29 October 2014

Transit talk Your stop for U-Pass information Pages 4-5 and 8

Creepy creations Check out our colourful Halloween celebration Pages 12-13

Blue Dot Tour David Suzuki stops in Winnipeg to discuss the importance of the environment Pages 7 & 14

Vo l 1 0 1 路 N o 4 0 路 O c to b e r 2 9 , 2 0 1 4 路 w w w.t h e m a n i to b a n .co m

Index

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VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

Cover image 1.

Carolyne Kroeker Cover image 2.

Scott Ford Cover image 3.

Carolyne Kroeker

Editor-in-Chief Bryce Hoye

editor@themanitoban.com / 474.8293

Business manager Angela England

accounts@themanitoban.com / 474.6535

Advertising Coordinator Sara Bulloch

ads@themanitoban.com / 474.6535

Editorial

Senior News Editor Dana Hatherly

news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

News Editor Craig Adolphe

news@themanitoban.com/ 474.6770

Comment Editor Tom Ingram

News

comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Filling vacant seats

Managing Editor Fraser Nelund

me@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

science & technology Editor Chantelle Dubois

science@themanitoban.com/ 474.6529

UMSU appoints community representatives

arts & Culture Editor Lauren Siddall

arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Sports Editor Mike Still

sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Copy Editor Carlyn Schellenberg

page 6

copy@themanitoban.com/ 474.6520

Editorial

Design

Design Editor Bradly Wohlgemuth

O Canada

design@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

Graphics Editor Bram Keast

Altering the anthem is a poor way to thank True North

graphics@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

Photo Editor Carolyne Kroeker

photo@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

design associate Scott Ford

scott@themanitoban.com

graphics associate Evan Tremblay

evan@themanitoban.com

page 11

Reporters

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

Volunteer Contributors

Norman Wong Shawn Coates Bruce Zinger Jesse Greenberg April Plett Photography

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Checkmate

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Setting the record

Across the Board game café captures the attention of the Exchange District

page 17

Evil Dead: The Musical rips into the Park Theatre

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A closer look at Pischke's career page 23

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3

News

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

Winnipeg under new management New mayor, St. Norbert councillor support U-Pass, bus rapid transit expansion Ethan Cabel, staff

Winnipeg students and University of In addition to these changes , city brightest young minds in the city,” future, the politics of tomorrow, the Manitoba undergraduate and gradu- hall governance is slated to change said Bowman, a U of M alumnus. politics that will make our city a more ate students slated to be included in considerably under Bowman.

“But really it’s going to come down interesting, dynamic, attractive, magthe cost of tuition – the mayor-elect The mayor-elect has vowed to to making sure there’s a growing, netic environment for young people,” expressed support for the student-led only appoint councillors to his execu- thriving economic development ini- Mcleod Arnould said. proposal. tive policy committee (EPC)—the tiative and a lot of good, high-paying He added that left-leaning candi“I fully support it and I’ll do what- mayor’s de facto cabinet—that are jobs here in Winnipeg.” dates like Jenny Gerbasi (Fort Rouge) ever I can to make sure that it hap- elected by a majority council vote.

According to data from and Ross Eadie (Mynarski)—both pens sooner rather than later,” he said. This means that, unlike his prede- the Canadian Socioeconomic backed by the provincial NDP in Bowman added that bus rapid tran- cessors, he will be unable to handpick Information Management System 2010 and the Canadian Union of sit—including transit-oriented hous- the members of his inner circle. database by Statistics Canada for Public Employees and the Winnipeg ing and commercial development—is 2011-2012, four major prairie cit- Labour Council in 2014—better fit an integral part of his agenda for the ies—Regina, Saskatoon, Edmonton that description. next four years. and Calgary—have experienced a “The mayor is a net gain in migration among people A new face for St. Norbert “For those Winnipeggers conpretty powerful between 20-29 years-of-age. On the cerned with suburban growth and St. Norbert—the city ward that other hand, Winnipeg has experi- includes the U of M—also has a new suburban sprawl, this really is a sigperson, but at the innipeg is under new manage- nificant piece of the puzzle when it enced a net loss. councillor after last week’s election. ment, and citizens, along with comes to growing up as much as we’re Janice Lukes, a former commuend of the day they University of Manitoba students, can growing out.”

Student unions respond nity assistant for past St. Norbert have one vote” – Jino expect big changes over the next four In response to the civic elec- councillor Justin Swandal, won the Bowman has big plans on issues years. tion, UMSU and the University of seat. Lukes told the Manitoban she is that resonate with students and young Distasio, University That is the message of mayor-elect professionals: high-density developWinnipeg Students’ Association committed to working with UMSU of Winnipeg Brian Bowman, the 43-year-old pri- ment, a strengthened technology (UWSA) reacted differently. and other student groups to facilitate vacy lawyer. With 111,504 votes (47.5 sector, and an improved transit sys- associate vice“We supported the vote and the greater communication between stuper cent ) Bowman won the race for tem. Two experts interviewed by the democratic process but we certainly dents and city council. president of research did not endorse a candidate because mayor last week over a crowded field Manitoban—political analyst Curtis “I would like to be able to regularly of candidates that included former Brown and city politics expert Jino we knew we’d have to work with engage and understand what some and innovation frontrunner Judy Wasylycia-Leis, a Distasio—argued that the mayorwhomever won,” said Al Turnbull, of the student issues and challenges are and opportunities they see,” she past New Democratic Party mem- elect could face an uphill battle to UMSU president. ber of parliament and member of the fund these measures without a subTurnbull added that he is hopeful said, adding that the key to keeping legislative assembly.

“The mayor is a pretty powerful UMSU can work with Bowman and young people in Winnipeg is ecostantial tax increase – let alone to get “This was a clear demonstration them passed by city council. person, but at the end of the day new St. Norbert Councillor Janice nomic development. that Winnipeggers were ready for “He has no specific political experi- they have one vote,” said Distasio, Lukes when it comes to the U-Pass “We have to have job opportunities. positive change,” Bowman told the ence,” said Brown, vice-president at associate vice-president of research and other transit initiatives.

So this council, going forward, we “That was a staunch contrast with must focus on economic development Manitoban.

Winnipeg-based polling firm Probe and innovation at the University of “You can win a campaign without Research. Brown added that the city Winnipeg. Distasio argued that rela- the UWSA but, mind you, they wear and generating economic revenue having to sell out and become part of faces a severe budget shortfall in 2015. tionship building will be crucial to their colours a little bit bolder or more that will help us create a vital, excitthe problem and part of the old-school “This is his first full-on, true any policy success Bowman may have apparently than we do here. We try ing city to live in.” negative politics that previously [have] elected office and I think there is over the next four years. to be inclusive to all students because Lukes brings transportation going to be a very steep learning worked and been very effective.”

“He needs to figure out a way to we know a lot of the students have expertise to the job, having served Bowman, who proposes to raise curve for him just in terms of figur- surround himself with councillors— voted for different candidates across on the active transportation adviproperty taxes no more than the ing out how things work and how to regardless of EPC or council floor— the board.” sory committee that informed the annual rate of inflation, ran on a get his agenda passed.” that are going to support his ideas.”

Rorie Mcleod Arnould, UWSA first phase of the city’s rapid transit detailed platform that included a Bowman expressed optimism in president, expressed disappointment plan. When it comes to assessing Beyond the change in the mayor’s plan to bolster investment through a office, Winnipeg voters—tradition- his abilities: to work with council to in the results given the election of Bowman’s broader rapid transit plan, bigger tax break for small businesses ally known for returning incumbents get his long list of priorities accom- several right-of-centre candidates, Lukes told the Manitoban that she and a vow to have all six of the city’s to city council—generated vast plished and encourage educated singling out Jeff Browaty (North believes it ambitious, and an “encourproposed bus rapid transit lines built turnover, booting out three incum- young people to stay in Winnipeg Kildonan), Russ Wyatt (Transcona), aging sign.” ahead of schedule, by 2030. bents: Thomas Steen (Elmwood- after they graduate from university and Scott Gillingham (St. James“If he is thinking that far ahead, In a month that will see a critical East Kildonan), Grant Nordman (St. or other post-secondary institutions. Brooklands) for scrutiny. that inspires me,” Lukes said of referendum period on the U-Pass—a Charles), and Harvey Smith (Daniel “There is no single answer to “Generally speaking, I don’t think Bowman’s plan to build the six-bus subsidized bus pass for University of McIntyre). attracting or retaining the best and that they represent the politics of the rapid transit lines by 2030.

W

Photo by Carolyne Kroeker

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News

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

The future of the U-Pass, public transportation on campus Forum provided evidence-based insight on transit questions Dana Hatherly, Staff

I

n light of the upcoming referen- decision-makers with the capacity Nearly all undergraduate students dum in which students will vote to to influence the implementation at the University of Manitoba are determine the outcome of the U-Pass, of the U-Pass. The panellists were UMSU members. If you paid fees to the U-Pass referendum forum was requested to speak to the question UMSU on your university fee stateheld to shed some light on the evi- of the U-Pass, and provide students ment, you are an UMSU member dence and issues on each side of the with their knowledge about it and the and are entitled to vote,” according to debate. The Manitoban, University pros and cons grounded in evidence- the UMSU website. “Regardless of of Manitoba Graduate Students’ based research. Following the expert your opinion on the U-Pass, UMSU Association (UMGSA), and UMSU panellists, representatives from the encourages you to come out and vote collaborated to host the forum about Yes and No sides of the U-Pass debate and make your voice heard!” the future of public transportation presented about their campaign posion campus. tion on the U-Pass. The event then The Manitoban, alongside UMSU proceeded to voting information and “We won’t act vice-president Christian Pierce and a question period. until after the UMGSA president Laura Rempel, Students were invited to write welcomed student participants, fea- down questions on index cards pro- referendum – now tured guests, and the spokespeople vided upon arrival at the forum and it’s in the students’ campaigning for and against the specify who they requested to answer hands” – Al Turnbull, U-Pass. the question; or panellists who had a The guest panel included Jenny response provided them. Pierce and UMSU president Gerbasi, re-elected last week as city Rempel were also on hand to provide councillor for Fort Rouge-East Fort insight from their position on their Garry; Ian Hall, director at U of respective councils.

M office of sustainability; and Orly The referendum question posed by Linovski, assistant professor of city The upcoming vote UMSU reads: “Are you in favour of a mandatory planning at the U of M. On Oct. 28-30 and Oct. 29-31, The UMGSA campaign repre- respectively, UMGSA and UMSU universal bus pass (or U-Pass) that sentatives for the Yes side were Dan members will be eligible to vote in a would: provide unlimited access to Penner, master’s student in the fac- referendum to determine whether or Winnipeg Transit services for stuulty of architecture’s department of not the U-Pass will be implemented dents for the months of September city planning, and chemistry masters’ with other post-secondary institu- to April inclusive; cost $260 per stustudent Temilolu Idowu, and phar- tions across the city. dent to be adjusted on a yearly basis macy doctorate Sarandeep Malhi for Two executive terms ago, the first according to inflation; and have the No side. During his presentation, referendum gauged the will of the exemptions as determined by the City Malhi said that he was present to rep- student body to buy into the U-Pass of Winnipeg and Winnipeg Transit resent the students at the Bannatyne program. Seventy-four per cent of for students living outside the city campus, who may not directly benefit U of M students voted in favour of of Winnipeg and for students with to the same extent as students at the the U-Pass. Due to proposed rate special accessibility needs?”

