Verb Issue R20 (March 23-29, 2012)

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Mar 23–29, 2012 • Pass it on

Regina A Great Place To Live

City Ranked Fifth Best In Canada P3

Shane Koyzcan

Verb

Canadian Poet Lays It All On The Line P10

The Hunger Games

Lawrence Superb In Sci-Fi Thriller P15

Panda Poo Tea

Hot Beverage Costs $210 Per Cup P7

Bahamas Canadian Rocker Perfects Stripped-Down Sound P9

Photo: courtesy of Dave Gillespie

Section Local Page 2

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

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Fox Valley Assists Regina Families In Crisis

New Program Offers Help With Many Issues, From Supervision To Addiction Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — Families in Regina now have a crisis management service to turn to at any time, day or night.

Fox Valley Counselling Services Inc., fueled by $439,000 in operational funding from the Ministry of Social Services, is a non-profit organization that has just opened its doors to provide intensive inhome support for families in crisis.

The first of its kind in Regina, “programs like Fox Valley are part of an overall initiative to transform the child welfare system to provide better supports that keep more

families together,” states the Min- support program, is meant to proistry. vide services for families with chil“This new location will allow Fox dren at risk of coming into care [with Valley to provide an Intensive In- the Ministry of Social Services].”

Home Support Program in Regina According to Fox, the program that will respond to the needs of staff are equipped to deal with a families in crisis, wide array of iswith the goal of “We will now be able to … sues, from meals addressing child when appropriate, allow and supervision safety while re- more children to remain to addiction. ducing the numFox characterber of children re- with their family.” izes the program -Keith Pratt as “emergency moved from their homes,” Social Services Minister intervention and prevention” — a June Draude said in a news release. short term solution to an immediMark Fox, executive director ate problem. of Fox Valley Counselling, says Program staff will work with “this program, an intensive family families for between one and six weeks. After six weeks have elapsed, families will be referred to other programs with longer-term supports in place.

Fox Valley employs a project coordinator and four intensive family support workers who will work on an eight-hour shift cycle, meaning someone is available at all times.

The organization also has elders available to provide counselling and therapy. Fox expects that the program will be running at full capacity “at the end of May or the beginning of June.”

“This funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to working in partnership with First Nations and Métis families,” says Keith Pratt, chairman of Fox Valley Counselling Inc., in a news release.

“We will now be able to help more families in crisis and, when appropriate, allow more children to remain with their family.”

Bob Neufeldt, director of community service delivery with Social Services, says “our intent is for this to be an ongoing partnership.

“We really want to provide another tool [for] after-hours service,” he continues. “Children at the end of the day want to be with their families. If we can support that bond … and make sure parents can thrive and make sure their children are safe — that’s when we’re doing a good job.”

Danielle Chartier, opposition social services critic, says she is glad to see some support put into place for the Fox Valley programming.

But, she writes in an e-mail, “[l]et’s go beyond this one snapshot — let’s look at the big picture for these kids. Achieving a reliable, comprehensive system to help children in crisis should be the goal

and the quiet, everyday work of the social services ministry. We’d like to see [Social Services] address that big picture before applauding themselves for providing some funding to Fox Valley.”

Fox Valley Counselling is located at 2060 Broad Street, south of Victoria Avenue. More information can be found at Fox Valley’s website, www.foxxvalley.com.

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Section Local Page 3

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

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It’s Great To Live In QC Photo: courtesy of Nouspique

Regina Breaks Top 5 In National Ranking List Alex J MacPherson

“We have a lot of great opportunities, a lot of great people [in Regina, SK — Regina has Saskatchewan], and a great story cracked the top five in Money- that we need to tell,” he continues.

Sense magazine’s list of the best “I think it’s awesome.” places to live in Canada.

Councillor Michael Fougere Each year MoneySense, a national agrees. financial magazine, ranks Canadian “It’s indicative of advances we’ve cities based on a number of data- had in Saskatchewan and in Redriven categories. Ottawa-Gatineau gina over the past couple of years,” topped the list, with Burlington, Fougere explains.

