18 July 2012

THE UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA STUDENTS’ NEWSPAPER

Frank Ocean rocks the boat

page 15

n e ws

co m m e n t

s c i e n c e & t e c h n o lo g y

a rts & c u lt u r e

s p o rts

Stop Harper?

Canada Day!

Bird is the word

Folk rewind

Pros vs. cons

Protestors gather on Canada Day to mourn country

page 3

Why this country is so beloved by its citizens page 10

Our resident biologist with the latest from the field page 13

An eventful year for the annual summer attraction page 16

Vo l 9 9 ½ · N o 2 · J u ly 1 8 , 2 0 1 2 · w w w.t h e m a n i to b a n .co m

The good and the bad of our wait for a new stadium

page 19

2

Index

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

News 4

National study opens centre in Winnipeg's Deer Lodge

5

Summer Manitoban style

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cover image

“Steam Punk Bicycle at Folk Fest 2012”

by David Van Den Bossche

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Arts & Culture

| pgs 14–16

March 4 Justice stops in Winnipeg

UMSU

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Science & Tech

14

Green . . .

Grass . . . Dot . . .

15

173 Shows

Diversions Editorial

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Please direct all other inquiries to editor@themanitoban.com.

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10

Celebrating Canada

12

Why I believe women deserve better

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| pa g e s 1 8 – 2 0

O, Manitoba!

Toban Talkback

Q:

Brent Adam

John McNeal

Darcey Dewit

Daniel Jabungan

“I am economically for it but environmentally opposed to it.”

“I am opposed to it. I think it's horrible for the environment.”

“I'm in favour of it as long as it's done in an environmentally safe way.”

“I'm not sure, I haven't heard much about it.”

Are you in favour of or opposed to Harper's proposed expansion of tar sand oil extraction?

Jill Patterson, staff

archi te c ture

compu ter s cience

p os t bac e duc ation

microbiolog y

Senior News Editor: Rachel Wood News Editor: Jill Patterson Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

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News

A funeral for Canada on Canada Day Protestors mourn for the loss of their country Jill Patterson, staff

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raditionally July 1 in Canada is a day for all Canadians to celebrate the birth of their country and all it has given its citizens. Canadian celebrations typically include festivals celebrating Canada’s culture, fireworks displays, clothing and costumes adorned with Canadian colours and images, and a united singing of our national anthem.

This year not all Canadians joined in the Canadian festivities and celebratory mood. Throughout Canada protestors gathered and demonstrated in marches that included theatrical props, posters, and T-shirts to illustrate their opposition to the Prime Minister, Stephen Harper.

val booths on Osborne Street, which sold Stop Harper T-shirts, as well as helped to spread the word about their concerns and to engage with the public to discover people’s thoughts and feelings on Stephen Harper.

At about 3:30 p.m. the group hosted a mock funeral procession, which featured a casket being pulled on a wheels, stocked full with citizens’ written messages of their thoughts and feelings on what is happening in Canada today. The funeral procesphoto by paul s. graham sion proceeded to The Forks where, later in the evening, the protestors The nationwide protest, dubbed joined in on a mock vigil for Canada. the National Stop Harper Day, Protestors joined in on singing “This featured protests in many different Land is your Land,” and were encourcities throughout Canada, includ- aged to speak their mind about how ing Regina, Vancouver, Victoria, Canadian democracy has been underMedicine Hat, Nelson, Edmonton, mined by Stephen Harper, culminatMontreal, Ottawa, Calgary, Grand ing in the destruction of Canada.

Forks (BC), Lethbridge, and Accompanying the Osborne demWinnipeg. onstrations and the vigil at The Forks, The Winnipeg branch of the there was also a display of activist National Stop Harper Day took artwork which was illustrating and place on Osborne Street during the portraying the same message as the Osborne Canada Day Street Festival. protestors at Osborne Street. This artPeople gathered at the Bell Tower work was displayed at the St. Norbert at approx. 1:30 p.m. to share their Arts Centre as a part of the National thoughts and ideas on the state of Stop Harper Day event. the country and its people. There was The protestors and groups involved also a booth set up among other festi- in the National Stop Harper event

felt that Canada Day would be the most appropriate time to mourn for the death of their beloved country and to show their dissatisfaction and anger towards Harper for what he has done to Canadian democracy. Instead of fireworks they held a vigil, instead of red and white colours they opted for black, to illustrate their sadness and outrage.

The main issue of concern for the protestors is what they have called the death of Canadian democracy which, according to the Stop Harper movement, can be seen in the complete disregard for the health and safety of its citizens. Some of the specific issues and concerns illustrative of the accused death of Canadian democracy and freedom of its people include: Harper’s alleged fraudulent election which includes the scandal over the robo-call accusation, the controversy over Canada’s purchase of the F-35 fighter jets, various environmental issues including the proposed pipeline construction and the general disregard for the importance of environmental policies, and the implementation of the new crime omnibus crime bill , to name a few.

According to group members of the Winnipeg branch of National

Stop Harper Day, the public reaction to the protest and displays of the group was generally in favour of their thoughts and views. The most negative reactions generally came from older adults who disapproved of the public display of opposition against the Prime Minister. But overall, many of the Stop Harper T-shirts were sold and the group received some appraisal of passers-by.

The group involved in the National Stop Harper Day has taken much inspiration from the Occupy movements, and as such has no centralized authority and leader. There is no one single group or affiliation which was responsible for the Canada Day demonstration. Instead, people from cities all over Canada were encouraged to form and plan their own demonstrations by working together as equals.

Ultimately, the goal of the protestors is to remove Stephen Harper from power. Those behind the Stop Harper movement hope this will restore Canada to its once former glory of proper democracy and dealing with, what they feel are, more important issues instead of seemingly reckless spending time and money on what they feel are irrelevant things, such as a F-35 fighter jet.

Calls growing for inquiry into missing aboriginal women Hundreds gather in downtown Winnipeg demanding government to act Sarah Petz

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undreds of protestors gathered A joint task force of RCMP and She points out the aboriginal Wednesday afternoon, July 11, Winnipeg Police Service, called women are three and a half times near the intersection of Portage Ave. Project Devote, puts the count of more likely to experience violence and Main Street to demand a national unsolved cases involving missing or than non-aboriginal women, and that inquiry into the staggering number murdered women in Manitoba at aboriginal women are fives time more of missing and murdered aboriginal just over 80 as of October 2011. That likely to die as a result of violence women in Canada. number rises to almost 600 nation- than non-aboriginal women.

The issue has received increased ally, according to the Native Women’s “But this isn’t about the statistics, scrutiny since the arrest of Shawn Association of Canada. it’s about the daughters, the sisters, Lamb in June in connection with the David Harper, Grand Chief of the mothers, the grandmothers, deaths of three aboriginal women: Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, the friends that have gone missing,” Lorna Blacksmith, Carolyn Marie called for international pressure on Ashton said.

Sinclair, and Tanya Nepinak. The the issue.

“It is about the broken families demonstration, which included riders “Did New Zealand lose 600 and the broken communities and the on horseback and a traditional aborig- women? Are they missing 600 people that are grieving. And it is made up for approximately 85 per cent inal dance group, is one of several women? Where else in the world are time for us to recognize that we need of admissions to provincial prisons, that have taken place in Winnipeg they missing 600 women?” he asked, action, we need a national inquiry according to Statistics Canada. demanding a federal inquiry. as protestors responded with chants into missing and murdered aboriginal “This is a problem. A lot of the Derek Nepinak, the grand chief of “shame.” women.” women that I see signs for here today of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, “One of the best places to live in the Ashton also pointed out the fed- … we know these women. These told the crowd they should continue world is called Canada, but Canada eral government’s cuts to several women are so … its like they’re forto put pressure on the provincial and is missing 600 women . . . Shame on programs that aided aboriginal gotten by everybody. They’re involved federal governments to establish an you, Canada.” women in Canada, including Sisters in the criminal justice system, they inquiry, and called for the federal Other speakers in attendance in Spirit, the National Aboriginal live in poverty, they’re so marginalgovernment to “not turn a blind eye included Churchill MP and status of Health Organization, the Canadian ized,” she said. to our people any longer.” women critic Niki Ashton, Winnipeg Women’s Health Network, and the “In some ways they feel the oppres“We need an inquiry, we need to city councilor Ross Eadie, and Tracey First Nations Statistical Institute. sion, they feel like they’re garbage, talk about these issues. We need Booth, the executive director of the Booth said the provincial and fed- and then they get thrown away. We to raise the profile nationally and Elizabeth Fry Society, which deals eral governments need to address the need to change this. They need to internationally,” he told the crowd. with women involved in provincial overwhelming percentage of aborigi- start loving themselves.”

“We can’t be silent about it, don’t and federal justice system. nal women in the criminal justice Diana Cowley, a young aboriginal let anyone convince you otherwise.

“Our message is clear. There is system. woman who attended the rally, said This has to happen […] an inquiry is an epidemic of missing and murThough only making up roughly 12 she came to support calls for improva step in the process to lead to a better dered aboriginal women in Canada,” per cent of the Manitoba population ing the quality of life for First Nations tomorrow.”

Ashton told the crowd. in 2008 and 2009, aboriginal women peoples in Canada overall, and said

photo b\\ Sarah Petz

she believes it is important to address the social and economic issues that put aboriginal women in high risk situations.

“We need to take this opportunity and think strategically to get something out of it.

Maybe we need to look at prevention and intervention, those kinds of strategies,” she commented.

The provincial government has said it does not want to proceed with an inquiry, as it does not want to interfere with criminal proceeding against Lamb. Rose Ambrose, minister for the status of women, has said that the government already has a $10 million, five-year strategy to address unsolved cases of missing and murdered aboriginal women, reported the Canadian Press.

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News

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

U of M remembers Bill Norrie Former mayor and chancellor dies at 83 Rachel Wood, staff

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ill Norrie, former mayor and who replaced Norrie after he retired chancellor of the U of M, passed from politics in 1992, described away July 6 at age 83. Norrie died in Norrie as always having Winnipeg’s hospital at approximately 12:30 a.m. best interest at heart. due to respiratory failure.

Norrie served as the Chancellor Norrie was born in St. Boniface of the U of M from 2001­– 2009. He in 1929. He earned his bachelor received his law degree from the U of of arts at United College, which M in 1955 and was also the president eventually became the University of UMSU during that time. Norrie of Winnipeg. was granted the Governor General’s Norrie acted as Winnipeg’s sec- medal and a Rhodes scholarship to ond longest serving mayor and is Oxford. best known for his revitalization of Norrie’s contribution to the U the Forks and the construction of of M is evident through many difPortage Place as a part of the Core ferent projects. Norrie and his wife, Area Initiative. Norrie was greatly Helen, created the Bill and Helen respected by citizens and politicians Norrie Bursary available to students throughout Winnipeg. registered for the Inner City Social According to Sam Katz, Norrie Work Program. The faculty buildwas “a calm, soft-spoken man, dedi- ing was named the William Norrie cated to serving the citizens of this Centre. Additionally, Norrie was a city.” co-chair on the fundraising camFormer mayor Glen Murray paign for the Brodie Centre. The U depicted Norrie’s leadership style of M also appointed the pedestrian through a phrase, “Follow me, I’m path near the Engineering Building right behind you.” This was due to as the William and Helen Norrie his tendency to grant important Walkway. roles to others. Norrie did not crave Following his 13 years in the recognition, but rather allowed oth- mayoral office, Norrie became the ers to lead. conflict-of-interest commissioner Susan Thompson, former mayor for Manitoba. He also acted as an

honorary consul general for Japan.

