27 August 2014

Thirsting for solutions Crucial issues are working their way into our water columns. Dive into our immersive coverage.

Pages 4, 9, 10, and 11

VO L 1 0 1 路 N O 3 2 路 AU G U ST 2 7, 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. 32 August 27, 2014

NEWS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bryce Hoye

Engineering admission policy protested

editor@themanitoban.com / 474.8293

BUSINESS MANAGER Angela England

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ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Sara Bulloch

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EDITORIAL

SENIOR NEWS EDITOR Dana Hatherly

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NEWS EDITOR Craig Adolphe

katy@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

COMMENT EDITOR Katerina Tefft

International students' entry requirements higher than domestic students.

Protesters gathered outside the University of Manitoba Administration Building July 17.

comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

MANAGING EDITOR Fraser Nelund

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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Bailey Rankine

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ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Katy MacKinnon

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SPORTS EDITOR Mike Still

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COPY EDITOR Carlyn Schellenberg

page 4

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DESIGN

DESIGN EDITOR Bradly Wohlgemuth

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GRAPHICS EDITOR Bram Keast

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PHOTO EDITOR Carolyne Kroeker

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DESIGN ASSOCIATE vacant GRAPHICS ASSOCIATE vacant

REPORTERS

NEWS vacant NEWS vacant SCIENCE vacant ARTS & CULTURE vacant ARTS & CULTURE vacant SPORTS vacantl ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR vacant

VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTORS

Will Gibson Lauren Siddal Caitlyn Maskiew Tanner Devlin

EDITORIAL

Page from the Past

The Manitoban's coverage of water woes a decade ago. page 11

COMMENT

Carter Wilson Justin Ladia Travis Ross Aldo Rios

ARTS & CULTURE

Battleground Booking it Must reads before the school Ferguson year monopolizes your time.

America continues to war with its citizens.

page 8

Andrew Vineberg Kara Passey David Grad Brenda Still

page 12-13 SPORTS

Bisons charging into 2014 season A detailed account of the football squad's depth. page 17

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News

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

Council signs long-term health and dental contract Student union makes changes to policy manual in order to sign 5 to 7 year health and dental contract CRAIG ADOLPHE, STAFF

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t the June 16 council meeting tional option, has since been signed.

UMSU approved changes to Kopp said the changes will benefit their policy manual allowing the UMSU members.

The new contract will provide student union to enter into longterm health and dental contracts. long-term stability, reduce costs Council subsequently approved a associated with undergoing an second motion to sign a multi-year annual tendering process, and lock health and dental contract with its in a set health and dental fee rate broker for the 2013-2014 school year, for the duration of the contract, said StudentCare .

Kopp.

The first motion changed policy Council minutes also indicate #2508 of UMSU’s Policy Manual, that the deal with StudentCare which addresses contracts and agree- includes provisions for a onetime ments, under the section “Multi-year $100,000 donation to UMSU in Contracts.” The change removes a the 2014-2015 school year as well as line prohibiting UMSU from sign- $10,000 in annual sponsorships. ing an agreement for the provision “Establishing a long-term partor brokerage of a health, dental, or ner creates huge sponsorship potenother insurance tial,” Kopp said. plan that would “This is money “I think that in a commit UMSU that will go or its memberright back to the system where ship to any one students’ pockthe governing prov ider for ets and into more than one new and existbody is elected year. ing services for yearly, the ability Other students.” changes to Only 27 of 44 to sign multi-year come with this sitting council contracts is an motion included members were an expansion of in attendance overreach and responsibility for the June for the execucouncil meetmay be considered tive committee, ing. UMSU’s undemocratic by extending their meetings move m a nd ate to to a monthly students who feel include reviewformat for the unrepresented” – ing and summer months approving all when attendEmily Zarychta, multi-year conance tends to tracts instead of be significantly University 1 council just those related lower than norrepresentative to UMSU mal. Excluding businesses. the meeting A si m i l a r held during last expansion of responsibility was given year’s UMSU election, the meetings to the UMSU Council, extending in May and June represented the two their mandate to include reviewing least attended meetings since Nov. and approving all multi-year con- 18, 2013. tracts instead of just those outside Despite the low attendance, Kopp of UMSU businesses. expressed confidence in the level of There was a shift in mandate for consultation done with council. the finance committee, mandating “Council was extremely wellreview and approval by the finance versed in the negotiations and procommittee of all multi-year contracts cess,” said Kopp. “They were updated relating to UMSU businesses while every step of the way at council removing responsibilities to review meetings and the UMSU retreat. and approve non-UMSU businesses“It was very important to us that related multi-year contracts. our actions reflected the will of The second motion submitted by UMSU Council. Everyone received the executive committee called for proper notification of motions as per the executive to “finalize negotiation UMSU bylaws and policies,” he said. of and execute a multi-year agreeFaculty of Music Students’ ment with UMSU’s current health Association vice-stick Kieran and dental insurance plan broker.” Labossière was in attendance for Both motions were adopted. council’s June meeting and described Jeremiah Kopp, UMSU vice- the experience differently. president internal and chair of the “We’d come back from the UMSU policy and bylaws, finance, and retreat the day prior [ . . . ] [the health and dental plan committees, multi-year contract] was only briefly told the Manitoban that a contract touched upon,” said Labossière. for five years, with a two-year addiWhen asked if there were any

concerns from council about signing a long-term health and dental contract, Kopp said there were none.

A note from the meeting’s minutes indicates that the recording device for the meeting failed to operate correctly and as a result questions and comments about the change in policy from the meeting weren’t transcribed.

“There were quite a few questions,” Labossière noted. “Much of them along the line of ‘a multi-year contract, is that really a good idea? What if [ . . . ] we’ve signed into this longer contract with poor service for us?’”

University 1 council rep Emily Zarychta said she was one of the council members to raise concerns at the June meeting.

“The benefit is that the student union can theoretically receive discounts and cheaper prices with multi-year contracts, and the costs associated with negotiations will be cheaper because the negotiations will happen less frequently than if the negotiations occurred yearly,” said Zarychta.

“The downside is that the union will be trapped in contracts for terms longer than the UMSU positions, which are one year in length [ . . . ] It is possible that new students at the University of Manitoba may feel unrepresented over multi-year contracts being imposed on them,” said Zarychta.

“I think that in a system where the governing body is elected yearly, the ability to sign multi-year contracts is an overreach and may be considered undemocratic by students who feel unrepresented – if, say, another slate is elected the following year over an issue that they cannot contractually change, due to a previously signed multi-year contract.”

Arts Student Body Council representative Jack Zinger also raised questions at the June council meeting, but feels confident about the multi-year plan.

“I just wanted a little more information about it, but after hearing the actual benefits I definitely think it’s a great idea,” said Zinger.

“I know lots of other schools across Canada are switching to multi-year plans as well; that way you can negotiate better rates with the broker who in turn can get multi-year deals with the actual insurers like Blue Cross.

“I think there could have been a bit more notice but at the same time I believe it was a work in progress, so until they got a deal they weren’t going to present it to students,” said Zinger.

OLD POLICY

NEW POLICY

Any multi-year contract or A multi-year contract or agreeagreement relating to the opera- ment relating to the operation of the tion of the UMSU businesses must UMSU businesses must be reviewed be reviewed and approved by the and approved by Finance Committee.

Executive Committee prior to Multi-year contracts or being signed. agreements must be reviewed Any other multi-year contract and approved by the Executive or agreement must be reviewed Committee followed by the and approved by the Finance approval of UMSU Council.’

Committee and UMSU Council.

“UMSU is prohibited from UMSU is prohibited from entering into an agreement for signing an agreement for the the brokerage of a health, dental, provision or brokerage of a health, or other insurance plan that would dental, or other insurance plan commit UMSU to a multi-year that would commit UMSU or its contract with an insurer.” (UMSU membership to any one provider council minutes, June 16) for more than one year. (From UMSU policy manual) It appears as if the final line of the new policy includes informaBoth of these excerpts are verbatim tion contradicting the intent transcripts from UMSU documents. of the change to the multiyear section of the policy. This appears to be a clerical error.

GRAPHIC BY ALDO RIOS

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News

VOL. 101 NO. 32 August 27, 2014

International students protest faculty of engineering admission policies Students protest policies they call discriminatory outside of University of Manitoba administration building CRAIG ADOLPHE, STAFF

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group of University of aside for international students. In because they couldn’t get into the Manitoba students and sup- this year’s cohort that number is 13.7 faculty of engineering.” porters protested on July 17 against per cent with 48 of the 348 admit“It’s so sad because this issue what they called discriminatory ted to the faculty are international could have been resolved if [the admissions policies at the univer- students. That figure puts the U of faculty] had indicated [the cut-off] sity’s faculty of engineering.

M on par with the national aver- properly to the students.”

Demonstrators were protesting age of 13.7 per cent for engineering The policy of limiting numbers the discrepancy between admis- faculties and above the University of international students is not spesions cut-offs for international stu- Strategic Enrolment Plan’s stated cific to the faculty of engineering. dents and domestic students. goal of 10 per cent, Beddoes said.

