Vue Weekly 895 Dec 13 - Dec 19

FREE

(DRUM KIT, AS IS)

FRONT: DRUG TESTS!

#895 / DEC 13 – DEC 19, 2012 VUEWEEKLY.COM

ARTS: BOB PRODOR!

MUSIC: EAMON MCGRATH!

2 FRONT

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

HU RR Y, O

FF

ER

EN DS

SO O N!

EDMONTON

Get a great deal on Samsung LTE devices

AND GIVE THE GIFT OF LTE SPEED

Cellcom Wireless Edmonton City Ctr. (780) 421-4540 South Edmonton Common (780) 485-9812 340 Mayfield Common NW (780) 489-2255 Cell Mart Millwoods Main Street (780) 440-2812 West Edmonton Mall, Chinatown (780) 483-8838 Digital Communications 10176-109 St. (780) 426-2355 9715-137 Ave. (780) 456-5339 10013-170 St. (780) 408-8917 Unit 1B, 934-91 St. SW 780-485-8044 6031 Gateway Blvd.

(780) 438-2355 Southgate Center (780) 434-5620 12302 Stony Plain Rd. (780) 488-6622 West Edmonton Mall Phase 1: (780) 484-4758 Phase 2: (780) 413-9855 Phase 3: (780) 443-3040

SHERWOOD PARK Digital Communications #318, 222 Baseline Rd. (780) 417-2355

ST. ALBERT Digital Communications Inglewood Town Ctr. (780) 419-2355 St. Albert North (780) 459-0660

SAVE

50

$

LEDUC

1

with select 3-yr. FLEXtabTM agreements

ON THE HOTTEST SAMSUNG LTE DEVICES

UP TO 12 MONTHS FREE UNLIMITED VIDEO STREAMING

2

ON YOUR SUPERPHONE

SAVE

ACTIVATION FEE + + NO ENDS DECEMBER 31.

50%OFF 3

st

ALL VALUE PACKS4

RogersAnyplaceTV.com

Cell Mart Leduc Town Ctr. (780) 986-0986

SPRUCE GROVE Cell Mart #112, 183 Highway 16A (780) 962-3980

WETASKIWIN Wetaskiwin Mall (780) 352-5246

GET ON THE FASTEST LTE NETWORK IN EDMONTON CALL 1 888 ROGERS1 | CLICK ROGERS.COM/LTESUPERPHONES | VISIT YOUR LOCAL ROGERS RETAIL STORE

FREEDOMEXCITING

NETWORKCHAT

LIFE

text

LIFE share

ACCESS

LIFETEXT FIRST

FAST

CHATACCESS

TALKSHARERELIABLE

NETWORK

CCESS RELIABLE

TALKFRIENDS

SURF

RELIABLE TEXT

CONNECTEXCITING

FRIENDS

HAT FREEDOM

CONNECT FREEDOM

Rogers LTE network available in select cities. See rogers.com/LTE.

Creating World-Leading Internet Experiences.

EXCITINGFRIENDS

Offers available for a limited time and subject to change without notice. 1 Superphone $50 discount with new activation before Jan 7/13 on any 3-yr. talk and internet plan having min. $45 monthly service fee. Tablet $50 discount with new activation on any 3-yr. mobile internet plan having min. $22 monthly service fee or Share Ready Access plan having min. $17 monthly service fee. Device Savings Recovery Fee and/or Service Deactivation Fee (as applicable) apply in accordance with your service agreement. FLEXtab balance corresponds to the sum of the Device Savings Recovery Fee and the Additional Device Savings Recovery Fee. 2 Up to 12 months unlimited video streaming on your smartphone (not shareable among devices) available to new wireless internet customers who activate an eligible 3-yr. term talk and internet plan (3 months with $55 single line/$110 family plan; 6 months with $65 single line/$130 family plan; and 12 months with $75 or $95 single line/$150 or $190 family plan respectively). Usage subject to Rogers Terms of Service and Acceptable Use Policy. Visit rogers.com/terms. 3 Activation Fee waived for eligible new activations before Dec. 31/12. 4 Available with new activation (or hardware upgrade) between Nov. 29 – Jan. 7/13 on any 3-yr. plan having min. $65 monthly service fee. Subject to change without notice. Device Saving Recovery Fees and/or Service Deactivation Fee (as applicable) apply in accordance with your service agreement. ©2012 Rogers Communications

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

FRONT 3

4 FRONT

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MEMBERS GET

UNLIMITED AWESOMENESS.

For a limited time, hook up with the new $56/mo. plan and get the Motorola RAZR V or Samsung Galaxy Ace II x for $0.

Plus, get Exclusive Access & Deals from our awesome partners.

TM

TM

Up to $20 $2 20 off

Get 25% 5% % off

GET UP TO A

100

$

Get a shot at sweet $100 movie gift cards

IN-STORE CREDIT

$56/mo. gets you: • UNLIMITED Canada-Wide Calling • UNLIMITED Canada, US and International Text & Picture Messaging • Voicemail 10 & Call Display • 2 GB of Data

$

0

0

$

virginmobile.ca/unlimited

Limited time offer. One-time activation charge ($35) may apply to each line. Taxes extra. 911 monthly fees apply in NB (53¢), NS (43¢), PEI (70¢), SK (62¢) and QC (40¢). The $100 value in-store credit and smartphone pricing only available with new activations on a 3-year term or the Virgin Mobile SuperTabTM. Unlimited Text excludes premium texts and costs extra. Unlimited Text & Picture Messaging is valid only when message is sent from Canada.Canada-Wide Calling is valid only when calls are made from Canada. Upon early termination, price adjustments apply; see your Service Agreement for details. Subject to change without notice and cannot be combined with other offers, unless otherwise indicated. Phones and colours may not be available at retailers. See virginmobile.ca for details and restrictions. Member Benefits subject to change/cancellation at any time without notice. Screen images simulated. MOTOROLA and the RAZR V logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC. © 2012 Motorola Mobility, Inc. © 2012 Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc. Samsung and Samsung Galaxy ACE II xTM are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc., and/or its related entities, used with permission. All other trademarks, trade names, logos and product names may be the trademarks of their respective owners. The VIRGIN trademark and family of associated marks are owned by Virgin Enterprises Limited and used under licence. © 2012 Virgin Mobile.

VIRMASP23980_HeavyUp_VUE_Edm_P12366H4.indd 1

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

File Name:

VIRMASP23980_HeavyUp_VUE_Edm_P12366H4.indd

Docket #:

VIR_MAS_P23980

Trim Size:

10.25˝w x 13.75˝h

Signoffs

Creative Team

12-12-10 1:13 PM5 FRONT

SAVE on music gifts that rock!

SAVE $20 59ªª Top Load Karaoke System • Video output • Built-in speaker system SML-385 WebID: 10110595

Great DEAL!

99ªª

SAVE $20 99ªª

Single Cutaway Electric Guitar

61-Key Digital Keyboard

• Basswood body • 2 Humbucker pickups • Rosewood fingerboard and maple neck • 24.8" scale length

• 400 built-in tones • 3-tone sampling capacity CTK-2300AD WebID: 10201439

UVX1001 WebID: 10225769

SAVE $5 34ªª

39ªª iKlip Universal Microphone Stand Adapter • Multi-angle and lightweight design • Attaches to virtually any microphone stand iKlip WebID: 10168051

iPad sold separately.

Interface Adapter for iOS Devices • Plug in your guitar and jam • Lightweight and portable iRig WebID: 10151147

iPhone/iPod/iPad sold separately.

Musical instruments are now available at all Edmonton stores.

Selection varies from store to store. See a Product Expert for details.

SAVE $2 7ªª

SAVE $3 16ªª

Classic Guitar Stand

Wireless Karaoke Microphone

XCG-4-BOXED WebID: 10174715

SMM-107 WebID: 10110596

• Velveteen rubber • Safety strap and removable lower yoke

PRICE BEAT PROMISE

• Dynamic unidirectional VHF wireless mic • Wide frequency response with LED indicator

We’ll beat any price you find online, in-store, or in print by 10% of the difference.

Some conditions and exclusions apply. See futureshop.ca/pricebeat for details.

Choose from all the top brands. Now doesn't that sound sweet?

24 MONTHS

✔ equal payments ✔ no interest on all purchases over $299.

Prices and product valid in-store only at all Edmonton Future Shop locations December 7 - December 20, 2012. References to savings or sale prices are comparisons to Future Shop regular prices.

ADVERTISING POLICY: Some products in this ad may be slightly different from illustrations. Not all products are available in all stores. Future Shop is committed to accurate pricing. Website prices, products, and promotions may differ from our retail store offerings. Future Shop reserves the right to correct errors. Special offers cannot be combined or applied to previous purchases. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Terms and conditions subject to change without notice. New release dates are subject to change without notice. Ask a Product Expert for complete details.

IMPORTANT CHASE CONSUMER FINANCING INFORMATION: ­ On approved credit only on your Future Shop Card. Not available for online transactions. Min purchase and admin fee apply for offers of 6 months or more as set out below. The financed amount includes taxes and admin fee (if applicable) if not paid up front. "No Interest with Minimum Payments” offer: Interest will accrue on financed amount at 29.9% from the date of the transaction but will be waived if financed amount paid in full on or before the Promotion End Date (shown on your statement). If not paid in full when due, or if your Future Shop account falls 4 billing cycles past due (which automatically terminates offer), interest on unpaid balance of financed amount will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account commencing the first day of your next billing cycle after such event. Min monthly payments equal to the greater of 1% of the financed amount or $10.00 required and will be included in your Base Payment due each month. “Equal Payments, No Interest” offer: Equal monthly installments determined by dividing financed amount by number of months of offer. Interest will accrue on financed amount at the annual interest rate of 29.9% from the purchase date but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due. If not paid in full when due, interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account. If your Future Shop Card account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer automatically terminates and interest on unpaid balance of financed amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account. “Same as Cash with Min Pay” offer: No min or admin fee purchase required. Interest accrues on financed amount at 29.9% from the date of the original transaction but will be waived if you pay the financed amount in full on or before the Promotion End Date (shown on your statement). If not paid in full when due, or if your Future Shop account falls 4 billing cycles past due (which automatically terminates offer), the interest accrued on the unpaid financed amount will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account. Min monthly payments equal to the greater of 1% of the financed amount or $10.00 required and will be included in your Base Payment due each month. See offer in-store or Cardmember Agreement for more details.

6 FRONT

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

Effective Dates: Dec 7 - 20, 2012 Creative: N/A Lead: N/A

10.25" x 13.75" 1 Page TAB: Page 1

Zones/Layers Pricing/Edits

Proofed at

%

Nov 30-Dec 23 STARRING JAMES MACDONALD ADAPTED BY TOM WOOD DIRECTED BY BOB BAKER & GEOFFREY BRUMLIK BASED ON THE STORY BY CHARLES DICKENS

TICKETS START AT $

35

PRESENTED BY

780 425 1820 •

•

citadeltheatre.com

CITADEL THEATRE ROB B I N S

ACADEM Y

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

FRONT 7

TELUS STORE OR AUTHORIZED DEALER Downtown 9915 108A Ave. NW 11315 104th Ave.

Naughty or nice, you still get a $300 Visa Prepaid Card.

Malls Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre Edmonton City Centre Kingsway Garden Mall

®

Londonderry Mall Millwoods Town Centre Northgate Mall South Edmonton Common Southgate Centre TELUS Plaza North West Edmonton Mall

West End 9935 170th St. 10429 178th St. 14220 Yellowhead Trail 14903 118th Ave. NW 17508 Stony Plain Rd.

North 9410 137th Ave. NW 9624 165th Ave. 10642 82nd Ave. NW 12714 137th Ave.

South 1916 99th St. 1934 38th Ave. NW 4515 Gateway Blvd.

4909 99th St. NW 5912 104th St. 8710 51st Ave. 9518 Ellerslie Rd. SW 10309 34th Ave. 13034 50th St.

Leduc 5311 Discovery Way 5906 50th St. 6109 45th St.

Morinville 9918 100th St.

We’ll give you a FREE $300 Visa Prepaid Card when you bundle Optik TV and Internet on a 3 year term.

St. Albert TM

St. Albert Centre

*

20 Muir Dr.

Sherwood Park

Get Optik TV and Internet from $68/month.† Call 310-MYTV (6988).

Sherwood Park Mall 973 Ordze Rd. 975 Broadmoor Blvd.

Spruce Grove Westland Market Mall 96 Campsite Rd.

Go to telus.com/optik or visit your TELUS Store or Authorized Dealer.

Fort Saskatchewan ®

8701 94th St. 9542 86th Ave. 9914 103rd St.

Offer available until December 31, 2012, to residential customers who have not subscribed to TELUS TV or Internet service in the past 90 days. Minimum system requirements apply. Final eligibility for service will be determined by a TELUS representative. *A cancellation fee applies for early termination of the service agreement and will be $10 for TV services and $8 for Internet services, multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term. Visa Prepaid Card offer available while quantities last. Offer includes a $300 Visa Prepaid Card. Visa Prepaid Card is issued by Peoples Trust Company pursuant to a licence by Visa Inc. Cards are issued in connection with a loyalty, award or promotion program. Card is issued in the name of the account holder and is not transferable and cannot be issued to minors. Card does not have cash access and can be used at any merchants that accept Visa cards. Card is valid for up to 12 months; unused funds forfeit at midnight EST on the last day of the month of the valid-thru date, subject to applicable law. Country restrictions apply and are subject to change. Card terms, conditions and limitations apply; see MyPrepaidCenter.com/site/visa-univ-can for details. TELUS reserves the right to substitute an equivalent or better product without notice. Offer cannot be combined with promo prices. †Price includes Optik TV Essentials and Optik High Speed Internet. TELUS reserves the right to modify rates without notice. TELUS, the TELUS logo, Optik, Optik TV, Optik Internet and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2012 TELUS.

8 FRONT

CLIENT

TELUS – FFH

CREATED

Nov 18/2012

CREATIVE

Darcy T

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012 FFH121149BC_32_EdmontonVue.VEVU.indd MAC ARTIST

sarah

ACCOUNT

Quinn I

APPROVALS ART DIRECTOR/DESIGNER:

WRITER

LISTINGS: EVENTS /13 FILM /16 ARTS /33 MUSIC /39 CLASSIFIEDS: GENERAL /43 ADULT /44 ISSUE: 895 DEC 13 – DEC 19, 2012

FRONT/10 FILM/13 DISH/18 SNOW/28 ARTS/30 MUSIC/34

Japandroids "You have to understand, for us, more happened in about three days than had happened in the previous three years."

34 12 30 36

"If we can't agree on measures to stop the average global perature from going up, can we learn to live with it?"

tem-

"We try not to make a big difference between adult theatre and children's theatre. We just want to tell really good stories."

"It's like, dude, you're at a noise show. You're literally at a fucking hardcore punk show right now. He's not playing 'Heart of Gold.'"

VUEWEEKLY #200, 11230 - 119 STREET, EDMONTON, AB T5G 2X3 | T: 780.426.1996 F: 780.426.2889

FOUNDING EDITOR / PUBLISHER ....RON GARTH

PRESIDENT ............................... ROBERT W DOULL

PUBLISHER / SALES & MARKETING MANAGER ROB LIGHTFOOT.................................................................................................................... rob@vueweekly.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / MANAGING EDITOR EDEN MUNRO ..................................................................................................................... eden@vueweekly.com NEWS EDITOR REBECCA MEDEL ........................................................................................................ rebecca@vueweekly.com ARTS & FILM EDITOR PAUL BLINOV ..................................................................................................................... paul@vueweekly.com MUSIC EDITOR EDEN MUNRO ................................................................................................................... eden@vueweekly.com DISH EDITOR / STAFF WRITER MEAGHAN BAXTER .................................................................................................. meaghan@vueweekly.com SNOW ZONE EDITOR NICOLE VEERMAN ......................................................................................................... nicole@vueweekly.com LISTINGS GLENYS SWITZER ........................................................................................................ listings@vueweekly.com PRODUCTION MANAGER MIKE SIEK ...........................................................................................................................mike@vueweekly.com PRODUCTION CHARLIE BIDDISCOMBE .............................................................................................. charlie@vueweekly.com SHAWNA IWANIUK .......................................................................................................shawna@vueweekly.com OFFICE MANAGER/ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE ANDY COOKSON ........................................................................................................ acookson@vueweekly.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES BRIDGET GRADY .............................................................................................................. bgrady@vueweekly.com JAMES JARVIS .................................................................................................................... jjarvis@vueweekly.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER MICHAEL GARTH ........................................................................................................... michael@vueweekly.com

AVAILABLE AT OVER 1200 LOCATIONS

E: OFFICE@VUEWEEKLY.COM

CONTRIBUTORS Chelsea Boos, Josef Braun, Rob Brezsny, Saliha Chattoo, Gwynne Dyer, Brian Gibson, Hart Golbeck, Fish Griwkowsky, Matt Jones, Brenda Kerber, Maria Kotovych, Agnieszka Matejko, Stephen Notley, Mel Priestley, Dan Savage, Mimi Williams, Mike Winters, Curtis Wright DISTRIBUTION Shane Bennett, Barrett DeLaBarre, Aaron Getz, Justin Shaw, Wally Yanish

Vue Weekly is available free of charge at well over 1200 locations throughout Edmonton. We are funded solely through the support of our advertisers. Vue Weekly is a division of Postvue Publishing LP (Robert W. Doull, President) and is published every Thursday. Vue Weekly is available free of charge throughout Greater Edmonton and Northern Alberta, limited to one copy per reader. Vue Weekly may be distributed only by Vue Weekly's authorized independent contractors and employees.

No person may, without prior written permission of Vue Weekly, take more than one copy of each Vue Weekly issue.

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40022989.

If undeliverable, return to: Vue Weekly #200, 11230 - 119 St, Edmonton, ab T5G 2X3

W: VUEWEEKLY.COM

TWITTER: @VUEWEEKLY

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

FRONT 9

UP FRONT

VUEPOINT

REBECCA MEDEL

IMPRESS YOUR FRIENDS

// REBECCA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

Peace joke in Oslo When Alfred Nobel's peace prize was first awarded in 1901, it was intended for those who worked the hardest to promote peace between nations, including reducing or ending military action. What does it say when 111 years later, the prize is handed to the entire European Union? It's a slap in Nobel's face.

Some of the EU's states are the biggest exporters of arms in the world: the US and Russia come first, but then come Germany and France.

The United Kingdom, Italy, Sweden and Spain are also on that list (along with Canada). This is not to make a stance against the arms industry, but as the Nobel Prize was intended for those who work for disarmament, it makes no sense to award it to a union that does not work towards that goal.

The reason the committee said it chose the EU this year was for the reconcilation that happened after the world wars—specifically the Second World War—as well as for advancing peace, democracy and human rights. I guess they forgot about all the prejudice and violence directed towards the Roma people, Muslims and the widespread human trafficking occuring right under their noses. Human rights are pretty much non-existent in all of those cases. Then there's the economic crisis that's hit the EU, specifically in Spain and Greece. One quarter of Greece's population is unemployed and many are living in poverty. Many member states have reacted vio-

lently towards anti-government demonstrators in their countries. But reconizing reconcilation efforts after the last big war? I guess, but they're about 70 years too late.

Past recipients of the prize include Albert Schweitzer, Martin Luther King Jr, Mother Theresa, Desmond Tutu, Rigoberta Menchú and Nelson Mandela; these are people who committed their lives to fighting for human rights. In fact, Tutu—whose stance against apartheid in South Africa and work for human rights earned him the prize in 1984—was so incensed that the award was being given to the EU, he wrote a letter of protest to the Nobel committee along with two other former prize laureates.

And on December 9, the day before the prize was awarded, hundreds of protesters marched through Oslo to make it known that they felt the EU was not a worthy recipient.

The prize was accepted on December 10 at Oslo's city hall in Norway—almost ironic, since Norway has twice voted not to join the EU, but that is where it's awarded every year. At least the EU has said it will match the $1.25 million won in prize money and give it to organizations that help children in war zones.

Britain's Prime Minister David Cameron was not present, along with five other country representatives. The UK joined the EU in 1973, but is now strongly considering separating. They could be on to something. V

NEWSROUNDUP

REBECCA MEDEL // REBECCA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

IDLE NO MORE

PIPELINE REVIEW COMPROMISED

// Daniel Peckham, Creative Commons

Many of Canada's Aboriginal Peoples are fed up with what the group Idle No More calls the Harper government's attacks on their rights. On December 10, headed by Idle No More, many First Nations People and their supporters protested in Churchill Square and in other major Canadian cities to protest Bill C-45, which they say is an attack on aboriginal land and water rights. The huge budget bill proposes to change parts of the Indian Act concerning land rights and also the Navigable Waters Act, which would reduce protection from 2.5 million lakes and rivers to 159. First Nations People say the legislation was rushed through without consulting them, which by treaty rights the government is required to do.

During the first week of December, 300 First Nations Chiefs tried to enter the House of Commons to discuss the bill, but were denied

10 FRONT

entry. One First Nations Chief from Attawapiskat in Ontario, Theresa Spence, has gone on a hunger strike until her request for a meeting between Stephen Harper, First Nations leaders and the Queen is met.

The Indian Act was first passed in 1876, and over the years Aboriginal Peoples have had traditions and rights denied such as the Potlatch Law, which was meant to discourage the sharing of wealth and to encourage private property in the hopes of assimilating First Nations People, and Section 141 that banned them from seeking legal counsel. Both were rescinded in 1951, but in 1969 Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau tried to get rid of the Indian Act altogether to encourage more equality. First Nations fought against it, as they felt the Indian Act awards them some distinct rights.

// Mic Stolz, Creative Commons

Alberta's pipeline safety review that took place over the summer was approved by the oil and gas industry before it was released, according to documents obtained by Greenpeace.

Environmental, First Nations and other groups— over 50 of them—urged Premier Alison Redford to commission a third-party review after three oil spills happened in Alberta in May and June: in Rainbow Lake, Red Deer and Elk Lake. Greenpeace infers that the gas industry's interests were being looked out for above environmental safety.

The Energy Resources Conservation Board contracted a third party to lead the review, but Alberta's minister of the environment, Ken Hughes, held meetings with 15 pipeline CEOs and oil and gas industry lobbyists before making the public aware that there would be a review. Industry representatives met with the ERCP and Hughes

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

on July 16, and it was made known to the public there would be a review four days later. One of the letters inviting industry reps to meet with the minister, dated July 11, states, "As you know, the industry operates under world-leading regulatory regime, and has a strong and improving safety record. Some recent incidents and ongoing media attention about energy and environmental issues have given us all the opportunity to reflect not just on how we ensure safety, but also on how we communicate our safety commitment. With this in mind, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you."

The three points to be covered in the review—pipeline integrity management, water crossing practices and emergency response— were decided based on the meeting with the oil and gas CEOs.

NEWS // DRUG TESTS

Workplace war on drugs

Random drug testing doesn't get to the root of the problem

// Eden Munro

A

lthough former US President Richard Nixon coined the term 'War on Drugs' in a 1971 speech about heroin addiction among soldiers serving in Vietnam, it was Ronald Reagan who ramped up the War on Drugs and shifted its focus to the workplace. In his 1991 article, A History of Drug Testing, DL Ackerman recounts the foundation of workplace drug testing in the United States In 1981, a US Navy fighter jet attempting a night landing on the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier failed in its approach.

Blamed on unusually rough seas, the subsequent crash killed 14 crew members and injured 45 others. Autopsies revealed that several members of the flight deck crew tested positive for marijuana. Despite the fact they could not have possibly contributed in any way to the accident, President Reagan reacted with a "Zero Tolerance" drug policy for all armed service personnel, followed by an executive order in 1986 establishing a drug-free workplace for all federal employees. Soon after, the US Department of Transportation turned its attention to transportation workers, including ship captains, pilots and truck drivers.

Private companies began testing following the passage of the 1988 DrugFree Workplace Act, which required recipients of any government money to "maintain a drug-free workplace."

The proportion of private companies with drug-testing programs soared from 21 percent in 1987 to 81 percent in 1996, according to the American Management Association.

The drug testing industry, nurtured by politicians and purveyors of morality alike, is today a multi-billion dollar industry that includes collection sites, laboratories, testing equipment manufacturers, medical review officers, consultants, drug treatment clinics and hired lobbyists. One testing company, Quest, boasts 2011 revenues of $7.5 billion on its website.

While drug testing has become big business, so, too, has its antithesis, the detox industry. A quick Internet search reveals a huge number of products, pharmacies and professionals offering

increasingly ingenious (and often dubious) methods of beating drug tests.

More recent statistics show American employers moving away from drug testing, down from 81 percent in 1996 to 62 percent in 2004, according to the AMA. Truck News reports that the number dropped even further in 2011 to 57 percent.

One reason for this downward trend might be cost. A 1999 American Civil Liberties Union study showed the federal government spent $11.7 million to find 153 drug users among the almost 29 000 employees it tested in 1990.

This worked out to a cost of $77 000 per positive test.

Drug and Alcohol Risk Reduction Pilot Project (DARRPP) is a two-year initiative aiming to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of comprehensive workplace alcohol and drug programs including random workplace testing.

With the exception of the Christian Labour Association of Canada, which is listed as a stakeholder, unions have expressed their opposition to DARRPP, asserting that it constitutes an impermissible intrusion on the privacy rights of employees.

Bob Barnetson, associate professor of labour relations at Athabasca University, suggests DARRPP and employers are missing the point.

"In Alberta's energy and construction industries, employers have adopted a just-in-time approach to the labour force. They bring in workers from far away, pay them well, work them hard and force them to live in isolated camps," he says. "Not surprisingly, there is some use of drugs to cope with the stress of those conditions. Instead of fixing the structural conditions causing drug use, the employers start testing for dope use and disciplining." Barnetson says, adding that he wonders how many workers switch from marijuana

decision on the grievance.

"We are very concerned about the issue of health and safety in our workplace," stated CEP Local 707 President Roland LeFort in a press release. "We want all of our members to arrive home safely at the end of their shift, but we disagree with Suncor that this is the best method to accomplish this important goal."

"We know that random drug and alcohol testing does not improve safety outcomes and that it is clearly an invasion of privacy," continues Lefort.

He says the union strongly supports measures like education and rehabilitation and wants to work with Suncor to implement them.

Things have played out differently here in Canada. Although rulings about Suncor, which claims that three of drug and alcohol testing have been inthe seven deaths that have occurred at consistent, courts and labour tribunals its Fort McMurray oil sands operation have been friendlier toward the concept since 2000 involved workers under the in the West than in the East. Regardless influence of alcohol or drugs, unsucof jurisdiction, courts and adjudicators cessfully appealed the injunction. The have generally drawn the line at rangrievance hearing began Monday. dom drug and alcohol testing. One maLast week, the Supreme Court of jor sticking point has been random drug Canada waded into the debate. In 2006, testing's inability to measure current Irving Pulp and Paper Ltd introduced a impairment. With no proven impact on workplace policy at its Saint John mill safety, courts have been reluctant to that included mandatory random aldeclare such a cohol testing for violation of priemployees holding One major sticking point has been random drug vacy justified. safety-sensitive positesting's inability to measure current impairment.

In Alberta, pretions. One employee, With no proven impact on safety, courts have been employment and a member of CEP reluctant to declare such a violation of privacy post-incident Local 30, was ranjustified. testing are comdomly tested and, mon in the oil although his test patch, despite little research connecting to harder drugs, which can be harder to revealed a blood-alcohol count of zero, drug testing with improved safety on detect. the union filed a policy grievance chalthe job. In a report to Alberta Human One of the first companies to get on lenging the reasonableness of the policy.

Resources and Employment in 2003, board with DARRPP was Suncor, which An arbitration board ruled in favour of the Advisory Committee on Impairment announced it planned to start mandathe union, saying that Irving had failed in the Workplace wrote, "While using tory random drug testing at its oil sands to establish a need for the policy. Irving alcohol or other drugs can lead to unacfacilities in October. The Communicaappealed and a Court of Queen's Bench ceptable risk when job duties are pertions, Energy and Paperworkers Union judge reversed the arbitration board's formed, and while worker testing can (CEP), which represents 3400 workers decision. When the union lost its apdetect the presence of such substances, at Suncor, filed a grievance arguing ranpeal at the New Brunswick Court of Apthis doesn't necessarily mean that the dom drug testing violates its members' peal—which sided with the lower court person within whom a substance is deright to privacy. With the company and quashed the arbitrator's decision— tected is impaired (in the conventional threatening to implement the policy it begged for and was granted leave to sense) at work." before the grievance was heard, CEP appeal to the Supreme Court. applied for and was granted an injuncIn their written submission to the Announced in June, Alberta's new tion until an arbitration board renders a SCC, CEP argued that 25 years of arbi-

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

tral case law rejects the notion that an employer may introduce random alcohol or drug testing without reasonable grounds. Fredericton-based lawyer David Mombourquette, representing CEP, argued a breathalyzer is an involuntary submission of bodily fluids and amounts to a high level of random personal intrusion. He told the court that employers must be reasonable when unilaterally implementing policies, pointing out that the union and company have agreed on various measures to address the perceived problem of workplace impairment, including post-incident testing and testing for reasonable cause.

Nathalie Des Rosiers, the general counsel and executive director for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, which acted as an intervener in the Irving case, told the National Post last week, "We are concerned that this is a new trend in Canada where you have more and more employers who are imposing quite invasive tests and employees have no choice but to comply because their job is at stake," adding that it's not always clear that those tests are necessary.

For their part, DARRPP says it solicited input from human rights and privacy agencies and independent experts, including the Alberta Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner to ensure the pilot addressed social concerns and legal requirements. Asked if the Suncor and Irving cases may cause them to adjust their plans, the project administrator declined to speculate what the court and arbitrator might decide, but admits they are watching the two cases with great interest. "When the decisions are announced," Pat Atkins advised in an email. "We will take these into consideration in terms of our path forward."

Workers and employers across the country hope the Supreme Court, which reserved its decision, will offer some clarity about the future of random mandatory drug and alcohol testing in Canada.

MIMI WILLIAMS

// MIMI@VUEWEEKLY.COM

FRONT 11

EVENTS WEEKLY

COMMENT >> CLIMATE CHANGE

Coasting towards disaster

FAX YOUR FREE LISTINGS TO 780.426.2889 OR EMAIL LISTINGS@VUEWEEKLY.COM DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 3PM

Countries that cause climate change should compensate others degrees, the warming that we have already created will trigger "feedbacks": natural sources of carbon dioxide emissions like melting permafrost WHICH WE CANNOT SHUT OFF. So then, when it's too late, everybody will really want a deal, but just cutting greenhouse gas emissions won't be enough any more. We will need some way to hold the temperature down while we deal with our emissions problem, or else the temperature goes so high that mass starvation sets in. The rule of thumb is that we lose 10 percent of global food production for every rise in average global temperature of 1 C. Burning balls of climate change // creative commons

They made some progress at the annufor assessing the damage or allocatal December round of the internationing the blame, so it will become a al negotiations on controlling climate lawyers' playground of little use to change, held this year in Qatar. It was anybody else. agreed that the countries causing the warming should compensate the ones Besides, the rich countries are gothat suffer the most from it. The prining to be fully committed financially ciple, known as the loss and damage in just covering the cost of their own mechanism, has no numbers attached damages. Consider, for example, the to it, but it's a step forward. The only $60 billion that President Barack step forward, unfortunately.

