Verb Issue R25 (April 27-May 3, 2012)

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Apr 27–May 3, 2012 • Pass it on

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Drunk Driving Rate Soars

Economy Keeps Dangerous Motorists Here: MADD P2

Jayme Stone

Banjoist Pushes Musical Boundaries P10

The Five-Year Engagement

Segel, Blunt Shine In Hilarious Romcom P15

$5K Dog Wedding ‘Bride’ Wore Couture Gown P7

Peter Katz Getting Intimate With This Canadian Singer P9

Photo: courtesy of Thomas Van der Zaag

Section Local Page 2

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

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Drunk Driving Fatalities Highest In Sask Booming Economy Keeps Dangerous Motorists In Province: MADD Canada Alex J MacPherson

By contrast, the national average was 3.18, and Ontario came in at just Regina, SK — Among Cana- 2.03 deaths per 100,000. dians, Saskatchewan residents The damning report lists Sasare the most likely to be killed by katchewan as a jurisdiction that is a drunk driver, a new report by “making no progress” and states Mothers Against that the provDrunk Driving “It’s similar to what ince has failed to Canada (MADD) Alberta experienced. implement major says. impaired driving Saskatchewan didn’t do In 2009, Sasinitiatives in the k a t c h e w a n well; neither did Alberta.” past three years.

-Andrew Murie posted the worst Andrew Murie, numbers in the country: 8.44 peo- MADD Canada CEO, attributes the ple per 100,000 died in “impair- high rate of impaired driving deaths ment-related crashes.” to a booming economy which has kept the most dangerous drivers in the province.

“Saskatchewan is now what they call a have province,” he explains.

“You see your young males staying at home. They are getting jobs and the population is growing quite dramatically. If you look at the 15 to 24-year-olds, even though they represent 13 percent of the population, they represent one third of the fatalities.”

“It’s similar to what Alberta experienced,” he adds. “Saskatchewan didn’t do well; neither did Alberta.”

According to the report, Alberta experienced 5.70 deaths per 100,000 people in 2009.

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI), which handles property and casualty insurance, is hopeful.

“Overall, 2009 was a bad year for alcohol-related fatalities, but we’ve seen significant improvements since then,” says Rebecca Rogoschewsky, SGI media relations manager.

Photo: courtesy of Matt Carman

But, she explains, between 2010 and 2011 the number of deaths fell by “approximately 30 percent,” and the rate has been “consistently decreasing” since 2009.

Although these figures are preliminary, “those numbers look positive to us,” she adds.

According to Murie, MADD uses national numbers that tend to lag behind those collected by the provinces.

But, he says, “if SGI is telling you

the numbers went down by [30 percent], I’m thrilled by that.”

Rogoschewsky points to a number of programs that appear to have depressed the number of deaths. Report Impaired Drivers (RID), which was introduced in 2010, allows private citizens to report suspected drunk drivers. SGI has also collaborated with municipal police on traffic safety blitzes — widelyadvertised check stops designed to discourage impaired driving.

Murie agrees that RID has been “very successful,” but thinks Saskatchewan should make three significant changes.

He favours mandatory interlock, which forces people convicted of impaired driving to pass a breathalyzer test before starting their vehicles, and a zero tolerance law for drivers under 21, meaning any alcohol in the bloodstream would result in a significant penalty.

He also supports increased penalties for drivers caught with a blood alcohol level between .04 and .07 percent.

Although it is not a criminal code offence, Saskatchewan drivers currently face an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension for blowing between .04 and .07. A second offence will net the driver a 15-day suspension and a spot in a driving without impairment course.

“We know that suspending somebody’s license for 24 hours doesn’t work,” says Murie.

“What does work is what they’ve done in BC. They suspend the license at least three days and impound the vehicle for the same period. [When they did that], their deaths went down by 40 percent in one year.”

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Section

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Section Local Page 4

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

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House Improvement Program Revamped

Initiative Aims To Help Repair, Rebuild Affordable Housing Already Constructed Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — The provincial government has its eye on affordable housing, and is determined to keep as many properties as possible on the market.

“The most affordable housing is the housing we already have,” says Don Allen, president of the Sas-

“As [someone] who needs to … adapt [a home] because of disability … [i]t’s much simpler…”

-Don Allen katchewan Housing Corporation.

“What we were finding is that there were some homes that needed a little bit more work and the homeowners simply couldn’t afford to repair them…because the repair program couldn’t help them.”

Photo: courtesy of Daniel Paquet

To preserve existing homes, the government has repackaged and

relaunched a suite of programs designed to improve and repair

residential properties. Ten strategies have been consolidated into the Saskatchewan Home Repair Program, meaning money will be easier to access than ever before.

According to Allen, the old system was difficult to navigate, fraught with financial limitations, and bound people to the government for long periods. This, he says, has changed.

“As [someone] who needs to repair their home or perhaps adapt it because of disability, you don’t know which of the ten [programs] is the one that works for you,” he states.

“Today, it’s one. It’s much simpler and at the same time it’s also designed to better respond to the costs of actually doing the work.”

The Saskatchewan Home Repair Program also includes a number of new benefits for applicants. Although it is designed for people on low and moderate incomes, higher eligibility thresholds have been built in, including criteria that make it easier for people with disabilities to receive money.

“By expanding the financing available, we’re able to save more homes,” Allen explains. “To keep a house for the sake of $20,000 as compared to replacing it at a cost of $150,000, which is a fairly modest home price today in any community, is a fairly easy decision to make.”

In a news release, Minister for Social Services June Draude said, “in order to meet the growing housing needs in our province, we have to both increase the amount of

affordable housing and also maintain the existing stock. [This program] will help us achieve these important objectives” David Forbes, opposition housing critic, says the NDP has been looking at the program and has some concerns.

“It’s a program that a lot of people count on, especially in the moderate income neighbourhoods, and I think people were expecting more from this government to help out,” he states, adding that the strategy is extremely important across the province, especially in the north. To be successful, he explains, it must incorporate more reasonable timelines and processes.

“It’s not very friendly to families and seniors when they’re looking to make some improvements to their home,” says Forbes.

Landlords and property owners are also eligible for benefits provided they respect certain rent levels after receiving government funds. Allen says this is designed to increase the number of available rental units.

The government has also enhanced the Conversion Initiative, which helps owners develop commercial space into single- or multiple-unit residential properties.

In addition to a shorter loan forgiveness period, the revamped program includes significant subsidy increases. The standalone unit subsidy is now $30,000, up from $24,000. The subsidy for multiple-unit properties jumped from $16,000 to $23,000 per unit.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Global

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Apr 27–May PH PH–PH, 3, ‘12 ‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Sex, Food Cravings Control Us Adam Hawboldt

Flirty Coworkers Bored Men Who Tease At Work Dissatisfied, Unfeeling Adam Hawboldt

Surrey, ENgland — Men who flirt on the job actually have lower levels of job satisfaction compared to their more restrained counterparts, new research has revealed.