Kingston and Halifax not far behind, “We have, by the same criteria, but this year saw jumped signifiRegina jump eigh- “We have a lot of great cantly since the teen places, from opportunities [and] a lot last time, so it just 23rd to fifth. Swift of great people…” shows that the Current posted quality of life here -Wade Murray is really fantastic.” the second-best Saskatchewan showing, coming “We’ve known that as a city for in 24th, and Saskatoon fell fifteen a long time,” he continues. “Now places to 30th. we’re seeing some objective analy“Most notably, western cities like sis to demonstrate [this]. It’s a posiRegina and Red Deer pole-vaulted tive for us.” up the list, fuelled by economic MoneySense assembles its rankgrowth—a trend that impacted ing by dealing out points in 22 dataSaskatchewan and Alberta cities driven categories. One hundred and generally,” MoneySense reports. five points are up for grabs, and Mayor Pat Fiacco was out of each category is weighted based the country and unavailable for on its relative importance. Employcomment, but city councillor Wade ment statistics, for example, are Murray admits he is pleased with worth a maximum of ten points, the results. crime and transit five each, and “I think anything that happens sales taxes a single point. [that is] positive in one community Other categories include popuis a reflection of the province in lation growth (10 points), housing general,” says Murray.

(15 points), weather (18 points split “I think we’re all in this thing between precipitation, number of together; we’re far too small to op- wet days and days below 0°), and erate in our own little silos.” unemployment (10 points).

Five bonus points are handed out based on the number of people employed in the arts, sport, culture and recreation. “[T]he top-rated cities aren’t perfect or even close to it in any category,” MoneySense reports.

“They are, however, above average in most categories, resulting in an overall high standard of living.”

Regina scored well in a number of categories, topping the chart in population growth and landing in the top ten in terms of unemployment and provincial sales taxes. The city was prevented from climbing higher by lacklustre scores in crime severity, total crime, violent crime and commuters who walk or cycle.

Fougere says making the city more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists “is a priority,” but notes that it is also “a work in progress.”

Murray and Fougere gesture to the Regina Police Service’s efforts to reduce crime, and Fourgere says “comparing our own rates over the past ten years to fifteen years, we have seen a decrease.”

But, Fougere admits, “every urban centre has issues with crime, [and reducing it] is a very complex process.”

Ultimately, the magazine says the rankings are not perfect: “we can’t sum up everyone’s individual experiences in the places they’ve chosen to call home.”

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Section Global

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Geography Affects Your Sleep Adam Hawboldt

and body mass index,” lead author Dr. Michael Grandner tells 24/7 Wall Philadelphia, Pa — Where you St. live can have an impact on how According to the report, nearly well you sleep, according to new one-quarter of adults polled in Arresearch. kansas and Louisiana had problems That said, if you are desperately with daytime fatigue. That number in need of sleep, you probably don’t jumped to one-third in both West want to move to America’s “Deep Virginia and Mississippi. What’s South.” more, nearly 26 percent of folks in Scientists from the University West Virginia reported poor sleep of Pennsylvania Centre for Sleep patterns. and Circadian Neurobiology examWhen the data is considered in ined sleep disturbance and daytime comparison to the 17 percent of sleep deprivation in order to de- adults in Minnesota who have sleep termine if geograissues, maybe the phy has anything “Regional differences stereotype of the to do with sleep in sleep disturbance sleepy south may quality. true after all. could be explained by … be Furthermore, Turns out, it latitude/longitude…” does. within the six -Dr. Michael Grandner sleep-deprived Southerners had the most problems falling Southern states, three of them asleep, staying asleep and feeling had the highest obesity rates in tired throughout the day. the country, and all six were among “Regional differences in sleep the top 11 states with the highest disturbance could be explained by a smoking rates among adults. number of factors, the strongest of Even after accounting for weathwhich being differences in mental er, day length and health, Grandner and physical health, healthcare ac- notes that Southerners were still cess, smoking, latitude/longitude more negatively affected.

“The take home message from this study is that different regions of the country sleep better than others,” he says.

“We should begin to use this data to track patterns of poor sleep and try to understand why these patterns occur,” he continues.

“Sleep is such an important part of overall health, we need to do everything we can to help give a good night’s sleep to those in the highest-risk regions.”

The data for the study was collected from a telephone survey of 157,319 randomly chosen adults from 33 states.

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Global At A Glance robo-jellyfish — The world’s first robot jellyfish is being developed by U.S. Navy-backed research. The Robojelly mimics the actions of real jellyfish and uses the limitless energy of sea water to power its movements. “To our

knowledge this is the first successful powering of an underwater robot using external hydrogen as a fuel source,” says Yonas Tadesse, an Ethiopian-born mechanical engineer at Virginia Tech.

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Facebook Ups Narcissism More ‘Friends’ Linked To Vain Behaviour: Study Adam Hawboldt

Macomb, Il — How many friends do you have on Facebook?

If you have a lot, chances are you’re somewhat of an aggressive narcissist.

In a new groundbreaking study, researchers have established a direct correlation between the number of “friends” a person has on Facebook, and how much of a “socially disruptive” vain individual he or she is.