Norrie was predeceased by two of his sons. Duncan Norrie passed at age 34 during an airline crash in Nepal. Mark Norrie perished in Bali several years later. His wife stated that Norrie never fully overcame the tragedy of losing his sons.

A memorial service was held for Norrie on July 11 at Crescent Fort Rouge United Church. Over 1000 individuals attended the service, including the current Manitoba Premier Greg Sellinger, U of M president David Barnard, U of M chancellor Harvey Secter, and many other political figures.

Secter expressed his condolences of Norrie’s passing when he said, “Winnipeg has lost one of its longest serving and most highly regarded leaders. Bill’s whole life was devoted to service and to making his community a better place. […] As chancellor he shared his time, his wisdom and his passion for learning with the University of Manitoba community.” illustration by silvana moran

National study opens centre in Winnipeg’s Deer Lodge U of M plays key part in aging study Jill Patterson, staff

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nationwide study on the effects of aging has recently begun in Canada. The study, dubbed the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA), will be the largest longitudinal study to take place in Canada to date, including close to 50,000 Canadian participants from coast to coast.

The purpose of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging is to assess and examine the effects of aging on the individuals, aiming to help us to better understand the process and factors that contribute to aging healthy and well.

The CLSA currently has 11 data collection facilities throughout the

country, one of which is located at Winnipeg’s Deer Lodge Centre, located on Portage Avenue. This particular data collection facility will be run with the help of the University of Manitoba’s Centre for Aging. The Deer Lodge Centre is a facility primarily focused on helping adults with rehabilitative services relating to longterm health issues and concerns.

The 50,000 Canadians participating in the study are all between the ages of 45 and 85 years old. In depth information will be obtained from about 30,000 of the participants, mainly through physical examination.

For the remaining 20,000 individuals questionnaires will sent out in order

to get more basic, and less invasive, information. Of the 50,000 participants, about 4,400 will be Manitobans.

From the 4,400 Manitobans included in the study, about 3,000 will be people from Winnipeg specifically, and will be randomly chosen to be included in the study. The remaining 1,400 Manitobans will be surveyed via telephone to obtain the required information.

The University of Manitoba’s Centre on Aging has already proven itself to be integral to the national study. The Centre on Aging has already conducted the first round of data collection for the study, which included 855 people from Manitoba

and Saskatchewan. The Centre for Aging collected this data in November 2010 through telephone interviews.

The study will collect data through a variety of health tests administered to participants every three years. Tests will include: bone density assessment, vision testing, hearing tests, blood tests, and balance testing. In order to gain enough information from these various tests over time, the participants will be tracked for the next 20 years to ensure an appropriate length of time is examined, which will provide more accurate information for the study.

The Canadian Longitudinal Study

on Aging also aims to help us better understand and determine appropriate courses of action in healthcare policies in the future. This study comes at a time of a great demographic shift that has never been seen before.

The generation of the baby boomers is now largely heading into retirement and old age. As this shift occurs we will need to keep in mind the impact that this will have on our healthcare system and policies.

Findings from this study could help provide some key answers for what the future of our healthcare system will look like and what will need to be done to accommodate this large aging generation.

Senior News Editor: Rachel Wood News Editor: Jill Patterson Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

News

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Prestigious scholarship awarded to two U of M students Scholarships will help keep Canada’s top students home Jill Patterson, staff

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wo University of Manitoba graduate students have recently been honoured with the award of the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship.

Amy Scott and Harlyn Silverstein will each be receiving $150,000 over three years towards their area of research.

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is thought to be comparable in prestige and honour to the United Kingdom’s Rhodes Scholarship.

The prestigious nature and the sheer monetary value of the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship helps to recruit new prospective graduate students to Canadian universities, as

well as encourage current Canadian students to remain in Canada and conduct their research at Canadian universities.

Scott is an Anthropology student who is conducting research in order to study how stress affects the skeleton and, more specifically, how stress affects the skeleton’s growth and development. To conduct this research, Scott will use skeletal samples from late to post medieval Denmark. Scott will use these samples to determine whether stress on the skeleton has any correlation to the changes in food availability of that time.

This new method of analysis will enable future researchers to determine stress severity through the exploration of different skeletal indicators. This method of research will allow an occasion to look at and study health issues in the past that has never been possible before. Once this research method has been made operational skeletal samples from Canadian populations may be used as well, which could include, but is not limited to, First Nations Peoples and European settlers from the colonial days.

Silverstein is a chemistry student who will be conducting research on multiferroic materials. These are a

unique type of material that can be polarized both magnetically and electrically at the same time. Also interesting about this material, an electric current can sometimes stimulate a magnetic field, as well as the other way around. The potential for this kind of material could be to help create technological devices, which are smaller, faster, and more energy efficient than what we current have.

In terms of practical examples, multiferroics have the potential to possibly reduce technological identity theft by making encrypted information harder to hack, help in the creation of electronic devices that have the ability to

transform their own wasted heat into energy, and possibly double the bit storage capacity of electronics.

“These recipients are examples of the high calibre of students who choose to study and research at the University of Manitoba. I congratulate them on their success,” said John Doering, vice-provost (graduate education) and dean of graduate studies at the University of Manitoba.

Including Scott and Silverstein, there have now been 11 total Vanier scholars from the University of Manitoba within the last four years.

Cruise night in Brandon

Summer Manitoban Style

Saddle bronc riding competition at the Souris Fair

Souris and Glenwood AG society fair and rodeo

6

News

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

March 4 Justice stops in Winnipeg U of M student chained to the Indian Act protests Aboriginal issues Rachel Wood, staff

photo by cole brieland

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eo Baskatawang made a stop in Winnipeg during his march across Canada, named March 4 Justice. This journey is an effort to protest Aboriginal issues in Canada.

He began his march in Vancouver on April 23. Baskatawang , a U of M graduate student in Native Studies,

states that this journey is a result of the ineffective meeting between Shawn Atleo, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, and Stephen Harper on Jan. 24.

The meeting between Atleo and Harper was described as historic but, according to Baskatawang, merely

resulted in a year of shelving cru- nial history. Baskatawang’s response the history of Aboriginal peoples and cial Aboriginal issues with the plan to the effects of the legislation is the their oppression in Canada. to reconvene in 2013 for a progress March 4 Justice. Baskatawang conA March 4 Justice Facebook page report. tends, “If you want to create change, has been created and follows the jourBaskatawang is demanding that you have to go out there and get ney of Baskatawang and his spiritual the Aboriginal population elect an change yourself […] you can’t sit and cultural mentor, Ashley Bottle.

Aboriginal individual as the head back and expect the change to come Video blogs are posted on the page of the Department of Aboriginal to you.” and display the emotions, challenges Affairs. John Duncan is currently Aboriginal Peoples Television and successes of Baskatawang and the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Network reports Baskatawang as stat- Bottle. The Facebook page has garand Northern Development. ing that the Indian Act aims to “form nered over 800 “likes.”

Baskatawang has chained the our identity and how we are supposed March 4 Justice faced opposition Indian Act to his leg during the to live our lives.” He suggests that the when Baskatawang was arrested in March 4 Justice. He states that this Aboriginal peoples, in consultation Portage la Prairie on June 29. The symbolizes the imprisonment of the with the government, must create arrest was due to a breach of his proAboriginal peoples through legisla- alterations to the Indian Act. bation from a 2007 assault conviction tion. Moreover, he states that the Baskatawang is also gathering in Tennessee. He spent three hours in erosion of the Indian Act during his signatures on a petition in order to custody until his release. Baskatawang march represents the future erosion of manifest his goals. He believes that believes that this arrest was politically the Act as legislation. At the time of this petition will show the govern- motivated as a government attempt his stop in Winnipeg, Baskatawang’s ment the will of Aboriginal people. to delay the march. trek had already eroded 12 copies of He aims to accumulate 100,000 sigBaskatawang hopes to arrive in the Indian Act. natures during his march.

Ottawa by Sept. 3 where he will conThe U of M student argues that Baskatawang states that he has clude his protest with a rally. He can systemic ails such as alcoholism, dis- been stopping at different Aboriginal be followed on Twitter at twitter.com/ ease, and unemployment are all effects communities during his march to march_4_justice and on Facebook at of the Indian Act and Canada’s colo- speak about his journey and about facebook.com/March.4.Justice.

U of M study discovers link between spanking and mental illness Rachel Wood, staff

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he University of Manitoba has maltreatment. made international headlines The study team was lead by Tracie due to a recent study undertaken Afifi, an assistant professor in the U

by U of M professors, which argues of M departments of Community that physical punishment in child Health Sciences, Psychiatry and rearing may lead to mental illness in Family Social Sciences. Additional adulthood.

U of M researchers involved in On July 2, Pediatrics magazine the study included Natalie Mota, published the study, which presents Patricia Dasiewicz and Hitender a relationship between physical dis- Sareen. They also partnered with cipline and several mental illnesses. Harriet MacMillan of McMaster These illnesses include mood disor- University. ders, anxiety disorders, substance The study defined physical disciabuse and dependence, and per- pline as pushing, grabbing, shoving, sonality disorders. The study states slapping, and hitting, and studied that this relationship exists, even in the effect it has on Axis I and II situations independent of physical mental disorders in adulthood. Axis

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I disorders include major depres- as education and income increased. among many individuals in Canada. sion, dysthymia, mania, mood disOverall, the results identified a Commentators on the CBC website orders, anxiety disorders, substance relationship between physical pun- debated the issue after the article was abuse and specific phobia. Axis II ishment and mental illness. The released. One short comment alone, disorders include several personality presence of depression and anxiety “there’s a difference between abused disorders. was 1.4 times greater for adults who and discipline,” produced 16 responses.

According to the research team, had experienced physical punishment The comments were extreme on both there have been past studies inves- in childhood. Alcohol abuse was 1.6 sides of the argument. One commentigating the relationship between times more likely to appear and drug tator argued that “kids today lack dischildhood physical punishment and abuse was 1.5 times greater in adult- cipline period. They are absolute little mental illness; however, this particu- hood after being exposed to physical monsters!” Another claimed, “People lar study expands the scope of Axis discipline. in support of corporal punishment are I and II disorders and is nationally Two to five per cent of Axis I just latent sadists who want to act out representative. disorders and four to seven per cent their sick urges on their kids.”

The researchers collected data of Axis II disorders were linked to According to the authors, the on physical punishment from The physical punishment in childhood. study has several implications. They National Epidemiologic Survey on Moreover, Axis I disorders were hope that healthcare providers for Alcohol and Related Conditions found to decrease by two to five per children will be conscious of this (NESARC). NESARC contains cent in the absence of physical pun- study and remember the link between interview data of a representative sam- ishment. Axis II decreased by four to physical punishment and mental ple of American adults, aged 20 and seven per cent in this absence. illness. They recommend that any older, who are not institutionalized.

