I seen guy’s bigger than me, shirts stained with tears start prayin & fold. Yes indeed, sombre souls do make a sad sight 2 behold. As 4 me, I’d say I trained my patience right. There’s only so much I can take B4 it’s an all out fight, & though dayz R filled with drama & stress. I do what I do just so my mood don’t slip in 2 depressed. So now, I’m puffin on hydro till my eyes low. I pick up a pen & just let my mind flow, with poetry so deep you could call it a rhyme show & with that. My mind crafts an evil imagination brought on by my tortures of the time that I’m facin. When everything in my life started goin right, turned left & in 2 anotha one of the devil’s creations. Misery I guess was meant 4 me, I see now I’m headed 4 the penitentiary. Unless the Lord intervenes & takes me all the way back 2 elementary. Where all was so simple & divine. B4 I ever got hit with any type of idiotic crime. As 4 now, I’m caught in a case so lost & far from the truth, keep a strait face, fold or what should I choose. I could’ve never thought, it would come down 2 this bein my biggest battle fought. So if worst comes 2 worst & I get convicted of first. Call it a sacrificial curse or whatever you want. But I’d like ya’ll 2 know I tried & gave it everything I got. Just know a conviction was flawed, bought off a story of fiction & fraud. Not 2 mention now I got an addiction 2 God some would find a bit odd. My situation has brought me closer 2 faith from every which angle. From here on in I’ll 4ever be known as Infamous angel. Aaron Lee Stevens “Free Troublez & Tre”
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COMMUNITY
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COMMUNITY
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE NO ONE WINS DURING CANADA POST STRIKE
For many years in Canada, the postal service has held the key to sending and receiving mail for all Canadian citizens. Without the delivery of mail, some people have to do without security checks and other important documents they needed for everyday living. They canÕ t pay bills and often miss out on important news. Times have changed though and many Canadians are using other means to receive all these important services. They no longer depend on the Canadian postal service to meet all their mail needs. In the past, the postal service would threaten to go on strike and everyone would back down because they did not want to do without mail for any length of time. The postal union would have all their demands met with a minimum of disruption. But things are changing and most people have other ways to send and receive the information they need. They do not rely on the postal system like they used to. They can cope without the service and are starting to adapt.
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People have learned to depend on the computer and the internet to get and send anything that is important to them. It is easy and fast and seemingly much more reliable. The internet cannot go on strike and threaten to cut off service. Many people never use the postal service anymore. They have turned to the internet to pay bills, borrow money, sign papers and chat with friends. No need for long lengthy letters. The internet provides it all. Birthday cards, electronic music, e-mails have all taken the place of their counterparts. No need to go to the store to find what you want because it is all online. Direct deposit will put paychecks in the bank and people who depend on government help can also do that electronically. The Postal service has a bleak future and yet they continue to threaten. They seem to forget they are a dying service because they have been replaced by modern technology. They may have had the upper hand in the past, but in todayÕ s world they
are not in the drivers seat. Something they seem to forget. But there are still some people who do not use the internet and are not familiar with computers. They can not afford the service and have never learned to use available technology. In some ways they are operating at a big disadvantag. They need the postal service and depend on it. Older people are the ones who will suffer the most. They are the generation that have not taken advantage of the world of technology. They are at a point in life where they are not going to change. For years they have depended on the postal service and plan on continuing to make it their primary source of getting and receiving the things they need. Small business are also dependent on the service. They use the postal service daily and without it they suffer losses. The postal service should keep that in mind when they think about what a strike does to the Country. Small business have to find other ways of sending and getting the
