12 November 2014

MANITOBAN the

THE OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA STUDENTS’ NEWSPAPER

The buzz around town We've filtered Winnipeg's best coffee shops for you Page 14

Intelligent ideas U of M talks take off Page 7

Hardy Cup bound Bisons one step closer to Vanier Page 18

Vo l 1 0 1 · N o 4 2 · N ov e m b e r 1 2 , 2 0 1 4 · w w w.t h e m a n i to b a n .co m

Index

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VOL. 101 NO. 42 November 12, 2014

Editor-in-Chief vacant

editor@themanitoban.com / 474.8293

Business manager Angela England

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Advertising Coordinator Sara Bulloch

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Editorial

Senior News Editor Dana Hatherly

news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

News Editor Craig Adolphe

news@themanitoban.com/ 474.6770

Comment Editor Tom Ingram

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Managing Editor Fraser Nelund

me@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

science & technology Editor Chantelle Dubois

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arts & Culture Editor Lauren Siddall

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Sports Editor Mike Still

sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Copy Editor Carlyn Schellenberg

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Design

News

Science

UWSA by-election

The evolution of education

The Manitoban has you covered

Bill Nye's new book addresses the root of it all

Design Editor Bradly Wohlgemuth

design@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

Graphics Editor Bram Keast

graphics@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

Photo Editor Carolyne Kroeker

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design associate Scott Ford

scott@themanitoban.com

graphics associate Evan Tremblay

evan@themanitoban.com

page 5

page 8

Comment

Arts & Culture

UMSU gets it right

Casting Shadows

Representing a diverse student population requires reserve

Bette Woodland captures Manitoba's landscapes

page 10

Reporters

News Philma Scheepers News Ethan Cabel Science Jeremiah Yarmie arts & culture Ian T.D. Thomson arts & culture vacant Sports David Grad Assistant copy editor Kristy Hourd

Volunteer Contributors

Dave Shaw Sarjoun Faour Beibei Lu Justin Ladia Ian McCausland Keegan Steele

page 15

Will Gibson Andy Che Jordan Dumba

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Corrections

This photo from our Nov. 5 issue was provided

by Evan Taylor On Page 6 of the Nov. 5 issue of the Manitoban CFS's No means No campaign was mistakenly attributed to UMSU.

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News

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Senior News Editor: Dana Hatherly News Editor: Craig Adolphe Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Austerity measures in Quebec provoke mass protests Marches gain momentum in the streets of Montreal Philma Scheepers, staff

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march against government aus- ASSÉ, Virginie Mikaelian Camille terity took place in the streets Godbout, told the Manitoban that the of Montreal on Friday, Oct. 31. An recent march was not the first antiestimated 82,000 people took part in austerity protest the association had the march, which was organized by a taken part in. According to Godbout, coalition, composed of more than 70 ASSÉ had organized another antilocal unions and multiple community austerity protest last April, which groups, called the Coalition opposée gathered more than 15,000 people in à la tarification et à la privatization the streets of Montreal. des services publics (the coalition The recent protest was specifiagainst the privatization and the cally aimed at the austerity measures taken by Philippe Couillard’s Liberal taxation of public services).

University students and students government.

“Couillard keeps on cutting serof the publicly funded pre-university institution exclusive to the Quebec vices without really measuring the education system, Collège d’en- negative effects of these measures,” seignement général et profession- said Godbout. She said that the govnel (CEGEP), went on strike on ernment is determined to go back to zero deficits without really measuring Halloween.

Among others in the coalition the consequences on the population. was a student association called “The Liberal party [in Quebec L’Association pour une Solidarité (PLQ )], like the previous governSyndicale Étudiante (ASSÉ). ment, has a tendency to consider The internal affairs secretary for our public services—and especially

education—as a simple commodity that needs to respond to the needs of our economy, thus reinforcing the dominance of profits over people,” said Godbout.

“Never in Canadian history has there ever been less of a reason for austerity, if there ever was a reason for austerity” – Robert Chernomas, U of M professor of economics According to Godbout, ASSÉ is focusing on protecting Quebec’s

public services, especially its education systems.

“At ASSÉ we believe in an education system free from private business interests,“ Godbout told the Manitoban.

University of Manitoba economics professor Robert Chernomas weighed in on the subject of government austerity. He said that “never in Canadian history has there ever been less of a reason for austerity, if there ever was a reason for austerity.”

Chernomas said that he believes Canada has never been in a better position than it is now to spend on improving infrastructure, lowering or eliminating tuition, and on health and education in general.

According to Chernomas, the issue of austerity is especially relevant in Quebec at the moment, because many still remember the Quiet Revolution and what it entailed.

“During the Quiet Revolution, Quebec was very far behind compared to other provinces and countries, and they began to build their public sector – using those revenues to build the universities and keeping tuition low, which has made Quebec a much more advanced economy than in the past,” Chernomas explained.

“We need to fight to maintain the rights acquired by social and student movements in the past. In the last few months, the government and its regressive measures and policies have managed to set us decades back,” said Godbout.

The fight is far from over, according to Godbout.

“October 31 was only a beginning; the government can expect that we will be in the streets if they continue with its austerity project.”

The referendum conundrum What requires a referendum at our university?

Philma Scheepers, staff

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he University of Manitoba Students’ Union voted in favour of a referendum question that will see a $260 annual fee added on to all of its members’ tuition payments—with exceptions for those with disabilities or who live outside the city—while providing them access to unlimited transit access from September to April.

However, not all cost increases for students result from a referendum. A potential additional fee for the Active Living Centre is a prime example of a financial decision that students may not be given the opportunity to vote on.

The University of Manitoba is currently completing expansion of its existing faculty of kinesiology and recreation management’s recreation facility. Fundraising for the $48-million project is already underway, according to the University of Manitoba’s website, and is “now focused on gaining donor and community support.”

The Active Living Centre may require an additional fee, at the discretion of the U of M Board of Governors that may be implemented and charged to U of M undergraduate students, but will not be determined until completion of the project – expected in 2015.

The Manitoban spoke to UMSU president Al Turnbull and students for their input about referendums on

campus.

According to the U of M’s website, Turnbull told the Manitoban the Board of Governors “may exerthat neither UMSU nor the Board cise in the name of the university any of Governors are required to pass a powers conferred on the university as referendum on any issues regarding a body corporate (and which are not tuition. Instead, he said, they have reserved to Senate).” the authority to make decisions as Among those powers, it explicrepresentatives of the student body itly lists the power to “set all fees and and university, respectively. charges to be paid to the university.”

“I personally don’t think I’m going “The board of governors and to be using the Active Living Centre; UMSU don’t need to run referenhowever, I don’t have a problem with dums for anything. With UMSU it the fees. It improves quality of life, has become a formality that to impleand that’s one of the prices—literally ment any major program it needs to speaking—of being part of a com- have a referendum,” said Turnbull. munity of several thousand people,” The U-Pass referendum, according said Anthony Wightman, a third- to Turnbull, was vital because of the year political science student. imbalance of opinions.

Wightman said that he thinks “To not have done a referendum for there should have been a referen- the U-Pass would have been political dum nonetheless, stating that he is suicide because we are talking about in favour of the fees in theory but such a disparity between drivers and that students should have the right to riders,” said Turnbull. decide on whether or not they want Turnbull said that “[the potential them. fee for the Athletic Living Centre] Allisa Venema, who is a third-year is far less controversial than the [fee fine arts student, said that she was for the] U-Pass just because of the surprised when she transferred to the sheer numbers that would be able U of M to find out that a gym mem- to access it.” bership was not included in tuition According to him, the cost of as it is at other universities, including hosting a referendum is one of the the University of Winnipeg. main reasons that not all major issues “There are a lot of fees already that are put to the vote.

I don’t agree with and a lot of money “Referendums are expensive,” spent in my own faculty that I don’t Turnbull told the Manitoban. “They really agree with, but it happens and are messy and a lot of work. This last you have to make the most of what referendum cost us over $12,000. You you’ve been given,” said Venema. have to pay for poll clerks and sta-

photo by Carolyne Kroeker, staff

tions and materials, and you have to Turnbull responded to negaco-ordinate them properly.” tive feedback about the U-Pass by Many students were upset by the reminding students that the vote had U-Pass referendum results, espe- been left up to them. With a 19.5 per cially those who do not ride the bus cent turnout, Turnbull said students to campus. who did not participate in the vote Justin Punton, a fourth-year sci- should not be complaining about the ence student, stated that he did not results. believe that the referendum was prop“Our message has been very clear. erly advertised to both demograph- We left it up to students and if you ics and that only those who were in didn’t vote, then you don’t have a say,” favour of the U-Pass were motivated said Turnbull. to vote.

For those who did vote, with 53 Another concern was that because per cent of votes in favour of the of the time it would take to imple- U-Pass, Turnbull stated that it was ment the U-Pass (approximately two still a majority and that is simply the years), the decision—at least for some way a democracy works. students—would not affect their uni“We are going to carry out our versity careers at all. mandate, and if anyone asks, we are “I’m voting for something that may just doing what the students voted for never affect me in the future,” said us to do,” said Turnbull.

Isaac Weldon, a second-year arts student.

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News

Senior News Editor: Dana Hatherly News Editor: Craig Adolphe Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

U-Pass passes for second time UMSU’s recent political stance on the transit question Dana Hatherly, staff

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innipeg students from the of the U-Pass.

University of Manitoba and The U of M Graduate Students’ the University of Winnipeg voted last Association (UMGSA) held a sepamonth to determine whether or not rate referendum to determine the will the U-Pass should be implemented of their student body’s inclusion in for students from participating post- the U-Pass program. With 59 per cent secondary institutions. of voting members in favour of the Based on the will of the student transit pass, the vote by the UMGSA body, the vote indicated that the stu- signalled to city council that their dent body wanted the U-Pass pro- members were also seeking inclusion gram to be introduced at the recently in the program. proposed rate of $260 for members On the other hand, the UWSA of UMSU and the University of vote—which showed 82 per cent in Winnipeg Students’ Association favour—included U of W graduate (UWSA). students.

The UMSU referendum results had 53 per cent of students approve

which totals $170 per academic year. best possible price point and let the Based on negotiations between students decide by giving them all the City of Winnipeg, Winnipeg the facts.