Fort Garry campus. Malhi said he increases since then, students will The UMSU website previously was “about 80 per cent yes, and 20 vote once again at the end of October read, “UMSU is currently lobper cent no.” The authorized repre- to determine whether or not the bying the City of Winnipeg, the sentative from UMSU for the Yes U-Pass will be implemented.

Government of Manitoba, and the side campaign was Sarah Gerbasi.

“All UMSU members will be University of Manitoba to invest in The panel featured experts and eligible to vote in the referendum. the U-Pass to ensure that the cost to

students is within the amount estab- ing ends,” said UMSU president Al lished by the U-Pass referendum.” At Turnbull. the time of publication, that content “We won’t act until after the refhad been removed from the website. erendum – now it’s in the students’ The Manitoban has yet to receive a hands,” Turnbull continued, “We will response as to why this informa- see if the price point passes. Once tion can no longer be found. The that passes, we will lobby again to site presently reads that, “UMSU ensure that [the city upholds] that Council voted on Sept. 29 to hold price. Once the city council had a referendum, in keeping with the agreed that they would support it, I motion put forward at city council, think the lobbying now can continue on a $260 U-Pass.” until we’re done.”

Councillor Gerbasi and former Mayor Sam Katz motioned to city The experts council to include the U-Pass proThe forum organizers justified posal in the City of Winnipeg’s oper- extending invites to these particuating budget. At a price point of $260 lar expert panellists on the basis plus inflation per student, the motion of providing different approaches to support the U-Pass was passed—at to the question of the U-Pass and least in principle—by city council on evidence-based research from the Feb. 4, 2014. various perspectives.

“The universal transit pass (U-Pass) Councillor Gerbasi represented a is a transit pass that would give eli- voice from Winnipeg city hall in her gible students unlimited access to capacity to convey her support for Winnipeg Transit services for fall and the U-Pass to other councillors, the winter academic terms (September- former mayor, and mayor-elect Brian April) for a set price,” according Bowman; direct the implementation to information on the Canadian of the U-Pass at the political level; Federation of Students-Manitoba and negotiate with Winnipeg Transit. website. Students would receive these In terms of her vision for the city, passes at a rate—comparable to other Gerbasi’s campaign website reads, institutions nationally, and at cheaper “Jenny supports a focus on highrates for Winnipeg students—estab- priority community transportation lished through collective purchas- needs and social amenities, such as ing and government subsidies. The fixing existing roads and sidewalks U-Pass has already been implemented and future expansion of rapid tranin other cities across the country, with sit including active transportation at least 30 universities and colleges (walking and cycling) and developacross the country participating in a ing a sound financial plan to make U-Pass program. this a reality. Jenny is committed to “We have been lobbying to try to championing the establishment of get [the U-Pass] to that $170 price programs such as the U-Pass for stupoint. The price the city gave us was $260, and at that point the lobbyContinued on next page

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

dents as well as investing in public transit to make our city more accessible and sustainable and improve quality of life.”

In a report from Gerbasi on the final budget recommendations to city council for this year she wrote that, “The long-term benefits of this will be developing a culture of lifelong transit use, increased ridership, affordability, decreased congestion, and greenhouse gas reductions.”

Ian Hall provided a local voice to represent the university community from the Office of Sustainability on campus.

According to the U of M website, the strategic vision for action plan launched by the Office of Sustainability in 2012 marked “a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to improve sustainability and operate in a way that respects and supports our environment. In an effort to become a leader in this regard, the University of Manitoba Sustainability Committee has developed a comprehensive action plan that sets out a number of goals and actions with respect to campus operations, planning and community engagement.

This plan was based on “ideas and feedback received from the university community.”

The Office of Sustainability is working towards “a campus that promotes safe, sustainable and accessible transportation options to students, staff, faculty, and the university community,” read Ian Hall’s presentation.

Hall provided information about the various modes of transportation and statistical trends based on students’ use of private vehicles, transit, cycling, and as pedestrians. The 2014 student population totalled 29,648 students, as reported

by Hall. Evidence from the Office of Sustainability shows that 33.6 per cent use transit, 31.5 per cent drive only, 20.2 per cent bike, 10.5 per cent carpool, and 4.2 per cent walk.

According to Hall, about 65 per cent travelled less than 10 kilometres. The average distance travelled by students in Winnipeg and

across Manitoba was just over six tion showed that there has been a kilometres. steady increase in the proportion Hall presented that the num- of students who purchase monthly ber of driving commuters would passes. Since slightly more than 10 be reduced therefore reducing the per cent of students bought passes struggle for parking. With a total of in 2000-2001, the numbers for 20136,500 parking spots on Fort Garry 2014 show that over 25 per cent of campus, there are 3,000 permits students bought monthly passes. on 2,340 spots at a rate of $67 per Orly Linovski spoke from a month. Only 26 per cent of parking city planning perspective. Laura stalls are for casual parking with Rempel justified the organizers’ 1690 spots at rates varying from decision for hosting Linovski, tell$5-11 per day. There is no student ing the Manitoban that a city planparking for the Bannatyne campus. ner would provide an unbiased and critical evaluation of the implications of the U-Pass at the city level.

“The long-term Linovski stated that “unlimited transit access programs are widebenefits of this spread across Canada and North will be developing America.” According to Linovski, the benefits of the U-Pass are to a culture of reduce parking demand, increase public transit ridership, and lifelong transit use, increase transportation equity. increased ridership, In terms of parking, Linovski pointed out that fees do not typiaffordability, cally factor in the costs of building decreased and maintaining parking.

Linovski also presented evicongestion, and dence from other cities which demgreenhouse onstrated that U-Pass programs are usually associated with increased gas reduction” – ridership. She explained that the implications for this are reduced Jenny Gerbasi, fares, improved transit service, city councillor “more familiarity with [the] transit system,” and “more groups travelling together.”

The transit trends presented by Linovski presented on the Hall showed that more students potential equity benefits achieved are using transit now than in earlier “through access, affordability, and years. In terms of transit arrivals on possible service improvements.” campus, an average of about 9,700 The benefits are likely to impact students rely on transit to arrive to non-drivers, those who “tend to be campus daily. Hall reported that lower income,” are “transportation those numbers are typically “higher disadvantaged,” and will generally in winter” and “lower in summer.” “improve basic mobility,” Linovski Hall also presented about the reported. capacity of transit in regards to The limitations of the U-Pass citywide on-time performance were addressed by Linovski, who and accessibility. On average, he said that “transit quality impacts reported that 75 per cent of buses ridership—though not as much as ran on time, 15 per cent ran late, and you would expect—[and] service 10 per cent were early. Winnipeg should be increased to accommoTransit estimated that 90 per cent date higher ridership.” of Winnipeg households are within 400 metres of transit routes.

Photos by Beibei Lu The graph used in his presenta-

News

5

“Vote – anywhere” U of M’s advanced polling station saw 290 people cast ballots for the municipal election Craig Adolphe, staff

T

he University of Manitoba vote before the day of the election, campus’s advanced polling doubling the number of advanced station stayed open over a span of voters compared to the 2006 three days—Sept. 30 to Oct. 2— municipal election and accountduring which 290 people cast bal- ing for approximately 15 per cent lots for Winnipeg’s 2014 municipal of the total ballots cast in the 2010 election. election.

The station was located in room This time around the voter turn112 on the main floor of University out increased slightly while the Centre – off the tunnel to the number of advanced ballots cast Engineering Building. Polls were stayed the same, sitting just above open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 30,000. on Tuesday, Sept. 30 and Thursday, At advanced polling stations – Oct. 2 and from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 branded “vote – anywhere” locap.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 1. tions by the city – people were A polling station set up at the able to cast ballots regardless of U of M over a span of two days for which ward and school division the 2010 municipal election saw a they would be casting ballots for. similar turnout, with 293 people Normally voters are required to go having voted. Marc Lemoine, sen- to a specific polling station where ior election official for the City of ballots are cast for the local canWinnipeg’s city clerk’s department, didates. This model was meant provided the voter turnout figures to encourage increased voter to the Manitoban. participation.

Advanced polling stations However, no polling stations were identified as a success story were set up at the U of M on the in the 2010 municipal election day of the election. when 30,000 people showed up to

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News

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

UMSU Council fills vacant representative seats Aboriginal, international, and students living with disabilities representatives appointed Craig Adolphe, staff

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n Oct. 14 UMSU Council filled Fletcher Argue, make sure all ramps three empty community repreand thresholds are up to standards, sentative council seats by appointing and make a seminar mandatory for new students to fill the aboriginal, professors,” said Fenwick. international, and students liv“I would also like to be a voice for ing with disabilities representative the students living with disabilities positions. but I feel like people aren’t really The appointments were made in [ready] to talk about problems they accordance with bylaw 3350 from face, so I’ve found problems such as UMSU’s bylaw manual. The bylaw the elevator in [Fletcher Argue] and I am pursuing that.” lays out the circumstances in which UMSU Council can vote to appoint Last year Matthew Riesmeyer a new councillor and the procedures won his position in an election specified in point 3 of bylaw 3350, enous students and to build relation- years but that recently it hasn’t been against Rocco Scarcella, but has since for doing so.

“1. If a position remains vacant which states that it should last one ships between UMSU leaders and meeting regularly. resigned.

“The international student caucus Scarcella decided not to seek the after the Annual General Election, week, but no candidates have voiced indigenous leaders on campus. nominations to fill the position by any concerns about the extended Landon emphasized the impor- is a caucus which [is supposed to meet open council rep position but spoke appointment of council shall reopen nomination period. tance of dialogue and partnerships once every] 15 days. They decide on to council prior to the vote about the on October 1.

Posters for the open council posi- in tackling issues important to the what should be done or what are the high calibre of the candidates who “2. If a position becomes vacant tions notably used the Refresh slate’s indigenous community. issues that concern international stu- were running and the significance of through any other means after logo in place of UMSU’s logo.

“We face a social environment dents. It plays an important role in having so many candidates running or during September and before Candidates for the three repre- that often has misinformation that generating awareness about issues on for the position.

March, nominations to fill the posi- sentative positions were invited to leads to negative [views] of us. The visas, issues on work-permit regula“Traditionally either the position tion by appointment of council shall attend the Oct. 14 council meeting barriers that block communication tions, [and] on health issues – or, for would remain vacant or one person be reopened on the first of the next where they were given an opportunity and understanding must be broken that matter, providing international would run for it. To have four canmonth. to present themselves to the council. to create a strong community. That students with basic services: if they’re didates is actually a pretty big deal,” “4.b. If, by the end of the nomina- After all the candidates had spoken is [a] responsibility all students must feeling homesick or they’re feeling Scarcella told the council. “So I don’t tion period [ . . . ] one or more people the council went in-camera and all take on.” depressed [and] they have nowhere envy your job in selecting one.” have been nominated, council shall non-councillors, including candito go.”

Fenwick echoed that sentiment decide by voting after a presentation dates, media, and students-at-large, International students’ Promoting intercultural events when he spoke to the Manitoban. was another priority for the new by each of the nominated candidates. were asked to leave the room so they representative “I think it is awesome that so Council shall also request the per- could deliberate and proceed to vote. many people ran for the position.