COMMUNITY things they need during a strike. It can often be very expensive and because they have a small margin for profit, it is a very bad place for them to be in. At some point they will be able to work online and receive all payments, but for now they are still dependent on the postal service. They will catch up in a short amount of time though and the postal service will be a thing of the past for them. Most people do not want to see the demise of the postal service. They know it is valuable and for some people it is their way of staying in touch with the world. People on both sides of the issue agree that the postal service is something that Canada still needs and there is great value in what they provide. Union workers might be unrealistic to ask for a wage increase. The increase would come over the next four years. They plan on lower pay and benefits for new employees. The biggest problem with any kind of increase is that over the past few years, there has been a decline in mail all over the world. It is not just in Canada. Every country is experiencing the same problem. People are changing the way they send and receive. The postal service has had a lot to contend with in the past few years. Cell phones have become popular and most people do not write letters anymore. It is easier to grab the cell and make a call. Texting is also part of the competition. Fax machines also changed ways people sent and received important documents. Legal documents and signatures can be sent in a matter of minutes. The internet is the biggest threat to the postal service, but up until the last few years, it had continued to sustain the competition. Things are changing
though and the postal service is losing ground all over the world. It is not just a Canadian problem. Most people agree that it is ashamed that the government has had to get involved. It is the general feeling that the intervention will only worsen the situation. Most Canadians are angry and are not sure who is responsible for the disruption in using the service. They no longer are dependent on the postal service, but for the people who are, it is a very difficult situation. With the silliness of the government involvement, there are a lot of confusing issues. The NDP reports that the party would like to hold up the legislation which would put the postal workers back to work. Jack Layton, who is the leader of the NDP is causing this major hold up. He and his party are planning a filibuster. It will delay the work that needs to go on in the house of commons. A filibuster is simply when different people get up in the legislature and give long speeches. They can talk about anything that they like and simply put, it is a way of taking up time. No one is the winner when that happens. Most people do not want to waste precious time and just want to solve this issue. Jack and his followers are causing a lot of confusion in the legislature, and it seems to be for the sole reason of flexing some opposition muscle. When things like this happen, no one wins. The postal workers are losing money by striking. They have families and children to support and not having a paycheck will be a hardship for them. Older people will be without needed mail and income checks. Small businesses will have added hardships by using other means
of sending and receiving the mail they need. It is certainly a time for a simple solution. The government needs to expedite the process and people who are trying to hamper the passing of this bill need to rethink what they are doing. Are they trying to serve the best interest of the Country or are they serving themselves? There is a lot to think about and most Canadians are willing to wait. And wait they will because no one is willing to budge. The old saying the mail will get through is not holding true. But for now, while the Country is waiting, people in power need to work for the good of the Country of Canada. After all that is what it is all about. The best for the Country. We all want fair wages for postal workers, benifets, and job security. It would be great if both parties could reach mutually benifical agreements while staying on the job. That would be by far the best solution and I for one am in agreement that workers should have a right to dispute what they consider unfair conditions until the situation is resolved. However, when the industry in question is an integral part of the Canadian economy and well being of their citizens, the government also should have the right to do what is best for the collective good. Hopefully this is all resovled soon but even if it is, the damage has been done on all sides and I have to wonder if the Canadian Postal Service will ever recover. Editors Note: As of this printing legislation was passed and Canada Post employees are back to work and the mail is slowly moving forward. However, plans are in place for the Union to go to court to overturn the legislation. I guess itÕ s to be continued. NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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COMMUNITY
By LoonKwe
Family Activity Day 2011