Transit, UMSU, and UWSA, the “The big part of the U-Pass is to total annual price increased by $90 promote the use of public transit and to reach the current price of the pro- sustainability.” posed U-Pass program. The price At the same forum, University of increase led UMSU and UWSA— Manitoba Students’ Union executives and additionally, UMGSA—to hold told the Manitoban that they chose referendums last week. to remain neutral on the subject of “The Winnipeg city council the U-Pass. adopted a resolution in Feb. 2014 “During the initial referendum in endorsing a U-Pass program pro- 2012, the UMSU executive chose to vided that students held a successful take a stance on the U-Pass,” Pierce membership referendum before Nov. said.

1, 2014 to approve a price of $260 per “As I mentioned, it was a decision student for the fall and winter semes- by our executive during the election ters,” read the UMSU Council meet- to remain neutral during the referening minutes from Sept. 29. dum and allow our members to make At the U of M, the U-Pass ref- the decision ultimately. erendum was motioned for by the “As an executive, we are taking a 2014-15 UMSU executive; motivated neutral stance and allowing students

by UMSU president Al Turnbull; to register ‘yes’ or ‘no’ sides on the and resolved by UMSU Council at issue.” that same meeting.

The UWSA executive gave their UMSU’s bylaws endorsement to a similar question The chief returning officer (CRO) regarding the U-Pass, according to is responsible for advertising and UWSA president Rorie Mcleod informing students about elections Arnould. and referendums, “promoting the The University of Manitoba election/referenda beginning at least Students’ Union maintained a neutral 19 days before the close of the nomistance on the issue, content to pose nation period.” the question to members.

The minutes from the Sept. 29 Based on the UMSU mandate, UMSU Council meeting indicate members were to be informed about that “Turnbull reported that the the U-Pass over the course of the CRO selections committee, the eleccampaign period prior to the voting tions referendum, discipline, interdays. pretation, and enforcement board, “My role as an UMSU execu- as well as the campaign expenses tive for this referendum is to give and advisory committee need to be the student body the opportunity to struck.” vote on the U-Pass program,” said Bylaw 1020 states the CRO’s Christian Pierce, UMSU vice-pres- duties, including advertising for regident external. istration of campaign sides—“yes” or Turnbull said that, with the civic “no” sides in this case—prior to the elections occurring at the same time, registration period. he would have preferred to have held On the nomination and registrathe referendum at a later time. Since tion day, each side of the referendum the UWSA and UMGSA were hold- debate presents their registration ing their referendums at the end of forms to the CRO. The registration October, he suggested it would ulti- period opened on Oct. 13, according mately be better to co-ordinate the to Pierce.

UMSU referendum to coincide with According to the Oct. 14 UMSU theirs and in accordance with the city Council meeting minutes, the chair council resolution. reported that the CRO selections committee had met and selected a UMSU’s role candidate to bring forward to UMSU The U-Pass forum hosted Council. Last year’s CRO, Jacqueline

by UMSU, UMGSA, and the Keena, was again appointed as the Manitoban on Oct. 23 was held on CRO at the same UMSU Council photo by Beibei Lu, volunteer staff the same day as advanced voting. meeting. Advanced voting opened At the transit forum, students on Oct. 20, and the referendum took History of the referendum were invited to direct questions to place from Oct. 29-31.

Two years ago, 74 per cent of U of Pierce, UMGSA president Laura “The role of the CRO, as outlined M undergraduate students voted in Rempel, and participating panellists. in UMSU Bylaw 800 is to ensure favour of the U-Pass. The first referOne question from the transit that elections and referenda operate endum garnered the highest UMSU forum audience read: safely, fairly, and in accordance with voter turnout in over 15 years.

“The initial U-Pass referendum the election rules,” Keena told the During that time, former UMSU gave a clear indication—74 [per cent] Manitoban. vice-president advocacy Jennifer in favour—as to the will of the stuThe bylaws also state that the Black took an unpaid leave from her dent body, yet UMSU seems, until CRO’s role is to encourage students position at UMSU in order to orga- recently, not to be actively pursu- to get informed and “actively particinize in her full capacity as a student ing it. The question is: Where does pate in the democratic process.” member, without overstepping her UMSU stand [with regards to] the Whenever possible the CRO must executive role.

U-Pass and why has it not been on advertise for elections. Keena was The result of the first referen- their agenda until recently?” given less than one week to advertise dum meant that UMSU was given “We’ve been pursuing it with city for advance voting. a mandate to negotiate for a pass council and the UWSA,” responded at a rate of $85 or less per semester, Pierce. “Our goal is to give them the

VOL. 101 NO. 42 November 12, 2014

News

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UWSA hosts by-election New business and economics director elected, international students’ director position remains unfilled Craig Adolphe, staff

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he University of Winnipeg Students’ Association held a by-election last month in which two seats on their board of directors were supposed to be filled and students were asked to vote on a referendum question meant to gauge support for the U-Pass.

Polls were open from Oct. 27-29 and saw a 47.5 per cent increase in voter turnout compared to the general election which took place in March – jumping from 922 voters in the general election to 1,360 in the by-election.

On the referendum question 1,112 voted yes, 243 voted no, and 5 ballots were spoiled.

For the position of business and economics director, Mathew Joseph was elected over co-candidates Kyle Karpish and Jordan Sobey who had run for the position as a team, hoping to be co-directors. A recount was required before Joseph was declared winner because of a narrow margin of victory in the first count - a single vote difference, according to Joseph.

Figures released after the recount showed that Joseph received 625 votes and Karpish and Sobey received 576 votes, with 11 spoiled ballots.

The position of international student director was left unfilled.

An advertorial, written by the UWSA and published in the Uniter’s Oct. 23 issue, profiled all the candidates in the by-election including Chun Hoe Ho, the then sole candidate for international students’ director.

The UWSA’s chief elections commissioner, Michael Walpole, told the Manitoban that the sole candidate in the running for the position dropped out days before the election.

One candidate did run for the position of international students’ director in the general election that took place in March. Beatriz Carazo del Hoyo, a bioanthropology student from Spain, was the only can-

didate to apply during that election but has resigned since winning the directorship.

Bylaw 4.03 ii. of the UWSA bylaws states, “A vacancy in the non-executive director position occurring on or after September 30 of any year, except that which is the result of an increase in the number of Directorships, may be filled by appointment by the Board of Directors so long as the executive committee is in a position to make recommendations pertaining to the filling of this position. The duration for such an appointment shall be the balance of the unexpired term of the vacating director.”

However, Rorie Mcleod Arnould, president of the UWSA, said that they had not looked at appointing anyone to the directorate before the election because they expected it to be filled during the by-election and an appointment would run for the entire year.

“While I know that we have done so in the past, I don’t sense any movement among board members to fill this seat by appointment. We will continue to work with international students to address the issues that affect their communities through all other available channels.

“All director positions are filled via the electoral process, and so that position will be filled as the new Board of Directors takes over in April.”

Like the number of ballots cast for the U-pass referendum, the number of ballots cast for the business and economics director position ended up being significantly higher than any other directorship won during the UWSA’s general elections – only two of which were contested.

Mcleod Arnould said the referendum played a major role in the increased voter turnout for the by-election.

“Referendum questions that address issues as significant as the

U-Pass do raise voter turnout significantly, and it’s likely that the high turnout was driven at least in part by the consequences of the question.”

Mcleod Arnould said that on top of being happy with referendum results he was also looking forward to working with Joseph.

“Mathew is someone I’ve worked with in the past at CKUW [95.5 FM], as hosts of ‘People of Interest.’ His

background and personal experiJoseph shared Mcleod Arnould’s ence will be invaluable to us as we excitement and was looking forward work to unite students from all areas to starting work with the Board of of study, move forward on govern- Directors. ment lobbying efforts for equitable He said he would be meeting and fair tuition rates for international with representatives of the Business students, and work with universi- Administration Students’ Association ties to ensure appropriate supports and the Finance and Economics for international students studying Students’ Association soon, to talk in Manitoba, which are currently about ideas for the student association. insufficient.”

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Science & technology Science & Technology Editor: Chantelle Dubois Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Independent TEDxUManitoba event at U of M Researchers present their exciting and groundbreaking research at the inaugural TEDxUManitoba Chantelle dubois, staff

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n Nov. 4, 2014 the University of Manitoba hosted its first independently organized TEDxUManitoba event. The event invited nine speakers from varying disciplines to discuss their research and share their ideas with an audience of 100 individuals. Out of the nine speakers, seven gave their presentations on scientific topics and research.

Of the science speakers, the first to present was Ahmad Byagowi, a PhD candidate from the department of electrical engineering, on making space accessible and understandable.

Through a small satellite, his team is exploring big ideas such as panspermia, the theory that life came from other planets, by exposing tardigrades to the vacuum of space. He believes this experiment, if successful, could build evidence that perhaps life travelled to Earth by a meteorite from another planet.

Next was Debbie Kelly, a Canada research chair in comparative cognition, who spoke on the bird brain.

Her research involves observing bird behaviour in categories such as problem-solving capabilities, spa-

tial memory, and social interaction.

During her presentation she showed videos of birds solving problems by manipulating tools, storing caches, and being able to locate them quickly and accurately months later, as well as displaying an awareness of when other birds were watching them store their food.

“Exactly what the TEDxUManitoba organizers wanted” Emmanuel Ho, assistant professor of pharmacy, offered his presentation, “Nano-Medicine: The Way of the Future?” During his presentation he told audiences about the importance of nano-medicine, medicines with molecules that are nanometers in scale,and how it can be beneficial.

In cancer therapy, nano-medicines can accurately treat cancer cells while healthy cells remain untouched, reducing the side-effects and damage usually caused by current che-

photos by Beibei Lu, volunteer staff

motherapy treatments.

Institute for Sustainable Development individuals congregated to discuss Jeremy Strong is not a scientist, -Experimental Lakes Area. He and the research they had just learned but his research for his PhD in his team of scientists perform experi- about, which is exactly what the English involves science fiction lit- ments on isolated lakes to observe the TEDxUManitoba organizers wanted. erature. In his topic, “How Imagining effects of human activity on them.

Organizer Mohamed Ouf said he the End of the World Might Help Us His team has observed the effects on hoped the event would highlight the Save It,” he discusses many examples phosphorous on algae blooms.