What’s more, the flirtatious behaviour didn’t stem from any sort of actual attraction to the other person, but rather was the result of a listless tedium these men felt about their jobs.

Psychologists from Surrey University in England surveyed 200 people while trying to test their theory that flirting at work will improve one’s chance of being

promoted. they don’t really understand other “What we found was the com- people’s feelings. plete opposite,” says Dr. Adrian Because of this, suggests Dr. Banks, lead author of the study.

Banks, men may have a difficult “Flirts don’t perform better at time suppressing their flirtatious work and men who flirt are less sat- behaviour. Not only that, they may isfied with their jobs,” he continues. also not even realize that some“There is strong evidence against times their actions are inapprothe notion that priate. you can flirt your “Flirting is not going to be “Flirting is not way to the top.” the way to advance your going to be the What’s more, career…” way to advance a follow-up quesyour career, and -Dr. Adrian Banks of course flirting, tio nnaire w as administered and found that not when it is unwanted, is not approonly were flirts bored at the work- priate,” adds Banks. place, they also had low levels of “It is not going to help and could something called “emotional intel- be harmful.” ligence” — which simply means Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Asteroids Next Mining Frontier?

Adam Hawboldt

fuel and minerals like platinum and gold from the asteroids that Seattle, wa — James Cameron pass by Earth. knows about being first.

“It is the stuff of science fiction, This past March he became the but … it’s possible to [make] them first person to make a solo trip to reality,” says former astronaut and Challenger Deep — the deepest company advisor, Thomas Jones. known point of According to Earth’s oceans. “It is the stuff of science The Globe and And now he, fiction…”

Mail, scientists along with a not involved -Thomas Jones with the endeavgroup of hightech tycoons that includes Google our were thrilled at the possibility, CEO Larry Page, wants to become but remain skeptical because the the first to mine asteroids. mission would be extremely costly.

Cameron has signed on as an Currently, an ounce of gold is investor/advisor with Planetary worth about $1,600 an ounce, but Resources Inc. — a company that a NASA mission to mine, say, two plans to use commercially build ounces would cost over $1 billion. robotic ships to squeeze rocket Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Global At A Glance g-spot — Though its existence has

been debated since the ‘40s, Dr. Adam Ostrzenski of the Institute of Gynecology in St. Petersburg, FL, claims to have found the mythical erotic pleasure

button. After dissecting a female cadaver, Ostrzenski discovered a small, grape-like sac about 1.6 centimetres up from the urethra, which was well hidden. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Hanover, NH — People may actually be hardwired to give into food or sexual cravings, researchers have found.

Scientists from Dartmouth College examined 48 female freshmen, and showed them pictures of food, sex, landscapes and people while subjecting them to fMRI brain imaging.

Six months later, the women returned for a follow-up session.

The subjects who experienced hyperactivity in their nucleus accumbens (the key reward structure in the brain) while looking at food pictures gained more weight, while those who experienced hyperactivity in their accumbens while looking at erotic pictures had more sex.

Curiously enough, their “appetites” didn’t cross over. Those with strong responses to food didn’t have the same responses to sex, and vice versa.

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Feature

Page 6

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Big Country Talent Show Kicks Off Again

Annual Contest Offers Craven Country Jamboree Slot, $5,000 Recording Package Sebastian Dangerfield

Regina, SK — Aristotle once wrote that, “change in all things is sweet.”

If that holds true, then this year’s 620 CKRM Big Country Talent Show threatens to be sweeter than ever before. That’s because the event, which will be held at the Pump Roadhouse, has been tweaked a tad from years past. Nothing major, mind you, but there have been a few changes that will subtly push the competition in a slightly new direction.

The first change occurred at the very base of the Big Country Talent

Show’s foundation: gone is Willy certainly hasn’t been easy.

Cole, who helped come up with the “It’s been a fair amount of work,” idea for the contest, and organized chuckles Biebrick. “Getting all the the event on an annual basis for the submissions in and putting togethpast 34 years. er the adjudicat“Last year Willy “[W]hat we want to do is ing panel and got everything give people, especially working on the set up and got the young artists and prizing structure ball rolling,” says … yeah, it’s been Grant Biebrick, amateurs, the chance…” a fair amount.”

-Grant Biebrick program director But it’s been for 620 CKRM. “Then he retired and worth it. Not only has Biebrick been I came in and took over. I was in for having fun getting the contest up the last run-off and the final. But and running, he’s also implemented all the groundwork was on him.” a couple of changes that will give This year, though, getting the the talent show a slightly different talent show off the ground was look than in years gone by. all Biebrick’s responsibility. And it First off, he changed the format.

“There used to be four run-offs with usually around seven to eight (musicians) in each, but this year we’re going with two run-offs and we’re aiming to have 12 (musicians) in each one.”

These first round run-offs, which used to be held on Sundays, have been switched this year to Saturdays — the first on April 28th, the second on May 5th.

Along with these slight format alterations, Biebrick also implemented an age limit to this year’s show.

“You now have to be 14 years of age to enter,” he explains. “There have been younger people in the past, but I thought that at 14, at least you’ll be able to go out and do some shows. If we’re going to give them an opportunity like this

Photo: courtesy of Big Country Talent Show

Singer Brandy Young, 2011 620 CKRM Big Country Talent Show winner

to succeed, they should at least be able to get out there and play.”

And while these new changes may give the 2012 Big Country Talent Show a minor makeover, the essence of the event is the same as its always been.

“A lot of radio stations really drop the ball when it comes to supporting local talent,” says Biebrick. “So what we want to do is give people, especially young artists and amateurs, the chance to see what it’s like to take those first professional steps in the music business.”

They do this by giving the winner

an opportunity of a lifetime: prizes include air time on 620 CKRM, a spot at the Big Country Talent Revue at the Casino Regina Show Lounge, a slot on the main stage at Craven Country Jamboree, a $5,000 recording package at Twisted Pair Productions, a $3,000 photo shoot with Warne Photography, and two tickets to the CCMA 2012 Awards Show in Saskatoon.

For more information about the competition and this year’s contestants, go to http://www.620ckrm. com.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Offbeat

Page 7

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Dog Wedding Costs Thousands Adam Hawboldt

Caviar Speed-Eating Race

Winner Scarfed Down $5,000 Worth Of Delicacy Adam Hawboldt

in the shortest time possible.

When all was said and done, moscow, russia — What Alexander Valov was crowned the foods come to mind when you winner after the 49-year-old scarfed think about competitive speed down roughly $5,000 worth of caveating? iar in one minute and 26 seconds.

Hotdogs? Hamburgers? Pies?

For his efforts, Valov was given How about caviar? Recently a prize money of 10,000 rubles (about nightclub in Moscow, Russia, held $340) and a few cans of caviar. a speed-eating “I once saw a contest of one of “I thought, why shouldn’t report on how the world’s most we do our own Russian they made big expensive deli- competition?” chocolate truffles cacies — black in Georgia and -Alexander Novikov organized an eatcaviar.