June 25, 2011 was Family Activity Day brought to you by the Aboriginal Awareness Week Committee. The day long event was a moment for families, friends and children to come together to enjoy activities, performances, food and local resources. With the help of partnering local agencies, many volunteers and dedicated community members the Family Activity Day was a wonderful event for all. The activity filled day began early on the Saturday morning with Tipis being set up, vendors preparing their Indian tacos and other delicious fried foods, and volunteers manning their stations and delegating their roles. In one area of Shaw Millennium Park was the First People’s Art Market that had tables of beautiful traditional art work made by local crafts peoples. To the left of the Market area was the Resource Fair, a place for guests to check out local resources for education, employment, childcare and to build partnerships. These areas and their workers were available all day, and with the beautiful sunny weather that demonstrated great commitment. Another awesome opportunity available was the Kids Aboriginal Craft Centre, a spot where children would make traditional crafts, get their face painted and play traditional games with other youth from the Calgary area. This was offered from 11am until 3pm during the same time at which the Aboriginal Entertainment Stage was impressing the crowds of spectators. Entertainment throughout the day consisted of MC Jason Goodstriker humouring the audience as performers such as the Red Star Woman & Whirlwind Warriors, The Brothaz Grimm, Joey Cappo and Dallas Arcand hit the main stage. The highlight of the afternoon wasn’t just the Elder’s corner where local Elders sat at the Red Cross-Tipi of Courage educating the community with their story telling, but the Children’s Initiation Pow Wow. Dancers young and old came to participate in initiating children into the Pow Wow world. This year’s Pageant Princess winner was Jasmine Crowchief and the Little Warrior winner was Piita Crazybull. Congratulations to them on their hard work and dedication, and to all the little ones that came out to represent their talents and dance their hearts out to the beat of the Pow Wow Drum. At the end of it all the 2011 Family Activity Day was a great success. With a good turnout of families and friends, fun activities, great food, awesome performances and most importantly enriching traditions and culture this was a great way to cap off Aboriginal Awareness Week in Calgary. A community such as our own should be extremely thrilled and grateful that we can indulge and represent our heritage for an entire week, demonstrating the beauty and power Indigenous people have in our society. Thank you to the Aboriginal Awareness Week committee, partners, sponsors, volunteers, families and friends that made this year National Aboriginal Day and Aboriginal Awareness Week the best Calgary has ever seen! Until next year, stay proud!
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TALENT
STACIE HIMMELSPECK NEW TRIBE JULY 2011
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BEATS
Turn up the Volume By Katty Jo Rabbit
City and Color Little Hell
Leave it to multi- tasked and partially manic Dallas Green to be able to stay awake all night writing lyrics, sing for Alexis on Fire, and complete projects like Gasoline Rainbows all while promoting a newly released album; with great results to boot. It must be so nice to be so passionate about what you do, and make a living at it. Kids pay attention to the life and work of this fellow, he is an inspiration to us all. Because all his hard work has paid off, again. Be sure to catch him at this yearÕ s Calgary Folk Music Festival, he is to set the stage Thursday July 21,2011. This year Dallas and his band of rotating band mates have created a great album with some stellar standouts, some summer driving songs, and summer snagging songs. WouldnÕ t it be great if you heard a City and Color song translated to a hand drum song, someone please do this, the Urban Aboriginal community will thank you. Dallas himself will most likely thank you and if youÕ re really lucky bet you anything he would invite you onstage. Let us just hope he is not a racist, just kidding, considering his level on intellect that shouldnÕ t be an issue. It is so great to know that Dine alone records and the government of Canada are spending their funds wisely, investing in our creative juices that hold our society together. Now that the soap box is gone, the music itself is the real issue, the way it makes you feel, the way it creates a perfect moment, how it helps you heal, the real experience ; it all melds itself into your soul. It makes you realize that you, yes you too can share in the joy that is making music, which is what the best thing is about this album. It proves that Dallas Green and his music have begun to evolve, that he has been able to keep his style, sound, and flair intact without losing the enthusiasm that most artists lose after touring with two bands. It has also become stronger in the way it hits you meaning the music. At the same time it doesnÕ t get to heavy. Or too lonely, when it gets too lonely it makes it feel too empty and then the whole connection is lost, because youÕ re too focused on you. Though, he is able to capture this moment, our senses, he is able to connect with you on a humanistic level; he is also able to evoke universal emotions. Looks like Gord Downey has some real competition, finally! It has been a long time coming.
