2 September 2015

MANITOBAN the

THE OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA STUDENTS’ NEWSPAPER

ARTS & CULTURE

Designing a nicer city Contest opens to promote exceptional design of public spaces Page 21

FEATURE

Back to the books The Manitoban’s Declassified School Survival Guide Page 13-18

SPORTS

Tackling the competition Bisons look to defend their championship title Page 26

VO L 1 0 2 · N O 4 · S E P T E M B E R 2 , 2 0 1 5 · W W W.T H E M A N I TO B A N .CO M

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Index

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

NEWS

Political party platform push ​ Bringing student debt to the federal forefront

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Craig Adolphe

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EDITORIAL

NEWS EDITOR Ethan Cabel

page 4

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FEATURES EDITOR Dana Hatherly

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SCIENCE

Logging out Death in the age of social media

COMMENT EDITOR Evan Tremblay

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MANAGING EDITOR Lauren Siddall

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ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Seamus Hamilton-Pattison

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SPORTS EDITOR Mike Still

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COPY EDITOR Tom Ingram

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DESIGN

DESIGN EDITOR Bradly Wohlgemuth

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GRAPHICS EDITOR Bram Keast

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VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTORS

Justin Ladia Marianne Helm Emma Partridge Cherihan Hassun Jen Goertzen Caroline Norman Jordyn Lerner Ian McDonald

ARTS & CULTURE

Chairing is caring

Astitwa Thapa Aldo Rios Kasey Rae Morgan Steven Stairs Sarah Walker Will Gibson Michel Ghanem Andy Che

Chantal Zdan Ryan Stelter Jeff Miller Tara Miller

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Time to strike Women's soccer enters regular season

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The newspaper’s primary mandate is to report fairly and objectively on issues and events of importance and interest to the students of the University of Manitoba, to provide an open forum for the free expression and exchange of opinions and ideas, and to stimulate meaningful debate on issues that affect or would otherwise be of interest to the student body and/or society in general. The Manitoban serves as a training ground for students interested in any aspect of journalism.

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News

News Editor: Ethan Cabel Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Economics department preparing to split over academic disputes National union will censure U of M if disputes between two camps are not resolved, says executive director ETHAN CABEL, STAFF

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ver six months after a scath- negotiations when contacted by the ing report from the Canadian Manitoban through marketing and Association of University Teachers communications.

(CAUT) detailed deep divisions However, selections of an April within the University of Manitoba 30 memo from Taylor outlining the department of economics, the working group’s mandate were pubuniversity is preparing to split the lished by the University of Manitoba department into two units made up Faculty Association in a letter to its of warring groups of professors. members on May 6.

The CAUT report released in According to the memo, the January detailed academic disputes terms of reference for the working between so-called “heterodox” group are to “prepare a proposal for economists, who favour critical the division of the department of approaches to the discipline, and economics into two academic units, “orthodox” or mainstream economists taking into account the needs of the who study the aggregate behaviour of current undergraduate and graduate individual buyers and sellers in the programs, the distribution of acamarket economy. demic and support staff, the names The report claims that heterodox of the new academic units, and any faculty members have been margin- other relevant matters.” alized within the department and John Danakas, executive director that their academic freedom has been of public affairs at the U of M, conviolated through a series of decisions firmed that splitting the department stretching back to 2006. is one option under consideration.

These decisions include alleged “The dean is working with the interference from the dean of arts in groups to reach a mutually satisfying the hiring of an orthodox professor resolution,” Danakas said in an email. to teach Canadian economic policy “One suggestion put forward by president David Barnard outlining and the decision to select Pinaki one of the groups has been a split.” the key recommendations the uniBose, a so-called orthodox economist versity needs to act on if it is to avoid from outside the U of M, to head the censure. department in 2010. In both cases, “They would like These include maintaining a heterodox candidates unsuccessfully united department, ensuring that the economics competed for the positions. the number of heterodox economists Bose led the way in implement- profession to remains stable, and ensuring that ing curriculum changes to increase “there is no discrimination against have the same quantitative requirements at the faculty in terms of courses offered,” undergraduate level and to reduce the he said. divisions that were number of elective courses required “The move to appoint a temporary in existence when for graduate students. head was a recognition of the toxic These curriculum changes were work environment there,” Robinson the baby boomers met with staunch resistance by the said. were at Woodstock, heterodox camp, which is comprised “I’m disappointed, however, that it of six professors who claim the seems to be coming from the adminand you know changes disadvantage their research istration that the main proposal on what? The times and reduce their course offerings. the table, and the one they are being Many of these six professors have encouraged to accept, is to split the have changed and been active in the department for department into two academic units.” decades, including in leadership roles.

Robinson told the Manitoban that so has economics” As part of their recommendations, the inevitable outcome of a split is the – Laura Brown, CAUT instructed the university to eventual dissolution of the heterodox appoint an acting head that would unit. associate professor, ensure the heterodox camp was given U of M department more influence over faculty hires and Department split over the split curriculum development. The report of economics recommended that the next three The proposal to split the departdepartment hires should be heteroment was first made on April 23 when dox faculty.

Richard Lobdell, professor in the During the spring, Bose sought an CAUT responds department of economics, tabled a extension of his term in the position At the May meeting of CAUT motion at the department council for another five years while Fletcher council, the organization unani- recommending the split. The motion Baragar, a heterodox professor, mously passed a motion declaring was approved 12 for, six against, and sought to succeed him. that the national union will censure two abstentions.

In order to quell tensions between the U of M administration at its All six heterodox professors voted the two camps, the university’s November council meeting unless against the motion. administration appointed Steven the university resolves the issues iden“Splitting the department is the Lecce, associate professor in the tified in their January report. final stage in what we would call department of political studies, as The consequences of censure intellectual cleansing,” said Robert acting head. include instructing CAUT members Chernomas, professor in the departLecce is now leading a working not to accept academic appointments, ment of economics and a leading group established by Jeffery Taylor, honours, or invitations to speak at member of the heterodox camp. dean of arts at the U of M, to resolve the U of M. “We’re interested in an integrated, these disputes. Taylor would not David Robinson, executive direc- methodologically plural department, comment on the working group’s tor of CAUT, sent a letter to U of M that is where we think the economics

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

department needs to go.” started.”

Among those who supported the Compton also supported the motion to split was Laura Brown, an motion to split the department. associate professor in the department “The fact that we don’t get along for nearly 20 years. stems from the fact that we have Brown, who identifies as a left- two very different ideas of what the wing feminist economist, took a six- department should look like [...] and month stress leave in 2013 due in part that has created a lot of conflict in to the emotional toll of workplace the last decade that has devolved into disputes. [interpersonal conflict],” she said.

She argues that many professors “There are very deep differences of have been characterized as orthodox opinion and our time should be spent by the six heterodox faculty simply doing research and teaching, and not because they support the use of quan- on politics.” titative methods in their research and The University of Notre Dame in teaching. According to Brown, the Indiana split its economics departdisputes fundamentally involve a ment in 2003 over similar disputes disagreement over the curriculum between faculty, with the heterodox changes instituted by former head unit eventually dissolving seven years Pinaki Bose, which have bolstered later, in 2010. quantitative requirements in line with In the same year, the labour similar undergraduate economics studies program at the University programs across the country. of Manitoba, which was originally “They would like the economics housed in the department of economprofession to have the same divisions ics, became a free-standing academic that were in existence when the baby program. boomers were at Woodstock, and you The CAUT report claims that the know what? The times have changed two designated labour studies faculty and so has economics,” Brown said. experienced intimidation and harass“I am all for separation because ment at department council meetings anything that allows us to actually before subsequently being removed have the freedom to design a program, from the department. to revise a program, and change a “Personally, I was glad that the program without being constantly CAUT took on this investigation. accused of being the most horrible I thought it was entirely appropripeople on the planet [is a good thing].” ate,” said David Camfield, an assoJanice Compton, an associate pro- ciate professor in the labour studies fessor in the department, has been an program, in an interview with the outspoken critic of the CAUT report. Manitoban earlier this year.

In a January blog post, she critiCamfield was one of the faculty cized the methodology of the report, members removed from the departwhich was the result of an investiga- ment in 2010 and he agreed to partion in two years ago, arguing that ticipate in the CAUT investigation she did not participate in their inves- that led to the January report. tigation because “it was my opinion that the outcome of the report was clear before the investigation even

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News

News Editor: Ethan Cabel Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Student group pushes federal parties to address student debt Canadian Federation of Students calls for national student debt strategy DANA HATHERLY, STAFF

GRAPHIC BY JUSTIN LADIA

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n an attempt to bring student debt to the political forefront this federal election, the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS) is pushing for a national strategy to shift from student loans to grants, in line with a recently approved program by Newfoundland and Labrador.

Post-secondary students across the country are facing mounting levels of student debt, rising tuition, and high youth unemployment, according to the federation. As parties roll out their election platforms, CFS national chairperson Bilan Arte wants the federal frontrunners to bring student issues to the table.

Arte argues that the federal government should follow the lead of Newfoundland and Labrador, where the provincial government shifted its student aid entirely from loans to need-based grants available to students.

This would involve developing national plans for disbursing funds from the federal government to the provinces.

“I think that students want to see a government on Oct. 19 that’s going to recognize that student issues are election issues and that we need to have a national strategy around affordable and accessible post-secondary education,” Arte said.

Arte told the Manitoban that students now carry over $17 billion in total federal student debt, while those who graduate face a national average of $27,000 in debt. This debt burden hurts graduates who are already entering a competitive job market, according to Arte, with expectations that they can work for little to no remuneration as entry-level jobs are increasingly replaced with unpaid internships.

More university graduates are unable to repay their loans, Arte said. Some are defaulting on their payments, whereas others are taking longer to pay back the loans.

Those who take the leap to enter into post-secondary education face debt accumulation over the course of their degree, she added. The federa-

tion cited financial reasons and fear Étudiantes du Campus de l’Université of accumulating debt as the major de Montréal, said that their group has deterrence factors against post-sec- been lobbying for improved research ondary attendance, which they claim funding and will continue to focus on disproportionately affects already that issue as the election campaign marginalized groups like indig- heats up. enous Canadians and first-generation immigrants.

“The indebtedness of an entire gen- “I think that students eration has meant that we have been want to see a unable to participate in the economy in the same way that previous generagovernment on tions have been able to,” Arte said.

Oct. 19 that’s going Arte said that the CFS will not be campaigning for any particular fed- to recognize that eral political party, but that the orgastudent issues are nization remains unimpressed that student debt has not been a priority election issues and under Stephen Harper’s Conservative that we need to have government.

“What happened in Newfoundland a national strategy and Labrador happened under a Conservative government, which around affordable shows that these issues go beyond and accessible postpolitical standpoints,” she said of the need-based grant program adopted in secondary education” that province.

– Bilan Arte, CFS The present federal system covers about 60 per cent of average student national chairperson aid, with the provinces filling in the remainder. The federal government “We focus on issues that students provides key post-secondary funding in the areas of direct assistance care about, to ensure that those issues to students, tax measures to support are brought up in the public agenda,” higher learning, and incentives for Lavallée said. parents and students to save money Rodney Clifton, professor emerifor education. tus for the University of Manitoba “Tax credits do not meet the real- faculty of education, told the ity of young people. Saving schemes Manitoban that student debt may be do not benefit those who need the an issue, but it is one that should be most. These are not options towards addressed at the provincial, rather financing your education,” Arte said than the federal, level.

Clifton does not believe the plan about present aid programs.

For some students in Quebec, proposed by the CFS would work who already face some of the lowest because education falls under protuition rates and average debt across vincial jurisdiction. the country, debt is not a top priority “I don’t think in our country that [a in this election. national strategy] will work, because Nicolas Lavallée, secretary general allocation of education is a provincial of the Fédération des Associations responsibility in the Constitutional

Act, and even making minor changes in education has taken considerable effort,” he said.

The federal government subsidizes a sizeable chunk of research and academic programs, and there has been a shift of resources from undergraduate to graduate education and research funding over the past 50-60 years, Clifton said in an interview.

Evidence in his report on the allocation of resources at the University of Manitoba, titled “The Allocation of Resources and Degrees Awarded: A Case Study of the University of Manitoba 2001 to 2008,” illustrates that undergraduate student numbers are not rising as fast as for graduates.

But undergraduate tuition is subsidizing graduate students’ academic endeavours as high-level research becomes a priority in post-secondary institutions, Clifton said.

These results suggest an eroding quality of education, Clifton told the Manitoban.

Undergraduate students are not only cross-subsidizing graduate students, according to Clifton, but undergraduates in education and humanities are also subsidizing the tuition paid by those in technical professional programs, like dentistry.

Clifton questioned the fairness in each scenario.

Institutions should look inward as “the cost of the post-secondary system is generally too expensive,” he said, pointing out faulty interdepartmental collaboration and major inefficiencies, such as duplicated courses and small class sizes, which create higher costs.

“Whether [student debt] should be an election issue or not I think depends upon what you believe the cost of education should be.”

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

News

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Psychiatry professor sheds light on PTSD with federal research grant U of M professor receives nearly $2 million in government funding for study LAUREN SIDDALL, STAFF

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niversity of Manitoba psychiatry professor Jitender Sareen received just under $2 million from the federal Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) this summer to fund a major research project studying post-traumatic stress disorder among vulnerable Canadians.

His project, entitled “Defining the longitudinal course, outcomes, and treatment needs of vulnerable Canadians with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),” looks to establish a basic level of understanding of the long-term effects of PTSD and trauma, which has yet to be thoroughly explored by mental health professionals in Canada.

“It’s one of those under-recognized mental health problems. I think we’re much more aware of depression, schizophrenia, and alcoholism, but more recently with all the veterans coming back from Afghanistan, there’s been more focus on PTSD, but we really don’t know what happens to people over time,” Sareen said, adding that he hopes his research will bolster understanding of PTSD in the Canadian context.

“Most of what we know comes from the American healthcare system, which is very different than the Canadian system.”

Sareen plans to paint a more comprehensive picture of the course of PTSD in Canada by conducting a series of interviews with those who have experienced a traumatic event or suffered from PTSD, and by performing consistent follow-up interviews over a long period of time.