Hundreds of people gathered at ing competition,” says Alexander the event. The names of 12 contes- Novikov, owner of Russian Caviar tants were then drawn from a hat House, the company that sponand each was given 500g of caviar sored the speed-eating contest. in crystal dishes.

“I remember foggy Albion where The challenge was simple: eat as they compete in nettle speedmuch of the delicacy as they could eating contests … I thought, why

Suspect Calls Cops For Rescue Adam Hawboldt

Thinking they had lost him, the officers went back to the street Montreal, qc — A teen flee- and left. An hour and a half later, a ing officers had to call police for call came in reporting a man who help after he wedged himself into a needed help. It was the teen they’d chimney trying to escape the cops, lost during the chase. and couldn’t get “The guy back out.

“The guy called [911] called [911] and The 19-year- and he was stuck in the he was stuck in o ld, w ho was chimney.” the chimney,” wanted on outrepor ts police -Daniel Lacoursiere spokesman Dans t anding warrants, was approached by officers iel Lacoursiere. “[He had] minor in the Villeray neighbourhood of injuries. He was stuck for a while.”

Montreal. When the cops went to The man was treated for minor arrest him, the suspect then scaled injuries and then arrested. a building. When the police reached He faces charges of violating the roof, the man was nowhere to conditions. be found.

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Offbeat At A Glance robot Mind control — Swiss scientists have developed a robot you can control with your thoughts. Mark-Andre Duc, a tetraplegic, was fitted with a cap that recorded his brain signals. He imagined lifting his fingers to direct the

robot, which was located 100km away, and it responded. The team says they have moved closer to helping immobile patients interact with their surrounding using robotic avatars. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

shouldn’t we do our own Russian competition?”

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custom couture dress for Scruffy, the shindig cost more than $5,000. palm desert, ca — It was a And while this all may sound wedding those in attendance won’t over-the-top, Ernie Rubin (mothsoon forget. er of the bride) and Ann Carter Despite scorching weather and (mother of the groom) made sure the absurd nature it was for a good of the nuptials, “[The wedding featured] cause. Instead of more than 100 a … cake, open bar and bringing gifts for people showed custom couture dress…” the newlyweds, up at a country guests were -Adam Hawboldt asked to make club in Palm Desert to watch a pair of canines get donations to the Orphan Pet Oasis married.

Humane Society.

Two dogs — Scruffy Rubin (the “In planning this event Ernie and bride) and Snickers Carter (the Ann wanted to make sure that a groom) — tied the knot in a wed- charity was involved,” says society ding that can only be described representative Jennifer Hamilton, as one-of-a-kind. Complete with who also attended the ceremony. a wedding cake, open bar and a Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Music

Page 8

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Karaoke Tuesday — Famous live music venue offers its patrons a chance to share the stage. 8pm, McNally’s Tavern. No cover.

Wednesday 2

Photo: courtesy of the artist

(Next Week) THE F-HOLES @ THE EXCHANGE — No matter how the name

cool band name — simple as that. And speaking of cool, these guys combine rockabilly, country and Dixieland into a high-energy roots-type sound that’s sure to get you dancing. They’ll be playing The Exchange on May 4th; tickets $10 at the door. -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback?

Text it to 306-881-8372.

Friday 27

psychedelic rock ‘n roll sound of this local trio. 9pm, O’Hanlon’s Pub. No cover.

of this band may sound to you, it’s probably not what you think. See, once upon a time, members of this fivepiece from Winnipeg were playing instruments with a lot of f-holes in them, and thought it would make a

Gary Wright w/Al Stewart — If you’ve ever seen Wayne’s World or The People vs. Larry Flynt or Toy Story 3, you’ve heard the song “Dream Weaver” before. And now the guy behind that song, Gary Wright, will be in town for a special performance. Also appearing will be Scottish singer/songwriter Al Stewart, who has been turning out incredible folk-rock music for decades. 8pm, Casino Regina. Tickets $40–45, available at the box office or online at casinoregina.com.

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.

Dan Silljer Band — This incendiary guitarist has been burning up the local scene for a decade or so. A musician’s musician, started out playing with Jason Plumb and the Willing before striking out on his own and releasing Foolish Heart — his first solo album. The album brings together different types of music — from blues to jazz, rock to soul — to create a sound that blends the past and present into one cohesive, excellent record. 10pm, McNally’s Tavern. $5 at the door.

B lack T h u n der — You don’t want to miss the heavy

Shannon Smith — With a sassy stage presence and a natural country sound, this talented musician from Calgary has opened for the likes of Johnny Reid and Lonestar. 9pm, The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD. Albert — Appearing every Friday night, come listen to Albert as he does his spinning thing.

10pm, Pure Ultra Lounge. Cover $5.

Smoke Break — Feel like taking a break this weekend? Then take a Smoke Break and check out this local band as they rock the night away. 9pm, The Sip Nightclub. No cover if there by 6pm.

Alex Runions — This Reginabased urban country rocker’s star is on the rise. In 2009 he released his self-titled debut album and since then things have been certainly been looking up. In fact, Runions has been nominated for three Saskatchewan Country Music Awards, and was a finalist in the 2011 Canadian Radio Star Competition. Come check out his heartfelt, melody-driven version of urban country music.

8pm, Whiskey Saloon. Cover $10.

Saturday 28

Chris Carlier & The Scarletts — You name it, this local musician plays it, including tenor sax, guitar, piano, percussion, clarinet and didgeridoo. And much like his ability to jump from one instrument to another, Carlier is equally at home in a host of music

Photo: courtesy of Belle Plaine

(Next Week) BELLE PLAINE @ ARTESIAN on 13 — With a voice that will stop

and through. She released her debut album, Hello From Belle Plaine, in 2010, and has since been wowing audiences with her sultry voice. She’ll be opening for Peter Katz at the Artesian on May 5th; tickets are $15 at Mysteria Gallery or at the door. -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback?

Text it to 306-881-8372.

genres. He’s an accomplished jazz musician, has been pumping out electronic tunes since 2003, and he has even wrote a symphony.

In recent months Carlier’s been playing a form of “chamber pop music” that is atmospheric, moody and thoroughly enjoyable. 8:30pm, The Club. Tickets $13 at the door.

Regina-based urban country rocker’s star is on the rise. In 2009 he released his self-titled debut album and since then things have been certainly been looking up. In fact, Runions has been nominated for three Saskatchewan Country Music Awards, and was a finalist in the 2011 Canadian Radio Star Competition. Come check out his heartfelt, melody-driven version of urban country music.

8pm, Whiskey Saloon. Cover $10.

you in your tracks, Belle Plaine (aka Melanie Hankewich) puts on a show you won’t want to miss. Born and raised in Fosston, Saskatchewan, this classically trained, jazz-educated, soulful folk musician is a prairie girl through

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, The Hookah Lounge.

Cover $5.

The Rebellion — Made up of Josh Palmer (vocals, guitar, piano), Christian Kongawi (drums, vocals) and Rylan Schultz (bass, vocals), this local act is Canada’s answer to Muse. Come check out their awesome and energetic live show.

