19 November 2014

MANITOBAN the

THE OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA STUDENTS’ NEWSPAPER

A ruckus in the caucus New minister of education takes the reigns Page 3

Bracing for budget cuts University of Manitoba departments on notice Page 4

How the West was won Bisons advance to national semi-final Page 20

Vo l 1 0 1 · N o 4 3 · N ov e m b e r 1 9 , 2 0 1 4 · w w w.t h e m a n i to b a n .co m

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Index

VOL. 101 NO. 43 November 19, 2014

Comment

Editor-in-Chief vacant

Responding to Poloz

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Students need to stand up for their rights, not work for free

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Business manager Angela England

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Editorial

Senior News Editor Dana Hatherly

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News Editor Craig Adolphe

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Comment Editor Tom Ingram

Science

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A brief history of Rosetta

Managing Editor Fraser Nelund

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science & technology Editor Chantelle Dubois

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A look at the comet probe's 20-year journey

arts & Culture Editor Lauren Siddall

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Sports Editor Mike Still

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Copy Editor Carlyn Schellenberg

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Arts & Culture

Chew on this

Restaraunt owners open up new 'storestaurant' next door

Design

Design Editor Bradly Wohlgemuth

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Graphics Editor Bram Keast

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Photo Editor Carolyne Kroeker

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design associate Scott Ford

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graphics associate Evan Tremblay

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Reporters

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

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The jump from junior Kienan LaFrance and Alex Vitt Rifle stories

Correction

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by Jordan Dumba

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News

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

Selinger, former ministers raise a ruckus in the caucus New minister of education and advanced learning has full plate, proposed University of Manitoba budget cuts to chew on Philma Scheepers, staff

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anitoba’s New Democratic Party (NDP) caucus underwent several major alterations this month, including a change in the minister of education and advanced learning, predicated by the resignation of five senior ministers from cabinet. On Nov. 3, changes to the provincial cabinet were made, which saw some ministers shuffled and some Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) promoted to fill the gaps that the five left behind.

The five ministers who stepped down are: Fort Rouge MLA and former minister of finance, Jennifer Howard; Dauphin MLA and former minister of municipal government, Stan Struthers; Seine River MLA and former minister for jobs and the economy, Theresa Oswald; Minto MLA and former minister of justice, Andrew Swan; and Southdale MLA and former minister of health, Erin Selby.

The former ministers resigned after their public calls on Premier Greg Selinger to resign were ignored.

Citing concerns about Selinger’s leadership as the cause of their resignation, the former ministers were accusing him of prioritizing the objectives of ministers who support his agenda.

On the day of the resignations, Selinger released a statement referring to conversations he had with the five outgoing cabinet ministers. He told them that if the ministers refused to work as part of Selinger’s team, then they should resign.

The new ministers appointed to cabinet included: Selkirk MLA, Greg Dewar, as minister of finance; St. James MLA, Deanne Crothers, as minister of healthy living and seniors; Brandon East MLA, Drew Caldwell, as minister of municipal government;

and Burrows MLA, Melanie Wight, held the housing portfolio, which as minister of children and youth means he could be well attuned to opportunities. some of the social needs of students Several other ministers had their such as access to affordable housing. roles alternated or enhanced such as: Mitchell van Ineveld, deputy Kirkfield Park MLA, Sharon Blady, chairperson for the Canadian was appointed to minister of health; Federation of Students-Manitoba Point Douglas MLA, Kevin Chief, (CFS-MB), is currently leading the was made minister of jobs and the CFS Education for All campaign. economy; Fort Richmond MLA, Van Ineveld told the Manitoban that Kerri Irvin-Ross, was appointed to the CFS-MB is currently working on minister of housing and community a request for Bjornson to do a meet development and minister respon- and greet on all four university camsible for persons with disabilities; and puses in Manitoba.

Kewatinook MLA, Eric Robinson, “One of the things that my colwas made minister responsible for leagues and I appreciated about his Manitoba Hydro. predecessor, James Allum, was that James Allum, MLA for Fort he really did have an open-door Garry-Riverview and former minister policy when it came to his attitude of education and advanced learning, toward students. We found that it has taken over as minister of justice was always quite easy to get a meeting and attorney general. Peter Bjornson, with him and for him to listen to us, site, the Manitoba NDP govern- may be overlooked.

MLA for Gimli, was instated as so I think that’s really the starting ment had “promised a five per cent “Despite the change in ministry, the new minister of education and point for Minister Bjornson,” said annual core funding increase during we don’t want them to forget that the most recent election.” However, we do have a significant number of advanced learning.

Veitch.

Since 2003, Bjornson has held a In light of recently proposed bud- that number is proposed to be cut in students pushing for lower tuition place in Manitoba’s caucus, being first get cuts at the University of Manitoba, half to 2.5 per cent, which is a large costs. We want the department of appointed as the minister of educa- the new minister already has a lot part of the reason for the university- education to know that there is a lot tion, citizenship and youth, then as on his plate. The proposed budget wide cuts. of pressure still to reduce barriers to minister of entrepreneurship, train- cuts for the 2015-2016 academic year The consequences of underfund- an education,” said van Ineveld. ing and trade in 2009. Before his most has been met by questioning from ing are already being felt, according In terms of recommendations for recent advancement, Bjornson was students and faculty members, with a to Veitch, as greater reliance has been Minister Bjornson, Veitch said that the minister of housing and commu- public assembly to be held on Nov. 26 formed on user fees and tuition fees. it is important to include students in nity development. in order to seek information about— The result is “forcing students to the consultation process in a substanBefore entering politics, Bjornson as well as resist—the impending cuts. increasingly pay for the cost of their tive way. spent 13 years as a teacher in Gimli As one of his first acts as the new education as opposed to society col“I think one of the things that and served as president of the minister of education and advanced lectively investing in education.” students have been calling for—for Evergreen Teachers Association learning, Bjornson held talks with Canadian Federation of Students- years—is continued, steady, stable executive in 1996. the U of M on its capital needs as part Manitoba passed a motion on Nov. 6 funding increases for post-secondary “I’m cautiously optimistic given the of the university’s Front and Centre to renounce the proposed budget cuts. institutions,” said Veitch. fact that Minister Bjornson has held campaign, which aims to collect $500 The federation resolved “to call on the “As always, we are prepared to the education portfolio back when it million in donations and government provincial government to increase work with anyone and everyone. was K-12,” said Peyton Veitch, vice- grants. Bjornson, however, did not post-secondary education funding We will be meeting with Minister president advocate for the University confirm whether the provincial gov- in the upcoming provincial budget.” Bjornson soon to see how best we can of Winnipeg Students’ Association. ernment has signed off on any grants The changeover in ministry has preserve the interests of students here Veitch said that he also finds it so far. van Ineveld worried that the efforts at the University of Manitoba," said encouraging that Minister Bjornson According to the CFS-MB web- of the Education for All campaign UMSU president Al Turnbull.

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News

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

Budget cuts coming to U of M Faculties preparing for 3 or 4% cut, university could face $10.5 million shortfall Ethan Cabel, staff

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he University of Manitoba us is funded at,” Barnard said, adding administration has instructed that the aggregate amount of tuition faculties and other non-academic fees coupled with the provincial govunits to prepare for four per cent bud- ernment’s annual operating grant is get cuts for each of the next two years. too low to sustain current university According to U of M president expenditures.

David Barnard, the proposed cuts “It’s low in large measure because are contingent on how much the of tuition fees being much lower than provincial government increases its they are in the country [ . . . ] if they annual operating grant for Manitoba moved up to be comparable to fees universities. at other universities it would mean The provincial government a substantial increase in revenues for increased the annual operating grant the university.” for all universities in the province by According to Barnard, the 2.5 per cent in their March budget for University of Saskatchewan (U of S) 2014-2015, surprising post-secondary is an example of an institution that institutions that were preparing for receives more in tuition fees than the an increase of zero.

U of M but still remains affordable As a result, the U of M is draft- compared to the national average. If ing its 2015-2016 budget in anticipa- the U of M received the same tuition tion of either a 2.5 per cent increase fees on a program-by-program basis or an increase of zero. All units are as the U of S, it would have access to being asked to prepare and make rec- over $40 million in additional revenue ommendations for a three per cent annually, Barnard said. budget cut if the operating grant Following a decrease in tuition increases at the same rate as 2014, or fees in 1999 and 2000 and a decade four per cent if the operating grant of tuition freezes in Manitoba, the remains stagnant. provincial government allowed uniAll units are also being asked to versities to raise tuition by up to 4.5 prepare for average budget cuts of per cent in 2009 and up to five per four per cent for the 2016-2017 aca- cent in 2010. demic year.

In 2011, the provincial government “Those will not be easy adjustments capped tuition fees at the rate of inflafor anyone, I think everybody is doing tion, where they have remained since. good work with the resources they’ve The province initially promised to got,” Barnard told the Manitoban. raise the operating grant for universi“The question really is: what would ties by five per cent a year for three you do to make a difference if you had years after 2011 to account for low to make a difference?” tuition, but the government reneged According to Barnard, the cuts in the final year. In the 2013 budget, may be necessary given that the U the government increased the operatof M faces a budget shortfall of $10.5 ing grant by only 2.5 per cent, increasmillion even if the operating grant ing it by the same rate again this year. increases by 2.5 per cent this year. The grant makes up 56 per cent of the U Students and faculty respond of M’s operating budget.

“This university is funded on a per Students and faculty members student basis on average below what are questioning whether the cuts are the average university that looks like fully justified and whether the level

of transparency in the university’s budget process is sufficient.

“In general, students aren’t consulted in any way when it comes to where budgets are going [ . . . ] right now that’s non-existent,” said Kaitlyn Gibson, a fourth-year global political economy student at the U of M. “Our tuition rises every year. How is that being allocated and is our administration working in the most efficient way?”

Gibson continued, “We need to be talking to them and there needs to be an understanding of what the issues are and they should know that students are concerned and that they do want to be part of this.”

Along with several other students and faculty members, Gibson has organized a public assembly to be held on Nov. 26. The assembly will act as a means of organizing resistance to the impending cuts while also seeking more information about the budget process.

Robert Chernomas, a U of M economics professor critical of the proposed cuts, is slated to speak at the assembly.

Chernomas argues that the university’s claims of a funding crunch are misleading. He claims that the U of M is spending millions in administrative costs, including through communications and marketing, that should be allocated to faculty and other academic areas.

“They are making choices that may not be consistent with the interest of students, professors, and staff at the University of Manitoba and so what we want to be able to do is make those decisions transparent,” he said, conceding that the U of M did experience a decrease in its expected operating grant.