Obama has just requested from the In the first phase of these talks, US Congress to deal with the devaswhich concluded with the tation left by Superstorm SanKyoto Protocol of 1997, the dy. In practice, there will be emphasis was on "mitigavery little left to compention"; that is, on stopping m sate the poor countries ekly.co vuewe @ e the warming by cutting for their disasters, even n n gwy e human emissions of carif the rich ones have good Gwynn Dyer intentions. bon dioxide and other "greenhouse gases". That made good So if mitigation is a lost cause sense, but they didn't get anywhere. and if adaptation will never keep up Fifteen years later, emissions are with the speed at which the climate still rising, not falling. is going bad and if compensation is a Gradually the emphasis shifted to nice idea whose time will never come, "adaptation." If we can't agree on meawhat is the next stage in these climate sures to stop the average global temtalks? Prayer? Emigration to another perature from going up, can we learn planet? Mass suicide? to live with it? What's the plan for deThere will be a fourth stage to the veloping new crops to withstand the negotiations, but first we will have to droughts and high temperatures that wait until rising temperatures, fallare coming? What's the plan for coping food production and catastrophic ing with massive floods that drown storms shake governments out of river valleys and inundate coastlines? their present lethargy. That probWell, there are no such plans in ably won't happen until quite late most places, so the emphasis has in the decade—and by then, at the shifted again, to compensation. Terricurrent rate of emissions, we will be ble things will happen to poor counwell past the point at which we could tries, so who pays for them? In prinhold the rise in average global temciple, says the new loss and damage perature down to 2 C. mechanism, the rich countries that We will, in fact, be on course for are responsible for the warming pay. three, four or even five degrees C of But the "mechanism" has no method warming, because beyond plus two

R DYEIG HT

STRA

There probably is a way to stop the warming from passing plus-2 C and triggering the feedbacks, during the decades it will take to get our emissions back down. It's called "geo-engineering": direct human intervention in the climate system. Our greenhouse gas emissions are an inadvertent example of geo-engineering that is pushing the climate in the wrong direction.

Another, deliberate kind of geo-engineering may be needed to stop it.

Geo-engineering to hold the heat down is quite possible, though the undesirable side effects could be very large. The biggest problem is that it's relatively cheap: dozens of governments could afford to do it—and just one government, acting alone, could do it to the whole atmosphere.

So the fourth phase of the climate talks, probably starting late this decade, will be about when it is time to start geo-engineering and what techniques should be used and who controls the process. They won't agree on that either, so things will drag on further until some government, desperate to save its people from starvation, decides to do it alone, without global agreement. That could cause a major war, of course.

So we had better hope that neutral observers like the fossil fuel industries are right in insisting that global warming is a fraud. Maybe all those scientists really are making it up just to get more money in research grants. That would be a happy ending, so fingers crossed. V Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose articles are published in 45 countries.

Pilates Equipment

from rehabilitation to serious cross-training...

Gravity Straps & Kettlebars

Find your Core Connection HERE!

Pilates Matwork

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

12 FRONT

CANADIAN BREWHOUSE–Camrose • 6608-48 Ave, Camrose • Bring in 2013 with Laughs presenting Dave Stawnichy, PJ. McGuire, and Marvin Krawcyzk • Dec 31 • $30

CENTURY CASINO • 13103 Fort Rd •

780.481.9857 • Open amateur night every Thu, 7:30pm

COMEDY FACTORY • Gateway

Entertainment Centre, 34 Ave, Calgary Tr • Leif Skyving; Dec 13-15 • Dennis Ross; Dec 20-22 • Tim Koslo; Dec 28-29

COMIC STRIP • Bourbon St, WEM •

780.483.5999 • Wed-Fri, Sun 8pm; Fri-Sat 10:30pm • Hit or Miss Mondays: 8pm • Pete Correale; until Dec 16 • Rob Little; Dec 19-23 • Theo Von; Dec 26-31

DRUID • 11606 Jasper Ave • 780.710.2119

• Comedy night open stage hosted by Lars Callieou • Every Sun, 9pm

FILTHY MCNASTY'S • 10511-82 Ave •

780.996.1778 • Stand Up Sundays: Standup comedy night every Sun with a different headliner every week; 9pm; no cover

JUBILEE AUDITORIUM • 11455-87 Ave • 780.427.2760 • jubileeauditorium.com • Gerry Dee's Life After Teaching • Dec 28, 7:30pm • $84-$154 at TicketMaster METRO CINEMA • 8712-109 St • Local

comedian Jon Mick's celebratory Saint Mick’s Muletide Extravaganza with music

by Renny Wilson and Liam Trimble, film clips, Capital City Burlesque and more • Thu, Dec 13, 7pm (door) • $10-$12 at Blackbyrd Myoozic, Permanent Records, door

NORTHMOUNT COMMUNITY HALL • 9208-140 Ave • Connie’s Comedy:

featuring Sterling Scott, Trixx, Doug Mutai, Jean Paul • Dec 22, 8pm (door), 8:30pm (show) • $20 (door)

OVERTIME PUB • 4211-106 St • Open

mic comedy anchored by a professional MC, new headliner each week • Every Tue • Free

ROUGE LOUNGE • 10111-117 St • Sterling Scott every Wed, 9pm

RUMORS ULTRA LOUNGE • 8230

Gateway Blvd • Every Thu Neon Lights and Laughter with host Sterling Scott and five comedians and live DJ TNT; 8:30pm

VAULT PUB • 8214-175 St • Comedy with Liam Creswick and Steve Schulte • Every Mon, at 9:30pm WINSPEAR CENTRE • Sir Winston

Churchill Sq • Ron James • Sun, Dec 16, 8pm • $53

WUNDERBAR • 8120-101 St,

780.436.2286 • Comedy every 2nd Mon

Jan 7 - March 25 www.integrationpilates.com •

P O W E R

•

F L E X I B I L I T Y

•

GROUPS/CLUBS/MEETINGS AIKIKAI AIKIDO CLUB • 10139-87 Ave, Old Strathcona Community League • Japanese Martial Art of Aikido • Every Tue 7:30-9:30pm; Thu 6-8pm AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL EDMONTON • 8307-109 St • edmontonam-

nesty.org • Meet the 4th Tue each month, 7:30pm (no meetings in Jul, Aug, and Dec) E: amnesty@edmontonamnesty.org for more info • Free

ARGENTINE TANGO DANCE AT FOOT NOTES STUDIO • Foot Notes Dance Studio (South side), 9708-45 Ave • 780.438.3207 • virenzi@shaw.ca • Join Vincenzo and Ida Renzi every Friday at Foot Notes Dance Studio for an evening of authentic Argentine tango • Every Fri, 8pm-midnight • $15 (per person)

AWA 12-STEP SUPPORT GROUP

• Braeside Presbyterian Church bsmt, N. door, 6 Bernard Dr, Bishop St, Sir Winston Churchill Ave, St Albert • For adult children of alcoholic and dysfunctional families • Every Mon, 7:30pm

BRAIN TUMOUR PEER SUPPORT GROUP • Woodcroft Branch

Library, 13420-114 Ave • braintumour.ca • 1.800.265.5106 ext. 234 • Support group for brain tumour survivors and their families and caregivers. Must be 18 or over • 3rd Tue every month; 7-8:45pm • Free

DROP-IN MEDITATION CLASSES • Sherwood Park Community Centre (Mon); Amitabha Centre, 9550-87 St (Tue, Fri) • info@meditationedmonton.org • Every Mon, Tue 7-8:30pm and Fri 10-11:30am EDMONTON NATURE CLUB •

King's University College, 9125-50 St • 780.459.6389 • Christmas Bird Countin' around the world with speaker Dr. Richard Knapton • Fri, Dec 14, 7pm (refreshments), 7:30pm (meeting) • Admission by donation

EDMONTON NEEDLECRAFT GUILD • Avonmore United Church Basement, 82 Ave, 79 St • edmNeedlecraftGuild.org • Classes/workshops, exhibitions, guest speakers, stitching groups for those interested in textile arts • Meet the 2nd Tue each month, 7:30pm FABULOUS FACILITATORS TOASTMASTERS CLUB • 2nd

Floor Canada Place, 9700 Jasper Ave • 780.467.6013, l.witzke@shaw.ca • fabulousfacilitators.toastmastersclubs.org • Can you think of a career that does not require communication • Every Tue, 12:05-1pm

FERTILITY AWARENESS CHARTING CIRCLE MEETING • Cha Island

Tea Co, 10332-81 Ave • faccedmonton@ gmail.com • Learn about menstrual cycle charting and share your personal experiences in a supportive group environment • 1st Mon of the month from Oct-Apr, 6:308:30pm • $5 (suggested donation)

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH EDMONTON • 10031-109 St • fbcedmonton.ca • 780.422.2214 • Longest Night Service of Prayer and Hope: A service for anyone who finds Christmas a difficult season; Dec 17, 7pm • Carols and Candlelight Christmas Eve Service; Dec 24, 11pm

Edmonton Studio 10565-114 Street Sherwood Park Studio #100, 2693 Broadmoor Blvd.

Schedules & Registration at

Personalized & Rehabilitative Training S T R E N G T H

BRIXX BAR • 10030-102 St • 780.428.1099 • Troubadour Tuesdays monthly with comedy and music

next Session:

Cardio and Core (Bosu+)

C O R E

COMEDY

ZEN LOUNGE • 12923-97 St • The Ca$h Prize comedy contest hosted by Matt Alaeddine and Andrew Iwanyk • Every Tue, 8pm • No cover

B A L A N C E

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

ph. 780-421-9853 www.integrationpilates.com

FOOD ADDICTS • St Luke's Anglican Church, 8424-95 Ave • 780.465.2019, 780.634.5526 • Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA), free 12-Step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating, and bulimia • Meetings every Thu, 7pm HEALING CIRCLE • Call 780.570.0475

for location • spiritualawakeningcentre.com • Begins with a guided meditation moving into an affirmative state where healing on all levels occurs • Every Wed, 7-8pm

HOME–Energizing Spiritual Community for Passionate Living

• Garneau/Ashbourne Assisted Living Place, 11148-84 Ave • Home: Blends music, drama, creativity and reflection on sacred texts to energize you for passionate living • Every Sun, 3-5pm

LOTUS QIGONG • 780.477.0683 • Downtown • Practice group meets every Thu

MADELEINE SANAM FOUNDATION • Faculté St Jean, Rm 3-18 • 780.490.7332 • Program for HIV-AID’S prevention, treatment and harm reduction in French, English and other African languages • 3rd and 4th Sat, 9am-5pm each month • Free (member)/$10 (membership); pre-register

mp3 boombox, bundle up, and join us for Phil Kline's 45 minute interactive sound walk through the streets of the Old Strathcona • Sat, Dec 22, 5-6pm • Free, all ages

1st Mon every month, 7:30pm • Suggested donation of $3

780.474.8240, E: Tuff@shaw.ca • Every Wed, 1:30-3:30pm

QUEER

GLBT SPORTS AND RECREATION

VEGETARIANS OF ALBERTA •

AFFIRM SUNNYBROOK–Red Deer

Riverdale Community League • Holiday Potluck: Bring a vegan, raw vegan or vegetarian holiday dish to serve at least 6 people (plus plate, cutlery, serving spoon, cup). Hot apple cider will be provided • Dec 16, 5:30pm • $3 (member)/$5 (nonmember) • With Special Guest: Victoria Laine, RHN signing copies of her new book Real Life Vegan

WASKAHEGAN TRAIL HIKES • waskahegantrail.ca • 780.467.9572; Hike along the North Saskatchewan River from Kennedale Ravine to Sunridge; meet at Argyll McDonalds, Argyll Rd, 81 St; Dec 16, 9:45am-2:45pm • Hike through river and ravine trails of Devon; meet at Argyll McDonalds, Argyll Rd, 81 St; 780.487.0645; Dec 30, 9:45am-2:45pm • Guests are welcome. Annual membership is $20

• Sunnybrook United Church, Red Deer • 403.347.6073 • Affirm welcome LGBTQ people and their friends, family, and allies meet the 2nd Tue, 7pm, each month

BISEXUAL WOMEN'S COFFEE GROUP • A social group for bi-curious

and bisexual women every 2nd Tue each month, 8pm • groups.yahoo.com/group/ bwedmonton

BUDDYS NITE CLUB • 11725B Jasper Ave

• 780.488.6636 • Tue with DJ Arrow Chaser, free pool all night; 9pm (door); no cover • Wed with DJ Dust’n Time; 9pm (door); no cover • Thu: Men’s Wet Underwear Contest, win prizes, hosted by Drag Queen DJ Phon3 Hom3; 9pm (door); no cover before 10pm • Fri Dance Party with DJ Arrow Chaser; 8pm (door); no cover before 10pm • Sat: Feel the rhythm with DJ Phon3 Hom3; 8pm (door); no cover before 10pm

• teamedmonton.ca • Co-ed Bellydancing: bellydancing@teamedmonton.ca • Bootcamp: Garneau Elementary, 10925-87 Ave. at 7pm; bootcamp@teamedmonton.ca • Bowling: Ed's Rec Centre, WEM, Tue 6:45pm; bowling@teamedmonton.ca • Curling: Granite Curling Club; 780.463.5942 • Running: Kinsmen; running@teamedmonton.ca • Spinning: MacEwan Centre, 109 Street and 104 Ave; spin@teamedmonton.ca • Swimming: NAIT pool, 11762-106 St; swimming@teamedmonton.ca • Volleyball: every Tue, 7-9pm; St. Catherine School, 10915-110 St; every Thu, 7:30-9:30pm at Amiskiwiciy Academy, 101 Airport Rd

G.L.B.T.Q SENIORS GROUP • S.A.G.E

Bldg, Craftroom, 15 Sir Winston Churchill Sq • 780.474.8240 • Meeting for gay seniors, and for any seniors who have gay family members and would like some guidance • Every Thu, 1-4pm • Info: E: tuff @shaw.ca

MEDITATION • Strathcona Library •

meditationedmonton.org • Weekly meditation drop-in; every Tue, 7-8:30pm

MILL CREEK MORNING AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP • Sundrenched Room

• Meet every Wed: Open to anyone who has been affected by somebody else's drinking; 10-11am • Dinner/Presentation: last Wed each month, 6:30-9pm; Dinner and Speaker: $12 (member), $17 (nonmember); Speaker only: $5; pre-register hltaa.org/Events.php

Because you’ve been very good all year.

NORTHERN ALBERTA WOOD CARVERS ASSOCIATION • Dug-

gan Community Hall, 3728-106 St • 780.458.6352, 780.467.6093 • nawca.ca • Meet every Wed, 6:30pm

OCCUPY EDMONTON GENERAL ASSEMBLY • Grant MacEwan City

Centre Cafeteria, 10600-104 Ave • oc.yeg. info@gmail.com • A leaderless space where everyone is welcome to organize and/or assist with all forms of Edmonton based non-violent activism • Every Tue from 6:30-8:30pm & Sat from 2-4pm

PARKLAND'S SEASONAL OPEN HOUSE • Parkland Institute, 11045

Saskatchewan Dr • parklandinstitute.ca • An evening of seasonal cheer, catching up with Parkland staff, friends and supporters, a celebration of our recent successes and our community • Fri, Dec 14, 5-9pm

SHERWOOD PARK WALKING GROUP + 50 • Meet inside Millennium

Place, Sherwood Place • Weekly outdoor walking group; starts with a 10-min discussion, followed by a 30 to 40-min walk through Centennial Park, a cool down and stretch • Every Tue, 8:30am • $2/session (goes to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta)

SOCIETY OF EDMONTON ATHEISTS • Centennial Rm, (basement) Stanley

A. Milner Library • Monthly roundtable 1st Tue each month • edmontonatheists.ca; E: info@edmontonatheists.ca

SUGARSWING DANCE CLUB • Or-

ange Hall, 10335-84 Ave or Pleasantview Hall, 10860-57 Ave • 780.604.7572 • Swing Dance at Sugar Foot Stomp: beginner lesson followed by dance every Sat, 8pm (door) at Orange Hall or Pleasantview Hall

TOASTMASTERS CLUB • Queen

Alexandra Community League, 10425 University Ave (north door, stairs to the left) • Meet every Tue, 7-9pm except last Tue each month. Help develop confidence in public speaking and leadership • Contact: Antonio Balce, 780.463.5331

UNSILENT NIGHT EDMONTON •

Meet at Gazebo Park, 83 Ave, 104 St • unsilentnight.com • Get out your CD, cassette,

MAKING WAVES SWIMMING CLUB • geocities.com/makingwaves_edm • Recreational/competitive swimming. Socializing after practices • Every Tue/Thu

PRIDE CENTRE OF EDMONTON • Pride Centre of Edmonton, 10608-105 Ave • 780.488.3234 • A safe, welcoming, and non-judgemental drop-in space, support programs and resources offered for members of the GLBTQ community, their families and friends • Daily: Community drop-in; support and resources. Queer library: borrowing privileges: Tue-Fri 12-9pm, Sat 2-6:30pm, closed Sun-Mon; Queer HangOUT (a.k.a. QH) youth drop-in: Tue-Fri 3-8pm, Sat 2-6:30pm, youth@pridecentreofedmonton.org • Counselling: Free, short-term by registered counsellors every Wed, 5:30-8:30pm, info/ bookings: 780.488.3234 • Knotty Knitters: Knit and socialize in safe, accepting environment, all skill levels welcome; every Wed 6-8pm • QH Game Night: Meet people through board game fun; every Thu 6-8pm • QH Craft Night: every Wed, 6-8pm • QH Anime Night: Watch anime; every Fri, 6-8pm • Movie Night: Open to everyone; 2nd and 4th Fri each month, 6-9pm • Women’s Social Circle: Social support group for female-identified persons +18 years in the GLBT community; new members welcome; 2nd and 4th Thu, 7-9pm each month; andrea@pridecentreofedmonton.org • Men Talking with Pride: Support and social group for gay and bisexual men to discuss current issues; every Sun 7-9pm; robwells780@hotmail.com • TTIQ: a support and information group for all those who fall under the transgender umbrella and their family/supporters; 3rd Mon, 7-9pm, each month • HIV Support Group: Support and discussion group for gay men; 2nd Mon, 7-9pm, each month; huges@shaw.ca PRIMETIMERS/SAGE GAMES • Unitar-

ian Church, 10804-119 St • 780.474.8240 • Every 2nd and last Fri each Month, 7-10:30pm

ST PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH • 11526-76 Ave • 780.436.1555 • People of all sexual orientations are welcome • Every Sun (10am worship) WOMONSPACE • 780.482.1794 • wom-

onspace.ca, womonspace@gmail.com • A Non-profit lesbian social organization for Edmonton and surrounding area. Monthly activities, newsletter, reduced rates included with membership. Confidentiality assured

Plus get FREE winter tires and $0 first payment in your stocking!*

ORGANIZATION FOR BIPOLAR AFFECTIVE DISORDER (OBAD) • Grey Nuns Hospital, Rm 0651, 780.451.1755; Group meets every Thu, 7-9pm • Free

• Confidential peer support to people living with HIV • Tue, 7-9pm: Support group • Daily dropin, peer counselling

DAN HELLER

Email us to qualify for an additional $100 on the New Southgate Volkswagen Customer Reward Card!

Elf internet specialist info@southgatevw.ca

ANDY DIMOND Elf internet specialist info@southgatevw.ca

southgatevw.ca

780.438.8888

*cannot be combined with any other offer *come see us at Southgate Volkswagen for details.

Shop indoors, year round.

WILD ROSE ANTIQUE COLLECTORS SOCIETY • Delwood Community

Hall, 7517 Delwood Rd • wildroseantiquecollectors.ca • Collecting and researching items from various periods in the history of Edmonton. Presentations after club business. Visitors welcome • Meets the 4th Mon of every month (except Jul & Dec), 7:30pm

WOMEN IN BLACK • In Front of the Old Strathcona Farmers' Market • Silent vigil the 1st and 3rd Sat, 10-11am, each month, stand in silence for a world without violence

Y TOASTMASTERS CLUB • Strath-

cona Legion, 9020-51 Ave • Meet every Tue, 7-9pm; helps members develop confidence in public speaking and leadership • Info: T: Antonio Balce at 780.463.5331

LECTURES/PRESENTATIONS GREAT EXPEDITIONS • St Luke’s An-

glicanChurch, 8424-95 Ave • 780.469.3270 •

EDMONTON PRIME TIMERS (EPT)

• Unitarian Church of Edmonton, 10804119 St • A group of older gay men who have common interests meet the 2nd Sun, 2:30pm, for a social period, short meeting and guest speaker, discussion panel or potluck supper.

Special interest groups meet for other social activities throughout the month. E: edmontonpt@yahoo.ca

EPLC FELLOWSHIP PAGAN STUDY GROUP • Pride Centre of Edmonton, 10608-

105 Ave • 780.488.3234 • eplc.webs.com • Free year long course; Family circle 3rd Sat each month • Everyone welcome

FLASH NIGHT CLUB • 10018-105 St •

780.969.9965 • Thu Goth + Industrial Night: Indust:real Assembly with DJ Nanuck; 10pm (door); no cover • Triple Threat Fridays: DJ Thunder, Femcee DJ Eden Lixx • DJ Suco beats every Sat • E: vip@flashnightclub.com

G.L.B.T.Q SAGE BOWLING CLUB •

ILLUSIONS SOCIAL CLUB • Pride Centre, 10608-105 ave • 780.387.3343 • groups.yahoo. com/group/edmonton_illusions • Crossdressers meet 2nd Fri each month, 8:30pm INSIDE/OUT • U of A Campus •

Campus-based organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-identified and queer (LGBTQ) faculty, graduate student, academic, straight allies and support staff • 3rd Thu each month (fall/winter terms): Speakers Series. E: kwells@ualberta.ca

JUNCTION BAR AND EATERY • 10242-

106 St • 780.756.5667 • junctionedmonton.com • Open Tues-Sat: Community bar with seasonal patio • Beat the clock Tue • WINGSANITY Wed, 5-10pm • Free pool Tue and Wed • Karaoke Wed, 9-12pm • Fri Steak Night, 5-9pm • Frequent special events: drag shows, leather nights, beer bashes, girls nights • DJs every Fri and Sat, 10pm

LIVING POSITIVE • 404, 10408-124 St • ed-

WOODYS VIDEO BAR • 11723 Jasper Ave • 780.488.6557 • Mon: Amateur Strip Contest; prizes with Shawana • Tue: Kitchen 3-11pm • Wed: Karaoke with Tizzy 7pm-1am; Kitchen 3-11pm • Thu: Free pool all night; kitchen 3-11pm • Fri: Mocho Nacho Fri: 3pm (door), kitchen open 3-11pm

SPECIAL EVENTS CBC TURKEY DRIVE FOR EDMONTON FOOD BANK • cbc.ca/edmonton

• Turkey Drive: Thu, Dec 13-20 • Free entertainment on the CBC Centre Stage Mon-Fri, 11:45am-1pm • 5km fun run/walk: Dec 18, 7:30am, $20 to enter (proceeds to the Food Bank) • Wrap on Radio Active: at CBC: Dec 20, 3-6pm for live entertainment and to celebrate the last day of the drive

DANCE MOVES 15TH ANNUAL FOOD BANK CLASSIC FUNDRAISER •

City Hall Main Foyer • dancemoves.ca • Dance Movers from all over Edmonton, St. Albert and Sherwood Park will strut their stuff to show you what they have learned in the past 10 weeks of dance/fitness classes • Dec 19, 7-9pm

DEEP WINTER SONG • SouthminsterSteinhauer United Church, 10740-19 Ave • A Mystical Evening of Music and Story: acoustic musical presentation • Sun, Dec 16, 7:30pm • $20 (adv at Earth's General Store, deepwintersong2012.eventbrite.com); $25 (door)/$15 (youth/low income)/free (child 9yrs and under) • facebook.com/events/379776768772787/ FACE OFF AGAINST HUNGER LUNCHEON • Hall D, Shaw Conference Centre

• Luncheon, music by Kira Hladun, a live and silent auction • Fri, Dec 14, 11:30am-1pm • $1,000 (table of 10)/$100 (per ticket) in support of the Christmas Bureau

mlivingpositive.ca • 1.877.975.9448/780.488.5768

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

FRONT 13

FILM

REVUE // MIYAZAKI

Heroines and parables Ruminating on a pair of Studio Ghibli's legendary releases

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Fri, Dec 14 – Sun, Dec 16 Howl's Moving Castle Tue, Dec 18 (7 pm) Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind Directed by Hayao Miyazaki Metro Cinema at the Garneau "You humans always make a mess of things" — Spirited Away (2001)

T

he signature of cinema's greatest living animauteur, Hayao Miyazaki, swoops and dips, has ambiguous characters and ends with a feminist flourish. His team's sketches and pa-

per-preparations, metamorphosed into cels of colour and light, offer dazzling scenes of flight and shimmering water worlds, populated by misguided adults and fiercely independent girls.

The pulsating paradox, as Metro Cinema's Miyazaki retrospective reminds us, is that a world so beautiful as this contains constant concerns about its erasure. Miyazaki's films are fantastic eco-parables for the generations inheriting their parents' messes.

The writer-director's adaptation of his manga, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984; 4 stars), begins

Rain? Snow?

Dress up? Dress down?

Blundstone boots take it all in stride. Try all-season, all-terrain, all-world Blundstone boots.

Laces? Who n| eeds ’em?

The Chisel Toe available in Brown, Black, Steel and Crazy Horse Brown Gravity Pope 10442 Whyte Ave 439-1637 Soft Moc Several locations in malls, softmoc.com Kunitz Shoes 2 locations, kunitzshoes.ca Wener Shoes 10322 Jasper Avenue 422-2718 Red Wing Shoes 2 locations, redwingshoes.ca Campers Village 2 locations, campers-village.com

14 FILM

blundstone.ca

1000 years hence. Kingdoms are seemingly swallowed up by a "toxic jungle": spores, shells and large insects (including caterpillar-like trilobites called Ohm) teem in grottos and caverns. Nausicaä, charming, defiant and compassionate, is a redhead aviatrix who channels the film's overwhelming power—a marveling, combined with wonder and respect, at the natural world, far more vast and complex than we realize. But, grounded in vicious cross-kingdom warfare and bogged down in shortterm schemes of destruction, the men around her remain bent on mastery of each other, not learning from nature. Thanks to some experimenting, the pacifist princess Nausicaä's even discovered that it's not the "jungle" that's poisoned, but the soil. And then she finds a clean-air, underground world ...

The score can get a bit synthycheesy and the story (typically complex) is guilty of a few conventional comic-strip moments. But the hero's pluck and the film's amazing world— something like the animated Fantastic Planet (1973) crossed with nature-doc Microcosmos—easily carry the film.

Nausicaä's name is taken from the female of fascination in the Odyssey, but she's also a humbled Icarus and a Darwinian Messiah. Miyazaki's Western European valleys and towns (with windmills), his Baba Yaga-like old woman out of Russian folklore (Obaba here, Yubaba in Spirited Away), and his eye for soaring flight (Miyazaki's 2013 film is about the Zero Fighter plane's designer) are all here, too.

The more fairy-tale-ish, Oz-like Howl's Moving Castle (2004; 4 stars) opens in a city of cobblestones and shops, trams and bonnets. Sophie makes hats, but, after work one day, she's literally swept off her feet by a stranger. The flying wizard's Howl, being pursued by the Witch of the Waste, who punishes Sophie for her chance meeting by turning her into an old woman (the curse reflects Sophie's sense of herself as dowdy).

Rather wonderfully, Sophie becomes calm and cunning and circumspect about her aged new self. Soon, thanks to a pogo-ing, turnip-headed scarecrow, she finds herself a home—the four-legged, steaming, creaking, metal-coated castle that wanders the mountain meadows. Then Sophie discovers the castle's door opens into different corners of the kingdom ...

Labour unites Sophie and the castle's fire-demon Calcifer—Sophie scrubs and cleans as Calcifer burns wood and fuels the clanking home's moves. (In a Sisyphean scene even better than Chihiro's climb up the filthy side of a tub in Spirited Away, Sophie and the obese Witch achingly, puffingly clamber up many flights of stairs to a palace.) And the old Sophie is a fascinating mix of kindness and tough love.

The shift from Sophie, relaxing by an alpine lake, to Howl flying through the soot-black clouds above burning villages is one of the most startling cuts in Miyazaki's oeuvre. This spectre of hellish war, with bomb-dropping airships blimping along overhead, suggests a steampunked, World War One-era Alsace (as Miyazaki's noted);

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

it's matched by the bird-morphing Howl's internal darkness, his melancholy seeping shadows from the walls and spreading slime over his body.

Spells are manifestations of emotions and magic can be a self-binding retreat from maturity for the selfish, cowardly Howl even as Sophie cleans and cares for others, slowly realizing her inner beauty.

The castle's an astounding sight and much of Up, with an old person in a moving house, can be seen as homage to this film; many Pixar directors admire Miyazaki (who nodded back with the bouncing lamp in Spirited Away). It's true the story, from Diana Wynne Jones' 1986 book, can seem more parts than sum, more enjoyable sequence-by-sequence. (The ending's a little disjointed, too.) But, room by room, Howl's Moving Castle is also the animauteur's coziest, most romantic film.

And there are more tantalizing tensions: the director's most domestic yet most transporting film; the castle's reworked and rebuilt but Sophie stays true to heart and hearth; grassy idylls are threatened by industrial warfare; unstable homes are held together only by the family within, here a motley assortment of unrelated people who simply need each other.

It's that sense of community working together—like Studio Ghibli's team of animators making Miyazaki's latest masterpiece—that shines through the sludge of waste and warfare threatening Nausicaä and Sophie, happily ever the staunch, stubborn heroines.

BRIAN GIBSON

// BRIAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

REVUE // CRIME

REVUE // HOLIDAY HORROR

Killer Joe

Silent Night

That's mister killer to you

Sun, Dec 15 – Thu, Dec 20 Directed by William Friedkin Metro Cinema at the Garneau



C

hris (Emile Hirsch) is a young hoodlum with big ideas and even bigger debts to dangerous men. He's cursed with a moronic father (Thomas Haden Church), a small-time slattern schemer for a stepmother (Gina Gershon) and a savant-like adult nymphette for a sister (Juno Temple), who becomes the object of strange desire for the final member of our makeshift clan. Killer Joe Cooper

(Matthew McConaughey) is a detective and contract killer from Dallas.

He comes to this Texas backwater to assassinate Chris's coke-dealing mother, a character never depicted but much reviled. When it turns out that Chris can't come up with payment for the matricidal hit, Joe takes Chris's sister as collateral.

The ingredients for Killer Joe, the second of Pulitzer Prize-winner Tracy Letts' plays to be adapted by director William Friedkin, are about as lurid as any going. The characters range from pathetic to manifestations of some hot 'n' sizzly

kind of primal evil. You can't take your eyes off of them. Provided you have the stomach for the sootblack humour and inventive use of fried chicken, they're funny as hell.