University of Manitoba and all the of literature that express humanity’s The last, but most certainly not things happening on campus. He fear of certain technologies destroy- least, was David Barber, research has previously been involved with ing us, or hope that they might save chair in arctic system science. His TEDxCairo. us. An example includes artificial presentation was titled “Seven intelligence and robotics, both of Surprising Results from the Ongoing The annual TEDxUManitoba is which have been portrayed in stories Reduction of the Arctic Sea Ice an independently organized event. where they end humanity or offer it Cover.” Barber’s talk focused on the Anyone interested in presenting at next salvation. loss of sea ice in the arctic and the year’s event or being in the audience should visit TEDxUManitoba.com Michael Paterson is the chief implications this loss has. research scientist at the International During the breaks, groups of for updates.

Shooting tardigrades into space with UMSATS The experimental design of this endeavour and two courses dedicated to it Jeremiah Yarmie, staff

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he University of Manitoba Space Ramirez. teins, molecules derived from those Applications and Technology Viridiana contacted a tardigrade naturally found in glowing jellyfish.

Society’s (UMSATS) TSATS-2 researcher from St. Mary’s University When exposed to UV light, these Systems Team intends to probe the College in Calgary, who supplied the proteins shine back with a particuhostility and forgivingness of the UMSATS team with a sample of two lar colour. This way, it is possible to vacuum of space. different species, one of which was distinguish the tardigrades in orbit Tardigrades, also called water Milnesium. The UMSATS team on the satellite. bears, are micro-animals that are decided to use the same species as Department of biological sciences invisible to the naked eye. These ani- the specimens used on the European associate professor Steve Whyard is mals are of particular interest due Space Agency experiments. overseeing two special topics courses to their ability to survive in extreme in which the tardigrades will be environments. manipulated.

Upon rehydrating The UMSATS team plans on “We are trying to add two differintroducing tardigrades to the vac- the sample, the team ent fluorescent proteins [ . . . ] green uum of space and observing their fluorescent protein and red, whichobserved that the ability to endure this seemingly ever one works, or perhaps both,” said inhospitable environment.

Whyard. larger tardigrades The European Space Agency In the first course, which is curwere eating the program has previously shown that rently ongoing, the team is attempttardigrades of the species Milnesium ing to introduce the genes for these smaller ones tardigradum can survive this exposure fluorescent proteins into the tardiwhile in a dehydrated state. grades. They are doing this by injectThis venture is being carried out by Upon rehydrating the sample, the ing the genes directly into adult U of M researchers and students from team observed that the larger tardi- gonads and by using a device called several disciplines. Graduate student grades were eating the smaller ones. a gene gun. and biology systems lead Viridiana “We realized that they needed a “The gene gun delivers tiny microUrena Ramirez is overseeing the tar- food source,” said Ramirez. They particles, little gold particles, which digrade project. soon found out that the tardigrades are coated with the DNA. We’ll try The team was able to cultivate ate rotifers, microscopic animals shooting both adults and eggs, and small tardigrade samples from the found in freshwater environments. see if we can get delivery into the U of M campus, but was unable to Since the tardigrades inhabit the cells,” said Whyard. obtain enough specimens for the same sample as the rotifers, distinThe team is utilizing a transexperiment. guishing their movement from the poson system known as PiggyBac. “It says in the literature and rotifers was challenging.

Transposons are pieces of DNA everywhere you look on the Internet The team decided on genetically that have the ability to jump around that [tardigrades] are everywhere [ altering the tardigrades to make them between different DNA sites in a . . . ] but we couldn’t find any,” said glow by expressing fluorescent pro- cell, and could therefore help insert

graphic by bram keast, staff

the fluorescent protein gene into the Currently, a control sample of tardigrades’ DNA. tardigrades are being examined to A second special topics course for determine what their typical diet and the winter term involves investigating reproduction patterns are like. the inheritance of the glowing trait “We want to evaluate how much throughout generations. Whyard is oxygen they need and how many looking to recruit a student to take rotifers they eat [ . . . ] so that we on this project. The student would have enough for the experiment,” said carry out molecular analyses, while Ramirez. also receiving academic credit for The team plans to have their sateltheir work. lite completed by summer 2016.

The tardigrades will be contained in a simulated ecosystem chamber For more information about the spewithin the nanosatellite. The exper- cial topics course, stop by the team’s iment involves exposing the tardi- meet and greet occurring on Nov. 21 grades to the vacuum of space for one from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.on the first week. After that the chamber will be floor of Armes. Follow the progress of observed to see what the effects are the UMSATS team at umsats.ca on the tardigrades.

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Science & Technology

Science & Technology Editor: Chantelle Dubois Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Evolution and creationism in education still under debate Bill Nye’s new book brings the classroom science education discussion back into the spotlight Chantelle dubois, staff

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arlier this year Ken Ham challenged Bill Nye to debate on the topics of creationism and evolution as models of the origins of life. The debate took place on Feb. 4, 2014 at the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky and was streamed online to approximately three million people worldwide.

Ken Ham is a young Earth creationist who previously taught high school science. Young Earth creationism promotes the religious belief that the Earth was created less than 10,000 years ago as a result of an intelligent creator, a literal interpretation of the timeline of events presented in the Bible.

Ham is also the president of the Answers in Genesis organization.

Answers in Genesis is a non-profit global organization which actively refutes ideologies of evolution.

Both organizations promote creationism as the models for origins of life on Earth.

Many know Bill Nye as the host of the PBS children’s show Bill Nye the Science Guy. He is currently the executive director of the Planetary Society, an organization co-founded by astrophysicist Carl Sagan in 1980 to promote and advocate space, science, and engineering education to the public.

Nye’s book Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation was published on Nov. 4 of this year, months after the debate. Nye dedicates a chapter of this book to the

Answers in GenesisAustralia, has a Canadian branch with a headquarters in Ontario, which is actively involved in outreach across Canada to promote their viewpoints to the public.

In Manitoba, evolution is included in the grade 12 biology curriculum, and the grade 11 topics in science curriculum. Both classes are optional science electives for high school students. The theory graphic by Justin Ladia, volunteer staff is not included in science curriculums for claims made by Ham during the the grades prior. The province does debate. not make alternative viewpoints Nye is strongly opposed to on origins a mandatory classroom teaching creationism in classrooms science topic. in lieu of evolution. “I pointed out Regardless of an individual’s that without young people enter- viewpoint on creationism and evoing the science fields, especially lution, Nye continues to bring the engineering, the country will issues to the forefront of classroom fall behind other nations who do science education; it is a topic he is educate their kids in real science clearly passionate about. rather than the pseudoscience of Ham explained his creationcreationism.” ist approach to science during the debate with the statement, “creationists and evolutionists all have Approximately one- the same evidence [ . . . ] It’s not the evidences that are different. It’s third of Americans a battle over the same evidence in regard to how we interpret the past. reject evolution And you know why that is? Because as a theory of it is really about worldviews and starting points. It is a battle over origin. Around philosophical worldviews and starthalf of Canadians ing points with the same evidence.”

Near the end of the debate at the accept the theory Creation Museum, Bill Nye stated, of evolution “As my old professor Carl Sagan said so often, ‘When you’re in love, you want to tell the world.’ And I base Approximately one-third of my beliefs on the information and Americans reject evolution as a the process that we call science. It theory of origin. Around half of fills me with joy to make discoveries Canadians accept the theory of every day of things I’ve never seen evolution. before. It fills me with joy to know In the United States, six out of that we can pursue these answers.

50 states require students to ana- It is an astonishing thing that we lyze important aspects of evolution, are—you and I are—one of the providing them the opportunity to ways the universe knows itself.” critically think about the theory.

Creation Ministries International, a spinoff from

Science Fiction: we use 10 per cent of our brains Appreciating the power between our ears Jeremiah Yarmie, staff

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iscussed in this issue of Science Fiction: do we humans use only 10 per cent of our brains?

“The statement is a myth [ . . . ] We use every part of our brain, and areas that are really busy actually try to take over nearby areas that are slightly less used, or less strong,” said Tammy Ivanco, associate professor in the department of psychology.

Brain regions overtaking neighbouring areas is an example of neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to rewire neural pathways in response to behavioural or environmental changes, such as damage through physical injury. Through these neuroplastic mechanisms, the brain can change and remodel itself throughout a lifetime.

Neuroplastic remodelling can be observed in individuals who have lost the ability to utilize a specific region of the brain. In blind individuals, the region of the brain that deals with sight, the occipital cortex, can be overtaken and utilized by regions involved in processing other senses. The efficiency of overtaking unused regions shows that the brain is invested in maximizing the use of all of its real estate.

The human brain utilizes approximately 20 per cent of oxygen breathed while only comprising roughly 2.5 percent of overall body mass. It would be strange for evolution to have allowed for the development of an organ with such a high demand on bodily resources to be 90 per cent non-functional.

Different areas of the brain have different designated functions.

These different regions work in concert to act as a fully functional cohesive unit.

The most evolutionarily ancient region of the brain is the brain stem, which controls necessary life functions like breathing and heartbeat.

Damage of the brain stem can be critical, possibly resulting in a vegetative state or death. Brain stem injuries are particularly concerning because this area is involved with these critical functions.

The hippocampus is a region of the brain involved in learning and memory. A compromised hippocampus is the most common cause of brain injury-related memory and learning problems.

Individuals with hippocampal injury demonstrate impaired ability to learn and contextualize information.

Interestingly, individuals with hippocampal injury typically do not show perceptual and skill

learning impairment. This type of procedural learning, like how to ride a bike, is associated with brain regions like the motor cortex and cerebellum. Damage to the cerebellum has been shown to impair procedural learning.

The amygdala is involved in fear and emotional reactions. This area of the brain is part of a region known as the limbic system, which is highly invested in emotions. The left amygdala of a 44-year-old man was removed due to an abnormality which was resulting in him having seizures. The man, who previously had arachnophobia (the fear of spiders) found that after the surgery, he was no longer afraid of the eightlegged arthropods.

“The statement is a myth [ . . . ] We use every part of our brain, and areas that are really busy actually try to take over nearby areas that are slightly less used, or less strong” – Tammy Ivanco, associate professor in the department of psychology Despite only touching on a few areas of the brain, it is clear that every process has its own place, and each brain region has its own purpose.

