LINDSAY KNGHT
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JOHNNY DEPP IS TONTO?
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HOLIDAY SHOPPING
NEW TRIBE magazine NAKKITA TRIMBLE
IS MAKING HER OWN PATH
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ROMEO SAGANASH
*GEAR UP FOR WINTER *SAINT KATERI TEKAKWITHA U AROUND TOWN
Free Vol. 11 Issue 6 NOVEMBER 2012 Now Available online www.usay.ca
NOTEBOOK from*the*editor Hello New Tribe Readers,
out on Face book and join our growing friends list. We post Happy holidays and welcome upcoming events, submission to the December/January issue requirements and deadlines, and of New Tribe fun stuff like Magazine. All upcoming movie the staff at nights and book USAY wish clubs. It is also everyone a a great place to safe and happy comment on holiday season. stories or articles you wish to see This issue covers in our upcoming both December issues. and January so it’s packed full Do you have an of great articles, opinion on this community issue of New profiles, and Tribe magazine? reviews to help keep you warm Good, bad, or ugly send in your during the winter season. thoughts and we will print it in I also want to mention that the letters section. USAY/New Tribe is moving offices and we will announce Spread the word, and stay true to particulars once everything is it. finalized. John Medeiros Need updates on upcoming Managing Editor USAY and New Tribe Magazine New Tribe Magazine events? Feel free to search us
NEW TRIBE
Calgary’s Aboriginal Youth Monthly usayeditor@gmail.com Managing Editor John Medeiros Graphic Design Aboriginal Design Group Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth Suite 609, 615 Macleod Trail South Calgary, Alberta T2G 4T8 403.233.8225 Executive Director LeeAnne Ireland Program Manager Rachel Paris Office Manager Jessica Hawryluk Board of Directors President Sarena Provost Vice-President Amanda Gonet Treasurer Melaina Patenaude Secretary Cheryl Hanley
NEW TRIBE is a monthly magazine. Our mission is to promote a positive outlook on Aboriginal living in an urban setting by promoting information sharing within the Aboriginal and youth communities Opinions expressed in submitted work/letters are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of NEW TRIBE or USAY. This magazine is a forum for Aboriginal youth to speak their minds and share their stories without intervention. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for plagiarism of the works in the magazine. All writings are presumed to be the original work of the contributing authors.
Special Thanks to our Community Partners & Funders
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NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
CONTENTS
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14 DEC/JAN
COVER STORY
NAKKITA TRIMBLE
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Story by Aj Bellegarde
Photography by Tyson Meers
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COMMUNITY
7 WHAT’S GOING ON?
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SHOPPING
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26
JOHNNY DEPP
10 ONE DAY TO LIVE
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COMMUNITY
12 ON THE TABLE
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MUSIC REVIEW
14 WINTER BLUES
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MOVIE REVIEW
16 LINDSAY KNIGHT
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LITERALLY
18 NO MORE MOMENTS
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DRUM & DANCE
19 COMMUNITY
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U AROUND TOWN
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NEWS BRIEFS
COMMUNITY
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NEWS*BRIEFS
Aboriginal Happenings From Across Canada Residential Schools window dedicated on Parliament Hill
OTTAWA -A ceremony was held on Parliament Hill Monday to dedicate a new stained glass window to commemorate the legacy of Indian Residential Schools.
House of Commons Speaker Andrew Scheer accepted the new window on behalf of Canadians. Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan called the design a Ò profound and moving piece of art.Ó
Elders, former students and young people spoke passionately of their own experiences, praying and singing during the dedication.
Belcourt called her work Giniigaaniimenaaning, which means Ò looking aheadÓ in an Ojibway language.
Some recalled the pain the schools caused multiple generations of CanadaÕ s aboriginal community and others spoke of the need to move forward from the mistakes of the past.
The year 2008 is featured at the top of the window Ñ a reference to the Canadian government’s official apology that year to survivors of Indian Residential Schools. SOURCE -CBC NEWS
The artwork, which is now installed above the membersÕ entrance to the House of Commons, was designed by MŽ tis artist Christi Belcourt. A committee of aboriginal art experts and former students of the schools unanimously selected her design, unveiled last June. The chosen design was translated into stained glass by Vision Art Glass Studio.
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B.C. First Nation members evict pipeline surveyors, set up road block
Members of a First Nation in northern British Columbia have evicted surveyors working on a natural gas pipeline project from their territory, seized equipment and set up a roadblock against all pipeline activity.
NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
A group identifying itself as the UnisÕ totÕ en clan of the WetÕ suwetÕ en Nation said surveyors for Apache Canada’s Pacific Trails Pipeline were trespassing. Ò The UnisÕ totÕ en clan has been deadset against all pipelines slated to cross through their territories, which include PTP (Pacific Trails Pipeline), Enbridge’s Northern Gateway and many others,Ó Freda Huson, a spokesperson for the group, said in a statement. Ò As a result of the unsanctioned PTP work in the UnistÕ otÕ en yintah, the road leading into the territory has been closed to all industry activities until further notice.Ó Ms. Huson was not available for further comment. But according to a statement issued by the group Wednesday night, the surveyors were denied access to the territory Wednesday morning at a bridge crossing the Morice River, which runs through the Skeena region SOURCE -THE GLOBE AND MAIL
COMMUNITY
INTRODUCING Levi First Charger Hi, my name is Levi First Charger and I am the new Community Outreach Support Worker for the Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY). I graduated in April of 2012 from Justice Studies specialized in Youth Justice. While I was in school I did my practicum at USAY and I really enjoyed it and the staff made me feel welcome at their organization. I was really impressed with the fun and educational programs they offered the Aboriginal youth of Calgary and in my mind I wanted to work at USAY or another organization just like USAY. After a short time, I graduated I received a phone call from USAY saying they had position for me if I was interested and I told them I was very interested. So, I went to the job interview at USAY and I got the job position as USAY’s new Community Outreach Support Worker. My role as a Community Outreach Support Worker is to attend youth, community, and partnerships events where I promote USAY and make new contacts and partnerships. Also, I will be encouraging Aboriginal youth to join our USAY membership because it offers them an opportunity to access USAY’s programs and have a voice in the organization. I am very excited to be USAY’s new Community Outreach Support Worker and to work with the youth and the community in the near future. Sincerely Levi First Charger
Community Outreach Support Worker Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
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TRIBE*ART
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NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
What’s Going On? DECEMBER/JANUARY,2012/13 Dec 08 Mother Mother in Concert Animation Festival Jubilee Auditorium Calgary, AB Dec 15 Christmas Market Crossroads Community Centre Calgary, AB Dec 15 Jadakiss in Concert Republik Calgary, AB Dec 20 Jingle Bell Rock 2012 with Alexisonfire BMO Centre Calgary, AB Dec 21 Tiesto - Club Life Calgary BMO Centre Calgary, AB Dec 25 Christmas! Dec 28 Polar Music Festival BMO Centre Calgary, AB
Dec 31 Chixdiggit in Concert Dickens Pub Calgary, AB
Ghost River Rediscovery Presents Junior Urban Rediscovery youth group nights for all youth ages 8-12 meets every Tuesday from 5:30pm8:00pm Urban Rediscovery youth group nights for all youth ages 13-17 meets every Thursday from 6:00pm9:00pm.