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

Monday 30

Monday Night Jazz — Featuring ‘round midnight, lead by vocalist Bev Zizzy, the band plays popular adult contemporary and jazz tunes. 8pm, Bushwakker Brewing Company. No cover.

The Blackout City Kids — With a unique sound made from mashups on dueling guitars, this duo (Scotty J and Matt Budoloski) have taken the Canadian music scene by storm. They’re currently in the midst of a Western Canadian tour that’s going from Brandon to Banff, and beyond. 8pm, The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets $10, available at The Pump or The Tap Offsale.

Thursday 3

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.

Orange Honey w/ guests — Consisting of Jared Paton (guitar, vocals), Josh Patterson (drums), Joel Nixon (bass, vocals) and Ryan Paton (guitar,vocals), this local band will flat-out rock you. 9pm, McNally’s Tavern. Cover $5 Stephanie Thomson — Playing a subtle and engaging brand of contemporary/inspirational pop, this local musician puts on a show you might not want to miss. 9pm, The Pump Roadhouse.

Tickets TBD.

Tuesday 1

Want your show listed?

Email layout@verbnews.com!

(COMING UP) K’NAAN @ WASCANA PARK — Born Keinan Abdi Warsame in

intelligent hip-hop, K’naan’s music has earned him four Junos. He’ll be appearing along with Danny Fernandes as a part of the SaskTel Summer Invasion at Wascana Park on July 6th. Tickets are $56.96, available online at summerinvasion.ca -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback?

Text it to 306-881-8372.

Shannon Smith — With a sassy stage presence and a natural country sound, this talented musician from Calgary has opened for the likes of Johnny Reid and Lonestar. 9pm, The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD. Drewski — Doing what he does best, every Saturday night. Come on down and dance the night away with this local DJ. Pure Ultra Lounge. Cover $5.

Smoke Break — Feel like taking a break this weekend? Then take a Smoke Break and check out this local band as they rock the night away. 9pm, The Sip Nightclub. No cover if there by 6pm.

A le x R u n i o n s — T h i s

Somalia, this poet/rapper/singer/songwriter found himself living in Toronto, learning English through rap songs. He started making his own music and the rest, they say, is history. With a sound that blends reggae with conscious,

Photo: courtesy of the artist

Arts One

Page 9

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Getting Intimate With Singer Peter Katz

Photo: courtesy of the artist, Tristan Brand & Julia Reinicke

This Canadian Artist Bares All About Writing, Recording And Painting Pictures Alex J MacPherson

regina, SK — Interviewing Peter Katz is an odd experience. It feels less like a formal exchange of questions and answers, and more like a conversation. The appropriate adjective is intimate.

Or maybe human.

Katz, who recently released his fifth studio record, the ambitious Still Mind Still, is deeply concerned with intimacy.

Everything he does, from writing and recording to performing and interacting, is premised on the notion that even a great song is worthless unless it connects with an audience. This explains why he

chose to record Still Mind Still in a “As much as I’m a solo artist and I cabin in the woods. The record feels want my records to sound like me, I intimate because, well, it is intimate. also want to see the record as a me“What you’re hearing is literally dium unto itself,” he says. “In a live full takes,” Katz explains. “I’m stand- setting people hear it, they’re there, ing, singing, playing guitar. It’s all it goes by. Whereas with a record, about the intimayou want people cy and not about “I also want to see the to listen over and perfection.” record as a medium unto over again, make Still Mind Still is itself.” discoveries.” the quintessential Production -Peter Katz quality is imporbackwoods recording: an understated folk record tant, but it should never detract that shows off inspired playing and from the songs. Still Mind Still honest performances. The album represents a departure for Katz, a delivers an immediacy that would shift from storytelling to picturebe impossible to replicate with lay- painting. ered overdubs, but that is only half “I love the story songs, and I’ll the story. always write those songs,” he says.

“But there’s more than one way to write that story song, and sometimes you can also just work with images.”

Invoking Justin Vernon, the frontman for Bon Iver, Katz explains that how the words sound can be important as what they mean: “Show, don’t tell. Paint a picture and let people fill in the blanks.”

Katz is known for playing house concerts and other intimate spaces, but he says the venue isn’t important, explaining “it’s my goal to play for people.”

Understanding this is essential to understanding Peter Katz. Everything he does is centered on the importance of forging connections.

“I want to make something that is good, and I want to make something that hits people in their hearts,” admits Katz. “Part of the way to accomplish that is letting your ego and insecurity get the hell out of the way and just make something that has the potential to connect with people. At its core is something human.”

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Event Info Peter Katz

Where: The Den at the Two Twenty When: May 5 Cost: $15 in advance at Mysteria Gallery, or at the door

Jayme Stone On Breaking The Banjo Mould

Stone admires these players, but he doesn’t believe that the instruRegina, SK — Jayme Stone is a ment should be limited to a specific magnet for adjectives. genre.

But it would be too easy to de“I didn’t have those preconcepscribe the Canadian musician, the tions to begin with,” he explains. “I man who is currently transcribing didn’t grow up listening to any banBach for banjo and loves improvis- jo music at all. When I first picked ing with jazz musicians, as a unique, up the banjo at 16, I was listening to innovative, creative, refreshing, un- a wide range of styles and players. orthodox, restless experimentalist. All of it seemed amazing to me.”

The truth is much Stone studied simpler: Jayme “I happen to be someone with Béla Fleck, Stone loves mu- who feels like you could unquestionably sic. master of play all kinds of music on the “I happen banjo-driven futo be someone any instrument…” sion, and avant-Jayme Stone garde trailblazer who feels like you could play all kinds of music on Tony Trischka before embarking any instrument, provided you ap- on his own career. Besides knowing proach it in the right way,” he says. everything there is to know about “I do have some good trailblazers the instrument, Stone believes that before me who have proven that the banjo is more versatile than you can play the banjo in all styles people think. of music, and are reminding people “There’s a rhythmic drive to it, that banjo comes from a lot of dif- a percussive nature to the sound, ferent traditions.” and there’s an intricacy to all of Most people think of the banjo the picking patterns,” he explains. as a bluegrass instrument. Earl “You can play a lot of notes very Scruggs, Steve Martin and count- easily with a right hand technique less others have driven this message we call rolls. For that reason, it has a home for decades. lot of assets that make it adaptable.”

ArtsSect &C

Alex J MacPherson

Photo: courtesy of Vanessa Heins

Besides his Bach transcriptions, Stone is currently collaborating with composer Andrew Downing, who moonlights as Stone’s cello player, on a banjo concerto — a full-bore piece of chamber music.

“That came about as a result of our friendship and my growing interest in working with classical musicians,” he says. “Who knows where that will lead.”

A banjo concerto might seem extravagant, or even self-indulgent, but it’s important to remember that even Stone’s most grandiose ambitions are born from a simple desire to make music. Put another way, Stone likes classical music and decided to give it a try. And when it works out, he is humbled.