Canada and the United States sort of physical punishment should The results were adjusted for gen- are both among nations that have be eradicated from parenting. By der, race, marital status, education, not outlawed corporal punishment doing so, the authors suggest that family dysfunction, parental drug for children. The Criminal Code of the pervasiveness of mental illness in problems or parental hospitalization Canada permits parents to discipline modern society may decrease. They for mental illness. These factors were their children using a reasonable advocate for the use of positive parcontrolled in order to ensure that amount of physical force when the enting techniques in replacement of extreme cases or issues that may have child is between 2 ­­– 12 years of age. physical discipline. affected the parental use of physical Under this law, no instrument may be Afifi argues, “Policies need to discipline did not affect the results. used, and if the head is hit or if a mark be focused on strategies to reduce According to the study, female is produced on the child, the physical physical punishment, which points adults were less likely than males to punishment enters the realm of abuse. to the importance of positive parhave experienced physical punish- This form of discipline is discour- enting approaches. These findings ment in childhood. Additionally, aged by the American Academy of are important in considering policy black individuals were more likely to Pediatrics, yet, 80 per cent of parents and programmatic approaches to proexperience this treatment than white are reported as hitting their children tect children from inappropriate and individuals. Physical punishment as punishment potentially harmful discipline.” appeared more often in childhood The study has created controversy

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Quite a show

Editorial

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Celebrating the unexpected brilliance of the San Diego fireworks misfire

Editorial

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xpectations are a tricky thing.

Garden State Fireworks company, “What I You expect something and it becomes feel bad about is the people of San Diego [ . . . organized, ordered, defined, even routine. ] I felt terrible. But you can’t unring a bell.”

Worse, you expect something and if that Garden State had been commissioned thing in question doesn’t match the level of to carry out the fireworks display, one of your expectations it becomes, by definition, hundreds of shows across the U.S. the firea failure. works company typically gets hired to coorIn one fell swoop our expectations make dinate every year. In Garden State’s storied our lives sadder and more boring. But I history they have provided the pyrotechdon’t want to talk about the pitfalls of the human condition, no, I would like to converse on the positive!

Earlier this month, in San Diego, a gross technical mishap caused a Fourth of July fireworks display to launch about 18-minutes wor t h of f ireworks simultaneously, all at the exact same moment.

The result saw five separate locations all triggered at once causing gigantic, thunderous clouds of dancing bright l ights t hat both delighted and shocked onlookers for about a total of 30 seconds.

Now you can see dozens upon dozens of pictures and video taken from the infamous fireworks display.

There was no shortage of news stories—local, nics for the Statue of Liberty Bicentennial national, and international—reporting on Celebration in 1976 and the 1988 winter the hilarious disaster that was the Fourth of Olympics in Calgary – they are one of the July San Diego fireworks display. Several key oldest American manufacturers of display words were thrown around quite often by fireworks.

According to Santore, Garden State the media in the wake of the fireworks glitch, such as “failure,” “botched,” “bust,” and intends to apologize to the people of San “ruined” but none was more pervasive than Diego by way of a second, free-of-charge, fireworks show that would take place several the all-too-popular: “disappointment.”

Of course, news outlets keen on cram- months in the future. Founder of the Big ming innocuous Twitter posts into their Bay Boom H. P. Purdon echoed this sentistories would also present various snippets ment, vowing to “make it up” to the city in of wisdom such as, “OMG, what the hell? the near future.

“When you have 20,000 fireworks There better be more. Lame.”

In total the show cost approximately US going off in 15 seconds, it’s quite a show,” $400,000, not an unusual figure for San said Purdon. “But it was not the show we Diego’s annual Big Bay Boom celebration planned.”

Indeed, not the show that was planned, – an event known as one of the larger and more complex fireworks displays to take but still quite a show. Arguably a more memorable show than either Garden State place on Independence Day. Said August Santore Sr., co-owner of the or Purdon could have orchestrated – because

it was unexpected.

Left out of this whole experience, as it was presented and framed by the mainstream media, was that this infamous Fourth of July fireworks display in San Diego was, well, undeniably cool. The fact is the negative attention this technical mis-queue received the world over was and is only half of the story.

Watch the videos posted around the Internet and you’ll see and hear people in awe of something; they hoot, they holler, they say “Fuck yeah,” they go “Wooo!”

Not overly articulate but assuredly positive, having just seen something that is truly unique.

The fireworks display was able to find itself a wider audience fairly quickly, too, as the videos posted online reached four million views within the f irst week.

The amount of cumulative views has since continued to skyrocket, having doubled that number with well over 8 million views in the month of July.

And to this I say bravo, Internet; you have successfully allowed an event that was labelled anathema by the mainstream media to rise above the negativity and shine for what it truly is: a unique, unrehearsed, aweinspiring moment.

Sure it was all triggered by pure accident.

But like Purdon says, it was quite a show.

This is a case in which something didn’t fail expectations but, rather, exceed them by defying convention. And make no mistake, hundreds of miniature explosives rocketing into the sky, ricocheting off each other in brilliant colour and overwhelming sound such that it creates a lasting image the likes of which the world had never seen before – that is a damn cool way to defy convention. illustration by James Culleton

Comment Editor: Spencer Fernando Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

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What’s in your sandwich?

Comment

The link between colorectal cancer and processed meat Stephanie Haderer

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hat is the first thing that comes like to know what they are in for.

Smoking, curing, and salting are all than meaty sandwiches. For instance, to mind when you think about The truth is simple and clear. The just as risky as added preservatives. the Canadian Cancer Society website a healthy lunch? If it is a sandwich Canadian Cancer Society openly According to the Canadian Cancer suggests veggie wraps with hummus then I am about to states that eating Society, processed meat contains instead of cold cuts. This change in rock your world. processed meat cancer-causing substances, which are diet can prevent up to 70 per cent of As it turns out increases your risk formed during the preservation of colorectal cancers, which means it is The Canadian the stuff between of colorectal can- the meat or present in the added pre- time to ditch the bologna. It is hard your buns is known cer. It is no secret, servatives. These substances, which to spell and even harder on your cells, Cancer Society to increase your risk as you can find this lead to the development of colorectal so it should be easy to cut out of your openly states of colorectal cancer. fun lunchtime fact cancer, can harm cells in your body. diet.

I am talking about under the preven- That is a tough pill to swallow when Seeing as there are great risks that eating sandwich meat; a tion tab on the you’ve been fed the idea of “healthy associated with the consumption of processed standard lunchtime Canadian Cancer sandwiches” your whole life. processed meat, I could not be hapingredient that Society website.

Upon further research, I found pier that I ended up on the Canadian meat increases everyone should I have heard that colorectal and colon cancers are Cancer Society website when I did. your risk of avoid. I thought about processed far less common in developing coun- There is, however, one preventative about heading to meat containing tries, and that the geographical dif- tip that I cannot seem to wrap my colorectal my local grocery harmful ingredients, ference is often credited to differences head around. The website suggests store and picketbut when I read the in diet, or the lack of processed meats that as a preventative measure you cancer. ing in front of the warning on such a consumed by people in those coun- should save processed meat for special deli counter, but public site with my tries. In other words, most research occasions. instead I decided to own eyes I was still concludes that processed meat and After reading a statement like that spread the word in a more productive shocked. The preservatives in these colorectal cancer go hand in hand, you could imagine my shock and dismanner. I figured that with premade processed meats are a concern, but like two besties. may when on the same website, the sandwiches available across campus, the preservation processes themselves The good news is that there are Canadian Cancer Society, suggests the students lining up for them might can be dangerous and harmful as well. plenty of things to eat for lunch other that people quit smoking all together.

Surely it is not harmful to have one little ciggy on those special occasions when I indulge in a cancer inducing wiener?

If the Canadian Cancer Society states that processed meat increases your risk of colorectal cancer, it is absurd that they would suggest that you eat it at all. The smoking and tobacco section of the website reads, “Quit now and reduce your risk of cancer” so I say the same for processed meat. You certainly will not catch me eating it – not even during October Fest. I would rather bite into some nutrient rich veggies than play Russian roulette with a smoked turkey loaf any day.

Since we live in a world where sandwiches should be feared—in the spirit of large intestinal health— let’s swear off processed meat to keep our bodies happy and our risks low. Happy and healthy lunching everyone.

The UN Human Rights Council Why it’s broken and corrupt Bruce Haddad

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n May, Conservative backbencher onment by the military are rampant.

Larry Miller stated that he thought Despite this, however, Syria is curit was time for Canada to rethink its rently a candidate for a seat on the involvement with the UN. This is an Human Rights Council in 2014 and excellent statement, which should likely to win. Syria has long been one lead to a debate in this country about of the worst human rights violators Canada’s involvement in the UN. in the world, but this has not kept it, While quitting the UN altogether is nor many other countries amongst a non-starter, the UN is made up of the worst human rights abusers on many different bodies, some of which the planet, from seeking and gainare useful and some ing a seat on the of which are corrupt UN Human Rights We can’t to the point of being Council. completely counThe reason for have the terproductive. The this is and the prifoxes UN Human Rights mary problem of the Council (UNHRC) UNHRC is that the guarding the is an example of the rotating membership hen house. latter. is done by regional Since March 2011, elections. However, it the Assad regime in has become habit for Syria has been bruregions to only field as tally repressing an uprising that began many states as there are spots on the as a peaceful protest. It is estimated council. This means that Syria will that 14,000 people have lost their be one of four countries running for lives in the past year and reports of exactly four spots allotted to Asia. torture, rape, and unlawful impris- This system allows chronic human

rights abusers to shield themselves Have your armed forces or police Russia: Journalists regularly from resolutions and sanctions of the responded to a protest by firing arrested and murdered. 365 journalists UNHRC by assuring that chronic machine guns into the crowds in the killed or missing from 1993-2009. human rights abusing countries make last five years?

Cuba: Elected in 2009. The last up part of the UNHRC in a gentlePeople may think that this is a two journalists who were in jail were men’s agreement of ‘don’t notice my laughably low bar for election to the finally deported to Spain in 2011. crimes and I won’t notice yours’.

UNHRC, but it would be a huge Respect for human rights has What should Canada do? This improvement over the status quo. to start at home. Imagine having a country should immediately stop Currently, there are several mem- country where the punishment for funding the UNHRC and stop bers of the UNHRC answering yes being gay is death, elected as a memseeking membership until reforms to these questions. ber of something called the United are made. What reforms? I would Djibouti: Journalists currently in Nations Human Rights Council. propose three very simple questions jail for criticizing the government. We can’t have the foxes guarding be asked of countries seeking mem- All journalism conducted through a the hen house. Setting a minimum bership on the UNHRC, answering company controlled by the state. domestic human rights standard for any one of them with a ‘yes’ would China: Journalists currently in jail member countries would help bestow automatically make that country for criticizing the government. functionality and credibility to the ineligible for membership or autoKuwait: Sex between two con- UNHRC. Canada should be aggresmatically suspend membership if the senting adult males punishable by sive in pushing for reforms and if the answer became ‘yes’ after elections. seven years imprisonment. human rights abusers of the world My proposed questions would be: Saudi Arabia: Maximum penalty wish to keep the UNHRC a corrupt Do journalists in your country face for sex between two consenting adult institution meant to shield themselves death or imprisonment for criticizing males is death. from scrutiny, at the very least, they the government or its policies?

Libya: Elected in 2010, did not can do so without our money.

Is homosexuality in your country lose its seat even when the governa crime punishable by imprisonment ment put down peaceful protests with or death? machine guns.

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Comment

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

Canada The greatest nation on earth Spencer Fernando, staff

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n the Canada Day long weekend, and generosity toward those in need.

Canadians gathered with their families It is because of the efforts and sacrifices of and friends to celebrate our country. This was previous generations, that we have inherited not only a celebration of our past, but also so much. In two world wars, through a great a celebration of our future. There has never depression, and through countless chalbeen a better time to be Canadian. lenges and obstacles, previous generations of Canada is a nation like no other. We are Canadians built the Canada we know today, the true land of opportunity, a place where a nation that is a beacon for the entire world. anything is possible.