“There are two major parts of the study. One is to look at the large national-representative Canadian military sample that was collected in 2002 by Stats Canada,” Sareen said.

“Because we have all the information from 2002, with the identified linkage, we can look at what happens to them during the 15-year follow-up.”

Within the last 15 years, many military professionals in Canada were deployed to Afghanistan, providing ample opportunity for Sareen to analyze the soldiers before, during, and after combat to better understand post-traumatic stress and related conditions.

“The ultimate goal is to try and prevent PTSD and if PTSD occurs, that there is early access to treatments that work and are evidencebased so people recover quickly” – Jitender Sareen, U of M professor of psychiatry Sareen can also use information from this survey to analyze the transition from being an active member of the military to being a veteran, which is also a stressful time. The second part of the study expands beyond military personnel to study civilians who have experienced injury.

“The second part of the study is the civilian cohort, where we’re looking to recruit people from all over Manitoba who have landed in the hospital for acute injuries, like motor

vehicle accidents and burns,” Sareen said.

“We want to follow-up with interviews to see how common PTSD is in people who suffered really traumatic injuries, and to see what happens to them insofar as their recovery, their resilience factors, how common PTSD is, and what the treatment needs are.”

Sareen believes the lack of knowledge on PTSD is a massive, systemic issue for the heath care field.

“If you look at diabetes or heart disease, it’s important to follow people long-term to see what happens to them in their natural course to see how many recover without treatment, how many go for treatment, what are the perceived needs for care, what are the functional impacts, what happens to them as far as physical health problems, prescription medication use,” he said.

“We just don’t know that level of detail, which is basic information, about people who experienced trauma or PTSD, so that is a priority for the study.”

With his pioneering study, Sareen also looks to establish risk factors and warning signs of PTSD. “Because it’s a longitudinal study, we hope to be able to come up with prediction tools so that a clinician or people in the military can help to see who is at a higher risk, or who is more likely to develop PTSD, or recover from PTSD, and also how people understand their own risk and what they need to do for their own recovery,” Sareen said.

For many people with PTSD, the course of recovery is not a straight line.

It is common for people with PTSD to experience other mental

PHOTO BY MARIANNE HELM

health issues. Flashbacks and recurring nightmares are routine, and somatic symptoms – such as nausea and increased heart rate – manifest themselves as well.

Some individuals rebound quickly, while others struggle to recover. Due to the debilitating effects of PTSD and the lack of knowledge, Sareen hopes clinicians globally will be able to extrapolate from his research on preventative measures and risk factors.

“There’s very little data internationally on the longitudinal course, so the prediction tools that we’re looking to develop here could be utilized by other organizations because the military follow-up survey and the civilian cohort will be quite unique around the world,” he said.

While Sareen hopes the infor-

mation gathered during the series of interviews will be groundbreaking for PTSD research, he has his sights set even higher.

“The ultimate goal is to try and prevent PTSD and if PTSD occurs, that there is early access to treatments that work and are evidence-based so people recover quickly. Right now, limited data shows that people with PTSD suffer for long periods of time before they get any treatment and they also develop depression and alcoholism,” Sareen said.

“We want to help them get back to their normal functioning as quickly as possible.”

UMSU unveils Frosh Fest lineup Dillon Francis, Oliver Heldens, Waka Flocka Flame, and the Lytics to take the stage CRAIG ADOLPHE, STAFF

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s a new school year approaches, the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) is preparing to host their third annual Frost Fest Music Festival this month, which will take place on Sept. 20 at Max Bell Centre.

UMSU has already announced this year’s lineup, which includes American DJ Dillon Francis, Oliver Heldens, and rapper Waka Flocka Flame. Hip hop group the Lytics, a local favourite, has also been booked as an opening act with other local DJs to be announced as opening acts in the coming weeks.

UMSU president Jeremiah Kopp said he was happy about the acts the

the 2017 Canada Summer Games, union had been able to book.

“We reached out to a wide variety which will be hosted in Winnipeg. of artists and I think what we wanted to do “I think it’s exciting that we have is attract large-scale names that would several top artists this year and appeal to a broad have a true festival lineup” – swath of students and create the most Jeremiah Kopp, UMSU president enjoyable event possible,” said Kopp.

“I think it’s exciting that we have several top artists this Kopp said that the new space year and have a true festival lineup.” will mean a smaller capacity, slightly In the last two years the musical under 4,000, and that with early bird acts performed outdoors at University tickets, which were priced at $35, Stadium, but this year that space will already sold out, UMSU is anticibe unavailable due to renovations for pating to sell out their full supply of

tabling for different advocacy camtickets before Sept. 20.

The festival is the culmination of paigns, there’ll be a wide range of more than a week activities,” Kopp said. of orientation “We’re excited for another great activities starting September celebration with our new on Thursday, Sept. and returning students. And it’s 10. just showing that the University of “We’re doing Manitoba Students’ Union and the beer gardens on University of Manitoba are able to the 10th and 11th. have the same quality student expeAnd we’re having rience that you would expect at any the grand open- other large university and campus ing of the Hub, with an extended around the country.” patio [that day as well]. Great events through the week at the Hub, at Tickets for Frosh Fest are availDegrees. And we’ll have a full able at UMSU Living on the first week’s worth of orientation activi- floor of University Centre, as well ties, whether it be free breakfast or as online through diyobo.com.

6

News

News Editor: Ethan Cabel Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Questions remain over resignation of UBC president UBC Board of Governors chair steps down over academic freedom controversy EMMA PARTRIDGE, THE UBYSSEY

PHOTO BY CHERIHAN HASSUN FOR THE UBYSSEY

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ANCOUVER – It’s fair to say According to the new interim that almost no one saw it com- president, Martha Piper, she ing. On Friday, Aug. 7, University of was contacted about the position British Columbia (UBC) president “right about the time that Arvind Arvind Gupta resigned his position [Gupta] resigned. You know, the one year into a five-year mandate. two things were happening almost The announcement was made via simultaneously.” a press release from the university, Echoing the sentiment of the which did not provide many details general UBC community, Piper said as to why the president resigned. the announcement came as a total Mathematics professor and surprise. former board of governors memNow the question on everyone’s ber Nassif Ghoussoub noted in a mind is: why did Gupta resign?

Georgia Straight article that “the lack The speculation about what could of information and transparency in have prompted this sudden resignathe announcement was not lost on tion has been fuelled by some of the anyone.” incidents of note during Gupta’s time The press release cited a focus on in office. academic priorities as the reason for During Gupta’s time as president, the change. To many, this news was three vice-presidents stepped down. entirely unexpected.

Vice-president finance Pierre Ouillet “This news came as a complete left his position on September 5. UBC surprise to me, and I have spent the cited focus on academics as Ouillet’s weekend trying to make sense of it,” motivation for resigning. wrote Mark MacLean, president of Then Pascal Spothelfer, vice-presithe UBC Faculty Association, in an dent of communications and commuopen letter. nity partnership, left his post. Finally, “This was a sudden and immediate vice-president academic David Farrar resignation, and I am skeptical that stepped down from his role, becomthe reason for it is simply that profes- ing an adviser to the president. sor Gupta wishes to return to the life In addition to replacing the of a professor of computer science.” interim president with a permanent Gupta could not be contacted for one, the search for a permanent procomment on the resignation. vost is ongoing.

Without many clear answers, Stephen Toope also quit before his and keep the university moving in questions about the resignation con- term was officially completed. Piper, an upward trajectory.” tinue to arise, especially since hiring who will serve as interim president Piper was generally praised during Gupta as president was a decision while a search for the new president is her time as president for helping cremade with considerable planning, conducted, also left early in her term ate UBC’s “world class” standard for foresight and resources. The interna- as UBC president from 1997 to 2006. fundraising and research. There were tional search that eventually resulted When asked how three successive some incidents for which she faced in Gupta’s hiring cost the university early resignations impact a university, criticism, such as the Asia-Pacific $430,000.

Piper said that her own exit as well as Economic Co-operation (APEC) The 22-member search committee, Toope’s “were done in orderly fashion, controversy.

At the time of Piper’s presidency, headed by former UBC chancellor so I wouldn’t put them in the same Sarah Morgan-Silvester, chose Gupta category [as Gupta’s], but I’ll tell you, students protesting the APEC sumto be president.

I think you always have to respect an mit on UBC’s campus were forced Gupta was officially named presi- individual’s decision to step down back by police with pepper spray and dent on March 12, 2014. Despite the whenever or however it’s done.” dogs. fact that he didn’t have any experience Piper also faced scrutiny after in university administration, many a Freedom of Information request had faith that that the former CEO “This was a sudden unearthed a letter sent by Piper to and scientific director of Mitacs, a the province requesting some action national not-for-profit research orga- and immediate to prevent a teaching assistant strike nization that in 2013 attracted $10.4 resignation, and I am from causing the school year to be million in private investment, would “lost.” skeptical that the be the right man for the job.

This time around, UBC’s big “I think he’s going to be support- reason for it is simply issues have to do with increasing ing the core academic mission more tuition and housing fees, among that professor Gupta other issues. than anybody I know because the government trusts that he has a global “I need to understand the issue, I wishes to return to view of the role of universities,” said need to get some background briefing Ghoussoub in a Georgia Straight arti- the life of a professor on the issue and listen to the sides cle written the month that Gupta was of the issue,” said Piper, when asked of computer science" how she would manage these new appointed.

Notably, Gupta’s resignation came problems.

- Mark MacLean, a week after his performance reports “You know, most issues like this president, UBC were due, according to his contract. the president doesn’t pronounce [...]

Gupta’s contract states that the we are a collegial decision-making Faculty Association appointment of the president can be body even though sometimes people terminated “summarily for cause at don’t think that’s the case.” any time without notice or pay in UBC isn’t releasing details, Piper will serve as interim presilieu of notice.” But UBC has stated though all eyes have been on the dent from Sept. 1, 2015 to June 30, that Gupta’s departure constitutes a institution looking for an explanation 2016. resignation. as to why, right before the start of a Controversy over Gupta’s resigGupta could have simply resigned new academic year that also happens nation boiled over further last week and provided three months’ written to be UBC’s centennial anniversary, when John Montalbano stepped notice as his contract requires, or their latest president has left without down as chair of the UBC Board of he could have been terminated and warning.

Governors after mounting pressure elected to resign within 60 days of his “My own view is, as an interim, I’m for his resignation. termination notice. not here to change direction or set The change of leadership at the The UBC Board of Governors strategy or to create a new vision or board comes after a controversy had yet to provide details about what any of that,” said Piper, when asked over whether Montalbano violated avenue Gupta took to exit his position. if she hopes to either build upon or the academic freedom of professor However, the university will continue change Gupta’s legacy.

Jennifer Berdahl, who had written paying Gupta a full year’s salary of “I’m here to ensure that we con- a blog post critical of the university $446,750 for 2015-16. tinue to gain momentum and con- shortly after Gupta’s resignation.

Gupta isn’t the only president to tinue to provide the best research and resign in recent years. His predecessor learning environment that we can – National University Wire

Editorial

8

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

Harper’s war on the news media Criticism and questions lead to candidates in hiding CRAIG ADOLPHE, STAFF

his campaign bus, and one from a handpicked local reporter.

The four outlets paying for placement on the campaign bus pay $12,000 a week (or $70,000 for the whole tour) for the privilege. This practice is commonplace with the NDP charging $12,500 a week and the Liberals a yet-undisclosed amount, but by restricting questions entirely to these few reporters who can be counted on one hand, he’s able to squeeze out smaller, critical media outlets and create a culture of fear for reporters who are currently on the inside.

Win or lose, genius strategy or gross miscalculation, candidates have an obligation to be available to the public and participate in public debate and an exchange of ideas

GRAPHIC BY JEN GOERTZEN

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anada’s 42nd general election campaign is now well under way and the media is in full campaign coverage mode, although for one party that might not mean much.

The Conservatives’ campaign has been the subject of controversy recently after journalists began reporting on the way Conservative candidates and the Prime Minister’s Office have handled interaction with them. Problems with that dynamic are not new – in fact many of the complaints relate to ongoing issues that date back years – but they signal a toxic relationship that has only been made worse by the Conservatives’ recent tactics.

Last week, citing a party insider, the Toronto Star reported that Conservative candidates across the country have been told not to speak to reporters or attend all-candidate meetings. This story tied together numerous instances reported by other journalists of being unable to receive comment or interviews with local candidates during the campaign.

Toronto Star national affairs columnist Tim Harper detailed his experience crossing the country as part of his federal election coverage, noting the bizarre circumstances in which he was unable to find a Conservative candidate who would sit down to talk to him in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

His experience included being ignored or otherwise passed over in ridings where every other party’s candidate spoke to him. Even Tim Uppal, who holds the role of minister

of state for multiculturalism, passed on an interview. Mark MacDonald, Conservative candidate for Nanaimo– Ladysmith, said he would not be available for an interview until after the election.

Perhaps the most disturbing example highlighted by le Soleil is Pierre-Thomas Asselin, candidate for Québec, whose campaign team has reportedly refused to give even the most basic information, including age and profession, about the candidate to the local press, telling them that “if he starts deviating from the game plan we’ve established, we’ll completely lose control.”

“We’re better than news, because we’re truthful” – Kory Teneycke, Conservative campaign spokesman The recent blitz of coverage first came after Ottawa Citizen reporter Glen McGregor was told by someone in Conservative MP Joe Daniels’s campaign office that the incumbent MP would not be doing interviews until after the election. An audibly incredulous McGregor uploaded a recording of the brief phone call to the Internet.

Broader trend

To whatever degree candidates are currently trying to avoid reporters and public scrutiny, it’s not a new phenomenon. The Conservatives’ contempt for critical media has been an ongoing issue.

In a letter to supporters in late 2013, the party complained about a “new low for the Ottawa media elite” after camera operators refused to film one of Prime Minister Harper’s speeches unless reporters were allowed in.