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BEATS
Music You Can Feel In Your Toes Foster the People Torches
It has finally arrived the full length album to make up for the EP teaser we were exposed to sometime last year. Or was it the beginning of this year? All you should know is that you can finally check out the rest of the album and decide for yourself if you are going to become a faithful follower, or a hipster with a one track mind and track listing. With good kicks, lyrics, and disco funk, the album definitely is ear catching; and just in time for the summer months. It would be a mortal sin if you didnÕ t listen to the rest of the album, it is always good to check everything out before you commit, this works for relationships too. DonÕ t forget to check out the personÕ s family history, previous breakout moments, and where they started from. This way you will know the patterns and if you like them enough everything else wonÕ t matter. This is what they tried to do for sure with the teaser; the only thing with this is with the teaser of the EP there is a lingering feeling of expectation. The ten songs that you are provided with still are not enough to satisfy the craving for some really cool and downright ultraistic summer jams. If you are one of those types who doesn’t take music seriously as others do, than this will suffice, most people don’t buy cdÕ s any more, anyways. With the IPod generation ruining the quality of albums as artists would say, it is hard to really make a stand out album, because no one listens to the whole thing, everyone is looking for that one great song. With that kudos to the great marketing team of Foster the people. They were able to get across the real purpose of the music, which is to share the music with others, as many as you can, and putting your best songs forward leads for great hype. It also leaves you with cotton mouth after you hear the rest. The song Houdini is most likely the only song they forgot to add to the EP. Right now it is the song that is on constant repeat, one lyric that rings true is Ò sometimes I just wanna disappearÓ god doesnÕ t every one want to disappear? Other than that lyrically the album falls short, but the fact that piano, disco rhythms and catchy funk beats tag along for the ride will decipher if they will fade away or just fade. It seems lately that most bands like MGMT get into this industry knowing that careers are short lived and put their all into the first album hoping that it will lead into a greater existence when in all actuality it is about standing the test of time, when you are not really sure what to sing along to, it doesnÕ t make for good outdoor shows when you have hundreds singing to the wrong lyrics. This is a personal pet peeve only because yours truly is guilty of this always. Chalk it up to being front and centre to some really wicked awesome, amped up concerts with overzealous vocalists. Either way if you havenÕ t heard it already then do yourself a favor, while you do the rest of your summer in a carefree fashion, enjoy every single moment and then move on still being mindful of the music that is influencing your adventures
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MOVIES
See You at the Movies Starring Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordana Brewster Justin Lins latest entry in the Fast and Furious franchise, Fast Five provides some of the most fun that the action series has seen to date. With Chris Morgan drifting the film partially away from racing and more along the lines of a traditional action film, the movie seems fresher even as it goes old-school with the cast. Vin Diesel and company provide the screen presence with Dwayne Johnson making up for Paul Walkers meek offering. Lin is a confident action director who makes the high-speed action scenes clear and exciting, and easily the most fun action set pieces in the series to date.
Fast Five
This is the kind of giant and over-the-top adrenaline ride that action has been missing. By no means is this a great film or an immediate classic, but it makes for an enjoyable experience. The change in tone is sure to give this series new life and for the first time in a long while, that does not seem like such a bad thing. To those who have enjoyed the past films, this is a must see. Those who gave up on the franchise itÕ s highly recommended you give this one a chance.
Starring Aaron Eckhart, Ramon Rodriquez, Will Rothhaar This movie has received bad ratings due to the fact that the characters are forgettable and the script is not very imaginative. This movie isnÕ t meant to be another Independence Day with rallying speeches and attempts to bring tears to your eyes. It strikes me more as a war movie than science fiction. The acting is okay, Aaron Eckharts performance carries the weight of it. As for the visuals, they are absolutely stunning. ItÕ s amazing that they were able to work the brilliant CGI (which does not appear CGI at all, but rather as real-time footage). It looks like it was filmed on an actual field of combat. It’s fast paced.
Battle: Los Angeles
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You donÕ t get to know many characters, but the story is about dealing with the situation. Another large complaint about this movie is the shaky camera action and use of what appears to be handheld cameras. Shaky camera is something that some people like some donÕ t, it is more a matter of opinion than critiquing. If you like Black Hawk Down, if you love war movies and science fiction flicks you should see this movie. Go in with an open mind and youÕ ll enjoy it.