The study, called Narcissism on Facebook: Self-promotional and anti-social behavior, was conducted Christopher J. Carpenter.

“If Facebook is to be a place where people go to repair their damaged ego and seek social support, it is vitally important to discover the potentially negative

“Ideally, people will engage in pro-social Facebooking rather than anti-social me-booking.”

-Christopher Carpenter communication one might find on Facebook and the kinds of people likely to engage in them,” says Carpenter in his study.

“Ideally, people will engage in pro-social Facebooking rather than anti-social me-booking.”

Designed to identify these “socially disruptive” personalities on Facebook, researchers at Western Illinois University surveyed 294 students between the ages 18–65 who were active in this form of social media. These volunteers were given questionnaires about their use of Facebook and were also asked questions that assessed their levels of two forms of narcissism — grandiose exhibitions (GE) and entitlement/exploitativeness (EE).

Turns out, people who scored highest in these two areas had more Facebook friends, tagged themselves in pictures and posts more often, were most likely to take offence to derogatory comments made about them, and updated their newsfeeds more regularly.

Not only that, they were likelier to accept friend requests from complete strangers.

According to Carpenter’s study, Facebook “offers a gateway for hundreds of shallow relationships and emotionally detached

communication” for the average narcissist.

“In general, the ‘dark side’ of Facebook requires more research in order to better understand

Facebook’s socially beneficial and harmful aspects in order to enhance the former and curtail the latter,” says Carpenter.

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Section Global

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Bears’ Power May Heal Humans Adam Hawboldt

Distracted Minds Sharper Daydreamers Mentally Manage More Information Adam Hawboldt

MADISON, WI — Is your kid absent minded? Head always in the clouds?

If so, a new study says that may very well mean he or she is able to mentally manipulate a lot of information at a single given time,.

These findings illustrate, for the first time, a direct correlation between wandering minds and intelligence.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have found that people who are constantly distracted actually have more “working memory,” and thus sharper brains that can hold more information than their peers.

Participants in the study were asked to perform one of two simple tasks — either press a button in response to the appearance of certain letters on a screen or tap in time with their breath. While they were doing this researchers periodically checked to see if their minds were

Global At A Glance New Van Gogh found — A painting originally attributed to an anonymous artist has been confirmed to be by famed Impressionist painter Vincent Van Gogh. Using a new x-ray scanning technique, experts determined the hidden image of two wrestlers that was painted over with flowers are both unequivocally Van Gogh. It is now on display at the Kröeller-Müeller Museum.

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wandering. what they’re doing,” says Dr JonaAfterwards, the scientists mea- than Smallwood, of the Max Planck sured the volunteers’ working Institute for Human Cognitive and memory capacity and scored them Brain Science in Leipzig, Germany. based on their ability to recall a And although the researchers series of letters interspersed with examined children, the effects are mathematical noteworthy for questions. “[P]articipants with better adults as well.

Daniel Levin- working memory had “Our results son, the psycholo- ‘more mind wandering…’” suggest that the gist who led the -Adam Hawboldt sorts of planning study, says the that people do participants with better working quite often in daily life — when memory had “more mind wander- they’re on the bus, when they’re ing during these simple tasks.” cycling to work, when they’re in “What this study seems to sug- the shower — are probably supgest is that, when circumstances ported by working memory,” states for the task aren’t very difficult, Smallwood. “Their brains are trying people who have additional work- to allocate resources to the most ing memory resources deploy them pressing problems.” to think about things other than Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

not we [cleaned them], sutured the areas or administered antibiotics.”

Minneapolis, MN — Black The team released their findbears are amazingly able to heal ings after chasing and monitoring serious wounds while hibernating, 1,000 black bears in Minnesota for researchers have discovered, which 25 years. could have exciting implications for “It seems so surprising to us that human medicine. their wounds would heal so well U.S. medical researchers have and so completely when they’re found that when black bears hiber- hibernating and their metabolism nate, their wounds heal with almost is slowed down,” researcher David no scarring or infection whatsoever, Garshelis, of the University of Mindespite their signesota, tells BBC nificantly lowered “[T]heir findings could Nature. heartbeat. “ They sit in help improve human “We identified healing…” the den for six a few animals months and don’t -Adam Hawboldt lose any appreciaeach year with injuries resulting from gunshots ble muscle or bone mass, so I guess or arrows from hunters, [or] bite this healing is another adaptation.” marks from other bears or predaAnd while scientists aren’t extors,” wrote the researchers in their actly sure how the bears heal while paper. their body temperature, heart rate “These wounds were considered and metabolism are reduced, they to have been incurred some time hope to eventually figure it all out. before the bears denned, and were If they do, these scientists beoften infected or inflamed,” they lieve that their findings could help continue. improve human healing — espe“Yet typically, when we re- cially slow-healing and infectionvisited bears in their dens a few prone wounds in elderly, diabetic months later, most wounds had or malnourished patients. completely resolved, whether or Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Feature

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Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Art, Music ‘Fiesta’ Benefits Dog Shelter

2nd Annual Fundraiser Offers Eclectic Evening Featuring Local Artists, Musicians Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — A group of Regina artists and musicians are throwing an enormous, art-themed fundraiser to raise money for a local charity.

