The Weal - September 21 by The Weal, SAITSA's student run publication

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WEEKLY NEWSPAPER OF THE SAIT STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

EVERY MONDAY THEWEAL.COM

VOLUME 90, ISSUE 02

STRIKING SUCCESS STORY

PAGE 9

CREATING CULINARY CONCOCTIONS

PAGE 3

HIP HOP HAPPENINGS

PAGE 6 FORAGING

FAR-OUT FILMS

PAGE 7

September 21, 2015 | theWeal.com NEWS EDITOR Jeff Wiehler

NEWS WRITER Stephanie Joe

A&E EDITOR Nikki Celis

News

What’s happening in your community

Rolling in the steep

A&E WRITER

SAIT culinary grad selling high-quality teas on campus

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Jeff Wiehler News Editor

AV Anderson

Lambie J. Carruthers

LIFESTYLE WRITER Claire McMillan

OPINIONS EDITOR Chelsea Lees

OPINIONS WRITER Position Available

SPORTS EDITOR Kyle Meller

SPORTS WRITER Jordan Johnson

PHOTO EDITOR Ryan Wellicome

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Adam Dullum

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Andy Maxwell Mawji

ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR Wingz Siu

SAIT students can now enjoy a large selection of loose-leaf teas from a local teashop that has roots within the SAIT community. The Odyssey Coffeehouse is serving a selection of traditional and blended loose-leaf teas from The Tea Factory, a café located in Mission that specializes in all-natural teas in addition to coffee. “We are different; we care about everything we do here,” said Wayne Ha, who started The Tea Factory in April 2013 after recognizing a need for a highquality tea shop in the city. The Tea Factory carries over 120 teas, ranging from conventional teas to modern blends; the Odyssey Coffeehouse serves around 30 varieties. Collaboration between The Tea Factory and the Odyssey Coffeehouse not

only bring high-quality teas to the SAIT campus, but provides another opportunity for The Tea Factory to share its all-natural teas. “It is exciting, and it gives us a chance to introduce more people to our teas,” said Ha, who noted that just like SAIT students who come from around the world, many of their highquality teas come from abroad. Ha is no stranger to SAIT. He graduated in 2009 with a culinary diploma and then worked as a chef in Calgary. Although Ha is no longer professionally chopping and dicing, his approach to food and drinks—which originated from his time in the SAIT culinary program— has remained steady. “I learned how important quality ingredients are to make anything,” said Ha, who now applies his “perfectionist” attitude to both tea and coffee. His experience at SAIT

WEB MASTER

LAYOUT EDITOR Hayley Banyard

LAYOUT ASSISTANT

Jasmine:

this classic green tea is extremely smooth and light, and is notably calming and soothing.

Ryan Wellicome

CONTRIBUTORS

Silver needle: a white tea made from the highest grade of hand picked buds Milk oolong: a unique traditional tea from Taiwan that is creamy and has a sweet, floral flavour.

Direct letters, questions and concerns to:

Strawberry champagne oolong: this fruity oolong tea is currently

MANAGING EDITOR Brent Calver ph. 284-8458 / fax 210-4216

RYAN WELLICOME PHOTOS

Jocelyn Colaiezzi’s favourite pick.

DUTY CALLS September 10 Trespassing At approximately 11:54 a.m., campus security received a call from Calgar y Police Ser vice (CPS) repor ting that they were on-site to follow up on a previous theft at the Stan Grad Bookstore. CPS had caught the individual responsible for the theft. To prevent fur ther incidents at SAIT, CPS brought the subject back to SAIT, so he could be trespassed by security. At approximately 12:03 p.m., security issued a trespass for three (3) years to the subject. September 11 Calls for service At approximately 4:29 p.m.,

Canadian University Press

food closer to where we live,” said Colaiezzi, who also manages the Station Market, the Station Express and SAITSA Seconds. Colaiezzi was initially impressed by the natural ingredients and quality of the teas from The Tea Factory, and Ha’s connection to SAIT provided further encouragement to collaborate with the tea shop. Ha and Colaiezzi selected around 30 teas for selling at the Odyssey Coffeehouse, choosing a variety of classics and student-centric teas (like Remember Me and Study Booster). Colaiezzi also chose a few teas because they “just sounded delicious.” The selection at the Odyssey Coffeehouse will change with the seasons, and Colaiezzi said students can make requests for teas they want to be sold at the campus café. “I want this to be their place.”