Jan 10 The Harlem Globetrotters Scotiabank Saddledome Calgary, AB Jan 12 Nelly Furtado in Concert Jubilee Auditorium Calgary, AB
New Moon youth group nights for girls only ages 13-17 meets the last Wednesday of every month from 6:00pm-9:00pm For more information please call 403-270-9351.
Jan 19 Chestermere Winterfest Chestermere Lake Jan 20 Strawberry Shortcake Jubiliee Auditorium Calgary, AB
Calgary YMCA Rec night Every Tuesday 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Jan 20 FIS World Snow Day Canmore Nordic Centre Canmore, AB If you have an event youÕ d like us to include in our monthly calendar, email it to us - usayeditor@gmail.com by the third Wednesday of the month. Submission deadline for the February 2013 issue: jan 25
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POETRY Thoughts of You by Rene Drake I think of you when the early morning dawn slowly comes, just when the light of the sun breaks through the dark, just when the morning begins to form, thoughts of you warm the depths of my heart. I think of you when I hear the morning birds begin to sing, I pretend it’s your sweet voice calling, even when the words of my prayers just begin, all the while the morning drew drops are slowly falling. Your love for me has changed my life’s course, Simply by you believing in who I am. In loving you I know my heart made the right choice, I promise I will always do all that I can. I think of you when I start to feel all alone, I recall all that we had done and said, I know while I’m in love with you I’ll never be alone, You occupy every space that lays in mt head. When I have to say good bye to the sun and welcome the dark, I bow my head and silently say I love you, a warm feeling of love flows into my heart, all because of sweet thoughts of you
MOTHER NATURE by On Dre 2 Hornsz Whos’z Da last man 2 stand Were all in God’s hand U and I know dat dis world is goin to end Dat could be extended We just got 2 pretend Seeing and living like da past We don’t focus on Mother Nature It’s all about the future Wonder who’s da first 2 destroy her Da worldz gone sour 2 much technology and power Mankind could be destroyed in an hour Every year da world is getrin worse Da devilz here 2 curse Wonder when da worst is about 2 burst It’s like Mother Nature’s on da booze She has a short fuze Wonder if shes’z goin 2 win Or goin 2 looze
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NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
COMMUNITY
NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
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COMMUNITY
One Day To Live
by Cory Littlelight
I think a lot of times we tend to forget how short this life actually is. I also think that most of us out there, including myself at times, take our lives too much for granted. I mean if you really stop to think about it the average human life expectancy is only 70 Ð 90 years of age. In this day and age youÕ re very lucky and very blessed if you even make it to the tender age of 90, especially with all of the deadly diseases that are in 10
our world today. In fact, more people today are dying at very young ages at an epidemic rate due to diseases like cancer, HIV, diabetes and what not. It is also a known fact that our own First Nation community has the highest rate of diabetes, more than any other race in the whole entire country. And I guess the whole point that IÕ m trying to get across is, we as people of mother earth need to realize that our lives
NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
are very short and we need to take advantage of the time that we have while we are here. We need to live life to the fullest and live each and every day like itÕ s our last, because you never know when your life could end. There is no guarantee for tomorrow, so live for today. DonÕ t keep living in the past or the future. I mean itÕ s perfectly okay to plan for the future but really, you should just be
COMMUNITY living for today, in the moment. We need to take advantage of every minute of our precious lives. Make the most of every day! Because time is our most precious gift and we only have a set amount of it. I just canÕ t stop stressing enough to all of you New Tribe readers out there on how important it really is to live your lives to the absolute fullest, and never take your life for granted. Because the reality of it is, tomorrow may never come. So when you come home from work or school today, make sure that you hug and kiss your children, husband, wife and all of your loved ones. Let them know that you love them and tell them just how much they are truly appreciated, because we only get one life and we only get one life to live, share and love one another. And isnÕ t that what life is really all about? We need to live each and every day like itÕ s our last. I also realize that sometimes we can all get too caught up in the everyday stress and responsibilities of todayÕ s fast paced moving society, and this includes myself as well. Sometimes we just need to slow down a bit, take a step back and take a look at the real important things that really matter in our lives. We need to stop worrying so much about money, bills, jobs, and all of the material things in this world and start focusing on the
most important, precious thing in life like our families, children and our own aboriginal culture. We need to take advantage of every possible opportunity to give back to our Native communities and to share and to love one another. Because that, my friends, is what this life is really all about. And when I say we all need to live each and every day like itÕ s our last, IÕ m not trying to scare everyone and say that the world is going to end tomorrow, or that youÕ re going to die and this is your last day on earth, all IÕ m saying is that we need to realize that this life is short, this life is precious and you really never know when it could be over. Like I said before, none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow. Most importantly, I think we need to always ask ourselves, Ò What is it we are living for?Ó What is your purpose in life? Is it your children, your family, your husband, wife, friends, serving God, your job, money or material things? Whatever it is, the message IÕ m trying to get across is that each and every one of us should have a purpose. For me personally, my purpose in life is to serve Creator better, learn from all of my mistakes and just try to become a better person, a better Native, a better man. And I think that all of us need to have a purpose in life and
a purpose for living. Because when we have a purpose driven life, then we have a meaning for our existence and that is so very important. It is one of the most important keys to living a good life, to have purpose and meaning. Everybody needs it, because without it, youÕ re just empty with no direction. So my personal advice to all of you is to just live your life. Be happy, be confident, be optimistic, have hope and never give up on yourself. And most importantly, be proud of your Native culture. Be proud to be Native. Live your lives to the fullest and never take your life for granted because you just never know when it will be your time to go. Nobody really knows when their life will end and nobody on this earth is guaranteed a tomorrow because tomorrow doesnÕ t exist yet. So I say to you all, live each day as if it were your last, like you only have one day to live and make it count. For some of you out there, you need to learn to quit living your life in the past and stop allowing your past to dictate your future. Remember that you are always in control of your own life, dreams and destiny. So reach for the sky! Live your life and donÕ t be afraid to face your fears. And finally, live for the moment and live in theÓ nowÓ , because Ò nowÓ is all that we have.
