FUN FACTS
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BLACKFOOT GRAPHIC NOVEL
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DEALING WITH RACISM
NEW TRIBE magazine SARENA PROVOST GETS INVOLVED
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*MUSIC CHARTS *GEAR UP FOR WINTER *GAME REVIEWS DON AMERO
Free Vol. 9 Issue 7 NOVEMBER 2010 Now Available online www.newtribemagazine.ca
NEW TRIBE
NOTEBOOK from*the*editor Hello New Tribe Readers, Welcome to the November issue of New Tribe Magazine. USAY recently concluded its annual AGM meeting and welcomed some new faces to go along with existing board members. I promise to do the proper i nt roduct ions, and good byes to leaving members, in the next issue.
approved to launch and print the Blackfoot Graphic Novel. This is going to be a huge opportunity for local artists so check out the advertisement on page 27 for information on how to become involved.
Need updates on upcoming USAY and New Tribe Magazine events? Feel free to search us out on Face book and join our growing friends list. We post upcoming In this November issue of New events, submission requirements Tribe, we talk to community and deadlines, and fun stuff leader Sarena Provost on like upcoming movie nights and her involvement with local organizations and the importance book clubs. It is also a great place for youth to become active and to comment on stories or articles stay connected to ongoing events. you wish to see in our upcoming issues. Remembrance day is also this month so please take the time to Do you have an opinion on this reflect on the sacrifices made so issue of New Tribe magazine? that we can live in a free society Good, bad, or ugly send in your where ideas can be exchanged, thoughts and we will print it in and history preserved for future the letters section. generations. MAJOR NEWS ALERT! After six months of sitting on pins and needles waiting, USAY finally got the word that funding was
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Spread the word, and stay true to it. John Medeiros Managing Editor
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 Sicker Program Manager Rachel Paris Executive Assistant Jessica Hawryluk Board of Directors President Jesse Halton Vice-President Amanda Gonet Treasurer Sarena Provost Secretary Cheryl Hanley Directors Ryan Willert Cherokee Blood 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.
Special Thanks to our Community Partners & Funders
CONTENTS
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14
27 NOVEMBER
COVER STORY SARENA PROVOST
10
4
NEWS BRIEFS
19 HEALTH
5
GEAR UP
20
COVER FEATURE
7 WHAT’S GOING ON?
23 WELLNESS
9 TRIBE ART
24
COMMUNITY
10 YOUTH PROGRAM
26
FUN FACTS
12 ON THE TABLE
29
GAME REVIEWS
14 DON AMERO
30
MUSIC REVIEW
16 FICTION
33
LOCAL EVENTS
18 COOL JOBS
37
SMALL SCREEN
PHOTO BY JOHN MEDEIROS
NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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NEWS*BRIEFS
Aboriginal Happenings From Across Canada Aboriginals helpless against H1N1 outbreak OTTAWA -- The chairman of CanadaÕ s provincial chief medical officers of health says Canada’s aboriginal population was overly vulnerable to the H1N1 pandemic because the country has never made improving aboriginal living conditions a priority. Dr. Isaac Sobol, Nunavut’s chief medical officer of health and chair of the Council of Chief Medical Officers of Health in Canada, issued his rebuke during a Senate social affairs committee hearing studying Canada’s pandemic preparedness. The session Thursday was set aside to hear from aboriginal leaders and health providers about the impact H1N1 had in their communities and what lessons were learned. Sobol told the committee H1N1 affected aboriginal populations far more than other Canadians because of the abject poverty, overcrowded housing, poor access to health care and even lack of access to food. “This is an issue I feel, speaking personally, is very shameful for Canada to have
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accepted the status quo of this type of living standard for First Nations, Métis and Inuit in general,” Sobol said. Although aboriginals account for fewer than one in 25 people in Canada, they accounted for more than one in 10 recorded cases of H1N1 during the first wave of the outbreak in 2009. SOURCE - WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Eabametoong First Nation Declares State of Emergency FORT HOPE – The Eabametoong First Nation (Fort Hope) have declared a State of Emergency following a series of violent crimes that have caused community members to fear for their personal safety. Eabametoong First Nation is a remote, fly-in only community of more than 1200 people located in Northern Ontario. Since January of 2010, the First Nation has suffered three homicides, several other violent incidents including the mutilation of animals, and more than forty-seven arsons. Even more cause for concern is that the perpetrators of many of these crimes have been identified as children and youth.
One arson attack resulted in the closure of the First Nation’s school due to smoke damage, leaving local children without a learning facility. Other arson attacks have been committed against local families while they are sleeping in their homes. The community was also left without water for five days recently following a break-in into the water treatment facility in the First Nation. Community leaders were forced to shut off the water supply over concern that drinking water had been contaminated. Chief Lewis Nate of Eabametoong First Nation says; “The situation in our community has escalated out of control and is now so serious that many people sleep with a fire extinguisher beside them, fearful that their home could be set on fire next. No one should have to live like this, it’s devastating. The people of Eabametoong are committed to working together to do whatever is needed to bring safety and order back to our community. But we can’t do it alone; we are desperate for outside help.” SOURCE - NETNEWSLEDGER.COM
What’s Going On? NOVEMBER,2010 Nov 3 - 7 Manito Ahbee Festival Winnipeg, MB www.manitoahbee.com Nov 4 Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards Winnipeg, MB www.aboriginalpeopleschoice. com Nov 4 Gear Up For Winter Knox United Church 2-5:30 pm 506 4th St. S.W. Calgary, AB Nov 4 - 8 GIRAF Independent Animation Festival Calgary, AB www.giraffest.ca/ Nov 5 School of Hard Knocks 9 Century Casino Calgary, AB www.hardknocksfighting.com Nov 6 Stone Temple Pilots Stampede Corral Calgary, AB
Nov 11 Remembrance Day Canada Nov 13 All Nations Alumni Native Art & Craft Show Capenters Hall Calgary, AB Nov 14 - 15 National Aboriginal Addictions Awareness Week Edmonton, AB www. addictionsawareness. com Nov 15 2010 Wellness Walk Calgary, AB www. addictionsawareness. com
Calgary Flames
11/03/2010 07:30 PM Detroit Red Wings @ Calgary Flames 11/17/2010 07:30 PM Phoenix Coyotes @ Calgary Flames 11/19/2010 07:00 PM Chicago Blackhawks @ Calgary Flames 11/29/2010 07:00 PM Minnesota Wild @ Calgary Flames 12/01/2010 07:30 PM Vancouver Canucks @ Calgary Flames
Calgary YMCA Rec night Every Tuesday 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Nov 19 - 21 Metis Fest 2010 Calgary, AB Nov 25 Alberta 2011: A Bright Future for Aboriginal Business The Fairmont Palliser Calgary, AB www.ccab.com/alberta___a_ bright_future If you have an event you’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 DECEMBER/JANUARY issue: NOVEMBER 26
NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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TRIBE*art
NEW TRIBE ARTIST PROFILE DEBRA TACAN Thanks for talking with us at New Tribe magazine, can you let our readers know a little bit about you and your background? You’re very welcome!! I am of Ojibway/ Saulteaux and Dakota decent, I’m 42 years old and have been married for over 19 years. I am originally from the Swan Lake First Nation, but for the past 15 years I’ve resided on the Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, which is in the southwestern part of Manitoba. I live there with my husband Kevin, and where we have a small horse farm. He and I share a passion for keeping the traditional arts and designs alive as well as incorporating contemporary styles, and coming up with new and innovative ideas. We both follow a clean traditional way of life, as we both are drug free, alcohol free, and tobacco free, we only use tobacco in the traditional way. How did you get into working on your crafts? Training? Growing up, I have always had the passion to create things with my hands, as I used to watch my grandmother bead when I was a child. No one in my immediate family did these kinds of crafts, therefore; I did not learn these skills until I was in my early 30’s. My husband and his family have given me the support and encouragement to do various projects these past years.