This was the culmination of a notice laid out by the Prime Minister’s office that kept media outlets from doing anything other than filming the speech by Harper – no reporters, no questions. Sun News was the only media outlet to agree to the Conservatives’ terms and ended up being the only media allowed inside.

The Conservative party has blown up the pact held together by a coalition of Canada’s major media outlets and political parties by refusing to participate in the country’s traditional consortium debates, instead handpicking a list of smaller debates – with specific topics and, arguably, smaller audiences – that they would be willing to participate in.

Since announcing plans to skip the English consortium debates (opting to only participate in the French version), Harper has rolled out a limited and restricted question and answer format which sees the Prime Minister answer only five questions a day – four from the four media outlets paying to have media access on

“We’re better than news, because we’re truthful,” Teneycke interjected with a wry grin.

That grin didn’t last long; a look emerged on his face as though he just realized he had said that out loud. It was only a brief slip up, but it did give us an insight into the mind behind the party’s campaign.

The common thread across all facets of Harper’s philosophy regarding the media and the public’s right to information is that anyone who seeks to criticize or question the party should be crushed, ignored, or worked around.

For the public

Working for a student paper I’ve had the opportunity to interview a reasonable number of student politicians, a group that has often, fairly or not, been labelled as petty.

Even when conducting interviews in which the interviewee has known the questions would be pointed or likely not reflect well on them, I’ve never encountered anything even remotely as childish or combative as the behaviour displayed by the federal Conservatives’ approach to media.

Last week the Winnipeg Free Press’s Mary Agnes Welch wrote As stringent as this format already an insightful piece about how the appears to be, it says nothing of the Conservative party’s approach to vetting process local questions go media was having the unintentional through before media are given the effect of preventing opportunities for “okay” to ask them. positive media coverage, as they shut When the three major parties’ reporters out for fear of the potential leaders stopped in Winnipeg in (and to be fair, likely) negative coverAugust, each helming their own age that would come with access. political rally, it came as a disapPointing out the flaw in their stratpointment, but no surprise, that egy and how it might come back to the Conservatives event was by haunt them is an interesting thought, invite-only. but it’s still not the main issue at hand.

The dismantling of the CBC is Win or lose, genius strategy or gross another example of an assault on miscalculation, candidates have an the media. The national broadcaster, obligation to be available to the public a Canadian institution, has been and participate in public debate and defunded at an alarming rate over an exchange of ideas – particularly the past several years. And while during an election. There’s much cuts to the organization do predate more at stake than the Conservatives’ Harper’s ascent, it wasn’t until the political fortunes.

Conservative’s tenure that we saw it Their participation can’t be limited done with such glee – with individual to door-to-door canvassing, as they Conservative’s presenting petitions to had hoped. defund the CBC calling it an “honWhatever other negative conseour,” and a “pleasure” to do so from quences might come along with it, the floor of the House of Commons. the existence of a mass media gives us the opportunity for professionals The common thread to vet information and critique claims In a late June interview with made by our political class – when Global News’s Tom Clark, Kory done well, it serves as an effective Teneycke, campaign spokesman for check on power, to keep things honthe federal Conservatives, defended est. Having people who spend hours the Conservative party’s use of music sifting through data, conducting and imagery created by ISIS in their interviews, analyzing and compiling advertisements, framing it as part of it all, and presenting it in a digestible a debate about how to deal with ISIS. format for the public is indispensable.

Clark questioned whether it in That’s the value of a vocal and fact contravened new rules, brought independent news media and it’s time in by the Conservatives, about pro- for the Conservatives to stop trying moting terrorism through use of such to work their way around ours. imagery while Teneycke, a former vice-president of Sun News Network, compared the Conservative party’s use of the imagery to its use on the news.

“But you’re not news. You’re there advertising,” Clark replied.

Comment Comment Editor: Evan Tremblay Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

10

The insurance switcheroo UMSU’s health and dental failure places burden on members TOM INGRAM, STAFF

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ecently, the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) announced that the premium on the new health and dental plan will increase by $45.25 per student for the fall. This is a complicated issue with its roots in events that occurred a few years ago, and since it is our first issue of the fall term I think it would be worthwhile to revisit it.

These are the students who will be paying the increased premium: those who can least afford it UMSU is a member of an organization called the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS). For some time now UMSU and CFS have been at odds over many issues, and UMSU has been gradually shifting away from using the services that CFS provides. Among these services is a health and dental insurance plan: through its broker, CFS negotiates with Greenshield for a favourable rate for its members.

In 2013, UMSU signed a deal with a new broker, StudentCare, which provides insurance through Manitoba Blue Cross. The next year UMSU agreed to a five-year deal with StudentCare, an agreement which required them to amend their bylaws to permit long-term health

and dental arrangements. The pur- through my parents. The students pose of signing with StudentCare was who live comfortably and receive supposedly to ensure a low premium some form of parental support will rate with long-term stability. not even notice this premium increase, Evidently StudentCare was not as they will never have to pay it. able to deliver: now, in the second The plan is in place so students year of the five-year contract, rates are without such support – often students being raised. Meanwhile, students from low-income families, single attending the University of Winnipeg, mothers, international students, etc. which has stayed with the CFS plan, – do not go without health coverage are paying nearly $100 less per year during their studies. These are the than UMSU members. students who will end up bearing There are many reasons that a the burden of an increased premium: number of student unions are trying those who can least afford it. to defederate from CFS or reduce reliance on the services it provides.

Some of the services CFS provides The students who are of dubious utility. Its political live comfortably and advocacy is often quixotic and many feel that large student unions reprereceive some form of senting diverse student bodies should not be a part of an organization that is parental support will so overtly left-wing. Its national office not even notice this is notoriously evasive and difficult to get in touch with. premium increase, But there is one thing that CFS is evidently able to do with some suc- as they will never cess, and that is providing a low rate have to pay it for a health and dental plan. This is no surprise: CFS is a national machine At this point, UMSU is probably with several hundred thousand individual members and tremendous bar- locked in and has no other choice but gaining power. Meanwhile, UMSU to continue through its contract and can’t even turn a profit selling beer attempt to negotiate the best deal it can each year. But from a long-term to students.

UMSU’s failure to find an alter- view, it looks in essence as if UMSU nate insurance plan comparable to has forced its poorest members to CFS’s is made even bleaker when you subsidize its penny-ante factionalism. consider who uses the plan. During my degree, I opted out of the health and dental plan every year because, as bourgeois scum, I had coverage

GRAPHIC BY CAROLINE NORMAN

The question of quotas Policy not wrong, but transparency lacking JORDYN LERNER

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or over a year, the faculty of engineering has faced allegations of discrimination towards international students.

These allegations stem from engineering’s goal to admit between 12 and 15 per cent international students each year. Once this quota has been met, academically qualified international students are denied admission in favour of domestic students with lower GPAs. The oft-cited example is that in 2014, the last international student accepted into civil engineering had a GPA of 4.13, while the last domestic student accepted had a GPA of 2.94.

Student groups held multiple protests on this issue, including one last year profiled in the Winnipeg Free Press.

Readers of that paper might remember that education reporter Nick Martin took a cynical tone.

He noted that several students held signs reading “I have a 4.0 and I

couldn’t get in.” But when he interviewed the students holding those signs, none were actually in that situation. On his blog, Nick Martin later quipped, “What part of ‘I’ is so hard to understand?”

I’m sympathetic to international students who were denied admission by engineering’s quota system. My paternal grandfather was subject to the Jewish quota when he applied to medicine at the University of Manitoba in the 1930s. It’s frustrating to be denied admission to a faculty based on a single, non-academic characteristic.

But the quota placed on international students is a different beast than the Jewish quota. The Jewish quota was based on the erroneous belief that certain ethnic groups would never be welcomed as physicians, and therefore it was pointless to provide them with a medical education. The rationale behind the

international student quota is more substantiated than that.

to leave the province after graduation than students from Manitoba. If the faculty of engineering gave into protesters’ demands and eliminated the Students can, and international quota, the faculty would risk failing its social responsibility. will, protest against Protesters would never want a seemingly arbitrary public institution to fail its social responsibility. The protesters’ frustraquotas, but they tion could be alleviated if engineercan’t so easily ing was more transparent about the rationale behind its admission policy. protest against The faculty needs to publish and pubevidence-based licize the data on graduate retention.

It needs to clearly show that students admission policies from Manitoba are more likely to stay in the province than international students are.

As the province’s most promiStudents can, and will, protest nent public engineering school, the against seemingly arbitrary quotas, faculty of engineering has a social but they can’t so easily protest against mandate to supply Manitoba with evidence-based admission policies. engineers. To accomplish this, the More than just publishing the faculty limits admission of interna- data, engineering needs to conduct tional students, who are more likely ongoing studies to enhance its admis-

sion model. The faculty needs to find more characteristics than simply country of origin by which to evaluate an applicant’s likelihood of staying in Manitoba after graduation. With a sample size of over 300 students admitted each year, engineering can easily collect this data over several admission cycles.

The more the faculty of engineering studies and understands student retention, the more factors it can integrate into its admission model.

Deciding admission based on GPA and a single personal characteristic screams discrimination.

Deciding admission based on GPA and multiple personal characteristics is deciding admission on individual merit, which is the opposite of discrimination.

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

Fossil fuel divestment: the way to the future The hypocrisy of the university’s investment strategy IAN MCDONALD AND ASTITWA THAPA

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he fossil fuel divestment move- of the fossil fuel industry has nega- should be doing.” ment has been called the fastest- tive social effects on First Nations There are choices to be made in growing divestment movement in communities. Fossil fuel companies the near future that will have a great history. Huge institutions such as the continually infringe upon the treaty impact. The choices themselves are University of Glasgow in Scotland rights of First Nations, exacerbating clear: we either take action towards a have committed to the cause after the social problems that aboriginal better future, or we allow our univerpressure stemming from student ini- communities already face. Many sities to support that future’s destructiatives. It is time for the University of communities such as the Athabasca tion. The right choice is clearly the Manitoba to follow this progressive Chipewyan First Nation have taken former – we must choose to divest. movement into the future. stands against proprietors of the fosUniversities, like other large bod- sil fuel industry. The University of Fossil fuel divestment ies, invest capital with the intention Manitoba prides itself as a champion of having more returns for the future. of indigenous rights while at the same also makes economic The return of a greater sum occurs time contributing to their destruction when the company invested in is suc- through direct investments in fossil sense. A recent cessful and generates a profit. Fossil fuel companies. article in confirmed fuel companies are successful when This is only our current state. For a they sell their oil, gas, or coal, which fossil fuel investment to be successful, that fossil fuel free are, needless to say, burned and con- these products must be burned, and funds outperformed sumed – and are therefore destruc- more must continually be found and tive to the environment. The result of extracted to be burned in the future. conventional funds investment in fossil fuel companies is The capital that is invested in comby 1.2 per cent that investors have an interest in the panies is used in part to support the burning of fossil fuels. search for more fuel. It is also used by companies to transport oil by means that have been shown to be precarious The fossil fuel divestment camat best and too often detrimental to paign at the U of M is spearheaded The choices the communities they pass through. by Divest Manitoba, a student group themselves are A relevant question was raised in a under the umbrella of the University letter signed by 295 Stanford profes- of Manitoba Students’ Union. The clear: we either take sors in support of divestment: “If a fossil fuel divestment campaign has actions towards a university seeks to educate extraor- gained significant momentum since dinary youth so they may achieve the council voted in favour of adopting better future, or we brightest possible future, what does it the fossil fuel divestment campaign allow our universities mean for that university simultane- as proposed by Divest Manitoba and ously to invest in the destruction of Fossil Free Canada, a campus-based to support that that future?” The truth is that the fossil fuel divestment movement. two are impossible to reconcile. If a Currently, Divest Manitoba is future’s destruction university will not divest from fossil in contact with over 50 professors to fuels, they are not seeking the bright- draw attention to the fossil divestDivestment is the opposite of est future for students. In fact, they ment campaign. Divest Manitoba investment. In divesting, a university are supporting a grim future for all. will also be organizing numerous can declare that they do not have an The University of Manitoba must events including a speaker series to interest in industries that contribute support our environment and First discuss the divestment campaign Nations communities by divest- throughout Canada. to ecological destruction.

Our environment is in disarray. ing from fossil fuel companies and The current level of carbon dioxide supporting the environment. Is it Ian McDonald is the vice-presin our atmosphere is an all-time not hypocritical of us to call our- ident of Divest Manitoba. high 400 parts per million (ppm). selves “defenders,” “visionaries,” and Scientists tell us that we must reduce “trailblazers” if our investments are Astitwa Thapa is the vice-president this to below 350 ppm to avoid cata- contrary to the principles of a clean external of the University of strophic change in the living con- environment and indigenous rights? Manitoba Students’ Union and ditions of our planet. To do this we These campaign slogans seem dis- president of Divest Manitoba. must cap our fossil fuel emissions. ingenuous if we are not putting our Researchers from the University money where our mouths are. of Oxford and elsewhere have advoAlthough the reasons outlined cated for more than half the planet’s above make a strong moral case coal, oil, and gas reserves to be left for divestment, fossil fuel divestin the ground to keep global warm- ment also makes economic sense. A ing below two degrees Celsius – that recent news article in the Guardian being another threshold that we can- confirmed that fossil fuel free funds not cross if we want to avoid cata- outperformed conventional funds by strophic change.

1.2 per cent yearly according to MSCI, Global warming is continuing a U.S.-based provider of equity, fixed to put our collective futures at seri- income and hedge fund stock market ous risk. Public intellectuals such as indices. Even former Shell chairman Stephen Hawking and David Suzuki Mark Moody-Stuart said “divesthave spoken out against climate ment is a rational approach [...] If change, warning us of the dangers you think your money can be used that await us. somewhere else, you should switch In addition to environmental deg- it. Selective divestment or portfolio radation, the continued expansion switching is actually what investors

Comment 11

Science & technology 12 Science & Technology Editor: Chantelle Dubois Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Notes from the star field A U of M student’s adventures to the final frontier CHANTELLE DUBOIS, STAFF

PHOTO PROVIDED BY UMSATS

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hose who know me know that I have aspirations to eventually work in the space industry. Why space? I like to think I just have a very extreme case of wanderlust. I have this intense, selfish desire to know what is out there beyond our solar system. I want to be a part of the future exploration and discovery of our universe.