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FLAVOR
On the Table Gingerbread Cookies INGREDIENTS 6 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 cup shortening 1 cup molasses 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup water 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract DIRECTIONS Sift together the flour, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon; set aside. In a medium bowl, mix together the shortening, molasses, brown sugar, water, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, until they are completely absorbed. Divide dough into 3 pieces, pat down to 1 1/2 inch thickness, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters. Place cookies 1 inch apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove from the baking sheet to cool on wire racks. When cool, the cookies can be frosted with the icing of your choice. 12
NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
crafts
Crafts POPCORN GARLAND Materials 2/3 cup popped popcorn Medium paper bag Dried apricots Dried cranberries Needle and thread INSTRUCTIONS First, get some popcorn ready. Microwave or the old fashioned way. ;-) Next, thread a needle with about 36 inches of white thread doubled to make the thread strong and a workable 18 inches long. Tie a knot at the end. Choose a pattern to repeat, for example, two pieces of popcorn followed by a dried apricot, then two more pieces of popcorn followed by a dried cranberry. String several short garlands, then hang them on the tree. Feel free to substitute the materials to make your own unique garlands. NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
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COMMUNITY
KEEPING THE WINTER BLUES AWAY by Christine McFarlane
Winter is here, and Christmas is not that far around the corner either. Just the thought of both can make you cringe, especially if you are not a fan of putting on boots, and big heavy coats to protect you from a cold that chills you to the bone. Or what about those shopping malls teeming with millions of people trying to get their gifts, not caring who they trample upon while in the process? We often think of the holidays as a time to be happy and oh so joyful! Sadly, that’s not always the case for everyone. People can get really sad and depressed, especially when it comes to thinking about all the things you need to do and the reasons can vary significantly for every individual. For myself, winter can be a trying
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time because I live in an apartment that has no windows, and I am more prone to my depression acting up if I don’t keep myself active enough. The holiday season can also bring back many reminders of the losses in my life; so keeping a list of things that are helpful for me to do is integral to my health and wellness.
The Things That I Do To Help Me Cope:
1.Listening to music- especially music that is inspirational (for me that can be ABBA-I Have A Dream, I Won’t Back Down-Tom Petty etc) we all have our own music that we find inspirational in one way or another) Go through your music library and add some Wintertime and the holiday of your favorite music to your mp3 season can bring up many issues player or iPod, and listen to music for everyone. It is up to us all as for awhile. individuals to find the best way to cope with whatever may rise in the 2. Journaling- This is important most positive way that we can. I to me, especially as a writer am going to write what I believe but writing can be helpful for is helpful to me in coping with anyone, especially if you want to winter and Christmas and I hope vent feelings that you are having that these same ideas I list will difficulty with. Just the act of work for you or that you can add getting a pen and paper out and writing things out can help you to these ideas to your own list.
NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
Community stay well emotionally, physically, spiritually and mentally. 3. Art- I love to paint and draw. I find that often throughout the year I will go for spells where I am not doing any artwork, and I feel like something is missing. Even if it’s for a few minutes a day, or with your kids, or in my case, my nieces, take some time to sit down and draw, colour or paint. There’s something about sitting down with children and colouring/drawing with them that makes you feel like you’re smiling from the inside out. 4. Exercise- I do a lot of walking, and though it can often be hard to do when its really cold out, it’s still good to get out and get some walking in. It helps to clear your mind and gets your heart pumping. I often find that by getting out and going for a walk, I feel a lot better than if I was to stay in and just sit on the couch and do nothing but sleep. Walking for even 10-15 minutes is better than getting no exercise at all. 5. Visiting/Calling People- Getting out to see people can often be hard when you are feeling sad or depressed, but its important for all of us to keep in touch with the people in our lives. If you live alone, make it a point to call someone and ask them if you can spend time with them, or speak with them for a little bit. Make the time to go and see a neighbor or friend that you know is alone;
visiting with each other can help things you don’t necessarily need you both. and donate your unwanted items to a local charity. Every once in 6. Entertainment- Go out to see awhile, I go through my things, a movie, or that play you have and then tote what I think others in wanted to see. Visit a museum, or need may want down to the local a Friendship Centre, do something Oasis bin. Luckily for me, that is that will take your mind off of right down the street for me. If you yourself and whatever is troubling can’t make the trip by yourself, you. Are you a gamer? Someone maybe ask a friend if they can who loves playing games on his drive you to your local non-profitor her WII, X-Box, or on other Value Village, Salvation Army gaming systems? Host a gaming etc. Helping others who don’t party! Invite some like-minded have anything, can help boost friends over who enjoy the same your mood and remind you how thing, and have some friendly fortunate you really are, especially competition. when you are feeling kind of down on yourself. 7. Reading- Reading can be a very solitary activity, but it can also be Please do what makes you feel good, especially if you pick a book good, and remember that even that gets you to think about things though you may think you are alone other than yourself. For book in feeling a multitude of feelings lovers, catching up on a book you with winter and the holidays upon have wanted to read all year can be us, you are not. Do not be afraid greatly satisfying. I basically have to reach out or help someone else, my own library in my apartment. your help or your company can Now that winter is upon me, and mean the world to someone else, Christmas is around the corner, I even if you don’t think it will. plan on making a list of the books I really want to finish and follow through by reading the books that are on that list. 8. Cleaning/Organizing- All year we accumulate things, whether that is clothing, books, or trinkets. If you are someone who likes order and cleanliness, try setting aside time to clean one area of your apartment or house. One day you can clean your working space, or your sleeping space, get rid of NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
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COMMU NITY
Lindsay “Eekwol” Knight
by Charles Atlas Sheppard photo by Nadya Kwandibens
Sometimes, you’ll see a musician in a live performance, or hear their music at a party or on the radio and you wonder, “Why isn’t this person more famous?” That’s the feeling I get whenever I encounter the artistry of Eekwol, aka Lindsay Knight. Admittedly, I have a love/hate relationship with hip hop music. I love and respect the street poetry, the DIY activism, the drama and self-empowerment. I hate the glorification of violence, misogyny, homophobia and the get rich or die trying ethics. What I hate most about hip hop is the lack of originality, it’s like a photocopy of a photocopy of a photocopy. Eekwol is one of the few artists who strive for originality and 16
who develop a unique voice and take a strong political and cultural stance. If you haven’t heard her music yet take a moment now to Google her name. There’s plenty of online links to hear her music.