The University of Manitoba’s Domestic students required a “The faculty of engineering Admissions Viewbook states: minimum 2.94 GPA to be con- works closely with the university “First responsibility is the provisidered for the faculty’s civil engi- Enrolment Services, International sion of education for residents of neering stream in the 2014-2015 College of Manitoba (ICM), and the province of Manitoba who academic year, while international others on international student are Canadian citizens/permanent students required a minimum 4.13 enrolment,” said Beddoes. “All residents. Therefore, admission of GPA. Civil engineering has the first-year ENG engineering courses international or out-of-province largest differential between domes- have been offered successfully for students to some programs may tic and international students but many years by ICM and all will be limited.” similar differences exist for the bio- again be offered in the upcoming Although Thapa thinks intersystems, computer, electrical, and 2014/15 academic year.” national students applying to the mechanical streams.

Beddoes said that the high GPA faculty of engineering were treated Representatives of the Canadian cut-off for international students is unfairly, he was aware the faculty Federation of Students, including a result of a large number of inter- has a policy that favours charging CFS-Manitoba chairperson Zach national students applying, adding international students more than Fleisher, were on hand to offer sup- that “within the resources available, Canadians. port to protesters. every effort is being made to expand “I came to Canada knowing that “I was asked to help co-ordinate enrolment in engineering programs my tuition fee was high and I have the media,” said Fleisher. “The big to satisfy student demand to study no problem paying differential thing for me was to be there to sup- engineering.” tuition fees.” port students.”

Thapa remains unsatisfied. He Despite the tension between the Astitwa Thapa, president of the said that under existing policies, international students and the facNepali Students’ Association, was international students are being ulty of engineering, Fleisher said he one such student. turned away unexpectedly. believes there are solutions.

Thapa, a student in the faculty of “People come here, they come “What I’d like to see is a system environment, earth, and resources, to Canada, thinking they will go [developed] across all universities helped organize the protest and to school,” said Thapa. “Some of in Manitoba where the students has been calling on the faculty of them went to Ottawa, some of have representation through these engineering to end what he calls them went to Red River College decision-making mechanisms.” a discriminatory policy. He characterizes the high cut-off rate for international students as a surprise for many international students expecting to attend in the 2014-2015 academic year.

“You’re entitled to make a change in the policy but you’re not entitled to not share this with the students and ruin their lives,” Thapa told the Manitoban.

But faculty of engineering dean Jonathan Beddoes said no changes have been made to the faculty’s admissions policy and that the faculty has actually increased its number of admitted international students over the past several years.

“Last year 57 international students were admitted to engineering programs,” said Beddoes. “But in 2008 there were only 22 admissions of international students.”

The faculty of engineering aims to have 12 to 15 per cent of spots set PHOTO BY ZACH FLEISHER

Fighting for water rights in First Nation communities Reflections on the struggle for water and sanitation in Canada DANA HATHERLY, STAFF

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n June 25 to 26 the University about how to study and address of Manitoba faculty of law water issues and inequalities. hosted the CREATE H20 and Interdisciplinary research was Water Rights Conference, which highlighted at the conference, demfocused on the struggle for secur- onstrating that holistic approaches ing clean drinking water and sani- are required to grapple with critical tation facilities in First Nation questions about water resources. communities.

Cross-faculty participation and Communities in our country community-based orientation at the continue to face water contami- conference allowed for the sharnation from industrial pollution ing of ideas between academics and waste. These communities and communities about watershed have been stripped from access to studies, including environmental, high-quality and affordable water engineering, microbiological, economic, psychological, and legal resources in their region. considerations.

The city’s clean People at drinking water The struggle the conference is supplied from explored the Shoal Lake to for water idea of combinWinnipeg along a ing scientif ic historic 150 metre persists, and traditional underground driving debates indigenous peraqueduct. The spectives about region supplies in both the water and life water to urban academy and in First Nation centres, yet rural communities communities in courtroom for determining the Shoal Lake drinking water region experience quality and condifficulty affording and accessing clean drinking water tamination and improving access to water in First Nations regions. for themselves.

Debates about water rights Depending on the source and the region, residents have been have occurred at Robson Hall under boil-water advisory for 12-20 before. This year’s event reflected years. The community resorts to the previous 2012-2013 Critical Conversations seminar series on hauling in their drinking water.

Water resources in the area the right to water in First Nation are consistently being extracted, communities, hosted by U of M law exported, and sold at more afford- professor and Centre for Human able rates to people living outside Rights Research director Karen Busby. the region.

The CREATE H20 and Water Evidently the struggle for water persists, driving debates in both the Rights Conference further contributes to research and development academy and courtroom.

Indigenous and non-indigenous on water and sanitation in northern academics, community members, rural communities. The conference and activists who participated in is part of a larger social science projthe water conference revisited the ect on the right to clean water, codebate over universal human rights ordinated by the U of M’s Centre to water. Questions were raised for Human Rights Research.

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

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Researchers examine the question of genocide in Canada U of M hosts annual international conference on genocide and indigenous studies DANA HATHERLY, STAFF

How will it be determined destruction of surrounding environwhether indigenous people were the ment, and whether different forms of victims of genocide in Canada? more or less overt group control, other These types of questions were than physical violence, constitute as raised in front of the largest group of genocide. indigenous scholars from around the The U of M provided a historically world gathered at the International symbolic geographical location for Association of Genocide Scholars hosting a symposium on genocide conference from July 16-19 at the studies and indigenous people, as the University of Manitoba. campus was constructed and exists on Academics, community mem- what some scholars at the conference bers, and survivors of genocide would consider occupied land. from Rwanda, Kurdistan, Australia, In a welcoming letter to conferArgentina and other countries in ence attendees and officials, U of M Latin America and North America president David Barnard acknowlmet to learn, present on, and partici- edged that the university campus pate in debates about genocide and was established at the epicentre of indigenous studies.

Anishinaabe, Metis, Cree, Dakota, The conference looked at whether and Oji-Cree Nations in Treaty One mass killings; prohibiting political, Territory. religious, economic, and cultural practices; and failing to allow groups Genocide involves to maintain livelihoods and fulfill basic survival needs, are all forms of not only mass genocide.

One of the overarching themes killing, but also of the conference related to the challenges of defining genocide in a con- the destruction temporary context and whether that of groups and definition then applies to Canada’s group living historical treatment of its Aboriginal peoples.

Is the Canadian case relevant?

Specifically, the university was founded on traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and the homeland of the Metis Nation. Arguments raised during this conference suggested cases of land expropriation and other violations against First Nations should be genocidal in nature.

One of the lead organizers and U of M sociology professor Andrew Woolford hoped that the conference demonstrated to other genocide scholars that the Canadian case deserves greater attention.

Canada presently only recognizes physical forms of genocide, which is Aboriginals even narrower than the international underrepresented at U of M guidelines in the UN convention To this day, the visible, longstandand case law. Scholars at the con- ing impacts of genocide can be witference explored if these measures nessed on our campus, some have for framing the issue match the cir- claimed. cumstances in Canada, and whether “The university is committed genocide needs to be recognized and to building a society where First addressed as part of our development Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples, and practices. cultures, and traditions are reflected Based on the work of Raphael and respected in schools, workplaces, Lemkin, scholarly work has been and all public institutions,” Barnard done elsewhere to show that geno- said. cide involves not only mass killing, However, population demographbut also the destruction of groups ics show that First Nations are underand group living. represented at the U of M. According to Woolford, what Only 210 employees and 32 faculty happened in Canada in terms of members out of 8,700 faculty and staff assimilative policies “provided a vivid members identified as Aboriginal, illustration of how the attempted with representation in nine faculdestruction of groups can take place ties. Additionally, only 7 .2 per cent in a multitude of ways. In Canada of the student population claimed we have [ . . . ] instances of forced Aboriginal identity. starvation, forced assimilation, wideAccording to the provincial govspread physical and sexual abuses ernment, First Nations represent that attempted to sever the bonds 13.6 per cent of the entire Manitoba between group members, between population, and just two-thirds of family members, between people and that population received an educatheir culture, and between people and tion at or above the high school level. their territories.”

Low proportional representation The conference provided insight in post-secondary institutions such as on the impacts of assimilative poli- the U of M may reflect generational cies on communities in relation to impacts on a wider population that their connection to territory and the survived patterns of genocide.

Woolford spoke to supposed patterns of genocide, including those expressed by government policies and practices associated with the residential school system, and those who continue to live with and suffer from the negative repercussions of the colonially imposed system.

These patterns are reflective of the historical oppression experienced by Canada’s First Nations, and also happen to meet some of the standard measures collectively proposed by various scholars to morally and legally redefine genocide in Canada.

Redefining genocide

Popular notions of genocide are rooted in common perceptions about it that involve only mass killings and overt forms of physical violence against particular groups of people.

Some researchers at the conference agreed that fully engaging in truth and reconciliation involves publicly clarifying amendments to definitions of the term as part of our shared understanding and for the purpose of adapting national charters, international conventions, and legal codes.

Other scholars cautioned against

this by arguing that the term reconciliation is a new assimilative notion, rather than something developed by those affected.

Without undermining variable experiences of genocide, genocidal patterns of group control, and the extent of impact in each global situation, some conference attendees hoped that redefining the term would allow supposed cases of genocide in this country to be re-examined. This could lead to improved measures for determining human rights violations and a new understanding of human rights in Canada.