“They are still playing with an awful lot of money that they are using

for other purposes that could make that has been promised them from it possible not to have cuts to faculty the province,” Turnbull said, adding and instead continue funding stu- that the U of M was making longdents, graduate students, libraries so term projections on the basis of larger we don’t have fewer courses or larger and more steady funding increases class sizes.” from the provincial government.

The Canadian Federation of “When there’s no money you can’t Students-Manitoba (CFS-MB) make any perfect decisions [ . . . ] I’m passed a motion at their Nov. 6 pro- in all the meetings and I have a fairly vincial executive meeting that repudi- good understanding of the situation ated the proposed budget cuts at the right now that the university is in and U of M. The motion also vowed that it isn’t good and it hasn’t been good the CFS-MB will lobby the provin- for a year and a half.”

Laura Rempel, president of the cial government to increase funding for post-secondary education in next U of M Graduate Students U of year’s budget.

M Graduate Students Association Zach Fleisher, CFS-MB chair- Association, is concerned that the person, is particularly critical of the proposed cuts may have an impact university’s early budget process, on graduate programs. She sits on known as the strategic resource allo- the university’s board of governors and has been aware of potential cuts cation process.

“The university budget isn’t trans- since May. parent and it isn’t accessible and “I think it would be difficult to it’s unclear how these decisions are maintain a high quality of education made,” Fleisher said. in this current climate of austerity “To my understanding, students measures,” she said, adding that more aren’t bringing these concerns up and information is needed on the potenif their elected student representatives tial impact of the cuts. are privy to this and have a say on this, “There is money around but I think they aren’t making it known.” it is a matter of prioritization and how Al Turnbull, UMSU president, the money will be distributed [ . . . ] I has known that the U of M was pre- think that there will be some strategic paring for cuts over the last year and prioritization of [graduate] programs in the next little while.” a half.

Turnbull sits on the senate straUniversity of Manitoba Faculty tegic planning committee and is a Association vice-president Mark member of the university’s board of Hudson responded to the Manitoban’s governors. He argues that the U of M email queries about the cuts. is faced with difficult choices given “In arts, which is my own faculty, the funding outlook from the pro- it’s impossible to imagine how cuts of vincial government and that UMSU this magnitude won’t impact seriously is committed to lobbying the gov- on our programs, course offerings ernment for more stable funding in and class sizes. With just a 1.5 per anticipation of the 2015 provincial cent cut last year, departments across election. arts were already forced to chop a “This is in many ways a dark time very significant number of courses,” for the university, where they can’t Hudson said. make any moves to raise tuition and they haven’t been given the amount

VOL. 101 NO. 43 November 19, 2014

News

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Trick or Eat is a treat Campus event raises awareness about food security Craig Adolphe, staff

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he national Trick or Eat camHealth Canada defines household student from Korea in the faculty of paign held an event at the food insecurity as “the inability to arts who took part in the Trick or Eat University of Manitoba’s Fort Garry acquire or consume an adequate or event, said it would take collective campus on Oct. 30 and 31, hosted sufficient quantity of food in socially action to end hunger in Canada.

by Student Life’s Praxis group in acceptable ways, or the uncertainty “Communities should work out the partnership with Residence Life’s that one will be able to do so.” problem together. People should be Thrive team.

In 2011, 1.6 million Canadian aware of the issue first.”

The annual campaign, which is households—just over 12 per cent— For Kim, the event also served as overseen by the Canadian charitable experienced food insecurity, accord- an introduction to Halloween as a group Meal Exchange and imple- ing to a report produced by PROOF cultural phenomenon. mented by a variety of local commu- and supported by the Canadian “It was my first time being involved nity groups across Canada, aims to Institutes of Health Research. These in Halloween events! Back in Korea, collect food items for those experienc- households represented 3.9 million we don’t have Halloween,” said Kim. ing food insecurity. The campaign is individuals, 1.1 million of which were “I really enjoyed [this] event.” also directed at shifting the focus of children. These figures are up from discussion about food insecurity to 2008, when 3.5 million Canadians “I know what lack experienced similar conditions. the systemic nature of hunger.

Food insecurity is most prevalent of food can do to a in Nunavut, where over 36.4 per cent “It was my first child [ . . . ] Access to of households experienced a lack of access to healthy food in 2011.

No time being involved food and shelter are province or territory is immune. The in Halloween province with the lowest levels of just too important to food insecurity was Newfoundland events! Back in and Labrador where it was mea- be left unattended sured at 10.6 per cent. That same Korea, we don’t to” – Falilat year, Manitoba was at the median have Halloween” – of Canada’s 13 provinces and territo- Mobolaji Ibrahim, ries with 12.4 per cent of households Chaeyoung Kim, graduate student experiencing food insecurity.

Korean exchange On Oct. 30 a representative from Winnipeg Harvest came to the Fort Despite the fun of the cultural student Garry campus to make a presenta- exchange, Kim recognized the tion to students in the Praxis pro- importance of the food security eleThe Praxis program brings stu- gram about food insecurity in the ment of the Trick or Eat event. dents together to tackle social justice city. On Halloween, the following “Food is one of the most important night, 45 students split into groups requisites in our lives. Sharing our problems in the public sphere.

“Members learn about and discuss and went out to collect non-perish- food itself can’t be a long-term solusocial justice issues that affect our able food items in the Fort Richmond tion, but we need immediate measures, community on the local, national, neighbourhood. too. It gives people in hunger hope and Lam told the Manitoban that the it is the starting point for helping them and international level. These discussions provide a framework for stu- students collected a total of 278-kg of overcome poverty,” said Kim. dents to volunteer or create projects food – 802 items.

Falilat Mobolaji Ibrahim, a graduthat address social justice issues (like While they collected food items, ate student from Nigeria studying law Trick or Eat, or Gowns for Grads),” student-participants asked commu- at the U of M, also attended the event according to the Praxis program’s nity members, “Hunger is on the rise and shared a personal connection to in Canada, what can Canadians do the issue of hunger. profile on the U of M’s website.

Linda Lam, the Praxis program to end it?”

“My passion for access to food assistant, helped co-ordinate the event People’s responses were tweeted stemmed from childhood. I had a at which U of M students collected with the hopes of sparking discussion hard time while growing up and I food items for Winnipeg Harvest and on the topic of access to healthy food. know what lack of food can do to a Chaeyoung Kim, an exchange child; it can be the source of all kinds learned about food security issues.

Photo by David Arenas Oropreza

of wrong decisions. Access to food and shelter are just too important to be left unattended to.

“I must say that [ . . . ] we need a long-term solution; skills acquisition for people or communities that have a high rate of food insecurity, provision of employment, and maybe increase in minimum wage.”

When asked if he felt proud

about how much food was collected, Ibrahim said, “I cannot say I am proud. I think the pride goes to Winnipeg Harvest who thought of the initiative [and] the kind people who went to their kitchen and stores and gave food to people they may never know. I was just honoured for a chance to contribute.”

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News

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

University of Manitoba Faculty Association elects new vice-president Mark Hudson hopes for increased discussion between students, faculty Craig Adolphe, staff

dent, said Hudson.

“They’ve both made huge contributions to UMFA. It’s a real sign of vibrancy that we had three people running for the position. I think we’re seeing a re-emergent interest in the association’s governance, and a recognition that we all need to chip in if we want to have a strong organization.”

“I know how important and effective faculty associations are in defending work life quality and safeguarding university as a place of free inquiry and learning” – Mark Hudson

photo by Dana Hatherly, staff

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he University of Manitoba Italian/German/Slavic studies, Faculty Association (UMFA) has respectively. Hudson also served as elected a new vice-president after an member-at-large on the executive opening was created for the position council. Reitano will retain her seat on the board of representatives. in May. Three candidates were nominTom Booth, professor in the ated for the position: Mark Hudson, department of biological sciences, assistant professor in the department served as executive-secretary last year of sociology and co-ordinator for the and won the vice-president position global political economy program; in an uncontested election last winCaterina Reitano, senior Spanish ter. However, at the May meeting instructor from the French, Spanish of UMFA’s board of representatives, and Italian department; and Kevin Booth declined the seat.

Scott, senior instructor from the University of Manitoba Faculty department of biological sciences.

Association president Thomas Kucera Ballots were delivered to UMFA told the Manitoban that Booth’s decimembers by mail and counted after sion was made in hopes of creating the voting period closed on Oct. room for new people to get involved 29. Mark Hudson was declared the with UMFA’s executive council. winner.

Booth previously served as presiHudson and Reitano had both dent of UMFA. Since declining the previously served as representatives vice-president position, he has been on UMFA’s board of representatives elected president of the Canadian for sociology and French/Spanish/ Association of University Teachers

Defence Fund.

Hudson said that he ran for the vice-president position because he believed UMFA had been critical in preserving the quality of faculty’s work life and fighting for academic freedom on campus.

“My father—then a professor in the faculty of social work—walked on the UMFA strike lines in 1995.

His commitment to the principles of academic freedom that UMFA was defending then—and that it’s still fighting for now—was part of what inspired me to get more involved.

“Also, having worked at nonunionized [institutions in the United States] where faculty work has been devalued; where administrations have unilaterally increased faculty workloads and set salaries; and where they have pushed for a model of top-down institutional governance, I know how important and effective faculty asso-

ciations are in defending work life quality and safeguarding university as a place of free inquiry and learning.”

“I think we’re seeing a re-emergent interest in the association’s governance, and a recognition that we all need to chip in if we want to have a strong organization” – Mark Hudson, UMFA vice-president Either of the other candidates would have made a great vice-presi-

Hudson said he would like to see increased discussion between students, faculty, and student and sessional academic workers—represented by CUPE 3909—over issues that impact them all.

“One of the things I’d like to do is to build those relationships – get us into a more sustained conversation about how the university runs, spends money, [and] makes decisions.”

He also placed a priority on reaching out to new and junior faculty members.

“There are plenty of ways that members can participate in running the association, and I think we have some work to do to make newer faculty aware of this – and maybe to remind some of the more senior people as well. [The University of Manitoba Faculty Association] bargains our collective agreement, and we defend our members against violations of that agreement, but we do that better the more our members feel that this really is their union.”

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

Questioning corporatized campuses Concerns about influences on higher education, research Dana Hatherly, staff

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he corporatization of higher research and reform educational education and the corporate implications. prioritization of research questions The prioritization of research are serious concerns challenging the interests and direction of research has intellectual integrity of the academy major implications on both students’ and public research institutions. opportunities and the formulation of Since the 1980s, the corporatiza- research questions. Certain research tion of universities has become an questions—under guidance in the increasingly significant concept, with form of grants and funding incenthe wider, deeper impacts of privati- tives—and evidence may be used to zation on both local and global scales. fulfill capital interests over public Cambridge Dictionaries Online concerns.