we began to learn about the industry and how to find success from a Do It Yourself(DIY) perspective. The main thing I’ve learned about the business is that it’s an extreme amount of work that gets you places. It doesn’t matter how talented you How did you get your start in are, if you don’t put in work and the business? hustle, you won’t get very far. I’ve been into writing poetry It took me many years to grasp and raps since I was about 14 that! years old. When my brother and cousins formed the hip What inspired you towards hop crew, Innersoulflow in that career path? 1997, we started putting songs The absolute love of music, together, recording music and plain and simple. Words and it just escalated from there. We beats move me like nothing had our first show opening for else. I’ve always felt that good my Uncle Chester Knight in lyrics are such a powerful tool 1998, which was my first taste to speak about our Indigenous of the stage. I was hooked ever experience and history, both the since. I started doing solo stuff good and bad. It’s the ideal job around 2002 and with the help cause it’s a lot of work but it’s of my brother/beatmaker, Mils what I have a serious passion
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COMMU NITY and dedication for. How tough is it being a female in a male dominated medium? I’m not gonna lie, it has been a challenge since the beginning. Fortunately I started doing this with my family(brother, cousins), who treated me as a rapper, not a “female” rapper. It wasn’t until I began performing in public that I started to experience the difference in being a woman on stage. Much of the attention I received was not because I was alright at being a rapper, it was because I was a novelty. I’ve also been approached by many males in disrespectful ways, with sexually charged comments, derogatory suggestions, you name it. You’d be surprised as some of these people are so respected in the industry. I’ve spent many of my years speaking out against the portrayal of women in hip hop and popular music in general. For example, I can’t stand the word “femcee” as it set women who rap apart from men as a sub-category of emcee. I’ve tried to trend the word, “mancee” but it doesn’t seem to catch the same way! I tell young women interested in music that there is no reason other than confidence in self that can would make you not as good of a rapper as the next guy. We all have minds, voice boxes and the ability to keep rhythm (most of us!). It’s not like playing football where guys are generally physically stronger, etc. It boils down to confidence in self, natural talent and crazy practice. I’m at the point now where I really don’t care what people think of me. I have never done this to impress guys and I don’t let lack of confidence or
intimidating people get the best of what you absolutely love, but one that I can think of right now is me. sharing the stage with one of my What would you consider your favorite rappers of all time, Buck 65 at the Regina Folk Festival. career highlight? That’s a tricky one as there’s That was golden. a few. First of all, winning the Canadian Aboriginal Music What are you currently working Award for Best Hip Hop Album on? for The Apprentice to the Mystery As I mentioned, I’ll be on a bit as Mils and I worked so hard on of a hiatus stage-wise, although making this album as classic as I have an album fully in the possible. And then the following works that just needs some more popularity with community and instrumentation and recording college radio, great album sales sessions. I’ll be using much more and royalties from this album and Cree language than before as I then the next two on really showed continue to learn and speak it. I me that people dug what I was feel that it needs to be a part of putting out there. In 2010 – 2011 music as most of my audience is I was invited to quite a few music Indigenous and the reason I do festivals which are an extremely this music is to connect on both great opportunity to make fans a physical and spiritual level. Our and sales as thousands of people ancestors spoke and understand Cree, so out of respect; I try to use attend these every year. the language as much as possible. What will you be doing five Lowpoint? I’ve been fortunate enough to say years from now? that I’ve never really experienced a low point that I didn’t create If all goes well, exactly what for myself on purpose. What I I’m doing right now, writing, mean is that I had my son four recording and performing music. years ago and that slowed things Of course, with my lil fam in tow! down for a little while, although it picked up ten times as fast a What advice would you give to year later so I’m grateful for all of kids who want to follow in your the highs and lows as they build footsteps? stability and endurance. I plan to Be as original as you can! If you go on another low pretty quick as try to act like another rapper, I’m expecting my second child musician, etc., people may think in December 2012! The funny it’s cool for a minute, but in the thing about it is that kids are an long term you won’t last. I have immense form of inspiration and many influences, but my style and love that they give you the ability sound is all my own. Know who to write stuff that you would have you are, where you’re from and never thought possible before you what you stand for. It’s taken me became a parent. My last album years to hone it, but originality is the only way to gain interest in the was dedicated to my lil man. industry. Also, be ready for some What is your favourite moment? There’s so many good moments hard work and hustle! and experiences when you do NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
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UPDATE
NO MORE MOMENTS
by Carlin Blackrabbit
No More Moments wins Calgary Beer Core award for Ò Best New BandÓ Ò It was quarter to seven on a cold Saturday night, and of coarse we were running late. Tonight we were attending the 6th annual Calgary Beer Core awards. Every year the CBC acknowledges bands and No More Moments were up for Ò Best New BandÓ . Personally, I didnÕ t think we had a chance winning. Myself along with Ty (guitars, vocals) were just excited we got nominated for something so cool. So weÕ re travelling down the 901 highway, just leaving the reserve. The time is now 7:15pm and again something always to interrupt us. I had left my snare drum and cymbals at home. We also a gig across the alley at Verns tonight. So while biting my tongue, we turn around and waste another twenty minute. The frustration
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continues, but we eventually back en route from Siksika to Calgary. The awards were being hosted at the Distillery(best known for some great punk rock shows). We finally arrive in Calgary at around 8;45pm-ish and get a tweet from my good friend Jordan. His band Doberman were up for the same award and I wanted to them. This wasnÕ t the case though, the tweet said Ò @carlinhasaidea @Nomoremoments you just won best new band at CBC awards!!!! Congrats mang :)”. I immediately started honking the horn and yelling to Ty Ò we wonÓ . Mind you, we are on McLeod Trail heading to the awards. Me and Ty were both in disbelief. How could a band that was from a native reserve where no one thought we would go nowhere win something so awesome. We have been told we Ò were not going to makeÓ recently, which was not a big deal but this was a way to silence the doubt for us. It
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really was a good feeling. We finally arrived at the D, and as soon as we entered people began congratulating us. All our favorite bands like Bloated Pig, Breathe Knives, Kyoktys, Stab,twist,pull gave us props. Like I said it really was a great feeling. What was more meaningful that night was getting the award which was in a CBC tradition a gold beer bottle. Even though we were not there to accept our award it was truly a humbling experience. So inclosing, it was worth it playing shows on weeknights, sacrificing sleep, getting screwed over, getting bear maced, falling through balconies, loosing bass players, and being away from our family. We plan to keep going and tour in 2013. If you are reading this thank you for your time. Find us on facebook, twiiter, and instagram; its NO MORE MOMENTS.Ó -Carlin Black Rabbit(drums)
COMMUNITY
GIFTS FROM THE CREATOR by Tia Ledesma Ó I love youÓ