Survivors of genocide delved into their own stories and experiences of the Rwandan and Kurdish genocides.

Conference-members attended a trip to Turtle Lodge of the Sagkeeng First Nation where victims of assimilative policies now reside. The attendees were welcomed with gift giving, stories, and speeches about the history of the Sagkeeng First Nation and their experiences with genocide and continued survival.

Other circumstances of human group domination and events of physical and psycho-social control were also examined over the course

of the conference.

Although many examples explored at the conference showed signs of genocidal patterns, some of the cases, like the one in Sagkeeng, have yet to be recognized as genocide.

The debates also stimulated critical discussion of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR), opening Sept. 20. The museum will showcase issues of human rights violations and triumphs. It will also present exhibits on genocide.

Conference attendees agreed that the CMHR, the first institution of its kind in the world, is the appropriate platform for the genocide debate in Canada to spark international attention.

The CMHR has not declared the existence of genocide in Canada.

The word ‘genocide’ will come up throughout this exhibit, but will not be directly applied to the Canadian context.

Woolford stated that although settler-colonial genocide would not be explicitly exhibited at the museum, the question would be raised. The museum seeks to provide context to museum observers, and then ask observers to determine whether or not genocide has occurred for themselves.

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Comment Comment Editor: Katerina Tefft Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

It gets bitter

We should talk about mental illness all the time, not just when someone famous dies KARA PASSEY

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hen I got home from work on Monday, Aug. 11, I had experienced a particularly emotionally exhausting day. Then, when I signed into Facebook, I read the news about Robin Williams’ passing. It was soon after the news had broken, because barely any news sources mentioned his struggle with addiction and mental un-wellness, and my newsfeed was flooded with posts of, “I can’t believe it!” and, “Now my favourite movies are so sad!”

Grief and mourning are difficult things to maneuver, and I am certainly not one to tell people to be more up-to-date on the lives of celebrities – but these reactions didn’t sit well with me. It was a shining example of the lens through which mental health is viewed; no one acknowledges its severity until it is too late.

And now, two weeks later, many of us are moving on with our lives and forgetting how shocked we were that someone so beloved and successful took their own life. Many of us won’t even think about mental illness again until another suicide makes the headlines, not realizing that Canada averages 3,777 suicides a year. But those of us who deal with mental illness will still remain here, even when the headlines are gone.

When I was small, my grandfather, who was experiencing the early signs of Alzheimer’s, took his own life. To me he had only ever been a smiling, loving man full of quips and lively people say, “But you’re so outspoken!

Mental illness isn’t selective; you stories. Yet for some reason, when my I wish I had your confidence!” And can struggle with it even if you have mother told me what had happened, I can’t help but notice that maybe a wonderful support system, even I was able to accept it. It made sense, I have something in common with if you’re a successful actor, even and I never thought him selfish or Williams in that I have managed to when you appear to be strong and cowardly for it. be functional and successful enough happy on the outside – and yes, even Maybe it’s because my mother in my life that it’s hard to convince once you’ve addressed an issue with explained it in terms of, “He got people of my struggling. addiction. very sick, and now he’s died,” as if If you’ve never experienced relapse Recovery isn’t a point on a map death is death, whether by cancer or while dealing with mental illness and with a straight road leading to it; depression – or maybe it’s because I addiction, let me tell you that it’s a it’s an ill-planned road trip with too grew up to continually struggle with terrifying thought that people will many stops and not enough days to a state of mental un-wellness. My keep on swimming by, totally una- visit them all. But each stop does understanding is that death can be ware that you are have importhe ultimate result of mental illness, drowning. tant lessons Mental illness just as it is of physical illness.

When I’m talkand memories I currently spend my days teaching ing about mental to collect, and isn’t selective; music to a group of kids in a setting health to youth, if we embark you can struggle that encourages discussions of mood I never use the upon this jourdisorders, addiction, abuse, and the words, “It gets ney, we will with it even if pursuit of recovery from mental well- better.” The phrase learn to cope, ness. While I spend so much time makes a mockery deal, and realyou’re a successful with these kids making music, joking of mental illness. ize our warnactor, even when around, and watching goofy videos It implies that ing signs along on YouTube, I’ve had the opportunity once you grow up the way. Each you appear to to get to know their struggles and get and get a good job trip is differbe strong and my heart wrenched as I realize that and find a partner ent for every these kids are dealing with the same who loves you, person, as are are smiling on things I am. everything will the landmarks the outside I can’t help but reflect on the times be okay! It doesn’t and lessons. that I’ve reached out to people only provide any of the What could to have them tell me that I have my support needed to proper supshit together and not to worry, or to actually help people make it through ports for those hoping to achieve have them say that they’re there for school, get any job—never mind a mental wellness look like? me but be too busy to answer my call good one—and build healthy relain a crucial moment, or to have them tionships with others.

•An end to stigmatization, includtell me that I just need some vitamins It also doesn’t prepare you for the ing and not limited to doctors, peers, and exercise, or that “everyone gets disturbing realization that the chemi- and family giving mental illness the sad sometimes.” cal imbalance in your brain doesn’t same weight and respect as physical There are moments when I’m disappear when something good hap- illness. shaking and hyperventilating and pens in your life.

•The incorporation of mental

GRAPHIC BY HEATHER KAT COLE

health into the public school curricu- tion does not cause mental illness but lum. When facilitating group therapy is more commonly the response to it. for youth, I discovered that, not only When someone is struggling with is it a good way to let kids get stuff addiction and mental illness simultaoff their chest, it’s a great exercise in neously, it is called a co-occurring disactive listening, and learning to sup- order, and treatment needs to address port and care for our peers. both issues in tandem – something at •Mental health awareness in the which currently available resources workplace. We should never feel often fail. afraid of losing our jobs because of •Patience. depression and should never feel ashamed of taking a mental health If you are experiencing a mental health day. emergency, Winnipeg is now home •An intersectional approach to to the first centre in Canada devoted health care that includes access to entirely to addressing mental health stable housing, nutritional food, and crises. The Crisis Response Centre is peer support. located at 817 Bannatyne Ave. and is •The acknowledgment that addic- open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Comment

Comment Editor: Katerina Tefft Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Police militarization on the rise Since 9/11, America has seen a marked increase in direct military response by authorities every time a new conflict springs up ANDREW VINEBERG

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war is raging in a strange and backward part of the world. An occupying army is using advanced military technology and weaponry against a terrified population, drawing the eyes of human rights observers and critics across the globe.

I’m speaking, of course, about the American Midwest.

Violence in the Midwest exploded again recently in the settlement of Ferguson, Missouri, a region with a history of apartheid and sectarian division. The chaos has drawn the world’s attention once again to the tragic and seemingly intractable conflict in this historically troubled region.

Tensions flared after the shooting of an unarmed 18-year-old African American man by a white police officer on Aug. 9. The victim, Michael Brown, was stopped by Officer Darren Wilson for jaywalking.

Such check stops are a routine part of any war zone, but high stakes nonetheless. Although Wilson was unaware of this at the time, a cigarillo theft at a convenience store earlier that evening had no doubt produced a general atmosphere of tension and fear in the town, which made violence inevitable.

Following the revelation of the killing, as well as further revelations that Brown was shot “more than just a couple” of times (to use the police chief ’s words), Ferguson saw the surge of protest and unrest that typically follows the uncovering of such civilian casualties of war. The town’s police enacted a swift military response, deploying their officers as soldiers in green camouflage, wearing body armour and gas masks, and carrying assault rifles and shields.

Ferguson soon had all the hallmarks of a classic U.S. military war zone: armoured cars, snipers, tear gas, auditory weapons, and other commonplace tools of control during a military occupation, like a curfew, a media blackout, and a no-fly zone.

Police officers have been pointing their weapons indiscriminately at unarmed civilians and challenging bystanders: “Bring it, you fucking animals, bring it.” Much like in Iraq, journalists in Ferguson must now avoid being shot or taken prisoner.

As usual, there has been no formal declaration of war. The government states as always that this is not a war but “police action.”

And as is typical of American conflicts, international criticism and scrutiny have followed.

Amnesty International has sent in human rights personnel to monitor the crisis. The police force’s actions have provoked criticism from foreign governments and the United Nations.

Observers in Palestine have broadcast their solidarity, offering advice on treating tear gas injuries.

Last week, the governor of Missouri declared a state of emergency and placed the area under the

authority of the National Guard.

Securing dominance in the strategically important and energy-rich region of the Midwest has always been a priority for the U.S., but since 9/11 America has seen a marked increase in direct military response by authorities every time a new conflict springs up.

Following America’s declaration of war on both terror and drugs, a huge inf lux of surplus military weaponry has fallen into the hands of American law enforcement.

These armaments are acquired for the necessity of stopping terrorism – a responsibility which has always been a top priority for local American police departments.

There are questions about whether these weapons and tactics are being used strictly for the purpose of fighting terrorism. In war, definitions are often subjective. Might these alleged “terrorists” being fought by police also be called “freedom fighters,” “petty criminals,” “minor offenders,” or “innocent civilians?”