This fall I have been given the opportunity to do an internship in Vienna with the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC).

The SGAC is a global non-governmental organization which has permanent observer status with the United Nations Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. The SGAC is meant to provide students and young professionals between the age of 18 and 35 the opportunity to engage with the advancement of space policy and present their perspectives to the United Nations. The organization also connects with many

other agencies and organizations in accomplishing this goal.

The SGAC hosts two major events annually: the Space Generation Congress, and the Space Generation Fusion Forum. At these events, there are opportunities to network with other students and young professionals, as well as participate in work group sessions, plenaries, and presentations with industry and academic leaders.

Prior to my exposure to the SGAC, my only true engagement with anything space-related was through the University of Manitoba Space Applications and Technology Society (UMSATS), a design competition student group which designs and builds triple-cube nanosatellites for the Canadian Satellite Design Challenge. I joined UMSATS in 2013 as the outreach lead, and then became the business lead in 2014.

The team attracts members who are passionate about space and, like

me, hope to eventually have careers Generation Congress that was career in the space industry is no in the space sector. Others are being held in Toronto. The con- longer my back-burner pipe dream, attracted by the challenge of build- gress is followed by the much larger it is now an all-or-nothing effort. ing a spacecraft. Some are there just and more prestigious International Part of this effort has included to gain experience doing something Astronautical Congress, which becoming more involved with the a little different. Overall, the team attracts delegates, professionals, and SGAC. I applied to be a web editor consists of many talented, dedicated, academics from around the world. for the organization last Fall, and this and passionate individuals. It makes It took me a little while to make summer was appointed as the web it very easy to get excited about our the decision to go. I was intimidated team coordinator. Over the summer, satellite projects. by the idea of being thrust into the a vacancy for an intern at their head real world of space professionals, and office was posted, and I applied, and wasn’t sure what I had to contribute was subsequently accepted.

After my time in other than my enthusiasm.

During my internship, I will My decision to go has possibly be assisting the executive director Toronto, I came home been one of the most important deci- at the SGAC head office by helpsions I’ve made in the last decade of ing with preparations for the next to Winnipeg with my life.

Space Generation Congress being a completely new It was a surreal experience meet- held in Jerusalem in October, reping people from around the world resenting the organization at other perspective on my my age at the Space Generation international conferences, attending future. A career in Congress who were actively working the first SGAC European Student in the space industry, or who simply Workshop in Padova, Italy, assisting the space industry shared the same passion and enthusi- with completing the SGAC’s annual is no longer my asm I did. It suddenly made the space report, and other administrative work. sector feel much more accessible and While this work isn’t related back-burner pipe real. Even as a student, I could con- directly to my studies in engineertribute in some way to the future of ing, the opportunity to expand my dream, it is now an the space industry. My passion and network, make new friends, and all-or-nothing effort enthusiasm was enough, although I learn more about the space industry hope in the future to contribute much with an organization that has such more. a global perspective will surely proBeing a part of the team has preAt the International Astronautical vide invaluable insight and experience sented me with many great oppor- Congress which followed, some of my that would be difficult to gain elsetunities, including the opportunity UMSATS colleagues and I attended where. Most importantly, this is an to attend Neil deGrasse Tyson’s first fascinating presentations, met quirky opportunity for me to contribute to Canadian lecture at the U of M, and yet incredibly knowledgeable indi- the space industry using my current to visit the Canadian Space Agency’s viduals, connected with other nano- set of skills, and to become a more David Florida Laboratory in Ottawa, satellite teams, and wandered the informed contributor to the future where spacecraft are assembled and exhibition floor in awe of all the big- of space exploration. tested. name companies present.

I’ll be writing about my experiA colleague I met through After my time in Toronto, I came ences for the Manitoban throughout UMSATS made the recommenda- home to Winnipeg with a completely the term. I am both incredibly excited, tion that I attend the 2014 Space new perspective on my future. A and incredibly nervous.

Death in the age of social media Deciding what happens to your data CHANTELLE DUBOIS, STAFF

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t used to be that when preparing for your death, you would write a will to ensure your estate is handled how you want when you pass. Now, end-of-life preparation includes planning what will happen to your social

media accounts.

Earlier this year, Facebook rolled out the legacy feature, which enables users to select an individual from their friends list who can manage their account once they pass. This legacy contact is given the ability to change t he decea sed ’s profile and cover photo, accept friend requests, and post one f inal status message on their wall once their account has been memorialized.

The legacy contact, however, is not able to log in to the deceased’s account, delete friends, read or send messages, or change past posts.

GRAPHIC BY ALDO RIOS

An account on Facebook may be memorialized once a family member or friend submits a request to Facebook, with either a link to an obituary or other documentation.

Once an account has been memorialized, they no longer appear in searches, and their name is preceded with “Remembering.”

Alternatively, Facebook users may also use the legacy feature to request that their account is deleted once their death has been reported to Facebook. Family members or friends may also request that the Facebook account of a deceased loved one is deleted instead of memorialized.

It is common for friends and family to use Facebook accounts of the deceased as a place to share memories, acknowledge special dates, and to assist in the grieving process.

Google also offers a way for users to decide what happens to their

accounts after death, by either assigning an inactive account manager, or choosing to have their account deleted.

How the death of a user is handled varies between platforms. What is common is that no social media platform will release passwords or give access to an account as per their privacy policies.

For Twitter users, an immediate family member or the estate may submit a copy of a death certificate, and proof of relation, to deactivate an account.

Friends or family of a deceased Instagram user may submit a request with a link to an obituary or news article to have an account memorialized. Immediate family members or an estate may request for an account to be deleted.

Some online services, such as Legacy Box, are also available which

allow users to select an heir to their digital assets once they pass.

We are soon to enter a time when a whole generation has grown up with a social media presence for their entire lives – perhaps beginning with baby photos their parents posted on Facebook, and now entering their pre-teens with their own social media presence.

Social media began as a way to simply connect and stay in touch with friends and family. However, as time goes on, entire lives are being documented and shared from beginning to end. Digital property is becoming a real concern when it comes to how it is dealt with after those we care about pass. Having to consider how data is managed after death is certainly a characteristic which separates this generation from the last.

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Features Features Editor: Dana Hatherly Contact: features@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

University 101 Tips from the editors, words from the wider university community

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his feature edition of the from instructors. They may have anyManitoban serves as a survival where from a few to 300 pupils in a guide for new and returning stu- similar position as you, on top of varidents at the University of Manitoba, ous other work and research-related covering some university basics and commitments, and – surprise – a life including welcome notes from U outside of the academy. of M president David Barnard and Seek help as issues arise.

University of Manitoba Students’ Procrastination and panic are normal, Union president Jeremiah Kopp. but can be averted.

To alleviate anxieties and provide Invest in a backpack. Look for general insight about university stu- a spacious separate main compartdent life, the Manitoban’s editorial ment, sizeable additional zippered team has compiled some snippets partitions, comfortable, adjustable of advice. Read. Ask questions. Get shoulder straps, and chest and waist involved. Make friends. Remain criti- straps to take the weight off of your cal. Be practical. That basically sums shoulders. it up, but tease through our tips to find out what some of our editors have Tom’s tips learned or wished they would have Don’t worry too much about implemented over the course of their grades, even if you have scholarships own university experiences. that depend on them. Spend your time at school learning as much as The down-low from Dana you can and the grades will take care Ask questions about coursework of themselves. in class. Chances are that you are not Read outside of class. Read widely the only one wondering, but be mind- both inside and outside your chosen ful of hogging the floor. You are not field. Today’s university doesn’t offer an expert, and your colleagues are a liberal education. If you want to be not paying for and attending post- a well-rounded person, you have to secondary education to hear your become one on your own time. opinions and potentially ill-informed Get to know people with similar inquiries. interests. If you weren’t very social in Sometimes it is best to contact high school, it’s probably because you your instructor outside of class for didn’t like the people that surrounded direction on coursework. You are you. You’re more likely to find friends not expected to be an expert, so try at university.

If you’re not doing a professional to remain relaxed while reasonably prepared and on point with your degree (law, business, engineering, questions. education) don’t expect your degree Don’t expect immediate responses will give you much of a leg up in the

job market. Study what you can’t not study, or else switch to a professional program or drop out.

Lauren lays it out

Get involved. It’s way too easy to get so wrapped up in studying that you forget there’s a world outside of your textbook.

Take a break; grab a beer (or five) with some friends; talk to the person who you always sit beside in class; read a book that you actually want to read. Get out there, experience more, and try to enjoy yourself.

It’s okay to skip class to go out for breakfast or sleep in every once in a while. Your GPA is not the be-all and end-all of your university career, nor is it the deciding factor for potential employers. Grades lower than you were hoping for happen. Suck it up and move forward.

Seamus says

I really wish I had known how to effectively use any spares or blank spots in my schedule when I first enrolled in university.

You may have just started your post-secondary education, and so have many of your friends from high school and elsewhere. Even if you’re in different faculties or programs, you’re all bound to spend many days on campus simultaneously. My advice is this: think twice about trying to find one another during your spares.

Especially on a campus the size of the University of Manitoba, you’ll spend

much more time looking and walking if you go through an entire semesaround than actually socializing. ter and haven’t made a new friend.

Grab a beer or a coffee on campus, Everyone is sort of scared, awkward, or invite your buddies over to hang at and wants to stick with their high the end of the day. The hour or two school pals. you might have to yourself in between The best way I’ve found to meet classes is best used studying or work- people and make friends is by voling, so you won’t have to when the day unteering or joining a student group. is truly done.

There are many opportunities on campus that cater to a wide variety Ethan’s edicts of interests and experiences. Find Do not waste this period in your one that interests you and join. If you life. While you may feel that you are don’t feel like you fit in right away, automatically on the path to suc- don’t feel discouraged. A lot of groups cess by the sheer fact that you are a have an established social dynamic, university student, that is the wrong but with time you’ll fit in, too. attitude. Resolve to engage with the Many of my closest friends on university community and to discover campus I met through student groups what you are passionate about. and volunteer opportunities. They are A university degree is not a ticket part of what has made my university to a good job and your professors are experience so enjoyable. not baby-sitters. You are here to learn and to work, so take it seriously.

Real talk from Mike Forget about "C's get degrees."

If you’re struggling, whether that Good grades pay dividends. Nothing be mentally or emotionally, and don’t comes easy. More often than not, you feel comfortable talking to any of will fail. But keep learning, asking your friends or your parents, I would questions and debating with profes- highly suggest checking out the U of sors and colleagues. Regardless of all M’s student counselling centre. It’s the late night parties and myriad dis- located at 474 University Centre and tractions, hard work and intellectual is totally free to U of M students due discovery is why you are here. These to fees you pay in your tuition. The four years can either act as a solid people there are great and really help foundation to a good life, or they can make you feel comfortable talking haunt you with regret, so put down about whatever is on your mind. I the king can and crack the books! didn’t go there until my third year and I really wish I had used its serChantelle chimes in vices earlier. It’s a great asset to have Making friends might feel diffi- on campus. cult in your first year. Don’t feel bad

Eye candy on campus Treat your eyes to these sweet spots CAROLYNE KROEKER, STAFF

What: Mural by Vladimir Kraynyk Where: Tunnel leading from Extended Education Complex to Architecture 2

What: Wheat-paste fox Where: Burrowed on the right side of Human Ecology

What: Golem’s Pelt by Ben Bonner, Co-Winner of the 2009 Collaboration to Promote Art and Music Award Where: University Centre outdoor plaza

What: Gallery of Student Art (GoSA) Where: University Centre

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Features

Features Editor: Dana Hatherly Contact: features@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

Letters from the presidents DAVID BARNARD, UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA PRESIDENT

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA

It is a great privilege for me to welcome you all, students old and new, to the 2015-2016 school year at the University of Manitoba. For those of you returning to the Fort Garry campus, you will notice some significant changes, particularly the new Active Living Centre and renovations to the Taché Arts Complex. These state-ofthe-art facilities foster engagement with the broader Winnipeg community, enhance the vibrant cultural life of our province, and support students, faculty, staff, and community members in creating healthier lifestyles.

For new students, you will discover the university is a vibrant, dynamic, and inviting community that is above all a place to learn and define yourself. Whatever your interest or passion, I am confident you will find a field you want to explore. You will find instructors and professors with globally recognized expertise

to inspire, educate, and guide you. I hope you will find the U of M to be your academic “home” where you can share and contribute to a diversity of ideas and participate in the wealth of experiences available to you both in and out of the classroom.

Members of the U of M community continue to make advances and have become players on the world stage. Some have been nominated for (and won) Nobel Prizes, while others have developed partnerships with visionaries such as Bill Gates.

Many of our graduates manage international corporations in media, transportation, and entertainment. Across the globe, in 131 countries, there are 132,000 U of M graduates carving their own paths.

And with the Oct. 19 federal election drawing near, I note that several candidates running for office are alumni or have U of M connections, seeking to help lead this country to greater things.

This fall, the university will launch a major philanthropic campaign called Front and Centre. This campaign will help us create a future in which the U of M will be nationally and internationally recognized for its teaching, research, and creative excellence. Through this campaign, the university will be able to provide a more outstanding student experience through new teaching chairs, scholarships and bursaries, and experiential and service-learning opportunities such as student exchanges, co-operative and work placements, undergraduate research, and community service-learning.

JEREMIAH KOPP, UMSU PRESIDENT

Demand for university graduates across Canada continues to increase at all levels, and the majority of job shortages are in fields requiring a university degree. The U of M can help make your dreams of innovation, leadership, or exploration a reality. The skills and knowledge you acquire as a result of your education at this institution will be the keys that will unlock opportunities for future employment in both traditional fields and in those that are just being defined today. Advances in scientific exploration, medical specialization, and social programs are being made every year, and some fields of study in which you may one day work have yet to be created.