It can be a challenge to decide on a tea with all the options at The Tea Factory and the Odyssey Coffeehouse. Wayne Ha, owner of The Tea Factory, recommended these teas:

COVER PHOTOS

Brent Calver, Publications Manager ph. 284-8077 / fax 210-4216 Advertising deadlines Bookings Monday @ noon Published every Monday during the academic year by SAITSA (SAIT Students’ Association). The Weal V219, 1301-16 Ave. N.W. Calgary, Alberta T2M 0L4 Fax: 403-210-4216 The Weal serves the SAIT community by promoting student activities, presenting news of interest to its members, and by fostering a learning environment in which members may participate; the newspaper is supported by student fees. The Weal is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and the Canadian University Press. Contents do not reflect the views of SAIT or SAITSA. Printed direct-to-plate Adobe Acrobat International Web exPress.

and a lack of customers nearly sunk the new business. The Tea Factory has also enjoyed successes and Ha is looking forward to the future of the business. “I want it to be known as the coolest tea shop—be known for everything tea.” Ha is looking for his business to expand its evening presence and become a “tea lounge” that features tea cocktails and live music. In addition to the teashop and the Odyssey Coffeehouse, The Tea Factory also sells their teas at a variety of local restaurants and cocktail lounges in and around Mission. Jocelyn Colaiezzi is the operations manager for the Odyssey Coffeehouse and oversaw the introduction of the new teas. The main motivation in seeking new teas was finding local suppliers for their products. “We are trying to get

Top teas to try

Jessica Herzog

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

encouraged creativity both in and out of the kitchen, and it sparked a “love for making things.” From custom blends to help with steeping times, Ha and his staff consider every pot of tea important, no matter the type of tea or the drinker. The Tea Factory offers drinks beyond tea, including locally roasted coffee from Fratello Coffee. Ha, himself, is a professionally trained barista and wants his café to be more than a teashop. Extending his values of high-quality and all-natural ingredients, Ha sources all the food served at The Tea Factory—from sandwiches to macarons—from local businesses. Like any young business, Ha has seen The Tea Factory endure some challenges. A month after the tea shop opened, the 2013 floods cleared out the surrounding neighbourhood

campus security received a telephone call from a residence staff member requesting assistance with an unwanted guest in the Begin Tower Residence. At approximately 4:42 p.m., security was onsite and met with the staff member. The staff member repor ted that a resident had originally agreed to allow a friend stay in their room but then changed their mind and wanted the friend to leave. At approximately 4:46 p.m., security and the staff member knocked on the door and informed the friend that they were not allowed to stay in the room. At 4:59 p.m., security escor ted the friend from the residence.

September 12 Harassment/threats At approximately 10:06 p.m., security received a call from a residence staff member in the Begin Tower Residence repor ting that a SAIT student had been threatened by an unknown male individual in the P1 parking lot. The student repor ted at approximately 10 p.m., she and three of her friends were approached by a male individual after they parked her vehicle in P1. The subject male became verbally aggressive and demanded the vehicle’s keys before reaching into his pocket. The student and her three friends f led

P1. At approximately 10:33 p.m., security checked P1 for the subject, but could not find anyone matching the description. Security also checked the student’s vehicle for signs of damage and none were found. September 14 Theft At approximately 10:40 a.m., a SAIT student attended the campus security office to repor t that his locker in the basement of the Senator Burns building had been broken into. The student repor ted that he had locked his backpack inside his locker at approximately 7:45 a.m., and when he returned at approximately 5:05 p.m.,

his lock and backpack was missing. His backpack contained his personal laptop.

From the logs of paladin security

theWeal.com | September 21, 2015

SAIT’s Culinary Campus gets involved in upcoming Doors Open YYC Stephanie Joe News Writer Doors Open (DO) YYC is offering a behindthe-scenes sneak peak into local companies, and SAIT’s very own Culinary Campus is taking part. April Schaly is the marketing communications specialist for SAIT and reveals how SAIT Culinary Campus is involved. “We are hosting cooking demonstrations on fresh hummus and flatbread,” says Schaly. “Plus, a cookie decorating station for children.” Demonstrations happen every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26. The event is open to all ages and is free. No registration required. Not only are participants able to make food for themselves, but they can anticipate to learn a few things as well. “People can expect to learn some cooking tips and tricks,” says Schaly. “Plus, walk away with recipe in-hand to enjoy at home.” Schaly believes that this will be a way for SAIT to be noticed within the city’s culinary scene. “The event is a great way for the SAIT Culinary Campus to be an active participant in Calgary’s vibrant culinary community,” she says. SAIT Culinary Campus is located at 226230 8th Ave S.W., and is one of the many events happening at DO YYC. DO YYC is in its fourth year and it is held in the last weekend of September. Alyssa Berry, communications specialist for DO YYC, sees it as a great way for

Professional Cooking student Lee Thompson, right, serves a student lunch in the 4 Nines cafeteria in the John Ware Building on SAIT Campus in Calgary on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015. Most of the food in the 4 Nines cafeteria is prepared by students of SAIT's Professional Cooking program. RYAN WELLICOME PHOTO

people to look behind-the-scenes of places they are not normally allowed to go. “Some sites, in fact, are not normally even open to public access,” says Berry. “Such as the barns at the Calgary Stampede and the STARS Air Ambulance hangar.” With over 40 sites taking part in this

year’s event, Berry claims this is more exciting than years before. She believes there is something that will interest everyone. “Heading into our fifth year, we anticipate more sites, more engaged participants and increased public presence through media and advertising.”