Astitwa Thapa was the only appli- international students’ rep. spective and input of community “You have one event right now, that, Accessibility is a huge issue that I cant for the position of international members associated with the posi- Aboriginal students’ students’ representative. Thapa if it’s an Indian event, there are only don’t think gets enough attention. So tion. The candidate with a plurality representative was one of two candidates who Indians going. If it’s a Pakistani event having so many people out for the of votes shall be considered appointed During last year’s election, after had originally registered to run for there are only Pakistanis going. My position was amazing to see. to the position.” no candidates had applied for the international students’ rep in March’s goal would be to increase the inter“Everyone who ran would’ve made Two of the representative posi- aboriginal students’ and women’s rep- election, along with Munashe Gudu, mingling. So if it’s an Indian event we a great representative. They were all tions—aboriginal and international resentative positions, UMSU’s CRO but both candidates dropped out of could likely [invite] a lot of Chinese bright, driven, and willing to make students’ representatives—went Jacqueline Keena extended the nom- the race before the election, leaving students to come in,” said Thapa. a difference. Everything that was unfilled during the last UMSU ination period by a week for those the position vacant. brought up was awesome.” election period. The students living positions in the hopes of attracting According to Thapa the lack of Students living with with disabilities representative posi- candidates. In that week Reanna opposition candidates should not be disabilities representative VP advocacy’s reaction tion was left vacant after Matthew Blair and Ninia Ogbuji entered the taken as a sign of disinterest from Five candidates competed for UMSU vice-president advocacy Riesmeyer, who won the seat in race for women’s representative, with international students. the position of students living with Rebecca Kunzman said she was March, resigned.

Blair winning the seat. However, no “Quite a few people asked me if I disabilities representative. The five extremely happy with the number Posters were put up and adver- candidates stepped forward to run for was running or not and that’s when candidates were Alan Bridgeman, of candidates who stepped forward tisements placed in the Manitoban aboriginal students’ representative I made it clear that I am running [ . . Andrew Fenwick, Boris Degas, Daniel to fill the vacant council seats. to publicize the aboriginal and and the position remained unfilled. . ] people didn’t put in their [names].” Tingskou, and Stephanie Croy.

“I’m very pleased to have all three international students’ representaThis October three candidates selfFour of the candidates were in positions filled. I think it’ll help Thapa is the president of the tive positions and the one-week nominated for the position of aborigi- Nepali Students’ Association and attendance on Oct. 14—with Degas to reflect a better representation of window that existed—from Oct. 1 nal students’ representative. They is serving as student senator for the unable to attend, but having sent diversity on our council and I’m very to Oct. 7—for candidates to self- included Will Landon, Destinee Clayton H. Riddell faculty of envi- a letter—and spoke to the council excited [about] moving forward with nominate through letters of intent Comegan, and Lionel Daniels. about what they would bring to a full council,” said Kunzman. ronment, earth, and resources. sent to UMSU Council’s secretary.

Comegan and Daniels both Kunzman also expressed hope He was also a leading organizer of the position. After council’s vote, When the position of students living offered written submissions for the student protests against the fac- Fenwick was appointed to the rep- that the candidates who had not won with disabilities representative was the nomination process. Landon ulty of engineering’s admissions pol- resentative position. seats would continue to stay involved added to advertisements that were appeared at the council meeting in icy that took place over the summer.

Fenwick has served as the acces- with UMSU initiatives such as the released in the Manitoban’s Oct. 8 person and spoke about what he Thapa said one of his goals for sibility representative for the Arts student union’s new campaigns series. issue, the nomination period for the thought he would bring to the posi- his term is to bring back the inter- Student Body Council since May “We’d love to have those individuother two representative positions tion of aboriginal students’ represen- national student caucus – a group and also previously served as the als who did come out today and show were extended to Oct. 14. tative, and ended up winning the seat. where international students can youth ambassador for the Children’s that initiative, and took the time to The nomination period for aborigLandon told the Manitoban discuss pertinent issues. Thapa told Rehabilitation Foundation. prepare a speech and run for the posiinal and international students’ rep- that he hoped to improve dialogue the Manitoban that the caucus has “I hope to accomplish a lot but my tion, still involved regardless of the resentative lasted a week longer than between indigenous and non-indig- existed as a part of UMSU for several main goals are to fix the elevator in outcome of the election.”

Photos by Carolyne Kroeker

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

News

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David Suzuki’s environmental movement moves Winnipeg Reflections on treaty rights, human rights to a healthy environment Philma Scheepers, staff

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enowned Canadian scien- mise always seems to involve either tist and environmental activ- human rights or environmental rights.

“We need to figure out a way to ist David Suzuki’s Blue Dot Tour made its way to Winnipeg—and to move forward economically while the University of Manitoba campus— still protecting our fundamental on Friday, Oct. 24. rights,” Fontes said.

The first part of the Winnipeg “It’s not about hindering the econstop included an event held at the omy,” said Suzuki during his speech.

U of M’s Great Hall in University “Environmental rights often improve College, which featured indigenous economic performance.” ceremonies as well as panel dialogues Hill used an example from his on indigenous environmental stew- community in Gods Lake Narrows, ardship and Aboriginal and treaty Manitoba to explain the conflict rights in Manitoba. between economic policy and enviSuzuki was honoured by the ronmental stewardship. “In Gods indigenous community for his “lead- Lake there is gold running through ership in protecting the sacred land our area, coming in from Ontario. and for being a strong voice and advo- We are a poor community so we need cate for aboriginal and treaty rights.” to consider the jobs but we also don’t “It was very clear that his entire want to destroy the land.”

Suzuki brought up another examcampaign and the people who are on that campaign tour with him are very ple concerning the Haida people who dedicated to the indigenous [com- have traditionally occupied territories ponent] of environmental steward- in British Columbia and continue to ship,” said Amanda Fontes, the U of face extreme poverty and unemployM Science Students’ Association’s ment. Suzuki explained that even in indigenous representative. the face of all these difficulties, when Fontes told the Manitoban that approached with the prospects of logshe was very impressed with Suzuki’s ging on their land, although it would appreciation for and indigenous per- bring jobs and money to their comspective on the environment. munity, the Haida resisted.

The discussion panel at the after“I applaud the indigenous comnoon event on campus included munities for all the work that U of M president and vice-chan- they have done in protecting the cellor David Barnard; elder Dave environment because they truly Courchene Jr.; assistant professor of have an appreciation that other law Aimée Craft; and human rights Canadians don’t necessarily and environmental protection author have,” Fontes told the Manitoban. and expert David R. Boyd. The event moderator was widely-known indig- A healthy environment enous Canadian politician and lawyer is a right Ovide Mercredi.

The ultimate goal of Suzuki’s Blue The conclusion of the discussion Dot Tour is to amend the Canadian panel was led by Stewart Hill, second- Charter of Rights and Freedoms to year PhD student of water studies include the right to live in a healthy at the U of M’s Natural Resources environment. According to Suzuki, Institute, with a summary of the con- Canada is falling behind the rest of versations. Hill is part of CREATE the developed world as, unlike most H2O, a science-engineering research other wealthy industrialized nations, training program that combines water it does not yet include an environmanagement training with indigenous mental policy in its charter. theory and law.

“To me, the concept of sustainabil“Part of our responsibility as an ity is the long-term commitment of indigenous people is to protect the society to ensure that no generation environment,” Hill explained. He suffers a decrease in opportunity or added, “The creator formed this earth fulfillment of basic needs. There can and we have to live in it and take care be no need greater for any of us than a healthy environment,” Suzuki said. of it.”

“Recognition in the charter is the Economic compromise final step in protecting the right to During the event held at the clean air, fresh water, and healthy food Burton Cummings Theatre on Friday for all Canadians. This ensures that we night, Suzuki explained that the all benefit from a healthy environment, four elements—earth, air, fire, and world-class standards, and a say in the water—are referred to by indigenous decisions that affect out health,” reads people around the world as sacred and the Blue Dot Tour website. beyond economic valuation.

Environmental hazards and “The conflict between economic toxic pollution disproportionately development and environmental affect people on the lower end of the stewardship is very obvious, and I socioeconomic scale, said Suzuki. He think anybody can see that,” Fontes went on to explain that this is why a told the Manitoban. Fontes stated that campaign for environmental rights any time that a country or a group is also a campaign for human rights of people wanted to move forward and social justice. economically, there had to be compromise somewhere, and the compro-

Photo by Carolyne Kroeker

Proactive activism

“The term ‘activist’ is a little intimidating because it has a very strong connotation, meaning you have to step up and be a leader when that’s not for everybody,” Fontes told the Manitoban.

“I’m not the kind of person who is going to ride my bike to school at minus 40 degrees, but I am very diligent when it comes to recycling and water consumption.

“It’s really quite simple,” Fontes explained. “Any activity that you do that helps the cause makes you an activist; it doesn’t need to be drastic.”

“I’ve never been much of a leader.

I’ve always been the guy who stays in the background,” said Hill. He went on to state that, “I believe that it’s encoded in us how to be human; we just need to embrace that. There’s an inherent understanding in each of us on how to respect our environment.”

It is time for the indigenous community in particular to become active and to start standing up for their rights when it comes to the environment, Hill told the Manitoban.

“We are a very deserving people and we need to start working toward equality and fighting for our rights.

Everyone deserves a good life no matter who they are, and part of that is protecting the environment we live in.”

The environment is a difficult thing to take action on and get fully united behind because of its scale, said Fontes. “In changing the constitution, we are taking that one big step that needs to be taken because it makes the entire country accountable for the environment.”

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

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Voting on the U-Pass A look at some of the issues regarding the U-Pass referendum Tom Ingram, staff

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his week, UMSU members will vote on the issue of a proposed mandatory universal bus pass for students. UMGSA is also holding a similar referendum on whether to pursue the U-Pass. By the time this article hits newsstands, the University of Winnipeg Students’ Association will be finishing their referendum.

With the date of the UMSU vote fast approaching, I’d like to look at the arguments for and against the pass.

The benefits of the pass are wellknown. For students who take public transit to school (around 50 per cent of University of Manitoba students and 70 per cent of University of Winnipeg students, according to a city spokesperson), it would represent a significant savings – the proposed cost is $260, which works out to $32.50 per month from September to April.

The cost of a monthly post-secondary student pass is currently $67.75.

It is likely that many students who do not take public transit would begin to do so. This would reduce vehicle traffic on the roads and possibly take some of the burden off of the U of M’s parking lots. It would also encourage students to take public transit to places other than the university.

But it’s not all sunshine and roses.

Let’s take a look at some of the arguments that have been presented against the U-Pass.

Legitimacy

there were some equivalent benefit Transit upgrades. for students who drive. Any interest One hopes that these improvethat UMSU or Winnipeg as a whole ments will indeed be sufficient, but would have in encouraging students the precedent is not good. The Rapid to take transit is irrelevant.

Transit corridor, touted as a major The problem with this argument is improvement in the city’s transit that an improvement to public tran- system, turned out to reduce comsit represents a benefit to the com- mute times by a staggering “not very munity over and above the benefit much,” while almost cutting off one to each individual transit user – and section of Pembina Highway from in this respect the U-Pass is unlike a bus service and ignoring more than hypothetical subsidy for student car half the city.