Is the university setting an approdefines the term “corporatize” as “to change a government organization priate place for addressing public into a privately owned company.” The questions and concerns? corporate structure and influence on The production of scientific knowlstate-owned, public institutions like edge—which provides evidence for universities has obvious implications. informing debates about governAccording to Robert Chernomas, ment and industry development University of Manitoba professor of projects—is becoming increasingly economics, the core issue is the allo- limited due to the growing corporate cation of funds; influenced by and prioritization of research questions the determining factor of who con- and perspectives. The debate about trols the research and who does not. the shifting theoretical and practical With the presence of various corpo- implications of the academic truth in rate entities at universities, are there post-secondary institutions sets the legitimate grounds for concern about stage for significant public inquiry. the corporatization of higher educaFor instance, there is a growing tion and the corporate prioritization desire among the student and civic of research questions? population for opposing power strucQuestioning the priorities of the tures to mount resistance against the current Conservative government, existing social, political, economiJamie Brownlee—U of M master of cal, and ecological circumstances. arts graduate and author of Ruling Dominant approaches to developCanada: Corporate Cohesion and ment tend to prioritize corporate matDemocracy—suggested that there are ters—perhaps motivated by the need legitimate reasons for concern. In his to secure funding—at the expense of presentations, about the commodifi- marginalizing public questions and cation of education, offered at the U concerns.

Will reigning scientific theories of M in 2013 and the University of Winnipeg in 2014, Brownlee asserted and practices of development induced that underfunding for public univer- by post-secondary research institusities leads to austerity measures and tions succeed in dismantling domileaves public research institutions nant power structures and addressing dependent on corporate funding, daily living conditions and distresses? leading them to support corporate Academics have expressed concerns that the current approaches at the mandates.

Brownlee proposed that the three core of research institutions are insufmajor problems facing universities ficient. The dominant approach may were: austerity measures to save in be inadequate in determining the expenditures due to tax reductions; relevancy of measured variables and prioritizing short-term economic explaining or interpreting certain research; and performance evalua- processes affecting living conditions.

In the context of research and tions which are problematic for longdevelopment in the university setting, term research.

Universities are the primary it is vital to consider the likelihood of locations for basic research to take under-representing scientific knowlplace and for scientific knowledge to edge such as in the natural sciences develop. The dynamics of power sys- and humanities. With quantifiable tems driving corporatization (com- results indicating mechanisms of plex relations between corporations, funding, there are inherent probgovernments, and public institutions) lems with the proposed use of metric in determining funding requirements assessments for evaluating studies have set the stage for implicit influ- that are qualitative in nature.

Metric assessments will valiences on research questions, guiding scientific development of knowledge date certain data gathered through research and fieldwork, subsequently within public research institutions.

To what extent is the production prioritizing and directing the sigof scientific knowledge based on the nificance of some research questions prioritization of corporate interests? over others.

In the past, fundamental quesWhat are the impacts of this prioritization on learning, education, and tions driving scientific inquiry have lacked solid grounds for determining research in the academic setting?

Within institutions of higher the basis for what the scientific truth learning, various existing perspec- should be and how to obtain knowltives about discovering, representing, edge about it. It is necessary to underand stating the truth—demonstrated stand these fundamental assumptions by the plethora of faculties, depart- by developing methods of reasoning ments, and contradictions within for discerning truth.

How do universities determine and across fields of study—inform

graphic by Bram Keast, staff

whether particular research questions or guiding theories fit their research mandate? How does academia discern truth?

Some notions about scientific truth assert that it should be determined by the evidence used to support it. This doctrine states that all valid or truthful scientific knowledge must originate in experience and observation. The source of our scientific knowledge and our basis for evaluation of scientific claims is determined by the type of evidence that we use to prove it and our means of interpreting data.

Theory limits our scientific understanding of the world in the way that it dictates and influences our perception and determination of research questions. In the above theory, science is not based on complete knowledge of all the facts. Rather, the construction of scientific knowledge is based on dominating worldviews that guide analysis and determining factors based on analysis.

The dominant basis for accepting or rejecting claims in higher educational and research settings shapes how scientific theory in the classroom leads to the selection of certain topics for research and approaches to finding evidence and solutions. The process may lead to the imposition of research questions through emphasizing problems or variables which are quantitatively defined or monetarily addressed.

Some academics would argue that it is impossible to include all variables or collect all data. There are simply too many variables and too much data. Selective evidence and observations are used. The outcome is biased interpretation.

Furthermore, as much as researchers strive to be objective, they will inevitably choose to focus on particular elements and factors that are worth noticing and writing about, at

the risk of excluding other crucial or face challenges common to minorindicators that may seem insignifi- ity groups engaging in any alternacant at the time and under their par- tive perspectives. Since alternative ticular lens of study. perspectives may not be financially Objective observation is impos- supported by the university, fundsible. Each observer maintains their ing issues could be major concerns own worldview, social standing, – particularly if these approaches political perspectives, economic sta- come into conf lict with conventus, and scientific biases varied within tional approaches enshrined by major and across disciplines. sources of funding.

Consider the impartialities—or On the other hand, resurgences lack thereof—for selecting problems of alternative perspectives—alongfor investigation, advancing tentative side critiques of previously dominant solutions, and testing said solutions. systems of knowledge—will lead to Objectivity may depend on whether scientific revolution. The overthrow researchers’ definition of science is of scientific paradigms provides based on the dominant framework grounds for critically understanding characterized by the progressive accu- the world and lived conditions. mulation of data and knowledge; or By criticizing power relations refinement and repeated revolutions and disempowering classifications in which previous systems of knowl- involved in the production of scienedge are overturned and alternatives tific knowledge, disadvantaged peoare produced. ple may become active components of Some theorists argue that sci- research rather than objects of study. entific research is organized by For this to happen, universities need paradigms. Does this extrapolate to to develop frameworks for working universities? Members of specific sci- with people in their communities to entific communities share the same promote their active roles in seektraining or the same goals. These ing objective ways for understanding members refer to the same literature the environment, humanity, and our and are trained to pose research ques- social, political, and economic cirtions; study different facets linked to cumstances based on lived conditions. their particular lens; and propose speThis requires the collective acacific ways of understanding systems demic will to develop a framework for of knowledge. academic freedom which permits and Political and economic bases encourages basic research, as well as shared within paradigms particularly critical thinking and alternative percondition how researchers approach spectives. It requires direct analysis of data collection and perceive evidence the institutional dismantling of the at hand. Our political and economic academic setting for undergoing basic exposures fundamentally narrow research as well as challenging the our viewpoints and prioritize cer- accepted truths undermining public tain research questions and perspec- research priorities and concerns in tives. This trend allegedly produces the humanities and physical sciences. students who are inherently taught It requires serious inquiry regarding to uphold certain beliefs in order to threats to academic freedom on camensure that alternative paradigms pus and the impacts on undergraduwithin the institution will have dif- ate students, graduate students, and ficulty competing. faculty members in learning, research, The result is that students either and teaching environments. subscribe to dominant approaches

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

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Letters to the editor Although the "Letters to the editor" section is intended to be a public forum and therefore to represent as many diverse opinions as possible, personal attacks or libellous statements will not be published.

Letters will be routinely edited for spelling, grammar, length, clarity, and when appropriate, content. re: UMSU political neutrality

While there are many qualms that I would raise with Ethan Cabel’s recent article around the perceived political neutrality of student unions, I would first ask him to consider both recent and not so recent historical trends. For years, student unions have found injustice on their campuses and instead of standing idly by have pushed for alternatives. For example, while Cabel praises UMSU for “supporting policies to mitigate sexual harassment,” he fails to recognize that this is the culmination of a decades-long battle for equality not only on our campuses, but in our societies. Campus groups have long been at the forefront of those battles.

Similarly, Cabel praises programs such as the U-Pass. Again, as someone who emerged as an early champion of the program and who guided it through City Hall, I can point to a dominant car culture in an era of potentially catastrophic climate change as my main motivation for putting forward this effort. While the end result may seem like a minute exertion of political capital, the motivations behind the program are much grander. As students, we need to push to create the world that we will inhabit post-graduation – full time or part time alike. Complacency and sitting idly by while poverty, climate change, and gender inequality continue to occur is simply not an option and working on these issues in a democratic framework is the best way to move forward.

As famed American president John F. Kennedy once said: “The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of great moral crisis, maintain their neutrality.”

Students unions have a duty to shift the paradigm and fight for what is right especially in our modern era.

Instead of neglecting the process, I’d invite those who share Ethan’s views to get involved and bring their perspectives to the table; we’d welcome their presence.

Zack Fleisher, chair of the Canadian Federation of Students-Manitoba

The facade of neutrality

In an article in the Nov. 12 issue of the Manitoban, “UMSU Gets it Right With Political Neutrality,” Ethan Cabel asserts that political action has a limited place within the mandate of today’s student unions.

Singling out the “radical” University of Winnipeg Students’ Association, where we are executive members, he suggests that our student activism is out of touch with the needs of our membership.

We beg to differ. Were we to pursue Cabel’s “neutral” path to student unionism, the result would be devoid of meaning and direction. Instead of passively accepting inequalities and injustices, we choose a different path.

In the face of a postsecondary system that is increasingly inaccessible, the persistence of racism, homophobia, and misogyny on our campuses and a labour market where the only jobs for young people seem to be parttime or precarious, “neutrality” means a forfeiture of responsibility As tuition fees continue to rise, outstripping inflation, it’s clear that more and more students are having a tougher time paying for their education. It now takes twice as long for a student working a minimum wage job to pay for one year of tuition as it did in 1972. Average student debt in Canada stands at $27,000, while the total federal student debt has ballooned to over $15 billion and continues to grow.

As Cabel points out, this has consequences on the livelihoods of university students, who are forced to work longer hours, for low wages, all while balancing an education with severe implications for their future should they fail. As the pressures mount, students are increasingly put in precarious and unjust positions in their pursuit of higher education.

Students’ unions are witnessing the impact of this. Too many students don’t know where their next meal will

be coming from. This year, we have seen the percentage of University of Winnipeg Students’ Association Food Bank users who are students increase to 25 per cent. Demand for our new Student Support Program— offering emergency food, housing, and transportation—continues to grow.

