Verb Issue R22 (April 5-12, 2012)

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Apr 5–12, 2012 • Pass it on

Verb STC Ups Fares

Company Charges More To Stay Competitive P3

Whitehorse

Canadian Duo Talks Marriage, Music P11

American Reunion Raunchy Comedy Reinvigorates Franchise P15

Super Treehouse Indie Five-Piece Breaks Boundaries P9

World’s Biggest Boasts Basketball Court P7

Photo: courtesy of Justin Broadbent

Section Local Page 2

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Page PH

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Elizabeth Fry To Suspend Services In City

Society To Temporarily Defer Some Programming Due To Financial Difficulties Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — A local agency that provides aid to women charged with or convicted of a crime has announced that most services will be temporarily suspended, a move brought on by financial difficulties and the expectation of increased demand following the introduction of a new federal crime bill.

The Elizabeth Fry Society provides support and services to women in trouble with the law.

Open since 1981, the Saskatchewan chapter of the society works with women before, during and

after their time in prison. Almost “We’re perilously close,” she all programming will cease April adds. “We’re playing with not much 30th, thought one program aimed money at this point.” at family literacy will continue to Board member Sharon Acoose operate. The agency hopes to be agrees. operational again in the fall.

“The biggest concern is fund“[W]e are not in debt yet, but if ing,” states Acoose. “We need to we had continued find … funding any further we “We’re perilously close. that will enable us would be going We’re playing with not to hire an execuinto debt,” says much money…” tive director and board member get the program-Ailsa Watkinson ming back up. We Ailsa Watkinson.

“The amount of money we have have money enough until the end combined in the bank is going of April.” down. In order to make sure we The list of programs facing susdidn’t go into debt, we had to stop pension includes Strong Sisters, [providing services].” which offers legal resources to women at Pine Grove Correctional Centre, and Healthy Connections, a program promoting healthy, active lifestyle choices for female inmates at the Regional Psychiatric Centre.

The organization also distributes toiletries to inmates and runs a program designed to assist aboriginal women reintegrate into society.

According to Watkinson, the Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan is funded entirely through grants. A list of funders on the society’s website includes the United Way, the City of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Lotteries and Urban Aboriginal Strategy.

Watkinson attributes the agency’s financial trouble in part to difficulties the organization has faced staffing administrative positions.

“What it was, was the oversight of making sure grants were being put in at the right time,” she explains.

The society is currently without an executive director; phone calls to the executive director’s direct line revealed that the position “is on temporary hiatus.”

Acoose and Watkinson expect the society’s problems to be compounded in the coming months by a controversial federal bill. A news release published by the society suggests that “an anticipated increase in demand on its services with the passage of Bill C-10” was part of the motivation for the proposed restructuring.

The Elizabeth Fry Society opposes Bill C-10. In November 2011 Board Chair Nancy Poon, who declined interview requests, wrote an open letter to the government in which she described the bill as “punitive.” The agency also offers postcards addressing the bill.

Bill C-10 overhauls the pardon system, restricts some conditional sentences, and mandates mandatory minimum sentences for certain sexual and drug-related offences.

Acoose says that under C-10, “[t]here [will be] a larger number of women involved in the criminal justice system because of mandatory minimum sentences, and there will be a larger number of women incarcerated and fewer options available for conditional sentences … that’s going to make it harder.”

According to Justice Minister Don Morgan, the provincial government will not speculate as to the possible impact of the bill. He told Hansard that at present the government cannot accurately assess or determine what effects Bill C-10 will have.

“We do not know what the impact is going to be. We do not know what the courts are going to decide.

We do not know how charges are going to be laid. We do not know what matters will be dealt away by way of alternate plea bargains. And we are not going to engage in wild speculation,” he said.

“We will wait and we will see and we will make an accurate, fair, reasoned determination.”

For now Watkinson, who has been on the board for 20 years, is optimistic, noting that the society has rallied to find solutions.

“We have a plan of action for the next couple of months [and] we have no intent whatsoever of letting this organization die,” she declares.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Local Page 3

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Page PH

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STC Ups Fares, Aims To Stay Competitive

Company Charges More For Tickets, Still Below Western Canadian Average Alex J macPherson

Grice, STC CEO, said in a news release. regina, SK — The Saskatch“STC fares are affordable and ewan Transportation Company comparable to average rates in has raised its average fare to Western Canada, and we believe keep pace with its competitors. that people who try our service Saskatchewan Transportation once are very likely to become reCompany (STC) — a provincial peat riders due to the enjoyment crown corporaof their travel extion — increased “[W]e believe that people perience.” its ticket prices by who try our service once Deanna Bergan average of 4.76 are very likely to become busch, STC expercent, or $1.45 ecutive director for a 117-mile repeat riders…” of planning and -Shawn Grice communication, one-way trip.

Bus companies across North attributes the increase to fluctuaAmerica use miles as a standard tions in the market, competition measure of distance; 117 miles is and increased costs.

188.3 kilometres. The average fare “We want to keep pace with the over that distance now comes in western Canadian average [price], around $31.85. but we want to be below it,” she “The increase reflects the need explains. for STC to recoup some of its in“We don’t want to be the highcreased costs and at the same time est [cost] provider in the market.” deliver on the company’s mandate Bergbusch says STC was operto serve Saskatchewan,” Shawn ating at three percent below the

Western Canadian average price in late 2010 and early 2011. Earlier this year Greyhound, the company’s closest competitor, raised its prices, driving STC’s fares further below the average. “[O]n our balanced scorecard we have a target to stay within one to four percent below the western Canadian average,” she states.

“With this increase we put ourselves still within three percent.”

STC last adjusted its prices in March 2010. The company also made changes in July 2008.

But a two-year increase cycle is not a rule, according to Bergbusch. Any jumps in ticket price, which must be approved by the Highway Traffic Board, are based on the market, competitors’ prices and inflation.

Under the new metric, a oneway trip between Saskatoon and Regina costs $42.25 for adults; the same trip runs $38.05 for students

and $21.15 for children under 11.

Bergbusch doesn’t think the increase will affect ridership, which she points out increased 7.4 percent between 2010 and 2011.

Every age group uses the service, she explains, with riders between 40 and 59 forming the largest segment at 25 percent. People between 18 and 25 comprise 21.7 percent of the company’s ridership.

Bergbusch believes that the biggest draw are the amenities. STC offers WiFi in about 75 percent of its coaches; by 2012, every STC bus will have wireless internet.

“It’s the convenience,” she says.

“If you’re a person traveling between Saskatoon and Regina and choose to take the bus, you can get some of your work done [or] you can entertain yourself, versus if you’re tired and trying to concentrate.”

“From a safety, convenience, worry-free travel [perspective], it’s

a very attractive option to a lot of customers,” she adds.

Victoria Martinez, who studies physics at the University of Saskatchewan and frequently travels between Saskatoon and her home in Lloydminster, would prefer to take the bus but is frustrated by the price of tickets.

“It costs me about $80 to get to Lloydminster and back [on the bus],” she says.

“If I drive instead, it takes about half a tank of gas to go there and back, which is maybe $40, total. It’s really frustrating to pay that much more for a much less comfortable ride.”

“If the prices go up, my hands are still tied. If I have to go home, and there’s no other way to get there, then the bus it is,” she continues.

“It’s too bad, because theoretically I’d love to take the bus more often.”

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Global

Page 4Page PH

Apr 5–12,PH ‘12PH–PH, ‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Junk Food Gives You The Blues Adam Hawboldt

They were also more likely to be less active and smoke cigarettes. granada, spain — Fast food “Even eating small quantities can give you the blues, new re- is linked to a significantly higher search has found. chance of de Scientists at “[E]ating small quantities v e l o p i n g d e the universities is linked to…depression.” pression,” lead of Las Palmas and researcher Dr. Al-Dr. Almudena Sánchez-Villegas mudena SánchezGranada in Spain found that people who frequently Villegas tells Medical Express. ate hamburgers and pizza were Researchers studied nearly 51 percent likelier to develop de- 9,000 participants over a six-month pression than their healthier eating span. peers.