For those who are raised in foster care, raised by the government, The three simple words, to let not only are they separated from someone know we care. family members but also may have no cultural connection. Without Some of us say it freely or perhaps family ties and a self identity to everyday to the ones we care their heritage, it may be difficult for, before we begin our day and for them to feel like they belong before we go to sleep. But for and loved. some, it is non-existing statement, too difficult to utter, let alone say As a whole, native people are with sincerity. And this is a sad resilient and many have succeeded truth for many of our aboriginal in overcoming our inter people who have experienced generational trauma and cycles of residential schools, family violence abuse. or child welfare. However, many are still in the In traditional aboriginal beliefs, cycle, generation after generation. children are our gifts from the It is so unfortunate that many creator. As parents and caregivers aboriginal young people we see we hold a sacred connection with today are struggling to raise our children. Ours to nurture so children, because of abuse or that when they are grown, can addictions. As well as the fact become leaders of tomorrow. that aboriginal children are Many parents and caregivers focus represented more than any other more on the physical well being race in Canada in the child welfare and the academic teachings that system. we may forget the cultural and spiritual aspects in raising children, Thousands of kids who, which is vital, especially for native for whatever reason are people. apprehended at a young age feel the disconnection from family
and culture and are not able to understand or comprehend why they are not with who they love. Our leaders of the future are lost and feel abandoned and it is the role of the community and the government to fill the void, in order to prevent dysfunctional adults in the future. Calgary is improving as a community to give these tools to parents, caregivers, and children. The future is bright and Aboriginals nation to nation are continuing to strive to bring back traditional teachings and acknowledgement of our need to create paths of healing. Children are the key to change in the future. When they are given a sense of belonging in family, community, are proud and knowledgeable of tradition at a young stage in life, values are instilled in their spirits. So they may grow-up and become successful aboriginal adults. As well as future parents raising their children, to freely say to their young ones, Ò I love youÓ .
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photography by: Robin Sutherland, MAAIINGAN Productions
Community
Nakkita Trimble on Art, Culture, and Tattoos. by Aj Bellegarde photography by Tyler Meers
Nakkita Trimble didn’t take an art class in high school until she was in Grade 12, but she has always known that she is an artist. “I remember sitting in the kitchen at the table with a pad of paper when I was four years old. My grandparents raised me and my grandfather constantly had me drawing. My grandmother was really creative and we were always making things out of different materials, and I was always working with my hands. I made a lot of things out of PlayDoh,” she laughs. “But I always had sketchbooks. I’d draw cartoon characters and make comic books. I’d write poetry and make drawings.” A few short years ago, Nakkita was only 20 years old when she decided to attend art school. She had many options, but she chose to attend Red Deer College’s Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Program. “When I moved to Red Deer, I had never even been there before. I didn’t know anyone. Not one person. I just did it. I don’t know why I did it. I just kept going with what was working, rather than following a designated plan.” At RDC, she completed her first two years of the Degree and transferred
to Calgary’s Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD) to complete her program. Nakkita knew that it was going to take a lot of sacrifices to finish school. “While I was in Red Deer I made it home once for Christmas. Other than that I was working two jobs going to school full time. When I had breaks from school, I was working as much as I could.” In art school, Nakkita majored in ceramics, but was able to explore many other mediums. The most interesting Nakkita says, was her ‘wearable art’ class. “I really found that just expressing myself in any medium was way more exciting than majoring in just one.” Even though making art and being creative always came easily to Nakkita, she says, “Deadlines are the biggest challenge, like making 20 projects happen in a week. You have to be creative visually and then you have to be creative with your words. Sometimes you’re uninspired and you’ve got a block and you break through it at 4 o’clock in the morning and you’re exhausted the next day.” While her formal education taught Nakkita many things about technique and theory,
it also taught her to interpret art in differently. “You can be creative, but to think creatively is something you don’t learn in high school. You don’t learn it in any other focused program. In art school, they teach you how to think creatively.” In the four and a half years that Nakkita was away from home following her dream, she learned a lot about herself. “I think based on my experience, if you’ve only ever known what you grew up around, you need to experience something else in order to understand what you had. Once you leave, you can understand or appreciate what you have or didn’t have.” “I grew up in Prince Rupert, which is a rainforest. I made a lot of killer whales and sunsets and things in my environment”, says the now 25 year old from her home in Prince Rupert, BC, in the heart of Nisga’a Nation territory. Though she was heavily inspired by her home on BC’s northwest coast, Nakkita’s Nisga’a heritage hasn’t always figured prominently in her work. She adds, “My grandmother is First Nations and my grandfather was Irish. I
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COMMUNITY was raised in a catholic home. My grandmother said ‘Nakkita was born an Indian but wasn’t raised as one’, and that has always stuck with me.” She says that exploring her First Nations heritage through her art has been a gradual progression. “My first two years in art school I didn’t make anything to do with my traditions. I had one instructor who always tried to bring it out of me, but I still wasn’t ready for it.” She says a summer job changed all of that. “In my first year in ACAD in Calgary, I got a job out of town. I worked on a First Nations reserve, Heart Lake, in Alberta. I was the artist-in-residence and a teacher. I worked with an elder, who smudged every day, and taught me a lot of things, like how to cut fish and how to dance. I was completely immersed in this Cree community, because we were isolated out in the bush. And something changed in me. I kind of snapped into a realization that I should be proud of who I am.” That experience lead to a revitalization in Nakkita’s work. “In my forth year I started to research my heritage in depth in terms of residential school and how that affected us. I’m part of this generation that has to fix that and turn that around. I grew up exploring very little 22
of my identity. I am now becoming increasingly involved with my culture and seeking what it means to be a strong First Nations woman in today’s society.” Nakkita followed her dream all the way to art school in Calgary Alberta. Now that she has a Degree in Fine Art, Nakkita has a lot of options. Currently, her day job is working as a tattoo artist. She says there are a lot of things that she loves about getting to tattoo someone. “I love the fact that people walk around with a piece of me.” She adds, “It’s such a rush to put a permanent image on somebody. Going into it, it’s kind of like a meditative state and you’re focused on that one line in front of you and that’s it. And you’re just focussed on your hand and your breath and how to coordinator them to make the smoothest line possible.”
really is important to me. I am working on photography, and skin art, and translating tattooing techniques on to hide to create both two and three dimensional works. These works will correlate with significant First Nations people in my life using traditional materials in a new way. They will tell stories that most have not heard. They will show lineage, truth, and effects of residential schools on residential school survivors. The materials will talk about the land, and how nature provides for us. These two ideas coming together will connect nature with people in the past and present time.”