A high debt load and a lack of personal stability isn’t just a burden for the student. Debt makes graduates less likely to start a family or take on entrepreneurial risk. Insecurity stifles creation and muzzles the opportunity afforded to those who access higher education.

This is troubling, as universities are fundamentally agents of change.

As institutions, they provide opportunities for research, debate, disagreement, and ultimately progress.

Our responsibility is to build a better world on behalf of our members: to break down the barriers between the rich and poor, the privileged and the oppressed, the haves and the have-nots.

If our union fails to challenge an economic system that forces students to attend class on an empty stomach amidst a sea of food waste and conspicuous consumption; that ignores the intersectionality of economic privilege with patriarchy, sexism, ableism, homophobia, and transphobia; then we must be judged to have failed.

Cabel is correct that there are “no easy answers to some of the problems post-secondary institutions must confront.” Rather than shying away from the challenge, student unions have a responsibility to embrace it.

We must not simply acquiesce to the pressures of the present. We must defy, innovate, and strive to address our shortcomings with a fierce belief in the art of collective action.

We are proud to partner with groups like the Winnipeg Peoples’ Social Forum, trade unions, and indigenous movements that share our values and vision of a fairer society. The same neoliberal doctrine that undermines workers’ rights and slashes environmental protections also starves our post-secondary institutions of funding and forces students to graduate with crippling debt loads.

Cabel labels the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS) as “notorious for harbouring a leftwing or social democratic ideology.”

Perhaps he’s forgotten the gains made

by working people in Canada; public healthcare, a national pension plan, old age security, and employment insurance are available to him because of the victories won by progressives.

We’re proud to build on this legacy through our membership in the CFS. We’ve been able to secure gains that not only work towards larger social goals, but better the lives of our members immediately. Ask one of the over 350,000 students that are now able to access $695 million in federal student grants; ask any international student who can now rely on the same health coverage all Manitobans benefit from.

Far from the irrelevance that Cabel characterizes it as, the CFS is a genuine force for policy changes that directly benefit students and society as a whole.

The late American historian Howard Zinn famously said that “you can’t be neutral on a moving train.” In the face of a post-secondary system that is increasingly inaccessible, the persistence of racism, homophobia, and misogyny on our campuses and a labour market where the only jobs for young people seem to be part-time or precarious, “neutrality” means a forfeiture of responsibility.

“Neutrality” is the facade behind which the unimaginative, unambitious defenders of the status quo hide.

While we all have different life experiences and identities, students share a desire to be treated equitably inside and outside the classroom. If receiving flak from pundits is the price we pay for seeking this goal, we’re glad to pay it.

Rorie Mcleod Arnould, president of the University of Winnipeg Students’ Association, and Peyton Veitch, vicepresident advocate of the University of Winnipeg Students’ Association

re: Manitoban covers

The front page used to grab my attention with its eye-catching, colourful, and original design. It now lacks these qualities, and seems to remain constant as the weeks go by. The new three-row layout does no justice to the images it portrays, and the weeks just blend together. It’s difficult to identify the actual images and text that make up the front page without getting extremely close to the paper itself. It used to be that the front page could be seen from a mile away, and always grabbed my attention, especially since you started

using colour.

I would always take notice of the Manitoban; it would be like a beacon in my life. Being an undergraduate, then graduate student here for the past eight years, I’m starting to feel as though my life is not changing and that I’ve been doing the same thing over and over again, always working on some project or some assignment that’s due yesterday. The days blend together; the weeks, months, years all combine into one hazy blur that is university life. There was one beacon in this haze that always made me stop, made me think about why I was still here – the Manitoban.

There was one beacon in this haze that always made me stop, made me think about why I was still here – the Manitoban When your front page was as eyecatching as it was, I stopped, picked it up, leafed through it if only for a moment. I carried that newspaper the rest of the week, read the articles when I could no longer focus on my work. It was nice, but all good things must come to an end, I guess. The paper seems to always have the same front page, that format with its tiny images and drab colour scheme that make it difficult to distinguish one week from the next. Why take notice of something I’ve picked up and thoroughly digested before? I’m not saying you should change the front page format to what it used to be; instead I just want you to know the impact it had on me. It is something I will always remember about the university, a fond memory of a time that seemed to slip though my fingers. This new front page reminds me of life, nothing can remain constant, everything changes for the better or worse. I will eventually graduate for the third time, and move on with my life. I will turn the front page that is my life, only this time, I’ll be writing the stories.

Sincerely,

Cale Bergmann

VOL. 101 NO. 43 November 19, 2014

Comment

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Attendance policies harmful It’s none of your business whether or not I go to class Tom Ingram, staff

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n my first year at the University of Calling the roll is legally required after them. Recording and enforcing And while public schools are that if you need to attend class, you Manitoba, I encountered some- of public school teachers in Manitoba, attendance ensures that students are meant to enforce a minimum of edu- should do so without coercion. If thing I had never imagined before. and students of school age are being cared for by the teachers who cation—and are therefore compulsory you can do all the coursework withOn arriving at my first English class required to attend classes. This makes are responsible for them. It is note- for all school-aged children—a uni- out showing up, more power to you. and receiving a syllabus, I discovered sense. The purpose of a public school worthy that in high school, where versity is meant to provide something You’re responsible for the course that there was an attendance compo- system in a modern industrialized students begin to assume some of additional beyond the bare minimum. material either way, but how you deal nent to the course’s evaluation, to be nation is to set a lower bound on the responsibilities of adulthood There is no legal impetus for everyone with it is your own lookout. enforced by calling the roll on three education. (and some are in in Canada to get a university educaThere are exceptions to this, of random days throughout the term. In We as a society fact adults), the tion, and this is the way it should be. course. Labs obviously require attenIf you can other words, if you did not religiously have collectively practice of taking People learn in different ways. dance, though there is no reason to attend class, your grade could take decided that there attendance tends to Some people think of learning as a incorporate that into the grade since do all the a hit. social activity that requires some- attendance is a prerequisite for the are certain things fall off. coursework The official policy of the University everyone should The university is one explaining things in a way that rest of the evaluation. For rehearsals of Manitoba is that all students know and be able to a different kind of appeals to them. For them, rigorous in music or drama, it’s necessary for without are expected to attend all classes. do, and part of the place. While pub- attendance at lectures might be nec- everyone to attend every rehearsal, showing up, Enforcement of this policy is at the function of public lic school teachers essary to their education. and the entire group suffers if anyone For me, learning is a solitary is missing. discretion of course instructors. An schools is to proare responsible for more power instructor may choose to take atten- vide this instruction. their students, the activity that characteristically takes But for a lecture-style class, there to you academy has no place alone in a library when I’m sup- is no reason to ever evaluate people dance at every class and incorporate This is why, unlike equivalent duties posed to be doing something else. I’ve based on attendance or lack thereof. it into the grade; they may choose not in the vast majority to take attendance at all; or they may of past civilizations, toward its students, always thought that if you frequently Whether I show up to classes is none do any of a number of things between you can reasonably expect that any- most of whom are adults. Professors hear things in lectures that are new of the university’s business, as long as these two extremes.The attendance one you meet in Canada is literate. are not teachers and deans are not to you, you’re not reading enough I do high-quality coursework in an taking seemed strange to me then, This system only works if students principals. A course instructor stands books. Missing a lecture is not a big honest manner. Taking attendance and nearly four years later it still does. are on average and for the most part in a peculiar relationship to his or her deal for me, and it is a major inconve- in a university classroom is insulting Along with most of the people in that required to attend every class. students that is almost totally devoid nience when I am compelled to attend to students and counterproductive to class, I was old enough to vote, join the goals of higher education.

Another consideration that gets of authority. This is why a university classes that are not useful. the army, drink, and own firearms. less important as children progress education can be so intellectually As adults, university students And yet we apparently had to be man- through the school system is that, as freeing: you get mentorship without should be expected to take responsibility for their learning. This means aged like a gaggle of five-year-olds. minors, they need someone to look tutelage.

10 Comment

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

Responding to Poloz Students don’t need to work for free; they need to stand up for labour rights Paul Bell

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ast week Stephen Poloz, governor of the Bank of Canada, said to a House of Commons committee that out-of-work students should work for free to bolster their CVs. His remarks have since been condemned in the media, and for good reason.

Calling on unemployed young people to work for free is an abysmal response to what is a growing trend in Canada. It devalues who we are, what we contribute to the economy, and the experience we have. As a group we need to oppose the idea that we are easily taken advantage of, and this starts with connecting us with our identity as labourers.

Amidst the systematic culling of labour unions and activists over the past 35+ years it seems our ability to understand our identity as labourers has been constrained. How often do we think of ourselves as selling our labour as a product to a company?

Regardless of whether you work as a researcher, business analyst, nurse, or mechanic this is what we do when we work for a wage. We sell labour. We can’t go into a store and take something off the shelf without buying it. Why then should we be expected to offer our labour for free?

I find myself wanting to say that Poloz’s statements are naive and show no understanding of how working for free hurts students, but I have a hard time believing that this is the case. Someone in his position has to understand the economics of free labour and that it stands to benefit corporate Canada far more than the students who donate their labour in the hopes the experience might get them a job later on down the road.

What we really need are mechanisms and policies that end the barriers to finding employment, mechanisms such as apprenticeships,

work co-ops, paid internships, and junior positions that offer experience and training. As a recent grad I have seen very little along these lines, and it’s made it incredibly difficult to find work. The last thing I need right now is a corporation thinking they can use me as a free means of generating profit.

The cost of labour can greatly affect the profitability of a company, and high unemployment allows for lower wages to be offered to labourers.

Confronting low pay by employers is enough of an obstacle in our lives: we don’t need the abhorrent expectation that we are going to work for free.

By getting students to work for free under the guise of earning experience, companies are decreasing their costs while continuing to produce profits. This is exploitation. If Poloz does not realize this—or worse, if he thinks this is good—then his leadership of the Bank of Canada needs to be seriously brought into question.

So how do we tell Stephen Poloz that calling on us to exploit ourselves is unacceptable? While he has been scrutinized and chastised by the media for his comments, we cannot let that be our only response. If there has ever been a time for a resurgence of the labour movement this is it, and it needs to be driven by young people.

If you are a student and out of work, don’t accept Poloz’s bleak advice. Instead, take time to learn about what it means to be a labourer, and develop this identity. Connect with those around you who are in the same circumstances of unemployment or underemployment, and start discussing ways to overcome it. Stephen Poloz is wrong. Students don’t need to start working for free; they need to start standing up for their rights as labourers.

graphic by Bram Keast, staff

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

A mission 20 years in the making European Space Agency first conceived idea of landing on a comet in 1993 Chantelle Dubois, staff

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n Nov. 12, 2014 the European Space Agency (ESA) accomplished a very important first: they landed a probe on a comet. While it is common knowledge that the mission has been one of the most complex tasks attempted by mankind, what may not be so widely known is that Rosetta is a mission over 20 years in the making.