The human brain is organized in a very precise way to optimize and carry out its many functions.

“I think the misperception is based on the idea that our brains are capable of so much more than most of us ever accomplish,” Mark Fry, department of biological sciences assistant professor, told the Manitoban.

The idea that each of us has the potential to access some hidden untapped inactive region of the brain may be desirable, but in reality the brain is fully utilized. The brain makes use of every region that is available to it, whether the regions are sufficient or lacking.

How we, as individuals, make use of our brains is another story.

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Comment Comment Editor: Tom Ingram Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Someone you like has done something bad Don't jump to Ghomeshi's defence just because you like his show Dave Shaw

photo by Sarjoun Faour

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hen the CBC announced He explains that he and his part- Park Boys) recounted an incident in that they had ended their ner were engaging in consensual 2003 in which Ghomeshi choked her relationship with Jian Ghomeshi, acts of BDSM and that they “joked to the point she could not breathe, the Internet exploded, with fans of about [their] relations being like a explaining: “He did not ask if I was Ghomeshi tweeting their collective mild form of Fifty Shades of Grey or a into it. It was never a question. It was outrage. story from Lynn Coady’s Giller-Prize shocking to me.”

Musician and author Amanda winning book last year.” In this way, Other women have presented Palmer was one of the first celebrities Ghomeshi subtly reframes the entire similar reports of unwanted sexual to vocally defend Ghomeshi—though situation to suggest that he is some- aggression, making it pretty difficult she later had a change of heart—and how being attacked for his “tastes in to view Ghomeshi as anything but a the structure of her defence is chill- the bedroom,” as they “may not be serial sexual predator. ingly representative of most argu- palatable to some folks.”

The roles of man exploiting his ments in Ghomeshi’s favour. She Ghomeshi also makes a point of position of power to commit sexual initially refused to acknowledge the discrediting the woman who brought abuse and thoughtful and charming allegations against him, stating that forward accusations of sexual abuse radio personality are not mutually “what happens behind closed doors is against him. He portrays her testi- exclusive. It is possible for a person never knowable,” and instead focused mony as a childish attack by an angry to be both. on him as a person, describing him as ex-girlfriend.His entire statement The idea that a sexual predator is a “ninja interview MASTER,” seem- essentially dismisses the woman as bound to be some kind of trenchingly suggesting that his skill and an unreliable or less credible source coated outcast creeping up behind charisma as an interviewer make him than himself, exploiting the same you in a dark alley is both naive and unlikely to be guilty of sexual abuse. dynamic of power that fuels sexual dismissive of the wider range of This seems like a pretty strange way abuse. Ghomeshi offers no evidence sexual abuse that can be committed to interpret these events, but a quick to support his interpretation of the against a person. glance at the comment section of any events. He simply presents himself as The fact that you like the way Jian one of the many articles written about inherently trustworthy while reduc- Ghomeshi conducts interviews does the “Ghomeshi Scandal” reveal that ing the accusations of this woman to not mean you should jump to his this view is only too common. an angry ex-girlfriend’s insubstantial defence when he is accused of doing Let’s look at what happened: “campaign of vengeance.” something bad. The fact that he Ghomeshi, after it became clear So far, at least nine women have seems like a nice and intelligent guy that the allegations against him were come forward with accounts accus- does not discredit the stories of these going to go public, took to Facebook ing Ghomeshi of sexual abuse. In an women. They deserve to be listened to. and posted an eloquent account of the interview with the Toronto Star, actor events from his point of view.

Lucy DeCoutere (Lucy from Trailer

10 Comment

Comment Editor: Tom Ingram Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

UMSU gets it right with political neutrality Radical politics have no place in student unions Ethan Cabel, staff

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t a time when more and more Canadians are attending university at different stages in their lives and for vastly different reasons, the idea of students comprising a uniform political constituency is increasingly absurd.

Even the cultural lingo of university life—characterized by tired, broke, and hungry young students cramming for their next midterm—is more and more removed from reality.

A full-time student living in residence, immersed in classes and the campus community, is now the exception rather than the rule.

Increasingly, students are attending university part-time and working to make ends meet, or living with their parents and working to pay their university tuition.

Moreover, as Canada approaches 70 per cent post-secondary education attainment, degree inflation is becoming a serious concern. A bachelor’s degree is slowly taking on the value of a high school diploma while a graduate degree has begun to replace a bachelor’s as the benchmark of higher education.

This has essentially created a market for post-secondary degrees that responds to supply and demand.

Departments or faculties like theology, classics and philosophy—fields once valued as intellectual pursuits in their own right—are now subject to budgetary review and tough questions as universities compete with colleges to facilitate applied skills that can lead directly to employment.

In short, there is nothing uniform about university student life anymore.

And, given that universities are now inextricably linked with the wider economy and labour market, there are no easy answers to some of the problems that post-secondary institutions must confront.

This is the environment that student unions like the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) and the University of Winnipeg Students’ Association (UWSA) must contend with. To what extent can a student union advocate for issues or

“It was a juvenile gradient of the candidates that failed to mask the subjectivity and bias of the organization; the Canadian Federation of Students represents all students and should be focused on presenting the information to its members and leaving them to decide,” Turnbull told the Manitoban.

“An arbitrary evaluation based on no metric is a fairly disgraceful way for a seemingly reputable organization to weigh in on civic politics.”

Zach Fleisher, the chairperson for CFS-Manitoba, is the former vicepresident advocate for the UWSA. He refused to comment on the report card when contacted by the Manitoban last month.

Indeed, the UWSA seems to agree with the CFS’s left-wing politics to a great extent.

In July, the UWSA was involved graphic by evan tremblay, staff with a Winnipeg Social Forum event titled “Building a People’s Agenda.” take a political stance given the difThe Winnipeg Social Forum is ferent, and often contradictory, politi- part of the national People’s Social cal views and practical interests of the Forum organization, which, accordstudent body it represents? ing to its website, seeks to build “a During the recent municipal elec- broad strategic alliance against neotion in Winnipeg, UMSU and the liberal and neo-conservative policies UWSA provided different answers to in Canada.” this increasingly important question.

The July event was held at the As far as UMSU was concerned, University of Winnipeg. Other there was no preferred result in the groups involved with the event municipal election. Winnipeggers included the left-wing Canadian would determine the best mayoral Dimension magazine, the Canadian candidate and council candidates Labour Congress, and the Council to represent them without UMSU’s help.

“We supported the vote and the democratic process but we certainly did not endorse a candidate because we knew we’d have to work with whoever won,” said Al Turnbull, UMSU president.

Meanwhile, UWSA president Rorie Mcleod Arnould voiced disappointment at the success of several right-leaning councillors while supporting re-elected councillors Jenny Gerbasi (Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry) and Ross Eadie (Mynarski).

Both Gerbasi and Eadie have ties to the NDP, the Canadian Union of Public Employees and the Canadian Labour Council.

The difference between the two student unions is illustrated by their degree of support for the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS), which collects fees from student unions across the country in order to advocate for what it determines to be uniform “student causes.”

The CFS is notorious for harbouring a left-wing or social democratic ideology, supporting tuition freezes, bottled water bans, lower fees for international students and a plethora of other left-wing causes.

In 2012, they supported the Quebec student strike over a modest increase in tuition fees in the province, which led to clashes with police in Montreal.

It was instructive that, when the Manitoba chapter of CFS retracted a Winnipeg mayoral candidate report card due to unclear assessment criteria, UMSU came down hard against the report card.

of Canadians.

It included workshops like “How do we stop Energy East?” (a pipeline from the Alberta oil sands), “How do we defeat the Conservative agenda?” and “Neo-liberalism and the assault on public education.” The latter workshop was led by the president, Rorie Mcleod Arnould and vice-president advocate, Peyton Veitch, of the UWSA.

While the idea of a neutral and benign organization that simply delivers services and fosters respectful pluralism isn't palatable to the more politically outspoken, it is ultimately the most realistic option available Imagine for a moment that the president of the UWSA presented at a right-wing forum or was affiliated with an organization that sought to build a broad strategic alliance against socialist and social demo-

cratic policies in Canada. They would rightly be dismissed as paranoid and politically exclusionary.

Ultimately, as student demographics change and as the utility of a post-secondary education evolves, student unions are faced with tough choices. They can either indulge in their own political activism, largely separate from the diversity of political views and practical concerns of a changing student body, or they can accept their limited role in political and campus life.

In this, I think UMSU has taken the right approach. While the idea of a neutral and benign organization that simply delivers services and fosters respectful pluralism isn’t palatable to the more politically outspoken, it is ultimately the most realistic option available.

It is also an option that doesn’t preclude taking strong stances on specific issues. For example, supporting policies to mitigate sexual harassment is important in ensuring a respectful campus environment for everyone. Furthermore, the U-Pass is a policy with broad-based appeal and universal benefits for students.

But these issues are few and far between, and should be debated and eventually supported for their universal benefits, not because they correspond to some radical ideological agenda, either from the left or the right.

Editorial

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Editor-In-Chief: vacant Contact: Editor@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Scratching the surface: Stories of self-harm TRIGGER WARNING: SELF-HARM Carolyne Kroeker, staff

I have been self-harming since grade seven, but haven’t cut myself since April. I was diagnosed with depression at a young age and was most recently diagnosed with PTSD, social anxiety, and OCD. Anything involving sex triggers me to commit selfharm as I was raped in grade 7.

Thoughts about my best friend Eddie, who committed suicide earlier this year, trigger me as well. For me, self-harm was an escape from my emotional pain, which I find intolerable in comparison to physical pain.

My cutting became an addiction, and I found myself needing to cut three to eight times a day just to get by. Although I haven’t been cutting for seven months, I sometimes pick at superficial wounds or put myself in harm’s way while playing sports to receive pain.

I have never felt comfortable going public about my selfharm story. My immediate circle is aware of my history with self-harm, but I have lost several “friends” who immediately labelled me an “attention whore.” Those who truly care about me stayed by my side and supported me by concerning themselves with the depth and cleanliness of my cuts. Although self-harm often accompanies many mood disorders, I believe it is a mental illness in itself.