It would be all too characteristic insurance or parking. of our city if, instead of increased service to meet increased demand, we saw more people being left behind Paying for things at stops by clown-car buses running you're not going 15 minutes late. We have to decide this week whether to pay into the to use so that the program, and there is no way to tell group as a whole can at this point whether Winnipeg Transit’s proposed improvements benefit is part of the will be adequate. An objection to price of belonging the U-Pass on grounds of practicality seems more reasonable. to any community I encourage all eligible students to vote in the referendum according to their conscience. But I ask that we When you attend a university all keep these considerations in mind you are, like it or not, buying into when we go to the polls. the campus community and to some extent the city as a whole. To say that The UMSU U-Pass referendum UMSU or Winnipeg as a whole have is being held from Oct. 29-31 at an interest in encouraging transit use various locations on campus. The is to say that each UMSU member UMGSA referendum is being held and Winnipegger has that same from Oct. 28-30 with online voting. interest.

Arguments like Lyle’s are essentially attempts to dodge certain responsibilities of community membership by construing the individual student’s relationship to the student body through UMSU as an exclusively financial one. Such an evasion of responsibility will not wash.

Paying for things you’re not going to use so that the group as a whole can benefit is part of the price of belonging to any community.

One of the most prevalent arguments against the U-Pass since it was first resurrected in 2011 is that it is unfair. As a mandatory pass with limited opt-out options, it would require students who drive to school to pay for a service they don’t use – effectively, some have argued, forcing them to subsidize the transportation choice of other students.

Why should you pay for a service you don’t use? An article by Foster Practicality Lyle published in the Manitoban two A more plausible argument against years ago makes an argument along a U-Pass is presented in the second these lines. half of Lyle’s article. Any frequent “If UMSU gets their way students transit user knows that getting from will be unfairly forced to pay into any part of the city to any other in the transit system,” Lyle wrote. “I’ve under an hour is difficult – sometimes never seen a movement of this type impossible. At peak hours passengers to subsidize car insurance costs, or are often turned away by buses that parking pass prices for those students are already dangerously overfilled. At who choose to drive, and I’m sure I non-peak hours, buses come infrenever will.” quently and are so consistently late Lyle argues that he should not you could set your watch by them. have to be subjected to UMSU’s Late at night and early in the morning influence in deciding how to come they don’t come at all. to school. The decision should be a At the current level of service, private one, taking into account only Winnipeg Transit cannot handle the one’s own resources and preferences. drastically increased passenger load “Students should be able to pay their that would be the inevitable result of hard-earned dollars into whichever a U-Pass. A Winnipeg Transit report system works better for them,” so in 2013 said that it would be necessary the choices of others are irrelevant to operate more buses and hire more to my choice. staff to meet an estimated 20 per cent This kind of a la carte model of increase in ridership. student services, which is the logiThe reason we are having the cal conclusion of this argument, only present referendum is to determine works if every student has his or her whether students accept the increase own relationship with UMSU lim- in the proposed cost of the pass. This ited by very strict rules. A U-Pass increase is necessary to close the would violate these rules unless funding gap caused by the Winnipeg

photo by Carolyne Kroeker

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

Mayor-elect Brian Bowman used to write for the Manitoban. His first article for the Manitoban, written in Aug. 1993, was a profile of then incoming swimming coach Vlastimil Cerny, who, 20 years later, is the current head coach of the team. He first made the front page with an article coauthored with Chris Zuk, who now manages sport information and media relations for the Bisons.

Pages from the past

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

True North deserves a shout out, but not during the anthem Alteration of the anthem signals disrespect for Canada Fraser Nelund, staff

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anada’s national anthem can be heard at every game the Winnipeg Jets play. At home, and sometimes away, crowds full of enthusiastic fans shout “True North” much louder than they sing the rest of the words. This is followed by cheering. The “shout out” is intended to acknowledge the contribution of True North Sports and Entertainment Ltd. (TNSE) to Winnipeg, the return of a professional hockey franchise. The “shout out” devalues the anthem.

True North Sports and Entertainment Ltd. did not orchestrate this custom, nor have they actively encouraged its progression.

The tradition came to life soon after the Atlanta Thrashers franchise was bought by TNSE and the NHL returned to Winnipeg. The current phenomenon purportedly began with one voice at the Jets’ first season opener, in 2011.

In Canada the NHL voluntarily has team anthems performed before games begin. The Government of Canada’s website says “there is no specific rule as to when it is appropriate to sing the national anthem at an event.”

corporation while performing a ceremony meant to be a declaration of patriotism obfuscates the pride we take in being a part of this nation.

Freedom is as much at the core of being Canadian as respect is. I am not attacking people’s right to free speech. It is proper that the choice of whether or not to interrupt the anthem is, as the Government of Canada holds, “left to the good citizenship of individuals.”

True North Sports and

Entertainment Ltd. is a corporation; to purchase their products, be they tickets or Jets paraphernalia, is to be appropriately supportive of the organization. To scream support during Jets games or at nearly any other time is just fine. The benefits TNSE has brought to Winnipeggers quite rightly inspires more than just brand loyalty.

The True North Foundation runs numerous charitable events where Winnipeggers can further

reward and encourage the behaviour of the organization. These foster community.

Participation in hockey culture and community building events comes at no cost to Canadian values.

The custom of interrupting the anthem in favour of cheering for a corporate entity undermines Canadian values.

I am not saying that if you have shouted “True North” you have less pride in Canada. The intention

behind the gesture’s rise to prominence, recognizing admirable action, is as laudable as TNSE itself. Musical memes are, by definition, catchy.

Contemplation is seldom a sports fan’s duty.

I think it is a Jets fan's duty here, though.

Taking into account the nature of the symbolism involved, it is clear that there are more appropriate ways to say “Thank you.”

Emphasizing the role of a corporation while performing a ceremony meant to be a declaration of patriotism obfuscates the pride we take in being a part of this nation

The choice evidences a sense of patriotism.

As far as Manitoban institutions go, TNSE is amongst those most deserving of respect. The return of professional hockey to Winnipeg has given Winnipeggers the opportunity to gather and share experiences. True North Sports and Entertainment Ltd. has a charitable arm—True North Foundation—with deep community ties, demonstrating a commendable commitment to good causes around the city. The corporation has done, is doing, and will continue to do great things for Winnipeg. Its reputation for upstanding corporate citizenship is well-deserved.

Singing the national anthem signals a sense of community and a feeling of kinship with all citizens of our nation. The insertion of an acknowledgement of even the most worthy corporation acts counter to the purpose of the anthem’s performance. Emphasizing the role of a

graphic by Bram Keast

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

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illustration by Scott Ford

illustration by Evan Tremblay

photo by Carolyne Kroeker

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

Diversions

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Science & technology 14 Science & Technology Editor: Chantelle Dubois Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

The Blue Dot Tour David Suzuki’s last stand Jeremiah Yarmie, staff

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avid Suzuki is a geneticist, enviThe main concern of The Blue Dot “Home is where the heart is, home is Manitoba. but one that is a part of ourselves. ronmentalist, and broadcaster Tour is that Canada falls short when where we learn to love,” and echoing The penultimate presentation of “Is soil a complex community of from British Columbia. He is also, it comes to environmental action. the word “garbage” in a rendition of the night was a performance by the organisms, or simply dirt? Is another arguably, Canada’s ambassador for The driving force of the tour is that a song popularized by the late Pete Royal Winnipeg Ballet, a beautiful species our biological kin, or a the environment. change is possible through Canadians’ Seeger. piece which captured the environ- resource?” Suzuki asked the audience.

Suzuki made two Winnipeg collective actions.

Musical duo Cris Derksen and mental concerns of the tour and the “The way we see the world determines appearances on the Blue Dot Tour There are three main goals of this Tanya Tagaq improvised during tone of the night through dance. the way we treat it.”

The emphasis throughout was on on Oct. 24. He discussed indigenous movement: the formation of stron- their performance. Derksen’s cello Finally, Suzuki took to the stage. issues at the University of Manitoba ger environmental laws, the better and Tagaq’s throat singing formed a “Science shapes our stories,” he said, enacting reform. in the afternoon, and in the evening enforcement of existing laws, and a haunting piece from highs and lows. explaining both the wonderful and “If not us, then who?” asked Suzuki, Ovide Mercredi, a First Nations concerning things that he believes shortly before concluding the night. went to the Burton Cummings decisive adherence to these laws in Theatre for his main show. the future. leader and University of Manitoba shape our existence as humans.

For some people Suzuki is a beaThe ultimate goal of the tour is see- alumnus, spoke of the importance “The environment is embedded The Blue Dot Tour encourcon of hope, his voice a calm call ing an amendment to the Canadian of accessible water and a healthy inside, within us,” said Suzuki as he ages Canadians to make a for action. In his final national tour Charter of Rights and Freedoms environment by telling a story of implored the audience to view the change to the way our nation his hometown of Grand Rapids, environment not as an external entity, regards the environment.

Suzuki has set the goal of protect- addressing these concerns. ing Canada’s future through our The Burton Cummings Theatre environment. event featured special guests such Gaining its name from an image as Sierra Noble, who gave a roots of the Earth taken by the space probe music take on this grassroots moveVoyager 1, and as a nod to Carl Sagan, ment with her signature fiddle and the Blue Dot Tour captures the beaming smile. sobering fact that our only home is Winnipeg children’s musician this chunk of rock and water called Fred Penner started off his performEarth. ance by sharing a core philosophy in The Blue Dot Tour centres on the his life. notion that Canadians have a right to “Never underestimate your abillive in a healthy environment. Clean ity to influence the life of a child,” water, safe food, and clear air should Penner told the audience. be available to every single resident Penner then had the audience of our country. singing along to lyrics, such as,

photos by Carolyne Kroeker

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

Bacterial selection pressures and pressure for antibacterial selection Researcher profile: Ayush Kumar

Science & Technology 15

Let’s Talk Science’s Spooky Science Family Night A night of frighteningly fun hands-on science activities Chantelle Dubois, staff

Jeremiah Yarmie, staff

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yush Kumar is an associate usage of antibacterial products. professor in the department Recent research from the of microbiology. His research Kumar lab has shown that interests include infectious diseases triclosan treatment can result in A. and antimicrobial resistance. An baumannii developing resistance alumnus of the University of to many antibiotics in addition Manitoba, Kumar completed his to triclosan itself. This resistance PhD in microbiology in 2004 and develops through an increased returned to the department in 2013. expression of a pump on its surface In those years of absence, which shoots antibiotics out of the Kumar has noticed a shift in the cell. way research is being carried out So why have we seen an increase in the department. “Microbiology in the use of antibacterial products is still about microorganisms, but like triclosan? Kumar believes it we are digging much deeper,” said is partially due to the lack of Kumar. Part of this shift is due microbiological education. to the accessibility of modern “Whenever you hear about molecular biology techniques. bacteria in the news it is generally “There are few stand-alone bad. There is this sense of paranoia microbiology departments in in society. The whole idea of ‘I don’t the country,” Kumar explained, want any bacteria on my telephone, as he discussed his return to the or keyboard, or my skin,’ is driving University of Manitoba. this.”