This conflict has many names and many fronts, from the War on Drugs to the War on Terror. Ultimately, every front is part of the broader war that is America’s law enforcement—a war waged between the paramilitary forces of the cities and towns of the United States, and the residents of those cities and towns—or at least certain classes of residents, like those in African American communities which stubbornly insist on not reflecting the ethnic makeup of their local police department. For impacted civilians, life is an enduring siege.

highest incarceration rate: 2.2 million people.

As with many of America’s wars, Canada has been eager to join the coalition.

Canada’s war against Canadians is nothing new; in particular, the centuries-old fight against First Nations peoples has shifted from royal armies to the police, from the Great Plains to the city streets and prisons.

Since 9/11, America The North-West Mounted Police, founded as a paramilitary to quell has seen a marked native resistance, was succeeded by increase in direct the RCMP, who proudly continue those practices. Provincial and city military response police carry on the Indian wars, by authorities whether it’s tactical strikes against unarmed native men, or a war of every time a new attrition in the form of procedural conflict springs up indifference over Aboriginal deaths.

In British Columbia, one of the war’s bloodiest fronts, police have Statistics about civilian casualties killed 267 people in the last 15 years, are uncertain; there is no tally of how and ceasefire prospects are grim. many Americans are killed by police Several recent high-profile skireach year. A conservative estimate by mishes have brought Canada’s police the FBI of certain types of “justifiable war back into the public eye, from police homicides” records an average shooting a schizophrenic cartoonist of about 400 a year. crawling on the street to their decisive More complete estimates report nine-bullet victory over a teenage boy around 5,000 Americans killed in with a knife on an empty streetcar. this war since 9/11. Law enforcement The shooting of an unarmed man at a claims a black man’s life in America baseball game in the Norway House every 28 hours. Local militaries have reserve in northern Manitoba served increased their number of SWAT as a stark reminder that war can rear team raids 1,500 per cent over the last its head anywhere.

20 years; most are for drug-related Like America, Canada has begun search warrants which are dispropor- the transition of its “police action” tionately carried out against people of into a war of aggression, and their colour, and have increasingly resulted law enforcement agencies into elite in non-suspect casualties. militaries.

The war has produced the world’s During the 2012 G20 protests,

GRAPHIC BY JUSTIN LADIA

Toronto police encircled and con- system. tained their civilian opponents But is military action the proper with expert military maneuvering. response to these issues, or simply Armoured assault vehicles have been escalating the violence and frustraacquired by Ottawa, York, Quebec tion in these beleaguered lands?

City, Montreal, and even New Furthermore, is there perhaps Glasgow, Nova Scotia, population some larger historical context 9,500. that links the frustrations of poor This year, Montreal police pur- Americans back to actions of the U.S. chased not just tanks but also long- government? Could the economy range sound cannons in the wake of of the U.S., in some, complicated, their clashes with hordes of danger- hard-to-fathom way, have negatively ous young people in 2012. And, of impacted the financial stability of course, the RCMP has been proudly people all the way in Missouri? returning to their military-colonial Has the U.S. ever done anything roots, not just accumulating multiple to lose their trust, to draw their ranarmoured vehicles, but sending in cour? What could possibly motivate heavily-armed squads of Mountie them to brazenly take to the streets soldiers to ambush peaceful anti- and demand that officers stop fracking protests in New Brunswick, shooting unarmed members of their brandishing Tasers and firing rubber community? bullets.

When citizens take valuable There is no question: Canada and water and milk from an innocent the U.S. are embroiled in yet another McDonald’s to treat their tear-gassed long, ill-defined, asymmetrical war of eyes, is it simple immorality? Or are occupation in a perilous region full the police somehow contributing to of deep ethnocultural tensions and their actions? These questions are intractable centuries-old conflicts. perhaps best left to the sociologists.

A war against the embattled and The most pressing question of all anguished peoples of North America. is, are we simply to resign ourselves The question is: Might their mili- to the inevitability of this war? Shall tary involvement be doing anything we not ask ourselves if America to prolong the conflict, as opposed to and Canada might withdraw their ending it? Certainly crime and unrest forces, scale back their militarism in this part of the world are of grave and seek peaceful negotiation with concern. Equally concerning is the their bruised and scarred civilian creeping rise of volatile radicalism, populations? as indicated by these latest outbreaks Maybe this is the moment we of protest. These currents of dissent finally shake off the chains of ineviand insurrection stand opposed to tability and say we will not accept any cherished American and Canadian more of this war. values, like eternal trust in the moral legitimacy of our law enforcement

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Science & technology Science & Technology Editor: Bailey Rankine Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Engineering institutional bonds The proceedings of the 8th annual International Prairie Student Conference in environmental engineering BAILEY RANKINE, STAFF

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ater is arguably the world’s most valuable resource. With threats of drought caused by climate change and the influx of industrial pollution, it is paramount that innovative technologies in water treatment and waste management are supported.

On Aug. 6, civil and environmental engineering students from universities throughout the Red River basin descended on Fargo for the eighth annual International Prairie Student Conference (IPSC) hosted by the North Dakota State University student chapter of American Water Works Association/Water Environment Federation (NDSU AWWA/WEF).

The AWWA focuses primarily on drinking water, whereas WEF’s attentions are aimed at wastewater; both organizations provided sponsorship for the conference. The civil and environmental engineering and the environmental and conservation

sciences departments at Innovation and NDSU also contributed collaborative research funds.

Devlin presented the proposal for The conference is his MSc. project, which he will be organized by students embarking on this fall in the departand designed to promote ment of civil engineering at the U networking opportunities of M. His investigation will study within the industry. “enhanced biochemical processes for The guest list was short wastewater treatment.” but impressive; academHe is specifically interested in ics in attendance included the biochemical process of aerobic those from the University granulation. Granules are made up of Manitoba, University of of a suite of microorganisms that Winnipeg, University of specialize in the removal of organics, North Dakota, and South nitrogen, and phosphorus collectively Dakota State University. from the water.

Industr y professionTraditionally, biological treatals were invited from ments of wastewater have been Advanced Engineering and accomplished using a combination Environmental Services, of activated sludge systems, biofilInc.; Moore Engineering, ters, oxidation ditches, and rotating Inc.; and Apex Engineering Group, biological contactors. These systems Inc. generally require large areas and they Last year the conference was remove very little organics, nitrogen, hosted by the U of M which, like or phosphorus – three compounds NDSU, has a student chapter of that can accelerate the eutrophication WEF (University of Manitoba Water of surface waters.

Environment Federation) and is curOn the other hand, aerobic rently working to gain AWWA affili- granular sludge processes promise ation. University of Manitoba Water to reduce the energy requirements Environment Federation president of water treatment by at least 30 per Nick Svenda will be stepping down cent and space requirements by as within the next few weeks at which much as 80 per cent. Implementing point Tanner Devlin, the current granular sludge systems in place of vice-president, will assume the role conventional technologies would of president. therefore benefit both the economy Devlin was the first undergradu- and environment. ate to be formally involved with the In general, bacteria will secrete student chapter and since then has proteins and polysaccharides when been trying to increase undergradu- external stressors are applied, such ate membership. as aeration or periodic episodes of “Right now we stand at a total of starvation. These compounds act as 27 members combined, where his- cement and transform the flocculent torically it’s been 10 to 15 graduate bacteria utilized in conventional biostudents,” he boasted. logical treatment systems into denser granules.

The problem is that the exact mechanism of granulation is still debatable and more studies must be undertaken to determine how flocculent bacteria are transformed into their granular counterparts.

The IPSC is an outlet for sharing ideas and encouraging research collaborations between universities.

A prime example of this was the presentation of U of M/U of W duo Tyler Epp and Ken Breziniski. They discussed “rapid solid phase extraction as an attractive alternative to resin fraction methods. Solid phase extraction will reduce resin condition and sample preparation times.”

Currently, resin fractionation is the most commonly used technique to separate and classify natural organic matter based on its solubility in water; however, this technique is time-consuming, tedious, and not applicable to monitoring aquatic humic substances at water treatment plants.

Aquatic humic substances are caused by the decay of plant material and are highly chemically reactive.

The aquatic humic substances fraction of natural organic matter is believed to contain the organic compounds required to form trihalomethanes.

Trihalomethanes are suspected to cause cancer in humans and are created when the organic compounds from the humic substances come in contact with chlorine added to disinfect our drinking water.

Epp and Breziniski’s method proposes the use of solid phase extraction, which is a sample preparation process that separates compounds in a liquid from other compounds in the mixture according to their physical and chemical properties.

Solid phase extraction bodes to be a much more efficient method of monitoring aquatic humic substances in water.

Student chapter and local involvement

This year’s chief organizer, Kevin Young, first started to get involved with the NDSU AWWA/WEF student chapter during his freshman year in 2008 and has held various officer positions in his time at NDSU. Young explained how he found himself heading the event: “The group’s student advisor asked me to take the lead for planning the International Prairie Student Conference this year. I thought it might be in my best interest to say ‘yes’ since I would like to graduate soon.”

Each year the group sends a team to the Student Design Competition at the Water Environment Federation’s Technical Exhibition and Conference.

They also make an effort to go on a few group field trips related to water engineering.