-L

I have been engaging in I began engaging in selfself-harm since I was in grade harm in my early high school 10 and I have been cutting years, hoping to communimyself since grade 12. I have cate the severity of my menonly told a select few people tal state to those who saw my that I cut myself, and I will scars. Translating emotional likely never go to see a thera- pain into physical pain somepist or doctor due to a lack of how made what I was going trust. The number one thing through more tangible and that triggers me to engage in immediate, partly because self-harm is the ability to be society continues to prioriin control, as almost all of the tize bodily harm over mental traumatic situations that have trauma. I wish people wouldn’t occurred in my life have been so readily conf late selfcases where I had no way to harm with suicidal ideation. stop them/do anything about Although these often go hand them. Cutting enables me to in hand, someone engaging express my frustration and in self-harm is not necessarily anger in a way that serves as a seeking suicide. For some, selfreminder that I am in control. harm keeps suicidal impulses I see my arms, and know that at bay. I think some people everything that occurred was do not understand this, and because of me. I hide my scars in wanting to help self-harmand come up with lies about ers, simply tell them to stop. how they developed, since I This said, I’ve found that the don’t like to attract attention most positive way to support to myself. I don’t think many someone practising self-harm people feel comfortable show- is to make them feel welcome ing what they have done to in approaching you about it. themselves due to a fear that Secrecy around self-harm only others won’t understand and worsens the situation, as a selfwill treat them differently. harmer may seek to conceal Self-harm is a serious issue, their habits, making it difficult and if everyone was open to for their loved ones to check the discussion, it would truly in with them. A thoughtful, help the healing. non-judgmental way to support someone engaging in -M self-harm is to encourage them to take care of their wounds in order to avoid infection.

However, above all, listen.

-C

My mother tried to comI can pinpoint the beginmit suicide when she was 14, ning of my self-harm to the yet it wasn’t until she was 27 year I was sexually assaulted. that she was diagnosed with At 12 years old, I was too nermajor depression and anxiety. vous to try anything deeper My mother would engage than digging my nails into in self-harm when she was my skin. I didn’t want scars, stressed, namely about me and I feared being caught. and my brother or her finan- Ten years went by before I cial situation. I can’t personally tried it again. Last year, my speak for her, but as we were PTSD symptoms violently very close, I think that she spiked, and one night, my engaged in self-harm in hopes vision was completely overof feeling anything other than loaded by f lashbacks over sadness, even if it was pain. which I had no control. SelfPhysical pain was easier to harming brought me back to cope with than mental pain, reality. When I feel a loss of since she could control the control in my life, thoughts of physical pain. She would self-harm manifest. Through always cover the scars on her self-harm, I’m hoping to either arms by wearing long sleeves, gain a sense of control over my and wanted to get tattoos on body, have a routine that gives them to cover them. I think me stability when my life is she hid her self-harm because unstable, or force myself to of the stereotypes associated feel pain so I can focus on with mental illness, as people something other than my tend to see self-harm as a ploy disturbing mental state. I fear for attention. Considering that the stigma against self-harm; I she was a grown woman with don’t want to be judged. It’s my a professional background, her body, and I should be able to self-harm could also interfere do with it what I want. I hurt with her work and how people myself because it soothes me perceived her. My brother, my and helps me cope. I think this step-dad, and I only became is very hard to understand for aware of her self-harm after people who do not self-harm, I found her on the bathroom since they see it as inherently floor, unconscious and cov- negative without really conered in blood. After that, we sidering how helpful it can be were all much more aware for people. I’m not condoning of what she was doing. I feel self-harm, but I am saying that that self-harm is an uncom- it should be my choice, and, fortable and taboo subject, sometimes, desperate times mostly because it is difficult call for desperate measures. for many to understand why someone could possibly harm -K or kill themselves. What they do not understand is that the person wanting to engage in self-harm is often influenced by their mental illness. My mother took her own life last March.

I started cutting when I was 15 and stopped when I was in my early 20s. When engaging in self-harm, my mantra was always “release.” I could see, physically, the departure of my troubles through cutting.

It became a ritual: the preparation of tools, the anticipation, the fear, the acute pain followed by a rush of calming numbness. The release of stress, anger, frustration, and anxiety was made visible by the blood. I could spend time watching drops of “bad blood” leave my body and finally lie down feeling renewed. For years I kept my scars hidden under long sleeve shirts, armbands, and bracelets because I felt ashamed. Today I wear my scars with pride. I see them as markers of my progress in my mental health battles. About five years ago, I decided to get black bars tattooed over the scars near my right wrist. I see these tattoos as daily reminders to stop and think before resorting to cutting. I have found new ways to release the negativity inside: art, music, exercise, and, most importantly, talking to others. With medication I now experience less lows and live a much more balanced life.

-B

-N

photos by Carolyne Kroeker, staff

Arts & Culture Arts & Culture Editor: Lauren Siddall Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

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‘Diversity is our Strength’ Two Winnipeg filmmakers winners at national diversity committee’s film competition Ian T.D. Thomson, staff

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n Oct. 17, the Alliance of union. The Alliance of Canadian Canadian Cinema, Television Cinema, Television and Radio and Radio Artists (ACTRA) Artists hopes the competition will announced the winners for their promote and reflect the diversity in national diversity short film compe- Canada with the stories shared on tition. Two out of the four winners are screen.

Manitoba filmmakers Alan Wong and Fernando Dalayoan.

The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, “‘Diversity is our Television and Radio Artists is a Strength’ speaks union representing over 22,000 performers within English-language to the mandate media in Canada. Representing to allow all actors, a variety of professions including actors, choreographers, and pup- in all groups and peteers, ACTRA’s mandate is “to categories, an negotiate, administer, and enforce collective agreements to provide perequal opportunity formers with equitable compensation as well as safe and reasonable working to appear on our conditions.” screens, and tell Within ACTRA is the national diversity committee, which focuses our Canadian on the concerns regarding casting of stories” – Talia Pura, ethnic minorities, Aboriginal Peoples, and performers with disabilities. Past president, ACTRA initiatives by the volunteer commitManitoba branch tee include the administration of an online guide for auditioning deaf performers.

The short film competition—con“ACTRA Manitoba is very proud ducted by the diversity committee— that two of the four winners of this was the first of its kind within the challenge come from our branch.

This challenge was open to diverse Training Manitoba. Wong is also a a Filipino man new to Canada and members right across the country,” singer-songwriter, having released a a Filipino-Canadian woman at a explains ACTRA Manitoba branch five-song EP, Sand & Stone, earlier Winnipeg bus stop. Faced with difpresident Talia Pura. this year. ferent forms of discrimination, the Having won the competition “The theme of ‘Diversity is our two connect at more than just a culbased on their script proposals, the Strength,’ to me, means that the tural level. winners now must complete a short more diverse our representation in For the competition’s upcoming one- to two-minute film based on films and television programming, short film, Dalayoan will continue the theme “Diversity is our Strength.” the more appeal and acceptance those with themes he has explored in past “‘Diversity is our Strength’ speaks shows will have with our chang- projects. to the mandate to allow all actors, in ing demographics,” Wong tells the “The title of my film is called all groups and categories, an equal Manitoban.

Hearing Diversity,” Dalayoan says. opportunity to appear on our screens “Visible minorities make up the “The film’s message is to move and tell our Canadian stories,” Pura largest growing portion of our popu- diversity beyond being seen on the says. lation; yet, traditional white-centric screen. We should not marginalize For the two Manitoba filmmakers, casting is still pervasive in most of diversity, but instead provide it with the theme hit close to home. our [television] shows and movies – a greater, stronger voice.”

“As an Asian male, I tend to get not just in Canada, but all of North “What makes Canada so great typecast into the following roles: America.” for me [is] the diversity of individuals, doctor, office nerd, triad thug/gang Fernando Dalayoan, of Blue talents, and cultures [that are] alive in boss. I’ve had to audition with an Water Buffalo Productions, is the this wonderful nation. It’s important accent countless times and always for other Winnipeg winner. to have that heard on screen loudly supporting or small roles,” explains Dalayoan has had success mak- with confidence,” said Dalayoan.

Asian-Canadian filmmaker and actor ing short films as a writer, director, “Diversity is a strength we have in Alan Wong. producer, and actor. Having had his Canada and we need to make sure we Alan Wong is the eldest son of two work featured at events such as the nurture it well.”

Chinese immigrants. An actor for Filipino International Film Festival 20 years, Wong began his career in and Vancouver Asian Film Festival, The winners are set to complete theatre at the University of Brandon. Dalayoan’s films reflect his cultural their short films in January Over time, he began learning about heritage as a Filipino-Canadian. of 2015. For more information writing and cinematography through In his 2010 short film Tutulungan on ACTRA, visit actra.ca Manitoba organizations such as the Kita (I’ll Help You), Dalayoan tells Winnipeg Film Group and Film the story of a relationship between

VOL. 101 NO. 42 November 12, 2014

Arts & Culture

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30 years worth of Rumor’s Comedy club celebrates anniversary with four nationally renowned comics Ian T.D. Thomson, staff

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here is nothing inherently funny “In the beginning it was tough,” says “The reason this club is also suc- the night—Derek Edwards, Mike Laughs Festival in Montreal. about Winnipeg. Apart from general manager and booker Tyler cessful is the room itself [ . . . ] It’s a Wilmot, Darryl Lenox, and Dave Accolades aside, Hemstad remains being the butt of jokes regarding our Schultz. very intimate atmosphere,” Schultz Hemstad—all bring a unique spin modest for the Rumor’s anniversary cold winters, rarely do Winnipeggers “In the 80s it was a brand new con- explains to the Manitoban. to the comedy game. show and praises the other three have much to laugh about. Rumor’s cept of having a venue just for standup From September to October of While the four have gained suc- comics. has always been the exception to the comedy. But, once they got it going, this year, Rumor’s was shut down cess across Canada, all have a con“On this show, I sure wouldn’t be it’s been going strong for 30 years.” rule. for renovations. The comedy club nection to the Winnipeg club. One offended if they thought somebody In celebrating its 30th anniversary Schultz cites a few ingredients now has a new look. Along with the of the comedians, Hemstad, speaks else was funnier. Because it’s one of in Winnipeg, Rumor’s Restaurant that have led to Rumor’s’ longevity. brand new paint job and new flooring, highly of the club and its impact on the funniest shows I’ve ever been a “There’s the business of trying to there have been extensive updates to his career. and Comedy Club will be hosting part of,” says Hemstad. a concert series on Nov. 14 and 15 go after bigger name acts and bring the kitchen.