“There is so much complimentary When a person or company research. The fact that you can make claims about the bacteria interact with other graduate present on an object or surface, students and other faculty members the typical focus is the amount of on topics that you are interested in bacteria present. Which bacteria is really amazing. are present is another story, and “The interest of students is a most of them are harmless. good indicator of the health of “The way you see the growth of the department,” Kumar told this antimicrobial product industry the Manitoban. Between major tells you that the paranoia is not degrees, honours degrees, co-op going away. placements, and research projects, “The problem is that we haven’t microbiology students have a been able to, at the societal level, breadth of opportunities. distinguish between good and The Kumar lab has taken an bad bacteria. We know that one interest in studying Acinetobacter per cent of bacteria, or even less of baumannii, a pathogen that is what we can culture in labs, cause particularly notorious for causing disease. Seeing bacteria on your infections in individuals with domestic products is not a cause compromised immune systems. for alarm.

A. baumannii infections are of “We certainly need antibiotics, concern because this pathogen is there is no doubt about that. If resistant to almost every common I went in for surgery tomorrow class of antibiotics, and typically I’d need antibiotics. Otherwise, acquired in hospitals or health care chances are I’d end up dying,” said settings, meaning it is nosocomial. Kumar.

Other common nosocomial “Evidence shows that there is no infections include methicillin- advantage of using triclosan in our resistant Staphylococcus aureus and homes. What it actually does is kill Clostridium difficile. all of the good bacteria, and the bad “This is the exact reason why ones survive.” the [Centers for Disease Control “The other key component is and Prevention] has classified this better infection control practices. organism as a serious threat to Preventing the spread of pathogens human health,” said Kumar. is something we need to get better “I was really fascinated by the fact at. Another thing that we absolutely that it just accumulates antibiotic need is faster diagnostics.” resistance mechanisms from the environment. It isn’t shy.”

If you are interested in learnTriclosan is an antibiotic ing more from Kumar or about compound that is found in many infectious diseases in general, he cleaning products, including teaches a microbiology course titled toothpaste and soap. The use of “Mechanisms of Microbial Disease.” triclosan and similar compounds is of interest due to the increasing

Let's Talk Science co-ordinators Elise Remillard, Rebecca Van Ginkel, Rachel Rubin, Richard Jung, Kirsten Chan, and Jasmine Frost are the masterminds behind events like the Spooky Science Family Night.

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n Friday night, Oct. 24, the atrium of the Engineering complex was alive with excitement.

Dressed in costumes, volunteers engaged children from grades four to nine in exciting, hands-on science activities with a Halloween twist. The event attracted approximately 200 Winnipeg children and parents to learn how to extract DNA from pumpkin innards, make “radioactive” slime using household products, sew a “scary” microbe, and learn about microbial anatomy using pipe cleaners and felt.

Who were these mad scientists dazzling participants with fun, educational activities? Let’s Talk Science is a national non-profit science outreach organization passionate about science literacy. Let’s Talk Science volunteers are University of Manitoba students from the faculties of science, engineering, business, art, and education.

This was the third annual Spooky Science Family Night.

“We started Spooky Science [Family] Night in 2012 and had 100 children and parents attend. Last year, in 2013, the number grew to 200. We are hoping for a similar turnout this year,” said Richard Jung, a site co-ordinator for Let’s Talk Science’s U of M branch One of their most popular activities, Pumpkin DNA, involves children crushing pumpkin slime in a plastic sandwich baggy. This is a modification of their Strawberry DNA activity.

“You break up the cells mechanically like this,” explained the volunteer. The children were then instructed to add a mixture of dish detergent and water to break

through the fatty cell layer. After filtering the mixture into a small plastic cup, the volunteer added isopropyl alcohol while the child was instructed to stir the solution with a stick. Semi-transparent white goo began to collect.

“That’s DNA!” a volunteer explained as a child observed closely.

Who were these mad scientists dazzling participants with fun, educational activities?

is no lack in diversity, with rural outreach, mall events, classroom activities, a high school summer camp, and, currently in the planning stages, the CancerTalk High School Symposium.

“We are partnering with the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation to plan the CancerTalk High School Symposium,” said Jung. “It will be a fun day where students will have the opportunity to listen to leading researchers and oncologists debate, participate in ethical discussions, and visit a research facility.”

Jung hopes that showcasing the leading research in the province will show these students how much science has progressed in the battle against cancer. He hopes this experience may help students understand cancer and influence some of them to someday pursue a career in oncology to fight the disease themselves.

“Cancer is a disease that impacts every generation,” Jung remarked.

From grade four children discovering how to extract DNA from pumpkin slime under the instruction of a volunteer wearing face paint, to high school students listening to leading researchers debate and discuss their research, Let’s Talk Science’s breadth and impact is impressive.

In addition to the myriad science activities made available in the atrium, a Chemistry Magic Show took place at regular intervals throughout the evening – complete with liquid nitrogen, dry ice, and fire. The children shrieked with joy at the science happening before their eyes.

When the University of Manitoba branch of Let’s Talk Science was founded in 1999, they had as few as 10 members at the beginning. Fifteen years later, a sixperson co-ordinating team and 200 volunteers work together to deliver To learn more about Let’s Talk presentations, workshops, and Science, their volunteer opporactivities to over 13,000 students tunities, or upcoming events, across Manitoba. contact the co-ordinating team Spooky Science Family Night at lts.uofm@gmail.com is just one of many of their exciting events Let’s Talk Science has planned for next year. There photo provided by Let's Talk Science

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Science & Technology

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

IEEEXtreme Programming Challenge 8.0 University of Manitoba students go head-to-head in international programming challenge Chantelle Dubois, staff

placed within the top 29 per cent in the worldwide pool of around 2,300 teams.

Even more impressive is that this year the challenges incorporated the “elegance” of the solutions and did not accept just any workable solution for full points.

“Elegance is a difficult thing to measure in programming,” said Kinsner. However, a combination of program length and computation time were used to determine the points distributed for a solution. The faster a program produced results and the fewer lines of code used to write it, the higher the point distribution for that challenge.

On top of entering the competition with no prior training for the challenges and facing a much stricter point distribution system, many of the participants were also involved with the GradCon and had midterm exams. Kinsner was pleased that these students participated and did well.

Kinsner said the outcome indicates that U of M students are performing well in the programming arena: “This is a measurable result that our students are very good.”

Erik Johnson, a third-year computer engineering student and an IEEE student member, was a participant in this year’s IEEEXtreme challenge. Out of the 23 problem sets, his team was able to successfully solve two.

“The time-outs were really low,” Johnson said. While solving one of

the problems, he found that some lines of code had an extra space at the end, which slowed down his algorithm, the part of the program that performs the desired calculations. Since part of the point distribution was based on computation time, something minor, such as an extra character in the program, affected the results.

Johnson said his favourite challenge was the Nekops-Nu Sequences problem. “I solved that problem with 19 lines of Python,” he said.

In other challenges, he used the programming languages C# and Java.

The challenge lists many programs which the challenges may be solved with, giving participants the freedom to choose based on their own preference or skill level.

Canada had 79 participating teams – a high participant-to-population ratio compared to the U.S., which had 240 teams participate.

Team turnout for IEEEXtreme increased from 1,830 in 2013 to approximately 2,300 in 2014. “This is a very good thing,” said Kinsner.

“I hope in the future our participants [at the University of Manitoba] can excel even further.”

because it is one of only three full I completed my undergraduseason turtle monitoring programs ate studies at Vancouver Island in Australia, and being the home to University, a program which included more than 500 nests per season, is field schools and excursions. I also the largest rookery in Western attended a five-week tropical ecology Australia. field school in Belize which changed The Gnaraloo Feral Animal my life forever and provided me with Program (GFAP) has played a role in the hands-on skills I needed to break reducing the predation of turtle nests into the “turtle world.” Currently, my by feral animals, and has successfully master’s thesis in Aquatic Toxicology prevented predation completely for is on hold so I can “chase turtles” in the last four years. The program pro- Australia. tected 47,000 loggerhead turtle eggs Since 2008, the GTCP has last season, with a running total of recruited scientific interns nation188,000 loggerhead eggs since the ally and internationally every season. program commenced in 2010.

My specific role is data quality control My interest in sea turtles was and assurance. I will be responsible sparked at a young age; I once saw a for the meticulous management of all documentary where divers in Hawaii data collected, further development of were cutting sea turtles loose from the turtle tracking training module, fishing nets and I immediately and liaising with other international decided that I needed to save sea turtle organizations. turtles too. However, growing up in I will live as part of a small team a land-locked area I found that my at Gnaraloo station, and be involved career goal wasn’t taken very seriously. in all aspects of turtle monitoring, My first step was to get to the coast. including species identification, nest-

ing activity determination, monitoring predation of nests, identification of feral animal tracks, conducting on-site and off-site presentations, and writing a scientific report of the findings.

I will also be involved in community engagement activities. These activities of the GTCP connect the program with the younger generation and educates them about marine conservation. Through this program, 4,589 individuals were reached last season, and more through media outlets such as radio, publications and online.

I am thrilled for the opportunity to participate in such a valuable program in this pristine and untouched part of the world. Gnaraloo welcomes all visitors and strongly encourages community participation in the GTCP.

photo by Carolyne Kroeker

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n Oct. 17 the University of Manitoba hosted IEEEXtreme 8.0, a programming challenge held simultaneously around the world over a 24-hour span. The event began at 7 p.m. in Winnipeg. Organized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), the challenge has student teams consisting of three participants compete in solving a set of programming problems which range from moderate to difficult in complexity.

The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers is the largest

professional association in the world, pants spending the night on campus with over 400,000 members in 190 and programming throughout the countries. The U of M’s own Witold 24-hour period.

Kinsner is a life senior member of “What is unique about the the IEEE, student counsellor for the University of Manitoba’s perforIEEE’s U of M branch, past chair of mance this year is that it was comIEEE Winnipeg, and now president- pletely raw. There was no training elect of IEEE Canada. or preparation of the participants Kinsner oversaw the development before the event,” said Kinsner, who of the locally hosted event, along then went into some details about with 16 proctors from the faculty of the impressive statistics the event engineering, the department of com- produced. puter science, and the engineering The best team at the University industry. This year Winnipeg had six of Manitoba placed within the top teams compete, with many partici- 17 per cent globally, and the worst

The IEEEXtreme challenge is held annually in October. Anyone interested in participating in future years is encouraged to contact kinsner@ece. umanitoba.ca to find out more details.

Notes from Gnaraloo Sea turtle conservation in remote Western Australia Melissa Tan and Bailey Rankine, volunteer staff

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ecently, I resigned from Australian marine turtle conservation my position as Science and program. Over the next six months I Technology editor with the will be documenting my experience Manitoban to participate in an once- with the program and struggles with in-a-lifetime experience with an Australianisms at Gnaraloo Bay in the column, Notes from Gnaraloo.

Gnaraloo is a wilderness tourism business and working pastoral station on the Ningaloo Coast in Western Austra lia, located approximately 1,000 km north of Perth, and adjacent to the Ningaloo Marine Park. The goals of the Gnaraloo Turtle Conservation Program (GTCP) are to identify important nesting rookeries of the endangered marine turtles, and monitor and protect them. graphic provided by GTCP Gnaraloo is special

For more information please visit gnaraloo.com

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

Buzz across the board

Winnipeg’s board game café and restaurant seeing massive success Lauren Siddall, staff

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uess who has delicious, fresh food; is in one of Winnipeg’s trendiest areas; and has upwards of 700 board games? Across the Board, that’s who.