“A music festival wants to have us play in their chamber music series? Wow. I can’t believe I got away with that,” he admits.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Five Questions W

Saskatoon Rockers Talk Blurrin Alex J MacPherson

Three parts rock and one part hip hop: that’s the easy way to explain

Reform Party, one of the newest acts to emerge from the Saskatoon music scene. The truth, however, is a bit more complicated. Enver Hampton, Lévi Soulodre, and Tallus Scott form the heart of the group, and Kay the Aquanaut, a rising star in Canadian hip hop, contributes vocals. “[I]t was cool Since their forma- studio with [F tion, Reform Party getting a diffe has latched onto the idea that rules exist perspective o to be broken. Verb caught up with bassist Hampton to talk about their upcoming EP, hip hop and breaking the mould.

Alex J MacPherson: How did your band form?

Enver Hampton: Lévi and I had been doing some session work with a gentleman named Graham, who goes by the name Factor. Kay, our lead singer, was his roommate. We got to know him pretty well. Basically we got together to do Kay’s album release. Then we thought we’d be stupid if we didn’t keep playing together.

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

Pages 10, 11 Pages 10,3,11 Apr 27–May ‘12 VerbNews.com

Alex J MacPherson

With Reform Party

Photo: courtesy of Kaid Ashton

ng Genres, And The (It) Factor

AJM: Was adding hip hop into a conventional rock band a big change?

EH: It was natural. Hip hop has just been an influence for all four of us, particularly Kay. We’re trying to integrate what Kay’s doing into it, jamming through his songs trying to figure out how being in to render his hip hop songs as a live band.

Factor], Working with each erent came pretty on … songs.” other easily.

-Enver Hampton AJM: It’s easy to describe your music as fusion, and most people probably do. How do you describe it?

EH: I just see it as original music.

The bands we listen to broke away from the mould and did something a little more unique. I don’t want to toot our own horn, but it came together naturally. It does blur genres, bring a lot of influences.

When we’re trying to pitch the band to promoters we call it rock music with a ton of different influences.

The reception has been really good so far.

Soprano Boteva Joins The RSO To Tackle Mahler

AJM: Do you find the writing process difficult?

EH: It’s probably more of a challenge for Kay than the rest of us. We compose the music, get together and jam, flesh out the songs. He’ll sit there the whole time we’re practicing and write. It indirectly challenges him to try different things with his voice — on the record, the EP we’re going to release this summer, he does crazy things with his voice.

AJM: Tell me about the album.

EH: It’s six songs, an EP. We recorded it in our friend Josh Palmer’s basement. He has a great home studio setup. We got really, really good base tones for all the instruments. Factor ended up producing it — he has worked with Moka Only, Buck 65, Ded3. Mixed it sounds terrific, it was cool being in studio with him, getting a different perspective on our songs. A hip hop producer for a rock record. I just knew it was something that would turn out really special.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Centered on the idea of nature and evolution, the symphony Regina, SK — Gustav Mahler begins with the arrival of Pan, was a titan, and his towering third the Greek god of the wild. Each symphony, composed on the eve subsequent movement conveys of the twentieth century, is a par- Mahler’s reaction to a certain natuticularly stunning accomplishment. ral phenomena. If the first half of “This symphony is a complete the symphony lays the foundation, example of his reflection on the the fourth and fifth movements — metaphysical world, an evolution “What Man Tells Me” and “What of our connecthe Angels Tell tion with our na- “Mahler is one of the Me” — rise feverture,” says Emilia greatest composers. I’m ishly toward the Boteva.““We … positively excited.” crashing finale: are looking to love as the ulti-Emilia Boteva mate expression find inner peace in ourselves. He sees nature emerg- of our humanity. ing from original guilt, and we need To prepare for such a monumento find in this chaos some principle tal undertaking, Boteva spent hours where we can find our inner har- listening to recordings: “If you conmony.” tinue to listen to this symphony, you Boteva is one of the finest will find new things,” she says. “In mezzo sopranos working today.

The Bulgarian-born Canadian has appeared with opera companies across Europe and North America, including a performance with the Regina Symphony Orchestra in May, 2010. Now, she’s back to sing Mahler’s Third.

Symphony No. 3 is comprised of seven movements, each with a distinct tenor, and at almost 100 minutes it is one of the longest symphonies ever composed. But Boteva is not intimidated by its complexity or staggering length.

Mahler, she explains, was a talented conductor and understood that musicians have limits. His experience with the baton bled into his compositions, which favour the people performing them.

The real problem, she says, “is to catch the idea, to catch the atmosphere, to use every word.” This is easier said than done. Mahler’s symphonies are grounded in philosophy and steeped in his own view of humanity. He knew this, of course, and strove to reward patience and openness. For all of its complexity, the third is far from inaccessible.

Event Info

Reform Party Where: The Exchange When: May 5, 10pm Cost: $10

Jayme Stone

Where: Creative City Centre When: May 4 Cost: $10 at the door

RSO Big Finale

Where: Conexus Arts Centre When: May 5th Cost: $34.50+ @ Admission.com Want some coverage for your upcoming event? Email layout@verbnews.com ASAP!

Photo: courtesy of Lane Dorsey

every [recording] I find how people see his music from different angles and find different things to say.”

“Mahler is one of the greatest composers,” she declares. “I’m positively excited.”

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Food

Page 12

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Cucumbers are a cool, refreshing snack in the summertime, and are enjoyed year round all around the globe.

These crisp bites are more than fresh; they are full of healthy facts.

Cucumbers are actually ■a fruit, but are treated like a vegetable

they are more than ■90%Because water, cucumbers don’t Cucumber cultivation ■started in India about eight

Last Straw Puts Great Food First

■ During the 17 century, the backlash against raw fruits

Jessica Bickford

contain many nutrients or calories

thousand years ago th

and vegetables relegated the cucumber to animal feed

■

If allowed to ripen and turn yellow, cucumbers become bitter and inedible

Photos: courtesy of Kendra Kuss

Albert St. Pub Brings Revamped Classics To City’s North End There is something to be said about a comfortable place you can go to have a few drinks and enjoy some classic bar food. The Last Straw Brew Pub in Regina’s

north end is all this and more, with friendly staff, plenty of seating, daily food specials and a great drink selection.

I got to try a few of their most popular dishes, starting with the mile-high corned beef on rye, served with a side of their famous lagers.

Lagers are the Last Straw’s take on potato chips, which they soak in Wheat Lager (hence the name) for a few days before deep frying them to golden, crispy perfection.