See You at the Movies
MOV IES
Starring Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Abbie Cornish With a reality-within-a-reality narrative, this film tells the story of a woman who is placed in a mental asylum. Which then within her imagination becomes a 50s-era brothel and then again within her imagination becomes a setting for various action sequences. The post-structural comment on reality and imagination is quite interesting, hearkening themes explored by Christopher Nolan and David Lynch. These filmmakers are more concerned with substance and story than style. By contrast, Zack Snyders film does very little with these themes. It might have been interesting had the realities not been so exactly matched. In each reality a map is a map.
Sucker Punch
As it is, the action sequences, which in the 50s nightclub reality correspond to a hypnotic dance routine by Babydoll, seem disassociated from the rest of the story. And Wise Mans cliché words of encouragement before each slow motion fight scene are just as perplexing as the scenes themselves. After all, why are these characters suddenly fighting in World War I-style trenches against robots and then fighting them again on an entirely different planet? Overall, it seems like there was a good idea here, but it got lost in Snyders obsession with stylistic nonsense.
Starring Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, Timothy Olyphant Rango - Rango has changed the game for animated films. While there are lots of cool looking critters, funny voices and enough energetic shenanigans here to placate or even entertain kids, this movie was unquestionably made with wit, subtlety and knowledge for adults. It’s a fun and stunningly gorgeous film that has a type of computer animation we’ve never seen before. Really spectacular character design going on here, with amazing use of textures, coupled with gorgeous cinematography (which was supervised by legendary cinematographer Roger Deakins) Johnny Depp goes above and beyond the call of duty, giving us a kooky, nuanced, highly energetic performance.
Rango
The rest of the voice cast is very good, all doing variations on classic western drawls. The story is pretty simple. A small town has run out of water, its most valuable commodity, and itÕ s up to Rango to get their water back. The story follows some Unlikely Hero archetypes but the scenery and animation more than make up for the by-the-numbers plot. The dialogue in particular is like nothing we have ever seen in an animated film, but it’s still funny and clever. This movie is a knock out western and quite the sophisticated kidsÕ movie.
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LITERA LLY
Book Reviews For the restless mind The Hungry Time by Selwyn Dewdney, The Hungry Time by Selwyn Dewdney, from the Canadian Kids series, tales of customs during Indian population before migrating and adapting European settlement. This book is about a Mississauga Indian girl named Morning Sky who lives with her family at the mouth of the Humber River. Her family is facing the cold winter months in this unforgiving location and struggles to stay alive. Morning Sky wants to help the men hunt for food but is repeatedly told to she canÕ t because of her gender. After facing a bear to save her brother, Beaver Tail, she is viewed differently by some of the family members while others are reluctant. Although some family members are unwilling to accept her differences than other, they jokingly refer to her as a Ò mighty hunter.Ó Being faced with such harsh conditions including hunger, creates a stronger bond in the family. This unbreakable bond is formed by the family coming together and facing these hardships together. This book is a historical recap of how life was before the development of cultivation and technology. It includes the happy and distressing moments of living and depending on your family for survival and companionship. The Book of Awesome by Neil Pasricha In 2008, Neil Pasricha was going through a very rough time in his life. He and his wife were separating and he was grieving the loss of his best friend who committed suicide. While trying to pick up the pieces and move forward with life, he sold his house and move into a tiny apartment. During this very dark time in his life he decided to think of at least one awesome thing a day and write about it. This began the birth of the blog 1000 Awesome Thing. The blog consists of one different awesome item each day of the week from wearing warm underwear straight out the dyrer to the smell of rain on hot pavement. In the book he mentions such awesome items as the cool side of the pillow, wordless apologies, fixing electronics by smacking them and old dangerous playground equipment. As his blog became more popular, many people offered up awesome additions daily. Parsricha blogged for awhile which earned him many accolades and followers. A couple of years later he received a book deal to record all his awesome things. This book is for the ultimate optimist. It is the light at the end of the tunnel and can help you see the good in any bad day.