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Facebook’s Heavy Issues Social Media Triggers Desire To Be Thinner Adam Hawboldt

baltimore, md — Does Facebook make you feel fat?

If so, you’re not alone.

And we’re not talking about the extra pounds you may (or may not) put on while your posterior is parked in front of the computer.

What researchers at the Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt in Maryland have determined is that Facebook is adding fuel to the fire of our society’s desire to be skinny.

It’s true: more than half the 600 people surveyed (ages 16 to 40) say

“A common reaction [to Facebook] is, ‘I need to be thinner.’”

-Steven Crawford that Facebook makes them more self-conscious about their bodies, and in particular, their weight.

And while more women than men admitted they want to lose a few pounds (to the tune of 75 percent compared to 58 percent), men were more vocal in posting negative comments about their own bodies.

“People are now constantly

aware of their appearance, thanks to Facebook,” Steven Crawford,

associate director at the centre, explains to TechNewsDaily.

“A common reaction is, ‘I need to be thinner.’ And it’s that kind of thinking that can lead to hazardous dieting.”

In fact, Crawford went one step further by saying Facebook “is an influential factor in developing severe eating disorders.”

The reasoning works something like this: when you’re unhappy with how you look, it’s easy to avoid mirrors.

But if you’re hooked on Facebook, it’s hard to avoid pictures of yourself, and can lead some to take dramatic actions.

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Global At A Glance health tattoos — Scientists have developed a skin patch that can monitor your heart and brain functions. It also has wireless capabilities, which could be used to transmit data to the subject’s cellphone and then on to his or her doctor. The patch is a mega-thin layer of electronics applied to the skin.

The patches apply like a press-on tattoo, and once in place can’t be felt by the wearer. Feedback? Text it to 306881-8372.

Section Global

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Apr 5–12,PH ‘12PH–PH, ‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Global At A Glance leaping robot — The American

military has, in conjunction with engineering company Boston Dynamics, developed a five-kilogram robot that

Dogs Lessen Work Stress Pooches On The Job Better For You, Coworkers Adam Hawboldt

Richmond, VA — Not only are dogs loyal, steadfast companions, but apparently they’re also pretty darn good at reducing your stress levels, too— especially if you take them to work.

In a study conducted at Virginia Commonwealth University, researchers found that taking your dog to your place of employment can decrease your stress level while increasing levels of job satisfaction

in your co-workers. in Greensboro, North Carolina.

“Dogs in the workplace can Researchers compared individumake a positive difference,” says als who took pets to work, who had head researcher pets but left them Randolph T. Bark- “The differences in at home, and who er. perceived stress … were did not have any “The differenc- significant.” pets. es in perceived Using surveys -Randolph T. Barker and saliva samstress between days the dog was present and ab- ples to determine stress levels, resent were significant.” searchers determined that, during This first-of-its-kind finding the course of a work day, dogs lifted studied 75 employees at a dog- morale and lessened stress. friendly manufacturing company Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Looking On Past With Bitterness Bad For Health Adam Hawboldt

Granada, Spain — The British rockers Oasis may have had it right all along with their song “Don’t Look Back In Anger.”

Researchers at the University of Granada in Spain have found that looking back on your past with bitterness or regret is bad for your

health.

“We have observed that when people are negative about past events in their life, they also have a pessimist or fatalistic attitude towards current events,” says Cristián Oyanadel, who coauthored the study. “[T]hese people present worse quality of life indicators.”

Researchers analyzed 25 men and 25 women between the ages of 20 and 70, asking them about their past and future, as well as their physical health and quality of life in general.

“Furthermore, they generally tend to be depressive [and] anxious,” adds Oyanadel.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

can leap great heights. Called the Sand Flea, the robot can leap up to 30 feet when confronted with a vertical obstacle. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Feature

Page 6

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Majestics Car Show Celebrates The Auto

Annual Event Welcomes Travelling Enthusiasts, Promises Many New Rides Sebastian Dangerfield

Regina, SK — The timeline for hot rods and custom cars extends back to the days before World War II, to a time when needfor-speed teens in California hopped-up, chopped down and streamlined their Ford Model T’s for racing purposes.

That was in the late 1920’s.

The hot rod/custom car phenomenon spread from California throughout America, spilled over into Canada and, in 1962, finally found a permanent home in Regina with the formation of the Majestics Car Club.

Founded by local high school in scope, but the Majestics Annual kids, the club grew and grew. And Rod and Custom Car Show has also five years later, they put on their managed to stay fresh. first Rod and Custom Car Show.

In fact, each year more than Now in its fifth decade, the event 75 percent of the cars — whether has grown by leaps and bounds they be hot rods, custom cars, since its inauguclassics, race cars, ral showing at the “People who like cars … antiques, motorGrain Show Build- realize these classic cars cycles and more ing in 1967. Back are beautiful…”

— are new to the then, the club had show.

-Chris Shultz 20 or 30 entries; “Yeah, we althese days that number has ex- ways have a lot of new cars,” states panded significantly.

Schultz. “We have cars from the “We now have about 200 entries United States, Western Canada. One every year,” says Chris Shultz, trea- year we even had a fella drive down surer of the club. from Alaska.” Regardless of where Not only has the event grown they originated from, upon arrival the cars are placed in one spot — this year it’s Regina’s Canada Centre Building — and put on display for the public’s pleasure.

“People who like cars like coming to shows,” explains Schultz.

“They realize these classic cars are beautiful and should be preserved.”

But it’s not all about preservation and public pleasure. The show is also a competitive event in which the cars, divided by class and year, are judged in separate categories.

Some of the categories include best paint, best engine compartment, best interior and best engineered.

And with more than $8,000 in trophies and cash prizes available to be won, the event always promises to be competitive, fun and entertaining.

On a completely different note, but sticking with the cash concept, the Majestics Car Club doesn’t keep everything earned from the car show.

Photo: courtesy of Majestics Car Club

Instead, they give part of the proceeds to local charities and community organizations.

“We’ve always been communityoriented. We’ve always given back.

So we have a mandate to give away a certain amount of what we make,” says Schultz.

“What we’re doing this year, and have done in the past couple of years, is donate our proceeds to KidSport. We decided to put all

our eggs in one basket and see if we can help.”

The Annual Majestics Rod and Custom Car Show will be held at Evraz Place, April 14th and April 15th.

Admission at the door is $10, free to kids 12 years old and under.

Advance tickets can be purchased for $8 at Best Buy Auto Parts, CWS Tuning, Novus Auto Glass and Re-Appliable Parts Inc. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Offbeat

Page 7

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Put Your Tweets On Roll Of TP

Gillespie tells VentureBeat.

“We all have other jobs, though new york, ny — Chances are would obviously like to make it a you’ve heard of Twitter. But have full-time thing …The direction is you heard of Sh*tter? still settling, but I think there’s some With the tagline, “Social media kind of course to chart around just has never been so disposable,” trying to entertain people," GilSh*tter is a service that will take lespie continues. feeds from your "I don’t know Twitter account “It's two-ply. Kind of where the revand turn them standard toilet paper enue is, it may into toilet paper. there, nothing funky very well wind All you have up needing to be to do is log onto going on.” funded by brands -David Gillespie when the right Twitter, set up an order, and for $35 you get four rolls project comes along. I can’t imagof the customized crap wad. ine Kleenex having put their name The concept for Sh*tter is cred- to Sh*tter though!” ited to a team of four developers The Sh*tter has quickly become who live in New York and Sydney, an Internet sensation, so if you end Australia. up with a roll or four, don't worry One member of that team is about the quality.

David Gillespie.