If anyone would like to know more about which events are taking place in Calgary, they are welcome to join in on the fun at www.doorsopenyyc.org.

Upcoming winter will likely be warmer and dryer What you need to El Ni-know Jeff Wiehler News Editor As a result of interactions between the ocean and atmosphere thousands of kilometres away, Calgarians will likely notice the upcoming winter is warmer and dr yer than usual. El Niño is predicted to be par ticularly strong this year, and the historical effects of El Niño events can show some insight on what to expect this season. “What we know is that El Niño usually correlates to a warmer and drier winter in the Calgar y region,” said Dr. John Yackel, geography professor at the University of Calgar y. Yackel, head of the geography depar tment, explained that El Niño ocean sur face temperatures have been tracked since the 1950s, and those temperatures can be compared with Calgar y’s weather to understand the correlations. El Niño is one extreme phase of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which is characterized by changes in water surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean between South America and Australia over a period of multiple years. Extreme warm sur face ocean water events are called “El Niño” while cold events are “La Niña.” When warm ocean water builds up in the Pacific Ocean during El Niño events, interactions between the ocean and atmosphere result in climate effects being

felt all around the world, including right in southern Alber ta. Yackel said since El Niño events typically cause Chinook-like conditions around Calgar y, a strong El Niño event—like this year—will likely cause reduced snowfall and milder temperatures. La Niña events usually results in cooler winters with more precipitation. El Niño is notably strong this year, with some models forecasting it to match or exceed previous strong El Niño events, such as in 1988 and 1998. “What makes this current one interesting is that we usually don't see the Pacific Ocean temperature anomalies with the eastern Pacific warmth build-up this early in the season,” said Yackel. Yackel noted that it is “astonishing” the advancement in remote sensing technologies over the past few decades. Scientists can now monitor oceanic temperatures through satellites and create global forecasts for anomalous seasonal weather that results from El Niño and La Niña. With so many factors that contribute to local weather, El Niño is just one inf luence to the winter forecast, albeit a significant one. A strong El Niño event will not make Calgar y immune to snow and freezing weather, but compared to previous winters, parkas and scar ves may not be needed as much.

3 2

JEFF WIEHLER ILLUSTRATION

How El Niño influences Calgary’s weather

1. Warm water builds up in the eastern Pacific Ocean. 2. Interactions between the warm water and air put more moisture and energy into

the atmosphere. The extra moisture and energy reaches the upper atmosphere and global jet streams are altered. The polar jet stream is pushed northward and the subtropical jet stream strengthens.

The altered jet streams prevent Arctic air from moving southward, and can result in milder and drier winters in southern Alberta.

September 21, 2015 | theWeal.com

News

What’s happening in your community

SAIT welcomes back students with

ANNUAL POWWOW

Stephanie Joe News Writer

SAIT held its annual powwow over the weekend, and par ticipants feel it’s a step in the right direction. Janine Ironquill, of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, took par t in the powwow that was held in SAIT’s Stan Grad Centre on Sept. 12, 2015. She danced in the Women’s Jingle Dress competition. Ironquill feels it’s impor tant for institutions like SAIT to take an interest in Aboriginal culture. “I think it’s ver y impor tant because people should know about our culture, and have a better understanding of what we do and just how normal we are in society,” she says. She wants people within the community to understand that, while Aboriginal people are passionate when it comes to holding on to their heritage, they also lead quite normal lives. “We like to have fun, we like to dance, we’re just normal people but we have our own culture,” says Ironquill. “I think it’s really impor tant that people would like to understand it and learn.” Angela Grier, Chinook Lodge coordinator, said shefeels that events like the powwow can benefit non-indigenous students as well. “The powwow is really beneficial for our non-indigenous brothers and sisters because they are asking us continuously for exposure to cultural events,” says Grier. “While the powwow is considered a more modern, not a traditional type of event, it’s still one where we come to celebrate and [non-indigenous students] can get a taste of the exquisiteness, the diversity, and ever ything of our peoples.”

Kacey Bigcrow shows off her colours during the opening ceremonies of SAIT's annual powwow held in the Stan Grad Centre on Sept 12, 2015. Bigcrow competed in the Teen Girl's Fancy division.