When we are surrounded by impassioned teachers, advanced technology and resources for education, inspiring settings in which to learn, and resources at our fingertips, our potential for achieving our goals can be better realized. Students are our future leaders, business professionals, and global citizens, charged with making a better world for all.

From here, you can go anywhere.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JEREMIAH KOPP

I would like to welcome University of Manitoba students to what promises to be another exciting year at your University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU).

UMSU strives to enhance your student experience through events, advocacy, services, and student businesses by offering exciting and wellrounded student opportunities.

Our team has set ambitious goals for the year ahead and I want to clearly communicate how we will be working for you.

One goal is to increase the number of child-care spaces on campus by working with community stakeholders. Another plan is to implement a five-day mental health and wellness fall reading break for the Thanksgiving long weekend.

UMSU will continue working to create positive change through advocacy campaigns on campus about mental health and wellness, sexual

assault, accessibility, and sustainability. We plan to host exciting cultural, academic, and social programming events such as the Frosh and Frost Festivals and speaker series.

We will revitalize student spaces by investing in a capital project to renovate UMSU Street, located on the third floor of University Centre.

UMSU is also working to implement a 10-year strategic plan that establishes a progressive, sustainable, and visionary course of action for the student union’s future as an organization.

We will represent your student interests in a democratic, transparent, and steadfast manner, working with students, staff, administration, government, and the community to create the best possible student experience at the University of Manitoba.

I truly believe that this is an amazing place to go to university. The culture of our campus is changing for the better and we are working to make sure that your student experience is the best that it can be. We have accomplished a lot, but there is more to do. These are some of the best years of our lives, so get involved and help make a difference in your community.

You will make lifelong friendships and memories along the way.

You are always welcome at UMSU – do not hesitate to stop by our offices in University Centre at any time. My door is always open to students!

The sound of campus radio Behind the airwaves at UMFM CRAIG ADOLPHE, STAFF

Any undergraduate or graduate Although UMFM has been students interested in student and operating since September of 1998, community media should be happy the station only established itself as to know that the Manitoban is not autonomous for the first time this alone on campus. For those with a past January when they incorporated predilection for music or the spoken as a separate entity, UMFM Campus word, UMFM, the university’s cam- Radio Inc., during their seven-year pus radio station, is on the third floor license renewal at the suggestion of of University Centre and broadcasts the Canadian Radio-television and on 101.5 FM. Telecommunications Commission.

UMFM features an eclectic Station manager Jared McKetiak programming schedule with con- has been involved with UMFM since tent including, but not limited to, 1999 and has seen hundreds of volpunk, funk, metal, folk, jazz, hip- unteers through the station’s doors. hop, classical, world music, and talk Emphasizing its local focus and radio – mostly written, produced, and open structure, McKetiak said that recorded by local volunteers. They UMFM sets itself apart from a lot also feature popular imports such as of other radio stations in the city by Democracy Now, Radiolab, Radio giving a voice to the voiceless.

Ecoshock, and Exploration, which “I think the number one differis hosted by theoretical physicist ence for us is that our biggest goal, Michio Kaku. first and foremost, is to support local Along with a variety of student music and local arts. We give priorvolunteers, the station’s board of ity to local musicians and we try to directors includes seats reserved for promote Winnipeg’s music scene as student representatives to ensure it is much as possible,” said McKetiak. meeting the needs of students.

“Secondly, we tend to do more

grassroots programming when it comes to spoken word – so you’re going to hear lots of different things in terms of shows, things like alternative politics.”

In addition to playing politics, arts, and culture, the station broadcasts unconventional campus-related stories and sports coverage.

“We’ve got a bunch of different grassroots sports shows. You know, we talk about sports, but not much of it on the professional level. We tend to focus on the stories behind the athletes, plus we do a large focus on campus news and campus events.”

McKetiak said that on top of the listening experience for students, the station is also an excellent place to learn, for those interested in radio.

“We provide training on all different aspects of working in a radio station, from writing and copy, to producing and voicing ads. You can work in our music library or, of course, the big one for a lot of folks is hosting their own radio program.”

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

He suggested that anyone inter- lum for you and get you on your way.” ested in getting involved visit the station to fill out a volunteer application UMFM, the Manitoban, and form. the Gradzette will be cohosting a “We’ll sit down with you. Based media mixer at the Hub on Oct. 1 on that application form we’ll dis- from 5-8 p.m. People interested cuss what sort of interests you might in learning more about campus have and how your time would best media and how to get involved are be served here at UMFM and then welcome to attend the free event. we’ll put together a training curricu-

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

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Features

Features Editor: Dana Hatherly Contact: features@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

Get involved on campus A guide to getting the most out of your degree KASEY RAE MORGAN

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

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very year the same advice is given to students heading to university, whether it’s their first or final year.

You’ve probably heard it, or maybe even said it to someone: “You should get involved on campus!”

While inherently good advice, this phrase and its many variants is useless. For one, it doesn’t leave the listener with any desire to follow it, nor does it tell them anything about what getting involved means or why it’s important. To clear this up, I have constructed a handy-dandy guide to getting involved on campus, and why it really is a good idea.

“But wait,” you say, “what exactly opportunities available, our campus does it mean to get involved on cam- provides hundreds of opportunities pus?” I’m glad you asked. As cliché to go beyond the classroom to create as it sounds, it can mean almost any- a unique experience that interests you. thing – whatever you want it to mean.

Now for the important part: why?

Being involved means participatAside from the obvious entertaining in groups, activities, or organiza- ment value offered by interest-based tions which extend your experience student groups and activities, being on campus beyond the classroom. involved on campus can have some This could include researching with great career benefits. a professor, participating in athletics, Certain opportunities are eligible or attending events on campus like to be tracked on your co-curricular guest lectures and movie nights. record – provided by Student Life From student groups to volun- – meaning that future employers or teering, politics to service-learning graduate schools can see that you and the myriad of programs and job stepped above and beyond to contrib-

ute to your campus community. They there is a plethora of special-interest can also provide valuable life and student groups on campus run by career experience, whether it’s the people just like you. Whether you’re ability to organize events, showcase interested in activism, arts, athletics, your creative or professional abilities, culture, environment, politics, hobor uncover hidden skills. bies, religion, or anything else, there Additionally, becoming involved is more than likely a student group to in student groups and volunteering suit your needs. If not, you can always can help you to network and find found a new one. valuable contacts, references, and If you want to become involved in, friends. It can even extend beyond or learn more about, social change, that – depending on how you choose Student Life provides many services to be involved, you can get personal and opportunities that often go unnosatisfaction in knowing that you have ticed. If you’re interested in travel and helped others, or taken advantage of learning about other cultures, they some of the various off-the-beaten- offer service-learning opportunities path opportunities that not many abroad in places such as Ecuador and people know about.

Tanzania, as well as within the provNow that you can see why getting ince and Winnipeg. Student Life also involved can help you, it’s time for offers several leadership and volunteer you to know how you can enter the programs, and organizes orientation world of campus involvement. at the beginning of each academic If you like to run things and be a year. strong voice for others, you can reach Hopefully you have more of a out to the University of Manitoba sense of what’s available on campus, Students’ Union, or find out more and how you can make the most of about your department or faculty stu- your few years here. The possibilident councils and associations. These ties are endless: you can do as much groups serve to advocate for students or as little as you like, just make it and organize events and activities for memorable. everyone. There are elections every year, so you can have a chance to put For a full list of official student forth your ideas and work with other groups, organizations, associations, people to influence the student expe- and additional ways to get involved, rience for others. visit: https://communitylink.

If you want to connect with peo- umanitoba.ca/organizations ple who have similar interests to you,

Overcoming obstacles on campus A guide to disability services that’ll help you make the most of your university experience STEVEN STAIRS

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

U

niversity can be the best time of your life – or the worst. The key to making it the best time of your life is having the right knowledge and information to achieve goals and gain the experiences you want to have, and having some fun while doing so.

As a disabled student attending classes, there are many things that will come up throughout your campus journey that you may need some

kind of help with tackling.

Student Accessibility Services, located on the main f loor of University Centre across the hall from the Digital Copy Centre, is a great resource for everything you might need. From class accommodations to proctoring, note-taking, test-taking, and more, the folks at Student Accessibility Services will do whatever they can to help you succeed

to your fullest potential.

For any questions you might have regarding student life on campus, housing concerns, community support, or if you just want to have a conversation, the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) has a students living with disabilities representative. Their role is to help with whatever you feel you need help with and to bring those issues up to UMSU council members and executives in order to ensure those needs are addressed.

There is also a great relaxation spot designated for students with disabilities in room 187 in the basement of Helen Glass. Known as the “Safe Space” for those with disabilities, this recently renovated lounge is equipped with a couch, computer, television, fridge, coffee maker, and more. Here you can get your homework done, take a quick nap between classes, and even medicate with your medical marijuana, if you prefer.

If you are a legal patient who uses cannabis, then don’t worry, as the University of Manitoba has a very

liberal stance on medical marijuana. between classes.

In fact, the first official medical mariAnd finally, the Elizabeth Dafoe juana student group in Canadian his- Library has an excellent disability tory sparked up on this campus in reading room. It is private, quiet, and September 2013, which shows it is a has a wheelchair-accessible computer. relatively easy-going place for can- You may not think it now, but during nabis users. your time as a student you will spend more time in a library than you ever thought you would. It is well worth The folks at Student it to spend your time there.

If you use this information and Accessibility Services take advantage of all the opportuniwill do whatever ties offered to you on campus, then I am sure you will have the most they can to help entertaining, enjoyable, and thoughtyou succeed to your provoking time of your life.

Enjoy the next few years of your fullest potential life, get that degree, and make the world a better place for you and those Not to mention the great local around you. places around campus to munch out Peace. at when you are in the mood.

If you are into the outdoors and University of Manitoba alumfresh air, the campus has a plethora nus Steven Stairs is the former of chill outdoor spots along the river UMSU students living with to relax, read a book, or chat with disabilities representative, as friends. Between the amazing scen- well as founder of the Medical ery and architecture, it is a wonderful Marijuana Student Association area to hang out and enjoy downtime

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

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STEM student groups Discover science, technology, engineering, and math opportunities on campus CHANTELLE DUBOIS, STAFF

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hether you are a new or return- work with campus professors and ing student, there are many researchers, as well as a BUGS butstudent groups on campus to get ton and sticker. involved with. For students in science, technology, engineering, or math the Website: https://sites.google. options are numerous. com/site/bugsuofm/home Connect with a student group today and meet other students who Chemistry Formally known as the University share a similar interest. Here is a taste of some opportunities available on of Manitoba Undergraduate campus.

Chemistry Society, Chem Club regularly organizes social events Let’s Talk Science for its members such as Sky Zone Let’s Talk Science Outreach is a trips, movie nights, and barbenational volunteer-based non-profit cues. Fundraisers organized by the organization which brings hands-on, student group include the sale of exciting science activities to school- periodic table of elements cookies. aged children in the classroom and Additionally, the club offers tutoring community for free. The goal of the services for all undergraduate cheminitiative is to increase science literacy istry courses.

Membership is $30 per academic in children, and encourage an interest in science, technology, engineering, year. Members must be students in and mathematics. the faculty of science, registered in a minimum of 18 credit hours over the Website: http://outreach.letstalkfall and winter terms, and either curscience.ca/umanitoba.html rently or previously enrolled in 2000level or higher chemistry courses.

Biology

courses with an admission fee of $20.

Website: http://www.physics.umanitoba.ca/undergraduate/OPUS/

Astronomy

The University of Manitoba Astronomy Club (UMAstro) is open to all students on campus. The organization’s goals are to promote interest and understanding, encourage further study, and raise community awareness of astronomy. The organization also assists members with mentoring for astronomy class tests and exams.

Website: http://www.facebook. com/groups/195179190589480/

Biomedical engineering

UMSAE

Applications and Technology Society The University of Manitoba (UMSATS) is open to all post-secSt udent Chapter of SA E ondary students from any disciplinary International (UMSAE) is open to background. The group participates students from any post-secondary in the Canadian Satellite Design institution and program. This student Challenge, in which universities group is comprised of four design across Canada compete by designteams, each of which focuses on a ing, building, and testing triple-cube distinct vehicle. Over the course of nanosatellites. On top of designing a year, the teams design, build, test, the mechanical, electrical, and softand compete with their vehicles at ware components of the satellite, the official SAE events, learning critical team also must develop a scientific engineering, research, and manage- payload and participate in outreach ment skills. efforts to promote engineering and The Aero Design team designs space. and manufactures an aircraft that Participation with UMSATS can be controlled remotely, with the provides opportunities to develop goal of carrying the heaviest payload skills in engineering, research, design, possible. management, and academic writing.

The Baja team designs and manufactures a lightweight, four-wheel, Website: http://www.umsats.ca all-terrain vehicle which must endure rugged-off road driving in harsh conditions.

The Formula Electric team constructs an electric power-train formula race car to compete in an autocross environment.

The Formula team devises an internal combustion engine formula race car, which competes in an autocross environment.

Joining UMSAE requires members to pay a mandatory fee. To find out more, contact the design team you are interested in joining.

The University of Manitoba Biomedical Engineering Society (UMBMES) is open to all students.

This organization brings together students interested in the biomedical field by organizing tours of relevant facilities, opportunities for research, and events inviting industry experts to interact with members.

Additionally, the organization provides information to its members on courses related to biomedical engineering, information on the local industry, lab access both on and off campus, and opportunities to meet professors on campus who are doing biomedical research.

Website: http://www.umsae.com

The Biology Undergraduate Website: http://home.cc.umanitoba.

Student’s Association (BUGS) is a ca/~davisrl/Chem_Club/index.html relatively new student group on campus which strives to create a com- Physics munity among students interested The Organization of Physics in biology. The group is open to all Undergraduate Students (OPUS) is open to all students on campus. The students.