"It's two-ply," Gillespie tells the “Obviously this is fairly tongue- Huffington Post. in-cheek, but we’re reasonably "Kind of standard toilet paper pleased we monetized Twitter in there, nothing funky going on." a way that avoided advertising,” Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Adam Hawboldt

Picnic Pants Snack-Ready

Modified Jeans Let You Eat Off Of Your Lap Adam Hawboldt

pants are exactly what they sound like — a pair of jeans that double Rome, Italy — There have as a picnic table. been some pretty bad fashion And yes, they’re every bit as trends in the past: gold lame lei- silly as you imagine. The pants are sure suits, Crocs, constructed with platform sneak- “Pic Nic pants … are both a piece of fabric ers. a crotch plate and a beer over the groin A n d p r e t t y holder…” big enough to soon, if the fashspread out like a -Adam Hawboldt table when you ion gods are in a spiteful mood, we may be adding sit down cross-legged, allowing Pic Nic pants to that list. the wearer to dine off their crotch.

Designed by an Italian fashion Sound preposterous? Let the company called Acquacalda, Pic Nic Acquacalda website explain the

finer details for you: “Pic Nic pants take advantage of the usual crosslegged position to become a comfortable surface useful for the consumption of a meal outdoors.

Laterally pants have an orientable pocket for drinks.”

That's right: Pic Nic pants (which, by the way, look remarkably similar to Hammer pants of the late-80’s) are both a crotch plate and a beer holder at the same time, bringing the convenience of dining to you no matter where you are.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Treehouse Boasts Basketball Court, Balconies Adam Hawboldt

crossville, tn — When God tells you to do something, you damn well do it.

Horace Burgess spent 11 years constructing a 10,000-square foot, 10-storey tall treehouse after the Lord gave him a message.

“I was praying one day,” says Burgess, who hails from Crossville Tennessee, “and the Lord said, ‘If you build me a treehouse, I’ll see

you never run out of material.’” keeps watch over it.”

So Burgess did what he was told.

The structure, which cost less Held together with more than than $15,000 to make (thanks to a quarter million Burgess’ use of nails, the tree- “You can’t … appreciate recycled materihouse boasts a the scale until you are als), was photospiral staircase, standing next to it.” graphed by Tom balconies, a halfWhetton.

-Tom Whetton ton chime, walk“You can’t reways and pews. Heck, it even has ally appreciate the scale until you a third-floor basketball court. are standing next to it,” explains “I built it for everybody,” says Whetton.

Burgess. “It’s God’s treehouse. He Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Offbeat At A Glance man shoots own leg — A man is recovering from non-life threatening injuries after he accidentally shot himself in the leg — as he was exiting a gun show. William Penfield, 25, is the second

person to accidentally discharge a firearm into his limb at the show; earlier this year Charles Lake injured himself in the same way. Both men are doing okay. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Music

Page 8

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com toes tapping and dance floors packed.

The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD. Sarah Beth Keeley — A sweetsinging, ass-kicking country rocker from Calgary, Keeley has played festivals from Craven to Penticton, and shared the stage with country stars such as Doc Walker, Ronnie Dunn, Rascall Flatts and more. 10pm, Whiskey Saloon, $10 cover.

Sunday 8

(Next Week) ELIZABETH SHEPHERD TRIO @ ARTESIAN on 13th —This Juno

award-nominated trio from Toronto is nothing short of spectacular. Fronted

by Elizabeth Shepherd, along with Scott Kemper and Colin Kingsmore, the Elizabeth Shepherd Trio plays a smart, sexy blend of jazz with pop sensibilities.

Thursday 5

Black Thunder, Hacienda — Black Thunder, a hard-rocking local trio, will perform along with Hacienda at the launch party for Gunderson, a new Saskatchewan-created web series. Watch the trailer online at www.gunderson.tv.

8pm, The Exchange. Tickets $10.

Wildfire — Fronted by Melissa Mannett, this local cover band plays everything from country classics to modern rock hits. 9pm, The Pump Roadhouse.

Tickets TBD.

Friday 6

PropaTingz — Did dubstep? Well PropaTingz (aka Anthony Traynor) is responsible for some of the hottest dubstep out there. Known around the globe, this DJ from the UK has a cutting-edge style, a thunderous and uncompromising sound, and comes in exceedingly high demand. 8pm, The Exchange. Tickets $20 at the door.

DJ Pat & DJ Kim — Local DJs spin top-40 hits every Friday night that are sure to get you on the dance floor.

9pm, Habano’s Martini & Cocktail Club. $5 at the door.

Alain Lalonde — Come check out this dope local DJ/producer as he does his thing and spins the kind of sound that’ll make you wanna dance. 7pm, The Hookah Lounge. No cover.

Wonderland — Come join this local tribute band for a visually stimulating and energetic show as they play one-hit wonders from the ‘60s to the present.

10pm, McNally’s Tavern. $5 at the door.

Wildfire — Fronted by local songstress Melissa Mannett, this country/ rock cover band plays songs that get toes tapping and dance floors packed . The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD. Sarah Beth Keeley — A sweetsinging, ass-kicking country rocker from Calgary, Keeley has played festivals from Craven to Penticton, and shared the stage with country stars such as Doc Walker, Ronnie Dunn, Rascall Flatts and

Photo: courtesy of the artist

A constantly innovative act, the trio, with Shepherd at the helm, offers an electric live performance. They’ll be performing at performing at The Artesian on April 15th; tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance, available at Mysteria Gallery. -Adam Hawboldt.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372. more. 10pm, Whiskey Saloon. $10 cover.

Saturday 7

David Hickey — Performing on 15 quartz singing bowls, eight to 10 paiste planet gongs, a vibraphone and a santoor, this Ontario-based artist brings you his “Sounds of the Solar System” show — a soothing, meditative journey through sound and healing. 7pm, The Artesian on 13th. Tickets $20,available at the door or in advance at Mysteria Gallery.

Five Finger Death Punch w/ Soulfly — With a name derived from classic kung-fu films, this heavy metal band from Los Angeles more than lives up to its ass kicking name. As for Soulfly, who incorporate many styles of metal with Brazilian tribal and world music, this Arizona heavy metal outfit is led by former Sepultura frontman Max Cavalera. 6:30pm, Brandt Centre. Tickets $47.50 (ticketmaster.ca).

Oh My Darling — One of the hottest acts on the Canadian roots scene, this all-female four-piece mix prairie roots with bluegrass, Appalachian oldtime, southern twang, folk and more for a sound you simply have to hear to believe. 8:30pm, The Exchange. Tickets $12 at the door.

DJ Noor — Born in Kuwait and exposed to the international club scene at a young age, this talented DJ knows how to rock a crowd. 7pm, Hookah Lounge. Cover $5 Wonderland — Come join this local tribute band for a visually stimulating and energetic show as they play one-hit wonders from the ‘60s to the present.

10pm, McNally’s Tavern. $5 at the door.

Five Finger Death Punch After Party — After you’re done at the Brandt, haul your ass to the Pump to keep the good times rolling. The Pump Roadhouse. Admission is free with a concert ticket or an after party flyer.

Wildfire — Fronted by local songstress Melissa Mannett, this country/ rock cover band plays songs that get

Yelawolf — With a down-home gritty flow and songs that shed some light on the dark parts of the dirty South, this rapper from Alabama (who recently signed with Eminem’s Shady Records) is well on his way to stardom. 8pm, The Distrikt. $41 (ticketedge.ca).

Monday 9

Monday Night Jazz — Featuring The Jazz Band-Its, more than 20 members bring big-band jazz back to the masses. 8pm, Bushwakker Brewing Company. No cover.

Bloody Murder, Prison Violence, Ahna, Barely Legal — Feel like living a bit dangerously? Come on check out these serious, hard-sounding bands. 7pm, The Club. Cover $6.