The sandwich was served on lightly toasted marble rye, which enveloped the Monterey Jack cheese, sauerkraut, and a ton of warm, juicy corned beef within. A classic blend of flavours, this mile-high masterpiece was an excellent take on a

traditional sandwich. and some white onion in a smooth Next up was Last Straw’s fish and and creamy dressing. chips. Featuring cod in a very light, The main event, though, was utdelicate beer batter, this was a pub terly fantastic, if a bit unwieldy, with staple done right. a ring of crispy The fish was “Lagers are the Last melted cheese great, very flaky Straw’s take on potato forming the skirt and moist, and chips, which they soak in around the burgthe batter didn’t er patty. The Last overp ower it s Wheat Lager…”

Straw uses AAA -Jessica Bickford Canadian sirloin fresh flavour. The thick-cut chips were well seasoned in their burgers, and the quality and crunchy on the outside, and was evident in the rich and juicy fluffy on the inside. With two pieces flavour of the meat that was not of the golden cod piled high on a overpowered by all that cheese. mound of chips, this is a great opThe burger also offered a wide tion if you’re starving. selection of the usual toppings: I finished up with the skirt lettuce, tomato, crispy bacon, tart burger, which came with a side of pickles and rich, grilled onions. All cucumber salad, a fresh little treat together, this was one mammoth featuring large slices of cucumber treat perfect for any cheese lover, and a deliciously indulgent burger.

The Last Straw has an extensive menu full of classic bar food like burgers, sandwiches and snacks, along with some inventive creations of their own.

They are possibly most well known for their steak night fundraisers, though, which book up months in advance and help raise money for any number of causes.

The Last Straw is a great little pub with a friendly atmosphere and tasty food that just happens to go very nicely with a pint.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

The Last Straw Brew Pub

Address: 127 Albert Street N. Hours: Monday 11am – 12am

Tuesday – Saturday 11am – 2am Sunday 12pm – 12am Reservations: 543-3331 LastStrawBrewPub.com

Opinion

Page 13

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Charities Should Not Be Politically Active Using Subsidies To Promote An Agenda, Whether We Agree Or Not, Is Unfair

advocacy. According to The Globe and Mail, there are approximately Regina, SK — The Harper gov- 86,000 registered charities in Canernment has come out swing- ada, 500 of which are politically ing at charities, earmarking $8 active. Theoretically, though, inmillion in the recent budget to stitutions could acquire charitable more closely monitor how these status in order to promote a pogroups operate in Canada, where litical agenda and thereby sway or their money comes from and influence the public, and we don’t what (if any) sort of politicking think that’s fair. they engage in. The move has According to the recent budbeen criticized as a direct at- get document, the $8 million will tack that singles out Canada’s be used to “improve transparency environmental groups, but we by requiring charities to provide think keeping more information tabs on chari- “Theoretically, on their political ties’ political institutions could acquire activities, includactivity makes charitable status in order ing the extent to sense. which these are But let ’s be to promote [an] agenda.” funded by foreign -Verb’s Editors sources.” This has perfectly clear: we are not advocating for a targeted had sparked some high-profile fallattack on Canada’s environmental out: David Suzuki has distanced groups. Rather, we think any chari- himself from his own organization ties that promote a political agenda because he’s worried his voice will shouldn’t be permitted a “chari- harm the foundation, and Maclean’s table” status by the government. magazine argues this move is tarThink about it: nonprofit organi- geted specifically at Tides Canada, zations receive tax subsidies from an environmental group that uses the government, part of which is foreign money to oppose projects funded from the taxes Canadians to do with the oil sands and pipepay. Charities are then free to use lines — projects in which our current the money how they choose, which government has a stake. includes advancing a political agenAnd while there are certainly da however they see fit — regard- organizations that work hard to less of whether or not the taxpayer help people without promoting a supports these political actions. political agenda, and while discusBy law, charitable organizations sions about the environment and are allowed to fork over 10 per- our impact on it are important and cent of their resources to political necessary, charities that are political The Editors of Verb

should not simultaneously be allowed to accept subsidies funded, in part, by the Canadian taxpayer.

It’s easy to get on the antiHarper train and rail against the ever-shortening leash on which he’s putting Canada’s green movement, but consider for a moment an organization whose political motivations are perhaps a little more suspect.

Aid to Women is a registered charity in Toronto. Like any other such foundation, it receives tax subsidies, and — according to its website — promises to offer “honest abortion and abortion alternatives information.”

In 2010, the Toronto Star sent a reporter posing as a pregnant woman considering an abortion to the Aid to Women agency.

There, she was given misinformation about terminating a pregnancy — that it causes breast cancer and infertility, which medical experts have dismissed — by both volunteers and paid staff.

Spreading misinformation demonstrates the organization’s own political agenda when it comes to women and their reproductive rights.

And because Aid to Women has charitable status, taxpayers — whether they would want to fund an anti-abortion group or not — are giving money to one.

So what to do? If an organization wishes to be granted charitable

David Suzuki has quit his foundation amid Harper’s recent crackdown status while also engaging in politi- we don’t think it’s fair that a charity cal activity, then they should have can use tax subsidies to promote to apply for funding like other in- their own agenda. stitutions, such as the CBC. Because Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Movies

Page Page 14PH

AprPH 27–May PH–PH, 3,‘PH ‘12 VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

The Pirates! A Fun Romp For Everyone Hugh Grant Excellent In Hilarious, Visually Stunning Claymation Adventure The Pirates!

Band of Misfits

Runtime: 88 Minutes Rated: G Adam Hawboldt Remember back when the world loved Hugh Grant?

Back in the late ‘90s/early 2000s, when his bumbling and, er, stumbling, umm, charm was on full display in movies like Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill, Bridget

Jones’s Diary and Love Actually? is a) currently in theatres, and b) After Love Actually (which, by extremely entertaining. the way, is easily one of the best Created by Aardman Animations romcoms of the past decade or — the good folks who brought you so), Grant’s roles started to dwindle Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run and down to one a year, one every two Arthur Christmas — the film stars years, one every Grant as the Pirate “[T]he use of effects in three years.

Captain, a man But in 2012, this film is nothing short who thinks himG rant has re - of phenomenal.” self the scourge emerged with of the ocean but -Adam Hawboldt who, in reality, is two films destined for market: the first, an ad- more of a bumbling halfwit than aptation of David Mitchell’s brilliant a high-seas terror. novel, Cloud Atlas.

The plot of the movie revolves The other is a stop-animation around the Pirate Captain vying movie called The Pirates! Band of for the coveted Pirate of the Year Misfits, which, if you’re wondering award — a trophy he’s tried for the past 20 years to win.

This time around, though, the competition is stiff. Up against Black Bellamy (Jeremy Piven), Cutlass Liz (Salma Hayek) and Peg-Leg Hastings (Lenny Henry), the Pirate Captain has to pull off something spectacular.

That something comes when they sink the Beagle (yes, that Beagle) and take Charles Darwin hostage. For some strange reason Darwin keeps eyeing Captain Pirates parrot.

And it turns out, the parrot isn’t a parrot at all. It’s the last remaining dodo bird.

Once this gets out the plan is as follows: bring the bird to England, avoid the pirate-hating Queen Victoria, collect money for the dodo and win the Pirate of the Year.

Sounds simple, right?

If only acquiring such a coveted prize as the Pirate of the Year was that easy.

This movie is, unquestionably, appropriate for all ages. Youngsters will cackle at the gags, action and slapstick humour. Adults British comedy will be tickled by the satire and dry, tongue-in-cheek wit.