Conference attendees got a taste of these field trips with the opportunity to participate in the RiverKeepers Service Project - Storm Drain Marking Program, and take tours of Fargo’s wastewater treatment plant and effluent reuse facility.

Young expressed that “in the future, [he’s] hoping the group continues to work on service projects in Fargo with groups like RiverKeepers.”

The IPSC is just one of many student conferences offered annually.

Regardless of faculty or academic focus, these student-run events are essential for providing an informal setting for students to practice presenting and discussing their research.

The water people The University of Manitoba’s student chapter of the Water Environment Federation TANNER DEVLIN

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ave you ever sat down and thought about how much water you use in a day? If you live a conventional life, you probably shower, go to the washroom a couple of times, and pick up a double-double or two. This all adds up, resulting in the consumption of over 150 litres of water per day per person on average in North America.

Although water is essential to our well-being, how many of us can say that we know about the processes that bring water to our taps or deal with the waste that flows down our drains? The water does not just appear and disappear; those 200 litres have to come from and

return to somewhere. water industry, setting up network- the framework to allow students a series of guest lectures given by proThis is where environmental ing events and a platform for public to explore the water industry and fessionals in the field, and various engineers and scientists, the folks education. develop their professional skills. other social and networking functhat design treatment systems to The parent organization of The chapter’s first venture was the tions. The main goal of the chapter is meet our first-world demands and UMWEF was instituted in 1928 2006-2007 joint seminar between the bringing interested students together also ensure the protection of our and is a non-profit organization that University of Manitoba and North to promote their professional develenvironment, come in. They are globally represents water quality pro- Dakota State University, which opment while educating members of the individuals who make sure you fessionals. Since the organization’s later developed into the annual the public. start the day fresh and maintain a inception, members have proudly ful- International Student Prairie Although UMWEF specialsufficient level of caffeine, directly filled their commitments to public Conference on Environmental Issues. izes in the fields of environmental contributing to your everyday life. health within their local communi- The conference now also involves engineering and science, there is a Now you are aware of the cru- ties and aim to provide clean water South Dakota State University, the place for anyone who wants to learn saders that work behind the taps worldwide.

University of North Dakota, and the more about or be involved with water. and drains, but our work does not These ideals were brought to University of Winnipeg, and covers Anyone interested by UMWEF can end there. At the University of the University of Manitoba in the the area known as the Red River email me at umdevli5@myumanitoba.

Manitoba, the Water Environment 2006-2007 calendar year by a group Basin. ca or drop by the civil engineering Federation’s student chapter of committed students in civil engiLocal events organized by department on the third floor of the (UMWEF) strives to involve neering. Past UMWEF president UMWEF include an annual sum- EITC building at the University of individuals from all sectors of the Stan Lozecznik wanted to set up mer barbeque and sports tournament, Manitoba.

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Science & Technology

Science & Technology Editor: Bailey RankineContact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

The blue-green elephant Eutrophication and its consequences TANNER DEVLIN

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hen using the word “nutrient,” we tend to speak positively.

After all, were nutrients not in those pills forced on us every morning by our mothers since before we could remember?

Nutrients are also needed to grow crops, and are essential components of the fertilizers that farmers spread on their land. It seems that nutrients are a very important component of society, and are required to keep us healthy and well-fed.

Unfortunately the positive way in which we talk about nutrients stops with one word: eutrophication.

So why does eutrophication have such negative connotations? Formally defined, eutrophication is the “process by which a body of water becomes enriched in dissolved nutrients.” Its roots come from two Greek words: “eu” meaning “well” and “trope,” which means “nourishment.”

“Well-nourished” does not exactly sound threatening, so we must look beyond the definition to understand the problem. We have to ask what happens when we fertilize bodies of water.

With excess nutrients such as which become concentrated in the the nutrients trapped in their cells death is the potential to kill off fish nitrogen and phosphorus in the water surrounding large algal blooms. can be released into the water column species. When algae die their cells water, the growth of algae and plants Although again through var- begin to decay and use up oxygen. explodes just like the growth of crops many people have ious biochemical If a large enough bloom of algae does on a farmer’s field. This leads to become ill from processes. begins to die, oxygen in the water can Eutrophication unsightly, sometimes foul-smelling exposure to these This cyclic pat- drop below the levels required for fish requires blooms of algae. toxins, human tern of increased to live. This is largely thought of as Although quick to appear, algal death from algalnutrients, algal the point of no return, where eutroeveryone to be blooms are not concerning, beyond contaminated grow th a n d phication can no longer be suppressed proactive where their effect on the recreational value drinking water is death, sedimen- or managed. of water bodies. There are much more unlikely to occur. tation, and nutriSo how did we end up over-nourhistorically we environmentally dangerous conse- Wi ld l ife and ent recycle from ishing our bodies of water? Is it the quences of eutrophication, like the pets are at risk the sediments agricultural industry being overhave been blind, ones that put Lake Winnipeg in the when they drink makes solving zealous with the amount of fertilizer and I urge you to running for the most threatened lake untreated water eutrophication they apply? Or is urban sprawl and of the year in 2013. near a bloom of ver y diff icult increased nutrient loading from citget involved in Under certain conditions algal blue-green algae. once the pro- ies’ wastewater discharges to blame? the discussion blooms can be dominated by cyanoFurthermore, cess has become The correct answer is: Yes. bacteria, commonly known as blue- when algae and established.

Without the agricultural industry our green algae. These microorganisms plants die, they Another conse- cities could not support the popuproduce toxins damaging to the liver, sink. Once at the bottom of the lake quence of increased algal growth and lations they do, and without cities

GRAPHIC BY BRAM KEAST

the agricultural industry could not support the work they do. No one group of people can be held responsible when everything is interrelated.

The World Resources Institute is doing a great job of raising global awareness on eutrophication and has valuable resources online. Locally, the government of Manitoba has been working on developing the Save Lake Winnipeg Act, which can also be accessed online.

The best chance of a solution comes from education and an open dialogue in global and local communities. Eutrophication requires everyone to be proactive where historically we have been blind, and I urge you to get involved in the discussion.

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

Pages from the past

A look back at the Manitoban's 100 years in publishing

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he Manitoban will celebrate its 100th birthday this coming Nov. 5. As a way of celebrating and honouring this paper's long and successful run, we will be regularly reprinting articles published at various points over the course of the last century.

In this issue, with its heavy influence on water—from issues of human rights to toxic algal blooms and nutrient cycling in fresh water

basins—we're featuring an editorial on the topic of nutrient loading and cycling in Lake Winnipeg.

The piece was penned by former Editor-in-Chief of the Manitoban, Joel Trenaman, now serving as the director of communications and publishing for the International Inst it ute for Susta inable Development.

The IISD made headlines last fall and this year when it was announced

the organization would be teaming up with the Ontario government to manage the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA). The ELA is a series of 58 lakes in Northwestern Ontario where scientists have been conducting whole-ecosystem-based experiments for over 45 years.

The following article was published Nov. 17, 2004.

GRAPHIC BY PAUL KIM

Arts & Culture Arts & Culture Editor: Katy MacKinnon Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

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LAUREN SIDDALL

PHOTOS BY LAUREN SIDDALL

S

ummer is coming to an end, and plished by Keegan in this final work adapted into a movie version starring be forwarded to him.

Dave through the world of women lists of must-read books are long. of hers. a fantastic ensemble cast including As she reads the heart-wrenching and alcohol, which he often describes Here are some reads worthy of makThis is Where I Leave You (2009) Jason Bateman, Tina Fey, and Jane letters written by everyone from war as being surreal or dream-like. ing the cut .

by Jonathan Tropper Fonda. Bonus: Tropper wrote the veterans like Salinger to teenagers Eggers switches back and forth The Opposite of Loneliness (2014) who feel a personal connection with between a very cynical prose and Tropper delivers a smart, insight- screenplay for the movie.