“I mean each one of these guys [ . .

“I feel like I’ve grown as a comedfeaturing four renowned headlining them to an intimate atmosphere [ .

After its grand re-opening on Oct. ian through my experiences working . ] were guys I was huge fans of when comics: Derek Edwards, Mike . . ] Nearly all the major top comics 31, Rumor’s is ready to celebrate a there, so I’m always happy to come I started up [ . . . ] It’s really awesome Wilmot, Darryl Lenox, and Dave have come through here at one point.” big anniversary with an even bigger back. They treat me like family there to be on the show with them.”

Hemstad.

Rumor’s has showcased perform- celebration. and I love playing it,” says Hemstad.

Rumour’s remains Winnipeg’s ances by some of the leading comics of “This is probably the greatest Hemstad is the youngest of the Rumor’s Restaurant and Comedy only comedy club. Having lasted the past 30 years. Household names lineup you’ll ever see for a show in four comedians to take the stage for Club celebrates their 30th annithree decades, Rumour’s’ success such as Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Winnipeg,” says Schultz. “The four the anniversary show. Beginning his versary Nov. 14 and 15.. The night cannot be attributed to dumb luck; and Louis C.K. have all performed headliners we’re bringing in are all professional career as a comic in 2001, will also feature a special surprise several competing comedy clubs have at the club. The club still continues comedy legends. They’re all really big, Hemstad has been nominated three comedian. For more information failed over the years. times for the Canadian Comedy on the event and upcoming events, to be a hub for comedy in Winnipeg, like heavyweight, headliners.”

“I’m even struggling to figure out Award. Hemstad has also played the visit rumorscomedyclub.com While the comedy club is celebrat- having brought in Kevin Heffernan ing its longevity now, there was con- and Steve Lemme of Super Troopers the order [for the acts].”

Winnipeg Comedy Festival, as well cern when it initially began in 1984. fame earlier this month.

The four comedians featured for as the nationally recognized Just for

Big time [Austin] star Shakey Graves Lauren Siddall, staff

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ustin, Texas native Alejandro other instrumentalists were added Rose-Garcia—dubbed Shakey to enhance the sound and create the Graves by his friends around the musical complexity depicted within campfire—extends beyond his And the War Came.

Bandcamp digital bestselling, angstShakey Graves also collaborated filled debut album Roll the Bones in his with another singer/songwriter, new record, And the War Came.

Esme Patterson, on three songs on “The first album was me wanting the album. Patterson—member of to burn my life down, cut my hair off, the Denver-based band, Paper Bird— and run screaming into the woods. contributes to Shakey Graves’ sound This album is the trials and tribu- with hauntingly beautiful harmonilations of becoming domesticated, letting people into your world, and letting go of selfishness – the story of becoming a pair, losing that, and reconciling the loss and gain of love,” says Rose-Garcia.

In addition to the matured themes within the new album, there is also an expansion of musical complexity, starting with the recording process.

Roll the Bones introduced Shakey Graves’ mesmerizing voice—ranging from raspy to smooth as silk—accompanied by himself on the guitar and makeshift kick drum made from an old suitcase.

And the War Came grows beyond Shakey Graves’ charming introduction, illustrating his development as an artist while establishing his place in the musical world.

“This time, I was making something people were going to listen to out of the gate. I tried to maintain everything I enjoy about recording, the weird homemade aspect, but I was seeking a new, shining sound quality. The concepts for the songs are a little bigger.”

Although at the core of the home recording of his latest album is Shakey Graves and his guitar,

zation and lyrical work.

“We started out just having fun and writing, and then that turned into some of my favourite songs on the album,” says Shakey Graves.

“We actually wrote ‘Dearly Departed’ on Halloween as a tonguein-cheek, haunted house sex joke, and then we played it that night and people went bonkers. Esme and I write so similarly it kind of freaked

us out, and I really learned the power of writing music with someone you get along with.”

Their compatibility is clearly illustrated through the interwoven harmonies of the songs Patterson contributed to, and is crucial in the development of the underlying theme of the album: the idea of the other.

“It’s not about any single person; it’s about being that second, other per-

son. Even the title – I never thought about whether I was able to handle that aspect of things, of having these relationships. And the War Came is a little bit of ‘be careful what you wish for.’”

Shakey Graves plays at the Park Theatre in two sold out shows Nov. 24 and 25. His album, And the War Came, is available now.

photo Lauren Siddall, staff

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Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture Editor: Lauren Siddall Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Fuel your caffeine addiction

Explore Winnipeg’s local coffee shops while stocking up Lauren Siddall, staff

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n the heat of finals, midterms, and research papers, it is easy to fall to the same coffee shop every day – where each barista at all the chain coffee shops in a 10-km radius of your house knows your order. Take a walk on the wild side and explore some of Winnipeg’s local coffee shops to support local businesses while fuelling your ever-growing caffeine dependency.

The Good Will

No, this is not the thrift store.

Located in West Broadway, one of our city’s trendiest emerging neighbourhoods, the Good Will is definitely a top new Winnipeg venue.

This coffee shop doubles as a concert venue at night, set to showcase the Strumbellas on Nov. 11, and has already seen dancers from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet perform on stage – and the Good Will has only been open for approximately two weeks.

During the day, they serve the standard coffee drinks one would expect: cappuccinos, lattes, Americanos, and good, old-fashioned brewed coffee – but if you’re lucky, they’ll add chocolate to your drink to sweeten your morning. If that isn’t the sweet you’re looking for, they also receive fresh bakery goods from the Tall Grass Prairie Bakery.

They cater to savoury-loving Winnipeggers too, with A Little Pizza Heaven serving their pizza

starting at 11 a.m.

Bonus: if you stick around long enough, they start serving liquor at 5 p.m. They have over 12 craft beers on tap, including the locally brewed Fort Garry and Half Pints. Accompanied by a great playlist, this location is a win on all sides.

Stated in their mandate, the Good Will intends to “provide and support a home away from home for Winnipeg’s ever changing members of the community.” Supporting art, music, and most of the city’s eclectic trendsetters, the Good Will is heading in the right direction.

The Good Will is located at 625 Portage Avenue, and is open Monday through Saturday.

Thom Bargen

In the heart of Sherbrook, Thom Bargen has quickly become a favourite for hipsters and businessmen alike. Roasting beans from Phil & Sebastian, Matchstick, Bows & Arrows, and 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters, these folks serve only the good stuff. They also have all the coffee they serve available for purchase to brew in the comfort of your pajamas at home.

The décor is something to rave about. With the recent installation of Natalie Baird’s mural, the atmosphere has been perfectly crafted for sitting down to study or meet with old friends. The counters and tables

are made out of natural wood, creating a rustic, inviting location.

This intimate coffee shop has been essential in the establishment of a fresh community in West Broadway.

The stunning natural light and open concept have made Thom Bargen a hub for artists, musicians, students, and families to meet for a cup of perfectly brewed coffee.

Thom Bargen is located at 64 Sherbrook Street and is open Monday through Sunday to fuel your day.

Parlour Coffee

Located on Main Street, Parlour Coffee has become a staple source of brewed beverages for many Winnipeggers. Each cup of coffee is ground to order, ensuring the freshest brew for customers. Proudly serving and selling North America’s leading micro coffee roasters, including the popular 49th Parallel and Phil & Sebastian, Parlour Coffee chooses the best.

If coffee is not enough for you, Tall Grass Prairie Bakery, Jonnies Sticky Buns, and Oh Doughnuts supply fresh baked goods daily because “Day olds are so yesterday.” Parlour Coffee also likes to give away secrets and share brewing tips with customers; for those without the time to come talk to the baristas in person, they are in the process of putting videos and recipes online.

Parlour Coffee aims to support

photos by Lauren Siddall, staff

artists, opting to display art within the café that is available for sale when inquired.

Paul Butler’s “Who Cares?” will be exhibited until Dec. 4. Butler’s practice is primarily focused on the community, collaboration, and artistrun activity. Butler’s work is held in several public and private collections including the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Royal Bank of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, in addition to his ongoing studio practice.

Parlour Coffee is located at 468 Main Street and is open Monday through Saturday.

Little Sister Coffee Maker

The “younger sibling of Parlour Coffee,” Little Sister Coffee Maker is slotted in Osborne Village. Decked out in white, teal, and black, this

coffee shop has a retro feel to it – accented by a record player, their musical medium of choice.

They serve the same qualityroasted coffee as Parlour Coffee— focusing on Bows & Arrow and Detour—and have more seating, as well as a mouth-watering selection of pastries served fresh daily. They also follow Parlour Coffee’s model of selling the coffee they roast in store, as well as all sorts of other coffee accessories and, most importantly, fair trade organic chocolate – yum.

Little Sister Coffee Maker combines the best of Parlour Coffee with a more convenient location and more accessible parking. Little Sister Coffee Maker is located at 470 River Avenue and is open seven days a week.

VOL. 101 NO. 42 November 12, 2014

Arts & Culture

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Casting Shadows

Manitoba artist encapsulates the beauty of our province Daniel Montanino

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eginning Nov.. 7, Manitoba artist Bette Woodland’s exhibit, Casting Shadows, will be showcased at the Gurevich Fine Art gallery. The exhibit features scenes of Manitoban life and landscape.

Woodland creates paintings of people and places within Manitoba by capturing the vast beauty of the prairies through the juxtaposition of bright highlights and dark shadows.

This exhibit will include 20 paintings by Woodland and with titles such as “Churchill Park” and “Storm: Lester Beach,” it is easy to see how local the focus will be.

Woodland says “the experience of a specific landscape of whatever sort is central to an understanding of who we are as individuals.” As Manitobans, this is relevant to the blistering hot summers and frigidly cold winters found within our province.

The paintings featured in this exhibit differ from each other in size but are all effective at pulling the viewer in.

The small and vibrant “Zeus in the Garden” captures nature in a tight space that draws whoever is looking at it in for a closer look, while the large painting, “Wave,” engulfs and surrounds the viewer with its immensity.