Whether it’s a tattoo, a drawing, or photography, Nakkita says that there are a lot of things she loves about sharing her art because it is so much a part of her. “I’ve always been nervous about showing my work, but what I like is watching people As for youth who are unsure react. It’s like someone finding of their future, she says, “Do your journal and reading a page something big and extreme. It out of it right in front of you.” may be scary, but you’re never going to know otherwise.” With a flare that only a true artist possesses, Nakkita says, That fearless attitude is “When I talk about making art, something that Nakkita displays I’m talking about a compulsion in her art. She’s currently deep within me that I can’t working on a project that control. I just know that I have promises to be innovative. “I to do it.” can tattoo people during the day and then at night do what
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COMMUNITY
Holiday Shopping
While Christmas is meant to be a time for relaxation, this holiday may make those with a limited budget feel stressed from seemingly not being able to afford gifts for those they care about. If you feel this way, don’t worry! With a little planning, you can get thoughtful gifts for everyone this season while remaining well within your budget. Here’s how. 1. Make a List Before you hit the stores or start your online shopping, try to make a list of everyone you wish to get a gift for. After you’ve created your list, set a 24
firm budget that is realistic and stick to it. A simple spreadsheet, virtual or on paper, can be very helpful in this process. If you are buying multiple gifts for the same person, subtract each item from the total as you shop. Make sure your gift expectations are reasonable and within your means. Small gift cards, gourmet food items, or even handwritten thank you notes are often appreciated more than expensive and elaborate gifts.
Thanksgiving, especially for big-ticket items. If you wait too long, inventory will be depleted, which will make it harder to stick to your budget. You want to avoid buying something out of sheer desperation. However, it is possible to plan too far ahead. For example, don’t be tempted to load up on gifts at the after-Christmas sales. By next Christmas, most of them will be forgotten, out of date, or unsuitable.
2. Plan Ahead
You don’t need to brave the crowds on Black Friday just to save a few bucks. While there are many deals to be found on that day, you may be better off waiting until December to buy
It takes time to develop a shopping strategy. Many successful shoppers start looking long before
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COMMUNITY some items. Toys and electronics in particular are more deeply discounted in December. Don’t delay if you are looking for a certain item or specific brand, or if you know quantities are limited. Use your list to plan your shopping strategy. You may want to plan to hit the stores on one day and do your online shopping on another.
4. Take Advantage of Rewards
Not everything you buy will be on sale, but you can still save money if you have a strategy to maximize rewards and cash back on your purchases. There is nothing wrong with using a credit card for your shopping as long as you stick to your budget. If you have multiple cards, choose the one that offers the highest reward for that particular store or item. Using 3. Take Advantage of the this strategy requires some Internet discipline. If you can’t pay the bill in January, any rewards Cyber Monday, or the Monday you may get will be erased by after Thanksgiving, has become interest charges. as well-known as Black Friday. Large online retailers typically offer special deals on that day. 5. Don’t Go Overboard Because these deals are often on a time limit, getting a good price Buying for children has a on an item you want can take reputation for putting many a lot of time, persistence, and wallets at risk. Kids are luck. A much better strategy is notorious for presenting a long to sign up for email alerts. You wish list, but you shouldn’t can even create a special folder feel obligated to indulge their in your inbox for these emails. every desire. Avoid impulse Then, you can look through buying. Instead, put your funds them when it’s convenient for toward a few high quality items you to shop. Nearly all online that you know they’ll use. merchants offer this service, but Sure, kids may be temporarily don’t forget about your favorite thrilled by large numbers of brick and mortar stores. Deep gifts, but a few really useful or discounts are often available special items will be enjoyed exclusively to those on the for much longer. If you want mailing list. quality, be prepared to pay for it. Stores don’t give away items
that they can sell for full price, so most of the so-called “door busters” are products of inferior quality or obscure brands that the store couldn’t sell any other way. Don’t be tempted to buy something that isn’t on your list simply because it’s on sale! Christmas can cause a lot of anxiety for those who must be conscious of their budgets. With careful planning, judicious use of rewards cards, and adequate discipline, however, shopping on a budget doesn’t need to be a negative experience. Remember to buy only what’s on your list, plan ahead to hit the sales, and maximize your cash back. Sticking to a responsible budget will prevent stress and bring satisfaction that will stay with you long after all the gifts are opened.
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COMMUNITY
Johnny Depp is Tonto? by Susan Gallaway Johnny Depp will step out in yet another avatar that is far removed from what you expect of conventional heroes in movies. He will portray the role of Tonto in the forthcoming Gore Verbinski version of The Lone Ranger. Ever since the first glimpses and trailer of the movie became public there has been significant dissection on Johnny DeppÕ s portrayal of the Native American legend.
Johnny DeppÕ s entry in the trailer is marked by him saying Ô There come a time kemo sabe, when good men must wear masksÕ and you then see him hanging to the underbelly of the train in what can only be a death defying act.
One of the first reasons Johnny Depp has come under fire in this role is for his portrayal of the character Ð his make-up is an exaggerated extension of a The trailer opens up with a shot Marilyn Manson on stage and of a train shooting past on a the dead bird on his head does railway track and the voice over not go down well with many on reiterating how the horse is no the count of authenticity. There longer the fastest means of travel. is also a great deal of chatter on 26
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his suitability for the role. After all, there are several Native Americans who would have fit in these shoes much better. Johnny Depp has always spoken of his Native American heritage, though he is unsure of whether his grandmother was Cherokee or Creek. (pick one Johnny) It is felt that Johnny Depp may not be appropriately portraying the Native AmericanÕ nessÕ of Tonto as should be. His look seems to be dictated more by his penchant to do so something that is different than by being informative and accurate.
COMMUNITY Why Johnny Depp has been cast in a Native American role, when there are so many who can fill these shoes can be debated awhile, but what remains a fact is that there is no one who can bring in the Johnny Depp style of portrayal to the role. If his roles in Edward Scissorhands, The Pirates franchise and Sweeny Todd are anything to go by, this is going to be a Tonto who is much different from the earlier versions we have seen. Does that make it right? Well, that is part of the big debate. Johnny Depp is one of the worlds biggest box office draws so itÕ s easy to see why any movie maker would cast him as anyone in anything, even if it doesnÕ t make much sense. Thanks to his portrayal of this role, Johnny Depp has now been adopted by the Comanche nation as an honorary son. In essence, this adoption has given him the freedom to work the role the way he would like to with the blessing of the group. Despite several misgivings about his look, the organization still went ahead and accepted him into the fold. They believe that there will be no issues with JohnnyÕ s portrayal of Tonto. In fact, his role is basically to be by the side of the Lone Ranger and narrate his story. This can only mean that a Ô Native AmericanÕ inadvertently plays the hero in
this movie as well as the brains. The Lone Ranger in essence is a side-kick being told what to do and how to do it right.