What is the process you go through to create some of your art? Sometimes designs come to me in dreams, or my husband and I collaborate and come up with different designs. I always have to be in a good frame of mind while working on pieces. I smudge and pray for the wearer of the piece and their family that they have good health. I also make offerings and have given away pieces as a part of my Thank You that I’m able to quill. Our adopted brother’s family shared their quillwork knowledge with us, and adopted us into the quillwork society. I have heard you’re quite the accomplished dancer. Do you still compete and can you tell us more about that? Yes, I dance the Women’s Northern Traditional Buckskin. Upon completing my fully beaded outfit over 4 years ago, I started to compete at various pow wows, dance at award shows, and pow wow demonstrations. In September 2006, my husband and I were fortunate enough to take part of the motion picture “Elijah” which was being filmed at the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg. They required pow wow dancers, so we appeared in this movie with our pow wow outfits. The past few years we’ve travelled to many pow wows all over Canada and the US. I’m proud to say that I’ve done very well, placing at
most pow wows I’ve danced at, got 1st place quite a few times, and also placed at the “Gathering of Nations Pow Wow” in Albuquerque in 2008. I am very fortunate to have many legendary pow wow dancers and families as friends. When you’re not creating works of art, and dancing, what do you enjoy doing? I enjoy travelling, pow wows, swimming, walking, and going to museums. How can someone reach you to purchase your fantastic art pieces? They can reach me at debra_st@yahoo. com, or add me (Debra Soldier-Tacan) on facebook where I have pictures of my craft pieces on my page. What advice can you give to any youth looking at pursuing creating this type of art as a career? I encourage our youth to live a clean and healthy lifestyle so the gifts of quillwork societies and others can be passed down. Without the respect and appreciation of our traditional designs and methods, we will lose a little bit of culture and history that goes along with these gifts.
NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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COMMUNITY
ABORIGINAL FRIENDSHIP CENTRE OF CALGARY YOUTH PROGRAM Last month the AFC asked New Tribe to take some photos of the young aspiring models registered in the Youth Program they are running at the centre. The following are some of the photos taken at the shoot and showcase the growth of the program which also trains the students in fashion and life skills. If the images peak your interest please contact Lawrence Gervais lgervais@afccalgary.org for more information. Model jewellery supplied by Debra Tacan
Melissa Kaye
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Natasha Labelle NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
Cheyenne Melting Tallow
Jade Lace
COMMUNITY
Hazel Plante
Cheylena Lerat
Rebecca Morse
Ronna Whitehawk
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FLAVOR
On the Table Elodie Caron Gnocchi, otherwise known as little potato dumplings, Italian style. I always thought they were hard to make, but they’re suprisingly easy. A few more steps than just cooking up some spaghetti from a box, sure, but the extra effort always tastes better anyway. You need: Ingredients - this makes enough for 6 - 8 people 3 pounds potatoes (any kind will work) 1 egg 2 teaspoons salt 1 to 2 cups flour Equipment Large saucepan Bowl Surface for kneading You can boil the potatoes, with the skins on, if you prefer, but I read that baking them keeps them from absorbing too much liquid (which will be bad when you try to make a dough) so I decided to try it that way instead. Once the potatoes were cooked through, I let them cool before peeling the skins off and mashing them backwards through a cheese grater.This gives you the right texture and gets out any lumps that would cause problems later. In a bowl, mix together the potatoes, salt and egg. On a clean surface, pile the flour and turn the potato mixture out on top. Knead the flour into the potatoes, adding flour as you go, until you have a smooth, slightly sticky dough that holds together on its own. Cut the dough into 4 equal pieces, and roll each piece into a rope about an inch thick. Cut the rope into small pieces, roughly the size of a walnut, or the end of your thumb. At this point, you can cook the gnocchi as is or, if you want to get fancy, roll the pieces over the back side of a fork, to give them the little ridges that will hold the sauce when they’re ready to eat. Put the finished pieces on a baking sheet dusted with flour, to keep them from sticking, until they’re all ready. Gnocchi cook like pasta, in a pot of salted, boiling water.They don’t need to cook nearly as long, though, so you have to keep an eye on them. If you overcook them, they’ll be tough and chewy, and if you undercook, they’ll be mushy. Once they float to the top of the pot, they’re done. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and let them drain before transferring them to a plate or bowl. If you make more than you need, you can freeze the extras, which will keep for about a month. Serve the gnocchi with butter and herbs or tomato sauce, with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
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FLAVOR
On the Table
NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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COMMUNITY
DON AMERO IS THE REAL DEAL 14
NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
COMMUNITY
by John Medeiros Anything that gets me out of the office is a good thing so I was especially happy to escape and head down to the Blind Beggar Pub to catch the CD release party for the new Don Amero album The Long Way Home.
that defining moment that many artists get?
Absolutely. I was working my day job and it came to the point that on September 15,2007 that my feet were just dragging and I told my boss that music is my calling, I Don Amero is a singer/songwriter have to follow it. I haven’t looked from Winnipeg, Manitoba. As I sit back since. in the dark lounge waiting for the show to begin I passed the time Did your decision get a reading Don’s bio from the press lot of support from your kit sent to me earlier. His bio family? It seems like a very states that in 2007 he quit his day big decision. job of being a hardwood installer to pursue his passion for music full My family was very much on board. They saw the talent in me time. and believed in where this all could He has been classified as a Pop/ go. I couldn’t do this without their Folk musician but took a more wonderful support. Country approach to his new CD. Now, those that know me will say What is the best/worst I‘m not a big fan of Country music part of travelling to support but what I can say is that after your music? hearing Don’s set that I’m now a big fan of his. This guy can sing. The best part is getting out to see Normally anyone that tries to the country, seeing the audience cover Where the Streets Have No build as I continue the tour. The Name automatically gets entered hardest part is being away from in my bad books but he pulled it home and my wife. off and did it will style. You may not have heard of him now but What advice can you give believe me, with talent like his he other Aboriginal youth in pursuing is going to be huge. Don was nice interested enough to answer a few questions music as a career? before his set began. Get involved in the Aboriginal Why the switch to a more Music Program. It’s a great Ò CountryÓ sound for this resource where Aboriginal artist can network and connect with CD? opportunities. Also, tell your Being independent allows me to honest stories in your music and experiment with whatever sound don’t try and be something you’re is inside me at the moment. Lately not. Above all, keep trying. I have been listening to a lot more country and at this period in my Thanks for taking the time life, it seemed like a good direction to talk to our readers. Any final words to your fans? to go with on this album.