Cains Bullbear of the Siksika nation dances in SAIT's annual powwow held in the Stan Grad Centre on Sept. 12, 2015. Bullbear competed in the junior boys chicken dance.

STEPHANIE JOE PHOTOS

Janine Ironquill of the Nakoda Nation takes part in SAIT's annual powwow in the Stan Grad Centre on Sept. 12, 2015. Ironquill competed in the women's jingle dress competition.

theWeal.com | September 21, 2015

Lifestyle

Your life outside of the classroom

Calgary urban pathways Claire McMillan Lifestyles Writer Individuals looking to promote good health and save gas money on commuting will be able to use the Calgary urban pathways for a solution. The city has one of the leading systems in North America with one of the most extensive networks of pathways and bikeways, said city planner Duane Sutherland. The system has been upgraded in recent years for better access for cyclists, and improved running and walking routesfor leisure. “We are continually updating our pathway system by adding crucial missing links and lifecycle replacing pathways that have met their planned service life,” said Sutherland. The city has recently widened some of the pathways for better access for large strollers and to accommodate a growing population. Cyclists tend to prefer utilizing the “primary access routes” designed for commuting to the city core, local business and education institutions, said Sutherland. “Runners and walkers are more apt to use trails and pathways to experience the natural areas.” he said. Many of the trails are ideal for SAIT students to use since they are close to the school's campus. Sutherland is a graduate of

SAIT’s Civil Engineering Technology program and has knowledge of the area personally. He suggests trying a series of pathways on the south side of the North Hill Shopping Centre. The city has information on their website, and a new app designed to show the location of the trails. By downloading the free app, those who are interested can find out what trails the city has to offer, and experience all of them. The app includes information on newly constructed pathways, the cycling network and social media updates, and will give people quick access to the routes. The city has been working hard to improve existing pathways and now has more than 800 kilometres paved within city limits. Non-profit organization Parks Foundation Calgary is an agent for the city whose aim is to create opportunities to improve quality of life throughout Calgary. Their focus is on “preserving Calgary’s heritage and natural beauty,” and “ensuring parks and open spaces are developed,” according to their website. One of their current projects, the Rotary Mattamy Greenway, has added close to 40 kilometres of new pathways. The network will extend around the perimeter of the city and will have up to 138 kilometres of parks and pathways when completed. The Rotary Project will offer the same to Calgary cyclists as the Stoney Trail offers to drivers, said Suther-

land, adding that increased usage benefits everyone. “It would lessen the traffic on the roads and improve health and well being to the citizens who use this mode of transportation.” All seasons are good for using the pathways, but Sutherland cautions that winter snow removal is limited. “We try and concentrate on path-

ways that offer connections to the core, education and recreation facilities,” Sutherland said. Walking, biking, and running are preferred methods of transport that will lessen traffic on the roads and improve individuals’ health. “Any alternate transportation is important for the environment and health and citizens of Calgary."

HAYLEY BANYARD ILLUSTRATION

Smart budgeting for students

Lambie J. Carruthers Lifestyles Editor Saving money, budgeting, and student loan management for college students can be as big of a learning cur ve outside the classroom as it is in. Whether a first-time student or returning, learning smar t strategies can h elp establish a solid foundation for the future. Megan Desplanque, Customer Ser vice Manager for ATB Financial located on SAIT’s campus, said the first thing students can do is find a bank that offers free student chequing and savings accounts. Savings accounts that allow a one-time withdrawal for free are meant to discourage withdrawals for impulsive purchases, Desplanque said, which helps with saving and budgeting. Students should transfer lump sums of money (such as student loans) into a savings account where a higher rate

of interest is earned over the course of a semester and monthly living expenses get transferred out as needed, Desplanque said. Some financial institutions offer an online tracking feature that categorize debit purchases on a monthly basis, Desplanque said, adding that this feature puts into perspective how much a coffee a day adds up to. “This is an awesome tool because most people use debit and you can see you spent this much on eating out, or this much on groceries,” she said. Spending trackers are excellent tools for students to see where they can better manage their spending, Desplanque explained. Online trackers are featured through most financial institutions. CIBC has a personal budgeting tool to categorize spending and access a more detailed view of transaction

activity, and ATB Financial’s feature is called “Track it.” “Seeing that combined number makes you think you could make your own coffee for a lot less,” Desplanque said, adding that that same number could be put into a savings account. “Educate yourself, shop around, and do your research,” she said. Students can receive free money through promotions and referrals. For example, upon opening a new

Students First Account before September 30, ATB Financial will deposit $150 into the account the four th month after opening it. Other institutions offer student bonuses and incentives for banking with them during college careers too. BMO offers special student promotions with gift cards, cash back, and chances to win free tuition and books. EVAN BUHLER PHOTO

Facing an unplanned pregnancy? Let’s talk options... Talk 403.270.8228

Text 403.519.7927

September 21, 2015 | theWeal.com

Arts & Entertainment

Culture for the SAIT community

FreeFall launches final issue of 25 series

Ryan Stormquist, managing editor of FreeFall magazine, hosts the previous launch at Shelf Life Books on May 27, 2015.