Colleen Brown — Originally scheduled to play the Artful Dodger, this singer/songwriter from Edmonton will now be performing at the Creative City Centre instead. An emerging star of the folk circuit, Colleen has toured extensively over the past few years, sharing the stage with names like Jakob Dylan, Jim Cuddy, Hawksley Workman and more. 9pm, Creative City Centre.

Tickets $12.

Cancer Bats — If hardcore punk tickles your fancies, then prepared to be tickled silly when this four-piece from Toronto rolls into town. With a raging, in-your-face sound, this band is not to be missed. 8pm, The Exchange. Tickets $20 at the door or $15 in advance, available at ticketedge.ca

Tuesday 10

Photo: courtesy of the artist

(NEXT WEEK) THE LAZY MKS @ THE EXCHANGE — If you’ve ever heard The

name from Soulodre’s grandparent’s cattle brand), oozes a wicked brand of prairie cool. Don’t forget to stop by The Exchange on April 16th and catch their live show when they open for The Wooden Sky. Tickets $13 (ticketedge. ca) -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Halteras — Playing instrumental songs of the ‘60s along with originals, this local band always puts on a good show. 8pm, King’s Head Tavern. No cover.

or in advance at McNally’s Tavern. Net proceeds go to Creative City Centre and Windhover Artists & Events.

Thursday 12

Wonderland — Normally a one-hitwonder cover band, these local legends will be playing all your favourite classic hits and hits of today. The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD.

Lazy MKs, you probably walked away feeling like you had just listened to one of the most interesting bands around.

Consisting of Etienne Soulodre, Tyler Hammer and Chris Prpich, this threepiece from Regina (which cribbed its

Kathleen Edwards — With a bold, seductive voice, titillating lyrics and a tranquil sound that dances adeptly between country and roots, this singer/songwriter from Ottawa puts on a show that will leave you breathless. The lovely Hannah Georgas will be opening.

7:30pm, The Exchange. Tickets $25 at the door or $20 in advance, available online at the Globe Theatre Box Office.

PS Fresh — DJ Ageless started spinning in Montreal, DJ Drewski started in Saskatoon. They both landed in Regina and have come together to sling some bomb beats. 7pm, The Hookah Lounge.

No cover.

Redbeard’s “Caring for Culture” Birthday Bash — Live music featuring The Breakdown, Dangerous Cheese, Val Halla, Us, Suckerpunch Phyllis and perhaps some surprise guests.

8:30 pm, McNally’s Tavern. $5 at the door

Big Dave McLean — One of Canada’s definitive bluesmen, this musician from Yorkton combines his gravelly vocals with masterful guitar playing to put on a show you won’t soon forget. 8pm, Smokin’ Okies BBQ. Cover $5.

Amy Nelson — This up-and-coming local musician has been turning heads on the country music scene in Western Canada. With a sweeping voice and unmistakable stage presence, the sky is the limit for this high school music teacher. 8pm, Whiskey Saloon. Cover $5.

Want your show listed?

Email layout@verbnews.com!

Stef Lang — A Vancouver-based singer/songwriter, Lang’s star has been rising since she dropped her first fulllength commercial album, The Underdog, in 2010. With hit singles like “Mr. Immature” and “Slave2Love,” this wildly talented twentysomething is a name to watch out for. 8pm, The Exchange. Tickets $8 at Vintage Vinyl and Madame Yes. Karaoke Tuesday — Famous live music venue offers its patrons a chance to share the stage. 8pm, McNally’s Tavern. No cover.

Wednesday 11

Wednesday Night Folk: Redbeard’s Birthday Bash — Featuring live music from T.B. Judd, Burns & Maciag, Rye ‘n’ The Vats, and Ink Road.

9pm, Bushwakker Brewing Company.

No cover.

(COMING UP) RONNIE DUNN @ CONEXUS Arts Centre — A celebrated

country singer/songwriter from Texas, Dunn is best known for being one half of the award-winning duo Brooks & Dunn. Following a successful career, the duo disbanded in 2009, and by 2010 Dunn resumed his solo career.

Photo: courtesy of the artist

His self-titled album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums and # 5 on the Billboard 200. Dunn will be bringing his show to town when he plays the Conexus Arts Centre on June 23rd; tickets $47.50–$71.50 (admission. com) -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Arts One

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Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Photos: courtesy of Kim.Jay Photography, Forget The Box and the artist

The Wooden Sky On Breaking Boundaries

Innovative Canadian Indie Rockers Open Up About Redefining Their Sound Meagen Thomas

Regina, SK — On a most travel days Gavin Gardiner, lead singer of Toronto-based rock band The Wooden Sky, reads to kill time.

What Gardiner was reading on February 29th, 2012 as the fivepiece band crossed the Confederation Bridge bound for a pair of gigs in Charlottetown had the entire group smiling.

“The mood is very good. It’s interesting to read and reflect on someone else’s opinion of something you’ve poured yourself into,” says Gardiner.

What they’d poured themselves into was their third LP, Every Child a Daughter, Every Moon a Sun, which had been released the day before, a testament to how these Canadian

indie rockers had grown — both with their 2009 Bilerman-produced physically and figuratively. breakthrough second LP, If I Don’t Spanning three records, sev- Come Home You’ll Know I’m Gone. eral EPs, countless well-received “Howard calls himself a musical tours and dozens of collaborators, midwife; it’s our baby and he brings the group’s development over it to the world but he’s always there the past decade when we need a can be used as a “By constantly working push or a critical measuring stick in and creating, we get ear,” Gardiner the Southern On- better and better.” says. “Every time tario music scene we go through -Gavin Gardiner the process we they’ve helped to curate and sustain. Tireless innova- learn more. By constantly worktors, The Wooden Sky have consis- ing and creating, we get better and tently found new wrinkles within better.” a genre as broad as it is ageless.

They’re also innovators when it Helping them push the envelope comes to promoting and supportfurther and further is their two-time ing their music. producer Howard Bilerman, who Two years ago, they released A has also produced Arcade Fire.

Documentary In Pieces, a 10-part The group’s commitment to video series featuring live perforconsistent reexamination started mances of songs from If I Don’t

Come Home You’ll Know I’m Gone.

To complement the release of Every Child a Daughter, Every Moon a Sun the band is once again taking an idea and turning it on its head.

Although the five-part series is linked together with a narrative thread, they flipped the script, dramatically changing their cinematic approach.

The live performances are the centerpiece while the narrative is the backdrop, rather than the other way around.

‘We wanted to make the promotional material in a creative way and we wanted to recreate the live experience,” explains Gardiner. “And we had access, through Simon’s dad, to this beautiful church too.”

Wrangling the location and namesake of the series, Grace on

The Hill Church in Forest Hills, proved the easiest part of the production.

“It wasn’t without its hiccups.

We got there at 7 PM, started the smoke machine at 8, and shortly were visited by the fire department because we’d set off the smoke alarms,” recalls Gardiner. “Later, a neighbor complained about the noise. We were there until 7 AM the next day; it was an intensely long day but that played into the narrative.”

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Event Info

Wooden Sky

Where: The Club When: April 16, 10pm Cost: $10 (ticketedge.ca)

Jordan Klassen’s Musical Kindness Inspiring

ArtsSect &C

Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — Structure and narrative are two sides of the same coin, and no one is more eager to dabble in these murky waters than Jordan Klassen.

“Basically, I thrive with structure,” Klassen explains. “When I was writ-

“The fact that I have a clean slate … is the most important thing.”

-Jordan Klassen ing it felt like it was the most helpful for me to write to a theme. I chose the concept of seasons. The idea of dying and being reborn was really interesting to me.”

Klassen, who is from Vancouver, recently completed his EP called

Photo: courtesy of Elissa Crowe

Kindness. Part of an ambitious project that proposes to capture the four seasons on tape, Kindness previews a full-length record planned for the fall. Klassen isn’t

sure when he will finish the cycle, but he’s pleased with how his work has shifted and evolved — like the seasons themselves.