and internationally. I appreciate everyone who supports my shows and listens to the music. To check out Don Amero, and purchase his music, please visit www.donamero.com
When did you realize that It’s been a great journey to this music was the right career point and I look forward to many path for you? Did you have more years of touring nationally NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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FICTION
HIS HEART
Amanda Marie Louise Fox
His heart was something like a crab. Tough on the outside and protected in. His outer shell was a production for his environment survival. The place of his birth gave his heart this protection he needed to face the world he pursued. Although there is a shell on the crab that protects the tenderness inside it is of much needed importance, but what really mattered was the fact that there were no bones beneath the shell. The insides were completely softly sweet and completely grown. He can be described as a hard covered book with no title, and many pages. A certain mystique was about him, and you would never guess his age. Whenever he was quiet for a long period of time he would be writing in his endless book of pages. His mind was like an insect’s body, always adapting and constantly evolving. Ants are an ancient species and haven’t really changed their structure. They can survive days or weeks even without food or water. It was in theory that ants will live on after humans died in a nuclear world war. Ants would be a creature of choice for
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a survival body. His mind was not only functioning like an ant, It was also like a pomegranate, because it had many pockets of seeds of information, juices to be devoured by the whole seed. It was greatly connected to his heart. They both worked in sync with the body to which was the outcome much desired by a human. The heart was a different function on its own. The heart had a mind also, but his heart wasn’t like the mass of the other humans, because it was smaller, more condense, more strong and lean. Large hearts are irregular and sometimes can not beat enough to provide the much needed blood for its body. His heart was actively functioning under its protected shell. No one would know such a heart unless they have been under the shell, or threw it without breaking it. She had this special power. His imaginary invisible type of power can only have been experienced to be seen or felt. But, this power was not something that could be turned on like a switch of a light. She was
‘like’ light or music to him, because she touched him without touch. Her music was like an orchestra of his favorite instruments. She played his favorite songs. She didn’t know she was playing for him, but she knew it was for someone special. She was playing what she felt inside. She was feeling cold inside, but it was what he liked, and it was beautiful to him. She can be described as a cat, and a kind one at that. She was a quiet and fluffy cat that everyone cuddled. The girl traveled everywhere, and she experienced much. She was once loved and learned that it was good, but she was still learning and felt that there was more out there. She felt a deep friendship, but not a further connection. She has dreamed the new feeling, and felt its presents in her heart. She was seeking it, but not. Her idea on love was just an idea because she hasn’t allowed herself to feel it in the flesh, but only in the mind. An idea is not reality, and is not solid, but a belief. Her heart couldn’t feel attachment to another. She never cried a union, and she said allowed to herself “there is no true love. It
FICTION It can’t be given in gifts, gold mines or anything sort of glittered material.” And she knew this because she feels what she experiences first. That’s why she played her music, because it was something from within her showing itself out to the world. What she wanted to be was everything that he would hate in a way, because if he stayed, so she thought, it would be true. It was no way to test something real, but it was her way in her own little world. She thought his actions and attractions would show that she felt for her without force of any kind. The feeling was it, and if she allowed herself to go that distance.
by the swings and then she reached out her hand for him to feel her touch. They held hands and smiled at each other. She looked at the sky and seen a shooting star that was ever so blue. All her wishes came true. For a while they didn’t speak a word. They just walked through the forest as she led him. He wasn’t the type to let his heart take over his mind he was so stone cold and closed, but she melted his ice. In that instant they grew whole. Since she was in him she had the power to unleash his inner strength. He was saving his potency. He is a solid man in his ways, but the exquisite girl mixed him up in the middle of his ways, but in the best ways. She was the light in his chest, and he was the The first time they met was in day in her night. the park. By accident, or chance. It was at night. It just finished raining heavy. The ground was He listened carefully and followed still wet and it smelt of freshly cut her sound. He trialed, but no green grass. The moon was out. game was being played by her. The stars were brightly shining. She knew already knew him a bit, A beautiful perfect night it was. because they were same in a way. He took another route from his She knew his every second move, late night home from work. He because it was the move she would was thinking about life in general, make, and the other way was his. nothing heavy. Instead of going The unfortunate thing about her to usual train ride home he was her chains. She needed help. walked threw the forested park. Her chains on her bound at the He walked on the path. He first feet with an iron ring as she stood saw her on the swings. She was on a rock. The rock was on the wearing a white hoodie with light bottom of the ocean with all the blue jeans. She stared at him with beautiful fishes surrounding her. her mysterious brown eyes and She had the ability to leave it but they twinkled and pierced into she had to take the rock with her. his captivated eyes. They both She could breathe under water instantly began to develop a deep but couldn’t see where she was. infatuation with one another. He When she spoke of it, no one had loved her eyes. He sat beside her seen such place. He had told her
once, “it was all leaves on your feet babe, and I blew them away for you” he whispered in her ear. He knew too. He knew all about her. There was no game at all. Not even a court whatsoever. He figured it would amuse her of what he already known. As he sat beside her he put his arms around her tight and spoke softly, “You and I can get right, girl we can win any fight.” She looked into his eyes and replied, “Don’t worry about us ever, because we already are at the ending together. When your eyes are bleeding out, and when the words just don’t come round, you know, I know, just what to say.” They knew what was in their hearts. They weren’t always together, because they were not to meet so soon. There was a special purpose in their lives to meet at a right time, but who’s to say what’s right? No one. They were the beginning of everything to come and make ends meet. He never came off nice. His heart was the only thing she seen. No one understood him. It was like he was a young runaway. He was like a stone most times. She wasn’t the angelic girl most failed to try seeing in her, but through both struggles in sight they have grown together to see the love they stored for each other. Together they reigned over the stormy weather. They built a little a house enough for the both of them. They lived day by day and from one to another. It was an amazing and new exploration for the both of them. Just in time.
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COOL JOBS PROFILE Chantal Chagnon AARM Coordinator
What is your name and job title? (Where do you work?) My name is Chantal Chagnon, and my cool job is as the Aboriginal Anti-Racism Movement (AARM) Coordinator for The Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY). It’s a pretty awesome place to work, great people and a fantastic job to have, I absolutely love it. What does your job consist of? What doesn’t it consist of? I wear many hats in my position, I do presentations and visit schools, recruit youth for the program. I act as a liaison between the youth, USAY, All Nations Theatre and the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers, making sure everyone is on track and on the same page. I work with fantastic people from ANT and CSIF; it’s so rewarding working together and with the youth to create something amazing. Bring insight and experience from backgrounds in Theatre, Film and advocacy for youth and human rights into a malleable, fun format. Sharing aboriginal culture, stories and songs, not to mention making awesome food to share, as that is a major part of my Cree heritage, feasting and eating, nom noms. Did I mention mountains of paperwork and loads of driving around? Not that I’m complaining, I love the challenge of having so many different tasks that keep me on my toes and make use of many of my skills and abilities. What sort of education do you need to get into this type of work?