And it’s not only the Pirate Captain who shines: he’s backed by quite the crew as well. There is the Pirate with the Scarf (Martin Freeman), who tries to keep his boss out of harebrained trouble, the Surprisingly Curvaceous Pirate (Ashley Jensen), the Pirate with Gout (Brendan Gleeson), who is dumber than a deck plank, and the Albino Pirate (Russell Tovey).

Of all of them, though, it is Grant who shines the brightest. He fits the role more than perfectly.

And he looks pretty darn good, too — the use of effects in this film

Photo: courtesy of Columbia Pictures

is nothing short of phenomenal.

In its first 3D stop motion outing, Aardman proves that an extra dimension can make their claymation images pop off the screen with style and hilarity.

So if you’re bored this week, round up your family, friends or band of pirates, and give this movie a watch. Hugh, it’s good to see you back.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Movies

Page Page 15PH

AprPH 27–May PH–PH, 3,‘PH ‘12 VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Five-Year Engagement Smart, Hilarious

Photo: courtesy of Universal Pictures

Jason Segel, Emily Blunt Shine In Witty, Thoughtful Romcom About Life, Love The Five-Year Engagement

Runtime: 125 Minutes Rated: 14A Adam Hawboldt Call it chemistry, call it a crazygood comedic collaboration, call it whatever you want.

But Jason Segel, Judd Apatow and Nicholas Stoller sure as heck know how to entertain people.

They first worked together on the cult-hit television show Undeclared. More than half a decade later they hooked up to make the hilarious Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

And now they’re back together once again.

Produced by Apatow and directed by Stoller, their new project, The Five-Year Engagement, stars Segel (who co-wrote the script with Stoller) as Tom, a rising chef on the San Francisco culinary scene. Tom is engaged to Violet (Emily Blunt), a psychological researcher who, early in the movie, is offered a fellowship at the University of Michigan.

Matters are discussed, their wedding is postponed, Tom puts the upward swing of his career on hold and the happy couple head east —with the understanding they’ll

head back to the Bay Area and get moments of hilarity, but it’s also real married after the fellowship is over. and true and utterly sincere. The Instead, Michigan turns out story, while it does have that Holto be more than either Tom or lywood sheen to it, feels like it isn’t Violet bargained for, and the re- simply catering to our base senfreshing hilarity sibilities. There’s that Bridesmaids “Segel, when he really things here we brought to the turns it on, is flat out can relate to, and typical romcom is uproarious.” they’re freaking on display here as funny!

-Adam Hawboldt well, as Tom and Pu t sim p l y : Violet navigate the ups and downs whereas most romcoms these days of postponing — and re-postponing are content to simply skim the sur— their wedding. face, The Five-Year Engagement digs Hands down, The Five-Year En- deeper. gagement is one of the funniest It opens a can of worms and comedies I’ve seen in a while. examines the stresses on actual Not only is the film razor sharp, relationships. Things like balancing not only does it have wet-your-pants careers and romance, selfishness,

regret, resentment, miscommunication and a myriad of other things.

I know all that sounds like some seriously messy life stuff, and it is.

But The Five-Year Engagement is, by no means, a serious movie.

No. Because Segel, when he really turns it on, is flat out uproarious.

Just wait until you see the deerhunting bit.

And the supporting cast — which consists of Chris Pratt (Parks and Recreation), Alison Brie (Community) and Mindy Kaling (The Office) — shines with comedic brilliance.

And on top of all that, sitting at the very heart of the movie, is the chemistry between Tom and

Violet. Together, these two are so adorable and captivating that if you don’t find yourself rooting for them to get married, your heart is probably as black and hard as a lump of coal.

Now, this isn’t to say The Five-Year Engagement is perfect. At times there’s a brief sense of “Oh, I’ve seen this somewhere before.” And with a running time of 124 minutes, it begins to wobble and shake near the end.

But for the most part, if you’re a fan of smart, heartfelt romance flicks that are as hilarious as all get out of here, then give this one a try.

It’s pure enjoyment.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Texts

Page 16

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

This Week: NHL In Saskatchewan Last week we asked what you thought about bringing the NHL to Saskatchewan, and here’s what you had to say.

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

charities promoting a political agenda? 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 Small province. A sask NHL team may cannibalize at least to some degree on gross sales of Roughriders

ticket sales and merchandise.

NHL seems unattainable even way down the line. We just don’t have enough people to make it work financially, period.

Come here nhl we need you! I know im supposed to live the riders but man some hockey would be great.

Jets to far away so bring some here!

Maybe our province should take the insane amount of money it puts towards sports and use it to support social programs, the vast number of people suffering from a lack of housing, pretty much anything else. This seems so ridiculous to me

Off Topic Re: “We Think Brothels Should Be Legalized,” Opinion page, April 13th issue

Legalizing brothels can lead various positive n negative impacts. Personally i believe,this issue must be taken very seriously.Lots of social problems can arise. As a immigrant booming city lawmakers as well as public should be careful about city ‘s brandname must not spoil. Many of human triffickers may try to involve to make easy money.Precautions should be taken to those with low incomer might attract this is a alternative tool to survive. -Hem Raj PANDEY Re: “We Think Brothels Should Be Legalized,” Opinion page, April 13th issue

re: Brothels: to all you women out there saying brothels devalue women or make them objects….. they

don’t….. that’s a sex slave. Women who work in brothels do so of their own choice, and probably enjoy it. you’re just jealous Re: “We Think Brothels Should Be Legalized,” Opinion page, April 13th issue

Hi Verb, Just so we’re clear on one of your points: it is already “law” that everyone has to claim earned income to Revenue Canada, no matter how they earned it. It is all confidential to them.

Otherwise, it is tax evasion, which is no longer confidential. So this income reporting includes escorts, call girls, street walkers, massage parlours in it, even while sex workers, in general, are in a legal “grey” area. Note: criminals such as drug dealers are also required to claim income.

Re: “We Think Brothels Should Be Legalized,” Opinion page, April 13th issue

It doesn’t matter if the sex trade is legalized or not. The women that do it and the men that pay will have to answer to God someday for every single act they have done. The moral compass of humans is decreasing by the day and it will only get worse. Everyone is becoming numb to these acts and people have to wake up before its too late.

Re: “Lickable Elevator A Tasty Treat,” Offbeat page, April 20th issue

Re: Lickable Elevator A Tasty Treat, I have read this article several times and it barely makes sense. Come on, Verb. You can write better than this.

Welllllllll now i am a both a NHL goalie and a F1 driver So does

Texts that make me a boss and not have to listien to the speed limit? I think So

everyday i have to ask young mobile adults to move on the bus to allow old and disabled persons to sitdown. where are their manners? when the school wheels out the 30 k signs early tough it out. thats a posted sign. dont blast your horn at me cuz u dont understand the law Hot pants are shorts? i think bicycles need to pay insurance and registration like motor vehicles after all they use the roads too I’m looking forward to the oil running out. The warmongers will have to go back to wind powered wars along the coastlines. Far less capacity to kill people.

YB get the hell away from all those losers who put you down so they can feel better about their loser lives.