“From my standpoint, the most inspiring thing about music is that there are no rules,” he says. “If there were rules it would be dead. The fact that I have a clean slate and can make whatever I want is the most important thing. As an artist, your vulnerability lies in the fact that it’s completely original.”

Next to his earlier offerings, the four-song EP is downright raucous.

Anchored by Klassen’s magnificent double-tracked vocals, Kindness explores the tenets of indie pop without losing sight of the end goal.

The album has structure and it has narrative. Four songs seems short, and in many ways it is, but Klassen has done his work well and his latest venture feels like a vision realized.

But a vision of what? Its creator is reluctant to entertain or even consider talk of label and genre.

“I feel like artists usually have a hard time with labels, with genre,” he allows. “I use a pretty vague term like folk pop. I know it’s in the realm of pop music or indie folk pop.”

He is, on the other hand, ready to talk about how audiences are more willing than ever to accept change.

“I think people are pretty open minded,” he says. “They don’t want to be completely turned around and shocked but they’re open to artists turning around more than ever before.”

“The great thing about music is you can rely on the abstract too,” he explains. “For example, the thaw.

For a lot of people it’s seen as a really joyful time. But for me the thaw is very messy — lots of rain, floods, snow, really muddy.”

Although his self-confessed emotional winter may not have thawed completely, summer is on the horizon for Jordan Klassen.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Lead vocalist Raine Maida, along with Steve Mazur, Jeremy Taggart an

Five Questions:

Alt Rockers Talk Fighting, Adapt Alex J MacPherson

said “why don’t you guys make a record that you would really want Our Lady Peace is back. Al- to sit down and listen to over and though it’s true that they never over.” We hadn’t done too much, really went away, internal difficul- four or five songs. We got inspired ties and a series of tepidly received by the idea of just chucking those, albums threatened to silence one of starting over.

Canada’s best rock & roll bands for AJM: A simple idea, right? good. But like a boxer who refuses SM: It sounds strange to say, but to stay down, Our Lady Peace is when you’re recording and writing up off the canvas, and their new sometimes you’re thinking, okay, we record, Curve, is a should make sure return to form for “It’s not easy being a we have some the unpredictable band and … not get stuff like this and Toronto band: knocked down…” some stuff like eclectic, intimate this. You’re afraid -Steve Mazur sometimes to just and deeply indignant. Verb caught up with guitarist make something that you would Steve Mazur to talk about growing, completely listen to or find fasfighting and changing things up. cinating because you wonder if Alex J MacPherson: You started you would alienate certain fans. this album and ended up throwing it We found that a really inspiring all away before starting again. Why? thought.

Steve Mazur: We started workAJM: The album cover is a phoing on the record just the four of tograph of fighter George Chuvalo, us, the way we had done the last and the boxing metaphor seems to record, and it was good. There was pervade the record. Why boxing? some great stuff. But then the guy SM: I think the boxing theme who produced this record, Jason with this record is just as a band Lader, came on our radar. He was we’ve gone through a lot of bathanging out with Raine one night… tles, externally, internally. It’s not he threw an idea in Raine’s head, easy being a band and being able

Culture tion Pages PH, PH PH PH–PH, ‘PH VerbNews.com

Pages 10, 11 Pages Apr 5–12,10, ‘12 11 VerbNews.com

Marriage And Music: Whitehorse Does It All Alex J MacPherson

nd Duncan Coutts comprise the alt rock band, Our Lady Peace

Photo: courtesy of the artist

Our Lady Peace

ting And Dropping New Album to stay up and not get knocked down; a band can be a very difficult thing, and in some ways we’ve been incredibly lucky and in other ways we’ve had to really get up and dust ourselves off and keep fighting. That is something we liked the idea of.

AJM: You’ve been a part of this band for almost a decade now. What does that arc feel like to you now?

SM: First of all it’s a dream come true, if that’s not obvious. I was a fan of the band beforehand, and I think especially with this record I was a pretty big part of [it] and I felt more comfortable even than on Burn Burn. I can honestly say a lot of the things that went on in this record and a lot of the fulfillment I’ve felt and places I’ve gotten to as a musician — I don’t think I would have gotten to those places not being in this band. As a band on this record we pushed ourselves a lot. I really grew a lot on this record.

AJM: You guys have always been known for performing live. What can audiences expect this time around?

SM: I’m not one to try and hype things up a ton, but we’re trying to change up everything. We’ve

definitely been aware for a while that fans have wanted to hear deeper tracks from us, tracks from albums that weren’t singles. We’re busting out some deep tracks, we’re going to try and change the set up more, the songs from night to night.

We may even be set up onstage a little differently than people have seen in the past. We’re trying to make it very different.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Regina, SK — For most couples, the phrase every waking minute is a metaphor or an exaggeration.

For Melissa McClelland and Luke Doucet, it’s a way of life.

McClelland and her husband Doucet have spent the past decade or so building parallel but ultimately separate music careers, though their latest venture brings them together in a completely different way. Marrying two of the brightest lights in Canadian music, Whitehorse is at its core a musical expression of the vows McClelland tour or his tour. Now it really is a and Doucet uttered in 2006. band [and] we put a lot of our own “We used to spend big chunks of creative energy into it. It means the time apart and large chunks of time world to both of us.” together,” laughs McClelland. “Now McClelland and Doucet released it’s all Whitehorse their first album all the time. We’re “We used to spend big under the name touring full-time, chunks of time apart …

Whitehorse in Auplaying really Now it’s all Whitehorse all gust. Also called fantastic shows, Whitehorse, the playing the mu- the time.” record sounds -Melissa McClelland like marriage: ocsic that we love to play — it’s an amazing opportunity casionally gritty, sometimes fracto be able to share that and do that tious, always deeply passionate. together.”

Whitehorse casts themes from both “We’ve worked together a lot, singers’ careers in new light — and but it was never on those terms,” the songs are better for it. Besides she continues. “It was always my the new compositions, the record also includes a pair of reworked songs and a minimalist yet magnificent cover of Springsteen’s “I’m on Fire.”

Our Lady Peace “We haven’t really sat down and Where: The Distrikt When: Apr 14 written songs together as people Cost: Sold Out imagine we do,” explains McClelland. “We don’t sit down with two Jordan Klassen guitars and a bottle of wine and Where: The Exchange write music together. We’re really When: Apr 19 Cost: $10 just throwing ideas back and forth until it becomes a fully formed Whitehorse song. We’re not going by anybody’s Where: Artesian on 13 rules; we’re just trying to come up When: Apr 18 Cost: $15 in advance or $20 at the door with the best songs, whatever that takes.”

Want some coverage for your upcoming event? Email layout@verbnews.com ASAP! Recording the album led both

Event Info

Photo: courtesy of Raina + Wilson

McClelland and Doucet to take risks, as many of the songs were built in the studio — a dangerous gamble when the clock is running.

“I think ‘Killing Time’ is a great example,” says McClelland. “We had the guitar part and the melody floating around the night before we went into the studio. [We were] changing things around while we were tracking. It’s an interesting way to do things because the pressure is on.”

The finished product is a reflection of its creators, their influences and inspirations. Doucet’s snarling guitar is present and immediate; so too is McClelland’s subdued but no less effective playing.

The music is inventive and evocative, an apt demonstration of what experience and dedication can produce.

Whitehorse shows how something can be greater than the sum of its parts.

“I think that just happens when [you have] been singing with someone for so long,” says McClelland.

Whitehorse will be playing the Artesian on April 18th, but if you can’t make the show don’t worry: the winsome duo will be back this summer playing Ness Creek.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Food

Page 12

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Of all the dry cured meats, prosciutto might be the most sought after and the most highly regulated. Prosciutto is essentially Italian ham, but there is much more to this delicacy, so here are some meaty facts.