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I’m probably not the person to ask about Education. Although I’m an advocate for education, most of my skills are self taught. I’m a wizard when it comes to MS Word, Excel & Powerpoint, mainly because I play with computer programs until I figure everything out. I’ve never been one to shy away from public speaking either, and even have theatre and film experience under my belt. I’ve worked with youth and kids in many different avenues, but other than getting some first aid courses and gaining my level two in Child Care, I have yet to get a formal Education. I’m in the process of chipping away at some University courses, part time whenever I can and eventually hope to gain a degree in Performance Arts and Education. What I’ve found with this position is the broader your experience in many fields, the more adaptable you are to any situation thrown at you. I like to call it professional improv. How long have you been doing this job? Since September 1st of this year, I was so happy to find something so perfect for me. I was stressed because I had been looking for work for since March, applying for at 10-20 jobs every day. But Creator had a plan, and this was it. I love being here, every day I feel blessed and feel like I’m making a real difference with the youth, in the community, and in the world. Why did you get into this type of work? I’ve always been an advocate for youth, diversity and human rights. I have also have been involved with theatre and film for
many years. To bring everything together in harmony is just an incredible opportunity. What is your favorite thing about your job? My favourite part of the job has to be interacting with the youth, they are such an amazing group of young people and I am honoured to be working with them. I learn so much from them and love sharing my experience and knowledge with them. Not to mention we have an absolute blast playing theatre games and sharing stories.
What are the challenges within your job? Sometimes it gets a bit chaotic with so many different tasks jammed all together with tight deadlines. Some days I run on coffee and adrenaline, but it’s pretty awesome once everything gets done and falls into place. I feel so proud and amazed with what gets accomplished in a day, often dancing around and yelling “BOOYAH” when things finally get done. What advice do you have for any other youth interested in this position? Be your awesome self, honest, ethical, and optimistic. Bring all your skills to the table, and never be afraid to try something different. Adaptability and positivity is what makes a difference between rockin’ it and losing your biscuit.
HEALTH
SUPER FOODS THAT WILL BOOST YOUR METABOLISM Jolene Frayne-Callihoo Super foods are described as foods high in phytonutrients which are health protective substances in plant foods - fruits, vegetables and grains. Plants naturally produce these substances to protect themselves against disease. Phytonutrients are believed to enhance the body’s natural line of defences against diabetes, some cancers and heart disease. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar speeds up metabolism when consumed regularly before meals and if used in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise program it can be a powerful aid in keeping your weight under control.. Apple cider vinegar helps in digestion and metabolism of food. If the metabolic activity increases, then more food is used to get energy and less of it is stored as fat. So if you want to lose or maintain your weight, use apple cider vinegar. The best method is to use it in its natural liquid form. You can also use it in salad dressings, rice, and as a hot or cold beverage sweetened with natural honey. Try and consume about 2-3 tablespoons before each meal (250ml per day). On the positive side, it only has 30 calories per 250ml! Grapefruit Research has found that people who eat half a grapefruit with each meal in a 12-week period can lose an average of 3.6 pounds, even if they do not have a regular exercise regime. The research indicates that the unique chemical properties in this vitamin C-packed citrus fruit reduce insulin levels, which promotes weight loss and helps in boosting metabolism. So if you want to speed up your weight loss, eat grapefruit and exercise – it only has 100 calories per whole grapefruit consumed! NOTE: If you are taking any medication, check with your doctor about any potentially adverse interactions with grapefruit. Green Tea Studies show that green tea helps you lose weight by increasing your body’s metabolism. Green tea helps you burn an extra 80 calories a day which adds up to 8lbs a year. Green tea also helps to reduce cravings and decrease appetite. Try drinking a cup of green tea each morning and a cup in the afternoon to help reduce the chances of over eating and boost your energy levels.
Eggs Yes, I said it – EGGS! They are NOT bad for you, they are a good choice for boosting metabolism because they are high in protein. Protein takes more work for the body to digest, therefore burning more calories during the process. According to Weight Loss Resources, a study performed by the Rochester Centre for Obesity proved that eating eggs for breakfast helped women lose weight. In this study, two groups of women consumed the same amount of calories and protein every morning. One group ate bagels, and the other group ate a two-egg breakfast. The egg group reported feeling less hungry at lunchtime despite consuming the same amount of calories, and consumed over 400 calories less than the bagel group over the next 36 hours. the group that ate the eggs five mornings a week lost 65 percent more weight after eight weeks, and also lost almost twice the amount of inches from their waistline. Two eggs are equal to 1 serving of your daily protein intake and they are around 70 calories per egg. Almonds Almonds are loaded with good fats, fibre and protein. Since almonds have such great essential fatty acids, they help your body raise it’s metabolism just by ingesting them. Obviously ANY FAT has a high calorie content so be sure to have only a few almonds every day (about 10 - 17). You can also mix these up with pine, cashews and walnuts as they also contain a very healthy amount of good fats and antioxidants. Garlic Garlic has the ability to break down fat, increasing metabolism. Individuals who carry more fat in their bodies tend to have a slower metabolism rate than people who are muscular. Eating garlic helps to lower unhealthy fats in the blood that lead to high cholesterol levels. Garlic also works to reduce fat in the body’s fat cells and the oils in garlic helps to loosen fat and flush it from your body. In addition, ingesting garlic raises your body temperature, helping to stimulate your body’s ability to burn fat more efficiently. If your body temperature begins to drop, your body responds by storing fat to help raise the temperature back up. Try using 2-3 cloves in stir fries, spaghetti,
and salads. Warning: The more you mince the garlic, the more ‘gas’ you will have so if you want to avoid this, chop it in larger pieces. Blueberries Blueberries have been scientifically proven to boost your metabolism. A study at the University of Michigan found those who ate a cup (250ml) of blueberries a day had less fat than those who did not. Blueberries contain a powerful antioxidant named Anthocyanin that may promote weight loss. It has also been shown that consuming blueberries actually reduces your food cravings! Apples You know what they say – an apple a day keeps the doctor away! Apples offer similar benefits to grapefruits in that they are high in fibre – which requires the body to burn more calories than other foods. Apples are also low in calories and have a low GI (Glycemic Index) rating, meaning that they will help you feel full for longer and preventing you from overeating. Spinach Spinach offers a huge amount of benefits to your body including a significant boost to your metabolism. Spinach is a fantastic source of antioxidants, potassium, iron, magnesium and vitamin C. It also contains fibre, which in a similar way to apples and grapefruit, helps increase the metabolism by allowing your body to burn more calories. Eat one to two servings of spinach every day. Spinach contains an antioxidant called flavonoid, which can boost your metabolic rate in a short amount of time, enabling you to burn unwanted fat quickly. Add spinach leaves to salads or steam them. Why not switch your usual lettuce in your sandwiches for some spinach? Yogurt Yogurt has many health benefits, and is a good source of vitamin B12 for vegetarians. It contains high amount of protein levels, and to break these proteins down, the body needs to generate a lot of heat and hence yogurt is among the top foods that burn fat and increase metabolism. Also, yogurt helps in regulating your digestive system. So keep having a medium bowl of plain yogurt on a daily basis. NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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COVER FEATURE
Sarena Provost talks about community involvment
Can you tell our readers a little about yourself and background?