Here, we are free to achieve our goals and In Canada, no matter where you come dreams, and amazing opportunities await from, no matter your background or your us if we reach out and seize them. history; you have the chance to reach your The peace and freedom we enjoy does not highest potential. This is rare in our world, come without a price. and it is why Canada is special.

This price is paid in the sacrifices of This truth is evident in the fact that Canadian men and women in uniform, Canada welcomes more peoand in the grief of the family ple to our shores than almost members they leave behind.

There has any other nation on earth.

It is a price also paid in subtle Newcomers from around the ways, whether it is the knot never been world arrive in Canada with of worry in the stomach of a sense of hope and optimism, someone who’s loved one is a better ready to make the most of the stationed in a distant land, time to be opportunity our great nation or the sadness felt by a child affords them. In doing so, who grows up without their Canadian. they add to the fabric of our mother or father. Our solsociety and enrich our culture. diers willingly put themselves Right here on our campus we through danger, and endure welcome students from all corners of the great distances from their families so that earth, students drawn to Canada by our we may live in safety close to our loved ones. abundant opportunity.

As we celebrate the blessings of our country, Beyond financial opportunity, people are it is essential that we remember those who drawn to Canada because we are a nation make it possible. that believes in freedom. Our respect for As Canadians, we tend to be humble economic freedom, freedom of religion, and about our success, and we are reluctant to freedom of speech has helped us develop boast or brag. But we have much to be proud a society unlike any other. We are diverse of. We are part of an amazing country, a without being divided. We respect individu- growing country of limitless potential and als yet understand community. We advance opportunity. Working together to fulfill our without abandoning our traditions and les- shared potential and build upon our opporsons of the past, as evidenced by our endur- tunity unites us and brings us together. ing commitment to the unifying institution This vast, beautiful, prosperous nation of the Monarchy. is our shared inheritance. If we make the We are also a compassionate nation; the most of this moment in history, we will look efforts of our troops in Haiti after the 2010 back on this time knowing we built on the earthquake struck, and the generosity and opportunity left to us by past generations. kindness of spirit of countless individual We will look back with confidence knowing Canadians expressed every single day in that Canada will always be what it is today: moments both large and small is something the greatest nation on earth. that is not to be forgotten. For these reasons, and many others, our nation is known Spencer Fernando is the comthroughout the world for our compassion ment editor for the Manitoban.

We do multiculturalism well!

Our patriotism transcends cultures Chris Hearn

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ow, I’m not a huge nationalist. I’m accepted by Canada and given a place to not a fan of the waving flag and blind live in relative peace and stability, just as my patriotism. I mean, Canada is a darn good Ukrainian ancestors were. And, for the most country, I must say, but at the same time, we part, I am of the opinion that people who are not perfect and too often that gets lost come to Canada do adapt to a “Canadian” in a haze of red and white flags and national way of living, strive to learn the language anthem singing. In order to move forward (s), have a desire to be part of the commuand continue improving, it isn’t useful to just nity, and want to take advantage of all that say, “We are the best!” and leave it at that.

Canada has to offer.

But, by the same token, Canada does do This is nothing new. a lot of things right. One of those things is People have been coming here for genmulticulturalism. Canada is often described erations now, whether it be Italians, Irish, as a mosaic while our neighbours to the south British, Ukrainians, Chinese, French, are described as a meltSri Lankan, Indian, ing pot. I’m okay with the Somalian, Filipino, or Canada has mosaic idea. I’m supportJamaican, we have all ive of the idea of people come to Canada essenbecome a refuge coming to Canada from tially for the same reafor people from different countries and sons and the same goals. maintaining their culture Everyone wants a better around the world and keeping true to their life. roots, while still being Unfortunately, a case fleeing from Canadian. I am of the such as Muhammad war, injustice, belief that to “assimilate” Shafia, who killed his as it were does not mean female children out of poverty, political to toss out your past. “honour”, will grab the persecution, Now, the first time front page and make I was in Winnipeg for some Canadians scream and instability.

Canada Day, my family out that multiculturaland I headed down to ism doesn’t work. Well, Assiniboine Park for the honour killings really afternoon. As we wanaren’t happening on a dered around, flagless, just enjoying the day, large scale in Canada. They are few and far I was struck by how many “new” Canadians between and that is part of why this case there were there, and how patriotic they were. became so well known. But, the reality is, There were flags, Canada T-shirts, hats, most people who come to Canada are not stickers, temporary tattoos, the works, and coming here to cause harm. They are coming they were mostly on people who were clearly to be part of the mosaic. They are coming to first or second generation Canadians. Wow. be part of Canada.

To me, that’s impressive.

So, yes, there is something that we can Canada has become a refuge for people look at and pat ourselves on our collective from around the world fleeing from war, backs over. We are a multicultural country, injustice, poverty, political persecution, and and as far as I am concerned, it really does instability. I truly believe that the vast major- work for us, and has been working for us for ity of people are very grateful to have been a long time.

Comment Editor: Spencer Fernando Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Comment

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We need to get more involved in politics Politics is the process that will affect your future Michael DeLuca

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s this is the first article I have written for the Manitoban, I feel as though I should begin by telling the audience—you, the kind readers of this paper—a little bit about myself.

My name is Michael DeLuca; I’m 22 and have recently completed a degree in Political Science at the University of Manitoba. I was raised by my parents, a math and science teacher in the Manitoba Education System, and have a younger sister who is much more artistically inclined then myself and still shows me up every time I try to outdraw her, only to end with a grouping of stick figures. Overall, I have lived a fortunate life, surrounded by a loving family and supportive group of friends that have always been by my side, through the good times and the bad.

There is another little tidbit of information I would like to share with the reader; I am a conservative.

Yes, you heard me right, a conservative. For the past few years, I have been involved in many various facets of conservative politics, a great accompaniment to the education I received while completing my undergraduate studies.

Based on this information about myself and my involvement in politics, I would like my first article to

stress two key things that I feel are at the crux of most educational based arguments I make when I encounter different people.

First, young people need to get more involved in politics. If you look at the voter demographics, you will see that the age group of 18-24 has the lowest voter turnout across the country. This is evidence that the next generation of Canadian leaders is not exercising their democratic right to

enjoy it!

The second point is this: Don’t be afraid to try conservative politics!

Guess what, despite what certain people might tell you, there is great potential in conservatism and everything it has to offer.

As a young person, I thought of myself as a Liberal, in awe of what I felt where the many achievements of my then role model, Pierre Elliott Trudeau. In my first term at the University of Manitoba, I even attempted to get involved with the Don’t be afraid to try Young Liberals. When I inquired, I felt like I was given the cold shoulder, Conservative Politics! in what seemed to me to be a typical condescending Liberal attitude of entitlement. I decided at this point be heard, to make a difference in the to educate myself a bit, delving into very system they take for granted. Yes, the minds of political philosophers on the surface, politics can at times be from the past. After reading Adam drab, even for a political junkie like Smith’s Wealth of Nations and Ayn myself. However, it is imperative that Rand’s Atlas Shrugged, I realized today’s youth make a more concerted that my political beliefs stood more effort to be heard and involve them- in line with conservative politics. I selves in the very process that affects was welcomed with open arms by their futures. Even if one chooses to the University of Manitoba Campus only involve themselves by going out Conservatives and The Progressive and casting a ballot, this is still a step Conservative Youth and the rest is in the right direction and pays divi- history. dends for the stability and efficiency Now I’m here, at the beginning of of the political system. Get involved what I feel is an excellent time to be because who knows, you just might involved not only in politics, but also

in conservative politics. The CPC recently won a majority Government and I’m confident that the PC Party is about to rebound stronger than ever with a charismatic new leader.

So I challenge you, the reader, to get involved with politics, even if it only means going out and voting in the next election. And, for those of you

who are considering involving yourself in conservative politics but were waiting for that extra little push, I urge you to take that leap over the political center to the right side. I promise, we don’t bite! illustration by silvana moran

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Comment

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

Why I believe women deserve better

A much needed restoration Responding to criticism of Assiniboine Park David Scammell

Opinion: the importance of the New Abortion Caravan Agnus-Mariae Lucas

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n last month’s issue of the Abortions can result in physical Manitoban, a news article dis- complications for women, but what cussed the Womyn’s Centre protest are more detrimental and harder of the New Abortion Caravan. I am to heal are the psychological conwriting this article to explain why I sequences. I feel that women in a feel the Caravan is important. crisis pregnancy must be offered The images on the trucks are compassionate, life affirming bloody, disturbing, and seemingly options, not options that end life. unreal. An initial reaction to see- No words are adequate to describe ing these images might be surprise, the injury done to the one whose remorse, anger, or the pouring of life is taken away; this is why the chocolate milk on people who photographs are needed. I think hold these signs, as happened that women deserve better, as do just recently to pro-life activists their unborn children. in Thunder Bay. Whatever would It might seem disrespectful or induce such responses? extreme to use these images of chilPerhaps it is the reality of it all; dren’s corpses to send a message, but there is no denying the images. I it is through these signs, postcards, think that pouring chocolate milk and trucks that the future brothers on a pro-life and sisters of activist is an these children understandare saved. The I think that a more able reaction lives of their fruitful course for someone mothers would whose wrongbe improved of action would doing has instead of be to attempt to been exposed scarred, for in front of whether or not help others avoid them. I think they decide to making what I see it is a natukeep and raise ral human the child, they as a tragic mistake. response to can have peace feel bad about knowing that ending a life. they chose life, So what can be done about it? not death, as shown in those devInstead of shooting the messenger, astating photographs. why not address what seems to me In my opinion, these images to be the cause of the bad feelings reveal to those who have survived – the abortion that killed this per- that there is a need to defend the son’s child? Healing resources such rights of those who are most vulas the Silent No More Awareness nerable, those who cannot speak for Campaign and Rachel’s Vineyard themselves and have been denied are available to help women under- the right to live. Women in crisis stand the reasons for the feelings pregnancies are vulnerable as well; of guilt they may feel, and show however, violent measures should them how they can address them. not be taken to help vulnerable peoI think that a more fruitful course ple. I do not think that we should of action would be to resolve to be promoting choices that can have make better choices in the future the physical and psychological conas well as attempt to help others sequences of abortion. Women avoid making what I see as a tragic deserve the best, and abortion is mistake. not the best the world has to offer.

I feel that women deserve better than abortion, despite what Agnus Mariae Lucas is a first year some abortion advisors may say. student in the Faculty of Education

photo by beibei lu

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recently read an article in the to poor coordination and inefficient for investment.