Winnipeg’s newest board game café is located in the heart of the Exchange on Albert Street – a location that made perfect sense to Clinton Skibitzky, the owner of the restaurant.

“Ideally we wanted something downtown for several reasons: it’s centrally located, and it’s also close to our other business, which has a certain practicality.”

Buzzing with culture, the Exchange District thrives on the unique. The buildings are, for the most part, repurposed, bursting with history and breathtaking architecture.

Across the Board is no exception.

Their building is over 100 years old, complete with spectacular moulding on the ceiling that perfectly tops off the restaurant.

The space is beautifully furnished, from the rich wooden tables to the chandeliers suspended from the ceiling, to the jaw-dropping board game library; 93 Albert Street is a work of art, as intended by the creators.

Upon visiting other, undisclosed game cafés across the globe, Skibitzky and business partner Olaf Pyttlik noticed what they consider to be a massive problem.

“A lot of them were kind of run down and had crappy plastic tables for people to sit at, and sold the kind of food that no one would really want

to eat, and weren’t licensed,” notes we went into an establishment in Skibitzky. “So it was the kind of Toronto and we were playing a game thing that we said ‘well, if we were and were hungry so ordered lunch, to do this, here’s a bunch of things we and the food was of a quality that, if would probably do differently, and I went back there, I would go out of here are things that would appeal to my way not to eat there.” our demographic’ [ . . . ] We wanted to have a real social atmosphere.”

Creating a menu customers would Boasting in excess actually enjoy was a priority. of 700 games—with “I wanted to have really good tasting food, really healthy food – as fresh 55 on their way from as possible, prepared here, as much as Germany—there is we can. It’s a limited space so there are some really finite constraints with something to pique that,” Skibitzky says of the menu. everyone’s interest “From my perspective, when we started out and talked to [chef] George, I wanted to have [an expeDue to the size constraints, chef rience] in contrast to some of these other experiences we had where George Hudson says he plans to

important to have a good set of games in each of those categories. And then it’s important to have games that can be played by everyone from one-person—we have a few that are just oneplayer games—to two-player games, and it’s nice to have a good selection of those just because it suits people coming in; and then you ramp all the way up to games you can play with lots of people.”

The Exchange restaurant also flaunts a board game expert during the evenings.

“They identify what sort of game the customer should play based on how long they want to stay, who they’re playing with, and games they haven’t played before. And with the big selection, it’s nice to be able to go change the menu seasonally. The ‘here’s something new to you.’”

Across the Board has far exceeded recently-released fall menu features warmer, heartier food – including Skibitzky’s original expectaa mouth-watering Indian, vegan- tions – particularly the restaurant friendly dish and a fresh arugula component.

“To be honest, a year ago if you garden salad.

The menu’s impressive diversity is had talked to me about this, we were matched and exceeded by the board making a game café that was also a restaurant. And I think it’s really game library.

Boasting in excess of 700 games— changed to being a restaurant that’s with another 55 on their way from also a game café. The restaurant has Germany—there is something to more than met its expectations that way; it’s been able to become as much pique everyone’s interest.

“There’s everything from a dex- of the identity as the games.” terity balance game, to a press your luck game, to a strategy game, to a Across the Board is located at 93 combination of both, to something Albert Street. They are open from where you have roles and you’re bluff- 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 11 a.m. to midnight on ing with people,” says Skibitzky.

“There are probably about 10 to 12 Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays; different categories of games. And it’s and are closed on Mondays.

Photos by Lauren Siddall

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Arts & Culture

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

New name, new music: Dan Mangan + Blacksmith Canadian indie rocker returns with psychedelic single and 2015 ambitions Ian T.D. Thomson, staff

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fter two years out of the spot- energy they’ve put into the project,” light, indie rocker Dan Mangan says Mangan. returns to the public eye, bringing Working with Colin Stewart— a six-piece band along for the ride. who has worked with artists Releasing a music video for their such as A.C. Newman and Pink new single “Vessels” on Oct. 21, Dan Mountaintops—Mangan describes Mangan and the band have high their co-producing partnership as hopes for the upcoming year. They clear-cut. are releasing their new album Club “Colin and I have a really beautiful Meds Jan. 13, 2015. working relationship. It’s easy,” states Mangan is a Canadian musi- Mangan. cian and songwriter based out of The end product of this partnerVancouver. While his music can be ship is Club Meds, featuring 11 tracks described generally as “indie folk- from the seven-piece ensemble rock,” the range of his music is much prepped for 2015. broader – drawing comparisons to Mangan saw releasing “Vessels” U.K. artists such as Radiohead and as the debut single as key to Club Peter Gabriel.

Meds’ introduction. “I think it’s a His last full-length album, Oh good segue into the new album for Fortune, earned him the 2012 Juno folks who are used to how our other Awards for “Alternative Album of the albums sound.”

Alongside an equally psychedelic Year” and “New Artist of the Year.”

W hile “Dan Mangan + music video, “Vessels” can be seen as a Blacksmith” is a new label, the band continued departure from Mangan’s Photo by Norman Wong is comprised of members who have earlier folk hits like “Robots” and been part of Mangan’s ensemble for “Road Regrets.” Featuring a simplis- For Happiness, an adventure-drama With Dan Mangan + Blacksmith ing how the band plays live, and I’m years. Having released music under tic flute synthesizer and reverberated starring Simon Pegg. Mangan, hav- taking the stage on March 5, 2015 at excited to introduce some projection his own name in the past, Mangan drum beat, the track continues to ing scored the film alongside fellow the Garrick Centre, Mangan alludes and more elaborate lighting.” saw it as only logical that credit be expand as the song progresses until B.C. musician Jesse Zubot, aligned to a colourful visual performance in given to the rest of the musicians. it reaches its finale as a chaotic sound- the release of the single with the the band’s live set.

Club Meds will be available on Jan. “We’ll be a seven-piece band, but 13, 2015. Dan Mangan + Blacksmith “It’s weird to feel like a band but be ing orchestra – all within the span of release of the film in theatres. named as an individual. This gives about three minutes.

While the album has yet to be we’ll also have some more visual ele- will be playing the Garrick Centre on credence to all the amazing players I The track was also key to the inde- made available, the band already has ments to the show this time around. March 5, 2015. Tickets are available at get to work with, and how much time/ pendent film Hector And The Search plans set for a North American tour. I want to keep expanding and evolv- galleryac.com and Ticketmaster.

The thin line between addictions counsellor and addict Review of The Couch of Willingness, a memoir by Michael Pond and Maureen Palmer Emma Higgs

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Couch of Willingness—written by Michael Pond, a psychotherapist living in Vancouver, and his partner, former CBC producer and current filmmaker Maureen Palmer— focuses on Pond’s adult life, following him to Vancouver Island, the Okanagan, and even rural Manitoba during a flashback to his childhood. he

The Couch of Willingness’s premise is straightforward: Pond is a successful psychotherapist who helps his clients overcome addictions.

He also happens to be an alcoholic on a downward spiral.

The unabashed irony of his circumstance renders the story surreal as Pond, the accomplished professional,

Photo by Carolyne Kroeker

rapidly loses control of his life.

Addiction’s volatile nature is put on full display as Pond attempts to hold on to the family and career he has worked towards for so long. Instead, his personal relationships with his wife, sons, clients, and friends all whither away to nothing, as his alcoholism hurts everyone he cares about.

The notorious “rock bottom” becomes all too real as Pond is kicked out of his home and treatment centres – ending up homeless, in recovery homes, incarcerated, or hospitalized.

The memoir fills with tension as the reader waits for the next inevitable bad decision from Pond, and every small step forward he manages is negated by catastrophic steps backward. It is only towards the end of the memoir that permanent sobriety becomes a realistic possibility for Pond.

The Couch of Willingness contains an interesting twist: the narrator is a trained psychotherapist, social

worker, and psychiatric nurse. The hectic events of the narrative are punctuated by moments of lucidity as Pond takes inventory of his current state, and mentally evaluates his appearance and level of functionality with clinical precision.

As Pond grapples with his own troubles, he notices contradictions and flaws within a system designed to assist some of society’s most vulnerable and powerless members.

Passages such as “Because the cruel irony here is that just when these guys need medication most, it’s forbidden. Fresh Start only accepts clients who aren’t on any medication,” highlight the many issues addicts face battling a dysfunctional system while attempting to reach sobriety.

The Couch of Willingness invites readers to empathize with members of society that are usually stigmatized or ignored. When the harsh realities of addiction and recovery options are

revealed, it becomes easier to understand the difficulty of achieving sobriety; there are inadequate supports available to those who need help most.

Pond and Palmer masterfully paced the memoir, and were wholly unapologetic in presenting the grittiest details of life in and out of recovery homes. The result is a riveting narrative that reads like fiction – a testament to their storytelling abilities.

Refreshingly honest, The Couch of Willingness leaves nothing to be imagined but reveals much to be desired when it comes to the addictions recovery system.

Michael Pond now has a psychotherapy practice out of Vancouver, where he lives with Maureen Palmer.

Pond currently specializes in addictions, mental health, relationships, and First Nations counselling.

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

Arts & Culture

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Indoor comforts and foodie opportunities Knox Community Kitchen re-opens indoor market every other Friday Ian T.D. Thomson, staff

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hile the weather outside may be getting frightful, the Knox Community Kitchen is hoping to make the fall and winter months a little more delightful.

Having re-opened its indoor market on Oct. 17, the community kitchen hopes to bring a diverse lineup of food and entertainment to every second Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the colder months to come.

The community kitchen is located in the historic Knox United Church (400 Edmonton Street) in the heart of Winnipeg. The re-opening of the kitchen’s indoor market came about after a successful pilot project run in March that continued until June of this year.

Natasha Ross, executive director of the Knox Community Kitchen, sees the impact of the kitchen and indoor market in the larger context of the downtown area around Central Park.

“I think Central Park has the potential to be a more frequented destination for leisure and cultural activity, but one of the challenges we face in Central Park are perceptions of safety,” explains Ross.

“Our market and kitchen attempt to deal with this issue by creating events and opportunities that bring outsiders to the neighbourhood on a frequent basis through food-based activities.”

The main attractions for customers are the food commodities that are provided.

“Our product offering is diverse and includes prepared and readyto-eat foods from Africa and the Philippines; baked goods (breads, cupcakes and pies); authentic Belgian waffles; gourmet donuts; healthy meal packages; and Texas-style breakfast tacos,” explains Ross.

“My mouth is watering just talking about it!”

Since opening earlier this year, the Knox Community Kitchen has offered food entrepreneurs unique business opportunities and experiences.

“Our commercial kitchen helps get food businesses started that would normally not be able to due to the high cost of establishing a commercial kitchen,” says Ross.

“We are helping people improve their earning potential and financial security – while supporting and

encouraging the creation of new and unique food products to be enjoyed.”

Buttercream by Alareen

Community Kitchen indoor market.

“Because my orders are primarily online and I do not have a store front, the market is a great way for people to sample my products without putting an order in and it also helps to put a face to a name.”