Okii niitaniikoo Maatsowakii, I’m Sarena Provost from the Piikani First Nation which, is part of the Blackfoot Confederacy and Treaty #7. I was born and raised on the Piikani First Nation but have been living in Calgary for over 7yrs now. I have 3 years of Post Secondary education as I attended both formally known as Mount Royal College and Lethbridge Community College. My major was youth work and native studies. My heart and passion in my life is working with the Aboriginal Youth of today, guiding them, nurturing them and helping them reach their full potential to be our future leaders. How long have you been at the YMCA and what is your role? I’ve been working with the YMCA for little over a year now as an “Aboriginal Community Outreach Coordinator”. I run afterschool programs that are targeting the critical hours for children and youth. I run a program called “Aboriginal Buddies” at Catherine Nicholas Gun Elementary for children in grades K-6; the program encompasses teachings from Traditional Stories, Circle Structure and the Medicine Wheel, Elder support, cultural crafts and games, learning about the First Nations across Canada. I also run “Visions
Seekers” at Sir John A MacDonald Jr High, this program is similar to the Buddies program but on a more leadership level, the youth gain leadership and life skills, mentoring, educational support, teachings through Traditional Stories, Circle Structure and Medicine Wheel, Role Models from within the Aboriginal Community support them along with some Elders. Lastly I do Outreach Programming for the Aboriginal Youth in CYOC, twice a month. I love my job; it gives me chance to give youth and children an opportunity to reconnect with their heritage while building pride, self-esteem and a positive identity. What made you decide to get involved with USAY in regards to being on the board of Directors? I was first invited onto the USAY Board of Directors by Jesse Halton who was the previous President. He had asked me if I would like to be a board member on a volunteer bases as the Treasurer for the board, and I humbly said “Yes”. I’ve been an active board member for about a year now and I enjoy being a part of such an empowering, inspiring and amazing organization working for our youth membership. Where do you see the organization going and/or what would you like to see accomplished in the coming year?
I would like to see USAY further nurture, empower, motivate and foster our leaders of tomorrow. By implementing the ideas from our Strategic Plan and our Marketing & Communication Plan. Expanding programs and highlighting our current ones, giving our youth of today the necessary skill sets, tools and support to be our leaders of tomorrow. I also envision USAY developing and implementing a “Leadership Program” for our youth membership. That is one of the many ideas and dreams I have for USAY! If you could change one think about the urban Aboriginal culture in Calgary, what would it be? I would have to say to see all the Aboriginal serving agencies collaborating, working together and empowering our Urban Aboriginal Community. I notice and feel a sense of competiveness within the agencies and organizations. But there is no need to be competitive, we’re all working for one common goal and that is for the Urban Aboriginal Community. We should start partnering up more for the common good and best interest of our serving membership. We’re all doing amazing things for the community, but what better way to further help then working together whether it be in a program, to an event or a even a conference. In the end it’s not for our benefit it’s for the Urban Aboriginal Community of Calgary. NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
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COMMUNITY Personal question Ð what is your biggest pet peeve? My biggest pet peeve I would have to say is when someone tells me “SARENA WHY BOTHER YOU CAN’T DO THAT”! I know at times we all feel a little unconfident but we need to learn to overcome those barriers in our lives, when somebody told me I “CAN”T well “I DID”. I always believe in myself and I look to Creator for guidance and support, because I know if I believe in myself and I put all my heart into it I know I accomplish anything. What motivates or inspires you? Honestly, I would have to say the youth I am currently working along with all the youth I’ve worked with in the past. Every time a youth comes into my life they teach me something new about myself as a person. They look up to me and make me want to be a better person and continue trying hard. There is no better feeling then being invited to their
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Graduation, watching them receive that paper saying they “DID IT”; and knowing that you were one of the many people that helped get them to such a milestone in their life. They inspire me, encourage me, motivate me and most of all they give me the determination to keep making a difference in many more lives! What are you looking forward to in the coming new year both professionally and personally? I look forward to watching my baby nephew continue to grow, he’s such a blessing in my life. I didn’t know such a tiny little man would bring so much love and joy in my life. Also to do more travelling, my dream is to someday move to California but I will find it hard to move away and be far from my nephew and family. As for professionally just keep doing what I am doing, continue to make a difference in the lives of our future leaders. If I can impact or change another child or youths lives then I know I am doing what Creator
has planned for me. I’m thankful everyday for my blessings, my family, my nephew and the life I have so I will continue to “IIYIKA’KIMAAT” which means “TRY HARD”! What advice can you give any of our youth who are looking at getting involved with organizations like USAY? My advice would be to get involved, you have a voice and you have a right to use it. Whether it would be on a youth council, board of directors or employment. If you would like to be one of the many out there making a change in our Urban Aboriginal Community, then get involve and speak your mind. There is always an Aboriginal organization looking for Volunteers, so get involved and let your voice be heard. Come help mold, motivate, inspire and empower our future leaders, sometimes it only takes one person to make a difference. There are infinite possibilities out there waiting for you, it’s only impossible if you don’t try!
COMMUNITY
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COMMUNITY
University of Calgary Academic Writing Class Submissions Teacher: Laura Swart
By Jennifer Ksionzena Wispy whirls have spiraling curls. A sprinkle of crystal stars and a barrage of tiny white bars are caught in midair. I suspend a breath to hold this design. Small rainbows are scattered by the morning sun as I lean forward and move my face up close to the glass like a child. There is a memory pulling and tugging at me from behind. A snow draped creek side appears and water gurgles over a rock before it hides under an icy sheet. An eager sun cuts through lodge pole pines and is casting powerful steaks of white light. The hazy mist of my breath blurs my sight. I attempt a run through the snow. For a moment, the bowed down brown grass lifts both the crispy layer of snow and me. Then with a stutter, it gives up and the snow is up to my knee. The sharp blue sky is slung between two mountains and a far off glacier peak is tucked in between. I exhale and my air burns a hole on the frosty surface. I step back. My closed lips expand to a smile and my mittened hands squeeze a coffee mug. This glass enclosed bus shelter is altering daily routine.