by Marina Keegan ful narrative dripping with NickMy Salinger Year (2014) by Joanna Holden Caulfield and his dislike for a very excited, almost overflowing This is my current answer to the Hornby-like humor as the newly Rakoff the “phonies” of the world, Rakoff prose within the narrative, driving it commonly asked question, “What’s divorced Judd Foxman attempts to A memoir about literary New York finds she begins straying from the forcefully forward at a brilliant pace, your favourite book?” (For context: navigate through his family turmoil. in the late 90s, My Salinger Year fol- form letter and explores her own while transcending formal boundaI’m an English major and work in a After the death of his father, lows the 23-year-old Rakoff after she voice by acting as Salinger’s. ries in the most comical way possible. bookstore). This book is a collection Foxman and his dysfunctional fam- drops out of graduate school to purSpeckled with glimpses of one of Brief Interviews with Hideous of works from the magna cum laude ily adhere to the sue writing poetry. the most iconic American literary Men (2000) by David Foster Wallace Yale graduate, Marina Keegan, who family patriarch’s Rakoff works as figures of the 20th century, Rakoff Admittedly, I was drawn first to tragically died in a car crash just five final wish: to sit an assistant for paints a portrait of an ambitious this novel because it’s authored by Speckled with days after her graduation. the literary agent young woman looking to break into David Foster Wallace; I had always Shiva (a Jewish glimpses of one A combination of fiction and non- tradition in which responsible for J.D. the literary world while trying to fig- wanted to read Wallace without takfiction pieces, Keegan manages to the family mourns Salinger. ure out exactly who she is and what ing on the mammoth that is Infinite of the most perfectly capture the essence of youth together under At night she she wants to accomplish. My Salinger Jest. iconic American in each one. the same roof for lives in her shoddy Year conveys not only the coming-ofWithin the novel, Wallace briefly While maintaining her meticu- seven days and apartment and in age experience as one might expect, chronicles snippets of the lives of varliterary figures of lously designed characters, driving seven nights). f lat-out poverty but also the changes within our cul- ious men with incredible precision pace, and thoughtful prose, she preThis brings the on the edge of the ture during the late 20th century. and detail, painting a portrait of each the 20th century, serves her youthful energy. She writes four Foxman sib“artistic lifestyle” A Heartbreaking Work of individual by describing everything Rakoff paints a about surprise pregnancies, gluten lings—including with her social- Staggering Genius (2000) by Dave from an overheard conversation, to allergies, and getting stuck in a career Judd; his bitter ist boy friend, Eggers recording an interview conducted portrait of an you don’t enjoy, to name a few, all sister, Wendy; his Don. Don is a Brought to you by the brilliant with the man, to describing the way ambitious young the while demonstrating her literary playboy younger struggling writer, mind who wrote The Circle, You a celebrated American poet lounges mastery. brother, Phillip; looking for “the Shall Know Our Velocity, and A in his chaise by his pool. woman looking Her fiction stories are incredibly and his no-nonright representa- Hologram for the King comes Each story is filled with such original and authentic; they read sense older brother, to break into the tion” for his debut Dave Eggers’ claim to fame: A detail that it feels as though, if only in as though you are gossiping with a Paul—under the novel – which is Heartbreaking Work of Staggering that moment, you know the protagoliterary world friend over coffee about the latest and same roof for the proving harder Genius. nist intimately, illustrating the sheer greatest happenings of their life. She first time in years than he originally This critically acclaimed memoir genius and untouchable creativity of fills the short stories with believable – and yes, it is as anticipated. opens with the Eggers family dealing Wallace. He pulls out a new trick characters, all of whom feel like they hilarious as it sounds .

During the day, Rakoff works at with the mother’s stomach cancer and with each successive story, solidifying could have been cut from your own Old grudges resurface, long-kept an office run by Dictaphones, type- the father’s lung cancer. his place as a startlingly brilliant rebel life and pasted into Keegan’s story. secrets are exposed, and Judd’s life writers, and old-time literary agents Following the deaths of his par- to literary conventions.

Her non-fiction essays convey an takes another unexpected turn: his who take too many cigarette breaks. ents, Dave—with the help of his older Not to mention this book is hilariengaging, lyrical voice that immedi- ex-wife is pregnant, and it is either his Within the wood-panelled, book- sister, Beth—is forced to act as both ous. Wallace fills each story with such ately draws you in. child or his “radio-shock-jock” boss’. saturated, cigarette-smoke-hazed a brother and a parent to their much- audacious dark humour that I often The title essay, “The Opposite of In his poignantly hilarious novel, office, she types letters to clients on younger sibling, Toph. The siblings found myself laughing audibly, and Loneliness,” received more than 1.4 Tropper explores all the corners of behalf of her boss. On the off chance steer through the delicate balance of subsequently explaining my sudden million hits in 2012 upon being pub- the male psyche—from rage, to lust, that she finishes these letters, she is hands-off parenting and being too laughter while trying to pull myself lished in the Yale Daily News. to sweetness—with alarming preci- to type a copious amount of form let- clingy, wanting Toph to be as well- together.

This unforgettable assemblage of sion, while still maintaining colourful ters to mail to those writing to J.D. adjusted as possible. work expresses the universal battle characters and witty dialogue.

Salinger, stating that the letters canAs what often accompanies comof trying to harness our potential to Tropper will soon tackle the big not be passed on to Salinger because ing-of-age stories, A Hearbreaking make a lasting impact – a feat accom- screen this fall when his novel is he has requested for his mail not to Work of Staggering Genius also takes

VOL. 101 NO. 32 August 27, 2014

Arts & Culture

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Cover to cover with Carlyn Juliet Was a Surprise, by Bill Gaston CARLYN SCHELLENBERG, STAFF

Was a Surprise is acclaimed JCanadian writer Bill Gaston’s latuliet

est short story collection since 2006’s Gargoyles and his latest book since The World was released two years ago .

Gaston—who was born in Flin Flon and has lived in a number of Canadian cities, including Winnipeg —has accrued various literary accolades, including a Governor General’s Award nomination for the short story collection Gargoyles and a Giller Prize nomination for 2002’s Mount Appetite.

Gaston also won the ReLit Award as well as receiving a plethora of other award nominations for his numerous works.

Juliet Was a Surprise is home to an array of eccentric plots and characters; “strange” is one word that can aptly describe most of the collection’s 10 stories.

In “Black Roses Bloom,” a bank executive’s orgasms put her to sleep, which is slowly causing a stroke. In “Tumpadabump,” a woman tries to figure out whether her husband killed himself as a joke or accidentally died as the tragic result of a joke.

“Any Forest Seen From Orbit” is the weirdest of the bunch; an arborist falls in love with a woman while working on her lawn. The narrative takes on a Lolita-esque tone, with the narrator objectifying Juliet and detailing his obsessive and sordid thoughts; their sexual encounter leads to disaster.

This passage highlights the beginning of their strange encounter: “There in her bedroom, husband Troy

at some bar, Juliet sat on the edge of her bed and I knelt, in only my boxer shorts, brushing her long, beautiful hair. She’d lift her arm and I’d draw the brush, once, twice, through her pit, the tines softly tugging through .”

A driving force in “Any Forest Seen From Orbit,” as well as in many other stories in Juliet Was a Surprise, is heterosexual male desire. In stories with male narrators, women are objectified and viewed as consciously seductive and ultimately become tragic figures .

In this story, the narrator asserts his views of Juliet, even though he barely knows her, and claims her as PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER his prize: “my Juliet was pure .”

In “House Clowns,” a former guests are out to con him, and wants professor believes that the woman to beat them to their reveal.

The narrator in “Cake’s Chicken” he unexpectedly ends up sharing a vacation home with is baring her skin believes he has witnessed magic while camping, but doesn’t know if for him.

“Of course she knew he watched his friends have deceived him.

In “Four Corners,” a new couple her. Her communication couldn’t be more direct. Her bare skin, luscious converses with the girlfriend’s father tan. From her bum crack, peaking over dinner, and mind games ensue.

Gaston delivers immaculate above her bikini bottoms, a tattooed language in each of these pieces. In blue hand waved at him .”

This objectification and represen- the first and most promising story, tation of women would appear to be “House Clowns,” the first sentence problematic; however, the majority gives the reader an inkling of the of the narrators who view the female breathtaking prose to come: “He characters this way are obviously woke up to the challenge of a mountain sun blaring through thin white maladjusted.

The characters in these stories curtains .”

Gaston’s most recent collection either appear to trick each other, believe they are being fooled, or want is at times heartwarming , revolting, to dupe the other. and continually shocking. Juliet Was In “House Clowns,” the paranoid a Surprise is certainly worth the trip. vacationer believes, among other vague things, that his unexpected

A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan CARLYN SCHELLENBERG, STAFF

This novel will change your life. ous perspectives throughout different Squad, which includes: Bennie, a Winner of the 2011 Pulitzer locations and time periods, taking record executive; Sasha, Bennie’s Prize and 2010 National Book place from the 60s to the 2020s. thieving assistant; Bosco, a guitarCritics Circle The novel also ist; Lou, an older music producer who Awa rd a nd uses a variety of spends much of his time with young written by formats: for exam- women; and Scotty, Bennie’s former This heartbreaking American ple, one story is told bandmate. writer Jennifer entirely through a This heartbreaking novel focuses novel focuses on Egan , this is slideshow. on how time doesn’t stop for anyone, how time doesn’t the most movMost of the and tracks some of these characing book I’ve novel is centred on ters from their youth to middle age, stop for anyone ever read. music and takes underscoring change; lost youth, A Visit from place in New York friendship, and happiness; and growthe Goon Squad, City. ing up. while a novel, is a collection of A lengthy list of characters is intertwined stories told from variportrayed in A Visit from the Goon

IMAGE BY PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE

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Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture Editor: Katy MacKinnon Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Small town, big dreams Local band with unique sound releases their first album CAITLYN MASKIEW

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hilling harmonies, poetically crafted lyrics, and a style all their own, Blue Rubies are a band originating in small-town Manitoba hoping to make it big.

The band recently released their debut EP and are currently performing wherever they can.

Blue Rubies had their start at the 2013 Winnipeg Folk Festival. Prior to the genesis of Blue Rubies, Ben Mak-Wiebe (bass, vocals) and Cory Sulyma (guitar, drums, vocals) were in a rock band called Hey Rube, while Mady Reimer (auxiliary percussion, vocals) and Sulyma were part of a folk band, Horizon Me. When the lead guitarist of Hey Rube left and caused the parting of the band, the three friends came together and applied for the Young Performer’s program at Folk Fest.