Johnny Depp is working on this role at a time when his goodwill is much lower than usual. Taking on a so-far racist role and depicting it in the right manner Despite members of the will be high on the agenda for Native American community him. being given reassurances on the correct treatment of their The desire is for him to portray culture, the worry stems the role, Ò InjunÓ accent and from the way the legendary all in a manner that does not character of Tonto has been come off as being a cartoon dressed up. The significance of character but rather someone Ò death metalÓ like war paint who has dignity and is not and that dead bird seems to be representative of the constant misleading. joke that the Native American community tends to become in The face paint, Johnny Depp such portrayals is going to be a feels is more like segmenting a challenge. personÕ s face into various parts of his character Ð one section The Lone Ranger will be by for wisdom, one for the pain far one of the most expensive you suffer, another for anger movies released next year, and and one for understanding. it will undergo a lot of scrutiny. The getup is an influence from In the end nothing new is really a contemporary painter by the being played out here. Another name of Kirby Sattler. Native American acting role is going to a non-Native The dead bird it has been American actor. (Okay, there is revealed is more representative some argument here that he is of the Native American totems, partially Native) the bird being the significant one here. Crows are said to stand I guess we will see what the for justice and partnership, community thinks once the which is a way of depicting the movie is released. Once thing relationship between the Lone is for sure, if it’s a box office Ranger and Tonto. Vultures are success IÕ m sure we will see representative of the dawn of Johnny dig up the dead bird for a new day, and Tonto makes another go round. an appearance to save Long Ranger from an ambush. This is where he is influenced to take on the masked character.
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S ’ T I
! E LEGENDS R E H
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BEATS
Turn up the Volume By Katty Jo Rabbit
Holidays Rule Various Artists Nothing beats hearing your favorite artists put their own spin on Christmas hits, and this particular album does just that. With great tracks to check out like (EveryoneÕ s waitinÕ for) The man with the bag, by Black Prairie Feat Sallie Ford, and Blue Christmas by the Heartless Bastards, there is something for everyone. There is even a really slutty version of ThatÕ s what I want for Christmas by Holly Golightly. Which is really fun to listen too, because who knew that you could sexualized a song like that, poor baby Jesus, he is most likely looking down on us with pity in his eyes. All kidding aside, this album is definitely going into some stockings, especially for the particular music snob/hipster in the family, who has all the gadgets, and is really hard to buy for. With Paul McCartney and FUN adding to this 17 track there are a few dull moments especially for those Christmas songs that get played out by November 30. It gets hard to ignore the plain fact that some songs really shouldnÕ t have been added to the track list in the first place, but even Santa misses some of the naughty kids on the nice list. So you have to take the good with the bad, but if youÕ re a fan of the Civil Wars, The shins, Fruit Bats, Y La Bamba, and the Head and the Heart then you should really have a listen. From Jazzy beats, to indie rocker interpretations, throwing an ugly Christmas sweater party will be cooler than most if you play this cd because itÕ s really about how much cheer you share at Christmas and not about how cool you are.
Jake Bugg ‘Jake Bugg’ Ever meet a person whom you thought you had absolutely nothing in common with just by the look of them? Only to discover that they were the coolest, wittiest person you had met since, well never? This album is kind of like that. When you first encounter the music of this 18 year-old skinny bloke from the rough streets of Nottingham; you would think the almost gritty country twang was not for you, but you would be mistaken because if you just hung around for a little bit longer you would discover a common denominator. With songs like Lightning bolt and, Someone told me, there is a soulful existence that comes through in his voice that makes you think he has more life experience then he actually does, you have to remember that he wrote this music on his own, entirely on his own is another question to be asked, but in its entirety there is definitely a cohesiveness of youthful abandon and recklessness that reminds you of the good ole days. So the maturity of his music is surprisingly universal in the fact that he is reminiscent of Dylan but still has the ability to remain his own entity. Overall the music itself has to be appreciated for the fact that it is not Justin Beiber, nor is it One Direction, not that there is anything wrong with that. It is just the fact that he is so young and is just a boy with a guitar and a dream. This is the stuff that full body length posters are made of.
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BEATS
Music You Can Feel In Your Toes Tegan and Sara Heart Throb It will be three years since the girls have put anything out on the airwaves, and with their last album Sainthood being about emotional and romantic obsession hopefully this next release will be a little more mature. Please give us something to survive on. With the first single being Closer, it seems that the twins have taken a bit of a twist on their usually acoustic and grass roots sounds. With it being a polished up their sound and wrapped it in an electronic blanket, making the first few songs leaked, to sound like something from this time frame. Which is a nice little change for the better; twelve tracks in total, two being bonus tracks it will be nice to hear what they have to say. Most of the times it has been said that the sisters donÕ t get along that well and usually write songs on their own, but as of late they have been able to make music together. With lyrics that read Ò ItÕ s not just all physical/IÕ m the type who will get oh so critical/ So letÕ s make things physical/I wonÕ t treat you like youÕ re oh so typicalÓ You know for sure the girls haven’t strayed far from what they know. This is most definitely a tested, tried and true tactic, but sometimes the general population that isnÕ t obsessed needs something a little bit more. It would be awesome if they grew some lady balls and started singing about Chief and council elections but the likelyness of that ever happening is probably on the same line as them opening for Justin Beiber. Either way watch for this album January 29,2013.