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Stolen Perfection by Tricia Lee Crowchild The noises are whooshing and beeping. People moving about there’s a certain bustling about. People with things to be done. Slow quiet breathing in and out. Children shriek in the hallway. Noises drown out all other noises. A whooshing and beeping return louder and more alive swoosh beep swoosh beep. The room gets smaller and smaller and the people in it become the only world I know and the only world possible. The cold room is only warm enough for the little being in the tub like bed small listless body lying still being forced to breathe. Little lungs are made to breathe; up and down, up and down this tiny little chest working so hard just to bring oxygen into its tiny body. Huddled over this little angel taking in every tiny detail; I’m wishing to just hold her in my arms. Praying for a miracle, making deals with Creator. If only things could have been different. If only I re-acted sooner. I imprint her to my mind holding Kurdistan, as her spirit returns; my little piece of perfection, my angel, my little princess, stolen away as the sunrises. People are moving about, children shriek in the hallway. Noises drown out all other noises. Silence.
By Ginger Cattleman Sweating riding on a horse; all eyes on me. Wondering what all the people are thinking of me. Am I doing this right, is my hair O.k., I hope my horse don’t trip. Round and round the barrels I go as everyone’s eyes watch where I go. My nerves are trembling as I show them his talent. The horse’s name is Charlie. Legendary would better describe him. His miraculous moves swing me about as I hang tight with all my might. I kick my horse so he can gallop faster. He turns left then right “wow” I say. Then yell “giddy up, giddy up, haya”. Wow that was a rush that I love to feel. We finish with the last turn and home stretch we go as I kicking with my spurs we finish first. I look up at all the people and there cheering for me. I feel breathless like the wind got knocked out of me. This is feeling I’ll never forget winning first place was new to me. I wave to the crowd as I accept the reward of a big bright buckle and a hand full of money. This is a day that will be with me forever just me and Charlie with his legendary run.
COMMUNITY My 21st Dream Vacation By Maia Crowchild In Hasting, New Zealand on St. Aubyn Street there is a house with a white mailbox with red numbers: 812 imprinted on it. It sits at the end of a long black paved driveway that goes through a high wooden red fence with a cast iron gate. Behind the fence is a simple white one-story house; it has seen many celebrations and gatherings, such as my 21st birthday. Turning 21 in New Zealand is a huge celebration because it is believed that you are officially an adult and you are given the key to life. In my case I received a hand carved canoe paddle that my godfather made for me in the shed behind the simple white house. I celebrated my birthday with family I had not seen in years because Canada is a 18 hour flight away and finding the time and money to go can take a while. I also celebrated with my two british bull dogs, a black one with a white belly named Te Maori and a white one with a black spots on his ears. There is a simple white house that sits on St.Aubyn Street with a white mailbox with the red numbers 812 imprinted on it. This place is home. Thank You by Barry Duck Chief My daughter exerts independence. She exemplifies hard work and determination, and has attained her third year of studies in drama. Aside from parenting her two precious children she owns and manages a small influential production company, whose mission is to instill positive self-awareness to the youth on the reserve. It wasn’t something she envisioned as a financial endeavor, but pursued in exploiting the potential in students to succeed academically. Between monetary issues, family, and all of life’s little extra’s it often seems there are not enough hours in a day to even consider pursuing the challenges of academic distinction. I believe this ability to identify with the
youth and a lifetime dream to pursue acting has brought out this fulfillment not only to herself but her kids and family. As she progresses to the next level this righteousness will ripple down and form a precedent for all to model from especially the students associated with her small production establishment. Random University Sidewalk By Danielle Bruno After class on my way home I stood in the middle of a sidewalk and looked around. I gazed at the trees turning into nothing but a bunch of sticks, interconnected with one bigger stick. The dull brown colour contrasted with the sun, whose rays caused squinting. Then again it was the first thing that caught my eye. I looked down. The flood of fallen leaves rushed over and around my feet, being forced by the wind into constant motion. The sun was shining, and although it was windy the day was glowing. There was not a piece of garbage in sight. No empty chip bags, no hollow coke bottles or smoke buts. Either the students do not like to litter, or someone picks up after them. Option one is an ideal possibility, option two is pragmatic. On campus, my observation level is below normal. I guess I am too busy either trying to get home, or looking down at my feet. To my right there was a small cluster of rusted metal assembled together. It is supposed to be art; I think the university just needed to fill up space in a vacant area. The wind began to pick up and a yellow leaf landed on my shoulder. I smiled, grabbed it, and then threw it to the rest of the leaves. As I watched it conform into a sea of red, orange, yellow and brown, I wondered where they all go. I watched them take over the ground shielding the bright green grass, and walked away. When I stopped to look around I realized how much it brightened up my day. I was always in a rush, unintentionally disregarding the velvet grass, and ignoring the shimmer and sparkle of the sun. In that moment of time, the irrelevant painting of orange leaves became a picture I never want to forget.
Playing with the bears By Faron Desjarlais Cubs are always searching, scavenging and only want to live, to be free. Growing day to day from the abundant food supplied by their mother earth. Learning from the teachings from grandfather grizzly who knows best. I was a young boy, never where to go or where to turn. No direction, no path, just going on my way through life. I’m a compass without a map, left in the forest playing with the bears. I was never scared, always alone, no expect him, the one man I ever had in my life, like me but craved from the mountain of stone weathered by wisdom. I never knew him personally, but when I look into his eyes we understood one another. He’s there and I’m here, left with the grandfather teachings, confused, looking for the right path. Left playing with the bears, no fear he showed me not to budge, gave me the life skills to survive by myself, no love, no fear he showed me the way when I was a boy, now a man left here playing with the bears I understood the importance of the teachings of my grandfather, when he’s gone from this life so are the teachings, he will still remain in my memory. He an old stubborn bear, wont give up his teachings till his last breathe only shows the way. I can not speak to, I don’t understand the language, he won’t understand my thoughts, he can only show me the right way and the right ways to live, hunt, pray, eat, and drink. I already know what he is doing when I try to imitate his movements, he shows me once and I should remember unless I forget, useless; I turn my back on the old man I never do I accept his gifts. He never once told me he let me be, I should already know, a man a bear great as he, grandfather grizzly. The never tamed spirit of his will run through the forest till the end comes. I can only wish I am half the man he was when I’m left here playing with the bears. He only knows I tired, to become one of them alike. The old ways to become one with your inner spirit. So in respects to him ill be left here playing with the bears till in I
find my place, till I find my inner spirit. Grandfather.
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COMMUNITY
FUN FACTS Longest finger nail ever recorded: 2 feet 11 inches
Pickles were outlawed in Los Angeles because the smell might offend people The largest sandwich in the world weighed in at a massive 5,440 pounds
Number of teeth a mosquito has: 47
No matter its size or thickness, a piece of paper cannot be folded in half more than 7 times
In Michigan it is against state law to tie a crocodile to a fire hydrant
A cat can travel at a top speed of approximately 49km/hr over a short distance
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COMMUNITY URBAN SOCIETY FOR ABORIGINAL YOUTH & HERITAGE CANADA PRESENT
BLACKFOOT GRAPHIC NOVEL USAY is looking for the following people to work on our upcoming Blackfoot Graphic Novel (paid positions): • Videographer (must have access to film and editing equipment) • Storyteller • Lead Artist • Two Secondary Artists • Animators, may apply as a team or single person (must have access to animation and editing equipment)
For more details on each position please inquire at info@usay.ca or 403.233.8225. All applicants can apply for more than one position if they feel they are able to fulfill the requirements. All applicants are expected to submit a sample of their work and if given an interview will be required to bring a professional portfolio. Job postings close November 15, 2010.