Membership is $5 for an academic goal of OPUS is to promote interest year, which includes discounts for in further study of physics. food and event admission for BUGS OPUS operates a free drop-in events, academic resources such as tutoring centre for first-year physaccess to past term exam banks and ics courses and hosts review sessions Website: http://www.umbmes.com textbooks, the opportunity to net- for final exams for first year physics

UMSATS

The University of Manitoba Space

Benefits of benevolence The value of student volunteerism LAUREN SIDDALL, STAFF

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he benefits of volunteerism are virtually infinite. Whether you are interested in advancing your employment opportunities, building a network, or making an impact in your community, there are plenty of reasons for you to exercise your altruistic side.

And there is a myriad of media in which you can practice your compassion.

For Lisa Reed, University of Manitoba human nutritional sciences student and long-term volunteer, it was at the Children’s Hospital.

“What are you interested in? What are you passionate about? Find that and work with it. If you want to work at a hospital, that’s great. If you like working with animals, work with animals,” Reed said.

“I was looking for volunteer opportunities and I ended up seeing a poster or something at the univer-

sity. I applied, and they gave me a call and placed me where they felt I’d be a good fit, which happened to be the Children’s Hospital in-patient playroom.”

Reed’s job is to play with the kids at the hospital and keep them entertained – though the parents also appreciate a listening ear.

“I think the most rewarding part for me is seeing kids smile and have fun, even in a stressful situation,” said Reed.

“No matter how stressed you think you are with a paper and a midterm and other assignments, you can’t be stressed when you’re at the Children’s Hospital. What the families are going through is a gazillion times more stressful than what you’re enduring as a student. It really puts things in perspective.”

While volunteerism is advantageous for all involved, it has benefits

that serve students particularly well.

“I think a lot of people would say that the biggest benefit of volunteering is that it looks good on a resume and that it is good to have that kind of experience,” said Reed, who has volunteered at the Children’s Hospital for two and a half years.

“And it helps if you have volunteered somewhere for a while.

Consider it to be a commitment.

Don’t just try it out for a week. Don’t go into it thinking you can just quit. I think that the commitment is important, stick with it.”

But the benefits of volunteering go beyond having something to add to your resume.

“Giving back to the community is a big benefit, too. You get realworld community experience that you wouldn’t get in a classroom and likely wouldn’t get at a job.”

In the classroom – and frankly in

Emily (left) and Lisa (right)

life – we have a tendency to think more about the self than about the things surrounding the self. We live in an individualistic society, where the focus is on getting ahead and not helping others get ahead.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HSC WINNIPEG

Shifting our focus from an individualistic to more collectivist ideology has the potential to radically change our world, and we will all reap the benefits.

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Features

Features Editor: Dana Hatherly Contact: features@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

Library tips Having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card TOM INGRAM, STAFF

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

I

f you’re a new student, you’re prob- behind the desk and usually have very ably overwhelmed by all the fees short loan periods, sometimes on an you’ve just paid. Your tuition is by hourly basis. far the largest of these, but don’t be In addition to the physical items, deceived: the most valuable, in terms the library subscribes to a large numof dollars per unit of education, is the ber of online journals and databases. $40 library fee.

These vary from collections of acaThe University of Manitoba offers demic journal articles to archives to an extensive system of libraries to online specialist encyclopedias. As students, faculty, staff, and commu- a student, you can access most of nity members. As a U of M student, these databases remotely from your everything from scientific journals own computer, and it’s worth your and volumes of German literary time to get to know the ones in your criticism to children’s books and subject area.

Metallica albums is freely available to you. I urge you to learn how the As a student, you can system works and use it to the fullest extent in order to learn as much as access most of these you can during your time here. databases remotely In that spirit, I’d like to provide some information about the libraries from your own and tips on how to make the most out of them. computer, and it’s

Collections and databases

worth your time to get to know the ones in your subject area

The U of M library system consists of 10 branches on the Fort Garry campus, with nine health sciences libraries spread across the Bannatyne campus and Winnipeg’s hospitals.

The central branch is the Elizabeth Dafoe library. The smaller Fort Garry Fines and fees libraries are mostly subject-specific Most items from the library do branches – such as the music, man- not ordinarily carry late fees. This agement, and engineering libraries. means that if you are a few days late Current U of M students can in returning your books at the end take out 200 regular items at a time, of term, you will not be charged for and can place hold requests on up them. However, if you keep an item to 25 items at a time. Ordinary loan so long overdue that it’s declared lost, periods for books are till the end of a fee will be charged to your account. the semester, meaning that for most This fee is waived when you bring items there are three due dates a year the item back – as long as you do so (and you can renew up to three times). within a reasonable amount of time.

Some items, such as CDs, DVDs, Reserve items are the only ones and journals, have shorter loan per- that usually carry late fees – in some iods. Items that have been placed on cases hourly late fees, which can be reserve by faculty or staff are kept quite expensive, so it is unwise to

keep a reserve item overdue. Pieces of arranged in alphanumeric order on difficulty finding an item, you can ask equipment that need to be signed out, the shelves. any librarian or library staff member such as headphones or USB drives, You can also request the item for help. If you’re off campus or just are treated like reserve items. online and have it delivered to the feeling shy, you can ask questions If a normal item that is signed out branch of your choice, but I recom- anonymously through a live chat to you is requested by another patron, mend you don’t do this until you’re service: just click on “ask a librarian” you have a week to return it to the already well acquainted with the on the libraries homepage during library. After that, you are charged stacks. business hours. a late fee.

For the most part the system is forDocument delivery Can’t find what giving and you won’t be charged late The U of M libraries boast a vast fees unless you keep items months collection of books, journals, and you’re looking for? other items, but they don’t have overdue or inconvenience other Why not order it in patrons by keeping reserve items or everything. Can’t find what you’re items they’ve requested. But everylooking for? Why not order it in from from another library? another library? Thanks to interone makes mistakes. What do you do when your account is blocked due library loan agreements, you can order to a large fee?

On the other hand, if you’re look- almost any item as long as it exists in First of all, don’t panic. Return ing for books on a specific topic (e.g. a library somewhere. the overdue items as soon as possible. “ancient Rome”), it’s best to search In my experience, the U of M Lost item fees will be waived shortly online for that topic or keywords libraries have copies of almost all after you return the items. Overdue related to it instead. Find the general the standard readings in just about fines on reserve and requested items call number range where these books every subject (though there are holes, will not be waived, but at least they can be found – typically you want the of course). But once you get into more won’t grow any bigger. first set of letters and numbers (“DG specialized subfields, you’re more Once you’ve returned the overdue 78”). Then go to that area in the stacks likely to run into items that U of M items, speak to a library staff member and look around for titles that jump doesn’t have, and that are difficult to to confirm the status of your account. out at you. get ahold of otherwise.

Looking at the shelf in person is For me, it was clarinet scores.

Finding things an intuitive process that is likely to When I wanted a copy of Arnold The U of M libraries use the produce more surprising and inter- Bax’s clarinet sonata or of Samuel Library of Congress classification esting results than searching online, Coleridge-Taylor’s quintet – obscure system. If you’re familiar with the though searching online is much pieces, but by no means unheard of – Dewey decimal system, used by the faster if you know what you’re look- the U of M music library didn’t have Winnipeg Public Library and many ing for. them. Luckily, other libraries in high school libraries, you may need If you’re looking for journal Canada did, and through document time to adjust. articles or other items that are typ- delivery I was able to get copies of Generally, if you know the title of ically accessed online, you may not these scores sent to me. the item you are looking for, it is best see them in an ordinary catalogue To request an item through docuto use the online catalogue search for search. Often you can find these ment delivery, click the “Document the title and author. Find the item’s items by typing keywords into the delivery” link on the U of M libraries call number (a combination of let- One Stop Search field on the libraries homepage. Fill in the patron request ters and numbers that looks some- homepage. Some results will have a form as best you’re able – a good thing like this: “BR 100 K475 2013”) yellow “Get it @ UML” button on source for information about many and the library branch that holds it, them. Click this button to see how items is WorldCat.org. and go look for it in the stacks at the to get access to the item. appropriate library. Call numbers are Needless to say, if you ever have

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

ILLUSTRATION BY BRAM KEAST

Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture Editor: Seamus Hamilton-Pattison Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

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Every idea has its place Local design competition gives idealistic Winnipeggers ‘a seat at the table’ SEAMUS HAMILTON-PATTISON, STAFF

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PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHAIR YOUR IDEA

n Thursday Aug. 27, local archi- ing table across the Esplanade Riel – “What it means is to take your tecture and design firm 5468796 with Inglis joking that there are “1200 seat at the table. If there’s an idea, Architecture opened public registra- white chairs lying around somewhere, designers, planners, architects, and tion for their new non-profit competi- so let’s bring ‘em out and do another city officials are the ones who make event.” the decision. They happen at a place tion, Chair Your Idea.

The competition is designed to She added in earnest that the that’s removed from the public, so generate both ideas and funds from event was to be one that “really gets it’s an invitation to take a seat at that the community. To do so, Chair people talking about this city, and table and to share their ideas.”

Your Idea challenges Winnipeggers what we can do for it.”

Inglis stated that after the competo submit an idea of no more than In order to get the ball rolling, tition, the focus of Chair Your Idea 140 characters in length along with 5468796 Architecture opened the will make the logical shift to implea $25 registration fee and one white competition to the public by simul- menting and constructing the winchair to commemorate the addition taneously revealing 17 ideas put forth ning idea, stating the possibility of of their idea. The chair must have the by an assortment of prominent local the reoccurrence of the event hinges applicant’s idea, registration number community members. With one on its success in this, its inaugural and www.chairyouridea.ca written glance at the list of names, one sees year and if “Winnipeggers find this is on it, and will be looked after by one a veritable “who’s-who” of Winnipeg a good outlet for sharing their ideas.” of many participating local businesses. with ideas from Mayor Brian Inglis closed by encouraging all The idea itself can be absolutely any- Bowman, morning radio DJ Ace Winnipeggers to participate, stating thing, as long as it fits the required Burpee, improv comedian Stephen that 5468796 Architecture has “tried length and is made with the intention Sim, and many more. Further, each to make it really easy, so that anyone to improve Winnipeg. “celebrity chair” is specially designed can share any idea, all the ideas will 5468796 Architecture hopes to by a local architect or designer, and be heard, and we want to put them raise approximately $30,000 and will be prominently displayed around all together in a public location and receive over 1000 submissions. The the city during the competition, make an idea bank.” competition will run between Aug. while being auctioned off online.

“City council has promised to read 27 and Sept. 17. After that point, all “The intention was just to get as each and every one of them. So if you entries will be judged by a “high-cal- many Winnipeggers involved as have something to say, please share it. ibre jury,” with the funds raised going possible, so we were looking for We’d love to hear it.” towards financing the winning idea. people who were involved in differCaroline Inglis, a partner at ent aspects of the community and of Got an idea to improve Winnipeg’s 5468796 Architecture, told the the city to really help rally everyone urban design and planning? Visit Manitoban that Chair Your Idea was in Winnipeg together for this event,” www.chairyouridea.ca to read conceived as an extension of Table Inglis told the Manitoban. all the rules and regulations and for 1200 – a pop-up dining event According to Inglis, the white register for the competition. that took place in May of last year chairs carry a somewhat symbolic and featured a 1200-foot long din- significance for the event as well.

FKA twigs’s M3LL155X an icon for sexuality, creativity, and empowerment British experimental pop singer-songwriter collaborates with former Beyoncé producer on latest release MICHEL GHANEM, THE MARTLET

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ICTORIA – To FKA twigs’s early as November 2014, but waited spoken-word interlude, flashes of “One, two, three / now hold that powerful anthems, decoding twigs’s most dedicated fans, M3LL155X until after her debut album’s tour explosive sound, and ending with pose for me,” twigs sings on “Glass sexual and psychological desires. (pronounced “Melissa”), or EP3, to release anything officially. Once a deep, eight-second groan – twigs & Patron.” The track was origin“Dress me up, I’m your doll. Love came after what felt like months of completed, twigs named the EP letting go of her unravelled touring ally presented at the 2015 Youtube me rough, I’m your doll,” twigs sings teasing, song releases, and live per- “Melissa” as a way to objectify her state, and regaining autonomy over Music Awards, and picks up where on the track she wrote when she was formances. To the rest of the world, female energy – perhaps to properly herself through vogue.

“In Time” left off – buzzing, bells, a 18. She alludes to the sexual objectifithe five-track release was a complete understand it.

When asked about the track’s cre- driving, fast-paced bass, and singing cation of women by comparing them surprise, dropping without notice “Let me live [...] I feel in ten breaths, ation on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 radio in a higher vocal register. to sex dolls, but is simultaneously or warning on Aug. 13 paired with a it’s a miracle if we’re still alive,” twigs show, she said, “I was just feeling The track is quick and full of admitting the unease and emptiness 16-minute short film of self-directed groans on “Figure 8,” the first track actually quite sad and feeling a bit energy, and reminisces on her past that occurs with her sexual submismusic videos. on M3LL155X. The song, which twigs lost, because after you release a record as a backup dancer. Between hold- sion: “I’m here, I’m here, look into my Following her first EP releases has been performing on tour since you get thrown into this weird world ing poses and “moving alone,” she eyes, and tell me that you’re here too.”

(EP1, EP2), and a critically acclaimed early this year, explains her newfound and it’s difficult to keep hold of who expresses her fatigue of her day-toM3LL155X is a success, and a sign album in August 2014 (LP1), the fascination with vogue dancing. The you are and what you want to do.” day routine in the track: “I wait all of things to come. Twigs’s music is world kept a fascinated and curious voguing scene in New York helped Similarly to “Figure 8,” “In Time” week for a moment’s break away from carefully crafted, riddled with emoeye on FKA twigs. Her name filled her deal with the common feelings of showcases a new vocal range for being told who I am.” tional depth and truths about sexualtabloids and gossip rags digging isolation and sadness that come with twigs, opposite from the quiet, whis“I’m Your Doll” and “Mothercreep” ity and relationships. She finds a way into her private relationship with a gruelling, non-stop tour following pering tone from LP1. The vaguely are similar in production to her first to harness her pain and sadness, and actor Robert Pattinson, while she the release of an album. A represen- ’80s melody captures the emotional EPs, but evolved in terms of depth birth brilliant creativity. For those made waves in the fashion world by tation of eternity in vogue dancing, ache preceding a breakup: “In time, and lyrical brilliance. To the unfamil- who don’t understand the appeal, the appearing in Vogue and showing up twigs would practice her figure-eight your hands on my body will resonate iar, the tracks can be difficult to fol- heavy melancholy behind her words, at the very exclusive Met Gala. in the mirrors of hotel rooms. through me, like they did before.” low through the layers of sound and or the twitching sounds in her songs, With the help of Boots, a musiThe light, repetitive percussions The track is refreshing, light, and vocals, completely opposite from you are missing out on one of the cian known for his production of are reminiscent of the previously radio-friendly – unlike everything tracks like “Two Weeks.” Once most creative individuals of our time.