Prosciutto (also called ■Parma ham) is dry cured with It can take between nine ■months and two years to

Table 10’s Diverse Menu Delicious

One of the earliest refer■ences to a ham similar to

Jessica Bickford

salt and then air dried

prepare a ham

prosciutto appeared in Italy in 100 B.C.E

are ten regions in Italy ■thatThere produce prosciutto with European Union Protected Designations of Origin

Photos: courtesy of Kendra Kuss

Familiar Favourites, Fresh Treats At Cathedral Village Restaurant Denise Blondeau opened Table 10 less than a year ago, and since then I have only heard positive things about both the food and atmosphere.

Located just off 13th avenue in

the heart of the Cathedral Village, this restaurant and cocktail lounge is in the centre of independent business in Regina. Denise, along with her head chef Jssel Blackmoer and pastry chef Karla Rackou, has created a unique restaurant with a menu that is diverse while still offering a few familiar favourites.

We started with the sesame tuna and avocado bruschetta on black pepper poppadoms. The poppadoms were very light and crispy with a great crunch that worked well with the smooth topping of avocado and tuna. There were hints of citrus and cilantro that perked up the flavour of this refreshing version of chips and guacamole.

Next we had the prosciutto, walnut and chevre salad with baby arugula and roasted red pepper

vinaigrette, which offered large with a savoury, caramelized taste chunks of crispy, salty prosciutto that is a classic accompaniment to among the crumbled, tangy goat steak. The mashed potatoes were cheese and the crunchy walnuts. terrific, creamy with a strong roastThe slightly bitter arugula mix ed garlic flavour. The steak was an went really well with the sweet- exceptional cut of meat, incredness of the roasted red pepper ibly juicy and packed with beefy vinaigrette, and richness. I ordered all together this “The dark chocolate mine rare, and it was a hearty salad mousse is rich, intense … came thusly with with complex fla- and not too sweet.” a gorgeously pink vours that would centre dripping -Jessica Bickford with juice and be great if you wanted a lighter meal. perfectly seasoned.

For the entrée I had the 8-ounce Being practically next door to AAA Angus beef tenderloin with their Regina location, it is no wonsautéed mushrooms, roasted garlic der that Table 10 has a mousse on mashed potatoes and roasted win- their menu featuring Bernard Calter vegetables. The roasted vegeta- lebaut chocolate. bles — including beets, carrots and This was the prettiest dessert I’ve onions — were sweet and tender, ever seen, with the fluffy mousse and the mushrooms were buttery swirled in a clear bowl and topped with a strawberry, some mint leaves, a shard of brandy snap and a delicate grid of caramelized sugar.

The dark chocolate mousse is rich, intense, smooth, creamy and not too sweet, while the crunch of the brandy snap adds an element of texture to this otherwise light treat.

Table 10 makes all of their food from scratch (including their breads) and the majority of their menu is gluten free.

They also have a great brunch menu on the weekends that they serve until 3 PM for late risers like me. The rumours are true: the food at Table 10 is spectacular, and the atmosphere is chic and intimate.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Table 10 Restaurant

Address: 2118 Robinson Street Hours: Tues — Sat 11:30 AM — close,

Sun 11 AM — 3 PM; 5 PM — close Reservations: 543-8836

Opinion

Page 13

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Curbside Recycling Will Be Good For Us Mandating The Practice Will Increase Efficiency Without Costing Us That Much The Editors of Verb

Regina, SK — We think mandatory curbside recycling in Regina is a great idea.

It is about time Saskatchewan started being more progressive in terms of green initiatives.

The current model of depots scattered throughout the city is wildly inefficient, and the long-term costs associated with the curbside recycling are relatively low. And besides, it’s good for the environment.

According to the city of Regina’s website we have one of two options: we can either pay a fee to have Go Green Recycling or Crown Shred & Recycling come pick up our recyclables.

Or, we can get in our car and drive to a number of various depots to drop off our materials. This op- this: we are spending good tax doltion is plainly ridiculous. lars to expand our landfills to hold Typically, if we want to recycle recyclables, stuff that doesn’t need our cardboard or paper, there are to be there. blue bins scattered throughout It may well be cheaper to fork the city where we can drop these out eight bucks a month for recymaterials off, or pay to have Go cling and, in the process, expand Green or Crown the life of our Shred come and “To work effectively, landfill. collect them.

Last year Rerecycling must be … even But according easier … than throwing gina build a new to the city’s webdump that borsite, if we want to things in the trash” ders our existing -Verb’s Editors one, which we exrecycle drink containers we have to go to a separate pect to last our city approximately location altogether.

20 years.

If we want to recycle tins, But the more waste we can dithough, our only option is to pay vert from the landfill — particularly a fee to have either Go Green or as the costs of running a dump Crown Shred come gather them. increases — the better.

Can’t get to SARCAN or make it to Besides, recycling itself is a good one of the depots — just toss it in investment. trash. Sounds efficient, right?

According to StatsCan, our counThis is why mandatory curbside try’s landfills are reaching capacity, recycling is a good idea. and we need to do whatever we Let’s face it: we’ve all been guilty, can to keep unwanted material out. one time or another, of being lazy Furthermore, approximately a when it comes to recycling. But quarter of Canada’s methane gas according to Statistics Canada, that (a greenhouse gas) emissions are laziness is a serious threat to green produced by our dumps. practices. Barriers to collection We can cut emissions by makneed to be low, otherwise people ing our landfills leaner and more simply won’t make the effort. efficient.

To work effectively, recycling And we need to — according must be as easy — or even easier to the City of Regina, the average — than throwing things in the trash. household produces about 14,000 So what’s this all going to cost? litres of trash a year.

Well, the city estimates that ReWhich is why, to us, it seems simgina’s program will cost single fam- ple: mandatory curbside recycling ily dwellings around $8 per month is the way to go. It’s vastly more — a modest sum. efficient than our current system, it People will surely grumble that will decrease the amount of waste they shouldn’t be forced to recycle; going into our landfills and it benthat is inescapable. But consider efits the environment.

Photo: courtesy of the Other Dan

Really, there’s nothing to complain about — so let’s embrace it,

dig our tins, drink containers and paper out of the garbage, and get

recycling.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Movies

Page Page 14PH

AprPH 5–12, PH–PH, ‘12 ‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Close’s Albert Nobbs Compelling, Sweet Character Nuances Portrayed Perfectly In Touching Look At Identity, Love Albert Nobbs

Runtime: 113 Minutes Rated: PG Adam Hawboldt Glenn Close has spent quite some time trying to get a film version of Albert Nobbs, which is based on a novella by Irish novelist George Moore, made for the big screen.

Way back in 1982, about a half a decade before Close’s starmaking roles in Fatal Attraction or

Dangerous Liaisons, the esteemed intriguing and coherent plots, then actress won an Obie for her role in you might want to skip this one. the stage version of the story. Since But, on the other hand, if you really then, she’s had a lingering urge to dig movies that are deep character break Nobbs into Hollywood. studies, then this is a film you’d love, Earlier this because from top year Close finally “Close is luminous in the to bottom, Albert got her wish. Too role, bringing a certain Nobbs is nothing bad the finished sweet and vulnerable if not a fascinatproduct isn’t exing look at a comactly worth the fragility to Albert.” plex, perplexing -Adam Hawboldt and interesting 30-year wait.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that character.

Albert Nobbs is a bad film, because Set in 19th-century Ireland, the it’s not. It’s just that you have to movie tells the story of Nobbs understand what you’re getting (Close), a sad little fellow who reinto with this flick. ally isn’t a fellow at all. Nope, Albert See, if you like movies with, say, is actually a woman who is forced to conceal her gender and identity in order to avoid prostitution, exploitation and, ultimately, the poor house.

But conceal it Albert does, and in the process manages to hold on to his (a pronoun I’ll employ to keep things more straightforward) job as a butler at a fancy hotel in Dublin.

Part of his ability to hold down this gig lays in the fact that Albert has perfected the art of seeming invisible.