The sharply constructed story, a tract on the perils of inbreeding, feels like Sam Shepard channeling Jim Thompson; the direction is bracing and clean; the performances are fully committed, emboldened by outrageousness, figures from Greek tragedy mired in the murk of Southern gothic grotesque.

JOSEF BRAUN

// JOSEF@VUEWEEKLY.COM

REVUE // SOCCER

Playing For Keeps Now playing Directed by Gabriele Muccino



H

ere's the lump of coal for the Christmas movie season. Playing For Keeps is a sloppy, soppy mess of a sports movie-meets-relationship drama. In a heroically selfish display of corporate teamwork, a certain German sportswear company, a certain Italian sportscar company and a certain American sports network pimp out Gerard Butler to the soccer-mom demographic. (Although Butler did it to himself, too—he's an executive producer.) At first, the movie lightly mocks silly suburban shenanigans, then remembers to ogle all the massive homes and leather-interior cars.

George Dryer (Butler) is a washedup ex-soccer pro coaching his young son's soccer team, bedding or nearly bedding various vapid moms (Judy Greer, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Uma Thurman) of the players and trying to get back onside with his ex-wife (Jessica Biel, who tries to rise above but was apparently contractually obligated to gaze hopefully or cry in every scene). An own-goal shambles of bland characterization, comic shtick, exes-still-in-love clichés and lazy im-

What do you mean, all of the Santas are behind me?

Fri, Dec 14 (9:30 pm) Directed by Steven C Miller Metro Cinema at the Garneau



A

murderous Santa descends on the sleepy little town of Crier, Wisconsin during Christmas Eve celebrations, and starts killing his way through the naughty list—bratty kids, cheating lovers, pervy priest, soft-core pornographers—while a couple of cops try to wrap the case.

So it's pretty safe to say that 2012's Silent Night, a remake of the 1984 Silent Night, Deadly Night in name only, really, takes the cynic's approach to the holidays: lines like "Sin is the beating heart of Christmas" and "Christmas can fuck you up" spice the script, while Santa's vaguely moral compass guides his killer hand via the usual holiday complaints: nobody really cares about the true meaning of the season.

Malcolm McDowell's town sheriff is the highlight here, sporting

some increasingly wacky oneliners—"don't put avocado on the burger! Simple is always best," he says about the murder investigation—while the rest of the ableif-uneven cast members wander their way through the holiday massacre at hand. Jamie King's semi-damaged detective, the lead here, seems capable of shouldering the basic horror movie load.

The spirit of this Silent is more about decking the halls with buckets o' blood than offering up much in the way of scares or suspense.

But hey, maybe a straightforward blood-romp is exactly what you asked for this holiday season. In that case, Santa's gonna be good to you. And this Dedfest screening is wrapping it together with a short by local horror buffs Astron Six, which puts a funny, parodic spin on both the holiday season and Silence of the Lambs.

PAUL BLINOV

// PAUL@VUEWEEKLY.COM

Butler always plays for keeps

plausibilities, this is like a bad Coen brothers comedy played straight. It does offer an occasionally delinquent notion of parenting—George teaches good ol' Virginian kids to say "wanker" and lets his son steer the Berlusconi-

mobile on the open road. Otherwise, Playing For Keeps plays down to the ugliest American stereotype of soccer—dull to the point of brain-death.

BRIAN GIBSON

// BRIAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

FILM 15

STILL SHOWING

FILM WEEKLY FRI, DEC 14 - THU, DEC 20, 2012

CHABA THEATRE–JASPER 6094 Connaught Dr Jasper 780.852.4749

THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) Real D DAILY 800; SAT-SUN 1:30 RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Real D FRI-SAT 7:00, 9:00; SUN-THU 8:00; SAT-SUN 1:30

DUGGAN CINEMA–CAMROSE 6601-48 Ave Camrose 780.608.2144

Stories We Tell Princess Theatre

 Sparked by Sarah Polley's longtime suspicion that her father was not really her father, her third feature as director, which has been called a documentary for lack of a better term, feels like the culmination of her preceding films. It's rich, suspenseful, funny, smart and heartbreaking.

THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes DAILY 6:30, 7:30, 9:45; SAT-SUN, THU 1:30; SAT -SUN 2:00 RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) DAILY 7:10; SAT-SUN 2:10 TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for children) DAILY 9:20 SKYFALL (14A violence) FRI-TUE 8:00; SAT-SUN 1:45 THE GUILT TRIP (STC) WED-THU 7:20, 9:25; THU 2:30 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) DAILY 7:00PM 9:15; SAT-SUN, THU 2:00

CINEMA CITY MOVIES 12 5074-130 Ave 780.472.9779

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA (PG) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:05; 3D: DAILY 3:40, 6:55, 9:15 ICE AGE: CONTINENTAL DRIFT (G) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:40; 3D: DAILY 4:20, 7:10, 9:25 HERE COMES THE BOOM (PG violence) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:35, 4:05, 6:50, 9:20; MON, WED-THU 4:05, 6:50, 9:20

The Sessions Princess Theatre

 The Sessions is a sweet, moving work that approaches sex, disabled or otherwise, with a very rare combination of maturity, kindness and insight. It's also a lovely duet between two generous and talented actors.

THE GUILT TRIP (STC) No passes WED-THU 12:10, 2:35, 5:00, 7:45, 10:15 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes FRI-SAT 1:15, 2:00, 5:00, 5:50, 8:45, 9:30; SUN 12:00, 2:15, 3:45, 6:00, 7:30, 9:45; MON-THU 12:20, 2:25, 4:05, 6:10, 7:50, 9:55; 3D: HIGH FRAME RATE ULTRAAVX: FRI-SUN 11:30, 3:15, 7:00, 10:45; MON-THU 3:00, 6:45, 10:25; 3D: FRI-SAT 11:00, 12:00, 2:45, 3:45, 6:30, 7:30, 10:15, 11:15; SUN 11:00, 12:30, 2:45, 4:15, 6:30, 8:00, 10:15; MON-THU 12:00, 12:40, 1:30, 4:25, 5:40, 8:10, 9:25 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) FRI-SUN 11:25, 2:05, 4:40, 7:40, 10:35; MON-WED 1:50, 4:30, 7:10, 9:45; THU 1:50, 4:30, 10:05 SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (14A coarse language)

PITCH PERFECT (PG language may offend, crude content, not recommended for young children) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:30, 4:28, 7:25, 9:50; MON, WED-THU 4:28, 7:25, 9:50

KILLING THEM SOFTLY (14A course language, brutal violence, not recommended for young children) FRI-SUN 1:40, 4:25, 6:55, 9:25; MON, THU 2:05, 10:20; TUE-WED 2:05, 4:50, 7:55, 10:20

THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS (18A gory violence) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:50, 4:30, 7:20, 10:00; MON, WED-THU 4:30, 7:20, 10:00

ANNA KARENINA (PG mature subject matter) Closed Captioned FRI-SUN 12:20, 3:20, 6:20, 9:35; MON-THU 12:50, 3:45, 6:40, 9:50

JAB TAK HAI JAAN (PG coarse language) Hindi W/E.S.T. FRI-SUN, TUE 1:00, 4:30, 8:00; MON, WED-THU 4:30, 8:00

LINCOLN (PG violence, language may offend, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned FRI 11:45, 3:10, 6:35, 9:55; SAT 6:35, 9:55; SUN 3:10, 6:35, 9:55; MON-TUE 2:15, 6:35, 10:00

24/7 IN LOVE (PG sexually suggestive scenes) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:25, 4:15, 7:05, 9:50; MON, WED-THU 4:15, 7:05, 9:50 TALAASH (STC) Hindi W/E.S.T. FRI-SUN, TUE 1:10, 3:55, 7:15, 9:55; MON, WED-THU 3:55, 7:15, 9:55

THE METROPOLITAN OPERA: AIDA LIVE CHAIRS (classification not available) SAT 10:55 NATIONAL LAMPOON'S CHRISTMAS VACATION (STC) THU 7:30 JINGLE ALL THE WAY (STC) SAT 11:00 BATMAN RETURNS (STC) MON 7:30

CINEPLEX ODEON WINDERMERE CINEMAS Cineplex Odeon Windermere & Vip Cinemas, 6151 Currents Dr Nw Edmonton 780.822.4250

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Closed Captioned FRI, SUN-TUE 12:10, 2:40; SAT 11:30, 12:10, 2:40; WED-THU 12:10, 2:40, 5:10, 7:40, 10:05; 3D: FRI-TUE 5:10, 7:40, 10:05

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) SAT 12:30; SUN 12:00; 3D: FRI-SUN 4:00, 6:25, 8:45; MON-THU 6:40, 9:00

WRECK-IT RALPH (G) Closed Captioned FRI, SUNTHU 1:20, 3:50, 6:40, 9:10; SAT 11:15, 1:20, 3:50,

WRECK-IT RALPH (G) SAT-SUN 12:40; 3D: FRI-SUN 3:40, 6:55, 9:30; MON-THU 6:50, 9:30

TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned FRI-SAT 1:40, 4:40, 7:20, 10:35; SUN-WED 1:40, 4:40, 7:20, 10:25; THU 1:40, 4:40, 7:50, 10:25 LIFE OF PI 3D (PG) Closed Captioned DAILY 1:10, 4:10, 7:05, 10:00 SKYFALL (14A violence) Closed Captioned FRI, SUN-THU 12:30, 3:45, 7:00, 10:10; SAT 12:50, 3:50, 7:00, 10:10 THE GUILT TRIP (STC) Closed Captioned, No passes WED-THU 1:00, 3:20, 5:40, 8:00, 10:15 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes FRI 1:30, 2:30, 5:30, 6:10, 9:15, 9:50, 10:15; SAT 11:00, 1:30, 2:30, 5:30, 6:10, 9:15, 9:50, 10:15; SUN-WED 12:15, 2:30, 4:00, 6:10, 7:45, 9:50; THU 10:30, 12:15, 2:30, 4:00, 6:10, 7:45, 9:50; 3D: HIGH FRAME RATE ULTRAAVX: No passes DAILY 11:45, 3:15, 6:50, 10:30; Closed Captioned FRISAT 12:00, 3:30, 7:10, 10:50; SUN-THU 1:30, 5:30, 9:15; DAILY 12:45, 4:30, 8:30

MONSTERS, INC. 3D (G) Closed Captioned WEDTHU 12:20, 2:50, 5:20, 7:50, 10:15

16 FILM

SKYFALL (14A violence) Closed Captioned FRI-SUN 12:10, 3:30, 6:45, 10:20; MON-THU 12:25, 3:40, 7:00, 10:20

WWE TLC: TABLES, LADDERS AND CHAIRS (classification not available) SUN 6:00

KILLING THEM SOFTLY (14A course language, brutal violence, not recommended for young children) FRI-SAT 12:50, 3:10, 5:45, 8:10, 10:45; SUN-WED 12:50, 3:10, 5:45, 8:10, 10:30; THU 12:50, 3:10, 5:30, 10:30

Th er e a re ch a n ces ta k en w ith fo rm h er e, b u t th e en d l es s d ir ecto ria l f l a u n tin g in An n a j u s t d o es n ' t co n n ect to th e ma ter ia l in a n y s o rt o f s u s ta in a b l y in ter es tin g w a y.

LIFE OF PI 3D (PG) Closed Captioned FRI 12:35, 3:40, 6:40, 9:45; SAT-SUN 12:25, 3:30, 6:30, 9:35; MON-THU 3:55, 6:55, 10:00; ULTRAAVX: MON-THU 12:05

SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS (18A language may offend, gory violence) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:15, 4:00, 7:00, 9:30; MON, WEDTHU 4:00, 7:00, 9:30

PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) DAILY 1:50, 4:20, 7:50, 10:20



TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned FRI 11:10, 2:00, 4:50, 8:05, 10:50; SAT 2:00, 4:50, 8:05, 10:50; SUN 11:10, 2:00, 4:50, 7:50, 10:40; MON-THU 1:55, 4:40, 7:25, 10:10

MONSTERS, INC. 3D (G) WED-THU 12:00, 2:20, 4:55, 7:30, 10:00

6:40, 9:10

Anna Karenina

WRECK-IT RALPH (G) Closed Captioned FRI-SUN 11:35; MON-TUE 12:45; WED-THU 12:45, 3:30, 6:30, 9:20; 3D: Closed Captioned FRI-SUN 2:20, 5:05, 7:50, 10:30; MON-TUE 3:30, 6:30, 9:20

ARGO (14A) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:20, 4:10, 7:05, 9:45; MON, WED-THU 4:10, 7:05, 9:45

14231-137 Ave 780.732.2236

Kids just love to destroy stuff, and that's a huge part of the appeal of Disney's Wreck-It Ralph. It's the story of a giant-fisted, gorillaframed video game character who pulverizes windows and doors and develops a complex about it. The script leans on a few overly familiar plot twists, but the details are uniformly clever.

RED DAWN (14A) FRI-SAT 12:05, 2:30, 4:55, 8:10, 11:00; SUN 12:05, 10:25; MON-TUE 2:10, 4:55, 8:05, 10:25

FRI-SUN 12:40, 4:10, 7:10, 10:05; MON-WED 1:20, 4:15, 7:10, 10:15; THU 12:35, 3:25, 7:10, 9:35

CINEPLEX ODEON NORTH



1525-99 St 780.436.8585

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) FRI-SUN 11:05; MON-THU 12:05; 3D: FRI-SUN 1:50, 4:35, 7:20, 10:00; MON-THU 3:05, 6:00, 9:00

LOOPER (14A violence, coarse language) FRI-SUN, TUE 1:45, 4:35, 7:15, 9:55; MON, WED-THU 4:35, 7:15, 9:55

KHILADI 786 (PG violence) Hindi W/E.S.T. FRI-SUN, TUE 12:50, 3:45, 6:40, 9:40; MON, WED-THU 3:45, 6:40, 9:40

Wreck-It Ralph

CINEPLEX ODEON SOUTH

FLIGHT (18A substance abuse) Closed Captioned FRI, SUN-TUE 12:40, 4:00, 7:15, 10:15; SAT 4:10, 7:15, 10:15 LINCOLN (PG violence, language may offend, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned FRI-TUE 1:00, 4:15, 7:30 THE METROPOLITAN OPERA: AIDA LIVE CHAIRS (classification not available) SAT 10:55 NATIONAL LAMPOON'S CHRISTMAS VACATION (STC) THU 7:30 JINGLE ALL THE WAY (STC) SAT 11:00

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) FRI 3:50, 6:55, 9:50; SAT-SUN 12:20, 3:50, 6:55, 9:50; MON-THU 7:10, 9:50 LIFE OF PI 3D (PG) FRI 3:30, 7:05, 9:55; SAT-SUN 12:10, 3:30, 7:05, 9:55; MON-THU 7:00, 10:00 SKYFALL (14A violence) FRI 3:20, 6:35, 10:10; SAT-SUN 12:00, 3:20, 6:35, 10:10; MON-THU 6:40, 9:55; VIP 18+: FRI 3:00, 6:30, 10:30; SAT 6:15, 10:20; SUN 12:50, 5:15, 9:20; MON-THU 7:40 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes FRI 5:00, 9:00; SAT 2:30, 6:15, 10:00; SUN 12:25, 2:30, 6:15, 10:00; MON-THU 7:50 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) VIP 18+, No passes FRI 5:30, 9:35; SAT 1:50, 5:15, 9:20; SUN 1:50, 6:15, 10:20; MON-THU 8:4; 3D: VIP 18+: FRI 4:30, 8:35; SAT-SUN 12:00, 4:15, 8:20; MON-THU 6:40, 10:35; ULTRAAVX: FRI, SUN 3:00, 6:45, 10:30; SAT 11:15, 3:00, 6:45, 10:30; MON-THU 6:30, 10:05 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) FRI 4:10, 7:10, 9:40; SAT-SUN 12:50, 4:10, 7:10, 9:40; MON-THU 6:50, 9:20 THE METROPOLITAN OPERA: AIDA LIVE CHAIRS (classification not available) VIP 18+ SAT 10:55

CITY CENTRE 9 10200-102 Ave 780.421.7020

SKYFALL (14A violence) Closed Captioned, Digital Presentation, Dolby Stereo Digital, DAILY 12:20, 3:40, 7:00, 10:20 TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Digital Presentation, Dolby Stereo Digital, No passes DAILY 9:35 LINCOLN (PG violence, language may offend, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned, DTS Digital DAILY 12:10, 3:30, 6:50, 10:10 SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (14A coarse language) Closed Captioned, DTS Digital DAILY 12:40, 4:10, 7:15, 10:15

LIFE OF PI (PG) Closed Captioned, DTS Digital Daily 1:15; 3D: Digital 3d DTS Digital Daily 4:20, 7:25, 10:30 KILLING THEM SOFTLY (14A course language, brutal violence, not recommended for young children) Digital Presentation, Dolby Stereo Digital Fri-Sun, Tue 12:50, 4:15, 6:45; Mon 12:50 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned, Digital, Dolby Stereo Digital, No passes Fri-Sun, Tue 1:00, 4:40, 9:00; Mon, Wed-Thu 1:00, 4:40, 9:30; 3D: Closed Captioned, Digital 3d, Dolby Stereo Digital, On 2 Screens Daily 12:00, 1:30, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, 9:45 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) Digital, Dolby Stereo Digital Fri-Tue, Thu 12:30, 3:50, 7:10, 9:50; Wed 12:30 THE GUILT TRIP (STC) Digital, Dolby Stereo Digital

Wed-Thu 12:50, 4:15, 7:20, 10:00

CLAREVIEW 10 4211-139 Ave 780.472.7600

SKYFALL (14A violence) Digital Presentation Fri 6:35, 9:10; Sat-Sun 1:10, 3:30, 6:35, 9:10; Mon-Thu 4:30, 7:30 TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Digital Presentation Fri 6:45, 9:30; Sat-Sun 1:20, 4:00, 6:45, 9:30; Mon-Thu 4:45, 7:30 RED DAWN (14A) Digital Presentation Fri 6:50, 9:40; Sat-Sun 1:15, 4:25, 6:50, 9:40; Mon-Tue 5:00, 8:00 RISE OF THE GUARDIANS 3D (G) Digital 3d Fri 6:40, 9:15; Sat-Sun 4:10, 6:40, 9:15; Mon-Tue 4:35, 8:10 RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Digital Presentation

Sat-Sun 1:40; Wed-Thu 4:35, 8:10

LIFE OF PI (PG) Digital Presentation Fri 6:30, 9:20; Sat-Sun 12:55, 3:45, 6:30, 9:20; Mon-Tue 4:40, 7:40 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) Digital Presentation Fri 7:00, 9:35; Sat-Sun 1:35, 4:20, 7:00, 9:35; Mon-Thu 5:10, 7:50 THE GUILT TRIP (PG coarse and sexual language) Digital Presentation, No passes Wed-Thu 4:40, 7:40 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY 3D (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) Digital Presentation, No passes Fri 8:00; Sat-Sun 12:45, 4:20, 8:00; Mon-Thu 4:30, 7:20 Monsters, Inc. 3d (G) Digital 3d, No passes WedThu 5:00, 7:45 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY 3D (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) Digital 3d, No passes, On 3 Screens Fri 7:10, 8:30, 8:50; Sat-Sun 1:00, 1:30, 2:10, 4:40, 5:10, 7:10, 8:30, 8:50; Mon-Thu 4:50, 6:30, 7:00

GALAXY–SHERWOOD PARK 2020 Sherwood Dr Sherwood Park 780.416.0150

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Closed Captioned Sat-Sun 11:40, 2:10; 3d: Fri-Sun 4:40, 7:15, 9:45; Mon-Thu 7:00, 9:25 WRECK-IT RALPH (G) Closed Captioned Fri 5:00, 7:35, 10:10; Sat-Sun 11:50, 2:25, 5:00, 7:35, 10:10; Mon-Tue 6:55, 9:40 TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Closed Captioned Fri 4:40, 7:30, 10:20; Sat 11:05, 1:50, 4:40, 7:30, 10:20; Sun 1:50, 4:40, 7:30, 10:20; Mon-Thu 7:10, 9:55 LIFE OF PI (PG) Closed Captioned Wed-Thu 7:05, 10:05; 3d: Fri 4:00, 7:05, 10:05; Sat-Sun 1:00, 4:00, 7:05, 10:05; Mon-Tue 7:05, 10:05 SKYFALL (14A violence) Closed Captioned Fri 3:40, 7:00, 10:30; Sat-Sun 12:20, 3:40, 7:00, 10:30; MonThu 6:50, 10:05 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes Fri 5:00, 6:15, 8:45, 10:00; Sat 11:00, 1:15, 2:30, 5:00, 6:15, 8:45, 10:00; Sun 1:15, 2:30, 5:00, 6:15, 8:45, 10:00; Mon-Thu 7:15, 8:45; 3D: Fri 3:00, 5:45, 6:45, 9:30, 10:30; Sat 11:15, 2:00, 3:00, 5:45, 6:45, 9:30, 10:30; Sun 2:00, 3:00, 5:45, 6:45, 9:30, 10:30; Mon-Thu 6:30, 8:00, 10:10 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) Fri 5:10, 7:50, 10:25; Sat-Sun 12:10, 2:40, 5:10, 7:50, 10:25; Mon-Thu 7:25, 10:00 MONSTERS, INC. 3D (G) Wed-Thu 6:55, 9:40 Jingle All The Way (STC) Sat 11:00

GRANDIN THEATRE–St Albert Grandin Mall Sir Winston Churchill Ave St Albert 780.458.9822

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Daily 1:20, 3:20, 5:15, 7:25, 9:20 FLIGHT (18A substance abuse) Daily 1:10, 3:45, 6:25, 9:00 Wreck-It Ralph (G) Daily 1:00 3:05 5:10 7:20 9:30 Skyfall (14A violence) Fri-Tue 12:35, 3:15, 6:05, 8:45 The Hobbit An Unexpected Journey (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes Fri-Sun 1:30, 6:25, 9:25; Mon-Thu 12:45, 4:25, 7:45 The Guilt Trip (STC) No passes Wed-Thu 1:30, 3:30, 5:30, 7:30 ,9:35

LEDUC CINEMAS 4702-50 St Leduc 780.986-2728 ALL NEW STATE OF THE ART DIGITAL

DATE OF ISSUE ONLY: Thu, Dec 13 FLIGHT (18A substance abuse) Thu, Dec 13: 6:45, 9:35 RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) 3D: Thu, Dec 13: 7:00, 9:25 RED DAWN (14A) Thu, Dec 13: 7:10, 9:30

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Thu, Dec 13: 6:55, 9:40

METRO CINEMA at the Garneau Metro at the Garneau: 8712-109 St 780.425.9212

HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE–Miyazaki (PG) Sub-titled Fri 7:00; Sat 2:00; Sun 4:00 SILENT NIGHT–Dedfest (18A nudity, gory violence)

Fri 9:30

HOLY MOTORS (18A nudity) Sub-titled Sat 4:30; Mon 7:00; Wed 9:15 KILLER JOE (R sexual violence) Sat 7:00; Sun, Mon, Thu 9:15; Tue 9:30 HIGHWAY GOSPEL (14A coarse language) Sat 9:15; Sun, Thu 7:00 IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (G) Free with Food Bank Donation Sun 1:00 NAUSICAA OF THE VALLEY OF THE WIND–Miyazaki (STC) Tue 7:00 CASABLANCA (STC) Wed 7:00

Empire Theatres–Spruce Grove 130 Century Crossing Spruce Grove 780.962.2332

RED DAWN (14A) Fri 6:20, 9:15; Sat-Sun, Tue 12:40, 3:30, 6:20, 9:15; Mon 5:20, 7:30 TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Fri 6:50, 9:40; Sat-Sun, Tue 1:00, 3:50, 6:50, 9:40; Mon 5:10, 8:10; Wed-Thu 4:50, 7:40 LIFE OF PI (PG) Sat-Sun, Tue 12:50; Reald 3d Wed 4:40, 7:30; Thu 4:40, 7:30 Monsters, Inc. 3d (G) Reald 3d Wed-Thu 5:10, 7:50 LIFE OF PI 3D (PG) Reald 3d Fri 6:30, 9:10; Sat-Sun, Tue 3:40, 6:30, 9:10; Mon 4:50, 7:40 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) Fri 6:00, 9:30; Sat-Sun, Tue 12:30, 6:00, 9:30; Mon, Wed-Thu 5:00, 8:20; 3D: Reald 3d Fri, Mon, Wed-Thu 4:30, 8:00; Sat-Sun, Tue 12:00, 4:00, 8:00 THE GUILT TRIP (PG coarse and sexual language) Wed-

Thu 5:20, 8:10

SKYFALL (14A violence) Fri 6:15, 9:20; Sat-Sun, Tue 12:10, 3:10, 6:15, 9:20; Mon 4:40, 7:50 RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Sat-Sun, Tue 12:20; 3D: Reald 3d Fri 6:40, 9:00; Sat-Sun, Tue 3:20, 6:40, 9:00; Mon, Wed-Thu 5:30, 8:30

“THE MOVIE EVENT OF THE YEAR.” Jeff Craig, SIXTY SECOND PREVIEW

“VISUALLY STUNNING! A

MASTERPIECE!”

Danielle McGimsie, CTV eTALK

“MAGICAL AND IMMENSELY ENTERTAINING!” Mosé Persico, CTV Montreal

“IT’S AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE YOU’LL NEVER FORGET.” Bonnie Laufer, TRIBUTE CANADA

PRINCESS 10337-82 Ave 780.433.0728

Stories We Tell (PG coarse language, mature subject matter) Fri 9:00; Sat-Sun 3:00, 9:00; Mon-Thu 9:00 The Sessions (18A sexual content) DAILY 6:50; Sat-

Sun 1:00, 6:50; Mon-Thu 6:50

Hitchcock (PG not recommended for young children) Daily 7:00, 9:10; Sat-Sun 2:00, 7:00, 9:10; MON-Thu 7:00, 9:10

SCOTIABANK THEATRE WEM WEM 8882-170 St 780.444.2400

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS (G) Closed Caption and Descriptive Video Fri-Sun 11:50, 2:20; Mon-Thu 1:20 Rise Of The Guardians 3d (G) Closed Captioned Fri-

Sun 4:50, 7:30, 10:00; Mon-Thu 3:45, 6:40, 9:15

RED DAWN (14A) Fri 1:15, 4:15, 8:00, 10:45; Sat 4:45, 8:00, 10:45; Sun 12:00, 2:40, 10:45; Mon-Tue 1:30, 4:15, 7:45, 10:45; Wed-Thu 1:30, 4:15, 10:45 WRECK-IT RALPH (G) Closed Caption and Descriptive Video: Fri-Sun 12:00, 2:30; Mon 1:00; Tue 1:40; WedThu 1:40, 4:30, 7:30, 10:10; 3d: Closed Captioned Fri-Sun 5:10, 7:40, 10:10; Mon 4:00, 10:25; Tue 4:30, 7:30, 10:10 TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 (PG violence, disturbing content, not recommended for young children) Closed Caption and Descriptive Video Fri-Sun 11:30, 2:15, 5:00, 7:50, 10:40; Mon-Thu 1:10, 3:50, 7:10, 10:00 LIFE OF PI 3D (PG) Daily 1:00, 4:00, 6:50, 9:50 SKYFALL (14A violence) Closed Caption and Descriptive Video Fri-Sun 12:20, 3:40, 7:00, 10:20; Mon-Thu 12:30, 3:40, 7:00, 10:20 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) Closed Caption and Descriptive Video, No passes Fri-Sun 12:45, 4:30, 8:30; Mon-Thu 1:15, 5:00, 8:45; 3D: High Frame Rate Ultraavx: No passes Fri-Sun 11:45, 3:30, 7:15, 11:00; Mon-Thu 3:00, 6:45, 10:25; 3D: No passes Fri-Sun, Tue-Thu 2:00, 6:00, 9:45; Closed Captioned Mon 2:00, 6:00, 9:45 PLAYING FOR KEEPS (PG sexually suggestive scenes) Fri-Sun 11:40, 2:10, 4:40, 7:20, 10:15; Mon-Thu 2:10, 4:40, 7:20, 10:15 MONSTERS, INC. 3D (G) Wed-Thu 12:50, 3:30, 7:15, 9:40 Wwe Tlc: Tables, Ladders And Chairs (classification not available) Sun 6:00 KILLING THEM SOFTLY (14A course language, brutal violence, not recommended for young children) Fri-Sun 12:30, 3:15, 5:45, 8:15, 10:50; Mon 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 10:50; Tue-Thu 12:30, 3:15, 5:45, 8:15, 10:40 FLIGHT (18A substance abuse) Closed Caption and Descriptive Video Fri-Sun 12:10, 3:20, 6:30, 9:40; Mon-Tue 12:50, 4:10, 7:15, 10:30 THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY–An Imax 3d Experience (PG violence, frightening scenes, not recommended for young children) No passes Fri-Sun 11:20, 3:00, 6:45, 10:30; Mon-Thu 12:40, 4:20, 8:00 Batman Returns (STC) Mon 7:30 The Metropolitan Opera: Aida Live Chairs (classification not available) Sat 10:55

VIOLENCE, FRIGHTENING SCENES, NOT RECOMMENDED FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

SPECIAL 10PM SCREENINGS TONIGHT STARTS EVERYWHERE FRIDAY Check Theatre Directory or www.thehobbitmovie.ca for Locations and Showtimes AIM_VUE_DEC13_HPG_HOBBITrev Allied Integrated Marketing • EDMONTON VUE • 6” X 11”

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

FILM 17

DISH

Find a restaurant

ONLINE AT DISHWEEKLY.CA

PREVUE // OILS AND VINS

Quality makes all the difference Evoolution a foodie haven for premium product

// Meaghan Baxter

Evoolution 10130 - 104 St 587.521.3445 evoolution.ca

I

f the only olive oil or balsamic vinegar you've ever purchased for yourself has been the run of the mill varieties from grocery stores shelves, do yourself—and your food—a favour and have a taste of the good stuff.

Evoolution, located on the trendy 4th Street Promenade, is Edmonton's first business to specialize strictly in premium oils and vins. The bright, open space is adorned with rows upon rows of gleaming metal fustis housing only the highest quality extra virgin olive oils and balsamics the world has to offer. Not to mention, you're free to taste before you buy, eliminating the fear of committing to a new variety without knowing if you'll enjoy it first.

It can all be a little overwhelming, but the friendly and knowledgeable staff are there to guide customers to find something to suit their tastes and needs.

18 DISH

"Don't be too overwhelmed or too afraid to try anything," advises Curtis Savage, who owns the business along with fellow born-and-raised Edmontonians Sean Murphy and Mark McRae. "We made it a priority to hire quality staff that have a pretty sound base of food knowledge and a passion for trying the product, using it and relaying what they're doing with it to the customer. And helping the customer is a big part of the experience here."

The trio's collective professional backgrounds are a diverse mix: McRae is a chartered accountant, Murphy is a lawyer and Savage's is in small business, which until recently involved running a trucking company. Olive oils and vins may seem like a far stretch, but it was Murphy—who Savage declares the foodiest of the trio—who discovered a similar concept during a trip to Halifax with his wife.