Beyoncé’s self-titled fifth album, released singles “Water Me” and twigs has ever produced, and a sig- unpacked and understood, the dark twigs reportedly finished the EP as “Video Girl,” combined with a hushed nificant change in her melodic style. tracks become underestimated, – National University Wire

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Beautiful by design CommerceDesignWinnipeg commemorates exceptional design of public spaces LAUREN SIDDALL, STAFF

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eautification is a common goal for most metropolises. Cities quickly turn into masses of concrete where buildings become cookie-cutter and plants growing in the cracks of pavement offer the only hint of vibrance.

Enter CommerceDesign.

CommerceDesignWinnipeg – an initiative of StorefrontMB, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the awareness of architecture, design, and urbanism, in partnership with Downtown Winnipeg BIZ – aims to motivate local merchants to improve the aesthetic of their businesses and thus, improve the aesthetic of our city.

“CommerceDesign is a program that rewards businesses for investing in the quality of their establishments and by doing so, hopefully encourages more businesses to do the same.

It recognizes that storefront businesses are important extensions of public spaces, streetscapes, and places, and have a significant impact on the image of our city,” explained David Penner, StorefrontMB president.

Though this is only the third year the program has been in Winnipeg, CommerceDesign has already had a positive effect on cities globally – including New York, Luxembourg, and Marseilles – after being established in Montreal 20 years ago.

The sustained efforts of CommerceDesign in the founding city have proven to the public, and

quality urban environment.”

CommerceDesign works by framing the initiative as a contest to captivate the competitive.

“Each year, the contest begins with a call for entries from the business and design communities. A jury of professional designers and distinguished laypeople is assembled to review the submissions and tour the facilities, a process that takes a day “Our ultimate and a half,” said Penner.

“Jurors look for interior design goal is for all new and storefronts that are harmonious, businesses to invest functional, and strengthen the branding of the businesses themselves. They in the quality of their should demonstrate that high quality establishments and design is more than the sum of its parts. Or even better, they create a for Winnipeg to milieu that inspires, surprises, and foster its reputation lifts people.”

From there, the polls open to as an emerging city the public to determine the People’s Choice winner. Between July 31 and of design” – David Oct. 31, patrons are encouraged to Penner, StorefrontMB visit the vendors and vote online for “the most beautiful business” of those president pre-selected by the jurors.

The Winnipeg contestants for this “The program was developed year include SMITH, Lunch Bell PHOTOS BY LAUREN SIDDALL and fine-tuned by Montreal over a Bistro, the Merchant Kitchen & Bar, number of years and has proven to Yoga Public, Beet Happening, and positively influence how high qual- Green Apple Skateboard Shop – with businesses to invest in the qual- For more information and to vote ity design is valued. It fosters a hun- the winner receiving a significant ity of their establishments and for for your favourite, visit comger for all things design,” explained promotional campaign to reinforce Winnipeg to foster its reputation as mercedesignwinnipeg.ca Penner. an emerging city of design.” their efforts of beautification.

“Big picture, it promotes a higher “Our ultimate goal is for all new to business owners, the value of good design. The program was created with the goal of encouraging Montreal merchants and restaurant owners to invest in the design quality of their establishments. After 10 successful years of the program, the city obtained designation as a UNESCO City of Design in 2006.

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Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture Editor: Seamus Hamilton-Pattison Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

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Sports

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

Bison soccer spotlight Previewing Manitoba’s key players for the 2015-16 Canada West season ANDY CHE, VOLUNTEER STAFF

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s the CIS soccer season draws tively, will push Werle for the number nearer, the University of one jersey, something that head coach Manitoba Bisons will have a collec- Vanessa Martinez-Lagunas refers to tive goal in mind: to improve on last as a “positive rivalry.” season.

The team missed the postseason in Martinez-Lagunas is 2014-15 following a 4-4-4 record in the Canada West Prairie Division. The gradually turning a Bisons have added eight fresh faces to their squad over the off-season, squad with youthful meaning their key players will have exuberance into a to assume more instrumental roles for the 2015-16 campaign. Here is a core of talent who breakdown of this talented squad’s can rival any side players to keep an eye on for the upcoming season.

in Canada West

with the Bisons.

In a 1-0 victory over the Minnesota-Crookston Golden Eagles during their preseason finale last Friday, the Bisons coach fielded all four of her goalkeepers. In the post-match interview, she welcomed competition within the squad.

“They are a team but they also know that they are competing for a spot. Each player makes the other players better and the whole team better,” Martinez-Lagunas said.

Defenders

Elyce Molyneaux, the Bisons’ most senior defender, enters her fifth Goalkeepers year of eligibility. The spirited leftHeading into her final year of Last year, the frequent Bisons back will also endure more than a fair CIS eligibility, captain Chloe Werle starter underwent surgery in the off- share of leadership on the backline, as enters the new season resuming season, which kept her sidelined for the next two most senior defenders the position of first-choice stop- the entirety of the 2014-15 campaign. – Kayla Gagliardi and Robyn Coffey per. Fellow goalkeepers Brittany Having lost a year in her CIS career, – are only in their third season.

MacSween and Martina Arran, in Werle will be looking to make up for Despite her primary defensive role, their third and fourth years respec- lost time before hanging up the gloves Molyneaux plays a two-way style that

PHOTOS BY CHANTAL ZDAN

includes the occasional run up the left flank. Possessing such versatility allows her to join to the attack, especially through whipping crosses into the box from wide areas.

Manitoba’s diverse group of midfielders is very well-suited for their style of play, by controlling matches with the depths of the midfield area Midfielders

figure, which allows her to retain a more key position.

Forwards

Perhaps the greatest weapon in Martinez-Lagunas’s arsenal is Bruna Mavignier. With a tremendous skill set honed in her native Brazil, the gifted striker is the complete attacking package.

Confident with using both feet and her head, Mavignier impressively led the Bisons with eight goals last season as a freshman. The Bisons coach is expecting more of the same for the upcoming season.

“She’s really unpredictable and has great technique. Last year was her first year and she scored many goals for us,” Martinez-Lagunas said.

“She finished as third-best goalscorer in Canada West so we hope she gets into the zone again this year and scores many goals for us.”

Aside from her ability to score goals, she possesses an astonishing work rate in dribbling past opponents.

On more than one occasion, she has succeeded in leaving two or three of her opposing defenders in the dust on just one run.

Already having shown a lot of promise, Mavignier’s hopes remain high that both she and the Bisons can live up to the hype.

“I have high expectations. I think the team is more mature,” said Mavignier, following her performance against the Golden Eagles on Friday.

“We have more chemistry and have been working really hard so I think we’re going to have a better season than last year.”

Manitoba’s diverse group of midfielders is very well-suited for their style of play: controlling matches with the depths of the midfield area.

The collective skill set of players in the middle and out wide makes the Bisons a difficult team to dispossess.

With a very senior-based group at that position, Manitoba also retains a very high soccer IQ in midfield – a crucial element in both their attacking and defending options.

At the base of midfield is Amanda Wong. Primarily a central figure, Wong possesses a dynamic skill set with a precise first touch, a vast range of passing with both feet, and a knack for creativity with the ball.

Capable of performing both a defensive and attacking role, expect for Wong to be used to greater effect in 2015-16. She was also recently handed the honor of being a captain – an incredible feat for being only in her second season.

Coach Vanessa In a more advanced midfield posi- Martinez-Lagunas tion, Megan Graca provides the team As the days count down to openwith creativity in and around the pen- ing night, it is evident that the alty area. A fourth-year playmaker Manitoba Bisons are gearing up for that is very positionally sound, Graca a playoff push. In her third year at the can also handle the duties of handling reins, Martinez-Lagunas is graduset pieces. ally turning a squad with youthful Confident with the ball at her feet, exuberance into a talented core who Selina Speranza is a tricky figure can rival any side in Canada West. on the flanks. Capable of performThe former Bayern Munich player ing on either side of midfield, the and German National Team coach fourth-year winger is quick-footed has already implemented two objecand fearless when taking on opposing tives over the course of the season. defenders. Speranza also combines She was very straightforward when creativity with playmaking as she has asked what she would consider a sucthe vision to deliver crosses from the cessful campaign. wide areas with both feet.

“The first goal is to improve our As Alyssa Robinson has proven, record from last year. We want to she is not afraid to have a crack at do better than last year,” Martinezgoal. Her brilliant strike from dis- Lagunas said. tance in Manitoba’s final preseason “The second objective is we want to match certainly confirmed her nose make it to the playoffs. Last year we for the net. Heading into her final were very close to making it. We were season of eligibility, Robinson will be fighting for a spot until the last weekeyeing the chance to score a few more end. This year we are really, really goals before bowing out of the CIS. excited and we will do our best to Though primarily a left-side achieve those two goals.” midfielder, Robinson could also be deployed more centrally this season, Martinez-Lagunas and the Manitoba which allows her a more favorable Bisons kick off the season hosting the sight and angle at the opposition goal. Thompson Rivers Wolfpack on Sept. 4.

However, with Graca and Wong typically starting at centre midfield, she could also be used as a defensive

VOL. 102 NO. 4 September 2, 2015

The final countdown Bisons win final preseason friendly against Minnesota-Crookston with Robinson wonder-goal ANDY CHE, VOLUNTEER STAFF

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he Manitoba Bisons women’s soccer team is set to kick off their 2015-16 season to the right tempo following a victory in their final preseason match, hosting Minnesota-Crookston on Friday night. A 1-0 score was enough to clinch their third win in five friendly games, before entering the competitive season next week at home against Thompson Rivers.

In a thrilling match which saw the Bisons out-compete the Golden Eagles in the final third, Alyssa Robinson scored the lone goal with a scintillating strike from long range.

First half

a post-match interview.

Moments after going up 1-0, Mavignier won a free kick in a promising position. The Bisons attempted to replicate Notts County’s famous deceptive free kick goal against Arsenal Ladies, which featured a fake argument before a player hit the dead-ball on target.

In the end, 1-0 was enough for the Bisons to hang on to a deserved victory

Second half

Martinez-Lagunas introduced her third goalkeeper of the match after halftime. Calgary native Brittany MacSween was tested within minutes of coming on, quickly smothering a partial breakaway. Just seconds later, the Bisons ran into some injury trouble when defender Kailyn Balfour was forced to come off. The freshman injured her left knee after colliding with an Eagles player.

Late in the match, the Golden Eagles gained momentum and began to exploit the flanks through winger Delaney McIntyre. The Manitoba native gave the Bisons back-line some concern with her long bursts of speed, yet generated few chances.

The Bisons nearly clinched an insurance goal within the final few minutes.

First, they slammed the crossbar after a barrage of desperate attempts. Mavignier then twinkled around three defenders and forced a timely save out of Golden Eagles substitute goalkeeper Olivia Mecham on Manitoba’s final attack.

In the end, 1-0 was enough for the Bisons to hang on to a deserved victory. If Robinson’s wonder-strike is any indication of what is to come, then this group of talent will be a very lethal team in the CIS.

Manitoba looked to be the livelier side right from the get-go, On this occasion, Manitoba attacking early and often. Striker nearly executed the plan to perfecBruna Mavignier already created tion. Megan Graca took the run-up, two chances within the first five while Amanda Wong curled a dead minutes, which included a spec- ball just wide of the far post. tacular acrobatic effort that sailed Having the confidence of planjust over the bar. ning a seemingly unachievable set Golden Eagles goalkeeper Lexie piece shows the Bisons’ freedom in Gauger was forced into action mid- the game. In the bigger picture, it way through the first half when a emphasizes the philosophy of coach deflected cross from the left flank Vanessa Martinez-Lagunas.

“We need to enjoy each single fell for Selina Speranza inside the box. Gauger smartly smothered the game. Enjoy the game, play free chance to keep the Bisons at bay. and play like we play usually. That At 35 minutes, the home side is what I want to see during the drew first blood. From 25 yards out, games,” said the third year bench Robinson unleashed a cracking shot boss. that caught the crossbar and post The Bisons continued to press for before nestling over the line. The a second goal before halftime, com- The regular season kicks off goal marked a true touch of genius, ing closest at 42 minutes. Mavignier next week, on Sept. 4 when the and Mavignier was quick to express provided a ball for Alanna Shaw, University of Manitoba hosts her delight about the midfielder. who forced a decent save out of the Thompson Rivers Wolfpack.

“It was so amazing, it was a really Gauger inside the area. On the beautiful goal. I’m so proud of her. I ensuing corner kick, Mavignier hope she can score more goals dur- had a goal-bound header cleared ing the season,” said Mavignier in off the line.

PHOTOS BY CHANTAL ZDAN

Sports

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Getting a leg up How the new High Performance Centre has helped the women’s soccer team prepare for the 2015 season RYAN STELTER, VOLUNTEER STAFF

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his season, the University of their newfound knowledge of the Manitoba Bisons will be using devices at an elite level. According to Martinez-Lagunas, having the some new technology.

The High Performance Centre knowledge in training is one of for Bison athletes is right across the first steps to upping your game from the new Active Living Centre and potentially making it to the on the U of M’s Fort Garry Campus. national level, much like Olympic The women’s soccer team is one of bronze medallist and former U of many squads taking advantage of M standout Desiree Scott. this new facility.