You count are just as good and important as anyone!

Funny how right wing Intelligent Design Christian Fundamentalists

Page 17

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

suddenly become Darwinists when confronted with the disparity in our society!

I hate women who wear skimmpy clothes but get angry when men stare if you don’t want that attention don’t dress like that!

It is also my opinion that we need a look at self determination and be a example of sound policy regarding marijuana and its cost effectiveness. I dont care for being led and dictated to by intelectual inferiours such as chairman harper and his gang of like brown shirt thugs. my supervisor can Kiss. My. Ass. what a tyrant power tripper. u know ur supervisor’s wife doesnt put down when ..

PROTECT Your GIRLFRIEND Like A DAUGHTER LOVE Her Like A WIFE And RESPECT Her Like Your MOTHER. ...... Ima PROTECT Mine ;-) Labor party governments don’t like raising the minimum wage. It makes the union wages and union execs of their labor supporters look less robust.

Can’t spell STUPID without U right in the middle.

Love leaves a memory that no one can steal but sometimes it also leaves a heartache that NO ONE else can ever heal.

There’s a strong tendency among

healthcare workers to blame patients for their health problems.

Especially people with drug or obesity problems. This is pretty messed up considering the habits many of them have. This is life.

People develop health problems like this over a lifetime. This is why we have a healthcare

system! Its why healthcare workers have these high paid jobs! Its their job to look after sick people however they got like that. Blaming the sick for disease is like blaming the dead for death!

The opinions expressed on this page are not necessarily Verb’s.

Nightlife

Page 18

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Friday @ The Whiskey Saloon Venue

The Whiskey Saloon on Friday, April 20th

Location

1047 Park Street

Playing on Arrival

The Whiskey Chicks — these ladies dance on the bar and pour straight whiskey into your mouth

Music Vibe Country

Feature Deal

Frisky Whiskey Fridays — whiskey for $4.75

Popular Drink

Wiser’s Special Blend whiskey

Coming up

The Whiskey Saloon is celebrating their one year anniversary on the May long weekend, so come out and party

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

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7 5 8 4 2 3 9 6 1

You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again, dear Pisces : “Never let the opinions of others bother you.” It’s as simple as that. This week you may find yourself feeling down or disillusioned because of what someone has said, but snap out of it! Opinions, as you know full well, are like sphincters — we all have ‘em. So instead of caring what people think of you, why not concentrate more on what you think of yourself. Once you realize you rock, what others think won’t matter one iota.

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Pisces (Feb 20–Mar 20)

You’re a conscientious, hard-working person, dear Virgo. We all know that. But this week it’s okay to take your foot off the gas, so to speak. So if your thoughts stray from work and you find yourself thinking a lot about family or friends, don’t hesitate: drop what you’re doing and go spend time with the people who matter most to you. Sometimes it’s easy to take these people for granted. But this would be a good time to show others how much they really mean to you.

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Virgo (Aug 23–Sept 22)

It’s no great secret you have that special something that persuades people to follow you. But the thing is, dear Aquarius, you have to learn when to lead and when to follow. Different times call for different measures; over the next couple days, though, it’s time to take the initiative and play leader. In what? That’s not entirely clear at the moment. But if a moment (no matter how big or small) presents itself, trust your instincts. You’ll know what you need to do!

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Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19)

American clergyman and prominent abolitionist Henry Ward Beecher once quipped that, “A person without a sense of humour is like a wagon without springs — it’s jolted by every pebble in the road.”

Keep that in mind this week, dear Leo. Even if things get tough or frustrating, don’t let them get to you. You have the ability to see that proverbial silver lining, so try to find something to laugh at and turn that frown upside down. Everything else will sort itself out.

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Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22)

If idle hands are the devil’s tools, then you’ll be free from his manipulation this week, dear Capricorn, because you’ll be busier than a mosquito in a nudist colony over the next few days. Not to worry though — when you’re busy all the things that are bothering you tend to fade into the background. Second, if you’re rushing around that means you’re doing things, and (likely) accomplishing goals. So even though you may not have much free time, feel good about life.

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Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19)

This is not the best week to embrace your inner couch potato, dear Cancer.

Instead, get out and be active. But don’t limit yourself to a single option: try as many different things as possible. Visit a gym, go for a jog outside, take a walk in the country, play basketball, whatever — just get out and do as much as you can.

Not only is it good for your body, but it will also give you an abundance of mental energy, which will help you smooth out any bumpy areas in the near future.

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Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22)

We spend most of our time trying to stay afloat in the ever-flowing current of the passing present. The here-and-now usually takes centre stage, but this week, dear Sagittarius, try your darnedest to escape the current and do some reflecting.

If you want to take a walk down Memory Lane, fine. We all have to get in touch with the past from time to time. And if you want to look ahead to the coming months, that’s fine, too. Make the choice that’s best for you.

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Sagittarius (Nov 23–Dec 21)

This week you may find a renewed zest for life, dear Gemini, so why don’t you let the good times roll! Throw caution to the wind and seize the clichéd day. Make wishes, laugh for no reason, take a shot at something you previously thought was impossible. You may succeed, you may fail. But even if you fall short, it won’t bother you. Instead of being devastated, it’ll be one of those “live, learn and move on” kind of deals.

This is going to be a good one.

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Gemini (May 21–Jun 20)

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Remember in Days of Thunder when Nicole Kidman’s character tells Tom Cruise that “control is an illusion … nobody knows what’s gonna happen: not on a freeway, not in an airplane, not inside our own bodies and certainly not on a racetrack with 40 other infantile egomaniacs.” Well, she was on to something. This week you might want to be in control, but it’s probably best to just sit back and let life unfold as it’s supposed to. There are bigger forces than you at work here.

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Scorpio (Oct 24–Nov 22)

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If you’ve been coping with quite a bit of stress lately, there’s good news on the horizon: the choppy waters you’ve been floating upon for the last little while are about to smooth out during the course of this week. And that’s certainly a good thing, dear Taurus. And what’s even better, the strength you acquired from dealing with these trials will serve you well over the next few days. You’ll feel balanced and on point in all aspects of your life.

Have you recently achieved a goal of yours, dear Libra? If so, take a minute and bask in your success. It’s okay to be proud when you accomplish something, that’s natural. That said, if you don’t feel as though you’ve been getting things done like you could, maybe it’s time to start setting and striving towards some new goals. Life is short, make the most of it. And if you fall while reaching for the stars, it ain’t no thing. Just dust yourself off and keep trying.

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Taurus (Apr 20–May 20)

Libra (Sept 23–Oct 23)

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It would be wise of you to pay careful attention this week, dear Aries. Not just to what your heart and intuition are telling you, but to everything around you. The key word here is careful — a lot of times we listen to people, but don’t really hear or register what they’re saying. This week try to be present in conversations with others. If you truly pay attention to others they’ll open up and share things with you that could change your perception of the world around you.

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Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19)

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Horoscopes

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com 7 2 1 4 5 3 9 6 8

Time Out

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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.

7

4

1 4 3

8

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

9

1

3 2