Unlike a lot of other, more boisterous employees at the hotel, Albert never draws attention to himself (partly because it’s his job, partly to keep himself safe) and seems to blend into the place like a piece of furniture.

But then Albert meets Hubert Page (Janet McTeer), a house painter who is also a woman dressed as a man. Not only is he a she, Hubert also has a wife and owns his own business.

With this fateful revelation, the closeness and carefully scripted nature of Albert’s world explodes with possibilities.

Close is luminous in the role, bringing a certain sweet and vulnerable fragility to Albert. She plays the character perfectly, and was certainly deserving of her Oscar nomination.

With Close driving the picture, the film manages to be touching but not maudlin, smart but not pretentious. And through the entire thing, Close lets Albert’s little surprises about life’s possibilities be both tragic and comic all at once.

There are certain plot points that don’t appear overly natural, and some questions about the delicacy of posing as a man go unanswered, but nevertheless Albert Nobbs is a

Photo: courtesy of Roadside Attractions

thoroughly engrossing film, and Close, in the lead role, hovers very near to acting perfection.

Albert Nobbs is being screened

at Regina Public Library April 12-15; see http://www.reginalibrary.ca/ for show times and more information.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Movies

Page Page 15PH

AprPH 5–12, PH–PH, ‘12 ‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Raunchy Reunion Brings Back The Funny Photo: Universal Pictures

Latest Installment In American Pie Franchise Reinvigorates This Comedy Family American Reunion

Runtime: 113 Minutes Rated: 18A Adam Hawboldt I didn’t expect to like American Reunion.

In fact, I expected to hate it. Sure, there was no way in hell it could be the worst installment of the franchise — Band Camp, The Naked Mile, Beta House and The Book of Love all vie for that honour. But the American Pie series was tired, old, dated and running on empty. There was

no way a reunion movie could be Kumar movies. anything but stale and destined for The result is a raunchy romp, failure, right? Wrong. filled with inappropriate zest, good American Reunion, while not writing and wall-to-wall laughs. quite as good as the first American The premise of Reunion is fairly Pie, was infinitely simple: the whole better and fun- “This time around, Scott gang, all grown nier than all the takes his character to a up, returns home rest of the series whole new … hilariously for their high combined. school reunion.

But how did disturbing level.”

And to be honest, -Adam Hawboldt it’s nice how they they do it? How did they resurrect a flailing, dying all turned out. franchise?

Jim (Jason Biggs) and Michelle Well, for starters they brought (Alyson Hannigan) are stuck in a back the original cast. sexless marriage, Oz (Chris Klein) And then the powers-that-be is an ESPN-wannabe sportscaster/ went one step further and hired reality-TV dancing contestant, writing partners Jon Hurwitz and Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas) lives Hayden Schlossberg — the guys a domestic existence watching responsible for all the Harold & Real Housewives, Finch (Eddie Kaye

Thomas) is a world-weary traveller who still longs for Stifler’s mom, and Stifler (Seann William Scott), well … Stifler is, as usual, just plain awesome.

Arguably funnier than ever, the Stifmeister is now working a crappy temp job and living at home with his cougar of a mom.

Oh, and did I mention that Scott steals every scene in which he appears?

This time around, Scott takes his character to a whole new absurd and hilariously disturbing level.

Case in point: the scene involving Stifler and the beer cooler.

I don’t want to give anything away, so let’s just say the scene is bust-a-gut funny.

As for the movie as a whole,

American Reunion is kind of like a person who blindfolds themselves, picks up a dart, throws it and hits double 20’s — over and over again.

Which is to say that, unlike a lot of comedies these days, Reunion builds a sense of momentum, never lets up and continuously hits the mark despite all the odds.

That being said, this movie certainly isn’t for everybody: if the idea of a guy’s trouser snake being crushed offends you, or adults getting into fist fights with kids seems completely wrong, then you may want to skip this film.

But if you’re funny bone is tickled by all things disgusting, then you just might want to attend this Reunion.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Texts

Page 16

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

This Week: SLGA’s Harsh Rules Last week we asked what you thought about the SLGA dictating what we can watch while we drink — here’s what you had to say!

Next week’s topic: see page 13 — what do you think about

mandatory curbside recycling in Regina? Text FEEDBACK and your thoughts about the topic (or anything else) to 306–881-VERB (8372) and you could see your text printed in next week’s issue!

On Topic Due to our current and past governments (born again) cult beliefs we remain 150 years behind

the societal liberties enjoyed by people who live elsewhere.

We are in a Police State. Harper is Pope Wall is just one of his Cardinals who plan to outlaw nudity nationwide. They want us living in a Maoist Canada. Their motto is (cover your tits or go to jail). Lawyer 4 Nudity First of all, the slant of the Verb’s choice in wording on the question (plus the article) shows clearly the paper’s position on the SLGA. I have to disagree. I have no desire to see strip clubs return to SK, and that’s what this change would mean. Nobody is throwing fundraisers for prostate cancer with female strippers, and for good reason.

It’s tasteless. As a member of one of the largest targeted audiences for strip clubs (24 years old, male) I fully support any regulation which keeps stripping out of my city.

Truly I think we should

be able to watch strippers and drink.

They go hand in hand.

How ever it should be regulated and well supervised, hate to say it, but saskatchewans are a rowdy bunch ;) now…how to change the law and acquire good looking strippers......

The SLGA has no right to tell people that they can’t drink while watching strippers a beer goes down better while watching nude women dance! :-)

Off Topic Re: Canada Should Cut Its Ties To The Queen,” Opinion page, March 23rd issue

My opinion i think that we should continue to have a relationship with the Queen and the monarchy as a sign of respect and honor Re: Canada Should Cut Its Ties To The Queen,” Opinion page, March 23rd issue

I dont think we should get rid of the queen if we do that where do my rights as a first nations go?. If the queen is gone and the right of the first nations go. It just might become a problem. People are going to get angry and stand up for the rights of first nations. :) < <=MsForReal= >> Re: “Canadian Brothel Ban Reversed,” Global page, March 30th issue

I certainly appreciate the Verb Editors’ Interest in this issue but is freedom really the issue here? These sex industry workers have likely got nine out of ten serious STDs and a thousand sexual partners to their disgrace. Any person who runs after such a sexual image is giving up a normal family life with a good

Texts partner - avoid such titillation and don’t get yourself all worked up … pursue what is good and moral and your life will be much better :-)

Re: “Canadian Brothel Ban Reversed,” Global page, March 30th issue

Kudos to Canada’s Ontario Court of Appeal on their decision which found Criminal Code provisions which targeted prostitutes for prosecution unconstitutional. When will we as a society address the causal roots of this issue?

There is an endemic understanding in Canada which demonizes women for their role in the sex trade; while selectively ignoring the systematic acceptance of violence towards women and inescapable poverty.

Invest in meaningful programming! Not punitive measures.

-Madeline Re: “Robo-Jellyfish,” Global page, March 23rd issue

Regarding the robot jellyfish I hope they realize that Spongebob and Patrick will stop at nothing to catch this amazing creature.

Re: “$3.7M For Legislative Renos Sparks Debate,” Local page, March 30th issue

Now I know why our water bills are increasing in the next three years… to finance this reno fiasco not to improve our water service….. my S**t still doesn’t go down in one flush.

I’ve eaten plenty of luncheon meat.

I’ve been to many luncheons. I’ve never been to a luncheon that had luncheon meat. That’s weird!

Page 17

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

The old hippies used to say “Drugs are fun to have but you don’t have to have drugs to have fun!” Then they all started working for IBM.

cause a fuss

You know you’re DOWNtown when your hood is slowly but surely falling or burning down around you!

“Text me if you want.” means... “I want you to text me.”

Fiiinally got my picture up in hurrr The higher you build the walls around your heart the harder you fall when someone tears them down. :-( :-( My friend Phillip had his lip removed today. We call him Phil now.