Despite embarking on different career paths, the owners all have a keen interest in high-quality food, and following a great deal of reading and training, including a trip to a mill in Napa Valley in California to learn about the crushing process, they were ready for business.

"I think it's time that Edmonton has a little more colour and a little more choice in terms of premium ingredients," Savage notes of the business, which sources its products from a California-based supplier who scours the world for the best of the best.

Right now, the store is featuring over 25 extra virgin fused/infused and premium varietal oils from the southern hemisphere, such as Chile and Australia. Among the lineup are a collection of oils ranging from medium to robust olive varietals to more creative concoctions. The infused varieties, which are given their flavour using real ingredients, are where the fun really begins.

Blood orange, harissa, wild mushroom and sage, garlic and Persian lime are among a multitude of flavours.

On the opposite side of the store await the flavour packed vins, which include rich darks such as 12- and 18year traditionals, blackberry ginger, dark chocolate, espresso, cinnamon pear, pomegranate and raspberry.

Among the tangy white varieties are cranberry pear, golden pineapple, honey ginger, peach, and jalapeño.

Not merely bread dippers, Savage suggests trying out Italian sodas with the fruit flavours, and each blackboard situated above the fustis comes complete with other cooking

and pairing suggestions to get the creative juices flowing.

Whether its vins or oils, each varietal comes in three different sizes and fixed prices—$12/200 ml, $18/375ml and $29/750 ml—unless you plan on indulging in specialty items such as black truffle oil. Other unique premium items include an array of flavoured sea salts, spices, pantry accessories, dried pastas, tapinades, Olivella personal care items and sweets from The Violet Chocolate Company.

Come February, the oil varietals are swapped out for those from countries in the northern hemisphere such as Spain and Tunisia. The six-month retail cycle corresponds with each hemisphere's crushing season.

Whether a customer is tasting or buying, oils and vins are dispensed directly from their respective fustis, which keep out heat, light and air—three factors that compromise quality. Savage notes that when you head down the grocery store aisle to get olive oil or balsamic vinegar, they are often in clear bottles sitting under fluorescent light for who knows how long.

"It's got a best before date, but it tells you nothing about when it was crushed, where it's from," Savage says.

"A lot of the time, we've become acclimatized to tasting what is really rancid

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

olive oil and thinking that's olive oil.

All of our oils exceed the minimum standards of what is legally considered to be extra virgin olive oil. There are a lot of sensory and chemistry standards that are required to be even legally labelled extra virgin."

To be legally labelled extra virgin, Savage explains the free fatty acids in the varietal must be below 0.8 percent, and none of the oils at Evoolution creep above 0.4 percent.

"Where that's really going to make a difference is when you're heating your oil. One of the most common misconceptions with olive oil is you can't cook with it at all and that's only partially true. A cheap quality oil, that's true, but a good quality oil with a low free fatty acid level will hold up to 400 degrees no problem" Savage explains, pointing out that the flavour explanation cards beside each fusti display this information, as well as the oleic acid value and polyphenol (antioxidant) value—a number that should be high.

"Some of the things to look for are what is the country of origin? When was it crushed and what is the variety of that olive? If you determine those three things you can probably track how fresh your oil is. Ask questions; inquire what's going into your food."

MEAGHAN BAXTER

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

DISH 19

ADVERTORIAL Fo

rR ww 780 eser w. - 4 5 v a t i op 8 en -22 ons: tab 32 le. co m

T

he more things change, the more things stay the same. Such has been the case at the fine-dining restaurant, The RiverHouse, in St. Albert.

This restaurant was sold to Nathan Henry in May. But during the transition period, the people at The RiverHouse ensured that the dining experience that customers expect at this restaurant remained as special and high-quality as ever before.

Henry, along with head chef Steve Brochu, and dining manager Jason Gordichuk, listened to customers’ feedback, thus ensuring that the transition would occur smoothly. The desserts at the restaurant are one menu item in which towards which this feedback was applied.

While the plating of the desserts changed and became more innovative during the transition, the overall essence of the desserts, and their superb flavour, did not. The desserts, even the ice cream, continue to be made inhouse, and remain creative and unique.

The white-chocolate candle, served as dessert as part of the dinner menu dur-

ing wine-maker’s dinner events, is one example of such an innovative and attractive dessert.

At The RiverHouse, the braised shortribs, which take 2-3 days to make, continue to be a customer favourite, as always. The in-house smoked salmon, the crab cakes with black pepper sauce, the flatbread, and the lamb shanks, all continue to please customers as ever before. As with the desserts, the food is made fresh inhouse, and the quality of the food is apparent when the plates come back to the kitchen completely empty. The staff even wonder if the diners licked their plates clean!

As much as possible, The RiverHouse tries to buy local food and from local suppliers. For instance, Sangudo Farms supplies meat to the restaurant. Local St. Albert residents, as well as people from Edmonton, can enjoy fine dining right in St. Albert at The RiverHouse. The location right on the beautiful river creates beautiful scenery to accompany the fine-dining experience. We invite diners to enjoy the tasty brunch on weekend mornings.

The wine menu, that now includes 56 different wines, keeps growing, based on requests from restaurant regulars.

There are just under 30 types of Single Malt Scotch, and The RiverHouse is working towards having family distillery groupings. This will involve offering 5 groupings, with different vintages, such as 15 yr, 18 yr, 21 yr, 25 yr, in each group.

Perron Place houses The RiverHouse.

It was built in the early 1990s, and has an old-style charm, one that fits right into the historic character of St. Albert and its downtown. Its two dining rooms, one traditional and one contemporary, make The RiverHouse an ideal choice for large bookings. Whether it’s a party, a wedding, or a luncheon, a group of about 40-60 people can enjoy the beautiful river scenery, great indoor ambience, a special menu, and excellent service from the staff.

Located right in the heart of St. Albert, The RiverHouse invites residents of this community, as well as Edmontonians who wish to come up the Trail for a fine-dining experience, because excellent food never changes.

FALL IN LOVE with Holiday Keepsakes This holiday season, make some new old friends. These charming keepsakes are a few of our merriest.

Start a new tradition and hang a Christmas pickle on your tree. The first person to spot it Christmas morning is said to have good luck all year.

Each hand-carved Santa is a signed Tom Reasbeck original.

3

2 1 Tom Reasbeck Santas $99–$179 2 Ne’Qwa Hand-Painted Bottle Stoppers $35, each 3 Christmas Pickle $4

1 Check out our Comfort & Joy gift guide for more things we love.

Text enjoy to 77777 for directions or visit enjoycentre.ca 20 DISH

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

101 Riel Drive, St. Albert

IN THE KITCHEN

A taste of Italy

MEAGHAN BAXTER // MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

Lit's head chef shares his inspiration who spoke with Vue about why he chose to become a chef and his inspiration in the kitchen.

attention to detail and care from the start of the dish to the very end.

VW: What inspires you in the kitchen?

VUE WEEKLY:

How many years have you been in the culinary industry?

SALVATORE MATTOLLA: I have been cooking for 18 years. My formal education is actually in constructional design, but I grew up with a love of Italian cuisine and a passion for cooking that couldn't be ignored. Back home in Italy, I could always be found cooking for friends, family and in the kitchen of the restaurant I owned.

Here in Canada, it's the same story.

SM:

VW: Why did you want to become a chef?

VW:

I have always loved the way food brings everyone together. For me, cooking is a passion and a pleasure.

SM:

Lit Italian Wine Bar 10132 - 104 St 780.757.6688 litwinebar.ca Lit Italian Wine Bar, located on Edmonton's bustling 4th Street Promenade, has become known around town for its extensive wine selection, but also its upscale Italian fare. Behind the restaurant's sophisticated ambiance and artfully prepared dishes is co-owner and chef Salvatore Mottola,

VW: How old were you when you learned how to cook? Who taught you outside of formal education?

SM: I was 25 years old when I first started cooking and am completely self taught.

VW: How

would you describe your culinary style?

SM: Italian comfort food.

Fish. Seafood is my specialty and from which I get the majority of my inspiration. In Italy I lived by the ocean.

My grandfather was a fisherman so we often had fish at meals. Seafood is something that holds many fond memories for me; memories from which I get my inspiration. There is nothing quite as endearing as recreating a memory through the senses of touch, smell and taste.

What is the most fulfilling aspect about cooking for other people? What is the most challenging?

SM: Like I mentioned above, food brings people together. Being the one who cooks and adds to that is a wonderful feeling.

VW: What advice do you have for novice

cooks or people looking to refine their skills in the kitchen?

SM: If you have the passion for what you love, work hard and keep at it. If you truly love what you do, nobody can stop you.

VW: If you hadn't become a chef, what ca-

VW: What makes a great dish?

SM: Fresh ingredients, the perfect com-

bination of flavours and the utmost

reer path would you have chosen?

Something in the area of construction. V

SM:

Open at 8am every Saturday.

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

DISH 21

PROFILE // HOT CHOCOLATE

Not your average hot chocolate New takes on a winter favourite

I

t's winter and I'm about to have a popsicle—a hot chocolate popsicle, that is.

The popsicles, which become hot chocolate when mixed with milk or water, differ from other hot chocolates, as the popsicles contain no powder, explains Tom Lim, co-owner of T.H.I.S. Place café along with Trudie Yeung.

"As a child, all we ever knew was powder," Lim recalls.

These popsicles take the form of real chocolate cubes on a popsicle stick. In the case of the gingerbread popsicle—one of the holiday specials at T.H.I.S. Place—the chocolate and spice cube hugs a stick of cinnamon. Mix this into hot milk or water and you have a luxurious, creamy beverage.

For Lim, the inspiration for creating rich, silky hot chocolate came from visiting Europe. There, he encountered nothing powdered and enjoyed the social camaraderie Europeans embraced while gathering over a hot beverage.

"Your memory of the conversation is heightened because of all the good food and drink," Lim notes.

Chatting over hot chocolate is what we are doing now. I'm sipping a cup of the creamy gingerbread hot chocolate, rich with ginger and cinnamon topped with milk foam. Lim tells me about other flavours of popsicles that the two-month-old café offers: almond, peppermint, spicy chili, as well as dark, milk and white chocolate.

Our conversation switches to the café itself.

A Buddhist, Lim notes that Buddhism inspired the café's décor, with exposed concrete, clean white walls and painted wooden booths adorning the newly opened space.

"It's a positive, clean energy," Lim says. "The décor is inspired by simplicity."

Before I leave, Lim offers me a popsicle to

Winter popsicle

22 DISH

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

take home and I select the milk-chocolate one.

Mixed into hot whole milk, this one is deliciously creamy.

South of the river, Block 1912 is offering rotating hot chocolate specials during the holidays.

Bryan Saunders, the café's community manager, explains that cookies were the inspiration behind many of the beverages.

"The inspiration was making food into a drink and that translation," Saunders says.

For example, there's the chocolate-gingerbread latté and the decadent S'more in a Cup. This creation steams together chocolate milk, Kahlua, and Bailey's. The rim of the cup is dipped in chocolate sauce and graham crackers while a toasted marshmallow on a toothpick can be used for stirring. Saunders recommends leaving the marshmallow in the cup right until the drink is finished—the marshmallow will soak up the alcohol.

"You then have a wonderfully alcoholic marshmallow at the end of your drink," he laughs. "I learned that from experience."

However, cookies didn't inspire all the holiday specials at Block 1912. For example: The Nightmare Before Christmas. Mixing chocolate milk and espresso, a toasted marshmallow and orange and black sprinkles, this holiday beverage channels the classic Tim Burton film.

I try the homemade eggnog. Delicious with a shot of brandy, this drink has a spicier flavour and lighter texture than the store-bought variety. Oh, this is much better.

I also sample the lavender white mocha, a hot chocolate available year-round and one that Saunders loves.

"It's like putting flowers into a drink."

MARIA KOTOVYCH

// MARIA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

SERVING YOU FOR 30 YEARS

Since 1983

Main Line - 780-482-1111 5 Stars - 5 Spoons - Golden Fork Winner for Best East Indian Restaurant for 7 years straight!

West - 17507 100 Ave • Sherwood Park - 10A Main Bld Downtown - 10220 103 St Original (Sask Drive) - 10143 Saskatchewan Dr North - 320 Manning Crossing • South - 9308 34 Ave Whyte Ave’s first Boll’n Bollywood Bar! Proudly Presents:

Come join us for our Bollywood Blitz on November 3rd!

10331 82 Ave

705-5570

(next to the Princess Theatre)

www.naanolicious.ca

Bollywood Stags & Stagettes available VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

DISH 23

WINE

'Tis the season for port

Tawny, ruby, vintage; take your pick Perhaps it's the plunging temperatures, in alcohol than table wine (usually the influx of awkward relatives or the around 17-percent to 20-percent ABV), abundance of sweets, but there's and are usually served after a meal— just something about the which is why they are also called VIDI Christmas season that dessert wine.

VENI, has me drinking copious There are a few different .com amounts of port. styles of port: namely tawny, ly k e e uew mel@v Port is a type of fortiruby and vintage. Tawny port Mel y fied wine, which is basically is brownish-red to golden in coe l t Pries regular red wine that's been lour, which results from being aged spiked with neutral grape spirits before in wood barrels for several years prior it finishes fermenting. True port comes to bottling. This aging process causes from Portugal's Douro Valley, though the change in colour and imparts a charall wine-producing countries make their acteristic "nutty" flavour; tawny ports own versions of port-like fortified wine. typically also have flavours of caramel, These wines are rich, sweet and higher butterscotch, figs and vanilla.

VINO

Tawny port usually has an age designation on the label: 10, 20, 30 or 40 Year Old. However, this is actually somewhat of a misnomer, as it doesn't indicate the actual age of the liquid inside the bottle; 40 Year Old port is not actually 40 years old. Rather, tawny ports are made up of a blend of wines from different years and the categories are merely used to suggest its supposed flavour "profile"— that is, the wine should taste a certain way at each of the different categories.

But it's totally subjective and many 10 Year Old tawnies are just as tasty as their 40 Year Old counterparts—not to mention much cheaper.

Ruby port is a generic variety that's the cheapest and most mass-produced.

Most lower-end ports are ruby, and while none will amaze, they do have a certain simple charm. As the name suggests, ruby port is a deep red colour with flavours of rich red fruit.

The most renowned type of port is vintage port, which has a specific year indicated on the label (ie 1983); the juice inside can only come from that particular year. Vintage port is not made every single year, but only in years that have been "declared"—that is, the producers decide their grape harvest is high quality enough to make vintage port. They are designed to be cellared for a very long time before consumption, usually at least 10 years but often 30 years or more.

Because port is fortified it can last much longer than regular table wine once the bottle has been opened—usually two to four weeks. However, vintage port is the exception to this and should be treated like table wine — drink it within a day or two of opening.

Because of their high level of sweetness, all types of port are ideal when served with dessert; tawny port pairs well with classic Christmas treats like butter tarts and shortbread cookies while ruby ports are delicious with any form of chocolate.

Blue cheese is also an amazing port pairing, especially with vintage port—even if you think blue cheese is gross, the mixture of salty cheese and sweet port just might change your mind. V

24 DISH

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

This Christmas, give the

gift of finger callouses and bad "Wonderwall" covers!

RETAIL VALUE:

$30998 provided by

St.Albert: #30, 580 St. Albert Trail Edmonton: 2804 Calgary Trail NW www.innovationsmusic.com Phone 780 460-4432 Toll Free 1 888 460-4400

WASHBURN WD11S Heritage Acoustic

Make a Turning Point at our Community Centre The most precious gift

WIN THIS GUITAR WITH A SOFT SHELL CASE! www.vueweekly.com/giftguide2012

+Profile Dreadnought Guitar Bag

 Acupuncture

So warm, so soft, so comfortable and so

• Massage • Physiotherapy •

very colourful that you’ll actually WANT to get socks this Christmas!

RETAIL VALUE:

$6500

• Pain management • Stress reduction • • Facial rejuvenation • Weight Loss • Herbal therapy • • Wellness coaching • Fertility • Prenatal care & Doula services •

provided by Get an extra sock in the kid's "pair"! Yup, they've thought of everything!

#102, 6421–112 Ave. 780 482-6460 sabrinabutterflydesigns.ca

The Acupuncture Turning Point

SOLMATE SOCKS 1 pair Adult Medium - W:8-10 / M:7-9 1 pair Adult X-Large - W:12+ / M:11-14 1 pair Kids Medium - AGE:6-8 yrs

WIN THESE SOCKS! www.vueweekly.com/giftguide2012

202 – 10518 Whyte Ave www.acupunctureturningpoint.ca

780-437-7723

Did you know...

You can win any of the gifts that you see in our Holiday Gift Guide by going to vueweekly.com /giftguide2012 VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

GIFT GUIDE 25

Just so we don't seem like Scrooges,

Why give a gift that only lasts a while,

when you can give a gift that lasts a lifetime?

RETAIL VALUE:

$15000

TATTOO TIME 1.5 hours of tatttoo time from one of our talented artists!*

we are giving away our own little grab bag, featuring CDs, DVDs, Gift Certificates, and more!

provided by

780 628-4813 10522 – 82 Ave. www.strangecity.ca Artist: Ryan Buttar

*not guaranteed to be the artist who created the above tattoo.

WIN 1.5 HOURS OF TATTOO TIME! www.vueweekly.com/giftguide2012

make

give Small gifts and complete art kits for artists Purchase an Art Kit over $150 Get a Free Workshop (Value $40)

share

ART 10032 81 Avenue Edmonton AB Ph: (780) 432 0240 www.paintspot.ca

ART SUPPLIES 26 GIFT GUIDE

WORKSHOPS

GALLERY VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

provided by

APROX RETAIL VALUE:

$15000 WIN THIS PRIZE PACKAGE! www.vueweekly.com/ giftguide2012

With an acrylic painting set

PLUS a free workshop Jan 12 or 13, this is a great gift to draw inspiration from... or on.

DON’T WORRY IF YOU’RE LATE WITH YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING...

FULL ART SET AND LESSONS

2 each - 12x16" Stretched Canvas 10 brushes in a nylon case Large Palette 20 tubes of Acrylic colours Workshop Coupon for $40 for Jan 12 or 13

provided by RETAIL VALUE:

O N LY

K I N G S WAY M A L L . C O M

1110-18997 December 13 Vue Weekly Ad.indd 1

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

File Name 1110-18997 December 13 Vue Weekly Ad v1

U S E I N T E R N A L

9:30AM – 11PM

A R E

F O R

WE’RE OPEN FROM

N A M E S

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14

F I L E

WIN THIS PAINT SET! www.vueweekly.com/giftguide2012

10032 – 81 Ave. 780 432-0240 www.paintspot.ca

DATE: 30 NOV 2012

$12455

12-11-30 3:36 PM

GIFT GUIDE 27

SNOW ZONE SNOW ZONE // COLD WEATHER SAFETY

You better check yo' self before you wreck yo' self

T

here should be no fooling "For three days we were in our tent, numb to the touch." around when you're preparing just waiting out the storm and hopDarrah says his frostbite story "isn't for an outdoor adventure this wining that the tent would hold up." that spectacular" considering he ter.

When the group finally decided didn't lose any limbs or end up with Whether you're heading out for your to move on and Darrah put his feet any major defects, but his mangled morning commute, spending a day on back into his cold, wet boots, he ran toenail and callused middle toes will the ski hill or going on a multi-day ice into trouble. forever be a reminder of the pain he climb, there's potential for frost nip, "By the time we got down to a low- suffered following that climb. frostbite and hypothermia. er camp, when I took my boots off Max Darrah, visitor safety techni... I could tell right away I had done The key to staying safe in freezing cian for Jasper Nate m p e r a t u r e s tional Park, knows all is awareness, Max Darrah, visitor safety technician for Jasper about the importance preparation National Park, knows a thing or two about of winter safety and and equipment, staying warm and safe during winter excursions. says Darrah. preparedness.

Not His advice: "The best thing to do is prevent the only has he helped In his case, havsituation from happening." rewarm many an outing a sturdy tent door adventurer, he and the group's has suffered frostbite. practice of usIt was 2006 and he and two others some damage to a couple of my toes. ing an ice pick as a tent peg were two were climbing the highest mountain "It was probably 10 days later things that kept his party sheltered, in Canada, Yukon Territory's when they really woke alive and relatively unscathed.

Mount Logan. up–when the skin Although his frostbite took place on While descending the and the nail and Mount Logan, Darrah says it's imporsummit plateau, everything came tant to remember that "it's not just the group was off. It was quite the really high remote mountains pinned down by painful. But up where [cold weather] injuries occur." a large storm. until that point Even on the ski hill people can be they were just exposed to extreme cold that can woody and cause frost nip or bite.

Darrah advises being aware of the early warning signs as the first step to staying safe.

IF YOU

Frost nip: The first indication of frost nip is red skin that turns white when touched. Frost nip occurs when the skin is extremely cold, but not quite frozen. It commonly affects the ears, nose, cheeks, fingers and toes.

If frost nip is treated promptly with gentle rewarming, it will heal without complication. If not, it can turn into frostbite.

LOVE JASPER...

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29 >>

MAKE ROOM IN YOUR HEART

FOR LAKE LOUISE TOO!

JASPER

MOUNTAINEERLODGE.COM 28 SNOW ZONE

ALBERTA

MOUNTROBSONINN.COM VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

BUNDLE UP

<< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

Frostbite: Skin affected by frostbite looks white and waxy and it feels hard to the touch. Frostbite occurs when the skin becomes so cold that it and the underlying tissue freeze completely.

Treatment of frostbite begins with removing the person from the cold and placing the affected area in warm water until it is rewarmed.

In extreme cases, limbs and appendages will be removed.

Hypothermia: A person suffering from hypothermia may act inappropriately with uncharacteristic stumbling, mumbling and fumbling. These actions are caused by an abnormally low body temperature (less than 34 C, compared to normal body temperature at about 37 C).

For minimal damage and survival, early recognition and prompt medical attention is crucial. If left untreated, hypothermia can result in a coma and death.

FALLLINES

If you're out in the wilderness and a member of your party falls through the ice, Darrah says the first thing to do is remove the person from the cold environment and then remove their clothes.

"Water and wet clothes suck heat right out of you," he says. So, it's best to get the clothes off and replace them with whatever extra clothing the party has. If you have blankets and sleeping bags, cover the person with those, as well.

From there, the group needs to begin aggressive warming, which includes feeding the person warm fluids and using body heat to warm them up.

Darrah says the best way to stay safe is by preventing these situations from happening in the first place. To do that he suggests researching your trip, making a plan with your team, packing all necessary survival items, getting educated and dressing appropriately for the weather.

NICOLE VEERMAN

// NICOLE@VUEWEEKLY.COM

HART GOLBECK // HART@VUEWEEKLY.COM

World Cup biathlon event earlier this month. Not only was he on the podium, he was on the top shelf savouring a gold medal.

Biathlon is a combination of crosscountry skiing and shooting. Guellec hit every target and finished the 10 km sprint in just over 25 minutes.

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BASE

SNOWBOARD CROSS AND MORE

Canada's Alpine ski team may be off to a slow start this season but all of Canada's other winter sport athletes have started off with a bang.

Last weekend, Quebec's Dominique Maltais took gold in this season's Snowboard X opener held in Austria.

Maltais had a disappointing 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, but has since made up for all of her past mistakes. Last winter, she won the overall World Cup Snowboard X championship and she completed that amazing season with a Winter X Games gold medal in late January.

Winning the first race of this season will certainly set her up for another fantastic year.

I haven't written much about flatlanders but there's some fabulous news I must report. Jean-Philippe Le Guellec, another native Quebecer, became the first Canadian male biathlete to capture a medal in a

Building a significant early season ski base is one of the primary concerns for mountain resort operation teams.

It is especially important for hills located in our National Parks because their slopes can't be bulldozed down to a smooth finish during the summer.

The holiday season onslaught of skiers and boarders can be hard on popular runs and congested zones.

Getting a good base prepared improves conditions for these busy times and provides a solid base well into spring.

This year, all of our mountain resorts are off to a fantastic start.

Years ago, I was told that at Marmot Basin a 60 cm base was the foundation required to provide great conditions. This minimum was surpassed a couple of weeks ago and the snow continues to fly.

Sunshine and Lake Louise have both gone over a metre and down south at Castle Mountain, the midmountain measuring stick was at 90 cm. That's a pretty good start considering their season opener is this weekend.

Just across the BC border, at Fernie, they've already packed down over 150 cm. That base is due greatly to a 100 cm snowfall last week.

All that snow on the hills means a lot more fun, knowing you won't be hitting rocks and small trees when you're making turns. V

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

SNOW ZONE 29

ARTS

PREVUE // THEATRE

Deck the halls With Bells On rewraps the Christmas play

Until – Sun, Dec 23 (8 pm) Directed by Darrin Hagen Roxy Theatre, $13 – $21

I

f you're a lover of theatre in Edmonton, it's nearly impossible to say you've never seen anything by Guys in Disguise.

Having celebrated its 25th anniversary this past summer, the theatre group's own Darrin Hagen is back to present With Bells On for this year's holiday season. The plot unfolds in a jammed elevator holding two passengers: a mousey accountant reentering the world after a messy divorce, and a decked-out drag queen on her way to win the crown at a Christmas pageant.

A combination of Hagen's own experiences led to him writing and directing this play. The confined space of a stalled elevator became the setting of the show after an eventful trip on his building's unreliable elevator. For Hagen, the most exciting aspects of the play are presented through working with this small space.

Hold the elevator! // Ian Jackson, EPIC

PREVUE // THEATRE

The Snow Globe Festival of Children's Theatre

"Limitations like the elevator have opened up a great deal of creative space for me," explains Hagen. "I had never written a play before where most of the action happens in one scene. Suddenly, the stage picture I created was confined to this closet and I had to find ways to make it work. There's comedy to be found in such close proximity and the trick is to find as many beautiful stage pictures as you can within that tiny vertical space."

Though Hagen still acts occasionally, he is relishing his career-move towards writing and directing. With Bells On debuted as a 45-minute piece through Lunchbox Theatre's play development program, where Paul Welch (rather than Hagen) ended up playing the role of the mousey accountant.

"By the time I got the play to the place I wanted it to be, I didn't want to act in it anymore," says Hagen. "For a long time we thought Guys in Disguise was about me in a dress on stage, but it is so good to get past that and have someone else bring a fresh energy. I learn so much about my writing by watching other actors perform it. Any musician who performs their own work will tell you that when you write a piece for your-

ARTIFACTS

self you're limited by what you're able to play. If you're not the one to play it, though, you're not limited by anything but your imagination."

With Bells On is Hagen's first holidaythemed play, and it represents more than another line on his quickly developing director's resume. The show has pushed Hagen to challenge himself and audiences alike about the nature of Christmas entertainment.

"When I started to realize that this was a Christmas play, it became a perfect fit because I actually despise holiday programming," he explains. "I hate Norman Rockwell paintings where everyone's in fur coats and sliding down huge banisters ... I grew up in a trailer court—that shit meant nothing to me.

"It was so often that the Christmas season would come and I was doing a drag show or working at a gay bar," Hagen continues. "There were a lot of people that didn't get to go home for Christmas either because their families didn't want them or they didn't feel comfortable supporting the season. In my community those people came together for Christmas, and for me this play speaks to that."

SALIHA CHATTOO

// SALIHA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

MEAGHAN BAXTER

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

wanted more of an intimate venue," Chorley notes.

Adventures on the wrong bus, and more, at Snow Globe

Tue, Dec 18 – Sat, Dec 22 C103 (formerly Catalyst Theatre), $18 – $28

T

he anticipation leading up to Christmas break is as exciting for kids as it is trying for their parents and teachers. "I remember growing up, that last week of school was always just kind of like waiting for Christmas, just waiting to get out of school," states Ellen Chorley, producer of The Snow Globe Festival of Children's Theatre. "Teachers are having kids bouncing off the walls in that last week, so I wanted to give schools a really good way to fill that

30 ARTS

time, and have something educational and also entertaining."

Now in its second year, Snow Globe is a five-day festival featuring three plays aimed at young audiences. The shows have public performances during the evenings and afternoon matinees for students. Last year the festival was held at Avenue Theatre on 118 Street, but this year the venue changed to C103 (formerly the Catalyst Theatre) in Old Strathcona.

"Avenue [Theatre] is a great venue for music, but it just took a lot of effort for us to transform that space to work for children's theatre because we

This year's plays include Robin Hood, which Chorley describes as the classic story done in a slapstick, Three Stooges style, as well as Babes in Toyland, a musical co-production with students from Victoria School for the Arts. The festival's third show is a play written

by Chorley herself, titled Birdie on the Wrong Bus. Set in Edmonton, it tells the story of a little girl who takes the wrong bus home from school and ends up seeing those quirky, often overlooked landmarks unique to Edmonton—the giant baseball bat on 97 Street and 118 Avenue, the giant cowboy boot on Stony Plain Road, and the "end of the world" where Keillor Road collapsed into the river valley in 2003.

"We try not to make a big difference between adult theatre and children's theatre," Chorley notes. "We just want to tell really good stories. We want adults that come—because of course a lot of adults are coming with their kids—to enjoy it as well. We just want to stage good theatre with a little bit more magic."

MEL PRIESTLEY

// MEGHAN BAXTER

Yule Ave: A Merry Christmas/ Fri, Dec 14 – Sun, Dec 16 It's prime time for creating some festive holiday art, and the inaugural Yule Ave festival aims to create the season through Christmas-themed workshops, including ornament making and snow sculpture installations. Accompanying a variety of family-friendly performances by local artists, the weekend caps off with Yule Ave, A Blast, hosted by Chris Craddock.

(Alberta Avenue)

// MEL@VUEWEEKLY.COM

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

Apocalypse Prairie: The Book of Daniel/ Until Sat, Dec 15 (8 pm) Seeing as we're supposedly right around the corner from an apocalypse of our own, Azimuth Theatre and The Groove Co-op is resurrecting Apocalypse Prairie. The theatrical piece explores the historical, cultural and political landscape of Alberta in a story of what became of a theatre company when it was guided by the rules of musicians rather than traditional storytelling idioms of live theatre. (Living Room Playhouse)

REVUE // VISUAL ARTS

REVUE // THEATRE

It's Only Natural

The Velveteen Rabbit by a consistently rushed delivery that stands in rather harsh juxtaposition with the scenes directly from the book, which abruptly settle into a much slower and calmer enactment.

A stage-worthy take on the children's classic

Fri, Dec 7 – Mon, Dec 24 (no shows Dec 10, 13, 17 or 20) Directed by Amanda Bergen Capitol Theatre at Fort Edmonton Park, $12 – $28

C Nature gone wrong // Paul Freeman

Until Sun, Feb 18 Works by Paul Freeman Art Gallery of Alberta

P

aul Freeman is one of those artists who conclusively prove that there is more to art than matching living room couches. His prolific output includes digital print collages of deceased animals and ceramic sculpture with replaced body parts. His current exhibition, It's Only Natural, features a metal-cast and monumental pair of elk sheltered by an armour of antlers that cover their entire body. This is hardly beautiful, decorative or even meditative art. It is instead convincingly thoughtful and thought provoking.

Like much of Freeman's work, this piece is in a league of it's own. Cervus Erectus and Cervus Ejectus—as he sardonically named the pair—doesn't draw on clear-cut historical precedents. While fantastic, the sculpture is far too conscious and premeditated to be surrealist. By a stretch of my Slavic imagination, it may have a note of black humour and political overtones of some East European art.