The Rosetta mission was first proposed to ESA’s Science Program Committee in 1993. The mission would serve as part of the Horizon 2000 program, a science program operated by the space agency from 1985 to 2000. Other missions that have been part of this program include the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory to study the Sun, the The Rosetta mission took over 10 years before it finally landed on a comet Cluster satellite mission which used four satellites to monitor solar wind was named Philae, after the Philae probe was ready for launch. The origiand the Earth’s magnetosphere, obelisk in Egypt. Both the Rosetta nal launch date was for January 2003 and XMM-Newton, which is an stone and the Philae obelisk helped but a failed Ariane rocket launch the on-Earth observatory to study soft Egyptologists translate hieroglyph- month before pushed the date back.

X-rays which are produced by form- ics to give insight into the ancient Finally, on March 2, 2004 the probe ing stars and galaxy clusters. way of life. European Space Agency was launched into Earth’s orbit.

The Rosetta probe was named scientists hope that studying a comet The time it took for Rosetta to in honour of the Rosetta stone, the will give us insight into the origins of reach comet 67P was nearly equal to the time it took to build the spacecraft. ancient Egyptian tablet famous the universe. for its inscriptions in hieroglyphics It took 10 years from the proposal For a year, the probe followed and Greek. The lander of the probe acceptance to completion before the Earth’s orbit around the Sun before

graphic by Scott Ford, staff

looping around the Earth for a gravityassisted swing towards Mars. This gravity assist took place on March 4, 2005.

In February 2007 Rosetta reached Mars, and another gravity assist was performed to slingshot it back towards Earth, coming back to the planet’s orbit in November of the same year. This gravity assist helped the probe pass the orbit of Mars.

In November 2009, Rosetta would

make its last flyby of Earth, finally on its way towards Comet 67P. In May 2011, the space probe went into hibernation mode, waking up 3 years later in January 2014.

Months later, in August 2014, Rosetta finally rendezvoused with comet 67P, and after over two months would land the Philae probe onto its surface.

Perhaps showing its age, the Rosetta probe uses two RTX2010 processors – a 16-bit, 8MHz processor. The 80c3x microcontroller is also used, which operates with 256 bytes of RAM. To compare, the Snapdragon 801 quad-core processor used in the Samsung S5 smartphone is a 32-bit chip and has a speed of up to 2.5 GHz/ core. The S5 also has 2GB of RAM. For perspective, 2.5GHz is 2,500 MHz and 2GB is 2 billion bytes.

The Rosetta mission accomplished something amazing: sending a space probe to land on a moving comet for the first time in human history.

Equally impressive is the amount of planning that went into this mission, and the amount of time it took to reach its final destination.

Medicinal and hallucinogenic plants Course profile: BIOL 3290 Jeremiah Yarmie, staff

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he course “Medicinal and some historical context to the utilizaHallucinogenic Plants” is tion of plants medicinally, primarily, described as “a botanical and histori- but also in terms of their psychoactive cal survey of medicinal, hallucino- properties [ . . . ] the use of psychoacgenic and poisonous plants used in tive plants actually has a very interestvarious cultures.” BIOL 3290 catches ing cultural component to it, which I the eye of many science students at really emphasize in the course,” said the University of Manitoba because Kenkel. of its unique subject matter.

“Most people tend to think of The course is organized and taught [psychoactive plants] purely as by department of biological sciences entertainment.” professor Norm Kenkel. The course The course looks at the anthropowas first offered in 2006 in the for- logical influence of these particular mer department of botany. Kenkel plants. “There is a commonality there; began painstaking work to develop it’s interesting. Different cultures the course in 2003, at the encourage- and societies use [psychoactive subment of his wife. stances] for exactly the same purposes The material covered in the course – to divine illness, to communicate was consolidated by Kenkel at the with the gods or the ancestors or the time of its fruition. future [ . . . ] And one can see why “I decided to endeavour to pull it – you’re entering into a completely difall together, and it was a lot of work, ferent mind space,” said Kenkel. but [the course] has proven to be, as The course extends its gaze across I anticipated, exceedingly popular,” the world and far back in time. said Kenkel.

“The whole issue of why hallucino“It was impossible to find a text. gens are frowned upon by Western I read hundreds and hundreds of society is a really interesting quesarticles, and acquired quite a large tion [ . . . ] I believe, personally, it library in order to put these notes has, probably, a historical legacy to together. Nobody has compiled this some extent. Certainly, another facinformation before in the way that tor that was hugely contributing was I have, which is rather surprising,” the 1960s cultural revolution,” said said Kenkel.

Kenkel.

“I had a lot of fun with it,” he added.

We endeavour to understand “What the course tries to do is give things better through science. The

knowledge shared in the course about these plants allows us to better respect them.

The use of plants is particularly pertinent to medicine. “The main reason I did it was because of the lack of recognition by most people that plants still remain exceedingly important as medicines. That’s not fully appreciated,” said Kenkel.

“The search for cancer drugs is really fascinating [ . . . ] The fact is that some of the most important recent cancer drugs are derived from plants,” said Kenkel.

An example of such a cancer drug is the chemotherapeutic drug paclitaxel, also known by the trade name Taxol. Taxol is derived from bark of the pacific yew tree.

Medicinal and Hallucinogenic Plants was recently featured in Huffington Post Canada list of the coolest classes offered at Canadian post-secondary institutions.

Medicinal and Hallucinogenic Plants does not have any prerequisite courses. Enrolment in the course requires at least 30 credit hours or special consent from the department of biological sciences. graphic by Evan Tremblay, Staff

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Science & Technology

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

Science media roundup: YouTube

Spotlighting the Uof M Biomedical Engineering Society

Profiling vlogs and channels that make science accessible

Emerging interdisciplinary student group spreads the word about the field

Jeremiah Yarmie, staff

Chantelle Dubois, staff

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ince its creation in 2005, by natural selection. “Without YouTube has been a staple enter- Evolution” won Le Page a British tainment website. Through their national short film competition run streaming services, one can find by the Guardian. videos on anything from cats to the Veritasium is a science video blog latest sports highlights. created by Derek Muller, who has a YouTube can also be an excellent PhD in physics education research. educational tool. Sal Khan’s website, His thesis showed that individuals Khan Academy, gained momentum were more likely to learn a difficult through the accessibility of physics concept after viewing others YouTube. With over 19 million fail at it first. The results of Muller’s members, Khan Academy’s success PhD research are reflected in his is an example of YouTube’s capacity channel. Many Veritasium videos for being an educational resource. involve addressing scientific topics There are many YouTube by first presenting related popular channels d e d ic a t e d t o misconceptions. The concepts communicating science in fun and covered in the channel are as broad quirky ways. as they are interesting. Muller MinutePhysics is a YouTube travels the world and provides channel created by Henry Reich. demonstrations to add context to The channel addresses physics topics about our universe, which concepts with videos that are range from the world’s roundest about a minute in length. The object to the northern lights.

Myles Power is a chemist and videos employ the use of “timelapsed drawings,” typically of skeptic from England whose stick figures, depicting interesting channel, powerm1985, is partially physics concepts. The videos are dedicated to the destruction of illustrated by Reich himself. The pseudoscience. Power's videos most popular MinutePhysics video, have targeted movements that he which has over nine million views, believes employ pseudoscience, addresses the collision between including AIDS denialism, the an immovable object and an 9/11 truth movement, and antiunstoppable force. Other topics vaccination beliefs. Power has covered in a minute or so include enjoys his work, too. In his videos, quantum tunnelling, cosmic he has demonstrated the fun science inflation, and why there is no such can be, notably by playing with thing as pink light. Reich’s second ferrofluid, a magnetized liquid. channel, MinuteEarth, addresses Power also tackles interesting the science of our planet in the scientific phenomenon, recording same short manner. his own reactions to explain the AsapSCIENCE is a Canadian science of hot peppers and wasabi. channel created by Mitchell Moffit Finally, the University of and Gregory Brown. Equipped Manitoba’s own YouTube channel with a white board and a charming is worth mentioning. The Ask voiceover, their channel focuses on An Expert video series addresses addressing science topics in a quick a variety of topics, including and snappy manner, much like scientific ones, with the help of U MinutePhysics. Some of the topics of M researchers and academics. that the channel has addressed Some scientific topics include a include what would happen if we discussion on the importance of stopped sleeping, and the science flu shots with physician Dr. John of orgasms. The channel has Embil, and an explanation on collaborated with Bill Nye on a why we treat icy roads with salt by video about humanity’s ability chemistry professor Philip Hultin. to stop an impending asteroid By exploring what science collision, and with the CBC on communication channels YouTube a series about how Olympian has to offer, you can learn a little bodies have changed since 1924, bit about our universe in many which aired during the 2014 Sochi different ways. At the very least, Olympics. you can procrastinate a bit more Sa l ly L e Page is a educationally! interdisciplinary biosciences doctoral student at the University of Oxford. Le Page’s YouTube channel, Shed Science, covers many quirky and interesting biology topics. Her video “Without Evolution” depicts Le Page trying to, unsuccessfully, explain many biological concepts without referencing evolution

iomedical engineering is the The field is very interdisciplinary. process of applying engineer- Although I would say that probing concepts to problems in medi- ably 95 per cent of our members are cine and biology. It is an emerging engineers, the group is definitely industry in Canada, as fields of willing to grow,” said Essex. study begin to overlap and evolve University of Manitoba’s into their own industries.

Biomedical Engineering Society A student group on campus is free to join, and so far the group strives to connect U of M students has approximately 100 members. to this industry by providing opporOne of the ways that UMBMES tunities to attend tours in local reaches out to students is through laboratories, attend biomedical their annual outreach event. The focused events, and meet profes- event provides both an industry sionals in the field. and research perspective, while also Olivia Essex, a mechanical being engaging and informative. engineering student completing her During this event, members of the final year of her undergrad program, student group give presentations to is the president of the University the first-year students explaining of Manitoba’s Biomedical what biomedical engineering is and Engineering Society (UMBMES). the different aspects of it. This is She founded the group after finding followed by an industry tour of a that her program lacked a strong facility in Manitoba, and then prefocus in biomedical engineering. sentations by professors from the U She wanted to find opportunities to of M who are currently doing their get involved in the field. Her solu- research in the biomedical field. tion was to start a student group. The event also includes a handsIn 2012, she founded UMBMES. on biomedical tutorial and design “You can approach [biomedical challenge. engineering] from an electrical, The University of Manitoba’s computer, biosystems, and mechan- Biomedical Engineering Society ical engineering background. You recently took 16 students on a tour can also be from the biology, to Monteris Medical. At the facility, physics, or chemistry department. students were able to learn about Those in medicine are also involved. and see firsthand the MRI-guided,

laser-based neurosurgical devices Monteris has developed to treat brain tumours.