“Hands that help are far better than lips that pray” Daniel saraolu: if u like the queen so much why don’t u move to England. You are out to lunch Real men never stop trying to show a girl how much she means to him even after he’s got her.

It could be fair if you made a agreement with first nation to do the work and try to mend the fences that’s politicaly correct and neither side would

Out of all the things in life that I could fear the only thing that would hurt me is if you weren’t here.

Oo ee oo ah ah ching chang walla walla bing bang oo ee oo ah ah ching chang walla walla bing bang! Oo ee oo ah ah ching chang walla walla bing bang oo ee oo ah ah ching chang walla walla bing bang!

As cute as it may seem to have your dog on your lap while you drive, it is very dangerous. If you are ever involved in an accident, your dog will be the first thing that the airbags will make contact with and could prove to be fatal to our pet.

Food processors put expiry dates on for good reason. It defines the period when the preservative chemicals are stable. There’s little data on what they break down into or how the products react with the chemistry of the food. God knows what the health impacts will be for a generation of children raised on expired food.

Screw anyone who

thinks drivers should slow down in this city.

Down with school zones!The speed limit should be 60 on almost every street.

God I HATE doddlers.

I’m late, I have placed to be. Move it or lose it, jerk.

To those who are worked up about Graham James, there will never be justice for those sexually abused in Canada. I have first hand experienced the abuse from someone who abused at least 25 kids for years and all he got was a

year in prison. Our government doesn’t care.

Kids should appreciate and respect their parents for one day they will no longer be with you until you realize how much you want them back, do things for your parents without being asked by them to do stuff they want you to do and tell them that you love them. YB The opinions expressed on this page are not necessarily Verb’s.

Nightlife

Page 18

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Friday @ Hermosa Charity Ball Venue

Hermosa Charity Ball at the Hotel Saskatchewan on Friday, March 23rd

Location

2125 Victoria Avenue

Event

First annual Hermosa Charity Ball raises money and awareness to support children who are battling cancer through ticket sales, donations and silent auction

Funds Raised

The money is still being tallied, but is estimated to be at least a few thousand dollars

Fashion Show

A fashion show was put together by fashion designer Riley Lawson, and featured models from Edge Agency, with makeup by Sara Lindsay and hair by Tyler Maurice

In Attendance

Photos courtesy of Klein Photography (feedback@verbnews.com)

Tables there included Moxie’s, Earls, Pure Clothing, Sask Fashion Week, Golds Gym and Studio Skin, among many others

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Okay, Pisces. This may sound a little “out there,” but that’s because it is. Your mind may take a hard mystical turn this week. If so, it will be a fantastic time to look into new spiritual and metaphysical concepts, to expand your knowledge of things like astrology and numerology, and perhaps dabble in some occult sciences, too. Will these open your mind’s eye to new realities? Maybe. Or it might just provide something that will be new and interesting to bone up on.

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Pisces (Feb 20–Mar 20)

If you like learning and teaching, there’s some good news coming your way, dear Virgo. Due to the planetary setup, your desire to acquire knowledge and impart it to others will be operating at crazy high levels this week. Put this to good use: read up on something that has piqued your interest, watch some documentaries, go to a museum — it doesn’t really matter. As long as you keep searching for knowledge over the next few days, you’ll find it.

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Virgo (Aug 23–Sept 22)

Having problems getting through to people? No matter what you say it seems as though it’s going over people’s heads or in one ear and out the other? If so, dear Aquarius, remember that conversation is often the slowest means of communication. And if you want to get through to someone, drop the vain attempts and talking, take action and show people exactly what you mean. We’re not talking a glorified game of charades here. We’re talking about getting things done.

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Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19)

We all know you’re the star of the show, dear Leo. Your personality is magnetic and you attract attention whether you want it or not, but this week, instead of being your usual confident self, try being meek and humble for a change. In the Rigveda, an ancient Indian collection of Vedic Sanskrit hymns, it notes, “A person can achieve everything by being simple and humble.” Wise words indeed. Why not heed them this week and see where it gets you — you might just be surprised.

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Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22)

We all love reveling in our own brilliant ideas, dear Capricorn. That’s human nature. But this week, how about making the main focus other people’s ideas? Take them for what they are, assess them, praise them (if warranted) or help make them better (if needed). If you can do this, not only will you be a big help, but you may also find some inspiration in the ideas of others. Those fragile sparks that set your imagination ablaze could lead you somewhere new.

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Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19)

This is a good week to get things done, dear Cancer. It’s a great time to put in some hard work, accomplish goals you’ve set for yourself, and maybe even exceed your own expectations. Motivation should be burning bright in you this week, so put it to good use. And if it’s not, plug on anyway. You’ll be rewarded for every little last iota of effort you put in over the next few days. Virtuoso boxer Floyd Mayweather’s credo is “Hard work.

Dedication.” Good words for you, Cancer.

Some people are wary of impulses: take Vincent van Gogh for example. The famous artist once said that “Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” Then again, van Gogh cut his own ear off so you may want to take his advice sparingly. Instead, listen to your instincts, dear Sagittarius. Trust your own compulsions.

If you feel like doing something (legal and not cruel), do it. Now is the time to go for the gusto.

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Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22)

Luck. Do you believe in it, dear Gemini? If not, maybe this week will change your mind, because the universe has some exciting and timely things in store for you. These won’t be readily apparent and overt, but when they do come, boy oh boy will it be enjoyable! So embrace whatever comes your way this week. In doing so, though, remember that luck isn’t simply a product of itself. The luckiest people in the world also tend to be some of the hardest working.

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Sagittarius (Nov 23–Dec 21)

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Gemini (May 21–Jun 20)

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Feeling under the weather, dear Scorpio? A tad tired and lethargic? You may have been doing double duty, burning the candle at both ends or setting fire to the midnight oil. If so, the obvious move is to slow your roll, take a break and relax. And even though you might feel this is impossible right now, you have to slow down. By over-exerting yourself you’re doing no one any favours, so take some time out to rest. You won’t be disappointed.

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Scorpio (Oct 24–Nov 22)

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“Dream as if you’ll live forever, live as if you’ll die today.” That was a motto James Dean lived by, and while it is good advice, the dreams he was talking about aren’t the dreams you should be focused on this week, dear Taurus. Instead, pay attention to the fantasies and visions you have while asleep: they could offer some sudden insight and steer you towards valuable sources of information. And if these visions seem unorthodox, don’t write them off.

Judge not lest ye want to lose friends and allies, dear Libra. This week you may be feeling negative towards those around you, so try to nip that urge in the bud.

Sure it’s easy to critique, but until you’ve walked 10 miles in their work boots, stilettos, stilts or whatever, you can never know what it’s like to be another person.

By avoiding censoring those around you, not only are you avoiding possible turbulence, but you’ll also take a giant step along the path to self-actualization.

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Taurus (Apr 20–May 20)

Libra (Sept 23–Oct 23)

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With the weather warming up and the snow melting, you may find that your mind is drifting toward the warmer days of summer. They’re still a long way away, so if the urge to hit the beach gets too overwhelming why not make plans to head down south some time soon?

Everything could come together to make this possible, so keep your eyes peeled for a break and jump at it. Getting away might help recharge the battery and fill you full of pep.

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Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19)

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Horoscopes

Apr 5–12, ‘12 VerbNews.com 7 5 3 6 9 8 1 4 2

Time Out

Page 19

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Sudoku

Directions: Fill each box with a digit from 1-9, following these conditions: - Each row must contain every digit from 1-9 once and only once.

- Each column must contain every digit from 1-9 once and only once.

- Each of the nine 3x3 boxes must contain every digit from 1-9 once and only once.

2 9

5 8 4 3 7 6 6 9 9 6 3 1 2 4 1 5 9 4 5 2 8 1

3 2 7 1 3 8 7 6 7 8 5 4