“At that point we were just jamming,” says Sulyma. “One person would say, ‘Oh I have a song,’ and we’d just play it.” Not long after, the band was born.

After last year’s Folk Fest they started picking up speed. This summer they’ve been busy, gaining popularity from word of mouth alone, getting invites to perform at

events ranging from parties, to larger shows with other bands such as The Heroin Hayride, Once Nomadic, and Wooden Horsemen . The band’s most recent performance was at Trout Forest Music Festival in Ontario .

Their success prompted them to create their first ever album, a fivesong EP titled Blue Rubies released on Aug. 14. The album features all original songs, with each band member pitching in on vocals.

Not only did the three write their own lyrics and music, they also recorded and produced their EP Weibe’s basement, with Mak-Weibe editing and mixing the sound. They They have a unique, raw sound wanted the sound to be raw, as if the Mak-Weibe described as “today’s listener felt they were at a live show, folk scene mixed with an old fash- and the band succeeded. ioned sound.”

The homemade quality of the Not only did the three write sound still remains studio profestheir own lyrics and music, they also sional. The CDs are burned and in recycled casing with the band’s name recorded and produced their EP. The album was recorded in Mak- on the front, giving them a home-

PHOTO BY BLUE RUBIES

grown feel and keeping the cost at because of how the song compleonly $5. ments her voice . Sulyma’s favourite When asked their favourite songs, song is newer and wasn’t ready for the members had a hard time picking this album, but the band says they’ll just one. likely be including it on their next Mak-Weibe decided on the album album. opener, “By and By,” describing it as Find Blue Rubies on Facebook , visit an upbeat, exciting song to get the their website (http://bluerubiesmusic. listener into the groove for the rest com/), and buy their EP at http:// of the album. Reimer chose “Rollin’” bluerubies.bandcamp.com/releases

VOL. 101 NO. 32 August 27, 2014

Arts & Culture

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Folk Fest 2014 Photo Gallery

PHOTO BY KATY MACKINNON

Grace & Tony

PHOTO BY KATY MACKINNON

PHOTO BY TRAVIS ROSS

PHOTO BY KATY MACKINNON

Baskery

PHOTO BY TRAVIS ROSS

PHOTO BY KATY MACKINNON

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

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ILLUSTRATION BY MARIANA MUNOZ

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

Road to the Vanier 2014-15 Bison football preview MIKE STILL, STAFF

T

he 2013-14 football season was a year of promise for the University of Manitoba Bisons. A 5-3 finish , their best record since winning the Vanier Cup in 2007 , and a Hardy Cup berth showed that Manitoba is taking strides in the right direction.

With eight of 12 starters on defence, and 10 of 12 starters on offense returning to the fold in 2014, the upcoming edition of Bison football should be an exciting team to watch.

In preparation, the Manitoban has taken the time to preview each individual position heading into main camp, and what fans can expect to see.

Conference’s outstanding offensive player in 2010 with the Winnipeg Rifles .

LaFrance has had previous success in the backfield for Manitoba (467 rushing yards in 2012), and with the job now his for the taking, he should be in for a breakout season. Fourth-year fullback Andrew Barry—a captain last season— will also be instrumental in ensuring that LaFrance has room to run.

Receivers (Slotback)

Manitoba will retain most of its receiving corps this year, with the biggest loss being slot back and capOffence (Quarterback) tain Andrew Smith, who was drafted The quarterback conversation by the Montreal Alouettes . Danny starts and ends with Jordan Yantz.

Turek—a former Canadian Junior A conference all-star in his first Football League all-Canadian in wide out position. well as CFL selection , look for Gill Both Matt Sawyer (nine receiv- to have a monster campaign at the year as a Bison in 2013 , the Regina 2009 with the Okanagan Sun , and product returns for his final season mainstay at slot back for Manitoba ing touchdowns in 2012 with V.I.) defensive tackle position.

Joining him for a second consecuof CIS eligibility. The 23-year-old is in 2012— makes his return in 2014. and Dustin Pederson (574 receiving hoping to build off of an outstand- He missed last year due to personal yards in 2012 with V.I.) enter their tive season will be David Onyemata, ing campaign, where he was first in reasons, but looks to have an immedi- second year with the Bisons , and add a native of Lagos, Nigeria. Onyemata immediate chemistry with their for- recorded 17 tackles and a sack in his the Canada West conference in both ate impact in place of Smith. mer Raider teammate Jordan Yantz. first full year as a starter in 2013 . passing yards, (2,474) as well as touchWith one year in the system, the two Look for him to build off of that downs (25).

With a multitude of junior football standouts appear ready success in 2014.

Yantz has had quite the off-season, participating in both the East West to make the leap forward in the CIS. returning faces, the Defensive Ends Bowl and Winnipeg Blue Bombers upcoming edition Offensive Line Lauren Kroeker, a captain last seatraining camp, and enters 2014 primed and ready for another big year.

Manitoba retains all five of its son , returns for his final year with of Bison football starters on the offensive line , who the Bisons in 2014. He has amassed Running back should be an exciting paved the way for over 1,800 yards a total of 126 tackles over four seasons For the first time in three seasons on the ground last year. Fifth-year with the herd , and should be consistteam to watch , a running back not named Anthony centre Tyler Fabbri will anchor the ent again off the edge.

Coombs will start for Manitoba. big men , along with 2013 conference Ranji Atwall, another captain in The Winnipeg native was taken by all-star Alex McKay, at the tackle 2013, has finished off his CIS eligibilToronto in the first round of the 2014 Nic Demski and Alex Vitt both position . Look for Geoff Gray to step ity , leaving the other end position CFL draft , leaving a relatively large return to the paddock in 2014, and up as well, heading into his sopho- vacant. The battle for the starting void to fill. are expected to build off of their more season. spot should be quite intriguing, with But the position shouldn’t respective numbers in 2013. two former junior football and British see a drop in production in 2014, Look for Demski, a three-time Defence (Interior Lineman) Columbia Football Conference allwith fourth-year veteran Kienan conference all-star , to potentially put Both starters from 2013 will suit stars, Tyler Lee (Kamloops ) and LaFrance stepping in . up record-breaking numbers this year. up yet again, led by Evan Gill . A Evan Foster (Langley) , leading the LaFrance has gone through the He finished second in Canada West conference all-star last year, Gill way. ranks of football in Manitoba – in receiving yards last season (640). was drafted in the first round by the winning a Winnipeg High School Hamilton Tiger-Cats , but opted to Linebackers Football League championship Receivers (Wide out) return to school this year. With proManitoba retains just one startalongside Coombs in 2008 , as well The 2014 season could very well ready ability, as proven by his trip ing linebacker from last season, with as being named the Prairie Football be the Vancouver Island show at the to the East-West Shrine Game , as Bami Adewale returning at the weak

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

side position. He led the team in solo tackles last season with 37, while adding two sacks. That production should continue in 2014.

With Thomas Miles’ selection by the Toronto Argonauts in the CFL draft , the Bisons have a need at the middle linebacker position. Look for DJ Lalama, a local standout at Saint Paul’s High School and special teams phenom last year, to step up.

The strong side linebacker spot will feature an interesting battle between Riley Wiggett (15 solo tackles, one sack) and Jonathan Jones, another standout from Vancouver Island .

Defensive Backs

The secondary was a position of weakness for Manitoba last year; however, with numerous veterans back, that trend shouldn’t continue in 2014.

Brett MacFarlane (25 solo tackles, 1 INT) and Cam Teschuk (24 solo tackles, 2 INT) lead the way at halfback and corner, respectively. Look for Tremaine Apperley (led team with six pass breakups), Jordan Linnen, and Jayden McCoy to factor in as well.

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

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Sports

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

Going the distance Bison track and field thrower Carter Wilson shares experiences at 2014 North American Indigenous Games

Big Horn breakdown Details on the start of school pep rally DAVID GRAD, VOLUNTEER

MIKE STILL, STAFF

C

arter Wilson has travelled a long way to get where he is today.

Originally born in Peguis First Nation, he lived most of his adolescent life in Fisher Branch, Manitoba – roughly two hours away from Winnipeg.

Growing up, he didn’t put very much emphasis on track and field – and didn’t actually become involved in the sport until grade nine at West Kildonan Collegiate, thanks largely in part to his older brother, who excelled in high jump.

“My brother was in track, so it was like, if he’s going to do this, then I’m going to do this,” said Wilson.

“I wasn’t very good at the start; I didn’t even make it to provincials.

Then, my second year, I got third at provincials.”

After a strong progression throughout high school in both javelin and shot-put, Wilson chose to attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2013. He trained with the U of M team leading into the school year. He gained national ranking (15th) in javelin for the first time that July, after a throw of

52.79 metres at the Canada West Challenge in Calgary.

His performance continued to grow from there, as this past May, he leaped up to seventh nationally, after a third place showing at the Canadian Junior Track and Field Championships in Sainte-Therese, Quebec. At that event, he threw a personal best of 53.17 metres.

“Everybody was native, and so no one disliked the culture or anything.

It was so inclusive.”

–Carter Wilson Wilson continued to ride his momentum, blowing the competition away in javelin at the 2014 North American Indigenous Games in Regina, which took place in July. He took home the gold medal for Manitoba in both javelin and shot-put.