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Book Reviews For the restless mind Life by Keith Richards The Rolling Stones leading guitarist, Keith Richards provides an electrifying description of his life in the autobiography, Life. This book provides stimulating accounts of RichardsÕ s life as a member of one of the most famous bad boy bands in the world. Details include the bands humble beginnings and chronicle their journey to becoming the timeless Rolling Stones band. Richards speaks of his infatuation with music and describes how he religiously listened to Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry. He wanted to create his own sound and altered the strings of his guitar to do so. From being on drugs to dating various women, Richards creates a no holds bar memoir recalling his entire life. He also discussed the relationship with his band mates Bryan Jones and Mick Jagger. He revealed the hurt that was felt when Jagger decided to go solo and how fame affected Jones. He discussed the troubles in their friendship but says that through it all they remain as close as brothers. This intense autobiography entails every aspect of Richards throughout the many chaotic years, including his many issues with the law which makes this a must read for all Rolling Stones fans. Heart of Soul: The Lauryn Hill Story by Leah Furman Lauren Hill revolutionized the role of women in Hip Hop while touring the country with The Fugees, creating a solo career and an acting career all while still in high school. Hill details her career, family and personal life in Heart Of Soul: The Lauryn Hill Story. The singer/actress/ rapper and mother of five details how her family structured her into the person she has become. Born into a family of music, where her dad was a singer and brother with many instrumental talents, Hill destined to be a star. Performing her way through elementary and junior high school, she was presented with the opportunity to become a member of the infamous Fugees. Her melodic voice presented acting opportunities and a solo record which earned her 5 grammyÕ s. Her album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill brought a new era to Neo Soul artist. Hill discusses the influences of her children which she has with the fourth son of Bob Marley, Rohan Marley. She wrote songs about both her children son Zion David Hill-Marley and daughter Selah Louise Marley. Heart Of Soul:The Lauryn Hill Story provides insight to who many now know as Lauryn Hill, the actress, singer and rapper.
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HOROSCOPES
HOROSCOPES CENTRAL Cancer June 21- July 22 Firework works will go off in your love life like they do during the Calgary Stampede; make sure your ready! Your Lucky Day: 10th Leo July 23- August 22
Aquarius January 21-February 18
Don’t worry they notice how much of an effort you are exerting, you will be rewarded accordingly.
Watch out sometime people who pretend to be your friends don’t really have your best interest at heart. Your Lucky Day: 19th
Your Lucky Day: 31st
Pisces February 19-March 20
Virgo August 23- September 22
If you’re ready your ready, opportunity may not follow for a long time. Sometime you just need a little push. Your Lucky Day: 06th
You’ve earned a break, sit back and put your feet up. (After you pat yourself on your back of course) Your Lucky Day: 09th
Aries March 21- April 19
Libra September 23- October 22
It is what it is; you can’t do much about it now just learn to live with it.
Go on and talk to that someone you’ve been giving the cold shoulder too, it’s probably been long enough.
Your Lucky Day: 14th
Taurus April 20- May 20
Your Lucky Day: 16th Scorpio October 22- November 21
Everybody falls off the horse every once and awhile, the important thing is to get up brush yourself off and hop back on.
Sometimes things happen for a reason, you didn’t need that someone in your life anyhow.
Your Lucky Day: 27th Gemini May 21- June 20
Your Lucky Day: 5th Sagittarius November 22- December 21
Capricorn December 22- January 20
Be patient they see you looking, sometimes relationships water to blossom. Your Lucky Day: 11th
Take that second to smile at someone who needs it, you have much kindness inside you why not share a little.
Your Lucky Day: 21st
Your Lucky Day: 25th
Switch it up maybe it’s time for that change, you know you’ve been thinking about it for a long time. Your Lucky Day: 2nd
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