NIKKI CELIS PHOTO

Nikki Celis A&E Editor Readers and writers, both established and emerging, will be able to catch FreeFall magazine’s final issue of the season, celebrating 25 years of distinguished writing. The third issue of their 25th series will premiere with a launch event on Oct. 1, located at Shelf Life Books. The event will feature eight readers that will showcase their stories in front of an audience. However, what makes this issue and launch special is that it is entirely Calgar y-based. “We wanted to finish off our 25th an-

niversar y issue with something special,” says Ryan Stromquist, managing editor of FreeFall magazine. “It was kind of based off a Single Onion series [that featured] collective poetr y, spoken word poetr y, and avantgarde poetr y and how these communities bounced off one another. “[With the issue], it shows the value of multiple voices and their eclectic-ness.” FreeFall, of the two literar y magazines present in the city, is an independent publication that features writers both well established and emerging throughout Canada. The other magazine, fillingstation, is associated with the University of Calgar y.

While this doesn’t pose too much of an issue, Stromquist says there can be certain “barriers” with whom they publish. “They have a mandate. They have to publish university students so the quality of ar t is often suspect. “Magazines like us, we publish people from around the world, although with FreeFall, we’re locked in with Canadianbased writers and ar tists but as a whole the quality of ar t goes up a bit.” Nonetheless, he says both magazines allow a student or writer publication credits, which help with grant applications as well as show employers that one is serious about writing. “Not only will we publish authors, but we submit their work to a lot of literar y awards here in Canada. “FreeFall can propel your career.” And while that’s all well and good on a professional level, he says it helps build up a writer’s character and esteem on a personal level, too. With readings, Stromquist says it helps a writer come out of their “bubble.” “Most of the time, when you’re writing it’s just you and yourself. You’re either writing in a basement at four o’clock in the morning or late at night after your shift. “Reading in front of an audience gives you more experience [with the community]. “It gives you more confidence.” One significant moment for Stromquist was publishing their first Ontario-based writer. They f lew him in for one of their launch events where he had to take par t in a reading.

“It took him out of the bubble he was in and now he’s just exploded. The quality of his writing has gone way up—he’s got a lot of followers online now." Not only is this beneficial to the individual, but, in terms of the ar ts, Stromquist says it helps foster and elevate the community as a whole. Cr ystal Mackenzie, circulation manager and prose editor of FreeFall, says literar y magazines offer an alternative sor t of voice in contrast to what some consider mainstream. “Those who are considered experimental, political, or on-the-fringe have an [outlet] that can showcase their ar t and, in our case, literar y work,” she says. Stromquist adds that literar y magazines allow a sor t of intersection amongst writers, as each issue features both emerging ar tists and writers with those that are more established, which in turn aids the community. For prospective readers and writers looking delve into the literar y community, Mackenzie says, in regards to FreeFall, that 25 years of publishing quality writing is something to consider. “While the magazine might not be making millions of dollars, it’s obvious that it still has its strength and power with the community that it suppor ts,” she says. “So, I think it doesn’t hur t to look and see what 25 years of that means—seeing something that isn’t on the main street." FreeFall will be celebrating their final 25th anniversary at Shelf Life Books on Oct. 1 at 7 p.m.

what's

HAPPENING

Gathered by Av Anderson

SEPTEMBER 18 BROKEN CITY Gold & Shadow, 9 p.m. SEPTEMBER 23 BROKEN CITY Slim Twig with Melted Mirror and Dead Empire, 8 p.m. SEPTEMBER 25 BROKEN CITY Van Damsel, Tourist Company and Marlaena Moore, 8 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 26 DICKENS PUB Classic Simpsons Trivia, Doors at 4 p.m. SEPTEMBER 26 WINE OHS Until Red with Rick Poltaruk, 9 p.m. - 12 a.m.

SEPTEMBER 17 THE ILLINGTON WORTH GALLERY ACAD Faculty Show Opening, 5 p.m.

SEPT. 23 - OCT. 4 THE GLOBE CINEMA, AND OTHER VENUES Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF)

SEPT. 21 -OCT. 18 CONTEMPORARY GALLERY Why Can’t Minimal, 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. SEPTEMBER 21-30 WALLACE GALLERIES/MAIN FLOOR Shi Le: “Stream of Light”, All Day SEPTEMBER 25-27 OLYMPIC PLAZA Alberta Culture Days Kick, Off Party, 3:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

weekly

SEPTEMBER 17 BROKEN CITY Grounders with Manaray, Serious Clouds, 9 p.m.