“If we develop more athletes of “Having that facility has Desiree’s calibre, then all of them increased the motivation level of are going to be trained, and they the players 100 times,” said wom- will know how to work with this en’s soccer head coach Vanessa equipment, so it wouldn’t be new Martinez-Lagunas. “Sometimes to them,” Martinez-Lagunas said. we have to say that’s enough, time The U of M’s strength and conto go home.” ditioning coach Matt Barr also aids The High Performance Centre Martinez-Lagunas by overseeing has professional equipment that no the athletes’ progression. other Canadian universities, and Barr is a former elite-level rugby not many other NCAA schools, player who holds a masters of scihave. ence degree in biomechanics and “We have the best sporting coaching from the University of facilities in Canada, and the best Western Ontario. He is also a certiequipment in Canada,” Martinez- fied strength and conditioning speLagunas said. “Not even NCAA cialist with the National Strength Division 1 schools have what we and Conditioning Association, have now, so it’s fantastic.” and holds a Level II Olympic One example is the Smart Scan Weightlifting certification. system, which uses LED lights to The U of M alumnus has helped measure an athlete’s acceleration change the culture of strength and and responsiveness, captured on the conditioning on campus by making 30-metre track inside the facility. training sessions mandatory.

The Smart Scan technology aids “[Strength and conditioning] has in fitness tests and motivates the become a lot more structured and a players to always improve and get lot more scientific,” Barr told UM better by milliseconds.

Today. “Now, it’s at the point where Other new technology includes it’s an essential part of the training devices connected to barbells to that’s incorporated.” track velocity, and a computer sysPut all these aspects into play, tem to log data. Each individual and the herd has the recipe for also has a personalized wristband, a winning formula, which will which they use in connection with hopefully lead to a playoff berth the Smart Scan to track progress. this season.

There are two advantages to having this top-level equipment. It not only helps the athletes improve their overall performance, but also gives them the chance to use

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

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Sports

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

Sizing up the competition A preview of the 2015 Canada West football conference MIKE STILL, STAFF

last season.

The two most notable returns offensively have to be quarterback Andrew Buckley and centre Sean McEwen, who were both 2015 CFL draft picks that opted to return to Calgary.

Buckley has done everything possible for the Dinos except win the Vanier Cup, and will look to complete one of the most impressive CIS careers in recent memory in 2015.

Having McEwen – who was drafted third overall by Toronto and is a twotime All-Canadian – will surely help.

The offence will also have 2013

T

he University of Manitoba Bisons football squad enter the 2015 season as defending Canada West Conference champs, and look to be in fine form.

The herd are coming off a 33-33 tie last weekend against 2014 Yates Cup finalist Guelph, however Manitoba’s first team simply demolished their OUA opponent, outscoring the Gryphons’ starters 18-0 at the half, before the second- and third-teamers entered the game in the third and fourth quarter.

While Manitoba appears primed and ready to make another Vanier Cup run, the rest of the conference is nipping at their heels, looking to seize the Hardy Cup. Below is a preview of the other five Canada West teams, and how they stack up compared to the Bisons for the upcoming year.

UBC Thunderbirds (2-6 record in 2014, missed playoffs)

then you clearly haven’t been watching enough CIS football. Nill has engineered the turnaround of two separate programs in the past, helping Saint Mary’s win their first Vanier Cup in 28 years in 2001, and guiding Calgary to their first Hardy Cup title in 13 years in 2008. Overall, Nill has appeared in seven Vanier Cup games as a head coach, winning two.

Over 30 impact players from different locations across Canada and the United States chose to come to UBC this season, and for most of them, it was Nill that was the deciding factor

If you were to look at UBC’s record in 2014, you wouldn’t assume they would be a contender for the Nill’s arrival was critical from not coming season. Things can change only a coaching standpoint, but also very quickly in Canada West how- from a recruiting standpoint. He was ever, and in the Thunderbirds’ case, able to secure some of the best talent it should be for the better. within Canada and pluck a few locals One of the biggest shifts in the back from south of the border. off-season for UBC didn’t involve That number included six-foota player. Instead it was a coaching five quarterback Michael O’Connor change, which should make the (Penn State), six-foot-two linebacker T-Birds an immediate contender in Troy Hansen (North Dakota), and 2015. six-foot-three defensive back Taylor Blake Nill will begin his first year Loffler (Boise State). Over 30 impact at the helm for UBC this season, and recruits from different locations if you’re not familiar with his name, across Canada and the United States

chose to come to UBC this season, and for most of them it was Nill that was the deciding factor.

The newest Thunderbirds got their first chance to shine this past Saturday, taking on perennial powerhouse Laval. While this was still a pre-season game, UBC proved that they’re going to be in the hunt this season, with an impressive 41-16 win over the Rouge et Or, who have won seven of the last 12 Vanier Cups.

O’Connor, Hansen, and Loffler all stood out in this one. O’Connor finished with 292 yards passing and two touchdowns, while Hansen had eight tackles and a sack, and Loffler recorded six tackles and an interception.

Overall, the UBC defence picked off Laval’s Hugo Richard four times.

While it’s not the regular season yet, that’s still saying something, as Richard threw just four interceptions in the entirety of the 2014 season, and was also the leading passer in the entire CIS. Long story short, with Blake Nill leading the troops, the Thunderbirds are going to be very dangerous in 2015.

Calgary Dinos (6-2 record in 2014, lost to Manitoba in Canada West final)

As mentioned above, UBC’s gain was Calgary’s loss, as the Dinos will start the 2015 season without Nill for the first time since 2005. While his loss is unfortunate, it shouldn’t faze Calgary too much, as they return a number of key starters for 2015, and will look for redemption after their Hardy Cup streak was halted at six

Alberta Golden Bears (3-5 record in 2014, missed playoffs)

The Golden Bears haven’t reached the post-season since 2010, and while they should improve again in 2015, it’s not likely that trend will change.

Alberta graduates starting quarterback Curtis Dell, which is a huge loss. The team will hopefully make up for a potential decline through the air by having a strong run game – which was second in total yards in the conference in 2014, with 1,323. Ed Ilnicki, who had 655 rushing yards last season, will be the leader in that Canada West MVP Mercer Timmis capacity. Jimmy Ralph and Tylor in the backfield, along with 2014 All- Henry will be leaned on as veterans Canadian Brett Blaszko and 2013 in the receiving corps.

Canada West Rookie of the Year Defensively, Alberta will rely on Rashaun Simonise at the receiver a pair of linebackers to set the tempo. positions. Without a question, aside Connor Ralph, who led the Canada from Manitoba, Calgary boasts the West in 2014 with 61.5 tackles, along most dangerous combination of with Tommy Tsoumpas, who had 47.5 weapons on the offensive side. tackles, should both pick up where Defensively, the Dinos return they left off. all five starters in the secondary, as well as frequent playmakers Doctor Regina Rams (3-5 record Cassama and Tanner Doll – a fourth- in 2014, lost to Calgary in round draft pick by the Ottawa Canada West semi-final) Redblacks in 2015 – at the linebacker With new coach Mike Gibson at position. the helm, 2015 will be a transition If there’s anyone that’s going to period for the Rams. While they knock Manitoba off the top of the made the playoffs on the strength conference this year, it’s going to be of their passing game last season, Calgary.

Regina will likely be watching from home this year.

Saskatchewan Huskies Noah Picton will have full control (6-2 record in 2014, lost of the offence this year, after taking to Manitoba in Canada over as a rookie midway through West semi-final) the 2014 campaign, where he finDespite consistently being near ished with over 2,000 yards passing. the top of the standings, the Huskies Unfortunately, he loses both Addison have fallen to Manitoba in the con- Richards and Jared Janotta, who ference semi-finals in each of the were both in the top 10 in the CIS in past two seasons. With UBC now receiving yards last year. nipping at their heels, 2015 is going While Regina still has a few to be a much bigger challenge for playmakers at the receiver position, Saskatchewan. they will lean more heavily on the The team returns Drew Burko, run game in 2015, with young stud who finished fifth in the CIS in Atlee Simon carrying the mail. He 2014 in passing yards with 2,256, at had 524 yards rushing in 2014, and quarterback. He’ll have Mitch Hillis coupled with a veteran offensive line, – who had an impressive pre-season Simon will help keep the pressure off performance against Wilfrid Laurier, of Picton entirely. as well as 2014 leading receiver John The defence is incredibly young and thin in experience, and will rely Trumpy back as targets.

In the backfield, Shane Buchanan, on third-year linebacker and former Jarvis James, and Tyler Chow provide Canada West All-Star Michael the Huskies with valuable experience, Stefanovic to pick up the slack in and depth. All three players had at what will largely be a development least 50 carries and 250 yards rushing year. last season.

Defensively, Saskatchewan loses conference interception leader Mark Ingram, but maintains linebacker

Defensively, the Dinos return all five starters in the secondary, as well as frequent playmakers Doctor Cassama and Tanner Doll

PHOTO BY JEFF MILLER

Geoffrey Hughes, who had 38 total tackles in 2014. The biggest acquisition for the Huskies on the defensive side has to be Donovan Dale, who transfers over from UBC. He was a first-team All-Canadian in 2013, and a second-team All-Canadian last year, and immediately makes the defensive line a strength.

Saskatchewan will still compete for a playoff spot this year, but will likely not find themselves in the top two in the conference.

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Tackling his battles Bison safety Tyler Fong proves no challenge is too tough to overcome MIKE STILL, STAFF

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yler Fong has been forced to make a few adjustments during his football career. The first was adapting to a change in rules while in junior.

The second was moving provinces to pursue his CIS dreams. The third?

Well, that was saving his own life.

Fong grew up in British Columbia, and started playing football in grade nine for a now dominant Mount Douglas program. He played both ways, as a quarterback and a defensive back, winning a provincial championship in the process.

While he played on the provincial team as a quarterback, Fong was ultimately recruited to local Simon Fraser University for 2011, to play defensive back. After a year there, he made the move to junior football, playing for the Westshore Rebels as a safety in 2012.

The most intriguing part of his shift in 2012 was the fact that in junior football, they play Canadian rules, whereas in high school in BC, as well as at Simon Fraser – where the team plays in the NCAA, they play American rules, with a smaller field and 11 players as opposed to 12.

“It was interesting. I’d never played Canadian football before – like the Canadian rules – so that was nice prep to coming to the CIS,” Fong said.

The next jump for Fong occurred played in a system really like that,” now looked upon as a leader and men- northwest of Victoria, Fong fell 156 when he left the island behind the Fong said. “It was just nonstop study- tor for this squad. feet after slipping on a wet rock that following year in favour of the Bisons. ing for me, which was was near the edge of a “[Head coach Brian] Dobie called probably a good thing. waterfall. Falling headme one day. I never thought of any- All I did was get in my first, he knew he had a That commitment to the system has thing about Manitoba before, and dorm room and just better chance of surpaid off for Fong, who’s amassed then he called me up and talked to study and make sure I vival if he flipped himme and got me out here,” Fong said. knew everything I was self over, and landed 40 tackles and five interceptions in Entering a new province, and a doing so I could put with his feet to protect his first two years with the herd team with a complicated coverage myself in the best situagainst a broken neck. scheme that already has a relatively ation I could.”

Fong did so in the nick That commitment experienced secondary, presents its of time, with just over fair share of challenges. Fong, how- to the system has paid off for Fong, This off-season though, Fong was three seconds to make the adjustment. ever, took them head-on, landing the who’s amassed 40 tackles and five faced with his biggest barrier, and it “Something told me to just throw starting safety spot in his first season interceptions in his first two years didn’t occur on the gridiron. my hands up, and I just managed to – a position he has held onto ever since. with the herd. With a large core of While taking a hike with a friend somehow come around,” Fong said.

“Coming in it was tough. I’d never rookies entering the fold in 2015, he’s at Goldstream Provincial Park, just While he suffered a broken rib

PHOTO BY TARA MILLER

and punctured lung, Fong pushed through and made it for Bisons training camp back at full health.

“My main goal was just to be in the best shape possible, so I could play this season. That was on my mind,” Fong said.

If you were to watch the starting safety out on the field this season, you’d be hard pressed to tell that Fong was ever involved in a near death experience. But that’s just secondnature now for a guy that’s proven he can consistently break down the barriers that are in his way.

Rowers tame rough waters Winnipeg Rowing Club captures Lipton Cup in 112th NWIRA Championship MIKE STILL, STAFF

O

n Friday, Aug. 21 and Saturday, Aug.22, the Winnipeg Rowing Club (WRC) sent 43 athletes to Regina to compete in the North West International Rowing Association (NWIRA) Championship Regatta. The regatta is an annual competition between Canadian and American midwestern rowers. This was the 112th instalment of the competition, which began in 1886.

In 2015, there were 486 entries from nine different clubs, and the Winnipeg Rowing Club came out on top, winning the prized Lipton

Cup. The cup is awarded to the club the weekend.

Despite the setback, the WRC entire club all summer,” Erickson that wins the most overall points, Saturday featured winds of up still managed to gain enough said. “Despite the weather and and for the second time since to 80 kilometres per hour, with points to win the cup, includ- cancelled races, we pulled through 2012, it was the Winnipeg ing gold medals in master and it was well worth it!” squad who accomplished women’s, men’s, and mixed The regatta is a culmination of Despite the setback, the WRC squad, as well as master wom- the entire club’s hard work all seathat feat, after coming in second overall in both 2013, en’s and men’s single. son, but teamwork is also imperstill managed to gain enough and 2014.

Emily Erickson, a cur- ative. Due to the nasty weather, The two-day competirent U of M student, was that was emphasized even more. points to win the cup tion was quite taxing for one of the members of “Our club always looks forward every club due to the nasty the Lipton Cup-winning to this regatta, because it’s not so weather system that moved in on sideways rain and huge waves. The WRC squad, and was very pleased much about individual success, Saturday. Some of the second nine clubs battled the conditions, with how the team pulled through but all teams at the Winnipeg day’s races were moved to Friday with the exception of the larger the tough conditions.

Rowing Club working together as a precaution, which made for boat races, which ended up being “It was an awesome win for us, for a common goal,” Erickson said. a long, and strenuous opening to cancelled. as it has been a major goal for the