Otherwise, a Freeman is an ism of its own: curiously outside of art historical references.

So it was with surprise that I entered the gallery, circled the elk, and was struck by the remarkable similarity between this piece and one of the pillars of western sculpture: Michelangelo's Dying and Rebellious Slaves. Both dyadic sculptures depict two males, juxtapose the victorious and the vanquished and contrast upward reaching and downward-falling compositions.

Both victorious and vanquished sets of figures prominently exhibit uplifted thrust of the throat that expose vulnerability and both have sexual undertones. And there is more: Michelange-

lo's sculpture seems deeply symbolic.

Theories abound (including the Platonic theme of the soul burdened by the body) and tantalizing clues have been observed such as a roughed-out figure of a monkey beside the dying slave, but no interpretation has ever been confirmed.

A similar sense of insistent iconography permeates Freeman's Yin and Yang duo. The message is apparent and yet illusive. Opposing forces of nature are at play: life and death, victory and defeat. This primal struggle is saturated with sexuality. The mating battle depicted in Freeman's work is more primal than humanity itself, and timelessly reenacted on school playgrounds or boardrooms. The blood-red colour of the elk could be sexual power, anger, force, but also the blood of imminent defeat. The antlers, weapons and symbols of strength and prowess are out of control.

They burden the elk; death is imminent. Sexuality has run wild and turned cancerous.

The sense of something having gone terribly wrong is deeply disturbing in Freeman's work. The natural world is thrown unbalanced. Nature's archetypal cycles of defeat and rebellion are glorified in the Michelangelo duo; his vision elevates man's sexuality, instincts and battles to a nearly divine sphere. Freeman plunges them to an abyss of joyless inevitability.

His two blood-coloured elk are helpless, unaware what awaits the victor and the vanquished. Their powerful weapons of survival and procreation have spread like malignant tumours.

The proudly bellowing victorious elk, no matter how fierce or potent, is doomed to extinction.

hris Craddock's adaptation of The Velveteen Rabbit has returned to the lovely Capitol Theatre for another year of contributing to Edmonton's holiday season. The story is what it has always been—a classic tale of uninhibited childhood imagination— but Capitol Theatre's presentation of the beloved story offers a little more.

Three narratives are artfully woven together in this rendition: a father

speaking through the fourth wall to an empathetic audience of parents, a father reading a story to his child, and of course, the traditional story of The Velveteen Rabbit itself.

Craddock's writing presents a layer of reflection on the journey of parenthood that seemed to really resonate with the parents in the audience. The overlapping of the book's story with the tale of a present-day father and daughter allows the modern viewer to relate in novel ways without diminishing the traditional whimsy of this '20s tale. Technically, however, the pacing of the show left much to be desired.

Craddock's fantastic writing is clouded

SALIHA CHATTOO

// SALIHA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

PREVUE // DANCE

The Nutcracker Fri, Dec 14 – Sun, Dec 16 (7 pm; 1:30 pm matinee Sat and Sun) Northern Jubilee Auditorium, $29 – $106

A

lberta Ballet's lavish production of The Nutcracker has become a mainstay amongst A Christmas Carol and the like in audiences' holiday lineup, the multi-million dollar spectacle combining Tchaikovsky's classic score with the vision of Emmy Award-winning designer Zack Brown to create an opulent and captivating escape from reality.

"There's this part of it that's just returning to the old favou-

rites and rekindling the magic," says Blair Puente, company manager of the Alberta Ballet. "You have to always remember there are young children in the audience who have not seen it before and that's why we do this show."

Amongst these children once was Tara Williamson, this year dancing the part of the Snow Tsarina who aids the Nutcracker and Clara after their battle with The Rat King.

"It was the first ballet I ever saw, which is the same for a lot

AGNIESZKA MATEJKO

// AGNIESZKA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

The reactions from the children in the audience as the toys come to life and tell their story is one of the show's greatest rewards. The puppeteering of the toys ranged from confusing to enthralling; in the case of the former, the layered voice the actors give the toy robot makes it nearly impossible to tell what he's saying, but in the case of the latter, the animations of the kindly horse and the velveteen rabbit were artfully executed. My favourite scene remains the same as it was last year— the puppets used to depict real rabbits are wonderful, and their conversation with the velveteen rabbit as they urge him to play alongside them pulls you quickly and constantly between sadness and joy.

This stage-worthy version of The Velveteen Rabbit is a sure bet as far as family outings go this holiday season. It's lovely, really, to leave the theatre filled with the palatable kind of holiday gooeyness that can only come from witnessing a classic.

of kids. The Nutcracker is usually an introduction into the ballet world and the dance world," says Williamson, who has been dancing since age three and is now in her seventh season with Alberta Ballet. "I used to watch it on TV all the time for Christmas and as the TV was going I would put my nutcracker in the tree and dance around it as if I were Clara. I just love the music and there's always been a strong connection to The Nutcracker for myself and I think for a lot of kids."

In school, Williamson was able to take her living room performances to the stage when she was cast the role of Clara. Since then, in both her amateur and now professional career, she has embodied numerous other characters, including the Sugar Plum Fairy.

"I think with any new role, you take it on and you do the best you can with it ... it's great with The Nutcracker because there's a lot of different characters and there's different styles with the Spanish and the Arabian.

They're all different types of movement so it's nice being versatile," Williamson notes, adding that each night a dancer's role changes within the cast. "People get to see a variety of styles and it's just a good story and very heart warming."

MEAGHAN BAXTER

A holiday classic en pointe

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

ARTS 31

REVUE // THEATRE

PREVUE // GRAPHIC NOVEL

A Christmas Carol

Road To Ruin Rootin' for The Bad Guys // Bob Prodor

Christmas past, present and future // Epic Photography

Until Sun, Dec 23 (7:30 pm; 1:30 pm matinee Sat and Sun) Directed by Bob Baker and Geoffrey Brumlik Citadel Theatre, $36.75 – $89.25

A

fter 13 years, it's safe to say the cast and crew at the Citadel know a thing or two about A Christmas Carol.

Charles Dickens' story is executed with the precision of a well-oiled machine, with seamless transitions of the extravagantly designed set to portray Christ-

mas past, present and future. Stunning visuals and effects aside—particularly in the case of a ghostly Jacob Marley and a larger-than-life Spirit of Christmas Yet To Come—the cast is what drives the production home, giving it heart and a whopping dose of Christmas spirit.

Of course, A Christmas Carol would be nothing without Ebenezer Scrooge, and James MacDonald—no stranger to the stage or the story—is impeccable as the cantankerous old grumbler. MacDonald carries off his character's humbug-sling-

ing temperament with ease and verisimilitude, punctuated with a little unintentional humour before his character's inevitable redemption.

The rest of the cast, including Julien Arnold as an entertaining Bob Cratchit and Seth Dembowski as the endearing Tiny Tim, shine just as brightly in their respective roles, resulting in a performance that has the potential to warm even the most "bah, humbug" of Christmas spirits.

MEAGHAN BAXTER

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

Fri, Dec 14 (8 pm) With Concealer Zenari's Wine Bar Now available

By Bob Prodor Rosencrantz/Bayeaux 128 pp, $14.95

T

hese are not the good guys—not even close.

Road to Ruin, the latest graphic novel from local artist and writer Bob Prodor, getting its official launch party on Friday, journeys back to the '60s with a motley crew of badasses known as The Bad Guys.

They travel around the US robbing banks, evading authorities and causing all kinds of havoc. Their journey has a purpose, however: to meet a mysterious contact on the west coast. Each member of the group possesses an equally mysterious past, not to mention their own super power. Hot on their tails are two FBI agents considering calling in some backup in the form of the Masters, a league of monstrous super heroes.

"They were my X-Men," Prodor explains of The Bad Guys, who he began drawing early versions of in high school.

Their look has evolved over the years, from subtle super hero references to Reservoir Dogs sophistication.

This evolution eventually tied in a subtext of the evolution of superheroes, going back to the early days when the Justice League was at its inception and the characters were flying around in brightly coloured spandex.

"The Bad Guys, Road to Ruin is kind of what I think should have happened to superheroes," Prodor explains, adding the Masters in the story represent the old-school approach while The Bad Guys represent the next generation. "It developed into this subtext about art, like

32 ARTS

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

people get comfortable in their art and then some punks come out of left field and do something completely radical ...

Road to Ruin is a bit of a commentary on art in that kind of way as well."

Road to Ruin has been 10 years in the making, the lengthy time period due mostly to Prodor relocating several times within Vancouver, then back to Edmonton and one final time within the city, plus squeezing in drawing time around a full-time job. Over its years of development, Prodor admits he's surprised himself with some of the things he's created.

"I don't know if I would really draw something like that now. As you get older you're like, 'Ew, you blew his head up?' That's awful," he laughs.

"The Bad Guys have to do stuff like that. They have to smoke and drink and screw, y'know?"

Despite some of its darker themes and content, Road to Ruin represents another high point for Prodor in his journey as an artist and storyteller. It marks a chapter in his self-published Wine, Women and Song collection, as well as an artistic departure from some of the more "repetitive drawing" he was doing previously. Prodor wanted to tackle action scenes and challenge himself, which is exactly what Road to Ruin did.

"I'm yearning to get back to that now, to really do some slice-of-life stories, but at the time I was like, man, I've really got to try and flex the old artistic muscles," he adds.

Expect those muscles to be flexed even further in 2013 with the release of Prodor's next project, tentatively titled South of Heaven, a Paradise Lost-inspired tale of a time traveller trapped in prehistoric times, who finds that dragons really did exist.

MEAGHAN BAXTER

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

ARTS WEEKLY FAX YOUR FREE LISTINGS TO 780.426.2889 OR EMAIL LISTINGS@VUEWEEKLY.COM DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 3PM

DANCE ALBERTA BALLET–The Nutcracker • Jubilee Auditorium, 11455-87 Ave, 780.428.4589 • Choreography by Edmund Stripe, music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, conductor Peter Dala with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra • Dec 14-16 • Tickets start: $29, at albertaballet.com

DANCE MOVES • City Hall Main Foyer • Fitness with a Flair: 15th Annual Feed The Food Bank Charity Class • Dec 19, 7-9pm • Free, donation to Food Bank

ENTRELACEMENT: PREMIERE • Avenue Theatre, 9030-118 Ave • Entrelacement: An evening of contemporary dance exploring themes of translation, digression, and stories within stories presented by Edmonton's newest group of young dancers. Direction/ choreography by Tatiana Cheladyn • Dec 15, 7:30pm • $10 (adult)/$7 (student/senior)

PUBLIC YALDA NIGHT (WINTER SOLSTICE) CELEBRATION • Ramada Conference Centre, 11834 Kingsway • A night of celebration featuring Iman Sani and His Fantastic Music Band, Araz Music and Dance Ensemble Persian, Azari, Kordi, Latin DJ music, Mimi Ghazaal Belly Dance • Dec 21, 7pm-1am, 6pm (door) • $35 (adult)/$15 (child 5-12)/$300 (group of ten, students 10% off ) tickets at Mini Super Pars, Bijan Optical, HUB Mall, Babak 780.716.4437

STERS: Beasts and Fantastic Creatures in Early European Prints; until Mar 3 • IMPRINT: A selection of print-making artists, whose work reveals an attention to different print-making technique, as well as an interrelationship; until Jan 6 • EDO: Arts of Japan’s Last Shogun Age: a wide variety of Edo period art forms with focus on prints known as ‘ukiyo-e’; until Feb 10 • PAUL FREEMAN: feature two life-size casts of stags whose antlers seem to have turned against them; until Feb 10 • Adult Drop-in: Cast: Plaster Sculpture: Dec 13; Splash: Large Scale Rhythm Painting: Dec 20 • Art for Lunch: Theatre Foyer: Casual and informative discussions about AGA exhibitions, 3rd Thu each month • The EDO Talks: Art of the Rulers: The Kano and Tosa Schools, with Professor Walter Davis; Dec 19, 7pm; $15/$10 (member) • BMO All Day Sunday: Holiday Extravaganza: Create holiday-themed artworks, build your own animal sculpture; interactive storytelling; Dec 16, 12-4pm; free with admission

ART GALLERY OF ST ALBERT (AGSA) • 19 Perron St, St Albert, 780.460.4310 • GAME PIECES: Paintings by Margaret Witschl • Until Feb 2 ART SOCIETY OF STRATHCONA COUNTY • Loft Gallery, 590 Broadmoor Blvd, Sherwood Park • Artwork by society members, and a gift shop of artist made items; open Oct-Dec, Feb-Jul

BRINSMEAD KENNEDY GALLERY • 10434122 St • Naturally Abstract: artwork by David Blaine, featuring abstract images discovered in natural environments • Until Feb 28

BUGERA MATHESON GALLERY • 12310 Jasper Ave, 780.482.2854 • CHRISTMAS CHEER: featuring works by gallery artists that inspire romance, nostalgia, comfort and joy • Through Dec

CAFÉ HAVEN–Sherwood Park • 9 Sioux Rd,

FILM

Sherwood Park • NVSart is featured • Sep-Jan

BAILEY THEATRE–Camrose • A Christmas

CHRISTL BERGSTROM'S RED GALLERY • 9621-82 Ave, 780.498.1984 • Experiencing the City–Portraits of Edmonton Street Life • Until Dec 31

Carol; Dec 17, 7pm; $5 (door)

CINEMA AT THE CENTRE • Library Theatre, Stanley A. Milner Library basement, 7 Sir Winston Churchill Sq, 780.496.7000 • Centre for Reading and the Arts • Nature's Invitation (Canada, STC); Dec 19, 6:30pm

FROM BOOKS TO FILM • Stanley A. Milner Library Audio Visual Room (main floor), 7 Sir Winston Churchill Sq, 780.496.7000 • epl.ca • Films adapted from books every Fri, 2pm • The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002, 14A); Dec 14, 2pm • The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King; part 1 (2003, 14A); Dec 21, 2pm

METRO CINEMA • 8712-109 St • Local comedian Jon Mick's celebratory Saint Mick’s Muletide Extravaganza with music by Renny Wilson and Liam Trimble, film clips, Capital City Burlesque and more • Dec 13, 7pm (door) • $10-$12 at Blackbyrd Myoozic, Permanent Records, door

UP FOR DISCUSSION: A FILM SERIES • Stanley Milner Library Theatre • epl.ca • Film screening, and a lively exploration of current and timely topics of concern • Mary and Max (2009, PG): Dec 13, 6:30pm; Autism Society of Edmonton Area will be in attendance

VARSCONA THEATRE • 10329-83 Ave • Three showings of The Best Little Newfoundland Christmas Pageant … Ever • Dec 21-23, 7:30pm • $18-$20 at door, TIX on the Square

GALLERIES + MUSEUMS ALBERTA CRAFT COUNCIL GALLERY • 10186-106 St, 780.488.6611 • albertacraft.ab.ca • Feature Gallery: PASSAGES: a group exhibition exploring the passage of time; until Dec 24

ALBERTA SOCIETY OF ARTISTS GALLERY • Walterdale Playhouse, 10322-83 Ave, 780.426.0072 • FESTIVE SPIRIT: Artworks by ASA members • Until Dec 15 in conjunction with the play The Misanthrope

ALLIED ARTS COUNCIL OF SPRUCE GROVE • Spruce Grove Art Gallery, 35-5 Ave, Spruce Grove , 962.0664 • Christmas Store and Gala: Art and crafts by members • Until Dec 22

ARTERY • 9535 Jasper Ave • AV ART SHOW #7: Works by Alana LaRose, AJA Louden, Jennie Vegt, Adriean Koleric. Music by Burrows, Jenie Thai, DJ OJ Pimpson • Dec 15, 7:30pm (door) • $10 (adv at YEGlive)/$15 (door)

ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA (AGA) • 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq, 780.422.6223 • BMO Work of Creativity: METHOD AND MADNESS: Family-focused interactive exhibition created by Gabe Wong; until Dec 31 • BEHIND THIS LIES MY TRUE DESIRE FOR YOU: Mark Clintberg; until Dec 30 • MISLED BY NATURE: CONTEMPORARY ART AND THE BAROQUE: Key artists include David Altmejd, Lee Bul, Bharti Kher, Tricia Middleton, Yinka Shonibare, Sarah Sze; until Jan 6 • BEAUTIFUL MON-

CENTRE D’ARTS VISUELS DE L’ALBERTA (CAVA) • 9103-95 Ave, 780.461.3427 • MINATURES AND MORE • Until Dec 21

CITY HALL • Sir Winston Churchill Sq • EDMONTON 1981: WHO IS THIS?: Street portraits/photographs from the T5J area downtown from the recently published book at first glance: photographs by D. Wall (dwrgpress.ca) • Until Dec 14

COMMON SENSE GALLERY • 10546-115 St • COLORING BOOK: Solo exhibit of sculptures by Walter Early • Until Dec 15

CROOKED POT GALLERY–Stony Plain • 4912-51 Ave, Stony Plain , 963.9573 • CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS: featuring handmade and wheel thrown holiday décor, and handmade tree decorations • Until Dec 28

DAFFODIL GALLERY • 10412-124 St, 760.1278 • daffodilgallery.ca • 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS: Featuring gallery artists • Through Dec DC3 ART PROJECTS • 10567-111 St • c3artprojects.com • Open: Thu-Fri 6-9pm; Sat 11am-6pm • SELECTED MUTATIONS: A survey of the work of Paul Freeman • BERTH: Sculptural installation by Mitch Mitchell • Until Jan 26, 6pm

EXPRESSIONZ CAFÉ • 9938-70 Ave • Olive Tree Project, Peg Barcelo-Jackson, Ginette D'Silva, Alice Dolphin, Dara Loewen • Ongoing

FAB GALLERY • Department of Art and Design, U of A, Rm 1-1 Fine Arts Bldg , 492.2081 • EMERGENCE: Works by Nika Blasser, the final visual presentation for the degree of master of fine arts in Drawing and Intermedia; until Jan 12; reception: Dec 13, 7-10pm • STROKER: Mackenzy Albright: Final visual presentation for Master of Fine Arts in Drawing and Intermedia; until Dec 23, Jan 3-12; reception: Dec 13, 7-10pm • Closed Dec 24-Jan 2

FRONT GALLERY • 12312 Jasper Ave, 780.488.2952 • CHRISTMAS KEEPSAKES: Group Show; through Dec

GALLERIE PAVA • 9524-87 St, 780.461.3427 • Artworks by Michel Allen • Until Jan 16

GALLERY 7 • Bookstore on Perron, 7 Perron St, St. Albert , 459.2525 • EXUBERANCE: Oil paintings by Gail Seemann • Until Dec 21

GALLERY AT MILNER • Stanley A. Milner Library Main Fl, Sir Winston Churchill Sq, 780.944.5383 • STARS: Linocut prints by Cheryl Anhel • Until Dec 31 • Meet the artist: Cheryl Anhel will be speaking about her print making process; Dec 13, 12-1pm HAPPY HARBOR COMICS V1 • 10729-104 Ave • COMIC JAM: Improv comic art making the 1st and 3rd Thu each month, 7pm • OPEN

DOOR: Collective of independent comic creators meet the 2nd & 4th Thu each month, 7am • Comics Artist-in-Residence: with Kyle Sams; Every Fri 12-6pm and Sat 12-5pm; until Apr

STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition: explores the amazing nature of human identity through the magic of the Star Wars universe and its legendary characters; until Apr 1

HARCOURT HOUSE GALLERY • 3 Fl, 10215112 St • Main Gallery: IN MATERIAL: Works

by Marie de Sousa • Front Room Gallery: ROOTED: Works by Corey Hardeman • Until Jan 18

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA MUSEUMS • En-

JEFF ALLEN GALLERY • Strathcona Place Seniors Centre, 10831 University Ave • OUR WORLD ART SHOW: Works by Joyce Boyer, Dessirrie Plewis, Elaine Tweedy, Sylvia Godina • Until Dec 19

JOHNSON GALLERY • 7711-85 St, 780.465.6171 • New works by Ada Wong, Yardley Jones, George Weber, Illingworth Kerr, Alex Halliburtron and Noboru Kubo (pottery) • Through Dec-Jan JURASSIC FOREST/LEARNING CENTRE • 15 mins N of Edmonton off Hwy 28A, Township Rd 564 • Education-rich entertainment facility for all ages

KING’S UNIVERSITY COLLEGE • 9125-50 St • IMMIgRANT: Paintings and installation piece

by Rosemary Sloot • Mon-Fri, 8:30am-4:30pm; until Jan 15 LELDE MUEHLENBACHS STUDIO • 960445 Ave • You have waited long enough…: Retrospective, paintings, photos, eggnog • Dec 15, 1-7pm

MANDOLIN BOOKS • 6419-112 Ave • nvsart. ca • NVSART: Textured abstract art; Oct-Jan

MCMULLEN GALLERY • U of A Hospital, 8440-112 St, 780.407.7152 • REFUGE: PRINTED IMPRESSIONS: Group exhibition of graduate Printmaking students and staff from the U of A Printmaking Department • Until Jan 13

MISERICORDIA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL • Main Floor halls, 16940-87 Ave, 780.432.6678; wands@web.net • Edmonton Art Club Show and Sale • Until Jan 26

MULTICULTURAL CENTRE PUBLIC ART GALLERY (MCPAG)–Stony Plain • 541151 St, Stony Plain, 780.963.9935 • TWICE REMOVED: Works by Brenda Kim Christiansen • Until Jan 2

MUSÉE HÉRITAGE MUSEUM–St Albert • 5 St Anne St, St Albert, 780.459.1528 • WIND WORK, WIND PLAY: WEATHERVANES AND WHIRLIGIGS: Wind-powered folk art from the collection of the Canadian Museum of Civilization • Until Jan 13 NAESS GALLERY • Paint Spot, 10032-81 Ave, 780.432.0240 • paintspot.ca • ALIGNMENT: Paintings by Sandra Kunz • Until Dec 31

NINA HAGG7ERTY–Stollery Gallery • 9225118 Ave, 780.474.7611 • BOUND FOR GLORY: Handmade, altered, and transformed books • Until Jan 6

PETER ROBERTSON GALLERY • 12304 Jasper Ave, 780.455.7479 • Group exhibitions: Artworks by gallery artists; • Until Mar 23

PROPAGANDA HAIR SALON • 10808-124 St • THE MODEL, THE MYSTIC AND THE MUSCLE: 11 new paintings by outro • Until Jan 12

PROVINCIAL ARCHIVES OF ALBERTA • 8555 Roper Rd, 780.427.1750 • THE PEOPLE WHO BUILT ALBERTA: A Centennial for Alberta Workers: examining labour’s role in the growth and prosperity of the province • Until Dec 21

ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM • 12845-102 Ave, 780.453.9100 • FASHIONING FEATHERS: Dead Birds, Millinery Craft and the Plumage Trade; curated by Merle Patchett and Liz Gomez, show examines the effect of fashion's demand for beautiful feathers on bird populations at the beginning of the twentieth century; until Jan 6 • THE TSARS' CABINET: Two Hundred Years of Russian Decorative Arts under the Romanovs; until Jan 2

ST JOHN’S INSTITUTE • 11024-82 Ave • PRAIRIE DREAMSCAPES: REIMAGINING OUR ROOTS: Alberta launch of art exhibit by the Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts • Until Jan 19

SCOTT GALLERY • 10411-124 St, 780.488.3619 • PANFORTE: Artworks by Douglas Haynes, Kelly Krueger, Gabor Nagy, Robert Sinclair, Marianne Watchel, the Selfridges • Until Dec 22

SNAP GALLERY • Society Of Northern Al-

terprise Square, 10230 Jasper Ave, 780.492.5834 • PERCEPTIONS OF PROMISE: BIOTECHNOLOGY, SOCIETY AND ART: until Jan 5 • PASSION PROJECT: until Jan 26 • IMMORTAL BEAUTY: The work of 84-year-old master calligrapher Shiko Kataoka; until Jan 26 • PERCEPTIONS OF PROMISE: BIOTECHNOLOGY, SOCIETY AND ART: challenging viewers to consider the positive and negative possibilities of biotechnology in general and stem cell research in particular; until Jan 5 • The Biomedicalized Body: Curator's Talk with Lianne McTavish, discussing how conceptions of the human body have changed since the Renaissance; noon-hour talk for the exhibition Perceptions of Promise: Biotechnology, Society and Art

VAAA GALLERY • 3rd Fl, 10215-112 St, 780.421.1731 • URBAN ANIMALS: Works by Jason Carter: Paintings exploring urban vs. natural environment • Until Jan 19. Closed Dec 22-Jan 9

VASA GALLERY • 25 Sir Winston Churchill Ave, St. Albert , 460.5990 • vasa.ca • WET PAINT: Small artworks by VASA artists • Until Feb 2 WEST END GALLERY • 12308 Jasper Ave, 780.488.4892 • WINTER COLLECTION: New works by Claudette Castonguay, Fraser Brinsmead, Arianne Dubois, Brent R. Laycock and others • Through Dec

LITERARY ARTERY • 9535 Jasper Ave, 780.441.6966 • Literary Saloon: reading series the 2nd Thu each month; Oct-May, 7pm (door)

AUDREYS BOOKS • 107 St, Jasper Ave • audreys.ca • Marty Chan's book launch of Squatchmas • Dec 15, 3-5pm BRITTANY'S LOUNGE • 10225-97 St • Book Launch party celebrate the launch of Marv Machura's new book: Wonder, A Collection of Poetry • Dec 20, 7pm

CARROT COMMUNITY ARTS COFFEEHOUSE • 9351-118 Ave • Prose Creative Writing Group • Every Tue, 7-9pm

HAVEN SOCIAL CLUB • 15120 Stony Plain Rd, 915.8869 • Edmonton Story Slam: writers share their original, 5-min stories; followed by a music jam • 3rd Wed each month, 7pm (signup); 7:30pm (show) • $5

ROUGE LOUNGE • 10111-117 St, 780.902.5900 • Poetry every Tue with Edmonton's local poets

T.A.L.E.S.–STRATHCONA • New Strathcona Library, 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park , 400.3547 • Monthly Tellaround: 4th Wed each month 7pm • Free

T.A.L.E.S. TELLAROUND • Bogani Café, 2023-111 St • Come to share a story, or to listen; hosted by Dawn Blue; 7-9pm; free; 2nd Wed each month UPPER CRUST CAFÉ • 10909-86 Ave, 780.422.8174 • The Poets’ Haven Weekly Reading Series: every Mon, 7pm; Presented by the Stroll of Poets Society • Dec 17 • $5

bury Theatre, TransAlta Arts Barns, 10330-84 Ave, 780.409.1910 • A musical interpretation of Dickens’ classic tale and features original songs written from the perspectives of the various characters • Dec 28-29 • $40 (door)/$35 (adv)

A CHRISTMAS STORY • Bailey Theatre, Camrose • Presented by the Churchmice Players • Family Night: Dec 13, 7:30pm, $20/$50 (family); Dinner Theatre: Dec 14-15, 6pm (door), 6:30pm (dinner), 7:30pm (show), $46; Dec 15, 1:30pm; $20 • Tickets at Cathel Books DIE-NASTY • Varscona Theatre, 10329-83 Ave, 780.433.3399 • The live improvised soap opera • Every Mon, until May, 7:30pm (subject to change) • Tickets at the box office

LIONEL BART’S OLIVER • Festival Place, 100 Festival Way, Sherwood Park • Dec 19-30 • $36 (adult)/$24 (child) at the Festival Place box office, Ticketmaster THE MISANTHROPE • Walterdale Playhouse, 10322-83 Ave • When a playwright with the “unfashionable habit of speaking his mind” becomes enamoured with a self-serving American film star, the results unveil the deception and decadence of the modern High Court • Until Dec 15 NCIS • Jubilations Dinner Theatre, 8882-170 St, WEM, 780.484.2424 • jubilations.ca • Dr. Ducky and his colleague from Los Angeles, Hetty, are off to Canada to attend a conference with the Royal Canadian Navy Investigative Services, where they run into trouble. Ducky is accused of committing murder and has been given until the end of the conference to prove his innocence • Until Jan 26

THE SNOW GLOBE FEFSTIVAL OF CHILDREN'S THEATRE • C103, Catalyst Theatre, 8529 Gateway Blvd, 780.431.1750 • Presented

by Promise Productions, three productions: The classic and upbeat music of Babes In Toyland, the sword flying adventure of Robin Hood, and the world premiere of the heart warming Birdie On the Wrong Bus by Ellen Chorley • Dec 18-22 • Single tickets: $10 (child)/$12 (adult) at TIX on the Square; Festival Passes at catalysttheatre.ca • BIRDIE ON THE WRONG BUS: Dec 18, 1pm; Dec 20, 10am, 1pm; Dec 21, 10am • ROBIN HOOD: by Kathryn Schultz Miller; Dec 19, 10am, 1pm; Dec 21, 1pm • BABES IN TOYLAND: Book by Rebecca Ryland, music/lyrics by Bill Francoeur; Dec 18, 8:30pm; Dec 19, 6:30pm; Dec 20, 7:30pm; Dec 21, 7pm; Dec 22, 8pm

OH SUSANNA! • Varscona Theatre • 10329-83 Ave, 780.433.3399 • The Euro-style variety spectacle with Susanna Patchouli and her divine co-host Eros, God of Love! Laughs! Music!

Cocktails! • Dec 22, 11pm

THEATRESPORTS • Citadel Theatre, 9828101A Ave • Improv • Every Fri, 7:30pm and 10pm THE VELVETEEN RABBIT • Capitol Theatre, Fort Edmonton • The charming story of imagination, transformation and growing up • Dec 14-16, 18-19, 21-24 WITH BELLS ON • Roxy Theatre, 10708-124 St • Presented by Guys in Disguise and Theatre Network • Until Dec 23, 8pm; Sun at 2pm • Tickets at tickets.theatrenetwork.ca, TIX on the Square

WUNDERBAR ON WHYTE • 8120-101 St, 780.436.2286 • The poets of Nothing, For Now: poetry workshop and jam every Sun • No minors

THEATRE AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS • Holy Trinity Anglican, 10037-84 Ave • Charming Christmas story opera is written by American composer Giancarlo Menotti • Dec 20-21 • All ages • $15 (adult)/$5 (child) at door

THE BEST LITTLE NEWFOUNDLAND CHRISTMAS PAGEANT...EVER! • Varscona Theatre, 10329-83 Ave, 780.433.3399 • By Barbara Robinson. A Newfoundland Christmas tradition presented by Whizgiggling Productions featuring Kayla Gorman, Natalie Czar Gummer, Mary Hulbert, Byron Martin, Eric Wigston, Lindsey Walker • Dec 20-23, 7:30pm • $20 (adult)/$18 (senior/student/child under 15) at door, Varscona, at TIX on the Square

CHIMPROV • Citadel Theatre, 9828-101A

berta Print-Artists, 10123-121 St, 780.423.1492 • Main Gallery: MEMBERS SHOW & SALE: until Dec 20

Ave • Rapid Fire Theatre’s longform comedy show: improv formats, intricate narratives, and one-act plays • 1st three Sat each month, 10pm, until Jul • $12 (door/adv at TIX on the Square)

STRATHCONA COUNTY GALLERY@501

A CHRISTMAS CAROL • Citadel Theatre,

• 501 Festival Ave, Sherwood Park , 410.8585 • strathcona.ca/artgallery • PHOTOGRAPHY IN A STATE OF EXCEPTION: Documents of Contemporary War; until Dec 21 • The Wordless Book and other deserts; until Dec 21

9828-101A Ave, 780.425.1820 • Adapted by Tom Wood. Directed by Bob Baker and Geoffrey Brumlik. Based on the story by Charles Dickens • Until Dec 23, Sat matinee: Dec 22, 1:30pm • Tickets start at $35 at the Citadel box office

TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE • 11211-142 St •

THE CHRISTMAS CAROL PROJECT • West-

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MORE THAN ART Give membership in Edmonton’s oldest artist-run gallery.