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GAME*ON
Game Review
By Jonas Soosay & Jolene Frayne-Callihoo
halo reach
Bungie has developed a bittersweet tribute to the Halo franchise, that gamers will be playing for a very long time. If you are a fan of the Halo franchise, have played the previous entries, or know the history of the Halo universe, then Halo: Reach is a “must own” for you. Reach plays as you would expect it to play (in a good way). The controls are smooth and the physics make sense in the Halo World and it follows the “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” line of thought.
There are a few minor additions, including rechargeable armor abilities that can be changed out like weapons.The hologram and the jet pack stood out as the most inventive of the armor abilities. The hologram creates a decoy that runs across the field to a specific point, drawing enemy fire. The jet-pack helps deal death from above, and combined with a sniper rifle of your own, it can get you to places that give you a huge advantage. All of the traditional weapons return from previous Halo games, but unfortunately, you can’t dual-wield weapons in this game. There are a handful of new weapons, but none that really stand out. Another big improvement over other Halo games is the linearity of the levels. Halo games have always been linear in nature, but they tended to hide that linearity in giant, bland looking areas. All the things that worked in previous games are reworked and polished in the final installment from Bungie, and all the things that didn’t, have been streamlined and simplified. The game is, however, not perfect: The graphics could be a bit tighter, the campaign could be longer, and the game refines rather than creates. Besides the negative, Halo Reach is without question one of the best games of the year, and one of the best Xbox 360 games on the market.Whether you are into the story or not, Halo: Reach’s game play does exactly what it sets out to do. Some will love it, others will not. The game does a great job of making you feel like a true bad ass making my rating an 8 out of 10. ESRB Rating: M (Mature) Platform: Xbox 360
Def Jam Rapstar
Hip-hop fans have been out of luck on finding a music game that features music that they actually like. Def Jam Rapstar fills that empty void. This enticing new hip-hop karaoke game defiantly requires some familiarity with hip-hop. If you enjoy hip hop music, then this is the game for you. You also have to be somewhat familiar with the 45 hip-hop songs available on the disc. It offers a wide range of music from the classics to the newest songs out. The songs are presented in music video format when rapping which ads to the entertainment aspect. Also, the songs are edited which means you’ll be rapping the clean version of these songs. As for game play modes, the quick party mode allows you to get in a game with a friend (supports two player co-op) and career mode which lacks some depth. All you have to do is play the songs and get the required amount of stars to move up a stage.You can also perform some free styles over several of instrumental beats provided by big name producers like Just Blaze and DJ Khalil. A bonus to this game is that every time you grab the mic and play the game you have the ability to record 30 seconds of your performance provided that you have an Xbox Live Vision Cam, Playstation Eye, or Kinect. That 30 second clip can be edited using Def Jam Rapstar’s video editing tools. Although Def Jam Raptstar made some mistakes and could use a few improvements, it is truly pure fun. Defjam Rapstar is a good ‘singstar’ type hip hop game, but let’s face it – hip hop fans alike would rather crave the numerous dimensions of a ‘Rock Band’ type hip hop karaoke game instead making my rating a 7.5 out of 10. ESRB Rating: T (13yrs and up) Platform: Wii, PS3, Xbox 360
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BEATS
Turn up the Volume By Katty Jo Rabbit
Kings of Leon Come Around Sundown With 6.2 million copies sold from their last album, and a slew of fans that will follow them to the depths of hell and back, what more can be done, where do you go from here? Well for KOL nowhere really, and for them that is fine, because they are famous. They do not have to adhere to what the fans want, because to the uber fans they could puke into a paper bag and record it, and it would still be a gold record. At least this is what they think, and this is what they have done, so instead of giving you the rock anthem song of the year, they pass on this fifth album as an attempt to get the uber fans off their backs, and try to feel proud of what they have done. If it wasn’t for side projects you could definitely see some burn out happening here, if it hasn’t already happened. The funny thing about it all is the fact that the front man, what’s-his-name, actually mumbles the lyrics on purpose, no matter how many times you listen to it; you cannot make out what is being sung. Is this to hide the fact that they do no longer want to expose the content of their music, or is it because he didn’t really have any to begin with? Who knows, only they will understand the concept of that; one thing you can count on is the sound of KOL. They are able to keep their sound, their style and their release. “Back down south” Is a song about the Blood reserve, just kidding, the real reason it stuck out was because it used one bass note and one chord, something you don’t normally hear. Especially from a band whose fuzzy amped up stadium sound relies on the usage of over production. At least you know they did try something a little new. The only redeeming quality of this whole album is the pictures of the band mates, and knowing that you will not be hearing any of the songs being used for episodes of Glee.
Matt & Kim Sidewalks You cannot expect to be an eagle if you are only hanging out with pigeons, for some reason this was the first thought that came to mind when listening to this album. Catchy, positive, encouraging, friendly, entertaining and most of all Brooklyn, they are back. And this is what you’re going to get when you listen to the latest album from the hipster power couple. It was getting a little boring in the hipster world, and it has been a few years since something worth the while has come upon us, and so simply structured. Meaning, you wouldn’t even think there was only two members in the mix, so much is incorporated that it makes up for the simple song and instrument bond. Cameras, Wires and Ice Melts are all great examples of this. Sent out on Fader label Matt and Kim have been on whirl wind of tours, on a recent blog on fan noted that all ticket holders were ushered into a room where they were given the first exposure to the album songs, and they were also given a hug, now isn’t that nice? Actually, they were not given a hug, but that is what it feels like when you listen to their music. Like you have some cool friends that will always be there to listen to your lame stories, and join you in your lame activities. They are the friends that help you get through who remind you that individuality is cool and you belong to whatever scene you want to be in. Most of all they are all about having fun, life is too short to get depressed about anything trivial as life is, most of the time if you are feeling down, pop in this album and remember things could be a lot worse.
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BEATS
Music You Can Feel In Your Toes Belle and Sebastian Write About Love Remember years ago, when you were younger, and carefree, and had not been so in tune with the hipster scene, “To sir with love” was still playing in the theatres and listening to music that made you feel happy was cool. Well it is time to go back, to the time when the sounds of life could be played on a record. Actually, that is too far back, hopefully some of you know the movie, anyway, yes, my lovelies, the Scottish septet is back, and even though it took them a dam long time to show up, they did, and for that our hearts and ears should smile in approval. It has actually only been four years, for our generation, that is decades, we have all become to use to getting that click away response and for that we should be ashamed. Nothing good comes easy, and that is why this album is here now, so as recognizable sound as it is, it is still as good as it was. That is saying a lot, because the ensemble does not stray from the formula, it does not explore new paths in lyrical content, well maybe a little but not too much, it does not explore new sounds, or travel far into the galaxies. Instead it stays home, close to the comforts it has known, youthful and wise in their delivery, it harmonizes into a mod inspired meld of music not only to make love to, but to warm into one’s comfortable place, a place inside kept away from the mainstream not being forced to produce or proclaim. But to remember that sometimes the world needs to stop, and wait and listen to take care not to burn out or fade away but to remain in the same, because that is still better than most.