This year is the first time the student group has taken on a project.

This project was commissioned by the Rehab Centre for Children and consists of redesigning the mechanism commonly used for articulation in ankle foot orthoses (AFO).

Essex explained that the AFO is a brace which prevents plantar flexion of a patient’s foot, for individuals who experience foot drop. Foot drop is a condition where a person is unable to lift the front part of their foot while walking. The AFO limits plantar flexion while allowing dorsiflexion so that the patient is able to walk without tripping over or dragging their feet.

Students in UMBMES are working on this project voluntarily during their free time.

Essex hopes that the student group can enable students from all disciplines to become interested in and get involved with the exciting, fast-growing biomedical field.

For more information on UMBMES, visit umbmes.com or email president.umbmes@gmail.com

Olivia Essex (second left) and co-founder Cameron MacGregor (first right) help students build a DIY pulse oximeter during UMBMES’ annual outreach event.

Photo by Ahmad Byagowi

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

illustration by carolyne Kroeker

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

Arkells ‘Come To Light’ With Latest Album Hamilton rockers Arkells slated to play Winnipeg during Canadian tour Daniel Montanino

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oming off of the summer release Money,” juxtaposes Max Kerman’s of their newest album, High raspy and powerful vocals with a folkNoon, Hamilton band Arkells is set inspired instrumental sound. to stop in Winnipeg during their 12 city Canadian tour.

Featuring 11 songs, including The album boasts a singles “Come to Light” and “Never roster of songs that Thought That This Would Happen,” High Noon is comprised of pieces that are dexterous and are upbeat, energetic, and catchy – differing in sound, and is bound to have listeners pressing repeat. which not only keeps The album boasts a roster of songs that are dexterous and differ in sound, things fresh during which not only keeps things fresh each listen, but also during each listen, but also shows the versatility of the musicians. shows the versatility The piano-driven “Hey Kids!” is of the musicians reminiscent of 70s rock-and-roll style music, whereas “11:11” employs a more modern sound.

Then there are songs like “Dirty Packed with infectious lyrics, a Blonde,” featuring a progressive spirited rhythm, and lively piano riffs, sound through the combination of High Noon will attract new listeners 80s synth pop and present-day rock – for the Arkells while encouraging blending old and new styles together current supporters to revisit past to create a melodious track. projects.

As a whole, it is easy for the listener Over the years they have been to see just how musically inspired the together, the Arkells have been recalbum is. High Noon is an amalgama- ognized for their talent, decorated tion of past, present, and future styles with two Juno award wins. Their first of music all tightly compiled together. Juno award came in 2010 for “New High Noon displays its multi- Group Of The Year.” In 2012, they dimensionality from its first notes won again at the Junos, this time for forward. The opening track, “Fake “Group Of The Year.”

photo by Brooks Reynolds

A Canadian project from its incep- date will be a must-see show for fans tion, High Noon was written by the of high velocity music accompanied band in their hometown of Hamilton, by lyrics that demand to be sung. For Ontario. This winter, tour will bring listeners of energetic and melodic the Arkells back to Winnipeg for the music, High Noon is definitely an first time since July 19, 2014, when album worth checking out. they performed at the MTS SuperSpike volleyball tournament.

The Arkells will be in town perThe Arkells’ upcoming Winnipeg forming at the Garrick Centre (330

Garry Street) Feb. 28, 2015. Tickets are on sale now and are available in store at Music Trader, located at 97 Osborne Street, as well as online at www.unionevents.com. $1 from each ticket sold will be donated to Partners in Health, an organization working to battle the Ebola epidemic in West Africa.

Musical rewiring: Cold Specks Soul singer-songwriter experiments with sophomore album, Neuroplasticity Ian T.D. Thomson, staff

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ailing from Toronto, Al Spx— in London,” explained Spx to the better known as Cold Specks— Manitoban. expands the possibilities of what a “It was my friend [British prosinger-songwriter can be. Coinciding ducer] Rob Ellis who suggested his with the release of her second album, friend’s cottage in Wick.”

Neuroplasticity, on Aug. 26 of this year, For three months, off and on Spx and her five-piece band will be during England’s winter, the singerperforming her soulful music at the songwriter found herself heading to Park Theatre on Nov. 30. the cottage to work on songs for her Cold Speck’s debut album, I sophomore album.

Predict a Graceful Expulsion (2012), “The time I was there was entirely quickly put Spx and her R&B- devoted to creating. I’d wake up and inspired indie rock music on the make breakfast. I’d then hop on the map. Singles such as “Blank Maps” old piano or pick up my guitar and and “Holland,” which primarily focus make things happen,” said Spx. on Spx’s soulful voice, soon caught Sophomore albums have a reputhe attention of music critics across tation for making or breaking the Canada, earning her a spot on the continued success of a popular art2012 Polaris Music Prize short-list. ist. While a band such as Vampire With extensive North American Weekend may rise to the occasion and European touring spanning the (see 2011’s Contra), other acts such two years since the debut’s release, as Best Coast may crack under the Cold Specks gained an international pressure and release an album that audience. fails to capture the imagination in For Cold Speck’s sophomore the way its predecessor did. album, she found solitude in a cotThis has lead artists to feel prestage in Wick, England. After time sured when constructing the everoff between a North American and important second album. Cold European tour, Spx found it difficult Specks rose to the occasion with ease. to get the song-writing sparks flying.

“I think that’s only natural. I don’t “I’d been staying in London at the think there’s any harm in a little prestime and wanted some space to write sure,” said Spx to the Manitoban. songs. I was finding this impossible “I can only make the best music I

can and hope the rest works itself out.”

The result is Neuroplasticity: ten tracks that fuse R&B, indie rock, and soul. Although Spx’s voice remains at the forefront of the music, one is immediately made aware of the album’s experimental instrumentation.

Tracks such as “Absisto” exemplify the continuation of Cold Specks’ music. Featuring a distorted piano riff and a wall of delayed electric guitars, the ear is immediately drawn in by an eerie synth line that would feel at home on an Air or Queens of the Stone Age record.

Cold Specks made a clear statement when “Absisto” was released as Neuroplasticity’s first single. With a new sound, Spx wanted an album title that communicated the change in her musical style.

“I had realized that the record sounded quite different than the first [record] and so I wanted a title that would reflect change. I felt as though a creative rewiring process had taken place,” said Spx. “Neuroplasticity is the process by which the brain rewires itself. I thought it was a fitting title. It implies an aesthetic change.”

photo by Steve Gullick

The Winnipeg Folk Festival presents Cold Specks on Nov. 30 at the Park Theatre (698 Osborne Street.)

Tickets are $20 and are available through Ticketmaster or the Winnipeg Folk Festival Music Store.

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Arts & Culture

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

Sitting down with the Strumbellas The Strumbellas talk touring, their latest album, and upcoming ventures Lauren Siddall, staff

photo by heather pollock

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oronto-based band, the Strumbellas, have seen massive success this past year. Between their Juno win for “Folk and Traditional Album of the Year,” their Sirius Indie Award for “Folk/Roots Album of the Year,” and being long-listed for the Polaris prize, this band is dominating the music scene.

Although their latest album,

We Still Move on Dance Floors, has received the best feedback, lead vocalist Simon Ward says either of their albums could have received such a decorated response.

“Some of the songs on this record were actually written before the first EP (The Strumbellas, 2009) even came out. So it’s kind of weird because I don’t see that we’ve progressed really,

in terms of the songs we write,” Ward During their performance of make.” said to the Manitoban.

“The Fire” at the Park Theatre, the Though his song-writing process “I think you could take songs from Strumbellas illustrated their wide may be unorthodox—citing songthe last record and interchange it with musical scope – opting to play the writing locations such as in the baththe other record and you wouldn’t number acoustically and unplugged room, brushing his teeth, or watching even miss a beat.” to showcase the strong lyrical and Naked Gun in the tour van for the The major difference with their vocal abilities of Ward. millionth time—writing is where new album is the larger producPaired with the intimacy of the Ward’s true passion lies; he is always tion and the new producer, Ryan Park Theatre—though it would have looking forward to the next song he Hadlock, brought in to pilot the been brilliant in any venue—the bal- will write.

“What excites me is having a new project. Hadlock—producer of the lad showcases the versatility fuelling Lumineers’ eponymous, chart top- the Strumbellas success, both in stu- melody to make a new song; that’s ping album — brought a bigger, fuller dio and on tour this year. what excites me the most. The other sound to the six-piece band.

Despite their extremely lucra- songs were written and they were We Still Move on Dance Floors tive year on the road, including recorded and they’re on a record. ranges from the rocking and rollicking performances and workshops at the But for me, the excitement is having “Did I Die” or “Home Sweet Home,” to Winnipeg Folk Festival, Ward looks something new come up and being the quieter, more intimate “The Fire” forward to their upcoming break and able to work on something that you returning to his favoured endeavour hope is better,” said Ward, grinning – the latter favourited by Ward. from ear to ear.

“I think my favourite song—I don’t – writing.

“Over the break, I’m going to try “I think for me, my favourite know if it’s a favourite song—but my favourite thing is to play a slow song and write and get this next record thing is writing music. I like being in a sit-down theatre vibe. That’s my ready to go so we can record it and by myself, in my room, writing music. favourite musical experience overtop release it as soon as possible. That’s all That’s my number one favourite thing the fast stuff. Don’t get me wrong, I that’s on my mind right now – mak- to do in the world, next to being with love playing to people who are danc- ing the best record we can possibly my family.” ing and shouting along, but I love to play a slow, intimate song.”

Comfort food for thought Chew restaurant owners open up the Store Next Door Michelle Saromo, volunteer staff

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ven before popular restaurant Chew opened on Waterloo Street in the River Heights neighbourhood in 2013, owners Kristen Chemerika-Lew and Kyle Lew had always wanted a store right beside their restaurant.

“We called it a ‘storestaurant,’” Chemerika-Lew said while kneading dough at their new bakery/espresso bar/food/cookware shop located right beside Chew. “We didn’t think it was going to happen. We rented the place next door, we opened [Chew . . . ] and then the hair salon moved out. So we figured, why not?”