Like Edmonton, we’re growing. www.latitude53.org

ARTS 33

MUSIC

COVER // CELEBRATION ROCK

A celebration of life

post-nothing Japandroids builds its own rock mythology city by city, one stage at a time Wed, Dec (8 pm) With Mac DeMarco Starlite Room, sold out

'W

ill we find our way back home?" goes the chorus of the first song on Japandroids' debut album, Post-Nothing. It's one of just two lyrics in the song; the other, "the boys are leaving town," doubles as the track's title, and besides a hearty 'whoa-oh-ah' cry punctuating the chorus, that's the full extent of wordplay in its four-minute runtime. But that lyrical simplicity gets channeled through the punkish rock 'n' roll duo's fervoured delivery, and in its repetition it becomes a thrilling declaration of a band speeding headlong into the void, choosing to go it at the breakneck pace of reckless youth. Japandroids' songs recollect the kind of nights you wake up after with a thundering hangover, the ones you spent it with in a similar state, but all of you ready to go it again—songs for burnouts, not the fade-aways.

To invoke a YOLO would miss the deeper sentiment at play here: these songs are about having a mythology you can shout along to as you build one for yourself. "You can keep tomorrow / After tonight we're not gonna need it," goes a line on "Young Hearts Spark Fire," and it's there, in the sense of massive celebration fending off the knowledge that this can't last forever, that the band rises. Entrenched in sweeping punk guitars and cyclone drumming, the sentiment feels vital, even as it threatens to combust in on itself at any moment.

In that way, Japandroids' music matches the tumult of the band's biography. At the time that guitarist/vocalist Brian King and drummer David Prowse were recording PostNothing, Japandroids was just as likely to vanish into the ether as last beyond 2009. The band broke up right before the album's release, in fact, frustrated by a lack of reception and a dawning realization that this might be it. King and Prose agreed to put the album out, mostly for themselves, and then move on.

"When we stopped, we were gonna start other bands, I think," King says, post-nap at a tour stop in Seattle.

34 MUSIC

"Maybe not together, but just do something else. If you think about it, most of the bands that Dave and I really like, [for] none of the people that played in those bands it was their first band. Or very rarely. Usually people played in a few bands before they got to the band that actually found some success. So for us, [Japandroids] was our first band: we just considered it to be one of those bands in that line of succession. It was fun, we did a lot of the things that we set out to do, and now we'll try it again, and maybe if we get lucky, eventually one of these combinations will find some sort of success. I never really considered doing anything else except starting another one. It just didn't get far enough to actually get something going."

Except something did get going: PostNothing exploded over the Internet.

The kingmakers at Pitchfork awarded it the much-lauded Best New Music honour, and praise started flooding in.

Touring, or at least one tour, became a viable reality, and suddenly King and Prowse found their band, previously destined for the void, with a reprieve.

"Things happened really fast," King says. "You have to understand, for us, more happened in about three days than had happened in the previous three years. So it was really like, 'OK, let's 'get back together' and see just what happens. Let's give it a few months, let's start practising again, let's book a few shows and just see what comes of this. Our sole goal of doing that was, 'It would be cool if we could turn this attention into being able to do a tour.' That was one of the only things, originally, that we'd never done that was on our list of things we really wanted to do in the band. And we're talking like one west coast tour, or one Canadian tour. That was what we wanted to do. It was a very shortterm ambition."

Japandroids has lasted beyond that, though, at least into another album/ touring cycle. Celebration Rock, the band's Post-Nothing follow up, takes that record's same core elements and pushes them further into the metred red. The choruses are bigger, the urgency seems greater and its vision is

clearer, as reflected in the title: it's an ode to the thrill of still being here, in spite of it all.

That's a modern rock 'n' roll mythology at play in that approach, something that's increasingly rare to find when you can follow an artist's every move across a full spread of social media platforms.

"That's only something that's become possible in the recent past," King says. "Prior to that, the rock mythology played an integral role in how a fan shapes their perception of a band they like. If I was interested in a band, growing up, I would buy the record, and so the information that was contained within the record I would know.

I would possibly buy some magazines—if the band was big enough to be in magazines—and I would know maybe something about that. I could buy a poster for my wall, I could catch them on TV, maybe, if they were big enough for that. And if not, your imagination had to fill in all the blanks. Your word of mouth: if your friend told you about a band, they might tell you a story they heard about the band, and that's maybe what you'd know, aside from what was on the record cover. ... If a band wasn't big enough to be played on MuchMusic, they probably also weren't big enough to be in a magazine that I could buy in the town where I was from. Then all I would have is something my friend would tell me, and what's on the record cover.

"So the idea of mythology building via word of mouth, and in a really organic way, and these things getting around, and someone telling someone else—the whole idea of the rock mythology is dead, or dying, in a certain sense," he continues. "Because I can hear something, and I can literally

Wikipedia everything I want to know about the band in about 10 seconds, and then go to their Twitter page and find out what they had for breakfast.

There is no mythology, in a way."

Still, King seems focused on maintaining some semblance of that for his band. And, for better or worse, he's managed it: aside from the prePost band breakup, King almost died on tour when an untreated stomach ulcer perforated.

In its aftermath, he admits he isn't taking much better care of himself.

"I'm back to my ... debaucherous ways, you might say," he states. "The big difference being I just know what the warning signs are, so I can rein it in when I start to feel the warning signs, whereas before I didn't understand what was happening, so I let it get very, very bad before I decided to start paying attention to what was going on. I'm not that stupid anymore."

It isn't lost on King that the celebratory, fleeting nights he sings about are likely the same sorts of celebratory, fleeting nights audiences are looking to make a Japandroids show into, and its something he tries to reflect back from the stage. Because, to him, all of this is still temporary. King isn't sure if another Japandroids album will follow Celebration Rock (somewhat famously, the band hates recording; both albums have a bare-minimum eight songs on them). He isn't cementing any future plans, outside of embracing the moment at hand. So this might really be it: the boys may find their way home, but they may never come back again either. And the elated tension of that uncertainty is

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

what Japandroids is looking to convey.

"On this tour, we have no plans to tour back to most of these cities—right now, we don't have any plans," he says. "We played Portland last night. We have no other Portland date coming up in the near future.

Now, maybe there will be, and maybe there won't. But the idea that we don't have one, and we don't know if we're gonna come back to Portland, and the idea of walking out onstage being like, this may actually be the last time that Japandroids ever plays Portland—so it better be pretty damn good. That's the way we approach shows: we're coming to Edmonton, and it's been a while since we played Edmonton. I'm trying to think ... 2010.

So by the time we get there, it will be over two full years since we played Edmonton. So that idea that we had last time we played there, that I don't know when we're going to come back to Edmonton, I don't know if we're going to come back—we better make it really awesome. That was the attitude we would've walked out on stage with in Edmonton, and played the way that we play because of that idea. That's what we would've given to the audience that night.

"We ended up coming back, but it's over two years later," he continues.

"So we know it could be another two full years before we come back again, if we do. So there'll be no reason to not have the same attitude when we play there again. That's kind of how the band rolls every night, especially on tour. And that's what gives us that feeling, and gives the audience the performance, and transfers it to them. So that every night, hopefully, people are going to have that experience when they come to see our band. We're giving them as much as we can toward that experience."

PAUL BLINOV

// PAUL@VUEWEEKLY.COM

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MUSIC 35

PREVUE // ROCK

The Sheepdogs Fri, Nov 14 (8 pm) Edmonton Event Centre, $29 – $38.25

N

Bringing back the old school //

Vanessa Heins

ot so long ago, the Sheepdogs were among the masses of bands just trying to get noticed, pursuing a dream that few see transform into reality.

Turns out, that dream wasn't so unrealistic after all. Thanks to a Rolling Stone contest, the burly, bearded pack of relatively unknown rockers from Saskatoon, SK beat out 15 other acts to become the first unsigned band to grace the magazine's cover—and that was just the beginning. The win included a recording contract with Atlantic Records, launching the Sheepdogs towards superstar status over-

night. Gone are the days of scraping by with lackluster gigs, and records— once made on a laptop in lead singer Ewan Currie's basement—are now attracting heavy-hitter collaborations.

Looking back at the surreal experiences of the last year, Currie says one of the best aspects has been watching people connect with the Sheepdogs' music in the same way he did to the artists who inspired him.

"People are having those connections with our music. It's exactly why you get into music in the first place, I think," Currie says over the phone from somewhere in the Toronto area.

So what's it like going from touring in a beat-up van playing sparse crowds at a local dive bar to headlin-

ing masses that now number in the thousands? Turns out, it's pretty easy.

"We always view our show as we're getting paid for entertainment and we kind of look at it like we're bringing the party to whichever town we're coming to," Currie notes. "If the Sheepdogs are coming to your town, grab a beer and get ready to have a good time. You know, if it's a 20-person tiny hole in the wall or a thousand people or even a festival, it's the same thing.

We're going to just play our hearts out and just give people a show."

And that they do. In an era when fabricated music has become the mainstream norm, the Sheepdogs have brought back an old-school sound CONTINUED ON PAGE 37 >>

PREVUE // ROCK 'N' ROLL

Eamon McGrath

Crazy like the Horse

Thu, Dec 20 (9 pm) With Krang Wunderbar, $10

F

or all of their full-band muscularity, the records of Eamon McGrath have mostly been recorded by the man working alone. 2010's Peace Maker and 2012's Young Canadians had their bedtracks constructed with a drummer, but it was McGrath who took those skeletal outlines and gave them flesh, arranging the rest of the recorded parts to his personal satisfaction. The band factored in later, for tours and the physiological necessities of rock 'n' roll moreso than the album recording process.

But approaches shift with age, the developing chemistry of a good band where McGrath finds his head is at these days. When he picks up the phone for our interview, he's just back from seeing Neil Young & Crazy Horse play Montréal, and watching a band so unapologetically work as a cohesive unit seems to have confirmed an idea already simmering in his mind.

"I think that, even now, even after the '90s, even after Ragged Glory, after Sonic Youth opened for him, after all

36 MUSIC

that stuff, people are still only starting to realize how loud, heavy, weird and fucked up they are as a band," he says of the Young-Crazy Horse pairing. "They put Dinosaur Jr to shame, y'know? They're of that vein—they're a punk band. They always have been, and they're heavier and louder than all those bands that people think of when they think of that genre. There's parts of a Crazy Horse tour that sound like Wolf Eyes. You know what I mean?

You've got all these older [fans saying], 'play Heart of Gold!' It's like, dude, you're at a noise show. You're literally at a fucking hardcore punk show right now. He's not playing Heart of Gold.

You're watching a different band."

It's a level of cohesion that McGrath's prepping to apply to his own music. He wants to build his next release—tentatively slated in for next spring—with the band in tow, recording it live off the floor.

McGrath had a taste of the process earlier this year, when Toronto band Dearly Beloved hired him to cowrite and record an album live off the floor.

"So live off the floor," McGrath recalls, "that the band didn't even have

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

any songs written and arranged going into the session. They trusted me enough ... I'd ask Rob [Higgins], 'Why don't we get together and rehearse before we leave?' And he was like, 'I don't even want to. I want to just go down there, and I want you and I to just wake up in the morning, write a song, record it, have dinner, smoke a joint and then write another one and record it.' It was really spontaneous, and that's exactly what ended up happening. And the sound of the record is that: a lot of really good musicians playing together in a really comfortable, relaxed setting. It sounds really natural, it sounds like rock 'n' roll. It sounds like a good time.

"I've decided to try and make records that tap into that element of music a little more," he continues. "Where it's literally about pointing a microphone at the source and pressing record. What would it sound like if you had that band, be that good, playing in that room with you. That's how it would sound. Coming home from a Neil Young concert, and seeing Crazy Horse play, that's been their philosophy for 40 years. And when you see Crazy Horse play, it sounds like Crazy Horse. They're not screwing around at all—that's them. And I think that's really beautiful, and in a way—now that I'm older, I guess—that I didn't fully understand before. When I was younger, I would book a tour, and rehearse with a band two days before we went. We'd get in a van and just go and see what happened. That used to be really exciting. But now, I guess there's been enough disasters in that method that I don't really wanna. I'm not really interested in that anymore."

PAUL BLINOV

// PAUL@VUEWEEKLY.COM

PREVUE // HARDCORE

Alexisonfire Wed, Dec 19 (7 pm) Jingle Bell Rock 2012 Shaw Conference Centre, sold out

I

ences they could in the short window of time they had.

"We're still breaking up, and that doesn't sit well with some people, but I think that was kind of necessary to go out on a high note and at a point where we're all kind of past it and on to new things where we can just do something fun," Pettit adds.

"There's no pressure. We're not trying to promote a record; we're not trying to do anything. It's just playing the songs for the sake of the songs, celebrating the band for what it was and doing it with our fans."

t's been a decade since a little band from St Catherines, ON started to make a whole lot of noise around the world. Four full-length albums and countless miles on the road later, Alexisonfire is back in Edmonton to do it all one last time.

Following the end of Alexisonfire's last Canadian tour in 2010, guitarist and vocalist Dallas Green announced he would be leaving the band to focus solely on his solo effort City and Colour. The band decided not to make Personal conflicts and the split any sort of official announcement unaside, a decade in music is a comtil the rest of its members confirmed mendable milestone for any act Well guys, it's been fun // Vanessa Heins their own future plans and had a reto reach, particularly one such as placement for Green, with the original Alexisonfire—a band that first deably fit 200 people and they've got plan being to carry on with the band scribed its music as "the sound of 300 in there and it's sweaty and hot in a different form. Soon after, guitarist two Catholic high school girls in and you're kind of in and out of conWade MacNeil said he would be leavmid-knife fight." The stark contrast sciousness," recalls Pettit, who's one ing to focus on Gallows, and with two of Pettit's gravelly screams against to throw himself into a show and give members being difficult to replace, the Green's melodic vocals, wrapped into the crowd exactly what they came for. news that Alexisonfire would be splita well-executed package of tight, ag"You remember these really exotic ting up, broke to places you went to fans on August 5, ... it's a weird kind You're in a room that would probably fit 200 2011, citing perof collage of snappeople and they've got 300 in there and it's sonal differences shot memories of sweaty and hot and you're kind of in and out of as another factor weird places and consciousness. in the decision. fun times."

"It was a bad Alexis fans will feeling around those last few tours," gressive musicianship and intelligent, be left with a final EP, titled Death recalls frontman George Pettit over poignant lyrics, brought a sound that Letter—a project spearheaded by the phone in the midst of last-minute was far outside the norm for mainGreen and MacNeil, which takes preparation before the band took off stream music at that time. a small collection of some of the for London to kick off its farewell "We had such modest goals in the band's biggest hits and reinvents tour. "I don't really remember our last beginning. There wasn't much of a them into slowed down, slightly three tours as being really fun, posichance for us to do what we ended up somber acoustic versions of their tive things. They were more like a lot doing when we first started the band, former selves. As for Pettit, who has of doom and gloom around it. Then y'know? Like the type of music we also toured as part of the band Black we all walked away from it for a long were playing was very different and Lungs, he says music may continue time and I think we had all spent time very challenging at the time for a lot to be part of his future, but his head processing it and really thinking what of people and to think that it would is elsewhere at the moment. He the end of the band meant." get any kind of mainstream success plans on continuing his education, Before long, correspondence bewas beyond our wildest dreams," Petbut prefers to leave the details untween the band members started up tit notes with a sense of disbelief. der wraps for the time being. again. The initial idea was to do a fareThrough all the success and ups and Whatever the future holds, the last well show in Toronto, which quickly downs, what Pettit remembers most decade has been one hell of a ride for snowballed into revisiting some of the is being on the road.

Alexisonfire and it will no doubt be best places the band had played— "You remember the biggest shows missed by its legion of dedicated fans yep, Edmonton made the cut—and, as and you remember the worst shows around the globe.

MEAGHAN BAXTER Pettit puts it, spreading themselves as and you remember the craziest shows. // MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM thin as possible to reach as many audiYou're in a room that would prob-

THE SHEEPDOGS

<< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36

going back to the days of the Allman Brothers and good old rock 'n' roll.

"We try to make music that first and foremost we enjoy that's fun to play, it's fun to hear and, hopefully, it's diverse.

I like an album that's diverse and has different colours and different tones," Currie says of the mind-set the band has maintained when it comes to making music, despite its newfound fame.

For its self-titled debut under the Atlantic label, the Sheepdogs teamed up with Patrick Carney of the Black Keys to produce the disc. The collabo-

ration is one forged out of the band's respect for Carney's music as well as his opinion, which Currie says he was never afraid to voice, whether it was about financial advice, music or which restaurants to eat at.

"You know, when someone's standing in the studio and they're giving you their unfiltered opinion on what you're doing, it's an easier pill to swallow when you respect that person's opinion," Currie adds.

The final product is one that's built on the Sheepdog's signature neo-psychedelic, vintage-tinged approach, but has also garnered heavy Black Keys comparisons, particularly when it comes to the single

"The Way It Is." The track was written solely by Currie, who takes the comparisons in stride, acknowledging some of the Black Keys sound may have rubbed off in the process, but it wasn't intentional and an exchange of styles is what he believes is great about rock music.

"Going all the way through the Beatles and Stones and David Bowie and Lou Reid and Iggy Pop, there's been imitation and learning from one another," he says. "I think it was us trying out something ... I liked it. It was an interesting experiment."

MEAGHAN BAXTER

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MUSIC 37

NEWSOUNDS FRI DEC 14

CONNECTED ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS...

THE KOKANEE FREERIDE MOUNTAIN TOUR WITH THE M MACHINE

**FREE BEFORE 11PM, $15 AFTER**

SAT DEC 15

THE RETURN OF THE FAMOUS “I LOVE 80S” DANCE PARTY!!!

THU DEC 20 THE ANNUAL UGLY SWEATER CHRISTMAS DANCE OFF FEATURING...

SISTER GRAY

W/ AXE & SMASH, THE RAPTORS

& HOSTED/DJ’D BY EASY LOVE!!

FRI DEC 21 VILLAINIZER

- END OF THE WORLD - CD RELEASE PARTY

W/ MORTILLERY, THE RETURN OF SIXGUNS OVER TOMBSTONE & GATEKRASHOR

SAT DEC 22

The Mohawk Lodge Damaged Goods (White Whale)  The Mohawk Lodge bandleader Ryder Havdale has always been a songwriting chameleon, absorbing and reflecting back the energies of those he's surrounded himself with. And after spending a chunk of 2010 touring across Europe with Eamon McGrath in tow—you can read all about that guy just a few pages back from here, so do that quickly and come back—it shouldn't be all that surprising that the album's 10 songs of sing-along rock don't seem too far away from McGrath's own 2012 release Young Canadians, especially given that McGrath recorded this one, and plays guitar here.

Anna Atkinson Mooniture (Aporia) 

BLACK MASTIFF W/ DESIDERATA, MACHINES, DUSTY TUCKER, & CHRON GOBLIN

SUN DEC 23 THE RETURN OF...

DRIVE BY PUNCH

W/ THE OLD WIVES, SECRET RIVALS, CALIFORNIA LANE CHANGE & RIOT IN PARADISE

FRI DEC 28 SCENIC ROUTE ALASKA W/ MICHAEL RAULT, VIKING FELL & CALM ASA COMA

The 2011 debut album by singe r - s o n g w r i te r, multi-instrumentalist Anna Atkinson—getting a re-release now that she's with Aporia Records—is a testament to classically trained poise and polish.

However, sometimes less is more when it comes to effective musical refinement. There's no doubt that Atkinson is a talented musician, transitioning effortlessly between a

Not that that's a bad thing at all: it's a good sound, that one, all brazen guitar-crunch and charged-up, howlat-the-moon delivery, and the Lodge's particular spin on it gives it a pervasive current of joy. "When you're calling me so high / I wanna get so high too / I wanna get so high with you" Havdale shouts out on the album opener. It's a simple idea, like a lot of the songs here, but as deftly executed as it is, you'll want to raise a pint-glass and shout along your agreement.

PAUL BLINOV

// PAUL@VUEWEEKLY.COM

FOR TICKETS- PLEASE VISIT WWW.YEGLIVE.CA

 Serena Ryder's Harmony has a soulful, '60s vibe that makes for a surprisingly suitable background to the traditionally folksy singer's deeply seductive voice.

"For You" channels a bit of Amy Winehouse and adding it to your Christmas party playlist might get people mingling and moving off the couch—and maybe even making big, sultry eyes at their crush—instead of sleepily lounging around. In tracks like "Call Me" and "Baby Come Back" you can feel Ryder's passion as she commands her lover to come back to her. But a strong voice makes a strong woman and no words are sung in desperation, instead offering a sense of hope that whether or not that other person turns around and comes back, we'll all be OK. REBECCA MEDEL // REBECCA@VUEWEEKLY.COM

Kylie Minogue The Abbey Road Sessions (EMI) 

multitude of instruments including accordion and viola, creating a sonically diverse palette for listeners to indulge in. Likewise, Atkinson's voice also cannot be faulted for its abilities and tone, but the majority of the album feels as though technique takes over from emotion. There are moments where raw feeling creeps through, such as on "Only A Fiddle," but tracks like "Old Man Song" let theme take over, projecting an overly stylized sound. If Atkinson can allow herself to let go, even a little, her music will feel less suited for a theatrical production and tap further into its heart and soul.

On The Abbey Road Sessions Kylie Minogue celebrates the 25-year anniversary of her debut Australian single with orchestral reworkings of tracks spanning her career. Some work (the smoky piano of "Better the Devil You Know" and the stinging strings and drums of "Can't Get You Out of My Head") and some don't (the misplaced pop of "The Locomotion"), but "Where the Wild Roses Grow," her duet with Nick Cave, stands out, utterly devastating as far as murder ballads go.

For the most part, the record is unassuming and floats ethereally in the background, but the compelling darkness of that track is unavoidable.

MEAGHAN BAXTER

EDEN MUNRO

// MEAGHAN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

// EDEN@VUEWEEKLY.COM

FOUR IN 140

MON DEC 31 NYE 2012 MAD BOMBER SOCIETY & THE RAYGUN COWBOYS 2 BANDS + 1 STAGE = 1 EPIC PARTY!!

W/ BALL & CHAIN, WHISKEY WAGON & DJ DOKTOR ERICK

Serena Ryder Harmony (EMI)

@CURTISTWRIGHT

Green Day ¡Tré! (Warner) @VueWeekly: Thanking our lucky stars this mediocre trifecta has come to an end, as this band seems to have used up most of their ideas.

Big Boi Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors (Def Jam) @VueWeekly: More exciting and fresh production than Big Boi has ever had and the raps are tighter than ever. Don't miss this one.

FRI DEC 14 FREE SHOW 9PM AC/DC COVER BAND

Public Enemy The Evil Empire of Everything (Enemy)

POWERLOAD A ROCK N ROLL THEME PARTY

@VueWeekly: Part of a summer/fall 1-2 punch, PE hits very hard, touching on customary PE range. Insightful, angry, & bothered, over nicely cooked beats.

SAT DEC 15 FREE SHOW 4PM

MIKE DUNN W/ SEAN BREWER & JOHN PAUL SMITH

38 MUSIC

Three Doors Down Greatest Hits (Universal) @VueWeekly: Collections like this make the end of the music business seem like it's really not that bad of a thing at all—more of a welcome blessing.

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MUSIC WEEKLY FAX YOUR FREE LISTINGS TO 780.426.2889 OR EMAIL LISTINGS@VUEWEEKLY.COM

DEADLINE: FRIDAY AT 3PM

THU DEC 13 ACCENT EUROPEAN LOUNGE Live Music Every Thursday 9:3011:30; no minors; no cover; Alex Vissia (folk singer songwriter) and the Misery Mountain Boys (folk, bluegrass) ARDEN THEATRE Lunch at Allen’s: Featuring Murray McLauchlan, Ian Thomas, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan; 7:30pm; $40 at Arden box office BLUES ON WHYTE JK and the Statics BRIXX BAR Christian and Justin (the Canyon Rose Outfit) Vinyl Jamboree: bring down yo mommas wax and show us what ya got; 9pm CAFÉ HAVEN Music every Thu; Blake Paul Band, T.J. Pennington; 7pm COOK COUNTY Open stage/jamaoke with Mourning Wood CARROT CAFÉ Zoomers Thu afternoon open mic; 1-4pm DRUID IRISH PUB DJ every Thu at 9pm DV8 Connor Regan, Max Kurtz, Joel Bruneau and Jon Capus; 9pm

Showcase: Boy Rambler, Bulletproof Automatic, Her Alibi, Nature of Pure Mud, Redskull Ritual, the Apollo Doctrine; 7pm (door); no minors RICHARD'S PUB Live R&B bands (dancing); 8pm RIC’S GRILL Peter Belec (jazz); most Thursdays; 7-10pm WILD BILL’S–Red Deer TJ the DJ every Thu and Fri; 10pm-close WUNDERBAR The Rhubarbs, Gary Debussy, YORES, No netz; 9pm; $8

DJs BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Main Floor: wtft w djwtf - rock 'n' roll, blues, indie; Wooftop Lounge: Musical flavas incl funk, indie, dance/nu disco, breaks, drum and bass, house with DJ Gundam BRIXX Hosted by Christian and Justin of Canyon Rose Outfit: Open turntables; E: kevin@ starliteroom.ca to book 30-min set CENTURY ROOM Lucky 7: Retro '80s with house DJ every Thu; 7pm-close THE COMMON Uncommon Thursday: Indie with new DJ each week with resident CROWN PUB Break Down Thu at the Crown: D&B with DJ Kaplmplx, DJ Atomik with guests DRUID IRISH PUB DJ every Thu; 9pm

EARLY STAGE SALOON– Stony Plain Open Jam Nights: Musicians are invited to come and join Jammin' Jeff Millar and Trish Jameson alternate hosting; $5

ELECTRIC RODEO– Spruce Grove DJ every Thu

EDDIE SHORTS Good Time Jamboree with Charlie Scream every Thu

FLASH NIGHT CLUB Indust:real Assembly: Goth and Industrial Night with DJ Nanuck; no minors; 10pm (door); no cover

FANDANGO'S Shane Chisholm J R BAR AND GRILL Live Jam Thu; 9pm JEFFREY'S CAFÉ Sydney Leverenz (R&B, jazz); 8-10pm; $10 JOHN WALTER MUSEUM Candlelight Christmas: The McDades; $23/$14 (child 2-14 years); 311 for shedule and tickets

FILTHY MCNASTY’S Something Diffrent every Thursday with DJ Ryan Kill

FLUID LOUNGE Take Over Thursdays: Industry Night; 9pm FUNKY BUDDHA–Whyte Ave Requests every Thu with DJ Damian HALO Fo Sho: every Thu with Allout DJs DJ Degree, Junior Brown

KRUSH ULTRA LOUNGE Open stage; 7pm; no cover

KAS BAR Urban House: every Thu with DJ Mark Stevens; 9pm

L.B.'S PUB Open jam with Kenny Skoreyko, Fred LaRose and Gordy Mathews (Shaved Posse) every Thu; 9pm-1am

LEVEL 2 LOUNGE Funk Bunker Thursdays

LIT ITALIAN WINE BAR Goldtop; 8pm; free MARYBETH'S COFFEE HOUSE–Beaumont Open mic every Thu; 7pm

LUCKY 13 Sin Thu with DJ Mike Tomas ON THE ROCKS Salsaholic: every Thu; dance lessons at 8pm; salsa DJ to follow OUTLAWS ROADHOUSE Wild Life Thursdays

NAKED CYBERCAFE & ESPRESSO BAR Open stage Thu; all ages; 9pmclose; no cover

OVERTIME–Downtown Thursdays at Eleven: Electronic Techno and Dub Step

NEW CITY Karaoke from the Crypt hosted

by Brendan Fraser; 8pm (door); no cover

RENDEZVOUS Metal night every Thu

NEW WEST HOTEL Canadian Country Hall of Fame Guest host Bev Munro NORTH GLENORA HALL Jam by Wild Rose Old Time Fiddlers every Thu OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK Jesse Peters (R&B, blues, jazz, Top 40); 9pm2am every Thu; no cover PUB 1824 Sinder Sparks Show; 8-12pm PAWN SHOP CMW

TAPHOUSE–St Albert Eclectic mix every Thu with DJ Dusty Grooves UNION HALL 3 Four All Thursdays: rock, dance, retro, top 40 with DJ Johnny Infamous WILD BILL’S–Red Deer TJ the DJ every Thu and Fri; 10pm-close

FRI DEC 14 ARTERY Vicky Berg (R&B), Joal Kamps, Field Assembly; 7:30pm; $10 (adv)

BISTRO LA PERSAUD Blues: every Friday Night hosted by The Dr Blu Band; 8pm (music); drblu.ca

Morals, Rebuild/Repair; 9pm

BLUE CHAIR CAFÉ Harry Wojak, Carrie Day; 8:30pm; $10

MEYER HOROWITZ THEATRE A Christmas Wish: The Royal Canadian Artillery Band; 7:30pm; free

BLUES ON WHYTE JK and the Statics BOHEMIA Claw, Little League, Skin BRITTANY'S Country Christmas: Myrol, Robbie Taylor and friends; 9pm BRIXX BAR Early Show: Between Brothers, Oceantree; Late Show: Silence be Damned with DJs Gotthavok, Siborg And Nightroad; 9pm CAFÉ TIRAMISU Joanne Janzen; 7:15-9pm CAFFREY'S Bonafide CARROT Live music every Fri: Jingle Jammin' Christmas Caroling; Chili & Caroling; all ages; 6:30pm; no cover; RSVP carrotassist@gmail.com CASINO EDMONTON Souled Out (pop rock) CASINO YELLOWHEAD Shannon Smith (country rock) COAST TO COAST Open stage every Fri; 9:30pm DV8 Zero Cool, Kliens 96, guests EARLY STAGE SALOON Darlene Olsen Band; $5 EDMONTON EXPO CENTRE–Northlands The Sheepdogs, Yukon Blonde; 8pm (door), 9:30pm (show); $27.50 ELEVATION ROOM Dead Red Pine, Liam Trimble, Tyler Butler; 8pm; $10 FANDANGO'S Shane Chisholm GOOD NEIGHBOR PUB T.K. and the Honey Badgers every friday; 8:30-midnight; no cover IRISH CLUB Jam session every Fri; 8pm; no cover JEFFREY'S CAFÉ Jess Smith and Beautiful Love (contemporary, classic jazz); $10