Alareen Doherty, owner of the food venture Buttercream by Alareen, specializes in the sweet and savoury.

“I design, create, and bake custom-made cakes, cupcakes, cake For more information on pops, cupcakes in a jar, and anything Buttercream by Alareen, visit baked,” explains Doherty. buttercreambyalareen.com Providing her custom delicacies for all occasions and special events, Menu Beyond Borders Doherty speaks highly of what the Menu Beyond Borders provides community kitchen has been able to Winnipeggers with plates from provide for her and her business. around the world.

“Having baked from home for “Our meals come from many difmonths, the move to Knox Kitchen ferent countries, and are a rich source has been incredibly beneficial for my of inspiration worthy to be tasted business. Working in the commer- and sure to satisfy; whether it is your cial kitchen has greatly improved my first taste, or one you’ve been missing production efficiency – allowing me from home,” explains sole proprietor to bake mass quantities of products Helen Akue, who offers items such in a short time frame,” says Doherty. as beef and chicken pies (also known “Cake decorating requires many as “Jamaican patties”) and oxtail soup. tools and supplies [ . . . ] This [move] The Knox Community Kitchen has freed up a large amount of space has provided Akue with a source of in my small 800-sq.-ft. home.” inspiration in her craft.

As one of the businesses present at “The availability of the commerthe inaugural re-opening on Oct. 17, cial kitchen in a strategic location Doherty sees potential in the Knox has allowed me to test my business

ideas and given me the opportunity for growth in the food industry,” explains Akue.

“The kitchen location is very central, with lots of diverse cultures visiting the Knox Church building for different programs [ . . . ] This cultural diversity has inspired my business idea.”

With the re-opening of the indoor market, Akue and Menu Beyond Borders returned to 400 Edmonton Street.

“It was exciting to be part of the market again. I met with new and old customers and colleagues, which was great.”

For more information on Menu Beyond Borders, visit menubeyondborders.com The Knox Community Kitchen at Knox Church (400 Edmonton Street) presents its indoor market every Friday bi-weekly from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The next indoor market will be on Oct. 31.

Evil Dead: The Musical at the Park Theatre Cult classic turned musical premiers in Winnipeg Caitlyn Maskiew, volunteer staff

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innipeg is known for its enthusiastic support of cult films, and now an opportunity to see one re-imagined on stage is approaching. Evil Dead: The Musical has its Park Theatre premier on Oct. 29 and runs until Nov. 9. It is an interactive production, sure to get everyone into the Halloween spirit.

The Evil Dead series is comprised of four movies directed by Sam Raimi. The first installment premiered in 1981, with the subsequent movies taking the world by storm, becoming cult classics.

While the four movies directed by Raimi are the only official films, there have been unofficial sequels produced in Italy, as well as an indirect sequel featuring one of the film’s original characters in his day-to-day life.

From the movies came the musical, which is an international sensation.

It has been produced 150 times, all over the world – including as a offBroadway production in New York, and with variations in Tokyo and Seoul.

The writers took plot liberties and combined the original movies into one fulllength, two-act musical featuring songs such as “All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons” and “Ode to an Accidental Stabbing.”

The music is fun and exciting, the composition is reminiscent of the doo-wop style of Little Shop of Horrors. The musical features many famous moments from the movies and some of Ash’s classic one-liners.

The showing at Park Theatre will include the “splatter zone.” Players and producers invite patrons to show up in full costume.

films – such as Phantom of the Paradise, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and The Room.

“Winnipeg loves interacting with performers, so that was another draw for me as well,” Greene says. He had heard of others wishing to put the show on, and subsequently hired director Cory Wreggitt to take on the project.

The show features local performers who Greene and Wreggitt had previous experience with, in addition to others recruited through a public “It’s an experience; casting call. Greene was amazed at you’ll get the overwhelming response to the entertainment unlike casting call; many talented individuals showed up to audition for the show. anything you’ve Even the choreographers, art directors, and make-up production seen before” – Quinn team are local. This show is someGreene, producer thing Winnipeg should be proud of. “[Evil Dead: The Musical] is a live theatre performance you can’t get The show is accessible to everyone, anywhere else,” explains Greene. even if you have never heard of the “We encourage costumes, we encourfranchise. For musical theatre enthu- age interactivity [ . . . ] it’s an experisiasts, there are great song and dance ence; you’ll get entertainment unlike numbers, and for action-inclined anything you’ve seen before.” individuals, the musical is packed Evil Dead: The Musical will be with great fight choreography.

Producer Quinn Greene saw a shown at the Park Theatre from unique opportunity in Winnipeg, a Oct. 29 until Nov. 9. Tickets are city with a penchant for loving cult available on ticketfly.com

Photo provided by April Plett Photography

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Arts & Culture

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

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

Bison briefs

Football and volleyball

Shoot for the cure, score for the herd Bison women’s hockey sweeps Lethbridge at home David Grad, staff

David Grad and Mike Still, staff

Football

returned to the lineup after missing The University of Manitoba last week. Dobie tallied 10 digs and Bisons found themselves on the one kill in her return on Friday, but wrong end of an upset for the sec- it wasn’t enough to help the Bisons ond time this season, as they fell overcome the balanced attack of 56-41 on the road against Regina.

UBC Okanagan.

Early miscues by backupThe Heat maintained that wellturned-starting quarterback Theo rounded attack all weekend. Four Deezar helped Regina jump out players had eight or more kills on to a 28-0 lead midway through Friday, and seven or more kills on the second quarter. Despite a val- Saturday. iant effort from the Bisons, who The loss puts the Bisons into responded with 24 unanswered ninth place in Canada West. They points of their own, a Manitoba have a lot of ground to make up if win was not meant to be. The com- they are going to reach the playbination of running offs. Manitoba back Atlee Simon, continues their Manitoba play on the road (154 yards rushing, 3 TDs) and Noah as they take on added to Picton (17-24, 368 Trinity Western the Heat’s yards, 3 TDs) was in Langley next too much for the weekend. season woes Manitoba defence, by sweeping which also lost Men’s volleyball starting safet y their weekend Tyler Fong in the T he Bis on series, first half. men’s volleyball team rolled into Despite the loss, winning in there were some Kelow na t h is positives for the weekend to take three straight Bisons. Offensively, on the winless sets Friday Deezar settled UBC Okanagan down in the second Heat.

Coming off night, (25-22, half, and finished a strong perfor25-17, 25-22) with 439 yards, and mance at home four TDs, while last weekend, that and three Nic Demski had saw coach Pischke a whale of a game, break the North sets to one hauling in nine American all-time on Saturday receptions for 238 coach ing w in yards, and a TD. record, the Bisons night (21Defensively, Jayden were brimming 25, 25-18, McKoy continued with confidence. to shine, recording Manitoba 25-15, 25-22) 11 total tackles and added to the Heat’s a forced fumble. season woes by The next football action will sweeping their weekend series, come this Saturday at Investors winning in three straight sets Group Field against top-ranked Friday night, (25-22, 25-17, 25-22) Calgary, in Manitoba’s final regu- and three sets to one on Saturday lar season home game of the year. night (21-25, 25-18, 25-15, 25-22).

Kickoff is at 2 p.m.

Devren Dear led the attack on Friday with 14 kills, while Adam Women’s volleyball DeJonckheere had a strong allThe Bison women’s volleyball around game with a team-leading team was on the road this weekend, seven digs plus nine kills. Luke taking on the fourth-ranked UBC Herr led the team in assists with 28.

Okanagan Heat. The Bisons were The Heat took the first set on unable to stamp out the Heat, los- Saturday, but the Bisons responded ing 3-1 (25-15, 19-25, 26-11, 25-23) on with a solid team effort. Dear talFriday night and 3-0 (25-17, 25-15, lied 21 kills and led the Herd with 25-15) on Saturday night.

14 digs. DeJonckheere had 18 kills Captains Rachel Cockrell and 12 digs, Kenny Rooney picked and Brittany Habing continued up 10 kills and six digs, and Luke their strong play this weekend Herr had 46 assists. Dear now in Kelowna. Friday night saw moves into fourth overall for most Cockrell pick up 18 kills and eight kills per set in Canada West and digs, and Habing collect 31 assists Luke Herr has the third highest and 14 digs. The duo continues to assists per set in the conference. shine this year and will be relied on to help the Bisons regain their The weekend wins move the winning form.

Bisons into a tie for second in Starting libero Caleigh Dobie the Canada West Conference.

photo by Shawn Coates

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oming off of a weekend sweep on the road against Mount Royal, the Bison women’s hockey team returned to Wayne Fleming Arena this week to take on the Lethbridge Pronghorns. Led by rookie Alanna Sharman and sophomore Rachel Dyck, Manitoba took it to the visitors, winning both matinee games.

On Saturday afternoon, the team laced up with pink, wrapped their sticks in pink tape, and redecorated the Wayne Fleming Arena with pink streamers and balloons in support of Shoot For the Cure. With a large crowd in attendance, the Bisons delivered a 3-1 victory.

Manitoba opened the scoring seven minutes into the game with a rocket off Sharman’s stick. The Longhorns tied the game and put the Bisons on their heels with 20 seconds left in the first period on a goal by Sadie Lenstra. Lethbridge went into the break with the momentum, something that head coach Jon Rempel touched on.

“I thought we did a really good job of not panicking,” Rempel said.

“I thought we were flat. They were winning most of the battles and competing for the puck.”

The Longhorns carried the play in the second period, but were taken down a notch by a strong power play from the Bisons near the end of the second. Erica Rieder had several good chances from the blue line and made a clean pass to Sharman, who almost netted her second of the night.

Rempel pointed to the power play at the end of the second period as the turning point in the game for the Bisons.

“I thought it gave us a little more confidence to do things with the puck [ . . . ] And I really think that generated some momentum and a little more energy for the third,” said Rempel.

“These kids coming in here aren’t afraid to play, not afraid of the big moments, and they’re not afraid of responsibility” – Jon Rempel, head coach, Bison women’s hockey team The Bisons took the lead for good at 6:42 of the third, moments after Caitlin Fyten prevented a shorthanded break, which then allowed Megan Tully to put away the eventual game winner. Almost a minute later, Sharman netted the insurance goal for the Bisons to cap the scoring.

Dyck had a 16-save performance in net, continuing to lead the Canada West with the lowest goals against average. Rempel lauded the play of his goalie, touching on her

work ethic.

“No question Rachel is pretty dialled in. I really think her approach every day is what’s showing up in games here. Her diligence in practice, her diligence in the weight room, things she did in the off-season, the things she does with her goalie coach; she set the bar really high,” Rempel said.

Sunday afternoon saw Amanda Schubert called to the net, where she helped backstop the Bisons’ 5-3 win over the Pronghorns. Manitoba improved to an impressive 6-1-1 and are currently tied for the top spot in the Canada West.

Sharman continued her impressive rookie campaign by adding a power play goal in the second period. Two Bisons found the back of the net twice on Sunday: rookie forward Lauryn Keen and second-year forward Alana Serhan.

The youth on the Bisons have had a considerable impact on the success of this team, and coach Rempel had high praise for this year’s recruitments’ class.

“These kids coming in here aren’t afraid to play, not afraid of the big moments, and they’re not afraid of responsibility,” said Rempel.