In place of that hair salon stands The Store Next Door. The new store opened on Oct. 27, and while business is still pretty quiet on this side, it won’t be long before it becomes a bustling neighbourhood meeting place.

It has a casual, cozy atmosphere that gives off the feeling of being at a friend’s place (albeit a distinctly epicurean friend’s place). A wooden

that are a little more comfortable and casual and a little more reflective of who Kyle and I are.”

The couple have a global set of culinary influences.

“Kyle’s dad’s family is Chinese, my dad’s family is Jewish. We’re classically trained French chefs, as is our full-time pastry chef, Jamie,” said Chemerika-Lew. On that particular visit, she told the Manitoban that they were selling bialys—her Jewish grandfather’s photo by Michelle Saromo, favourite pastry—for the first time at communal table, soft lighting, and the bakery: “It’s like a cousin to the open shelves of foods make the inti- bagel, except instead of having a hole mate space feel warm and inviting. in the centre, the centre is actually Chemerika-Lew describes The filled with good stuff, so things like Store Next Door as being “a little poppy seeds and caramelized onion more accessible for families and and cream cheese.”

Their most popular bakery item? people just wanting a quick bite, a cup of coffee, [or] somewhere quiet So far, it is the savoury brie and chives to sit where you might not feel as scones, a hearty upgrade from the comfortable doing that in a sit-down typical run-of-the-mill cheese scone. restaurant [like Chew] in the middle They are—as Chemerika-Lew puts it— “a surprise sleeper hit.” of the morning.”

You can also expect to see a lot Although there aren’t very many more of the classic comfort food regular items at the shop yet, accordfavourites at the Store. ing to Chemerika-Lew, “We’re hop“Our prepared foods are a com- ing to find our niche as a comfy bination of either the things we did neighbourhood bakery.”

In the heart of the neighbourfor catering clients that aren’t on our regular menu, or the things we did hood, right beside their already wellfor ourselves and our family and our received bistro, no doubt they’ll soon friends that all said, ‘This is really find it. good, you should make it in your restaurant!’ Except we don’t really have The Store Next Door is located at the restaurant that sells the chicken 532 Waterloo Street, beside Chew. shepherd’s pie,” Chemerika-Lew laughed. “So it’s nice to do things

VOL. 101 NO. 43 November 19, 2014

Arts & Culture

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The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared Successful Swedish film makes its way to Cinematheque Ian T.D. Thomson, staff

“If you want to kill me, you better lord and a slew of criminals. comparison, Canada and the United hurry, because I’m a hundred years The story also explores the greater States did not make it into the top 23 old” – Allan Karlsson. historical context of the centenar- in this category.

Best-selling Swedish novel The ian’s life. As a man involved with the James Borja, host of “Ultrasonic 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed development of explosives through Film,” one of Canada’s longest runOut of the Window and Disappeared the 20th century, Karlsson found ning community radio film shows tells the tale of centenarian Allan himself in comedic situations with (live every Thursday at 10 p.m. on Karlsson and his wild travels outside important historic figures, such as UMFM 101.5), hypothesizes a differhis retirement home. With a Swedish Joseph Stalin, Winston Churchill, and ence in business models between the film adaptation of the same name, The Harry Truman. Karlsson was present continents to account for the differ100-Year-Old Man will be screened for some large historical events, such ences in attendance of the film. at Winnipeg’s Cinematheque later as the testing of the atomic bomb. In “This is certainly going to be a this month. this way, The 100-Year-Old Man is generalization, because of course a Written by journalist Jonas reminiscent of 1994 Academy Award lot of big budget Hollywood films Jonasson, the story has subsequently Winner Forrest Gump. do very well in Europe [ . . . But] I been published in 38 countries in “Allan Karlsson is doing what many think European audiences embrace several different languages. As his of us westerners should do. Do not a lot of different types of films. And debut novel, The 100-Year-Old Man worry about the future, use your gut I think we do [too], but I think we’re Who Climbed Out of the Window and instinct and do not fret over yesterday’s faced with a corporate business model Disappeared has sold over six million troubles,” explained Herngren. that perhaps Europeans filmmakers copies worldwide.

The 100-Year-Old Man was released are not so controlled by,” explained “It is always difficult to adapt a in Sweden on Christmas of 2013. The Borja to the Manitoban. book to film, but I could not resist adventure-comedy has subsequently With a reputation for international The 100-Year-Old Man when I got the set record numbers in its homeland. eclecticism, the Cinematheque is the chance,” said director Felix Herngren, Ranked number one in the box office only theatre in Winnipeg currently in a press release. for 2013, The 100-Year-Old Man is on planning to screen the Swedish success.

“It is a delightfully twisted story track to overtake The Girl with the “The Cinematheque strives to with rich characters, and situational Dragon Tattoo as the top-grossing bring in international and indepencomedy at its best.” film of all time in Sweden. dent films of a high artistic calibre Uninterested in his upcoming The Scandinavian film has yet to which do not play here otherwise. of money,” said Barber.

“We are screening films for the love birthday celebration, the 100-year-old mobilize a similar audience in North We chose this film based on its Allan Karlsson—as the long-winded America – despite its universal sub- artistic merit and critical acclaim,” of cinema. We get it.” title suggests—escapes through the ject matter. The demographics of Cinematheque program director window of his retirement home. After Sweden—25 per cent of their popu- Dave Barber told the Manitoban.

The 100-Year Old Man Who stumbling upon a briefcase full of lation fall over the age of 60, placing “Large venues such as Silver City Climbed Out of the Window and drug money, the old man finds him- the country 8th in the world—may are set up to cater to Hollywood and Disappeared will be playing at self on the run from an angry drug account for the film’s popularity. In whatever will make the most amount Cinematheque (100 Arthur Street) on

photos provided by mongrel media

Nov. 23, 28, 29, 30, and Dec. 4. For more information on shows and show times at the Cinematheque, visit winnipeg filmgroup.com/cinematheque

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

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Developing into stars Junior football’s impact on Kienan LaFrance and Alex Vitt

Dunking and dominating Men sweep Brandon, first in Canada West to score 100 in a game

Mike Still, staff

Mike Still, staff

Men’s basketball

photos provided by Bison Sports

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laying junior football can serve onship in his senior season in 2008. made names for themselves locally. as a springboard towards a uniLaFrance’s abilities as a ball car- Vitt was on top of the Prairie versity career for a number of play- rier led to interest from universities Football Conference in receiving ers, and with running back Kienan such as Alberta and Simon Fraser. yards during his final season, while LaFrance and receiver Alex Vitt, However, LaFrance ultimately LaFrance led the Rifles in rushing that has been exactly the case. chose to take the junior football during both of his two years with Vitt’s path started in community route as well. the team.

After impressing in junior, the football with the Greendell Falcons, and then the St. Vital Mustangs. two local products were recruited to With the Mustangs, Vitt won “I think that in terms the U of M, where they are now in two Midget Football League of their fourth year of eligibility, and of goals, you need Manitoba championships, includhave put up big numbers in 2014. ing being named MVP in the 2008 LaFrance played in all eight to set mini goals final. regular season games, finishing in order to get to After finishing off his midget second in the Canada West confootball eligibility in the 2008 sea- those major ones” ference in rushing yards, with 785, son, Vitt opted to attend both a while Vitt played in seven of eight – Kienan LaFrance, CIS and Canadian Junior Football games, logging 489 receiving yards, League football camp, with the good for eighth in the conference running back, University of Manitoba Bisons and second on the team.

Manitoba Bisons and Winnipeg Rifles, respectively.

“I think that in terms of goals, Ultimately, Vitt chose the Rifles. you need to set mini goals in order “Coming out of high school, I to get to those major ones. I figured was small, and I wasn’t very fast, so “[Playing with Sturgeon that [junior football] was the best I wouldn’t have been anything on Heights] was my second year of stepping stone in order to prepare the Bisons,” Vitt said. “I took the real competitive football, where I’m myself for [the CIS],” LaFrance Rifles, because I just wanted to play applying to get better, and play to said. and develop there.” be the best,” LaFrance said. “I felt Both players made an intelliLaFrance’s football journey like [CIS football] kind of wasn’t a gent decision to hone their skills started relatively late. He didn’t good fit, to go and compete against in junior football, instead of moving strap on the pads for the first time guys who had been playing for 10 directly to CIS football, and their until age 15, with the St. James years.” patience and hard work has paid off.

Rods. After a year of playing While with the Rifles—Vitt With one year of eligibility remaincommunity ball, he moved onto from 2009-11 and LaFrance from ing for each, the best is likely yet to Sturgeon Heights High School, 2009-10—both players earned come for LaFrance and Vitt. where he won a Winnipeg High CJFL All Canadian honours School Football League champi- (LaFrance in 2010, Vitt in 2011), and

up everything for all of the other The University of Manitoba guards.” men’s basketball team continued Saturday’s rematch was never their hot start to the 2014-15 sea- close. Manitoba led by 10 after the son, grabbing a pair of wins over first quarter, and then erupted for 34 the weekend against the Brandon points in the second quarter to pull Bobcats. Manitoba led early and away. Five different players scored often in both games, taking it to in double figures for Manitoba, the winless Bobcats. AJ Basi led and Anders was a phenom on the the team in points in both games, boards, picking up a double-double, recording 25 on Friday and 19 on with 14 rebounds and 10 points in the 102-67 shellacking.

Saturday.

Friday’s game was the closer of the two. The Bisons took a 24-12 Women’s basketball lead into the second quarter, but The women didn’t fare as well Brandon was able to fight back, against the Bobcats, falling 71-47 using their speed to get a number of on Friday, and 66-56 on Saturday. good looks. The Bobcats outscored Vanessa DeVries was the leadManitoba 27-15 ing scorer for in the second Manitoba in frame, and the t he open ing Manitoba led by two teams went matchup, with 10 after the first into the half tied 12 points, while up at 39.

Robyn Eyer put quarter, and The second up a team-high then erupted for half was a differ11 points the folent story entirely, lowing night.

34 points in the as the Bisons outWhen asked scored Brandon what the team second quarter 54-39 over the needs to do to to pull away final two quarimprove going ters, securing forward, head the 93-78 win. coach Michele Basi scored four three-pointers in Hynes said they need to display the second half, and credited his more “effort and passion.” open looks to the play of the team’s power forwards, specifically Wyatt Both basketball teams will now Anders, who was aggressive in the travel to take on the Calgary paint all game long.