Winnipeg Free Press by colum- practices when regular duties and Sinclair makes the claim that the nist Gordon Sinclair that I feel maintenance were done around the eight executives making $133,000 expressed a decidedly cynical atti- park. each seems like a lot of money. This tude towards the newly established The isolation of Assiniboine is true, until you compare what they Assiniboine Park Conservancy. I Park also led to low supervision and are paid to what they have raised, in feel Sinclair is uninformed about eventually became a hiding place terms of revenue. Under the curwhat is happening at Assiniboine for City of Winnipeg crews while rent Imagine a Place Campaign Park and should take an intelli- at work. I have on many occasions the Assiniboine Park Conservancy gent look at all the facts. First, the travelled through the park and seen has raised $133 million out of the Assiniboine Park Conservancy City of Winnipeg trucks sitting idle intended goal of two hundred began in 2006 when the City of with a full crew of people doing million. That is very substantial Winnipeg felt that the park was nothing for extended periods of amount, something that couldn’t not being maintained properly time, clearly longer than a normal be accomplished without the hard break. working executives and staff of the a nd needed In my opin- Assiniboine Park Conservancy. investment from The restoration ion, this isolaThe final statement Sinclair outside donors tion t u rned made is that the grass is too long to bring the of Assiniboine Assiniboine and the weeds are growing through park the world Park into a near the wood chips. Many parts of renowned staPark is certainly retirement home Assiniboine Park have been in distus it deserves. needed and for city workers repair long before the Assiniboine Since then many who were near- Park Conservancy took over, that changes been thanks to the ing the end of is, the wood chips are sun bleached made to improve Assiniboine Park their ca reer and sometimes fully overgrown Assiniboine with the City of with weeds. It is foolish to think park such as the Conservancy this Winnipeg. City that after less than a year all the Qualico Centre, needed change of Winnipeg shrub beds in Assiniboine Park the International workers would would be fixed and as pristine as Pol a r Bear is happening request a transfer they should be. As far as the long Conservation to Assiniboine grass goes I think the Assiniboine Cent re a nd Park where the Park Conservancy is attempting to the plans for a new Conservatory showcasing oversight was low and the work do three things: leave naturalized areas to create a prairie feel, give many plants that grow in different was considered easy.

The neglect Assiniboine Park wildlife habitat, and also act as a climates.

I think the Assiniboine Park has seen in the past brought a need natural filter to pollutants.

The restoration of Assiniboine Conservancy has done a great job for new investment and hence the with Assiniboine Park consider- creation of the Assiniboine Park Park is certainly needed and ing the past neglect from City of Conservancy, which is dedicated thanks to the Assiniboine Park Winnipeg budgets and previous to the preservation of the park. Conservancy this needed change is park employees. One such instance With any new organization there happening. It is time to give up the that I feel brought neglect was the needs to be people at the top to give old idea of how to run the park and way in which various city depart- direction, something the City of focus on changing to what works ments all shared jurisdictions over Winnipeg did not have, and as well and getting rid of what doesn’t. different parts of the park. This as people to go out and raise the shared responsibility inevitably led money that Assiniboine Park needs

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Science & Technology Editor: Bryce Hoye Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Science & technology

Bryce Hoye, Staff

My ‘birder’ origin story going on in the southwestern-most My name is Bryce Hoye, and I reaches of the Northwest Territories. am a “birder.” We come in a variety Another field technician position of morphs, us birders: some are cut transplanted me to an island off the from the backyard bird-watching coast of Nova Scotia, living amidst the cloth; other, more ambitious and ceaseless raucous of over 1,200 coloserious lifelong birders—adorned in nial nesting Arctic, Common, and the Tilley hats, Birkenstocks, binocu- Roseate terns. This position entailed lars, and bird books characteristic of performing predator deterrence (i.e. the birding community—plan entire scaring away crows, gulls and birds of vacations in accordance with, say, the prey with pyrotechnics) and monitorprospect of catching a significant ing the tern chicks’ feeding and mormigration event, perhaps venturing to tality rates. And yet another summer areas known to present rare and fleet- occupied by breeding bird surveys ing glances at endangered species. and ecological vegetation sampling I classify myself somewhere along in northeastern Alberta, employed by the lines of a “wandering bird biolo- the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring gist” on this spectrum, as a great deal Institute. of time over the past six years of my life has been consumed by ornitho- Perks of bird-work logical field work across Canada.

Time and again this unorthodox I wasn’t always bird-brained. Birds career path has come with a suite of were once just the pleasant and non- fringe benefits: for instance, facilitatintrusive background noise of my ing the wanderlust of my early 20s. adolescent years. Summers were They’ve provided me with a license to spent at the cabin in northwestern explore and immerse myself within Ontario, being capriciously led about the beautiful remote boreal forests the surrounding woods by a budding, and bogs, cat-tail ridden wetlands, though unfocused, spirit of natural and salty Atlantic coastal areas that inquiry. comprise but a part of Canada’s excesThe creatures of the boreal forest sively rich natural landscapes. beguiled me in those frenetic, formaThe adventure has given me a tive years, and continue to do so. A way to build on and file impressions series of contract positions to follow of nature in the style of some of my working with the Canadian Wildlife naturalist heroes — like the gaunt Service (CWS), as well as other agen- wanderer, nature-activist and creator cies, wrought an interest in the avian of the Sierra Club, John Muir. component of wildlife and conservaAccording to the Sierra Club, he tion biology, specifically. once described himself as a “poeticoThe summer between my first and trampo-geologist-botanist and ornisecond year of university, I managed thologist-naturalist etc. etc. !!!!” This to land a seasonal position with the is really just to say he was a glamorizer local Winnipeg branch of the CWS of nature, and kept some of the most conducting surveys for the elu- brilliant anecdotal descriptions of sive marsh-bird species, the Least nature in his field diaries. Of course, Bittern. As well as banding, trapping, it is self-flattery of a heinous degree and swabbing the cloacae (or hind to make even an oblique comparison quarters) of hundreds of waterfowl between myself and a man who piofor avian influenza in the month of neered wildlife preservation and natuAugust, most of that summer con- ral heritage appreciation in the U.S.A. sisted of me and a species–at-risk “His writings contributed greatly to wildlife biologist (def: a biologist the creation of Yosemite, Sequoia, focused on studying wildlife species Mount Rainier, Petrified Forest, and threatened or otherwise “at-risk” of Grand Canyon National Park,” states becoming endangered) living out of the Sierra Club’s webpage. the back of a truck, scything across Privileged as I’ve been to be where Manitoba’s prairies and wetlands in I’ve been, these birdie-experiences search of Least Bittern populations. have simultaneously conferred unto Six years hence and all but one me a deep consternation at what of my past six summers have been Richard Louv refers to as “nature devoted to chasing after eccentric deficit disorder” in the general pubbiological field research positions lic. And, oh, how epidemic the scale! studying birds across Canada. And But that is a lamentation for another that chase sustains me as much as any time. interest in the birds themselves.

Notes from the western boreal I’ve had the privilege to spend a It has been a dream of mine, summer on a crew monitoring how mounting for some time now, to the Ovenbird, a ubiquitous species of record and share some of my own wood warbler, is responding to the field journals. For now, I will leave seismic and pipeline development you with the first of several entries

illustration by lauren Mcphaden

from my field journals this summer, marks the end of our official training cies of warblers of Alberta during our logged on May 29 from Lakeland period, and we are now setting off to training period. True to her word, Provincial Park, Alberta. our respective corners of northern splotches and streaks of brilliant June 29, 2012: Alberta for the next two months of yellows, oranges and greens flitting The glassy, ascending spiral song boreal breeding bird surveys, also around, projecting songs from atop of a Swainson’s thrush; the quarrel- known as “point-counts.” the conifers of our campsite. The ling, buzzing trills of two chipping Point-counting consists of going Cape May and Bay-breasted warsparrows; and the abrasive honk of a to various predetermined habitats blers sang the thin, high-pitched redneck grebe carry across the gentle (usually by some principal investiga- “seet seet seet” and “se-seew, se-seew, sesurface of Touchwood lake. Those tor of a stud), at the crack of dawn seew” phrases that make them next-to tentative first revs of the dawn chorus (sometime between 4 and 5 a.m.), and indistinguishable from each other by spilled in through the vestibule of my identifying what species of birds are song alone. tent without invitation at 3 a.m. this present through their signature songs.

The highlight by far was hearing morning, and to my delight, I knew A good analogy is to think of birds’ the distinctive “tseekut tseekut tseekut immediately who they were coming songs as their fingerprint; each song tseee” song and seeing the flamethrowfrom. unique to a species; each species’ song er-orange breast, throat, nape, lores, Eight others and myself have with it’s own dialects variable depen- and supralorals of the Blackburnian been preparing for this day for over dent on geographical locations.

Warblers. It took six, exhausting days a month now, listening to hour after We arrived to Touchwood Lake of literally living beneath a breeding hour of recorded birdsong from Jim with promises from our principle pair to finally catch a glimpse. and Barb Beck, Jim Butler, John investigator of seeing some of the Wow. I am such a bird nerd.

Neville, and Monty Bringham. Today rarest, most vibrantly coloured spe-

Arts & Culture Editor: Kara Passey Contact: artsculture@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Arts & Culture

14

“Green… Grass… Dot…” Ewa Tarsia’s garden installation transforms WAG’s interior and exterior spaces Michelle Saromo

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wa Tarsia is bringing a taste of the outdoors into the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Throughout the summer, the local artist is showcasing her latest exhibit, “Green... Grass... Dot...,” which spans both the interior and exterior spaces of the WAG. The exhibit is a further expansion into the “dot” theme, which has been prominent in her recent works. The theme initially started with her 2007 exhibit, “Untitled Dot,” a series of prints showcased at the Martha Street Studio. From there, she decided to expand on her vision.

“I continued with more and more dots and now I’m almost obsessed with the dots, I see dots almost everywhere,” Tarsia laughs.

Known primarily for her printmak- est project and says that to her, “they of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra own vision. ing and paintings, her latest project is a are very indispensable. I like working Garden Magic & Music tour – and is When asked if she is worried huge artistic transgression. It is a col- with them.” far from traditional. about some of the living pieces wiltlaboration with 5468976 Architecture “Green... Grass... Dot...” combines Like Tarsia’s garden at home, she ing prematurely before the exhibit’s Inc., with whom she has worked with two of Tarsia’s greatest passions – art describes the exhibit as being uncon- end, Tarsia’s dedication to her work is in the past. In the winter of 2010, they and the environment. According ventional, yet still cohesive. She says, subtly revealed as she casually replies, installed “Sunspot”, a large, structured, to the WAG, the exhibit “connects “It’s more like a sculpture.” The exhibit “Whatever will be will be. It’s a process orange sphere hanging from the Forks’ her installations and paintings like consists of a combination of both of doing things and then if I have to Historic Rail Bridge. It served as part a green line connecting the dots.” organic as well as synthetic materials. replace something or if it’s damaged by of the “Warming Huts” exhibit along Tarsia’s works are known for their Recycled synthetic trees are lined up the extreme weather, well I’m ready to the river trail as an interpretation of the modern, unconventional take on along the gallery’s staircase; living ter- work all summer.” sun, the largest heat source. “Sunspot” landscape and nature. She dedicates rariums hang on the rooftop.

It seems that Tarsia is fully set to inspired Tarsia to keep moving for- all her pieces to the environment and Tarsia’s passion for this project— take on two roles for the summer – ward with the “dot” theme. is inspired not just by plant life, but her most complex installment yet—is both as artist and as gardener.

“That was the first big dot and it by all living things. She says that this evident in her voice as she excitedly became so clear to me to continue latest exhibit definitely takes in ele- says, “You have to see it!” She wants “Green... Grass... Dot...” will be this.” Tarsia was excited to work with ments from her own garden, which has visitors of her exhibit to build their own showcased at the Winnipeg Art 5468976 Architecture again on her lat- been featured numerous times as part interpretation of it and to build their Gallery from July 15 to Sept. 15.

Prairies, Pens, and Poets Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Manitoba Writers’ Guild David Krause

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rom Willa Cather to Guy Maddin, July 16 to Aug. 24 (8:30 a.m. to the Great Plains provides inspira- 4:30 p.m.), Prairies, Pens and Poets: tion, madness and solace for artists. Celebrating Manitoba Writers on the For decades the Manitoba Writers’ 30th Anniversary of the Manitoba Guild has given support to them.