MONDAY BROKEN CITY Stand-up Comedy 7 p.m. SATURDAY BROKEN CITY Old School Hip-Hop 9 p.m. WEDNESDAY THE PLAZA THEATRE Late Night at the Plaza 10 p.m.

theWeal.com | September 21, 2015

Local director brings his project to life at the

Calgary International Film Festival

RYAN WELLICOME PHOTO

Nikki Celis A&E Editor Thomas Robert Lee, a Calgary-based director, will be premiering his film at the Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) that he says will be immersive, genre-bending—and also trippy. Titled Empyrean, the movie is Lee’s brainchild; something that he’s spent the past four years working on, not too long after he had graduated from SAIT Polytechnic’s Video and Production program in 2010. “I came out of graduating from school with this weird sort of epiphany,” he says. “I’m not suddenly directing movies; I was like, what’s happening?” he laughs. “So, I sat down and wrote a feature film that I knew I could make on a micro-budget.” A lot of the films themes, Lee felt, were timeless themes. “The main theme of the film is the search for meaning—the search for God—the search for whatever. It’s such an open-ended question that you come across in lots of books and movies throughout the ages.” While Lee says the easiest way to classify Empyrean would be Science-Fiction with religious undertones, audiences shouldn’t rely on such a generalization as he says it isn’t the most accurate. “I don’t think it’s going to be what a lot of people are expecting." Empyrean, tells the story of a man, William Fischer, who, after a near-death experience, experiences a psychic

awakening, which in turn affects his relationships and his marriage as he struggles with the impulse to return to nature. The film also explores the protagonist’s psyche. “Is he going insane? Is he losing his mind? Is this really happening?” Lee says. The film, shot in May and June of 2014, was filmed in black and white. Lee wanted Empyrean to have a timeless aspect and look to it, especially with costume design, which helps when making a movie with a small budget of $500,000. The film’s score was composed with Bryan Buss of Jung People, with the aid of his band as well as that of the Philharmonic Orchestra. Much of his crew were locals as well as peers that he graduated at SAIT with, which really helped Lee ease into his environment. He says one thing to take mind of is that the last 25 minutes of the film will be entirely without dialogue. He remarks that it was quite a challenge since that was the first part they had shot when making the film. “It was just one actor on set for six days.” “I couldn’t imagine what it was like for Cody Thompson (the actor),” Lee says, in regards to that span of isolation. “He was a good sport and it was a good way for me to ease into [directing] as well because there was just one person for me to direct." Since there was no dialogue, Lee says they were able to spend more time establishing their visual style further into the film, which he finds important.

“Me and [Bradley Stuckel], the cinematographer, dedicated ourselves to make something that was visually rich. “With the last half of the film, there’s very much that [message] of awareness to it.” With the timeless look and the formal way they composed each scene, Lee wanted to experiment with something that he says was “at times formally tasteful yet very psychedelic.” He calls these specific scenes trips. “They’re boldly edited,” he says. “Me and Frank, the sound designer, got to go nuts with the sound design—we also mixed the whole film in mono.” For the layman, all the sound comes from one speaker; however, Lee says that as the story progresses and delves further into the protagonist’s head, the audio will then expanded to 5.1 surround sound. “It’s very immersive. “It’s also very loud,” he laughs. Empyrean wasn’t a walk in the park to make, however. Being an independent filmmaker, Lee had spent over a year trying to accrue enough money for the budget. “Everyone [in the crew] was paid except for me,” he laughs. “I still have a day job,” he says. “I have to put my hours every week in a job that isn’t film. I did that to myself in a way. “I chose to have the time I had to work on the script— my own script—my passion project.” “Tommy is incredibly unique, in that right after he left film school he set upon a very ambitious project and actually finished it,” says producer Amy Darling, president and CEO of film company Media Darling. "He’s really one of the more incredible first-time filmmakers I’ve ever met in my career because … when you’re a director and filmmaker, you’re really in a vulnerable position, especially [being] independent, because you’re trying to bring your vision to life,” she says. “This is his baby. This isn’t work for hire. This is really his.” For those looking to attend CIFF, Lee hopes that with Empyrean, audiences will be down to see something that’s “trying to do something new, something ambitious.” And for aspiring filmmakers, Lee had this advice to give: “Don’t give up. Work super hard. “If you want to be a cinematographer, spend time on set; if you’re a writer get in touch with local screenwriters,” he says. “Think about it 24/7 and you’ll make it happen.”