Dinos, on Friday, Nov. 21, and “It was for sure a product of Saturday, Nov. 22. Women’s what Wyatt [Anders] was doing action will be at 7 p.m. and 6 down low,” Basi said. “Him get- p.m., respectively, while the men ting a couple of easy buckets opened will duel at 9 p.m., and 8 p.m.

photo by Shawn Coates

VOL. 101 NO. 43 November 19, 2014

Sports

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Treading in the right direction The story of fourth-year Bison swimmer Dillon Perron Mike Still, staff

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illon Perron is no stranger to the pool. The native of Lac du Bonnet started swimming when he was six years old, and moved to Winnipeg in grade nine in order to train with the Manta Swim Club at Pan Am Pool. He stayed with Manta until he graduated from high school, moving onto the Bisons from there.

The training schedule for Perron during high school was fairly intense.

He would go to the pool every evening after class for three hours, and participated in morning sessions four times a week.

While he was able to balance school and training fairly well in high school, his first year of university was a larger adjustment.

“My first year at the university was very tough,” Perron said. “It was sort of a new adjustment for me to actually have school with that regime, and that first year didn’t work out the best for me.”

Perron ended up taking a full year off from school, which resulted in a loss of two years of eligibility, as players needed to have 18 credit hours from the previous year to continue

competing at meets, which Perron didn’t have.

Despite losing his eligibility for an extended period of time, Perron continued to hone his craft at the university.

The winter of 2012 was Perron’s last semester as an ineligible swimmer, and once he returned to the university circuit in the fall of that year, records began to drop “During that time I was just swimming with the club at the university,” Perron said. “Nothing majorly changed for me, except that I couldn’t swim at university meets.”

The winter of 2012 was Perron’s last

photo provided by Bison Sports

semester as an ineligible swimmer, and once he returned to the university circuit in the fall of that year, records began to drop.

Perron started off by placing first in the 50- (28.05 seconds), and 100metre breaststroke (1:01.32 seconds) at the 2012 Canada Cup, held in November of that year – a score that shattered both the Bisons’ and provincial records. He also qualified for the CIS swimming championships that season.

Perron credited his attendance

at the 2012 Olympic trials, held in March in Montreal, as one of the big factors that changed his mindset once he returned to competition in the fall.

“That sort of opened me up to a whole new world of swimming,” Perron said of the event.

“I’d already been swimming for 15 or 16 years at that point, but I’d never really been to a meet quite as emotional as that. As focused as I was with the sport at that time, it was even more so after that.”

Perron has kept his drive going

ever since. He’s had a number of notable performances, including placing third in the 100-metre breaststroke at the 2014 CIS championships. His bronze medal was the first hardware for a Bison at the national competition since 2006.

Perron plans to continue swimming after his university career ends next season, with the ultimate goal of making a national team. Considering the adversity that he has already battled through, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him continue to surge forward.

Bison Briefs Hockey and volleyball David Grad, staff

Men’s hockey

The men’s hockey team took on the Calgary Dinos at home. Entering the matchup, the Dinos were sitting in second place in the Canada West, three spots ahead of the Bisons.

Manitoba played an excellent game defensively in a 4-1 victory Friday night. Manitoba kept the Dinos to 20 shots and limited threatening scoring chances. Deven Dubyk stood tall in net yet again, and the Bisons received contributions on the score sheet from Reid Gow, Aaron Lewadniuk, Justin Augert, and Jesse Paradis.

Coach Mike Sirant noted that his team had a strong team defensive game and played smart positionally.

When asked about how much time his team has to celebrate a big 4-1 win against Calgary, Sirant was quick to answer, “30 minutes. Very little time to enjoy this, it’s back to business to prepare for tomorrow.”

The Bisons were unable to carry the momentum from Friday night into Saturday’s game, losing 3-0 to the Dinos, despite managing 25 shots on net.

The Bisons will now head to UBC to take on the Thunderbirds on Nov. 22 and 23.

Women’s hockey

The women’s hockey team wasn’t able to find success on the road

against the Dinos this weekend, losing Friday and Saturday night’s matchups 3-2 and 3-1, respectively.

Charity Price notched her second and third goals of the season on Friday night. The Bisons were in tough against a Calgary squad that has one of Canada’s top female players internationally, Hayley Wickenheiser.

Wickenheiser had two assists on Friday night and a goal and assist on Saturday night. Standout first-year Alanna Sharman scored the lone goal on Saturday against the Dinos.

Men’s volleyball

The men’s volleyball team was in tough against a strong Brandon squad on the road this weekend. Brandon beat the Bisons Friday night in three straight sets (22-25, 13-25, 22-25).

Devren Dear and Kenny Rooney led the Bison offence on Friday with 11 and nine kills, respectively. Libero Alex Strachan picked up 11 digs in the effort. The Bisons came out with a stronger effort on Saturday night in a tight five-set loss (26-28, 25-19, 23-25, 25-16, 8-15).

Luke Herr picked up a staggering 54 assists in Saturday nights effort, and Dear led the offence with 19 kills. Adam DeJonckheere had 16 kills, Rooney picked up 11 kills, and Strachan led the defensive effort with 17 digs.

Women’s volleyball

Continuing their tough first half stretch, the Bisons, looking to get above .500 before Christmas, split the weekend against the Bobcats.

Manitoba got off to a hot start on Friday night, beating the Bobcats in three straight sets (25-16, 25-23, 25-19).

Rachel Cockrell continues to light up her opponents, picking up 26 kills on the night. Brittany Habing had 41 assists, and the defence was led by Caleigh Dobie and first-year Kalena Schulz, with 17 and 15 digs, respectively.

The Bobcats responded on Saturday night, taking the match 1-3 (20-25, 25-21, 14-25, 25-27). Cockrell and Schulz led the offence with 17 and 10 kills, while Habing collected 31 assists and 14 digs. Dobie finished her weekend strong with 16 digs.

Captains Cockrell and Habing are still topping the leader boards in the Canada West. Cockrell leads the conference with the most kills, while Habing has the second most assists.

Also of note are Dobie, with the fourth best digs per set, and Schulz, with the third highest service aces per set.

Both volleyball teams return home this weekend, taking on Thompson Rivers on Nov. 21 and 22.

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Sports

VOL. 101 NO. 43 November 19, 2014

The best in the Canada West Bison football upsets Calgary, wins first Hardy Cup title since 2007 Mike Still, staff

T

he Hardy Cup has made its Both offences stalled until a way back to the province of missed Manitoba field goal less than Manitoba. On Saturday afternoon, two minutes into the second gave the University of Manitoba Bison Calgary some life. football team dethroned the Calgary Dinos at the top of the Canada Manitoba’s defence West conference, winning 27-15 at McMahon Stadium. The Hardy shut down the Cup win was the Bisons’ first since 2007, when they went on to win the highest scoring Vanier Cup. team in the nation The victory was also Manitoba’s first-ever post-season win on the in the final two road against Calgary, who had won quarters, forcing five six straight conference titles heading into the weekend matchup. more turnovers The turnover battle made the difference in this one, as Calgary conceded 10, compared to none from The Dinos retook the ball after Manitoba. The Bisons’ secondary had a failed 37-yard attempt from Ryan arguably their best performance of Jones, and capitalized with a five-play, the year, holding Canada West MVP 90-yard drive of their own. Rashaun Andrew Buckley to 224 yards passing, Simonise hauled in a pass on a slant along with four interceptions – the route, and utilized his breakaway same number of picks Buckley threw speed to tie the game up at 14, on a over the entirety of the regular season. 42-yard reception.

The game would remain tied Summary for less than four minutes, as Things got off to a shaky start for Manitoba secured the lead for good, Manitoba, as Calgary running back on a 17-yard Jones field goal. The Mercer Timmis shot through the line three points came off of the secfor an 81-yard rushing touchdown on ond forced turnover by the Bisons, the first play from scrimmage. as Colton Farago stripped Dino Despite going down early, returner Michael Klukas, and Brett Manitoba stayed composed, tying MacFarlane recovered the ball on the things up on the shoulders of their Calgary 10-yard line. defence. Jonathan Jones jumped a The fumble recover y by route in the flats, taking it back 20 MacFarlane marked the first of four yards to the house to tie the game consecutive drives where the Dinos up, less than five minutes in. turned the ball over. Backup QB Eric The Bisons grabbed the momen- Dzwilewski failed on a third down tum after the pick six. They took their conversion, two straight intercepfirst lead of the game with 7:47 left tions, thrown by Buckley, followed in the first quarter. Kienan LaFrance – the first to Tyler Fong, and the secfound a hole, made a few defenders ond to Cam Teschuk, who stole the miss, and rumbled 40 yards to the ball from the outstretched hands of endzone, capping off a three-play, Simonise.

75-yard drive.

The Fong interception resulted

photos by David Moll

in a touchdown for the Bisons, as QB Jordan Yantz found Zach Regert from seven yards out on the ensuing drive, to take a 10-point lead heading into the break.

The second half produced a total of just four points, with a single from the Dinos, and a field goal from Manitoba to round out the scoring.

Manitoba’s defence shut down the highest scoring team in the nation in the final two quarters, forcing five more turnovers, including two failed third down conversions, a fumble recovery by Evan Foster, and interceptions from halfbacks Jayden McKoy and Jordan Linnen.

Calgary also lost Buckley to a hamstring injury midway through the third quarter. Dzwilewski entered the game in relief, producing 105 yards, no touchdowns, and

one interception.

On the defensive side of the ball, Yantz did an effective job manag- DJ Lalama led the way, with eight ing the game for the Bisons. He fin- total tackles. Lauren Kroeker and ished with 263 yards, one touchdown, Foster put in strong efforts from the and no interceptions. end positions, both recording four LaFrance was the biggest play- tackles, with Kroeker adding a sack. maker offensively for Manitoba, put- After him romping 81 yards for a ting in a workhorse effort. He carried score on the first play, the Manitoba the ball 30 times for 155 yards and a defensive held Timmis to just 52 touchdown. yards rushing for the remainder of The Winnipeg product was the game. pleased with the way the team has come together all season to get to Uteck Bowl this point.

The Bisons will now head to the “There’s not a group of guys I’d CIS National Semi-Finals in the rather be sharing this victory with. Uteck Bowl to take on the secondEveryone had put in so much work ranked Université de Montréal to get where we’re at, and it’s finally Carabins on the road. Game time is paying off,” LaFrance said.

Saturday Nov. 22, at 11:30 a.m. CT. “It’s definitely the best experience This will be the first time the two I’ve had in this program and is truly teams have ever squared off. the most amazing feeling.”