Writers’ Guild exhibits the works of The University of Manitoba Manitoban writers. Works presented Archives & Special Collections is include offerings from French author honoring the Manitoba Writers’ Gabrielle Roy, poet David Cooley, Guild’s 30th anniversary. From journalist and suffragette E. Cora

Hind, and children’s author Sheldon Oberman. Alanna MacIsaac, Jarad Buckwold, and Jan Horner helped put together the event as the exhibit organizers.

Finding an audience can be tough for an author—especially an unknown one—so one of the goals of the exhibit is to showcase Manitoban

writers from the past and present that the organizers feel worthy of attention.

Shelley Sweeney, head archivist, elaborates, “People like E. Cora Hind, while famous in their own day, are not known by young people today.

Francis Marion Beynon herself has been dubbed ‘the forgotten suffragist.’

For others like Jewish writer Sheldon

Oberman, people may know of his name but not the breadth of his work.”

Budding authors who wish to embark on a writing career can find inspiration in Manitoban culture.

“Many writers have pointed to the effects of isolation and Prairie landscape on Manitoba writers, while others have pointed to the significant presence and influence of the city of Winnipeg,” says Sweeney.

Manitoba’s diverse community has given even more artistic perspectives.

“There has been a very strong showing by Icelandic, Mennonite, Franco-Manitoban, Ukrainian and other ethnic and Aboriginal communities, who have been influenced by these communities in their writing,” Sweeney continues.

People who are curious about writing, or wish to become authors will be best served contacting the

Manitoba Writers’ Guild. While authors can strike out on their own, the Manitoba Writers’ Guild serves as a great resource with workshops and advice. There is also a special membership fee for students and those on fixed incomes. Membership benefits include a free half-hour legal consultation on writing and publishing, eligibility to apply for the Sheldon Oberman Mentorship program, the ability to work one-on-one with an experienced writer, and a newsletter, which discusses writing news, contests, and markets.

If you aren’t Winnipeg-based, a writers group in Brandon and the Lake Winnipeg Writers’ Group serve as alternative Manitoba writer’s resources.

Students at the University of Manitoba who wish to develop creative writing skills should take appropriate courses in the Department of English, Film, and Theater. Notable professors teaching such courses include: David E. Arnason, Alison Calder, Warren Cariou, Dennis O Cooley, Struan Sinclair and George Toels.

Sweeny recommends, “Publications by Turnstone Press, the literary journal Prairie Fire, and the University of Manitoba’s Mosaic, Contemporary Verse 2: The Canadian Journal of Poetry and Critical” as examples of great local writing talent.

The exhibit Prairies, Pens, and Poets can be found at the University of Manitoba Archives & Special Collections, 330 Elizabeth Dafoe Library, on the third floor, to the left of the Icelandic Reading room. Due to renovations at the library, the building can be accessed from the back door which faces the “B” parking lot. The Archives can be reached at 474-7913 for questions and additional information. illustration by lauren mcphadden

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

Arts & Culture

15

The Ocean that rocked the boat Frank Ocean’s coming out and how it affects hip-hop Jodie Layne

The commercial sector, however, may not give him the same treatment.

Despite the fact that Ocean’s new album, Channel Orange, is number one on iTunes, it will not be sold

by Target. Target, which famously financially supported an anti-gay marriage politician, said in a recent press release: “Our selection of new releases is dedicated to physical CDs rather than titles that are released digitally in advance of the street date.”

According to entertainment website HollyScoop, Target sold a physical copy of an album by pop band Owl City that had been available online up to two weeks before the physical uring the first week of July, two nouns. In what was perhaps the most homophobia is not exclusive to hip- release date. high-profile figures in the public eloquent coming out letter of all-time, hop (“One in a Million,” by Guns The most important part of eye revealed they are either gay or Ocean wrote: “I met somebody. I was ‘n Roses, anyone?) it is certainly Ocean’s declaration of his non-hethave been in a same-sex relationship. 19 years old. He was too. We spent more pronounced. Take Tyler the erosexuality may be the visibility of However, they could not have been that summer, and the summer after, Creator—who used homophobic slurs a queer person of colour, especially more different. One was Anderson together. Everyday almost. And over 200 times on his last album—as for his younger fans.

Cooper, CNN news anchor and talk on the days we were together, time an example.

“I think its important for all youth show host, whose coming out was would glide. Most of the day I’d see Frank Ocean, along with out les- to have role models to identify with more of a formality. The other celeb- him, and his smile. Sleep I would bian Syd the Kid, are also members – there is a type of personal connecrity to come out was Frank Ocean, often share with him.” of the Odd Futures Collective. The tion [ . . . ] when young people can a hip-hop/R&B artist on the Odd “I think music in general and not hip-hop community, including Tyler connect with artists of any genre on Future label who just released his first just hip-hop has been moving in the the Creator (who did so in his own things outside of the music like sexual album on iTunes. direction of more people opening distinct way), reacted supportively orientation, being raised in a single Questions about Ocean’s sexu- up and accepting new ideas,” says and positively. parent home, or being an immigrant,” ality started surfacing after careful Andrew Sannie of Winnipeg rap “It’s really becoming, it doesn’t says Waltta Kadane-Headley who listeners to the preview of his album group, the Lytics. matter who you are and what you’re works at the CRU Youth Wellness noticed love songs with affections The hip-hop and rap genre is about as long as you make good Centre in Saskatchewan. directed at someone with male pro- notoriously homophobic. While music,” Sannie says.

A byproduct of homophobia in any

D

culture is less people being willing to identify as LGBTTQ, which creates a homogenous image for consumption.

Melanie Matining, a community organizer from Vancouver thinks it helps dispel several myths.

“There’s a definite stereotype of hyper masculinity amongst men of colour in hip hop, which gives way to another generalizations: communities of colour are homophobic. All the same, as a queer woman of colour, I often find queer communities to be predominantly white. [Ocean] coming out re-imagines what ‘gay’ looks like for a lot of people and also re-imagines what ‘black’ and ‘hip hop’ looks like for a lot of people.”

With stars like Frank Ocean coming out as queer and Azealia Banks recently self-identifying as bisexual, it looks like there are about to be more stars with big talent for youth to look up to – who they can identify with on multiple levels.

In the closing of his letter Ocean says, “I feel like a free man. If I listen closely, I can hear the sky falling too.”

It would seem that sound might not be the sky falling, but the winds of change blowing through the hip hop industry and a whole generation of youth finding the freedom to be who they really are.

173 Shows Tips on taking in this year’s Winnipeg Fringe Festival Sebastien Ball

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t’s likely if you’re headed to the performing in his 20th production by people that I know, but I always Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival over the last eight years, has been try to check out stuff that I have no this year you’re aware of a few things. attending Fringe for more than a personal connection to; if someone It’s the twenty-fifth anniversary of decade and can be seen in Lost and mentions enjoying it, if it has a really the festival, the beer garden is always Left Behind (a “storytelling show good program blurb, handbill, poster, packed, and there are 173 shows to about the legacy of his grandpar- whatever. I absolutely love being surcheck out over 12 days and you can’t ents who were forcibly moved from prised at Fringe, and if the show ends see them all. the B.C. coast during World War up being less than perfect, well, that’s Now, if you’ve been to the fes- II). And Cory Wreggitt, who’s been part of the fun as well. tival before and are one of those involved with the Fringe as “audipeople who stand outside Safeway ence and entertainer for about twelve Are there any shows, theor McNally Robinson the day the years now” and directed a great per- atre companies, or improv programs go on sale (only $5) odds are formance of Neil Labute’s Autobahn troupes out there that are you already know what you’re going for last year’s festival. a sure bet for a good time? to see. But if you’ve never done the festival before, never attended a per- What draws you Wreggitt: formance of a locally written and per- to the festival?

I never miss Impro-vision or Theatre formed piece in the air-conditioned by the River – I’ve never seen a bad glory of the Tom Hendry Theatre Hirose: show from either troupe. or the upstairs BYOV (bring your I love the breadth and depth of the own Venue) at the King’s Head, well shows at Fringe: the sheer variety in Does venue play into then you may need a little help get- the program speaks to the wide talent your decision at all? ting around. pool that brings shows to the city. On But don’t sweat it; I’ve assembled top of that, it’s all very accessible and Hirose: three Winnipeg Fringe veteran per- leaves you with almost overwhelming If I’m hanging out at the beer formers and super fans to let you options for entertainment. There is tent, closer is definitely better. know what they look for at the Fringe, literally nothing like it in the city at Cinematheque is great since it’s very what acts you shouldn’t miss this year, any other time of year. close and has A/C. The professional and some tidbits about having a great venues (MTC, Warehouse, MTYP) fest.

What do you look for definitely have the most comfortRory Fallis, writer and director of in a Fringe show? able seats and best sight lines. If this year’s Maiden Voyage 4: Come Hell you’re going to other venues (Son of or High Water, an active fringe-goer Hirose: Warehouse & MTC up the Alley and participant since 2009, who saw As a performer, I tend to spend most come to mind) it’s best to get there his first show in 2004. Brent Hirose, of my time watching shows put on early so that you can get ideal seating,

although you might want to stand until the show starts as the folding chairs are not the best.

If your seat comfort is important to you, I highly suggest bringing a cushion! It’s also good to have layers of clothing; sometimes the AC can get a little chilly and you don’t want to be uncomfortable during the show!

Are there any shows you are particularly looking forward to?

Fallis:

The Getaway, Lady Skits, Surf Chimps.

Wreggit:

Fubuki Daiko is back with what I feel is the best titled play this year: Godzilla vs. Led Zepplin! I’m also really interested in a show called The Touring Test by a company called Treading Water – too fringe-y to resist!

Do you spend a lot of time at the outdoor stage?

Hirose:

I always enjoy drinking a beer with my friends while listening to some top-notch local music. Winnipeg’s

art community really comes out to play!

Are there any vendors or kiosks you absolutely have to visit?

Fallis:

Falafel.

Wreggit:

Stay out of my way when you see me headed for the samosa hut. I usually manage to pick up a couple of books at the booksellers, too.

And what would you say is the best thing about Fringe?

Fallis:

Eleven days of fun, creativity, and relentless partying.

Great theatre at an unbelievable bargain, whether it be single tickets, buddy passes or frequent fringer cards.

This year in celebration of the twentyfifth anniversary they’ve added the 25 Hour Fringe Pass, the Overnight Fringe Pass, the Kick Off Show, and the Fringe Overnight Event, to make more shows available. More information on all these great additions is available in the program and online.

Happy Fringing!

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Arts & Culture

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

Event Listings Art

Music

Other

July 6-August 19, Road Movie

by Elle Flanders and Tamira Sawatzky at the Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art

July 20, Greg Crowe & the Scarlet Union, Greg Arcade & the Electrics, and guests at Frame Arts Warehouse

July 18-29, The Winnipeg Fringe Festival (www.winnipegfringe. com)

July 9-27, Face to Face: Personal Perspectives by Tracy Fehr at GoSA: Gallery of Student Art

July 22, Hot Panda, Scotch & Tape, and the Salinas at the Lo Pub

July 19-August 11, Contemporary Indigenous Art from the University of Winnipeg at Gallery 1C03 July 20-26, Cardbored by Toby Gillies and Steve Basham at the Edge Gallery July 20-31, Manitoba Society of Artists: 110 Years group art show at the Cre8ery

July 20, SUNBURN, queer dance party at the Lo Pub

July 25, SKELETONWITCH and guests at the Zoo July 27, Bring the Fight, The Pinkslips, The Uptucks and Loose Nuke at the Cavern July 28, The Stiff Bishops, Les Sexy, and the Manic Shakes at The Standard

July 28, launch party for Down in the Flood, a novel by Sheldon Birnie at Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club

July 27, Behind Closed Doors group art show at Frame Arts Warehouse July 19, Art exhibition by students from Yang Mythos Culture in Shenzhen, China and Ecole St Avila, Pembina Trails School Division at Winnipeg Art Gallery (from 1 – 3 p.m.)