The 18-year-old described himself as a speed thrower in shot-put,

and a power thrower in javelin.

“I’m really fast in the circle compared to other, bigger guys at shotput,” said Wilson.

“When it comes to javelin, they’re two completely opposite sides of the spectrum. You’re built more like a sprinter rather than a thrower.”

The games featured indigenous athletes from both Canada and the United States, including Wisconsin and New York, which was a new experience for Wilson. “[The Nor th A merican Indigenous Games] was the first time I had competed nationally against teams in the States. It was a very cool experience,” Wilson said.

While the Indigenous Games were a much smaller venue, with far less crowd support, Wilson appreciated being able to return to his roots and train with other indigenous athletes.

“Just meeting more Native people was a big take-away. One day, we had this big round dance. Some guy just came into the middle of the two residences, and started playing drums and singing,” said Wilson.

“Everybody was native, and so no one disliked the culture or anything.

It was so inclusive.”

PHOTO BY CARTER WILSON

GRAPHIC BY BRENDA STILL

A good year for Bison pride

So here are the details for the Varsity sports teams represent a biggest pep rally the U of M has huge part of any university’s culture. ever held. On Friday, Sept. 12 at Our teams are a point of pride the Bison football home opener and represent us, just like the Jets we will be celebrating our athletes, or the Bombers represent Winnipeg. school, and campus community Our athletes are in the business of right before kickoff. protecting our school’s pride. They spend their weekdays in class, at the Gold rush library studying, and going through Everyone wear gold. Gold is one workouts, practices, and game-tape of our school’s and province’s defining colours. Gold represents wheat reviews.

As students, it is also up to us to and the vast expanses of prairie land. defend our school’s name. We do so We want anyone coming into our by running student groups, putting house to know they are in Manitoba, on great concerts (like Tiesto on and that they are playing against Sept. 14 ), achieving good grades, the province’s best university.

If you don’t have gold, we are and backing up our athletes.

We don’t just cheer for a team, handing out 6,000 free gold fan we cheer for our team. We cheer for shirts . You can get a free shirt our school and we cheer for our fel- when you buy a student ticket on low students. Other students travel the Curry Pedway from Sept. 2 to from across the country to play the 12, or you can redeem your student Bisons. Make no mistake – we are ticket at Gate 3 on game day. defending our campus’ culture at Pyrotechnics every game.

University 1 Student Council This upcoming year the Big Horns and Student Life plan on and Arts Student Body Council infusing our campus culture with will be treating everyone in attensome enthusiasm and an increased dance to a pyrotechnic display. Our sense of pride. We are starting with grand finale, with the Bison cheer the biggest pep rally we’ve ever held. team performing to an explosive show, will blow you away. Not literally. It is quite safe.

Pep rally Almost every university with enviable campus culture has a great Props This is our chance to give the pep rally.

It’s an event that builds culture recognition our recent national by bringing everyone together to champions, the women’s volleyball celebrate the school community. and golf teams, deserve. We will There are some common qualities be honouring them before kickoff. every great pep rally has, so let’s see if the U of M can pass the litmus New cheer Every school has a defining fight test.

Every successful pep rally has song, chant, or cheer. Ours is the energetic students and a top-notch herd call. Learn the herd call. Love stadium. It’s also important a school the herd call. Once you do, you will has talented sports teams. A big have something in common with show with a campus cheer, , and every student here! cheerleaders are a must, too. Finally, there should be some kind of big Motivate and inspire By the end of the pep rally we are game where we can rally behind hoping to motivate and inspire all our school.

Well, the good news is, we have four hundred of our athletes, every everything but a marching band. If student, and our entire faculty, staff, you happen to be a marching band and alumni.

We have a great community here, and are reading this, first, apologies for missing you, and second, we made up of so many wonderful peoshould become friends. We could ple. Let’s showcase it on Sept. 12! use a good marching band.

VOL. 101 NO. 32 August 27, 2014

Sports

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Yakking with Yantz Talking training camp preparation MIKE STILL, STAFF

W

ith the regular season loom- YANTZ: I think so for sure. There’s ing, and anticipation at its peak, a lot of stuff that myself, I need to the University of Manitoba Bisons correct, and a lot of stuff that overall football team entered August all but as an offense we can get better at. waiting to get back on the field. The That’s something that already we’ve Manitoban sat down with Jordan been working at in the off-season.

Yantz prior to training camp, opening I’ve been meeting every Monday on the Aug. 22, to get his preliminary night with my offensive co-ordinator thoughts on what he expects to see and quarterbacks coach going over heading into camp and the regular every single play we ran last year, season. critiquing it, not criticizing, and making sure we know what we can THE MANITOBAN : You led Canada correct.

West in passing yards last season in your first year . What expectations do M: Last year, the offensive was electric. you place on yourself based on those Without saying too much, do you think numbers? Are you almost at the point there will be a heavier emphasis on the of it being Vanier or bust? pass this year based on last season’s success, or will it be a balanced attack?

JORDAN YANTZ: Absolutely.

Obviously some people say it’s a long stretch, but I’m not going to go out “We aren’t short of there and play for a ‘finalist’ [finish].

You play to win. Regardless of the any weapons. Now it season we had last year, regardless just comes down to of what it is, we play to win. I don’t care what it is – you could have a executing” – Jordan group of young guys or a group of old Yantz, quarterback, guys, it’s all about the team coming together.

U of M Bisons I think already in this off-season we have become a closer team.

Obviously we’re going to take it one week at a time, but yeah, we want to YANTZ: I don’t think much will win, and I’m going to do everything change from last year. If anything, in my power in my last season of it may lean a little bit more to the amateur football to win, whatever pass. We really want to maximize it takes. the amount of plays that we run in a game, and we want to be positive M: Is there also a higher expectation on those plays, and be successful on on the team as a whole heading into those plays. We’re going to try and this season with so many veterans have a high-tempo offence, and dicreturning from last year? tate the game.

PHOTO BY BISON SPORTS

M: Are there any specific areas offensively that you are looking to improve on from last year?

YANTZ: We’ve got to capitalize on our chances to score in the red zone, because obviously it’s tougher, and things get a lot smaller when you’re inside that zone. We also can’t be getting on the field and having two and outs. Yes it happens, but we’ve got to worry about moving the ball, and moving the chains, and not relying on 60-yard plays all the time.

M: How important is the chemistry you have already established with

Bison briefs Hockey and men’s volleyball MIKE STILL, STAFF

Hockey

women’s hockey at such a prestig- international hockey experiences to On June 26, Canadian ious event as the Winter Universiade,” help our team go for gold in Spain.”

Interuniversity Sport revealed both coach Rempel told gobisons.ca. the men’s and women’s coaching On the men’s side, Sirant, entering Men’s volleyball staffs that will lead their respective his 19th season as head coach, was On July 21, 2014, second-year hockey teams at the 2015 Winter named one of two associate coaches Bison volleyball player Adam Universiade in Granada, Spain. The alongside Mark Howell of the DeJonckheere was named to biennial, multi-sport event runs from University of Calgary. Dave Adolph Canada’s 14-man Junior National Feb. 4 to 14. of the University of Saskatchewan Volleyball Team. DeJonckheere, Manitoba will be proudly repre- will serve as head coach. This will who was a member of the 2013sented on both sides, as women’s head be the second appearance with 14 CIS All-Rookie Team, had an coach Jon Rempel and men’s head Team Canada for Sirant, who was impressive showing at the National coach Mike Sirant were both selected previously head coach at the 1997 Team Challenge Cup—held from to represent Canada.

Universiade, when Canada won July 15-20 at the Team Canada Rempel, entering his 11th season bronze.

National Training Centre in at the helm for Manitoba, was named “I am honoured and thrilled to be Gatineau, Quebec—which aided in head coach for the women’s side. This a part of the Canada West team that his selection. is his first opportunity to be a part of will represent Canada at the 2015 The National Team Challenge Team Canada.

Winter Universiade,” Sirant told Cup is a yearly inter-provincial vol“I am extremely proud to be rep- gobisons.ca. leyball championship, which includes resenting our country, CIS, the “This is a special opportunity and the top under-19 athletes from every University of Manitoba, and Bison I look forward to sharing my past province.

certain members of the offence from last season?

YANTZ: Coming into spring camp, it was very evident that the chemistry was there. Guys were a lot sharper than they were last year, at the end of the year. I think chemistry-wise it can only get better. With [Matt] Sawyer, [Dustin] Pederson – those guys I’ve been playing with for six years.

With [Nic] Demksi, it’s just Demski. Me and him have our thing, you know. Nobody can stop us; we are the best duo in the CIS, hands down.

We aren’t short of any weapons. Now it just comes down to executing.

M: What are your thoughts on the change this year: having an intersquad scrimmage as opposed to a pre-season game against a fellow Canada West team?

YANTZ: The big thing about it is that we want to see what some of the young guys have got. It’s never the same in practice when, for example, quarterbacks aren’t getting hit and all that. But, we need to have guys to have that grit in training camp.

So, it is what it is, and we’ve got to go about it, and be ready for week one. There’s no excuses just because we don’t have a pre-season game that we can’t be ready.