Thomas Robert Lee’s Empyrean premieres at 7 p.m. on Oct. 3 at the Calgary International Film Festival located at the Globe Cinema (downstairs). A scene from Thomas Robert Lee's Empyrean, which will be shown at the Calgary International Film Festival

September 21, 2015 | theWeal.com

Sports

Sports news and views for the SAIT community

Setting the pace Jordan Johnston Sports Writer The Trojans soccer teams have set the bar high this year as they go for the win and play a competitive season. “I like to be competitive,” said women’s soccer coach John Talerico. The women’s team goal is to make it to playoffs this year, said Talerico. “We’ve trained well and are becoming more of a team,” said Talerico. “We’ll play well and play the game the way it’s supposed to be [played].” This is Talerico’s first year as head coach of the women’s team; for the past several years Grant Stevens has coached both the mens and womens teams together. “The team and I have had some fun moments,” said Talerico. “I’m looking forward to a great year of training.” As much as Stevens

enjoyed coaching the two teams, he said it was quite time consuming. Stevens and Talerico said they have a great mix of rookie and veteran players this year. “We have a lot of first time players in this compet-

itive of a league,” said Talerico. “I’m hoping they will be able to sustain throughout the season.” Talerico said the team has been progressing the way he had anticipated. “Teamwork is our main focus,” said Stevens.

“It’s just going to be a matter of coming together to win.” Stevens said this year’s goal for the men’s team is to finish first, then head off to Nationals. Stevens said that the team is great in regards

to skill; they just need to all be on the same page mentally. “The biggest challenge will be deciding where and what to do,” said Stevens. The teams are starting to come together. Talerico said overnight

trips usually help build the team’s relationship stronger. “It’s definitely going to be a great year,” said Stevens. “Every year is a great year, but I think that this year will be rather special.”

John Talerico, women's soccer head coach, poses for a photograph infront of the dressing rooms at SAIT in Calgary on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015. This is Talerico's first year as a head coach, previously he served as an assistant coach to both the men's and women's teams.

KYLE MELLER PHOTO

theWeal.com | September 21, 2015

Never give up Kyle Meller Sports Editor When Mitch Henr y woke up today, he felt like he did back before 2012. Getting to this point, however, was an uphill battle. Growing up, Henr y was an avid soccer player,

star ting at the age of three; he always played in the highest division. “I’ve played almost ever y spor t, but soccer is obviously something that I was really interested in from a young age.” Schools in both Canada and internationally were salivating at the chance to have this athlete attend their institution, but then ever ything came crashing down.

Trojans soccer star Mitch Henry laces up for practice in his first year back.

RYAN WELLICOME PHOTOS

In Januar y of 2012, Henr y suffered an upper body injur y that prevented him from playing the game he loved. “When the doctors told me I couldn’t play spor ts or even run, it really put a damper on things. “I lost all motivation.” The lack of motivation was obser ved by those around him, including parents, teachers, and coaches. After spiraling into depression, due to not being able to play, Henr y turned to some self-described “bad decisions.” In a testimonial letter from his parents, Judy and Dar yl, they talk of the withdrawal their son experienced from all his close connections. It got to the point that during the months of Januar y to July of 2013, Henr y lost five jobs. “It was clear to all of those who loved him that Mitch’s decision making abilities were non-existent,” his mother said. A friend had called the Henr y family, mentioning a clinic that dealt with the depression symptoms brought on by the injur y. “What did we have to lose?” Judy Henr y claimed. It took two days and four sessions for the improvement to star t. In the letter, they recall their son “bouncing” through the door on the second day. By day three, he was jogging after spending the previous 20 months inactive. The long trek back to his former self had begun. “It’s helped me to be healthier, make more friends, and better choices,” said Mitch Henr y. The process culminated with his acceptance to SAIT’s electrician apprenticeship program. That’s often not enough for someone like Mitch Henr y, so he went and tried out for the soccer team. He had played with several of the players on the team growing up, and thought it was a good time to tr y and get back to his former self. The potential scholarships towards his education, which is key to Henr y, were also another factor in his decision. It was a testament to the long road the entire family, especially Mitch Henr y, had travelled, when the news came he had made the team. “It gives me pride to be able to be involved in something like this.” As far as his injuries go, doctors have cleared Mitch Henr y to par ticipate in contact spor ts. The future seems bright for this athlete on the return to his former self; at least, he cer tainly thinks so. “I think the old Mitch is back.”