Folk Fest Rewind An eventful year for one of Winnipeg’s biggest summer attractions Ryan Harby, staff

Mondragon, Kawaii Crepe, and Sukhothai all among a large variety of food venders who set up shop this year.

Great selection.

• Great mobile integration This year WFF offered both an iPhone and iPad app for attendants to want a sleeker, more efficient way to navigate the festival offerings. Nice touch.

photo by ryan harby

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or almost 40 years now the It was also announced mid-festival says campaign chair Chris Couture.

Winnipeg Folk Festival (WFF) this year that the WFF had reached a “We believe in the importance of has provided Manitobans, as well new level in their Staging the Future this event in our community and in as many other proximal neighbours, Capital Campaign with a contribu- our province, and we are grateful to with a quality music event experience. tion of $650,000 from the Province of the Winnipeg Foundation and the That much certainly hasn’t changed Manitoba and an additional $100,000 Province of Manitoba for supportover the years, although the festival from the Winnipeg Foundation (in ing it.” has seen its fair share of improve- addition to a previous $100,000 donaAreas of focus for the Staging the ments since its inception in 1974. tion). The new influx brings the cam- Future campaign include improveThis year a total of 336 musicians, paign to a total of $4,264,506 that has ments to the festival village, entrance 2,950 volunteers, and a total cumula- been raised in effort to significantly and egress infrastructure, new forest tive attendance of 53, 826 entrants improve the festival site for the future. stages, in addition to shade, water, converged on Bird’s Hill Park for five The goal of the festival campaign is to and electrical upgrades to be made days of hot sun and good atmosphere raise $6 million by December, 2012. throughout the festival site. Phase for the 39th annual Winnipeg Folk “We are so appreciative of the one of the project, which includes a Fest. According to festival officials supporters who have shared in our $2.7 million investment in backstage there were just shy of 7,000 total vision to ensure that the Winnipeg areas, has already been completed. campers who came to attend this Folk Festival continues to be one of Aside from news of the festival’s year’s festivities.

Manitoba’s best summer attractions,” future, many attendants, perform-

• Friendly, courteous staff As is usually the case, the throngs of volunteer and paid staff at the festival were both friendly and helpful.

• Variety By far the greatest strength of the WFF, the sheer variety of entertainment is staggering. Something for everyone.

ers included, were quite pleased with the experience the current Folk Fest afforded them.

“I was blown away by how thought- Festival Lows fully everyone [ . . . ] was treated,” says • Limited pathway access Silas Lowe of Texas-based Atomic A casualty of the site renovations, this Duo. “Truly one of the most wonder- year festival-goers were denied access ful experiences I’ve ever had.” to the pathway stretching from the Even returning performers such Snowberry Field stage and the Northern as Wales’ Martyn Joseph continue to Lights main stage. Overall less shade, be amazed at the communal experi- more sun, more crowds. ence the Winnipeg Folk Fest offers its artists.

• Inconsistent Wi-Fi “As magnificent and soul feeding Normally not something any festival as I remembered – only even better,” attendee would complain about but the says Jospeh.

WFF did make a point to advertise free Wi-Fi and it was a service that proved Festival Highs quite difficult to pin down.

• Food selection

17

Graphics Editor: Silvana Moran Contact: graphics@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

Diversions

jeff kent

curtonbummings.tumblr.com

lauren Mcphaden

Ryan Harby and ian cormack

erik christiansen

Sports Editor: Marc Lagace Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Sports

18

Q & A with new Bison women’s soccer head coach Hayden Sloane-Seale has big plans and aspirations for upcoming season Grace Romund, staff

M: Do you foresee any challenges in the future as you take up this new position?

HS: Obviously it’s a lot busier being

a head coach. They’ve just recently made it a full-time position as of June 1, which is a big step in the right direction. There are huge challenges, I think, going forward in terms of we’d love to be able to say to all our players we have on our roster, “Hey listen, we could [award a] scholarship and give you so much money” but that’s just not the case in the soccer program – we’re not funded to that photo courtesy of bison sports extent.

I know the Athletics department ew head coach of the Bison Sloane-Seale spoke with the would love for us to be better funded, Women’s soccer team Hayden Manitoban about himself, the team, and for all the other sports programs Sloane-Seale grew up in Winnipeg and their upcoming season. to be better funded, but unlike the and played here are a youth, called States that’s just not quite how it into the Canadian Youth national The Manitoban: What brought works here. So that’s a big challenge team program for the Under 16s. you back to the U of M? – being able to offer scholarships to Sloane-Seale attended U of M for good players that might otherwise go several years, but ultimately finished Hayden Sloane-Seale: somewhere else because they can get his undergraduate degree at the In the summer of 2011, my family and more money somewhere else, not that Adelphi University where he also I moved back [to Winnipeg] and we it’s necessarily more money because played for their men’s soccer team settled back here. I was from here to stay here in Winnipeg and play for three years – two of which he was originally so it was home for me. at the university doesn’t cost a stuteam captain.

I was fortunate enough when I got dent athlete much money anyway, Sloane-Seale got into coaching back that the head coach here Chris but that being said that’s one of the during his time as a graduate student Lewis invited me to come help out challenges. at Western Illinois University. There with the team, and I jumped at the Not being able to have a full-time he was an assistant in the men’s pro- chance because it was a great oppor- staff is certainly another one of the gram and then the women’s program. tunity to stay involved in the game I challenges we face here. We have For the nine years that followed, love. He ended up resigning his posi- to rely a lot upon people’s good will Sloane-Seale was a coach for the tion last November, and so I applied and volunteerism to help make the Challenge Soccer Club in Houston, for the full-time position and I have program go and be as successful as Texas. Just last year he returned to been the Head Coach as of June 1. we want it to be.

Canada, and to the U of M. The last and probably the biggest

N

challenge is that there are some really good players here in the province and to get those good players to want to stay here and play for the university is a challenge. We’ve lost a couple of players we were hoping to get not for this upcoming season, but for the 2013-14 season, who are very good players.

M: Last year the team had a 2-9-3 record and sat eighth overall in their league. Looking forward to the upcoming season, what are the goals for this year?

HS: The goal definitely is to make

the playoffs. I think once you get in the playoffs you’re in a position where anything can happen, especially in the game of soccer [ . . . ] Further down the road is to win the CanWest title and then maybe even a national championship.

M: Are there many changes to the roster, or will we be seeing many of the same players as last year?

HS: There’s going to be quite a few changes to the roster. We’re bringing in ten new faces into the program this year. Just through graduation we’ve lost three or four players, and then there are a couple kids who have eligibility that probably won’t come back because they’ve moved on.

Overall we’re probably losing eight or nine players and we’re bringing in ten new players. We’re in for some big changes. It’s going to be difficult,

but I think the core of the group is relatively the same as last year.

As of right now we have 26 on the roster: three goal keepers and 23 field players, and we still may had one, two, three, or even four players as we start pre-season in August.

M: Former Bison Desiree Scott has recently been called up to be on the 18 women team Canada squad that will be representing Canada in the women’s soccer during the upcoming London Olympics. What kind of impact, if any, does such an accomplishment by a former U of M women’s soccer player have on the players and on the program?

HS: I think her ability to have a huge

influence is definitely there. Des was an assistant last year with the program and I think it’s a great benefit to have somebody with that sort of experience be part of your program.

Obviously she’s a very good player, and she’s certainly interested in getting involved in the coaching side of it as she becomes a little bit older.

Having her involved is a massive benefit to the program because you get to see a great home grown example of a player that didn’t go away, a very good player who had opportunities to go away if she wanted to, decided to stay here and play her soccer here at the university, did very well, and now is, in my opinion, one of the top three or four players representing us at the Olympics.

O, Manitoba!

Manitobans heading to Olympics have quite a legacy to live up to Adam Peleshaty

O

n July 28, the Games of The XXX Olympiad will officially open in London.

Currently, the Canadian Olympic team has five Manitobans named to the team. Winnipegger and former U of M Bison Desiree Scott as well as The Pas-born Chelsea Stewart are teammates on the Canadian women’s soccer team. Also competing at the Olympics are cyclist Clara Hughes, 1500-metre runner Nicole Sifuentes and rowers Kevin Kowalyk and Janine Hanson.

In Aug ust, t he Paralympic Games will also be held in London and Manitobans will also represent Canada such as Niverville’s Jared Funk in wheelchair rugby, Lorette’s Joey Johnson in wheelchair basketball and former Winnipegger Michelle Stilwell in wheelchair racing.

All of these athletes will carry

on the tradition of Manitobans representing Canada in both the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games,a tradition that goes back over a century.

Manitoba’s first-ever Olympic medalists were also golden. In the 1904 Games in St. Louis, the Winnipeg Shamrocks lacrosse

team won the inaugural Olympic to achieve greatness later in the wheelchair basketball and wheelchair lacrosse competition (consisting of century. Winnipeg judoka Mark racing and is looking for five career the Shamrocks, a host team and Berger won a bronze medal, adding Paralympic gold medals. another Canadian team) and the gold to Canada’s record medal count in While every athlete mentioned medal. Lacrosse would be dropped the 1984 Games in Los Angeles. He thus far have all achieved great things, as an Olympic sport after became only the second Canadian their accomplishments pale in comthe 1908 Games. It wouldn’t ever to win a medal in judo. In the parison to three Manitoban swimbe the last time a Manitoba 1992 Games in Barcelona, Brandon’s mers’ performances in the pool. team won Olympic gold, Angela Chalmers won a bronze in Visually impaired swimmer however, as the Winnipeg the women’s 3000m. It would be 16 Tim McIsaac was one of the best Falcons hockey team, in the years until another Canadian woman Paralympic athletes ever. In four only hockey tournament won an Olympic medal in track and Paralympic Games from 1976 to 1988, held at a Summer Olympics, field.

McIsaac won 28 total medals (15 of won the gold medal in 1920.

In 1996, Hughes won double them gold), shattering many world It was also Canada’s first- bronze in road cycling at Atlanta records in the process. Following in ever Olympic gold medal in Games. At Sydney in 2000, McIsaac’s footsteps was another visuhockey.

Dominique Bosshart of Winnipeg ally impaired swimmer Kirby Cote, Dauphin’s Jimmy Ball, a won Canada’s first ever medal in who won a total of 13 medals in the former pharmacy student at taekwondo, a bronze. Track cyclist 2004 and 2008 Games, most notably the U of M, was one of the Tanya Dubnicoff had top-ten finishes five gold medals in the 2004 Games world’s best runners in the at the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympic in Athens. Bilateral amputee Joanne late 1920s and early 1930s. Ball Games.

Mucz also won five gold medals at won two medals at the 1928 However, Manitobans have shown the 1992 Paralympics in Barcelona, Games in Amsterdam: silver more success in the Paralympic all world record performances and in the 400m and bronze in Games. Funk has won two med- was named Canada’s flag bearer in the 4x400m relay. Four years later in als (silver in 2004, bronze in 2008), the closing ceremonies.