The curators at Gurevich Fine Art believe that “at her core, Woodland is concerned with the capturing of life’s moments.” This is apparent in her paintings – most evidently in “Lester Creek,” which features three boys playing in a creek together during the summer. This piece brings up memories of exploration and adventure experienced by people during childhood.

Woodland creates paintings of people and places within Manitoba by capturing the vast beauty of the prairies through the juxtaposition of bright highlights and dark shadows Shown in Woodland’s paintings are images of dogs, cats, and children, none of which are ever seen directly

by the viewer. Woodland obscures the faces of these characters by showing them from the side or from behind. This creates an interesting contrast of anonymity and familiarity within the pieces.

In addition to Casting Shadows, the Gurevich Fine Art gallery has older pieces from Woodland on display.

Woodland also illustrated a children’s book entitled A Walk in Pirate’s Cove, written by Winnipeg author Marisa Hochman. This book features oil paintings similar in style to the ones included in Casting Shadows.

This is an important exhibit for any Manitoban to view. Not only does it invoke feelings of nostalgia in those who grew up in Manitoba; it reminds us of the natural beauty that our province has. Viewing these pieces will have Manitobans remembering their time spent with friends, at the beach, or looking up at the clouds in the sky.

Casting Shadows will be displayed from Nov. 7-29 at Gurevich Fine Art (200-62 Albert Street), open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday to Friday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

“Wave,” photo taken by Ian McCausland

Diversions Graphics Editor: Bram Keast Contact: graphics@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

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illustration by Mariana Munoz Gomez

graphic by Evan Tremblay, staff

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Sports Sports Editor: Mike Still Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Split decisions

Men and women’s volleyball teams split weekend series vs. UBC David Grad, staff

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oth the Bison men and wom- we’re in a really tough stretch right en’s volleyball teams were in now.” tough this weekend at home against Despite the split, Bentley was UBC Thunderbird squads, ranked happy with his team’s level of effort. second and fourth place in the “I’m very pleased with the fight we had; we put ourselves in a posiCanada West, respectively.

The Bison men’s team lost Friday tion to win every set.” night’s match against UBC 3-1 (25Friday night was a rollercoaster 16, 26-24, 26-28, 25-20), but came ride of emotions for the crowd, as roaring back on Saturday night to the Bisons started the weekend off earn the split decision 3-1 (16-25, by completely dominating UBC in 22-25, 25-23, 15-25). Saturday’s result the first set 25-12. The Thunderbirds was the first loss dealt to UBC in crawled back into the game, narsix games and demonstrated how rowly winning the next two sets. good the Bisons Neither the crowd nor the can be.

Bisons quit on “I’m excited when we beat a the game, and “We just have team I consider the home team to be one of the fought their to find a way to way back with top three teams keep that passion a dominating in the country,” head coach performance in and that support Garth Pischke the fourth and on the court said. a blow-for-blow “To control battle in the every night” – the match like fifth.

Garth Pischke, that, it’s a good Saturday feeling to know n ight was head coach, we can do it. a tougher We just have matchup for the men’s volleyball to find a way to Bisons. The loss keep that paskeeps the Bisons sion and that below .500, but support on the court every night.” Bentley doesn’t feel their record The Bisons came out with energy merits panic. and precision Saturday night, com“We’ve had a chance to win every pletely dominating UBC in the match except one. We are playing first and fourth sets. Manitoba an incredibly difficult first half continues to get big offensive pro- schedule, and so I am really pleased duction from Devren Dear, Adam with the level of fight we have.”

DeJonckheere, and Luke Herr.

Captains Rachel Cockrell and DeJonckheere led the Bisons this Brittany Habing continue to be weekend with 36 kills and 14 digs, bright spots for the team. Cockrell Dear had 27 kills plus 15 digs, and picked up 32 kills over the weekend Herr picked up 87 assists plus 15 digs. and Habing added 64 assists. In the The Bisons also received solid absence of departed veterans from contributions from Kenny Rooney last year’s National Championship and Kevin Falconer, who had 16 team, Cockrell and Habing have and 13 kills, respectively. Rooney led by example for younger players also picked up 14 blocks. seeing action this year.

The Bison women’s team faced “First of all, their level of work is the UBC Thunderbirds this week- extraordinary,” Bentley said. end for the first time since beating “They are so committed to this them in Regina in the CIS gold university and our program. I think medal game. The Bisons won the first-year kids really appreciate Friday night’s matchup in a five- seeing that; I mean how could you set thriller (12-25, 25-23, 25-22, 18-25, not?”

17-19), but dropped Saturday night The Bisons are in tough again 3-1 (25-22, 19-25, 25-21, 25-22). next week as both the men and When asked about any lingering women’s teams take on strong emotions from Nationals between University of Brandon squads on the two teams, head coach Ken the road.

Bentley felt both teams were more focused on their current fight in the CIS standings than in the emotions of a rematch narrative.

“The weekend was so important for both of our teams. We had a chance to get back to .500 tonight.

The split is a bit disappointing, but

Opposites attract, collide Men’s hockey suffers two tight losses against first-ranked Alberta Mike Still, staff

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oving into this weekend’s fifth goal of the season. Manitoba Reid Gow (4:28) and Merasty (14:26 men’s hockey action, the would take their momentum into on the power play), while Alberta University of Manitoba Bisons and the locker room, and came out answered back with goals from Alberta Golden Bears were heading aggressive in the third.

Levko Koper (1:43) and Foster (12:41 Taylor Dickin gave the Bisons on the power play). in two different directions. Alberta, the top team in the CIS, had won 10 their first lead of the game at 5:56 Manitoba had a few quality straight games, whereas Manitoba of the third, capitalizing on an chances to even the score in the had lost three out of their last four Alberta giveaway in their own zone. third period, but Alberta goalie games. Despite the disparity in the Manitoba would hold onto that lead Luke Siemens stayed poised in net. two teams’ records, Manitoba gave until the final seven minutes, where The only goal came from Jordan the Golden Bears all they could Alberta took over.

Hickmott, who tallied an empty handle, falling just short in both The Golden Bears tied the game netter in the final 15 seconds to matchups. up at 13:12 on a Johnny Lazo goal, cement the Alberta win.

Friday’s contest featured a third and retook the lead just over two Despite the t wo losses, period come-from-behind victory, minutes later off of the stick of Manitoba head coach Mike Sirant as Alberta pulled off a 3-2 win. Riley Kieser, which proved to be was proud of his team’s play against The Golden Bears were all over the game-winner for Alberta. the top team in the nation, notthe Bisons offensively, applying 46 After giving up a late third ing their shift in aggressiveness on shots to goalie Deven Dubyk, who period lead, the Bisons were look- Saturday. stayed composed all game long. ing for redemption on Saturday “I thought overall we had a really Alberta threw 26 shots at Dubyk night. Unfortunately it wasn’t strong performance. Friday night’s in the first period alone, but could meant to be, as Alberta emerged game we hung around to keep it only come up with one goal, from with a 4-2 win. close, and tonight we actually put T.J. Foster 3:03 into the first frame Manitoba came out flat in the a lot more pressure on Alberta,” on the power play. The Bisons first period, perhaps still rattled Sirant said. “I thought our guys appeared to be overwhelmed by from the night before. They man- competed hard tonight, I thought the Golden Bears in the first 20 aged just three shots on net, and we played well. minutes, as they struggled to find found themselves down off of a Kruise Reddick goal at 7:50.

The men will stay at home this weeka rhythm.

The second period was a difThe second period saw the tempo end, welcoming the Calgary Dinos ferent story, as Manitoba tied the pick up, as both squads increased to town, on Nov. 14 and 15. Game game up at 9:37. Shaquille Merasty their physicality and pressure. The times are 7 and 6 p.m., respectively. crashed the net, and potted his Bisons would receive goals from

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Sports

Sports Editor: Mike Still Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Taking the road less travelled

Bison football team endures hotel disaster, secures trip to Canada West final Mike Still, staff

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attling the odds, and an hour and a half bus ride, the University of Manitoba Bison football team pulled off a character win on Friday night in Saskatchewan. Forced to stay in Prince Albert due to a lack of available rooms in Saskatoon, the team channelled their frustrations on the football field, en route to a 47-39 victory over the Huskies, their first on the road this season.

In a back and forth contest that featured over 900 yards of total offence, it was the Bison defence that stepped up to change the momentum in the second half. Starting halfbacks Jayden McKoy and Jordan Linnen led the way with two interceptions apiece, while defensive end Evan Foster recorded a team-high 9.5 tackles, to go with two sacks.

The first seven minutes of the

opening quarter were all Manitoba’s.

The second half looked to be They scored touchdowns on back- much of the same for Saskatchewan, to-back drives to start the game, as as Chow continued to chip away at quarterback Jordan Yantz—who was the Bison defence. He scored on the making his return to lineup after opening drive of the third quarter suffering a concussion against his – this time on an 18-yard pass, to opposition, the Huskies earlier in the increase the Huskies’ lead to 19. year—found receivers Matt Sawyer Just as it looked like Manitoba (16-yard pass) and Nic Demski (26 was fading away, McKoy woke the yard pass) to open up a 14-0 lead. team up. After a Bison turnover on After giving up two quick scores, downs gave the ball right back to Saskatchewan woke up, outscoring Saskatchewan, the Miles Macdonell the Bisons 30-4 in the following graduate made the game-shifting quarter-and-a-half. Running back play, intercepting Drew Burko for Tyler Chow was unstoppable during the second time, and taking the ball that time, putting up 79 yards on the 54 yards to the house.

The pick six began a string of 22 ground, and two majors.

After beginning the game with unanswered points for Manitoba, momentum, the Bison offence went who would retake the lead. This time, cold, registering just three first downs they wouldn’t give it up.

Along with the McKoy intercepin the second quarter. Heading into tion, Manitoba got two field goals the break, the Huskies led 30-18.

from Ryan Jones, a 21-yard fumble recovery off of a blocked punt for a touchdown by Linnen, and a safety to make the score 40-37.

When asked how the team was able to able to respond so effectively in the second half, McKoy was very direct.

“You just have to trust in your teammates and your coaches, have the will to win, and go out and play football,” McKoy said.

Saskatchewan would narrow the lead to one, with just over seven minutes left to play, but couldn’t pull off the comeback, as the Bison defence held strong. Linnen intercepted Burko on two consecutive drives at the end of the fourth to seal the deal.