Ash Koley Inventions At first it was disappointing to know that this was a band that had songs on the television first, rather than later, so trying to put the label “sell-out” on them was harder to do, since first you have to release the song then sell out. Then it was brought to the surface that they were Canadian and that explained it all. Canadian bands need to spread their awesome sauce and tap into every resource available, because there is a stigma that goes along with being Canadian. Instead of condemning them for all their sins, one would have to put themselves in their shoes and decide if they would have done anything different, for a struggling band in Winnipeg, they have done the best they could and now they are reaping the benefits, first a lotto 6/49 commercial song in the U.K to a Blackberry commercial song in the US, and then a song on “Grey’s Anatomy” what better a scheme to hit, then to expose your music to the masses. For most bands would just rely on the label to make a hit of their music, but it can be respected that if you want to make it big, then you have to go big, and it does not hurt if the music is catchy enough to make earworms and the masses stop and stare. Enough about marketing though, what really matters is the price, it is only 6.99 at HMV, it is 36 minutes long, and for all your muscle heads, it is a workout in itself, since every song is a fresh new moment to pump your fists too. They even added a song to cool off to with the song “Collisions”. The lyrics are poetic and charming, the music optimistic and upbeat, and for a former ABBA cover band singer, and ex punk band member this is not too bad. If you do not believe the buzz, then check out the YouTube videos they created to let everyone know that they do have what it takes, they are called “Bathroom Sessions” and become a believer for yourself.
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Music*Charts Catch the Beat - Charts – House & Techno by Caylem Simeon
HOUSE MUSIC
Artist – Track – Label Natural Rhythm – Ditty Bag – Dufflebag Joy Lee – Soul Spirit (Speak Deep Remix) – Spirit Sound Evan Rhodes & Greg Yuen – Piece By Piece – Tango Thomas White – Do Right Medley – Serial Sickness Poncho Warwick - A Social Thing – Guesthouse Erik Lahm – My Soul – Blockhead Mark Farina – That’s How (JT Donaldson Remix) – Great Lakes Audio Rills – Peep Show – All In Annex – Overrated (Ospina & Oscar P Vocal Dub Mix) - KULT 1200 Warriors – Disco Tech – 1200 Traxx
TECHNO MUSIC
Artist – Track – Label Slam – Hot Knives Remixes EP – Paragraph Beltek & Umek – Back In The Race (Original Mix) – Cr2 Records Octave One feat Urban Soul Orchestra – Blackwater – 430 West Records Marc Houle – Hitcher Man – Minus Florian Schirmacher – The Rock (Original Mix) – Highgrade Records Benoit & Sergio – Midnight People (Technasia Dub 2) – Spectral Sound Claire Ripley – Slow Loris (Solomun Remix) Shlomi Aber – Groove Mechanism (Original Mix) – OVUM Kiki – Cinema Obscura (Original Mix) – Bpitch Control Silent Servant – Untitled (Regis Mix) – Sandwell District So there is another list of audio treats for you to find and play loud. All of these tracks can be found online at: www.stompy.com www.beatport.com
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LITERA LLY
Book Reviews For the restless mind
Elodie Caron Palo Alto Fiction by James Franco Yes, that guy from Pineapple Express and General Hospital, James Franco. It’s his first collection of short stories, and I think maybe he thinks he’s a lot like Jack Kerouac or J.D. Salinger. There’s a lot of confused emotional distance and description of things that mean nothing as if they’re really important, while the true insights are scattered around haphazardly, like afterthoughts. A girl who gets a job going through reels and reels of film of the moon, looking for imperfections in the playback, finds herself drawing to kill the boredom. She draws everything she can think of, she says, until she realizes that “All that was inside me was a bunch of toys, and TV shows, and my family”. Franco is kind of an avant garde artiste, getting his hands in everything in a seemingly endless quest to find some kind of enlightenment and understanding of the ways of the world. Fiction is a logical step at this point. He knows how to tell a story without overwriting it, but God, I wish guys like him would stop trying to write the next Catcher in the Rye, already
Shanghai Girls Fiction by Lisa See A gripping tale of two sisters, Pearl and May, who are suddenly swept out of their privileged life and left to rely on themselves and each other for comfort and survival. Growing up in Shanghai in the early 20th century, Pearl, the older sister, has made the most of her social station, educating herself and ensuring her ability to be independent from the cold father and disciplined mother who rule her life. May, on the other hand, is more than happy to take advantage of her status as the pretty, favored child, forgoing education for entertainment. When the sisters are informed that their family’s money is disappearing and they have been married off to Gold Mountain Men (Chinese who left for America in search of greater prosperity), Pearl and May find themselves at the mercy of their unknown fate. Shanghai Girls will get under your skin and be hard to shake off, but it’s the examination of the cruelties that people are capable of, and the bonds that can save us at the same time, that make it worth the read.
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SMA LL*SCREEN
See You at the Movies
By Elodie Caron
Starring Dahong Ni, Ni Yan, Xiao Shen-Yang I’m a big fan of Chinese cinema, the bigger and more graphically intense, the better, and Yimou Zhang is one of my favorite directors. A Woman, A Gun and a Noodle Shop is his reinterpretation of the Coen brothers’ 1984 classic, Blood Simple. Wang, a noodle shop owner on the Silk Road in China, suspects his wife of having an affair, and secretly bribes a lawman to kill them. The wife and her lover, however, have their own plans, and everything goes to hell, as usually happens. The story is played for comedy in some places, to offset some of the blood and violence, but the characteristic colorplay and incredible attention to detail that Zhang is known for are in strong form. As a tale of love gained, lost and stolen, and power and money fought, killed and died for, it’s about as simple as it gets, since there’s nothing simple about that. A Woman, A Gun and a Noodle Shop
Starring Keira Knightley, Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield The true story is very slowly revealed, almost in the way that people don’t speak about it, like those arrows in the hospital that lead you to where you need to go. You’re in the building, but you have no idea what’s behind all those doors you’re passing. Told in flashbacks by an adult Kathy (Mulligan), who reminisces on the time she spent at Hailsham, a boarding school in England, Never Let Me Go is a bittersweet movie about the realities we never see as children, too preoccupied by the smaller discoveries we’re always making. Children only vaguely understand betrayal and manipulation, even as they practice them. Based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, Never Let Me Go is compelling and disturbing tale, full of haunting images and explorations of love, honor and the concept of destiny. It might be a little hard to track down, but I’d recommend it. Never Let Me Go
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U AROUND TOWN
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NEW TRIBE NOVEMBER 2010
U AROUND TOWN
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