Los Angeles, Ball took home bronze Johnson has three medals (gold in again in the 4x400m relay.

2000 and 2004, bronze in 2008), and illustration by silvana moran Manitobans would continue Stilwell has won gold medals in both

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

Sports

19

Bison hockey continues to evolve Macaulay plays with future Jets; two new prospects announced Marc Lagace, staff

A

U of M hockey player got a rare opportunity to practice and scrimmage alongside Mark Scheifele, Jacob Trouba, and many of the Winnipeg Jets’ top prospects as Bison forward Blair Macaulay accepted an invitation to the Winnipeg Jets 2012 Developmental Camp held July 9-13.

Macaulay had an outstanding year with the Bisons in 2011-12.

The third-year veteran finished the season with a CIS-high 23 goals, was named the 2011-12 Canada West Most Valuable Player and was also nominated for the Sullivan trophy awarded to the CIS Player of the Year.

Bison head coach Mike Sirant was very happy for Macaulay, and hoped the experience would help the 24-year-old push his play to new

heights.

“This will be a good experience for him in a number of ways,” Sirant explained. “He’s going to learn dif-

strengths and areas where he still needs to improve on to keep elevating his game.”

“Overall I think it’s going to give

ferent things from the players and the different coaching staff at the prospect staff. It’s going to give him a good awareness as to where he is in terms of his present ability and

him a good deal of confidence and motivation, so if he is back with the Bisons next year I think he’s going to be an even better player thanks to his experiences through the prospects

camp.”

Winnipeg natives who have spent Sirant had the opportunity to several years playing in the WHL. watch part of the camp over the Sirant expects both players to make week, and felt Macaulay did well rep- an immediate impact onto the team. resenting the U of M men’s Baldwin, 21, played four seasons hockey program. He is also with the Spokane Chiefs. Having pleased that True North completed his best season with the has continued to support Chiefs in 2011-12, Baldwin was invited the Bisons after years of to take part in a couple NHL develsupport when the Moose opmental camps this summer. Sirant were in town. hopes the 6’5”, 215 lbs defender will be “It’s very important for an imposing figure on the blue line, our program to have a and continue to fearlessly block shots strong relationship with and shut down opposing forwards for the Jets. We had it before the Bisons. with the initial version of Paradis, 21, is a gritty, two-way the Jets and then with the forward who spent the past five years Moose. It’s great that this splitting time between the Kelowna relationship is continuing.” Rockets and Moose Jaw Warriors In terms of the Bisons' before playing for the Saskatoon own development over the Blades in 2011-12. At 6’1”, 190 lbs, offseason, coach Sirant Paradis is coming off his strongest spoke about the two latest recruits WHL season had 49 points playing that have committed to play for the on the left wing with the Blades last Bisons in 2012-13. season.

Defenseman Corbin Baldwin illustration by silvana moran and forward Jesse Paradis are both

The anticipation continues . . .

The pros and cons of delaying Bombers’ Stadium opening until 2013 Marc Lagace, staff

W

hen the Winnipeg Blue Bombers play their first home game of the 2012 season on July 26, I’ve got a song suggestion for them to play just before kick off: “The

Bison football operations to hold off their plans for the stadium as well.

Despite the disappointment, let’s break down the pros and cons of delaying the grand opening of Investors Group Field.

PROS

Waiting” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.

For Winnipeg football fans eager to enjoy the Investors Group Field, waiting continues to be the hardest part. Despite the club’s best attempt to celebrate the last ever game at Canad Inns Stadium last season— all but guaranteeing that the team would play games at the new stadium in 2012—poor weather conditions proved too hard to overcome.

The Bombers have now pushed the grand opening of IGF until 2013, while construction continues on site. The delay also forces the

100% complete for grand opening One of the biggest perks of holding off on opening the stadium midseason is that when the stadium opens officially next season it will be gameready with all the fancy bells and whistles in place and ready to go.

Many Jets fans may recall seeing some remaining renovation work still in progress in the 300-level early last season. While some wet paint during a renovation is hardly a distraction, you wouldn’t want your first experiences at a brand new stadium to be in a nearly completed state.

With a grand opening of this scale, you would want everything in place, and no glaring shortcomings to distract you from taking in the moment. In that way, starting the 2013 season with a big grand opening shindig should please fans who have been forced to wait for longer than expected.

Another opportunity for storybook ending at CanadInns If the Bombers had beaten the BC Lions in last season’s championship game, they could have presumably christened the new stadium with a Grey Cup celebration.

Now that the stadium will not be ready until 2013, the team has been granted a perfect opportunity to officially cap their time at Winnipeg Stadium on a high note by making it back to—and finally winning—the Grey Cup. Of course, this is much easier said than done. It doesn’t help that the team has been hampered by several key injuries and are off to an incredibly poor start, but there’s still plenty of time to turn things around.

In fact, there’s no better example of a team overcoming a slow start than the very Lions team that beat the Bombers in the 2011 Grey Cup. The Lions didn’t pick up their first win until week six against Saskatchewan, and the team just clicked from then on and dominated the remainder of the season.

customers.

For 1,200 fans, a year’s worth of season tickets in their old seats at CanadInns are more expensive than the seats they had already paid for at IGF stadium. As such, the delayed grand opening of the new stadium meant that they were now expected to pay the price difference between their seats.

Joe Eade was one of those 1,200 season ticket holders affected. Having received his revised invoice in the mail, He contacted the Bombers and a club representative gave him three options: pay the remaining balance on his account, get a refund and forfeit his season tickets or call a lawyer.

Eade used the following analogy to express his frustration: “If I were to have booked a flight in March—a coach seat at an airline— and I showed up for the flight in July Obviously the 2012 Bombers and the and the airline said to me ‘you know 2011 Lions have different strengths what, there’s no more coach seats on and shortcomings, but what the 2011 this flight, so we’re bumping you up Lions example proves is that it doesn’t to first class. But, you have to give us matter how you start, it’s how you $100 or your not flying.’ No airline finish. would ever do that.”

Eade says that as a die-hard CONS Bomber fan, he does not want to lose his season ticket holder status and Fan frustration will likely pay the difference.

Making the transition from one The club may have ultimately stadium to a new one is always going made the right decision to give the to be a massive undertaking, espe- construction crews more time, but cially when you’re an organization in hindsight they probably should that’s trying to satisfy over 20,000 have made a concrete decision before loyal season ticket holders. accepting any seat deposits.

But when that transition is put on hold—after season ticket The 2012 schedule holders already paid for their IGF When the Bombers went about seats—there’s bound to be frustrated setting up their 2012 schedule with

the CFL head offices, they did so with the plan to play their first regular season home game on July 26 at Investors Group Field.

This meant the Bombers would have to hit the road for the first four games of the season. A four game road trip at any point in the season is a long time to be away from the comfort and familiarity of playing at home, let alone at the start the season.

After starting the season 0-3, their best-case scenario is to head into their home opener with a 1-3 record. That’s quite the turn of events for a team that went 7-1 through the first half of last season. The Bombers must find a way to right the ship if they expect to make the playoffs in 2012.

Effect on Bisons and University It comes as no surprise that Bison head coach Brian Dobie and the entire Bison football staff and team are eagerly anticipating moving into their new home on campus. Having talked with Dobie numerous times on the subject, I know that he’s willing to patiently wait as long as he needs to.

But for the players and fans looking forward to taking in the comforts of a brand new stadium, returning to University Stadium for one more year will be quite the downgrade.

Then again, what’s one more season at University Stadium when a palace awaits?

Photo by beibei lu

20

Sports

VOL. 99 ½ NO. 2 July 18, 2012

Legends of the periphery Introducing river conqueror Martin Strel Ryan Harby, staff

From time to time, even some of the greatest and most prolific heroes in all of sports fall through the cracks of obscurity and are lost to the world at large. Legends of the Periphery celebrates the best of the best among the forgotten, the bizarre, the esoteric, and the obscure.

I

t takes a man 66 days to swim the entire distance of the Amazon River. We know this because of Martin Strel.

Similarly, we know that it takes an individual 68 days to swim the Mississippi, 58 days to swim the Danube, and 24 days to swim the Paraná in Argentina – all because one Slovenian man took it upon himself to conquer these waterways by means of long-distance swimming.

An athlete, actor, teacher, promotional figure, business owner, worldrecord holder, and father – this is but a brief snapshot of the persona Martin Strel embodies. Indeed, Strel has not only appeared in several Slovenian movies and TV shows, but he is also the owner of his own brand of wine, both of which endeavors made possible through recognition of his great swimming prowess. In some circles Strel’s celebrity is unmatched.

Born 1954 in what was then a Slovenian region of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Strel grew up in a turbulent household, frequently at odds with his abusive father. Strel even attributes an uncanny ability to endure great pain from his turbulent relationship with his father in his formative years.

Legend has it the first endurance swim Strel ever accomplished wasn’t even by design­­­– he was swimming away from his father.

By his mid-twenties Strel decided to turn habit into a career when he became a professional long-distance swimmer, a vocation that required the Slovenian to supplement his income in other ways during the early

illustration by silvana moran

years. In order to buoy his ambitions for the long swim, Strel spent time as both a professional gambler and flamenco guitar instructor.

A man of many talents, Strel didn’t start making international headlines until 1992 when he swam the distance of the Krka River (105 km) in 28 total hours. The next year Strel swam the Kolpa River (62 km) in 16 hours, nonstop.

In 2000 Strel took his craft to a new level, swimming the distance of the Danube River, breaking both the world record for non-stop swimming at 504.5 kilometres (within 85 hours) as well as the record for longest swim at 3,004 total kilometres. The Danube is the second longest river in Central Europe.

By this time in his career Strel

maintained a strict training regimen of work truly a feat to behold, in 2006 even an odd type of sea madness that that included five hours of swimming Strel would make public his designs saw Strel administer shock therapy every day. The marathon swimmer for a new expedition, one that he on himself all so he could continue also included sessions of tanning, rid- would be known for the world over: to swim, each stroke taking him that ing waterslides, and ample amounts to swim the entire distance of the much closer to his finish line where of wine throughout the training pro- Amazon River. he would continue to spread his mescess, perhaps to help train his mind Never mind the fact that no one sage of “peace, friendship, and clean as well as his body. on record had ever attempted such a waters.” By the 66th day, Strel was so Strel continued to shock the world thing before, Strel was 52-years-old at depleted mentally and physically that with more record distance swims the commencement of the swim, an once he reached the finish he had to in 2002, when he swam the entire age at which most are closer to retire- be taken by ambulance for observaMississippi (3,885 kilometres in 68 ment than peak physical shape. Also tion at a nearby hospital. days), and in 2004, when he swam the factor in the fact that Strel would only All told, it took Strel several Yangtze (4,003 kilometres in 40 days). sleep for approximately four hours per months to recover from his great According to his crew, which is led night on typical marathon swims and Amazon swim. His efforts, however, in part by his son Borut, the Chinese this is decidedly not an activity that were rewarded in the history books Yangtze River was so polluted during favours the old. But Strel, of course, – a record-breaking distance of 5,268 the swim that Strel would routinely is far from ordinary. kilometres swam from start to finish, have to swim passed large masses of For 66 days Strel battled against a distance longer than the width of waste, even dead bodies. second degree burns, hostile tribes, the Atlantic Ocean.

His achievements already a body the threat of crocodiles and piranhas,

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