September 21, 2015 | theWeal.com

Opinions

Your student government working for you

St. Patrick's Island gets a facelift

Recent revitalization of St. Patrick’s Island has expanded East Village efforts onto a flood plane and into people hearts. Chelsea Lees Opinions Editor Thanks to a hefty $20 million from the community revitalization levy (courtesy of the Dave Bronconnier days) this 31-acre island in the middle of the Bow River has been modestly transformed from a space of considerable disrepair to a community haven. Responding to the requests of the public in surrounding communities, the facelift tried to keep it as natural as possible. Susan Veres, vice president of the Calgary Municipal Land Development, comments that the public wanted what she refers to as a “light touch,” meaning any development should be to enhance the natural environment of the island and not involve heavy construction. That choice has been a breathe of fresh air considering recent downtown developments which have resulted in a surplus of concrete and steel. Calgary’s maturity has, in many cases, eliminated some of its greener spaces. St Patrick’s Island acts as a pleasant detour option between the East Village and Inglewood, offering lots of space to play and an abundance of educational programs. The changes are clearly putting the island back on the map, perhaps even reminding senior citizens of the days the island was used as a city campground. Calgarian Will Pritchard is concerned, however, that investing so much resources into an area considered a flood plane could potentially be a waste.

“[The island might be] more expensive to maintain considering there could be another flood [or other] environmental factors,” said Pritchard. He is in favour, however, of the island being used to demonstrate environmental healing and reconstruction. Perhaps a hands-off approach would reduce the risk of damage on the investment. Comments that the redevelopment of St. Patrick’s Island has been well received, and well worth any potential flood risk. “Islands flood themselves, that’s what they do,” Veres said, adding that it was of course a consideration in the recovery of the island. The result was the re-establishment of a natural channel that not only takes pressure away from the edges of the island with changing river levels, but also offers a safe oasis for visitors to dip their toes. Veres said the resulting reaction to the changes have been remarkably positive, even humbling. A self launch in July inspired a number of comments, ones that they are still taking time to respond to. By taking into consideration of exactly what the public wants, they can really work to tailor the space to be an inner-city oasis. And Calgary deserves a little bit of heaven in the middle of its chaos, with all of the city’s efforts in growth and development. Perhaps the island's success will even inspire more desperately needed projects of the greener intent.

KYLE MELLER PHOTOS

theWeal.com | September 21, 2015

Executive Corner

Your student government working for you

What's on our pizza? Joshua Bettle SAITSA VP External

MIKAELA MACKENZIE PHOTO

Have you ever been in a group and you all decide to order a pizza for everyone to share? On this pizza, you all had to decide on the toppings together. Everyone has to eat the same pizza once the decision is made – the only way to get another pizza is to wait until the next time the group orders or go to a different group. It may seem simple: just place the toppings on the pizza that everybody likes. But then we discover that not everyone wants the same ingredients. One person may want thick crust, while someone else prefers thin crust. One person wants barbeque sauce while another person wants ranch dressing. Then two people argue over red or green peppers, and how many toppings should go on the pizza. Everyone does agree, though, that the pizza will not contain something that can kill someone. Some people will propose their own list of ingredients to everyone. Some people will blurt out certain toppings that they want and consent to the first person to include these toppings in their proposed list of ingredients. Some people will consent to any pizza and leave the room until the pizza arrives. Usually the group finds two or three different recipes that are appealing. The most popular recipe, as decided by those remaining in the room, gets ordered. When the pizza arrives, there will likely be some people who don’t like the pizza and others that enjoy it. Some people

are congratulated on creating their choice of ingredients, and others will work on their own recipes for next time. There will always be some people who complain about the pizza but never gave their input while ordering. There will always be some people who spoke in favour of a different recipe but were outnumbered. In the end, everybody gets enough pizza to satisfy their hunger until the next time pizza is ordered. This has striking similarities to our democratic system. The government is the pizza, we all own the pizza place, the suggestions are the candidates and the group is us. This semester, there are two big pizzas for you, as a SAIT student, to choose: •The SAITSA Board of Directors will be voted in on September 24 and 25 (a link to the vote will be in your SAIT email account on the 24th). •The Canadian Pizza Government will be decided on October 19. To get a reminder of when, where and how to vote for that election click on this link: http://saitsa.getoutthevote.ca Enjoy the semester! Joshua

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE EXECUTIVE CORNER ARE NOT NECESSARILY THAT OF THE WEAL.

Campus Comment Journalism student Ryan Wellicome asks "What do you like about the new SAITSA app?"

"I like the events calendar. It's nice to know when

"Easy to navigate. I like having access at home."

things are coming up."

"It was pretty simple. I really like the community

"I really like to see what's going on. There's a lot

posts."

of stuff on it." Mariah King

Seamus Johnston

Erin Galambos -

Austin Pettis

Second-year

First-year

First-semester

First-year

Journalism

Engineering Design and Drafting Technology

Academic Upgrading.

Business Administration

Stay tuned next week, when we ask the SAIT student body...

"What's your take on bike lanes?"

September 21, 2015 | theWeal.com