The Bisons are on a bye this week.

Their next action takes place Nov. 7 against the University of Alberta in an important matchup on the road.

The University of Alberta is currently tied with the Bisons for first in the conference. Game times are at 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday.

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Sports

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

Game of throws A closer look at the University of Manitoba’s ultimate frisbee team Mike Still, staff

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midst the numerous Bison student athletes competing in weekly action stand the lesserknown teams, which fall under the recreation clubs category. There are currently 11 groups, which play either competitively or leisurely.

One of the groups that perform competitively is the ultimate frisbee team.

Jesse Greenberg, the current president/captain of the University of Manitoba’s ultimate team, has been around since the club resurfaced a couple of seasons ago.

“There was a team a while back which ran for a few years and just kind of ended once players graduated. I started playing in 2011 when the team first started up again,” said Greenberg. “We only became affiliated with the U of M last year. The team is made up of a solid mix of veterans from 2011 and the past two years.”

The process of trying out for the team is relatively simple. It occurs at the end of August and beginning of September every year.

“We typically see a lot of graduates from the junior provincial program come try out for spots, but as of recently we’ve been seeing more players who haven’t taken the for-

to compete with the team.”

Manitoba has had a fair amount of success at the CUUC since their rebirth in 2011. They placed first in 2011, second in 2012, and seventh in 2013, before recapturing the gold just a few weeks ago in Montreal.

Greenberg was quite thrilled with the way the team responded one year after an unfortunate finish.

“It felt good to be on top again.

This is my second time winning gold in the university series.

Especially after last year’s seventh place result, it felt much better redeeming ourselves and having the chance to rematch the teams we lost to last year in Ottawa,” said Greenberg. mal provincial team role trying out,” “The last time we placed first was said Greenberg. in 2011, which was my first year “After tryouts we announce playing for the university team. I’m players who will be coming to looking forward to next year as well, nationals (also known as the since no one will be graduating or Canadian University Ultimate leaving the team.”

Championships) with the team.

When asked what the most This year we started up a B team enjoyable part about being on the with a mix of veterans and new team is, Greenberg was quick to players to attend the Canadian emphasize the competitive aspect.

Prairie University Ultimate “The best part about playing Championships in Regina as well.” university ultimate is the competiAs Greenberg mentioned, 2013 tion and good times had at tourwas the first year the team became naments. We put in a lot of effort officially affiliated with Recreation during practices to perform well at Services, which affected the pro- the tournaments we attend and it’s tocol for who was able to attend always great to see everyone wantnationals with the club. ing to win and making it happen,” “In previous years we simply got said Greenberg. as many players as possible together “There’s something about unito send a team to nationals. We versity sports that adds an extra would receive funding from the level of enjoyment and camaradeManitoba Organization of Disc rie when trying to win a national Sports and an Ultimate Canada championship.” subsidy and headed off to nationals – otherwise we had no affiliation,” If anyone has any questions about Greenberg said. potentially trying out for the ulti“We had combined our players mate team next season, they can from the U of W as well and got contact Greenberg, at jesse_greenconsortium status, which allowed berg@hotmail.com, or visit the us to compete as “Manitoba” for team’s Facebook page, which 2011 and 2012. In 2013 we registered can be found under “University as a club in Recreation Services of Manitoba Ultimate Club.” and only allowed U of M players

photos by Jesse Greenberg

Shooting for the top

2014-15 Bison basketball season preview Mike Still, staff

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here is nowhere to go but up for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams at the University of Manitoba in 2014-15. Coming off of what could be considered a “character building” season in 2013-14, where neither squad made the playoffs, look for increased drive and focus heading into a new campaign.

Men’s team

the team) provide energy in the back court, while Wyatt Anders and Brett Jewell will be vital in the front court.

Anders, another senior, was third on the team in rebounds last season with 118 while Jewell, entering his third year, will see an enhanced role after the graduation of Dan Penner, who led the team in all but one rebounding category in 2013-14.

If history holds true, the 201415 season should be a successful one for the Bison men’s basketball Women’s team team. Head coach Kirby Schepp, After serving as co-head coach entering his sixth year at the helm for the past two seasons, Michele for Manitoba, has not missed the Hynes will be in full control of the playoffs in two consecutive seasons women’s basketball team in 2014-15. since taking the A member of the reins for the Bisons herd from 2005Head coach back in 2009-10.

10, Hynes was a With a stable mix captain the last Kirby Schepp, of veterans as well time the Bisons entering his as experienced clinched a playoff younger players, berth back in 2008sixth year at Manitoba should 09, and will look the helm for to lead her squad see a huge turnaround from their to the post-season Manitoba, has 6-16 record last this year. year.

The Bisons never missed The Bisons will had just six playthe playoffs be led by fifthers compete in all year point guard 22 regular season in two Stephan Walton, games last season, consecutive who is returning and will have five to the lineup after of them (all seniors) seasons suffering a knee return for 2014injury in the pre15. Stephanie Gill, season last year, which sidelined Robyn Eyer, Sheree Carmonahim for all of 2013-14. A Canada Galdamez, Allison Balasko, and West All-Star the previous year, Vanessa DeVries will all play critical with 17.3 points per game and five roles this season, on a team that is assists, Walton helped guide the otherwise relatively young.

Bisons to a second place, 14-8 record Gill (fourth in team scoring in 2012-13. He has the ability to last year) and Eyer (third in team change any game single-handedly scoring) were captains last season with his speed and intelligence on and will likely maintain those roles the court, and having him back this year. Carmona-Galdamez and will be crucial to the team’s suc- Balasko both reached double digcess going forward. its in points per game (10.8, and 10 Having depth at the point guard respectively) while DeVries was position will also aid Manitoba. first on the team in steals and offenThis will come from fellow fifth- sive rebounds, as well as second in year senior and 2013-14 captain defensive rebounds.

Amir Ali, who played in all 22 conSecond-year Jenilyn Monton ference games last season. His lead- (second on team in field goal perership, both on and off the court, centage at .395) and third-year will be a key asset for the Bisons.

Rebecca Potter (played in 21 of 22 Dynamic sophomores Andre games) will add depth and energy Arruda (2013-14 Canada West for Manitoba.

Rookie of the Year), and Justus Alleyn (2.4 assists per game, led

VOL. 101 NO. 40 October 29, 2014

Sports

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Focusing on fitness fundamentals Johnny Fukumoto and his local fitness centre Fukumoto Fitness Mike Still, staff

Fukumoto has been a leader Johnny all of his life. The 31-year-old gradu-

place to start, or somewhere else,” options for them within the same said Fukumoto. workout,” said Fukumoto. ate of kinesiology at Wilfrid Laurier There are four different programs Along with providing a safe and University spent two years as a site at Fukumoto Fitness, with the main fun training environment, Fukumoto director for Canadian Mennonite one being smart group training. The also gives back to the community in University’s adventure program to program consists of up to 17 people a variety of ways, including a “pumpSouth Africa, and made three sepa- and runs on a five-week cycle. It is kin charity workout,” with proceeds rate trips to Romania for mission completely dependent on each indi- going directly to the Mood Disorders work. Fukumoto understands the vidual’s personal fitness, with the Association of Manitoba.

“We cover some pretty important importance of community and giv- group ranging from 15-70 years old. ing back.

The first four weeks consist of hard things, but mental health, and the This attitude is also reflected at his training, with the following week connection with exercise, we haven’t gym. Located at 4-521 Golspie Street devoted to yoga and technique to give really gone into,” said Fukumoto. in East Kildonan, Fukumoto focuses the body a rest.

“Most of our clients, that would on safety, regulation, and realistic be the number one or number two fitness goals for his clients. reason that they say they come every day, is stress relief, mental health, or “My motivation (for starting “There’s not really Fukumoto Fitness) kind of came out even managing depression and anxia lot of regulation of seeing a need for higher quality ety. Knowing that now, it seemed like in fitness period, training. There’s not really a lot of a natural fit.” regulation in fitness period, and so Fukumoto noted that the workout and so you get you get such a difference in quality is focused on having fun as well as and safety no matter where you go,” such a difference in getting people involved and staying said Fukumoto. active. quality and safety Before admitting a client and takThe event occurs on Saturday, ing their money, Fukumoto has them Nov. 1, at Fukumoto Fitness. The no matter where do a movement assessment, which cost is $15, and participants are you go” – Johnny helps to detect potential imbalances asked to bring a pumpkin, which on either side of the body. should be at least 10 pounds, to Fukumoto, owner, “If there’s a thousand fitness places, use for the exercises. Last year, the we will be probably the only one in charity workout raised over $1,500.

Fukumoto Fitness a group training format who goes, ‘you may or may not be able to join, You can check out Fukumoto Fitness by we have to take a look to see where “[The clients are] all working at visiting their website, fukumotofitness. you’re at.’ Then we can give an hon- their own fitness level and depending com, emailing info@fukumotofitest recommendation if this is a good on their limitations, there’s different ness.com, or calling (204) 282-9507.

photo by Bruce Zinger

Getting to know Garth The background behind head coach Garth Pischke’s legacy at the U of M Mike Still, staff

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ast weekend, Garth Pischke broke the North American men’s university coaching record with victory number 1,240, passing longtime UCLA men’s volleyball coach Al Scates. In honour of Pischke’s achievement, the Manitoban decided to look back on his history, both as a player and coach.

Pischke had a storied volleyball playing career, which first began at Silver Heights (now Stugeron Heights) Collegiate in 1970. Between 1970-76, he played for two Canadian junior championship teams, and also had the honour of being selected to the 1976 Canadian Olympic team when he was in grade 12.

He has also played on three CIS national championship teams. The first two were with Winnipeg, and the third was with Manitoba, in 1977-78.

Pischke has been involved in all 10 CIS national championships with Manitoba. Nine of those came as a coach, one as a player. His earliest national championship as coach occurred in 1980, the latest occurred in 2003.

The well-respected coach, cur-

rently in year 33 at the helm, was elected into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 1989, the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame in 1999, and the Canadian Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2000. He was also honoured as Manitoba’s Athlete of the Century in 2000.

“I have always had incredible respect for [Pischke] because of his own athletic career and of course his coaching success. He is known worldwide as one of the greatest players, which few can only dream of,” said Voth.

One more recent memory Voth has with Pischke was when his former coach found out about his sexuality.

The well-respected The meeting spoke to Pischke’s character, according to Voth. coach was elected “He apologized that he wasn’t able into the Manitoba to be there for me because he knew that it must have been tough and isoSports Hall of Fame lating. It was such a relief to hear that. in 1989, the Canadian It honestly gave me that little extra to come out,” Voth said.

Olympic Hall of Fame courage “I was so moved by his willingness to put himself in an uncomfortable in 1999, and the situation, to be there for me and to Canadian Volleyball learn about something he didn’t know Hall of Fame in 2000 anything about. My respect for him skyrocketed.”

Pischke has proven himself as a Over 32 of Pischke’s players have player and coach, and, as evidenced also gone on to the national stage. by Voth, he is also not afraid to go One of those athletes is Chris Voth, above and beyond for his team. His who played with Garth from 2003 service, both on and off the court can until 2013, and has many positive rec- be summed up as nothing less than ollections of his former coach. exemplary.

photo provided by Bison Sports