Guided by Voices The Bears for Lunch There is something a little disturbing about this album in a whole, and not being sure what that is, take a listen for yourself and if you notice anything a little off kilter then youÕ re one of many that feel the same way. This little observation affects the entire experience as you listen to this and realize there could be a possible hidden agenda when it comes to the cover art, the title of some songs, like Hangover Child, Skin to skin combat, and Waking up the stars. But we will never know, and it is always up for open interpretation, that is how most of the TreatyÕ s were signed. Or this could just be another one of those crazy self induced myths like cameras hidden in the vents, or rather the ending of the world as we know it come December 21st. Anyways, seemingly so this band is used to churning them out with two new releases just spun this past year GbV really need to figure out where they want to go and make it last longer than two minutes. Makes the entire experience a little more meaningful, people wanna stick around in the morning when they know it was heartfelt. One good tune to check out if youÕ re so compelled to would be Amorphous Sunrise it is a good example of what open interpretation means. But if you are familiar which most people arenÕ t then youÕ re one of many who agree that GbV is only for people with an acquired taste. NEW TRIBE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012/13
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MOVIES
See You at the Movies Starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner This grande finally gives everything and nothing in this thankfully last performance of the vampire sagas. The story that has drawn so many to the vampire and werewolf movement is delightfully over. The birth of EdwardÕ s and BellaÕ s baby, Renesmee, brings the Volturi down on them. According to ancient law a child turned immortal is not allowed. The Volturi suspect that Renesmee was turned vampire after her birth, which was not the case. The evil Volturi feel it is their duty to the coven to destroy Renesmee. The werewolves, led by Jacob, team up with the Cullen family, and some rather bazaar international vampires to save Renesmee. The plot gets worse as Jacob somehow imprints Renesmee into being his future love, though she is just a baby. The whole immortal part makes it perfectly acceptable for a grown werewolf to be in love with a little girl vampire. While it is easy to see how so many can be, pardon the term, sucked into this love twisted saga, it is hard to comprehend two different species being futuristic lovers.
The make out scene is rather hot, and the violence is way past PG, with children being killed and be-headings galore. A little bit of something for everyone will have the masses drawn to the final epic battle. The snow field battle between the Cullin family and friends against the Volturi will give those looking for blood what they seek. There is plenty of excitement as Edward and friends protect their vampire baby, Renesmee, who grows at an alarming rate considering she will live forever. Once all is done, and Renesmee is safe we realize that it was all a mind meld deal between Alice and Aro. The battle never happened, and this could be so confusing if one has not read the books to understand what just happened. The movie sticks to Stephanie MeyerÕ s story very closely until then, and director, Bill Condon, made a very trendy movie that will have Twilight enthusiast crying when itÕ s over.
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See You at the Movies
MOV IES
Starring Hugh Jackman, Alec Baldwin, Isla Fisher
For those who love movies during the holidays this one is sure to please. Rise of the Guardians is a wonderfully appropriate movie for all ages. The animated epic wonder is packed with star studded voices. The heroes enlist on a journey to save the innocence of children around the world. None of these childhood characters are what we remember. Santa is a tattooed Russian who is not the jolly Saint Nick of old, but North. Jack Frost(Chris Pine), reminds us that teenagers can do amazing things when push comes to shove. These heroes each have an extraordinary ability that helps defend the world against an evil character named Pitch(Jude Law), who is out to take over the world with fear. Jack teams up with the Easter Bunny(Hugh Jackman), the Tooth Fairy(Isla Fisher), North(Alec Baldwin), and the Sandman, to save childrenÕ s innocence. This very entertaining movie has something for everyone. The exciting tale, and spectacular animation, will keep everyone on the edge of their seat. At first Jack Frost is not known by the children. They only have heard the parents speak of him and do not realize that he is the cause of all their childhood snow days. It takes a journey of epic proportions for the heroes to band together and restore the belief the children have for each of them. It seems that Pitch will rule the world and all will go dark except for the faith of one childÕ s belief. When all seems lost, and even Jack falls victim to Pitch’s evilness, the faith of one child saves the day. Jack finds his purpose, and through his journey to remember his past, innocence and joy are restored to the children of the world. Pitch is dragged to a fearful place of darkness by the nightmares portrayed by daunting dark horses, and childhood innocence is brought back into existence through the power of the Guardians united. It proves that faith can move mountains, and destroy the things we fear the most. Jack is then deemed a true Guardian which leaves everyone with a great feeling of hope.
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LITERA LLY
Book Reviews For the restless mind Struck by Lighting by Chris Colfer Struck by Lighting by Chris Colfer is one of the funniest books I have read in a long time. It is incredibility witty and it also has a really dark sensibility to it. The book is all about an ambitious high school student who starts to blackmail the most popular kid in school. It sounds really bleak but it is actually quite hilarious. Anybody who remembers the dramas of their school days can recognize the absurd situations that the characters in the book get into. I also found the book incredibly inspirational. The main character is such a weirdo and an outcast at school but throughout the book he begins to learn his way in the world. I think it really shows how acceptance is such an important social value. I loved the way Carson, the main character in the book came across. He was definitely not portrayed as a perfect person and wasnÕ t very nice a lot of the time. He felt a lot like a real person however. When I was reading the book, I could usually identify with how he was behaving and why. I recognized a lot of my good qualities in and a lot of my bad qualities as well. This really allowed me to become involved in the book. The book deals with a lot of serious topics but it does so in such a humorous way. I thought a lot of the biting sense of humor and sarcasm displayed by many of the characters in the book was a great way to deal with these topics. One character is suffering from dementia while another experiences the negative effects of alcohol abuse. CarsonÕ s quick snarks really depict how a young man in his position would deal with these issues the only way he knows how. In the beginning of the novel, Carson is really shown to be an unhappy and very stressed out person. At first he tries to use his classmates to help him get into the college of his dreams. By the end, Carson realizes who his friends really are.
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LITERALLY
Book Reviews For the restless mind
The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie is one of the most interesting novels that I have read in a long time. The book is really funny but is also has a dark side to it. The book is actually a bunch of short stories and they are all interesting. They are all really warm and heartfelt and always very funny. Some of the stories have sad elements to them. Much of the book takes place on an Indian Reservation and a lot of the residents are really suffering from extreme poverty and alcoholism. However, the book doesnÕ t dwell on those topics. It depicts how people deal with them and rise above. I really appreciated how the short stories of the book were format. Alexis wrotes about a lot of serious matters and I felt that the format of the book allowed for a break in between the intensity of the plotlines. One of biggest problems that current Native American populations face is struggling with high rates of alcoholism. There are a lot of stories in The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight that confront this issue and I really appreciated the thoughtful and nuanced take the author used. I liked the way the author really confronted a lot of serious issues with love towards the people depicted in his book. I always felt like I was reading about real people with all their ups and downs. I think it takes a really talented writer to depict a characterÕ s negative traits and still make up feel a lot of sympathy for them. You really do feel for these characters. They seem to jump off the page and are so realistic. Sherman Alexie writes in a very simple, straightforward style. He doesn’t’ use flowery language but his writing is beautiful and rich. You feel as if you are on the reservation where all these things are happening. So much of life is full of triumph and sorrow and Sherman AlexieÕ s world shows that. The characters in his book experience so much joy and sorrow.
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usayeditor@gmail.com
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U AROUND TOWN
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