Yantz, who finished the game with 373 yards passing and two touchdowns, also added his first

receiving touchdown of the year, on a flea flicker from Demski to cap the scoring.

Despite the frustration of having to bus in from Prince Albert, Linnen said the team’s spirits were pretty high.

“Our mindset was we can either let all the things that were not going our way, in terms of where we were staying, affect us, or we could use it as fuel to the fire and take it out on Saskatchewan, and that’s what we did.”

With the win, Manitoba moves onto the Hardy Cup for a second consecutive season, and will travel to face the Calgary Dinos in a rematch of last year’s Canada West final, which the Dinos won. Game time is 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15.

Photo by Jordan Dumba

Bison briefs

Hockey and basketball David Grad, staff

Women’s hockey

The University of Manitoba Bison women’s hockey team took on one of the Canada West’s top teams this weekend, losing Friday night 1-0 and winning Saturday night 4-3 against the University of Alberta.

The weekend series ties the Bisons in points with the University Alberta in the conference, but keeps them one place behind in the standings due to the Pandas never having to close out a game in overtime.

Friday was a tough defensive matchup, featuring only 40 shots between the two teams. Rachel Dyck continued her stellar year for the Bisons, stopping 18 of 19 shots

sent her way in the loss.

Manitoba broke the ice Saturday night, netting four goals past Panda goaltender Lindsey Post in a 4-3 victory. Caitlin Fyten, Charity Price, Nicole McGlenen, and Alanna Sharman all scored for the Bisons.

On Thursday, McGlenen told this reporter she was going to score against the Pandas, and came through with her first goal of the season on Saturday. Also notching her first goal of the season was Price.

Sharman scored her eighth of the season, the second most goals scored by any skater in the Canada West.

The Bisons face off against Calgary on the road again next weekend.

Women’s basketball

ing 10 points. Eyer also contributed The Bison women’s basketball nine points in the loss. team dropped both their matches against the Regina Cougars this Men’s basketball weekend, losing Friday night 71-60 The men’s team faced their first and Saturday night 91-55. loss of the season on Friday night, The Bisons led the Rams 48-42 losing 98-85 in a high scoring affair. after the first three quarters on Friday The Bisons rallied back Saturday, night, but weren’t able to maintain narrowly edging out the Cougars their strong play, conceding an 18-6 90-88 to stay above .500 with a 3-1 run in the first five minutes of the record. fourth quarter. Robyn Eyer led the Friday night was a tough match for Bisons with 22 points, eight baskets, the Bisons, who were unable to keep and two three-pointers. pace with the motivated Cougars. A.J. The Bisons trailed in three of Basi, who had 18 points from the field four quarters on Saturday night, los- and buried four of his 12 three-point ing by a wide margin to the Rams. attempts, led the Bisons in scoring.

Samantha Pyke led the Bisons, scor- Andre Arruda and Jonathan Alexander

both contributed 16 points from the field in their first loss of the season.

Saturday night was a close match that saw the Bisons exchange leads with the Rams every quarter. The Bisons went on to win in overtime by two points – a fitting ending to the game.

Arruda led the Bisons from the field with 14 points and Basi drained three shots from beyond the arc..

Both basketball teams will host Brandon at home next weekend at the Investors Group Athletic Centre.Game times are 6 p.m., and 5 p.m. for the women, and 8 p.m., and 7 p.m. for the men.

VOL. 101 NO. 42 November 12, 2014

Sports

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Picking the rookie

Calvin Pickard: The story behind a young goaltender from Winnipeg who made it to the big leagues Andy Che, volunteer staff

Introduction

“It was a very good experience for Winnipeg, Manitoba. The city me. I mean, playing in two Canadian home to around 700,000 marks buildings and in packed houses and the stomping ground to some of getting thrown into the game on the NHL’s most elite players, past Thursday,” Pickard said, after his and present. The Manitoba capital first two games in the NHL. “I had no time to think about it so is highlighted with a collection of youth hockey clubs harbouring the I got right in there and it was nice next generation of Bill Mosienkos, for me, and then to have the start Mike Keanes, and Jonathan Toews. on Saturday in Montreal – every kid It’s an especially proud moment dreams of that, and I thought I did when this continually growing munic- pretty well.” ipality sees one of its own succeed.

On Oct. 16th, the Manitoba AAA Brotherly love Winnipeg Wild witnessed one of their Calvin isn’t the first member of very own mark his entrance into the the Pickard clan to have taken the NHL with the Colorado Avalanche. goaltending position to a professional level. Chet, three years Calvin’s The debut senior, was the Nashville Predators When the Colorado Avalanche first-round draft selection in 2008. visited the Ottawa Senators on the Earmarked as one for the future, fifth game of the 2014-15 season, the Chet starred for Tri-City between team had scored just four goals in 2005 and 2009, admirably steptheir previous four games and were ping into the starter’s role for the shut out in their opening two.

Americans in place of Carey Price, Starting goalie Semyon Varlamov who departed junior to challenge for had been placed on injured reserve a spot in the NHL in 2007. just hours before puck drop, backup Drafted 38th overall by the Reto Berra would get the nod against Western Hockey League’s (WHL) the Senators, who boasted a 3-1 Seattle Thunderbirds, Calvin had record. Scrambling for an emergency some serious work to do in order to backup, Colorado called up prospect catch up to his big brother. At nine Calvin Pickard, a three-year veteran years old, their father asked Calvin of the AHL’s Lake Erie Monsters. to choose between carrying on his Three minutes into the game, hockey as a skater or a goaltender.

Colorado’s John Mitchell checked Following in his brother’s footsteps, Kyle Turris in the crease, causing Calvin opted for playing between the the Ottawa forward to collide with pipes, and the rest is history.

Berra. Turris’ shoulder drove into the While Chet represented the goaltender’s mask, prompting Berra Manitoba AAA Midget Hockey to collapse into the back of his net, League’s Winnipeg Monarchs in before he was removed as per concussion protocol. With the Avalanche up 1-0 at the time, Pickard entered the game, marking his NHL debut under dire circumstances.

Pickard held Ottawa at bay for the first two periods of his NHL career, making 17 saves on 19 shots.

The Avalanche seemed destined to leave their sluggish start to the season behind them, bombarding the Senators, leading 3-1 after the first period. The home side diligently recovered, though, scoring four unanswered goals in the last two periods, including an empty netter.

Pickard stopped 23 shots from 27.

Two days later, Pickard made his first NHL start at the Bell Center in Montreal. The occasion came in a stadium where the rafters featured the retired numbers of goaltending legends Jacques Plante and Ken Dryden. Pickard more than held his own during a second NHL appearance, making 33 saves in a 3-2 loss.

Though the 22-year-old debutant could not halt the surging Senators team nor the triumph of the Montreal side, his timely appearance and persistent performance in his first tastes of NHL action is evidence that the top-ranked goaltender of the 2010 draft is emerging into a reliable figure for a young and budding Colorado franchise.

AAA, Calvin played for their league seasons splitting time with Sami rivals, the Winnipeg Wild, before Aittokallio in Lake Erie, before a making the jump to the WHL in call-up to Colorado marked Calvin 2008. as the first Pickard brother to appear Despite carrying similar résumés in the National Hockey League, also in the WHL, Chet somewhat over- at the age of 22. shadows Calvin at a quick glance of The young net-minder who had their junior careers. been on his brother’s tail for so many Chet won the Del Wilson Trophy years had finally overtaken his elder. as the WHL’s regular season top goaltender and bagged a gold medal “We are proud to select…” with Team Canada at the 2009 Amongst North American World Junior Championships. Calvin goaltenders, Calvin, and World became a finalist for the most valu- Junior Championship standout Jack able WHL goaltender in 2010 and Campbell, who had won gold with won gold with the U18 Canada side Team USA that draft year, had sepaat the 2009 Ivan Hlinka tourna- rated themselves amongst the rest ment. He was shortlisted for the 2011 of the competiiton heading into the Canadian World Junior team, but did 2010 NHL Entry Draft. not make the cut.

Despite Calvin’s ranking as the top North American goaltender, the Minor adjustment eventual second round selection went Both goaltenders spent time in behind Campbell (11th), and OHL the AHL – Chet with the Predators goaltender Mark Visentin (27th), affiliate the Milwaukee Admirals, a future Canadian World Junior and Calvin with the Lake Erie medallist.

Monsters. If the AHL stage is a tesA projected late first-rounder, tament of how a prospect’s short-term Calvin was not called until position future will pan out, then it certainly number 49, a Colorado pick. Despite yielded trusty insight into the fate of Colorado’s selection of Aittokallio the Pickard brothers. later in that draft, and the slew of Chet spent a frustrating three sea- goaltenders in the team’s system, sons with Milwaukee and Cincinnati Calvin would eventually rise to top of the East Coast Hockey League, of the Colorado prospects class. unable to climb up the Predators’ goaltending pipeline. In 2012, Beware of future Nashville cut their ties with the 18th Avalanches overall pick of 2008, as Chet signed In an organization which feain the Swedish Elite League at age 22. tured the likes of Patrick Roy, On the other hand, the younger David Aebischer, and Jose Theodore Pickard had spent the last two between the pipes, Calvin has huge

pads to fill down the road. Though it’s too early to predict his fate with Colorado, the franchise’s emphasis on youth is an indicator that their young core will play an integral role sooner rather than later.

Avalanche fans may have had a glimpse of Calvin in his first two NHL games. Yet, what’s more significant is they’ve had a glimpse of what’s in store for the future. Calvin Pickard may not be a household hockey name, but the player underneath number 31 on the back of a Colorado Avalanche sweater is only beginning his professional journey after an arduous climb to the NHL. The ascent, which consisted of three years in the AHL, four years of junior hockey, a near trip to the World Juniors, and good deal of time following his brother, has finally ended in the ultimate destination.

The young Winnipegger who chose the goaltending position in his early playing days is now living out his hockey dreams, and hasn’t looked back.

When asked what he’s taken away from his NHL experience thus far, Pickard was very direct.

“Every shot matters. There’s so many good players, obviously, at this level. It’s the best level in the world,” said Calvin.

“If you give a guy an inch, he’s gonna make you pay, and you can’t let your guard down for one split second because that puck’s gonna be behind you.”

Photo by Andy Che