Classical

MUTTART HALL Polish Culture Society Polish Romantic Masterworks: Iwona Glinka (flute), Joachim Segger; 8pm; $25

(adult)/$20 (student/senior)/$15 (Polish Culture Society member) at TIX on the Square, door, polishculturesociety.com

WINSPEAR Christmas Bureau Caroling Sing-aLong; 12pm; free with a food bank donation

DJs BAR-B-BAR DJ James; every Fri; no cover BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Every Friday DJs on all three levels BLACKSHEEP PUB Bash: DJ spinning retro to rock classics to current BONEYARD ALE HOUSE The Rock Mash-up: DJ NAK spins videos every Fri; 9pm; no cover BUDDY’S DJ Arrow Chaser every Fri; 8pm (door); no cover before 10pm BUFFALO UNDERGROUND R U Aware Friday: Featuring Neon Nights CHROME LOUNGE Platinum VIP every Fri THE COMMON Boom The Box: every Fri; nu disco, hip hop, indie, electro, dance with weekly local and visiting DJs on rotation plus residents Echo and Shortround DRUID IRISH PUB DJ every Fri; 9pm DV8 Zero Cool, Kleins 96, guests; Food Bank fundraiser ELECTRIC RODEO– Spruce Grove DJ every Fri FILTHY MCNASTY'S Shake yo ass every Fri with DJ SAWG

JOHN WALTER MUSEUM Candlelight Christmas: The McDades; $23/$14 (child 2-14 years); 311 for shedule and tickets

FLUID LOUNGE Hip hop and dancehall; every Fri

L.B.'S PUB–St Albert Forty Below, Lynne Chwyl; 9:30pm

HILLTOP PUB The Sinder Sparks Show; every Thu and Fri; 9:30pm-close

LIZARD LOUNGE Rock 'n' roll open mic every Fri; 8:30pm; no cover

JUNCTION BAR AND EATERY LGBT Community: Rotating DJs Fri and Sat; 10pm

NOORISH CAFÉ Sparrow OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK Dueling Piano's, all request live; 9pm-2am every Fri and Sat; no cover ON THE ROCKS Mourning Wood PAWN SHOP End of the World Party: Villainizer (CD release), Mortillery, Sixguns Over Tombstone, Gatekrashor; $10 (adv atyeglive.ca) PUB 1824 Every Fri & Sat, this week with: ; $5 RED PIANO BAR Hottest dueling piano show featuring the Red Piano Players every Fri; 9pm2am SIDELINERS PUB The Living Daylights; 9pm; no cover WILD BILL’S–Red Deer TJ the DJ every Thu and Fri; 10pm-close WUNDERBAR The End is Nigh Apocalypse party: Thoroughbred Racing Pigeon, the Anatomy Cats,

FUNKY BUDDHA–Whyte Ave Top tracks, rock, retro with DJ Damian; every Fri

Damned: with DJs Gotthavok, Siborg, Nightroad; 9pm THIRSTY CAMEL The Sinder Sparks Show with Stratosphere; 10pm-2am TREASURY In Style Fri: DJ Tyco and Ernest Ledi; no line no cover for ladies all night long

VINYL DANCE LOUNGE Connected Las Vegas Fridays Y AFTERHOURS Foundation Fridays

SAT DEC 15 ALBERTA BEACH HOTEL Open stage with Trace Jordan 1st and 3rd Sat; 7pm-12 ARTERY AV Art Show #7: Burrows, Jenie Thai, DJ OJ Pimpson; 7:30pm (door)

M

M

Y

O

O

Z

I

K

Z

I

K

w w w . b l a c k b y r d . c a

Y

O

O

w w w. b l a c k b y rd . c a SEE MAG: Jan 3, 1c x 2”/ 28 AG RB: BLACKBYRD MYOOZIK SALES:Samantha H S01367

BRITTANY'S Christmas Special New Orleans Style: Rooster Davis Group, Ann Vriend; 9pm CAFFREY'S Bonafide CARROT CAFÉ Sat Open mic; 7pm; $2 CASINO EDMONTON Souled Out (pop rock) CASINO YELLOWHEAD Shannon Smith (country rock) COAST TO COAST Live bands every Sat; 9:30pm CROWN PUB Acoustic blues open stage with Marshall Lawrence, every Sat, 2-6pm; every Sat, 12-2am DEVON HOTEL PALS Acoustic Open Mic with Tim Harwill; Every Sat 4-6:30pm THE DISH NEK Trio (jazz); every Sat, 6pm DV8 Death Assembly, Reverend Kill ELEVATION ROOM Ghost Cousin, the Leaf Armada, Nek Trio; 8pm, $8 EARLY STAGE SALOON– Stony Plain Smoked Folk (rock 'n' roll); $5

OVERTIME–Downtown Fridays at Eleven: Rock hip hop, country, top forty, techno

FILTHY MCNASTY'S Country Songwriter Circle: Mike Dunn, Sean Brewer, John Paul Smith; 4pm; no cover

REDNEX–Morinville DJ Gravy from the Source 98.5 every Fri

GAS PUMP Saturday Homemade Jam: Mike Chenoweth

RED STAR Movin’ on Up: indie, rock, funk, soul, hip hop with DJ Gatto, DJ Mega Wattson; every Fri

HAVEN SOCIAL

TEMPLE Silence be

blackbyrd

BOHEMIA The Sorels, Banshee, Pot Cop, Scraam; 8pm; $8 (door)

FANDANGO'S Shane Chisholm

SUITE 69 Release Your Inner Beast: Retro and Top 40 beats with DJ Suco; every Fri

blackbyrd

BLUES ON WHYTE Every Sat afternoon: Jam with Back Door Dan; Evening: The Jive Bombers

O2'S TAPHOUSE AND GRILL DJs every Fri and Sat

SUEDE LOUNGE House, electro, Top40, R'n'B with DJ Melo-D every Fri

VICIOUS LIES AND DANGEROUS RUMORS

CD

BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Hair of the Dog: Jake Ian Band (live acoustic music every Sat); 4-6pm; no cover

EDMONTON EVENT CENTRE Ludky Date, Castle Vania; 9pm

LOUNGE Fuzzion Friday: with Crewshtopher, Tyler M, guests; no cover

BIG BOI

UNION HALL Ladies Night every Fri

NEWCASTLE PUB House, dance mix every Fri with DJ Donovan

SOU KAWAII ZEN

10442 whyte ave 439.1273 10442 whyte ave 439.1273

CLUB Darren Frank, J. Eygenraam, guests HILLTOP PUB Sat afternoon roots jam with Pascal, Simon and Dan, 3:30-6:30pm; evening HOOLIGANZ Live music every Sat IRON BOAR PUB Jazz in Wetaskiwin featuring jazz trios the 1st Sat each month; $10 JOHN WALTER MUSEUM Candlelight Christmas: The McDades; $23/$14

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MUSIC 39

(child 2-14 years); 311 for shedule and tickets

First, Monarch Sky, E Ville Rose; 8pm (door); $10

L.B.'S PUB–St Albert Early: Sat afternoon Jam with Gator and Friends, 5-9pm; Late: Love Junk

SIDELINERS PUB Sat open stage; 3-7pm

LOUISIANA PURCHASE Suchy Sister Saturdays: Amber, Renee or Stephanie with accompaniment; 9:3011:30pm; no cover NEW CITY The Last Christmas on Earth: Vixenesque Burlesque with music by the Fuzz Kings, Los Calaveras; hosted by Missy Motormouth; 8pm (door), 9pm (show) NEW WEST HOTEL Country jam every Sat; 3-6pm O’BYRNE’S Live band every Sat, 3-7pm; DJ every Sat, 9:30pm ON THE ROCKS Mourning Wood OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK Dueling Piano's, all request live; 9pm-2am every Fri and Sat; no cover PACIFIC CAFÉ Heart of the City and E4C present the Heart of Open Mic Night: Featured performers include Big Sky Gliders, Erasmo Coco, Locution Revolution, Sebastian Barrera. Local musicians, songwriters, poets and comics are invited to share their work in a cozy community cafe setting; info and to sign-up call David at 780.424.2870; 7-10pm PUB 1824 Every Fri & Sat, this week with: ; $5 RED PIANO BAR Hottest dueling piano show featuring the Red Piano Players every Sat; 9pm2am RENDEZVOUS PUB Face

BUFFALO UNDERGROUND Head Mashed In Saturday: Mashup Night CENTRAL SOCIAL Grand opening with DJ Russell

STARLITE ROOM The Dryland Band (CD release); 9pm

James

STUDIO MUSIC FOUNDATION Funk Sway, Evoletah, Static Revolution; 6pm (door); $5

ELECTRIC RODEO– Spruce Grove DJ every Sat

WUNDERBAR Consilience, Push and Pull, Mobina Galore, Bo Aganaba, Death By Robot; 8pm

Classical ALL SAINTS ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL Cathedral Brass: Mill Creek Colliery Band; tickets at TIX on the Square FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Concordia Christmas Concert: Jubiloso, Bella Voce, the Community Chorus, other groups; 7:30pm; $12-$15 at TIX on the Square

DJs BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Main Floor: The Menace Sessions: Alt Rock/ Electro/Trash with Miss Mannered; Wooftop: Sound It Up!: classic hip-hop and reggae with DJ Sonny Grimezz; Underdog: Dr. Erick BLACKSHEEP PUB DJ every Sat BONEYARD ALE HOUSE DJ Sinistra Saturdays: 9pm BRIXX BAR Tanner Gordon and the Unfortunates, The Good God Damns and Upsidedowntown; 9pm BUDDY'S Feel the rhythm every Sat with DJ Phon3 Hom3; 8pm (door); no cover before 10pm

DRUID IRISH PUB DJ every Sat; 9pm

FILTHY MCNASTY'S Fire up your night every Saturday with DJ SAWG FLUID LOUNGE Scene Saturday's Relaunch: Party; hip-hop, R&B and Dancehall with DJ Aiden Jamali FUNKY BUDDHA–Whyte Ave Top tracks, rock, retro every Sat with DJ Damian HALO For Those Who Know: house every Sat with DJ Junior Brown, Luke Morrison, Nestor Delano, Ari Rhodes JUNCTION BAR AND EATERY LGBT Community: Rotating DJs Fri and Sat; 10pm LEVEL 2 LOUNGE Collective Saturdays underground: House and Techno; Goobz For Boobz Breast Cancer fundraiser night; $7 proceeds to charity NEWCASTLE PUB Top 40 requests every Sat with DJ Sheri O2'S TAPHOUSE AND GRILL DJs every Fri and Sat OVERTIME–Downtown Saturdays at Eleven: R'n'B, hip hop, reggae, Old School PALACE CASINO Show Lounge DJ every Sat PAWN SHOP Transmission Saturdays: Indie rock, new wave, classic punk with DJ Blue Jay and Eddie Lunchpail;

9pm (door); free (before 10pm)/$5 (after 10pm) RED STAR Indie rock, hip hop, and electro every Sat with DJ Hot Philly and guests ROUGE LOUNGE Rouge Saturdays: global sound and Cosmopolitan Style Lounging with DJ Rezzo, DJ Mkhai SOU KAWAII ZEN LOUNGE Your Famous Saturday with Crewshtopher, Tyler M SUEDE LOUNGE House, electro, Top40, R'n'B with DJ Melo-D every Fri SUITE 69 Stella Saturday: retro, old school, top 40 beats with DJ Lazy, guests TEMPLE Oh Snap! Oh Snap with Degree, Cool Beans, Specialist, Spenny B and Mr. Nice Guy and Ten 0; every Sat 9pm UNION HALL Celebrity Saturdays: every Sat hosted by DJ Johnny Infamous VINYL DANCE LOUNGE Signature Saturdays Y AFTERHOURS Release Saturdays

SUN DEC 16 BAILEY THEATRE– Camrose Christmas By The Fire–Stories and Songs with a Jazzy Twist: Charlene Brown, Carolyn Olson, Blue Thistle (Deanna Didriksen, Michelle Kennedy Hawkins, Tova Olson), Lucas Brown, John McCune, Curtis Mokry, Brad Mokry, Lael Olson, Julia Wiewel, Cathie Johnson (storyteller); 7pm; $22/$15 at Bailey box office; baileytheatre.com BEER HUNTER–St Albert Open stage/jam every Sun; 2-6pm

BLACKJACK'S ROADHOUSE–Nisku Open mic every Sun hosted by Tim Lovett BLUE PEAR RESTAURANT Jazz on the Side Sun 5:30-8:30pm; $25 if not dining BLUE CHAIR CAFÉ Sunday Brunch: Jazz Passages Trio; 10am2:30pm; donations BLUES ON WHYTE Nadine Kellman and the Black Wonders BOGANI CAFE Edmonton Ukulele Circle; 3rd Sun of each month; 3:30-5pm; $5 fee BRITTANY'S Help from the Heart: Open Stage Fundraiser w/silent auction; 2pm-5pm CAFFREY'S–Sherwood Park The Sunday Blues Jam: hosted by Kevin and Rita McDade and the Grey Cats Blues Band, guests every week; 5-9pm; no cover CHA ISLAND TEA CO Live on the Island: Rhea March hosts open mic and Songwriter's stage; starts with a jam session; 7pm DEVANEY’S IRISH PUB Celtic open stage every Sun with Keri-Lynne Zwicker; 5:30pm; no cover DOUBLE D'S Open jam every Sun; 3-8pm DRUID IRISH PUB Chris Harold; 9-11pm DV8 The Obscene Division, Lucid Skies, Patterns, Nicholas Rousseau EDDIE SHORTS Open stage with Dan Daniels every Sun EDMONTON EVENT CENTRE Theory of a Deadman, Big Wreck; 8pm; $39.50

VENUE GUIDE ACCENT EUROPEAN LOUNGE 8223-104 St, 780.431.0179 ALE YARD TAP 13310-137 Ave ALL SAINTS ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL 10035-103 St ARTERY 9535 Jasper Ave AVENUE THEATRE 9030118 Ave, 780.477.2149 BISTRO LA PERSAUD 861791 St, 780.758.6686 BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE 10425-82 Ave, 780.439.1082 BLACKJACK'S ROADHOUSE–Nisku 2110 Sparrow Drive, Nisku, 780.986.8522 BLACKSHEEP PUB 11026 Jasper Ave, 780.420.0448 BLUE CHAIR CAFÉ 9624-76 Ave, 780.989.2861 BLUE PEAR RESTAURANT 10643-123 St, 780.482.7178 BLUES ON WHYTE 1032982 Ave, 780.439.3981 BOHEMIA 10217-97 St BONEYARD ALE HOUSE 9216-34 Ave, 780.437.2663 BRITTANY'S LOUNGE 10225-97 St, 780.497.0011 BRIXX BAR 10030-102 St (downstairs), 780.428.1099 BUDDY’S 11725B Jasper Ave, 780.488.6636 CAFÉ HAVEN 9 Sioux Rd, Sherwood Park, 780.417.5523, cafehaven.ca CAFÉ TIRAMISU 10750124 St CARROT CAFÉ 9351-118 Ave, 780.471.1580 CASINO EDMONTON 7055 Argylll Rd, 780.463.9467 CASINO YELLOWHEAD 12464-153 St, 780 424 9467 CENTRAL SOCIAL 100, 10909 Jasper Ave CENTURY CASINO 13103 Fort Rd, 780.643.4000 CHA ISLAND TEA CO 10332-81 Ave, 780.757.2482 CHROME LOUNGE 132 Ave, Victoria Trail COAST TO COAST 5552

40 MUSIC

Calgary Tr, 780.439.8675 COMMON 9910-109 St CROWN PUB 10709-109 St, 780.428.5618 DEVANEY’S IRISH PUB 9013-88 Ave, 780.465.4834 DEVON HOTEL 1 Huron Street, Devon, AB THE DISH 12417 Stony Plain Rd, 780.488.6641 DRUID 11606 Jasper Ave, 780.454.9928 DUSTER’S PUB 6402-118 Ave, 780.474.5554 DV8 8307-99 St EARLY STAGE SALOON– Stony Plain 4911-52 Ave, Stony Plain EDDIE SHORTS 10713-124 St, 780.453.3663 EDMONTON EVENTS CENTRE WEM Phase III, 780.489.SHOW ELECTRIC RODEO–Spruce Grove 121-1 Ave, Spruce Grove, 780.962.1411 ELEPHANT AND CASTLE– Whyte Ave 10314 Whyte Ave EXPRESSIONZ CAFÉ 993870 Ave, 780.437.3667 FESTIVAL PLACE 100 Festival Way, Sherwood Park, 780.449.3378 FIDDLER’S ROOST 890699 St FILTHY MCNASTY’S 10511-82 Ave, 780.916.1557 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 10031-109 St, 780.422.2214, fbcedmonton.ca FLASH NIGHT CLUB 10018105 St, 780.996.1778 FLUID LOUNGE 10888 Jasper Ave, 780.429.0700 FUNKY BUDDHA 10341-82 Ave, 780.433.9676 GOOD EARTH COFFEE HOUSE AND BAKERY 9942-108 St GOOD NEIGHBOR PUB 11824-103 St HALO 10538 Jasper Ave, 780.423.HALO HAVEN SOCIAL CLUB

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

15120A (basement), Stony Plain Rd, 780.756.6010 HILLTOP PUB 8220-106 Ave, 780.490.7359 HOGS DEN PUB 9, 14220 Yellowhead Tr HOOLIGANZ 10704-124 St, 780.995.7110 IRON BOAR PUB 4911-51st St, Wetaskiwin J AND R 4003-106 St, 780.436.4403 JEFFREY’S CAFÉ 9640 142 St, 780.451.8890 JOHN WALTER MUSEUM 9180 Walterdale Hill JUNCTION BAR AND EATERY 10242-106 St, 780.756.5667 KAS BAR 10444-82 Ave, 780.433.6768 L.B.’S PUB 23 Akins Dr, St Albert, 780.460.9100 LEGENDS PUB 6104-172 St, 780.481.2786 LEVEL 2 LOUNGE 11607 Jasper Ave, 2nd Fl, 780.447.4495 LIT ITALIAN WINE BAR 10132-104 St LIZARD LOUNGE 13160118 Ave MARYBETH'S COFFEE HOUSE–Beaumont 5001-30 Ave, Beaumont, 780.929.2203 MCDOUGALL UNITED CHURCH 10025-101 St MEYER HOROWITZ THEATRE 8900-114 St, U of A MUTTART HALL Alberta College Conservatory, 780.732.3599, polishculturesociety.com NAKED CYBERCAFE & ESPRESSO BAR 10303-108 St, 780.425.9730 NEWCASTLE PUB 6108-90 Ave, 780.490.1999 NEW CITY 8130 Gateway Boulevard NISKU INN 1101-4 St NOLA CREOLE KITCHEN & MUSIC HOUSE 11802-

124 St, 780.451.1390, experiencenola.com NOORISH CAFÉ 8440-109 St NORTH GLENORA HALL 13535-109A Ave O’BYRNE’S 10616-82 Ave, 780.414.6766 ON THE ROCKS 11730 Jasper Ave, 780.482.4767 O2'S ON WHYTE 780.454.0203 O2'S TAPHOUSE AND GRILL 13509-127 St, 780.454.0203 OVERTIME–Downtown 10304-111 St, 780.465.6800 OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK 100 Granada Blvd, Sherwood Park, 790.570.5588 PACIFIC CAFÉ 10876-97 St PAWN SHOP 10551-82 Ave, Upstairs, 780.432.0814 PLAYBACK PUB 594 Hermitage Rd, 130 Ave, 40 St PLEASANTVIEW COMMUNITY HALL 1086057 Ave PUB 1824 12402-118 Ave, 587.521.1824 REDNEX BAR–Morinville 10413-100 Ave, Morinville, 780.939.6955 RED PIANO BAR 1638 Bourbon St, WEM, 8882-170 St, 780.486.7722 RED STAR 10538 Jasper Ave, 780.428.0825 RENDEZVOUS 10108-149 St RICHARD'S PUB 12150-161 Ave, 780-457-3117 RIC’S GRILL 24 Perron Street, St Albert, 780.460.6602 ROSEBOWL/ROUGE LOUNGE 10111-117 St, 780.482.5253 ROSE AND CROWN 10235101 St R PUB 16753-100 St, 780.457.1266 SECOND CUP–89 AVE 8906-149 St SECOND CUP–Sherwood Park 4005 Cloverbar Rd, Sherwood Park, 780.988.1929 • Summerwood

Summerwood Centre, Sherwood Park, 780.988.1929 SIDELINERS PUB 11018127 St, 780.453.6006 SOU KAWAII ZEN LOUNGE 12923-97 St, 780.758.5924 SOUTHMINSTERSTEINHAUER UNITED CHURCH 10740-19th Ave SPORTSMAN'S LOUNGE 8170-50 St STARLITE ROOM 10030102 St, 780.428.1099 STEEPS TEA LOUNGE– Whyte Ave 11116-82 Ave SUEDE LOUNGE 11806 Jasper Ave, 780.482.0707 STUDIO 27–FAB Fine Arts Building, U of A STUDIO MUSIC FOUNDATION 10940166A St SUITE 69 2 Fl, 8232 Gateway Blvd, 780.439.6969 TAPHOUSE 9020 McKenney Ave, St Albert, 780.458.0860 TREASURY 10004 Jasper Ave, 7870.990.1255, thetreasurey.ca VEE LOUNGE, APEX CASINO–St Albert 24 Boudreau Rd, St Albert, 780.460.8092, 780.590.1128 VINYL DANCE LOUNGE 10740 Jasper Ave, 780.428.8655 WILD BILL’S–Red Deer Quality Inn North Hill, 7150-50 Ave, Red Deer, 403.343.8800 WINSPEAR CENTRE 4 Sir Winston Churchill Square; 780.28.1414 WUNDERBAR 8120-101 St, 780.436.2286 Y AFTERHOURS 10028102 St, 780.994.3256, yafterhours.com YELLOWHEAD BREWERY 10229-105 St, 780.423.3333 YESTERDAYS PUB 112, 205 Carnegie Dr, St Albert, 780.459.0295 ZEN LOUNGE 12923-97 St

at unionevents.com, ticketmaster.ca FANDANGO'S Singer songwriter open Stage every Sun FILTHY MCNASTY'S Rock and Soul Sundays with DJ Sadeeq HOGS DEN PUB Open Jam: hosted; open jam every Sun, all styles welcome; 3-7pm JOHN WALTER MUSEUM Candlelight Christmas: The McDades; $23/$14 (child 2-14 years); 311 for shedule and tickets NEWCASTLE PUB Sun Soul Service (acoustic jam): Willy James and Crawdad Cantera; 3-6:30pm O’BYRNE’S Open mic every Sun; 9:30pm-1am ON THE ROCKS Kim Churchill, Mayday and the Beatcreeps, Babette Hayward; 8pm; $8 (adv)/$10 (door) at Blackbyrd O2'S TAP HOUSE AND GRILL Live rock band every Sun with Joint Chiess RICHARD'S PUB Sun Live Jam hosted by Carson Cole; 4pm SOUTHMINSTERSTEINHAUER UNITED CHURCH Deep Winter Song: A Mystical Evening of Music and Story featuring Keri Lynn Zwicker, Brian McLeod, Martin Kloppers, "rEvolve": Christopher Giffen/ Gord Oaks/Josh McHan, Aekesh Moksha, guests; 7:30pm; $20 (adv)/$25 (door)/$15 (youth/low income)/free (child 9yrs and under) adv tix at Earth's General Store (Whyte Ave), Eventbrite: deepwintersong2012. eventbrite.com WUNDERBAR Shhhh!

Quiet Music Series Part IV: Joe Nolan, Mike Dunn, Justine Vandergrift Happening; 9pm YARDBIRD SUITE Littlebirds Big Band YELLOWHEAD BREWERY Open Stage: Every Sun, 8pm

Classical ALBERTA COLLEGE CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC Schola Cantorum Women's Choir; 7:30pm; free FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH O Great Mystery: Christmas choir concert candlelight celebration; 7pm MCDOUGALL UNITED CHURCH Choirs and orchestras of the Music Enrichment programs of Edmonton Public Schools; 4pm; $8 (door) STUDIO 27–FAB Amber Schneider recital; 5pm; no cover WINSPEAR CENTRE A Pro Coro Family Christmas: Michael Zaugg (conductor), Keri Zwicker (harp), Jeremy Spurgeon (organ); 2:30pm; $35-$49 (adult)/$32-$46 (student/senior)

DJs BACKSTAGE TAP AND GRILL Industry Night: every Sun with Atomic Improv, Jameoki and DJ Tim BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE

Main Floor: Soul Sundays: A fantastic voyage through '60s and '70s funk, soul and R&B with DJ Zyppy

MUSEUM Candlelight Christmas: The McDades; $23/$14 (child 2-14 years); 311 for shedule and tickets

LEVEL 2 LOUNGE Stylus Industry Sundays: Invinceable, Tnt, Rocky, Rocko, Akademic, weekly guest DJs; 9pm-3am

L.B.’S Tue Blues Jam with Ammar; 9pm-1am

SAVOY MARTINI LOUNGE Reggae on Whyte: RnR Sun with DJ IceMan; no minors; 9pm; no cover

MON DEC 17 BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE The Black Dog Customer Appreciation Xmas Party!

Featuring: Santa!

BLUES ON WHYTE Boogie Patrol DEVANEY'S IRISH PUB Singer/songwriter open stage every Mon; 8pm FANDANGO'S Open mic Music Industry Night every Mon JOHN WALTER MUSEUM Candlelight Christmas: The McDades; $23/$14 (child 2-14 years); 311 for shedule and tickets JUBILEE AUDITORIUM Sharing Christmas: Rita MacNeil and Frank Mills (Music Box Dancer); 7pm; $65.50 at Ticketmaster OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK Monday Open Stage PLEASANTVIEW COMMUNITY HALL Acoustic instrumental old time fiddle jam every Mon; hosted by the Wild Rose Old Tyme Fiddlers Society; 7pm ROSE BOWL/ROUGE LOUNGE Acoustic open stage every Mon; 9pm

DJs BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Main Floor: Blue Jay’s Messy Nest: mod, brit pop, new wave, British rock with DJ Blue Jay CROWN PUB Mixmashitup Mon Industry Night: with DJ Fuzze, J Plunder (DJs to bring their music and mix mash it up) FILTHY MCNASTY'S Metal Mondays with DJ Tyson

LIT ITALIAN WINE BAR NEK Trio; 8pm; free O’BYRNE’S Celtic jam every Tue; with Shannon Johnson and friends; 9:30pm O2'S ON WHYTE DJ Grizz every Tue industry night OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK The Campfire Hero's (acoustic rock, country, top 40); 9pm2am every Tue; no cover PADMANADI Open stage every Tue; with Mark Davis; all ages; 7:3010:30pm R PUB Open stage jam every Tue; hosted

by Gary and the Facemakers; 8pm RED PIANO All request band Tuesdays: Joint Chiefs (classic rock, soul, R&B) every Tue SECOND CUP– Summerwood Open stage/open mic every Tue; 7:30pm; no cover WUNDERBAR PTO and Scott Cook

DJs BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Main Floor: alternative retro and not-so-retro, electronic and Euro with Eddie Lunchpail; Wooftop: It’s One Too Many Tuesdays: Reggae, funk, soul, boogie and disco with Rootbeard BUDDYS DJ Arrow Chaser every CROWN PUB Live Hip Hop Tue: freestyle hip hop with DJ Xaolin and Mc Touch DV8 Creepy Tombsday: Psychobilly, Hallowe'en horrorpunk, deathrock with Abigail Asphixia and Mr Cadaver; every Tue RED STAR Experimental Indie Rock, Hip Hop, Electro with DJ Hot Philly; every Tue RED PIANO All Request Band Tuesdays: Classic rock, soul and R&B with

Joint Chiefs; 8pm; $5 SUITE 69 Rockstar Tuesdays: Mash up and Electro with DJ Tyco, DJ Omes with weekly guest DJs

WED DEC 19 BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Steam Whistle Presents: The Ho Ho Ho Down with Thea vs Loki, Bombchan; 10pm; no cover BLUES ON WHYTE Boogie Patrol CHA ISLAND TEA CO Whyte Noise Drum Circle: Join local drummers for a few hours of beats and fun; 6pm CROWN PUB The D.A.M.M Jam: Open stage/original plugged in jam with Dan, Miguel and friends every Wed EDDIE SHORTS Electric open jam with Steven Johnson Experience every Wed ELEPHANT AND CASTLE–Whyte Ave Open mic every Wed (unless there's an Oilers game); no cover FIDDLER'S ROOST Little Flower Open Stage every Wed with Brian Gregg; 8pm-12 GOOD EARTH COFFEE HOUSE AND BAKERY Breezy Brian Gregg; every Wed; 12-1pm HAVEN SOCIAL CLUB Open stage every Wed hosted by The Canyon Rose Outfit, 8:30pm, free HOOLIGANZ Open stage every Wed with host Cody Nouta; 9pm NEW WEST HOTEL Free classic country dance lessons every Wed, 7-9pm OVERTIME SHERWOOD PARK Jason Greeley (acoustic rock, country, Top 40); 9pm-2am every Wed; no cover PLAYBACK PUB Open Stage every Wed hosted

by JTB; 9pm-1am PLEASANTVIEW COMMUNITY HALL Acoustic Bluegrass jam presented by the Northern Bluegrass

Circle Music Society; every Wed, 6:30-11pm; $2 (member)/$4 (nonmember) PUB 1824 Open jam session every Wed, hosted by Norm; 8pm RED PIANO BAR Wed Night Live: hosted by dueling piano players; 8pm-1am; $5

LIVE MUSIC AT “THE ROSE”

RICHARD'S PUB Live Latin Band Salsabor every Wed; 9pm SECOND CUP–149 St Open stage with Alex Boudreau; 7:30pm

LYLE HOBBS DECEMBER 14 & 15

SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE Alexisonfire; 7pm; $36.90-$115

STUART BENDALL

STARLITE ROOM Japandroids, Mac DeMarco; no minors, 8pm (door); tickets at Prime Box Office, Blackbyrd WUNDERBAR Ghibli, DJ Generic, Mikey Maybe, Quasiuomo; 9pm

DECEMBER 21

In Sutton Place Hotel #195, 10235 101 Street, EDMONTONPUBS.COM

ZEN LOUNGE Jazz Wednesdays: Kori Wray and Jeff Hendrick; every Wed; 7:30-10pm; no cover

DJs BLACK DOG FREEHOUSE Main Floor: RetroActive Radio: Alternative '80s and '90s, post punk, new wave, garage, Brit, mod, rock and roll with LL

Cool Joe BRIXX BAR Really Good... Eats and Beats: every Wed with DJ Degree and Friends

DOWNTOWN

Dec 13 - Dec 15 DERINA HARVEY Dec 18 - Dec 19 AMIE WEYMES

BUDDY'S DJ Dust 'n' Time every Wed; 9pm (door); no cover THE COMMON Treehouse Wednesdays FILTHY MCNASTY'S Pint Night Wednesdays with DJ SAWG

WEM

Dec 13 - Dec 15 STAN GALLANT Dec 18 - Dec 19 JIMMY WHIFFEN SUNDAY NIGHT KARAOKE

FUNKY BUDDHA–Whyte Ave Latin and Salsa music every Wed; dance lessons 8-10pm LEGENDS PUB Hip hop/ R&B with DJ Spincycle NIKKI DIAMONDS Punk and ‘80s metal every Wed RED STAR Guest DJs every Wed TEMPLE Wild Style Wed: Hip hop open mic hosted by Kaz and Orv; $5

EDMONTONPUBS.COM

LUCKY 13 Industry Night every Mon with DJ Chad Cook

TUE DEC 18 BAILY THEATRE– Camrose Tuesday Bluesday: the Myra Marshall Band, hosted by Curtis Bessette; 7pm (door), 8pm (show); $10 (door) BLUES ON WHYTE Boogie Patrol

THIS WEEK’S ENTERTAINMENT: DEC. 14 - 15 SUNDAY DEC. 17 WEDNESDAY

DUANE ALLEN CELTIC MUSIC 5-8PM SINGER/SONGWRITER 8PM WITH HOST JESSE D OPEN STAGE WITH DUFF ROBISON

BRIXX BAR Ruby Tuesdays with host Mark Feduk; $5 after 8pm DRUID IRISH PUB Open stage every Tue; with Chris Wynters; 9pm

DEVANEY’S IRISH PUB 9013-88 Avenue 780.465.4834 edmontonpubs.com

JOHN WALTER

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

MUSIC 41

JONESIN'CROSSWORD MATT JONES // JONESINCROSSWORDS@VUEWEEKLY.COM

"Paired Up" They're always together!

Across

35 Rival of LA

1 1 Word of surprise

36 Big bucks

5 Dreamworks ___ (movie studio)

37 Check out the factory

8 Praiseful poet

38 Football coach Parseghian

13 LBJ daughter

39 Gas or elec., e.g.

14 ___ Plus (shampoo)

40 Lot dwellers

16 Place for concerts

42 "U just got pwned"

17 Buck

43 "___ a Letter to My Love" (1980

19 School, in Quebec

movie)

20 PepsiCo beverage introduced in

44 Used delaying tactics

2001

47 Trite answer to "What's up?"

22 Sleepy cohort

(with "the")

23 Word before hog or rage

48 Bog fuel

24 Angel dust

49 To catch a thief

27 What Ali wore in a historic

51 "Mary Poppins" song refrain

match against Liston

58 Grim Reaper's collection

33 "You Be ___" (Run-D.M.C. hit)

59 The world of Bond 60 Chicken, in a taqueria 61 "The Secret of ___ Inish" 62 Earth Day subj.

63 Party animal's secret 64 ___ Schwarz 65 Dick Tracy's love ___ Trueheart

Down 1 "Born Free" lioness 2 Judy Garland's real last name 3 Bust ___ (fire off rounds) 4 Cut into cubes

5 Toastmasters preparation

12 Swinger's stand

6 TV chef Graham

15 Return to keep kids safe

7 Pirate's drink

18 Documented

8 Pitching style

21 URL punctuation

9 Like some trees or teeth

24 Breads for hummus

10 "Can I let you ___ a little secret?"

25 Influence

11 Be pouty

26 Dwarf planet that Neil deGrasse Tyson helped demote 28 All riled up 29 Alpine region of Austria 30 Students take them 31 "Hogan's Heroes" colonel 32 Like soy sauce 34 They combat fatigue 41 Looks good on first inspection 43 It shares a 45-mile border with Canada 45 Female army enlistee, once 46 City in a Pauly Shore movie title 50 "The Devil and Daniel Webster" author 51 Not dorky 52 Dance with a story 53 "Time ___ the essence" 54 Org. that gives out ratings 55 "The Amazing ___" 56 They may get inflated 57 British pie contents 58 Number on a Banana Boat bottle ©2012 Jonesin' Crosswords

42 BACK

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad PHONE: 780.426.1996 / FAX: 780.426.2889 EMAIL: classifieds@vueweekly.com Coming Events

Come join the Carrot Coffeehouse in an evening of Jingle Jammin' Christmas Caroling. We'll start with a bowl of hot chili and then move out into the community to carol.

9351-118 Ave, December 14th at 6:30 pm. Please RSVP to carrotassist@gmail.com and dress for the weather EIGHT MINUTE DATE Singles Speed Dating Event- $40 Wed. Dec 19, 2012 Ages: 18 to 62 Register at 780-457-8535 or at www.eightminutedate.ca

1600.

Volunteers Wanted

630 CHED Santas Anonymous needs drivers to deliver gifts on December 15 & 16. There is no preregistration however you need to bring your drivers license and insurance into Santas Depot. Go to the Volunteer Opportunities page at santasanonymous.ca for times and parking details Help the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation create a future without breast cancer through volunteerism. Contact 1-866-302-2223 or ivolunteer@cbcf.org for current volunteer opportunities Interested in volunteering at Edmonton's Food Bank?

Lots of opportunities coming up for this holiday season including Save-On-Foods "Stuff A Bus", Candy Cane Lane.

Contact Judy at 780-425-2133 for more information Jasper Place High School's Global Cafe is doing a call out for living books!

Do you have a story to tell? Do you have a passion you would like to share? Are you interested in enriching the lives of youth?

Then the living library is for you!

If you are interested in becoming a living book , please submit a short description of the story you wish to share and a brief biography to Julia Dalman at julia.dalman@gmail.com before January 14th, 2013 Meals On Wheels Be a Christmas Elf During the holiday season, Meals on Wheels serves all of their clients a free turkey dinner and deliver a Christmas gift as a wish of goodwill to lift up those who are alone over the holiday season. To volunteer please contact: 780-429-2020 or volunteer.general@mealsonwheels edmonton.org

1600.

Volunteers Wanted

Meals On Wheels Celebrate 12 Days of Christmas During the holiday season, Meals on Wheels serves all of their clients a free turkey dinner and deliver a Christmas gift as a wish of goodwill to lift up those who are alone over the holiday season. Your company or business can sponsor one of our special holiday meals from December 14 to 25. Your financial support of $1000 will go towards the cost of making the meals.To volunteer please contact: 780-429-2020 or volunteer.general@mealsonwheels edmonton.org

Meals On Wheels Christmas Elves Gift Drive During the holiday season, Meals on Wheels serves all of their clients a free turkey dinner and deliver a Christmas gift as a wish of goodwill to lift up those who are alone over the holiday season. Collect Christmas gifts for our clients to brighten their day. We are collecting new, unused blankets, toiletries, candies and goodies, socks and grocery store gift cards.To arrange for a pick up please contact: 780-429-2020 or volunteer.general@mealsonwheels edmonton.org

Meals On Wheels Christmas Elves In The Kitchen During the holiday season, Meals on Wheels serves all of their clients a free turkey dinner and deliver a Christmas gift as a wish of goodwill to lift up those who are alone over the holiday season. Come in and make the meals that make a difference.

Come on your own or put together a team to help our Red Seal cooks prepare homemade meals in our kitchen during the morning Monday through Friday throughout the holiday season.To volunteer please contact: 780-429-2020 or volunteer.general@mealsonwheels edmonton.org

People who come to Bissell Centre for clothing rarely get new items for themselves. Everything is used or passed down from somewhere else. At Christmas, we aim to provide the adults who access services at Bissell Centre with a brand new hoodie, as we've done the last three years.

Something that is their very own fresh, clean, new. For questions about hoodies or other clothing donations, please contact Barb at 780-423-2285 ext 159 or bnickel@bissellcentre.org

1600.

Volunteers Wanted

The 2013 Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival on Jan 12 & 13, is looking for a few volunteers to help out with indoor and outdoor activities. To be a part of this cool event, please visit www.deepfreezefest.ca or call 780.471.1580, or email: deepfreezevolunteers@gmail.com or come out to our volunteer round up on Nov 15, Dec 8 or Jan 8 at 6pm at the Alberta Avenue Community Centre at 9210 118 ave.

The Brick Sport Central is searching for volunteers to donate their time helping with collection, inventory, repairing, as well as outfitting children in need of sports equipment. Call for more information and a tour 780-477-1166 The Salvation Army needs volunteers for Annual Kettle Campaign. Please email

Edmonton_Kettles@can.salvationarmy .org if interested

Volunteers needed at the Carrot Calling all people who enjoy great coffee, art and community.

The Carrot Community Arts Coffeehouse is looking for some more barista-volunteers to join their coffee & art revolution on Alberta Ave - could this be you?

Available shifts are Thursdays from 10am-1pm. Go to www.thecarrot.ca or email carrotassist@gmail.com for more info

2001.

Acting Classes

FILM AND TV ACTING Learn from the pros how to act in Film and TV 6 month f/t program 1-866-231-8232 www.vadastudios.com

2005.

Artist to Artist

Art Gallery of St. Albert (AGSA), a contemporary public art gallery, seeks proposals from artists working in all styles and mediums for exhibition in the 2014 calendar year. Submissions must include an artist statement, CV and up to ten images of work. For full details head to: artgalleryofstalbert.ca/exhibitionsevents/call-for-submissions City Of Lethbridge: Request for Qualifications - Helen Schuler Nature Centre Public Artwork Artists are invited to participate in a two stage public art competition, for further details please email suzanne@artslethbridge.org Proposal deadline is February 1st

2005.

Artist to Artist

Art in Public Places Kingswood Day Use Shelter The City of St. Albert seeks proposals and qualifications from experienced artists or artist teams with a demonstrated ability to produce a recognition artwork.

This artwork will commemorate the spirit and energy of the athletes, and the Special Olympic 2012 Canada Winter Games.

Proposal deadline is January 23 For details head to: stalbert.ca/tender-opportunities

2010.

Musicians Available

Old shuffle blues drummer available for gigs.

780-462-6291

2020.

2060.

Music Services

Now Hiring: Edmonton Recording Intern Production Assistant. The successful applicant will have extensive ProTools knowledge & access to Alberta's premiere commercial recording studio.

Req'd knowledge in tracking, editing, eq & post. Duties incl. aiding development of worldclass international recording/touring act. You could be working for up to one year in sessions with pro grade technology & leadership, earning full studio access. This job does not pay. Earn exp. & reference only. Inquire with enthusiasm to: Moses Avalon email: mi999999@hotmail.com

Musicians Wanted

Bass player wanted for modern rock trio. Please be able to gig once per month & Sunday rehearsals. Call or text: 780-299-7503 Established, award nominated urban artist, Rellik, seeking singer/vocalist for performing/recording/video work.

Please contact Bill at wp_leblanc@hotmail.com Serious inquiries only Female singer/songwriter/guitar player looking for other musicians to form an original band. Have songs written.

Influences: PJ Harvey, Radiohead, Cocteau Twins.

Phone Andrea at 780-488-2596 or email acwhite08@hotmail.com Guitarists, bassists, vocalists, pianists and drummers needed for good paying teaching jobs.

Please call 780-901-7677 Jammers Wanted for Monthly Jam. Country, Old Rock & Old Time Music.

Randy Glen - 780-973-5593 rock-n-rollrandy@hotmail.com Pro drummer required for success-driven pop rock band with commercial aspirations.

Recordings will be made available to candidates.

-Must not have criminal record -Must be committed to your music profession (no students, VISAs or hobbyists) 222musicbox@gmail.com Seeking experienced drummer for original project. Rock, blues and funk influenced. Serious inquiries please call 780-913-5855

2200.

Massage Therapy

RELAX AND LET GO Therapeutic massage.

Appointments only.

Deena 780-999-7510

8005.

Services

www.albertaweddings.org

BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED AD TODAY! CALL ANDY 780.426.1996

130.

Publisher Aberdeen Publishing has an opening for the position as Publisher of the Jasper Fitzhugh.

We are seeking a proven leader with the entrepreneurial skills to continue and further enhance the strong growth this paper has experienced over the past six years.

Ideally, you should have a good understanding of all facets of newspaper operations with emphasis on sales, marketing and financial management. In addition, our new publisher should be well suited to working with community groups and clients as well as developing sponsorship opportunities for the newspaper, As publisher of the Fitzhugh, you will help develop strategy for the newspaper as it continues to serve this diverse marketplace.

Aberdeen Publishing is one of Western Canada’s largest independent newspaper companies with properties in British Columbia and Alberta.

If you have the ability to innovate, are customer driven, success oriented, and want to live in one of the most beautiful places in Alberta, then we want to hear from you. We offer a generous compensation and benefits package as well as the opportunity for career advancement.

Please submit your resume by December 31, 2012, to the attention of: Ron Lovestone, Regional Manager Prince George Free Press 1773 South Lyon Street Prince George, BC V2N 1T3 Telephone 778.349.6327 or email publisher@northeastnews.ca

Need to upgrade?

WE HAVE A [ PROGRAM ] FOR THAT. Preparation for University and College provides a personalized plan for success. Get yours.

Call 780-497-4029.

Preparation for University and College

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

www.MacEwan.ca/preparation

BACK 43

ADULTCLASSIFIEDS To place an ad PHONE: 780.426.1996 FAX: 780.426.2889 / EMAIL: classifieds@vueweekly.com

NEED TO RELAX? NEED TO BE PAMPERED? I offer a great therapeutic massage I have an incall location or will come to you!

DAILY SPECIALS! Call Amy (780) 945-3384 I am a slim fit black girl I will never rush you!

Come relax with me! www.hotamysp.com

Lic. # 7313555-001 Outcall license number: 068956959-001 Hours of operation from 7am to 11pm

WOW Huge Grand Opening Specials New Ladies Discreet Location

www.velvettouchstudio.com 14817 Yellowhead Trail 780-489-7565

DAILY SPECIALS

Including 15 min, 1 hr, 2 for 1, Seniors Day, Jean Day! Call or come in for more details!

Early Morning Weekday Special between 7 - 10am $160. 1\2hr

44 BACK

9450.

Adult Massage

PASSIONS SPA

Happy Hour Every Hour!

Crissy - Gorgeous blue-eyed California Barbie. Very busty, tanned and toned.

Mae-Ling - Sweet and sexy, Chinese Geisha doll with a slender figure.

Candy - Petite, busty, bilingual African princess.

Faith Extremely busty flirtatious blonde, that will leave you wanting more.

AhanaDelightful, petite, naturally busty, blue-eyed brunette specializing in fetishes Mercedes - Exotic, sexy, young Puerto Rican sweetheart, busty with green eyes.

Kasha - Girl next door, naturally busty, European cutie.

Monica - Slim, busty, caramel, Latina beauty.

Jewel - Playful, energetic brown-eyed brunette with curves in all the right places.

Porsha - Blue-eyed, busty blonde Carly - Tall, busty, European cutie.

Ginger Busty, natural redhead with glamour girl looks 9947 - 63 Ave, Argyll Plaza www.passionsspa.com

780-414-6521 42987342

9450.

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

Adult Massage

Like Redheads That Are Slim N Fit? Do you need some TLC? Alyson is your girl! INCALL location Text I LIKE REDHEADS to (780) 938-3644 lic#6895659/44879215

9640.

Fetishes

A SISSY SLUT TRAINER Mistress Morganna (780) 454 - 1726 For all Bondage & Fetishes, Fantasy & Roleplay Call Desire - (780) 964 - 2725 Introductory Specials

9600.

Adult Products

WWW.GAYPORNEDMONTON.COM

9300.

Adult Talk

ALL HOT SEXY BABES talk dirty on After Hours! Try it FREE! 18+ 780.665.0808 403.313.3330

9300.

Adult Talk

Absolutely HOT chat!

18+ free to try. Local singles waiting.

780.669.2323 403.770.0990

9300.

Adult Talk

FUN, FLIRTY, LOCAL Women!

Call 780-490-2257 Try FREE! www.livelinks.com MEET SOMEONE IN EDMONTON! Edmonton Singles Have Been Calling The Edmonton Party Line for 20 years!

Meet New People...Make New Friends Try it FREE....780-44-PARTY MEET SOMEONE TONIGHT! Local Singles are calling GRAPEVINE. It’s the easy way for busy people to meet and it’s FREE to try! 18+ (780) 702-2223 Real People, Real Chat, Real Discreet Try FREE! Call 780-490-2257 www.livelinks.com

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19): Can you manage to be both highly alert and deeply relaxed? Could you be wildly curious and yet also serenely reflective? Can you imagine yourself being extra hungry to crack life's secrets but also at peace with your destiny exactly the way it is?

If you can honestly answer yes to those questions, you'll get a lot of help in the coming week. The universe may even seem to be conspiring to educate you and heal you. You will receive a steady flow of clues about how to get closer to living your dreams.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20): In the coming week, you would be wise to deal with your vulnerability, your fallibility and your own personal share of the world's darkness. If you refuse to do that, either out of laziness or fear, I'm worried that you will reinforce a status quo that needs to be overthrown. You may end up rationalizing your mistakes, clinging to false pride and running away from challenges that could make you

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

ROB BREZSNY // FREEWILL@VUEWEEKLY.COM

smarter and stronger. Don't do that, Taurus! Be brave. Be willing to see what's difficult to see. There will be big rewards if you choose to explore the weaker and less mature parts of your personality.

GEMINI (May 21 – Jun 20): In the 1968 Olympics, Bob Beamon broke the world record for the long jump. His leap was so far beyond the previous mark that the optical device designed to calculate it didn't work. Officials had to resort to an old-fashioned measuring tape. After that, the word "Beamonesque" came to signify a feat that vastly outstripped all previous efforts. According to my analysis, you Geminis will have an excellent chance to be Beamonesque in 2013. I expect that you will at least surpass your own peak levels of accomplishment. If you have not yet launched your ascent, get started now.

CANCER (Jun 21 – Jul 22): The fire ants that invaded the southern U.S. back

CONTINUED ON 45 >>

in the '30s are an annoyance. They swarm and bite and sting. The venom they inject makes their victims feel like they've been burned. Two communities have decided to make the best of the situation. Auburn, Georgia and Marshall, TX both stage annual Fire Ant Festivals, with events like the Fire Ant Call, the Fire Ant Round-Up, and the Fire Ant Chili Cook-Off. (To win the latter, your dish must contain at least one fire ant.) Maybe their example could inspire you, Cancerian. Is there any pest you could develop a more playful and festive relationship with?

Could you possibly turn into the equivalent of a Fire Ant Whisperer?

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 22): While reading William Kittredge's book, The Nature of Generosity, I learned about the oldest known sentence written in ancient Greek. It was inscribed on a wine jug that dates back to 740 BC. Translated into English, it says, "Who now of all dancers sports most playfully?" Another possible translation is, "Which of these dancers plays most delicately?" I'd love to make something like that be your mantra in the coming week, Leo. The time is right for you to do more dancing and playing and sporting than usual—and to seek out companions who'd like to help you achieve record-breaking levels of those recreational activities.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22): In the movie Groundhog Day, Bill Murray plays a man who gets trapped in a time loop. Over and over again, he experiences the same 24 hours. When he wakes up each morning, it's still February 2. At first it drives him crazy, pushing him to the verge of suicide. But eventually he decides to use his time wisely. He becomes a skilled pianist and a fluent French-speaker. He does good deeds and saves people's lives. He even learns what he needs to do to win the heart of the woman he desires. This transformation turns out to be the key to gaining his freedom.

Near the end of the film, he escapes to February 3. A comparable opportunity is looming for you, Virgo. You have a chance to break a spell you've been under or slip away from a rut you've been in. Generosity may play a major role.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22): Events in the immediate future may have resemblances to reading a boring book that's packed with highly useful information.

You might feel that there's a disjunction between the critical clues you need to gather and the ho-hum style in which they are offered. It's OK to be a bit disgruntled by this problem as long as you promise to remain alert for the partially disguised goodies. Don't fall asleep in the middle of the unspectacular lesson.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21): "Instinct tells us that sharks are more deadly than delicious fatty foods," writes Jason Daley in Discover Magazine. But "instinct is wrong," he adds. In fact, eating food that tastes good but is actually bad for us is a far greater threat than shark bites. That's just one example of how our uneducated urges can sometimes lead us astray. I invite you

to keep this possibility in mind during the coming week, Scorpio. It's by no means certain that you will be misled by your natural inclinations, but it is crucial that you monitor them with acute discernment.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21): For the last six decades of his life, Pablo Picasso created art that was adventurous and experimental. He didn't invent abstract painting, but he was instrumental in popularizing it. And yet in his early years he was a master of realism and had an impressive ability to capture the nuances of human anatomy. Commenting on Picasso's evolution, travel writer Rick Steves says that when he was young, "he learned the rules he would later so skillfully break." I suspect you're in a phase of your own development when you could profit from doing the same thing. So I ask you, Sagittarius: what are the rules that are so ripe for you to bend and twist as you graduate to a more mature level of self-expression?

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19): Through some cosmic intervention, a sad or bad or mad story will get tweaked prior to the final turn of the plot. Just as you're getting ready to nurse your regrets, an X-factor or wild card will appear, transforming the meaning of a series of puzzling events.

This may not generate a perfectly happy ending, but it will at least result in an interesting and redemptive climax.

What is the precise nature of that Xfactor or wild card? Perhaps a big secret will be revealed or some missing evidence will arrive or a mental block will crumble. And it's likely that you will have an epiphany abut how valuable your problem has actually been.

COMMENT >> SEX

Toys of the year Unusual sex toys to complete your holiday shopping

It's time for my annual search of the web For someone who enjoys for the most unique, unusual and a good nap, there's the in some cases just plain bizarre lap pillow. This is sex toys of the year. Still not a pillow to put in somesearching for the perfect gift one's lap, it is someone's lap. I om eekly.c @vuew for that sex geek on your list just can't do this one justice so brenda Brendear here's the description from the who has everything? Maybe Kerb one of these will fit the bill. website: "Longing for the feeling of Add a little whimsy, however comfort and warmth you only get from inappropriate, to your holiday parties, a woman's lap? Maybe you just want to with a penis ice luge by Lugez. With take a nap and need a pillow? Shaped this plastic mould you can make an ice just like a beautiful woman's lap, kneelsculpture of a male torso, complete ing in Japanese-style, the Hizamakura with frozen penis. Pour your drinks 'Lap Pillow' gives the best re-creation into the hole at the top and your available, complete with your choice of a guests will have them pissed directly red or black skirt to top it off." Although into their glasses, chilled and ready to the idea of laying your head in a fake disenjoy. Or, as Lugez poetically puts it, embodied woman's lap might seem re'Pour at the hip, drink at the tip.' ally creepy, I have to admit, it does look If you prefer a more realistic penis sculppretty comfy. ture, you can have the folks at 3DEA make For the athletic guy or gal on your list, a replica of yours. For only $250, you get there's the Pogo Sex Machine by LoveBotz. a private appointment where you receive Yes, this is what it sounds like. It looks a lot personalized instruction on how to get the like a pogo stick, but it has an attachment best possible scan of your family jewels. that looks like a giant hook with a dildo at3DEA then uses a 3D printer to create a tached to it. I'm sure this made sense in the mould and sends it off to be made into a head of the guy who created it, but all I can life-like sex toy. It's the perfect gift for the say is "Ouch!". What's even weirder than long distance lover or the ultimate narcisthe fact that this exists in the first place is sist. Unfortunately, you had to have been that you can buy it on Amazon. in New York on December 10 to get an apFor the meat-lover, there's bacon lube. pointment. Perhaps they'll do it again for This also, sadly, is exactly what it sounds like.

Valentine's Day. It's a water-based lubricant that smells and

LUST E LIF

FOR

// Japann ewbie.com

<< CONTINUED FROM 44

tastes like bacon. Sexy!

Another neat gift for the food and sex enthusiast is Cup Nude. This Japanese- made toy looks exactly like a package of instant noodles. However, instead of soup, there is a rubber masturbation sleeve inside.

This is perfect for a stress relief break at work, just don't get it mixed up with your real cup 'o noodles. Come to think of it, the Cup Nude and Bacon Lube might make a great gift set.

And finally, for the smartphone addict, there's the Vibease. This multi-function vibrator can be controlled via Bluetooth by any iPhone or Android device. Download the Vibease app and you can program the patterns on the toy or give the toy to a partner and send a Vibease request that lets you control the toy long-distance. Unfortunately, you can only give the promise of a Vibease for Christmas. You can pre-order it, but the toy itself won't be available until February of next year at the earliest. V Brenda Kerber is a sexual health educator who has worked with local not-for-profits since 1995. She is the owner of the Edmonton-based, sex-positive adult toy boutique the Traveling Tickle Trunk.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18): Be honest. Have you had any of the following symptoms? 1. Lack of interest in trivial matters and a yearning for big, holy mysteries. 2. Unfamiliar but interesting impulses rising up in you and demanding consideration. 3.

Fresh insights into people and situations you've known a long time. 4. An altered sense of the flow of time. 5.

Out-of-the-blue recall of long-forgotten memories. If you haven't experienced any of the above, Aquarius, I must be totally off in my analysis and this horoscope isn't for you. But if you've had even two of these symptoms, you are on schedule to get what those of us in the consciousness industry call a "religious experience."

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20): You just might be able to teach a statue to talk this week—or at least coax a useful message out of a stone-like person.

You could also probably extract a delicious clue from out of the darkness or wrangle a tricky blessing from an adversary or find a small treasure hidden in a big mess. In short, Pisces, you now have a knack for accessing beauty and truth in unexpected sources. You can see what everyone else is blind to and love what everyone else has given up on. You're practically a superhero.

Use your powers wisely, my friend. Be benevolently unpredictable.

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

BACK 45

COMMENT >> SEX

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a butt plug Dan discusses flying objects, soft dicks and more on the poly debate At a dinner party, a straight man put lodge one's butt plug, sending it flya question to my boyfriend and me. ing across one's room, or, if one's butt He assumed that we, being gay men, plug failed to dislodge and take flight, would have an answer for him. We did cause one to simply explode. not, Dan, and so we turn to you.

What happens to one if one E I had a conversation with a SAVAG has to fart while one is wearfriend who is an emergencying a butt plug? room physician. He told om eekly.c w Gays Are Simply Stumped, me about removing somee u v love@ savage Yes And Sincerely So thing—I can't remember n Da e g what—from a gentleman's a v a S If one is wearing a butt plug ass. My immediate response ("wear: to carry or to have on the body was to ask whether he had the flaredor about the person as a covering, orbase talk with the gentleman after nament or the like"), GASSYASS, then the fact. His response? "What are you one may pass gas, silently or noisily, talking about?" I explained that if the as one is wont to do, because a butt gentleman had used a butt toy with plug worn as a hat or a brooch or an a flared base, he wouldn't have been epaulet—that is, a butt plug worn on in the circumstances that brought him the body—presents no impediment. to the hospital. He had never thought But if one has fully inserted the bulof that and thanked me for the adbous end of the butt plug into one's vice. My partner is a physician and rectal cavity and one's sphincter mushas treated patients with anal "encles are gripping the neck of the butt cumbrances." He gives the flared-base plug, as they are wont to do, thereby advice to anyone who seems like they ensuring that the bulbous end remight benefit from it—but he tells me mains lodged in the rectal cavity this isn't something they go over in while the flared base remains outside med school. This shocks me because it of the rectal cavity (one could, if one seems like a topic where a little educawished to be pedantic, argue that one tion could do a lot of good. You should wears the flared base of the butt plug use your column to bring this to the against one's anus), what would then attention of medical school adminishappen if one attempted to pass gas? trators.

The force of the gas would either disConscience Cleared

LOVE

46 BACK

the risk of creating a problem.

I am sharing your letter, CC, in the hopes that doctors all over the world read it and promptly incorporate your "flared-base" advice into their practice. If they don't, well, then we will just have to conclude that flaredbase advice isn't given to patients by doctors—ER or otherwise—because doctors secretly enjoy digging various foreign objects out of the variable rectums of various gentlemen.

I'm a 19-year-old bisexual male. I've been in a two-year relationship with a girl who has a low sex drive, so we are in an open relationship and I occasionally have sex with guys. I really liked the last guy I got with and enjoyed having sex with him a lot. The problem was, I couldn't get hard. Is the problem that I'm still trying to figure out who I am and what I want? Am I not as attracted to guys as I thought I was? Or could it be guilt, even though my girlfriend is OK with it?

Bisexually Oriented Nervously Experiencing Reversal You say you "occasionally have sex with guys," BONER, which means this guy isn't your first. He's just the first guy—perhaps the first person—that you couldn't get hard with. Let me guess: this has never happened to you before. Of course it hasn't—you're 19.

But it happens to every guy sooner or later and you're much likelier to seek an explanation or attach some deeper meaning to it the first time it happens. (Maybe I'm not bi! Maybe it was guilt!) Don't waste your time, BONER. Sometimes a soft dick is just a soft dick. If it keeps happening, well, then you may have a problem. But if you go on obsessing about an isolated incident—perhaps brought on by nerves (you liked this guy, right?)—you run

I was on a layover in San Francisco. My attractive, bearish, platonic, straight male co-worker would like to know if it is weird that a guy complimented his shoes while at the urinal in the SFO bathroom.

Rhymes With Larry Craig?

Yes. As I was reading the letters in the last Savage Love, it occurred to me that the debate over polyamory as a "sexual orientation" is primarily one of definitions. Some folks who are poly see that as just as "core" to their nature as their gender preference. Therefore, I propose the following framework. We all have a sexual identity composed of four components: 1) Our gender identity ranging from cis to trans.

2) Our sexual orientation ranging from homo to hetero.

3) Our sexual exclusivity ranging from purely monogamous to purely polyamorous.

4) Our sexual interest ranging from asexual to highly sexual.

In my view, these four components are equal in that they are all things that we are rather than things that we choose. While it is possible to choose a lifestyle that deviates from one's sexual identity, in all cases doing so entails stress, cognitive dissonance and some degree of self-loathing. Like all conceptual frameworks, this one is not necessarily complete. It fails to include sexual interest in animals, particular age groups, or any of several hundred kinks, all of which are traits that seem to be more identity than choice. That said, I do think there is something unique and universally applicable in the four-component scheme

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

and I think that we should, as a society, set a goal of acceptance and nondiscrimination surrounding all aspects of sexual identity.

Just My Thoughts I like your model, JMT, but it has to be said: at a certain point, endless Tumblr-enabled debates about sexual identity, gender identity, sexual orientation and sexual interests take on the flavour of those how-many-angels-can-dance-on-the-head-of-a-pin debates that obsessed theologians in the Middle Ages.

For the record: each of us is free— and remains free—to identify however we wish and to apply the labels "identity" and/or "orientation" however we please. If a particular person isn't trying to take anything away from you, then the fact that the person holds slightly differing views on identity or orientation, or the meanings of those words, or just how many angels can dance on the head of a pin, well, it really isn't an enormous fucking deal, is it? And, in my opinion, those who spend their time debating, classifying and unpacking sex and identity run a very real risk of disappearing up their own ass in a puff of santorum. Which is my way of saying ...

No, I won't be giving a column over to angry letters from buttsore people who feel that D/s is their sexual orientation, despite being told that I must because last week I suggested that, from my point of view, D/s is a sexual identity, not an orientation, and I gave a column to angry poly folks so it's only fair and blah blah blah. V Find the Savage Lovecast (my weekly podcast) every Tuesday at thestranger.com/savage. @fakedansavage on Twitter

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012

BACK 47

48 the japandroids strike back!

VUEWEEKLY DECEMBER 13 – DECEMBER 19, 2012