The second annual Femme Fatale Skull and Lady Art Show and Auction Music Fiesta is a splendidlynamed event that supports the Bright Eyes Dog Rescue. Founded by local tattoo artist B.J. Zieger, the event gives local artists and bands an opportunity to showcase their work for the public while raising money for a local charity.

“As much as I could use the money, someone else could use it more,” muses Zieger. “I just thought, what can I do to do something good? I know tons of artists and tons of musicians. Why not try to get a bunch of them together to raise some money?”

The inaugural event raised about $1,000 for the Humane Society.

This year profits will go to Bright Eyes Dog Rescue because, Zieger explains, “the Humane Society gets tons of publicity and tons of help. [This year] I wanted to do it for something different. My goal is the same, $1,000, but the more the better. I’m not trying to put too much pressure on it or overhype it; I want to have a good night and raise some money for a good cause.”

Zieger is well connected in the arts scene, and was able to recruit a number of close friends to participate. He expects a wide range of art will be on display, from traditional oils and acrylics to forms that are less well-known.

“It’s going to be really eclectic,” he laughs.

Zieger is focused on organizing the artistic side of the event; the musical component will be run by Roman Corkery, a fixture of the local metal scene who was more than happy to participate.

Corkery plays in Digital Doomz“I’ve always been completely day, a hybrid rap-metal group that is appalled by violence [toward ani- quickly gaining momentum. Other mals]. It’s good bands on the bill on a human level “As much as I could use are Psychotic Garbecause I love the money, someone else dening, Celestial animals, [and] on could use it more.”

Machine and a social level beNone Shall Sleep -B.J. Zieger Tonight. cause it’s good for big, scary tattoo guys to break the “Regina is a small place and it’s image,” Corkery laughs. “There’s a nice that we can have a rock band, a ton of injured animals out there, death metal group, a rap group and and it’s great if you can help even a rap death metal hybrid — which one.” is us — sharing the same stage,” he

Photo: courtesy of Femme Fatale Skull & Lady Art Show and Auction Musical Fiesta

states. “It’s a nice way to win over fans who are not exposed to all those different styles.”

The event promises to give local artists and bands some muchneeded exposure and to publicize a movement that is still regarded by some as countercultural. But the real beneficiaries are the Bright Eyes dogs.

“It’s nice to see people still care about that,” says Corkery. “Plus it’s a good party.”

Bright Eyes Dog Rescue is a

Regina charity dedicated to rescuing dogs from poor or unlivable situations. The staff work with a network of foster families to care for rescued animals until stable, long-term homes can be found for them.

“It was something we were lacking here in the city,” says founder Jamey Parker. “The options here were really limited.”

Parker started the charity two years ago. She is impressed with how the project has grown and

expanded.

“I really like to see a lot of the community being involved,” she says.

“What we do, we do for the community.”

The Exchange will be hosting the Femme Fatale Skull and Lady Art Show and Auction Music Fiesta on March 30th; tickets are $10 in advance, available at Planet Caravan Tattoo and Vintage Vinyl, or $15 at the door.

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Offbeat

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Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Rejected Flies Cope With Booze Adam Hawboldt,

offered their normal food or a version of their food infused with 15 San Fransisco, CA — As it percent alcohol. The result? turns out, people aren’t the only The mated males avoided the alones who crave booze in times of cohol-laced food; the rejected ones trouble and rejection. went on a bender — so to speak.

University of California, San Fran- The reason for this, according to recisco researches searchers, is that have suggested “[S]exually frustrated alcohol stimulates that sexually frus- male fruit flies tend to flies’ brains as a trated male fruit drink more alcohol…” reward similar to flies tend to drink the stimulation -Adam Hawboldt gained from sexmore alcohol than those who have been accepted as ual conquest. mates.

“It is thought that reward sysMale flies were placed with five tems evolved to reinforce bevirgin females that were open to haviours that are important,” Dr their sexual advances; in another Shohat-Ophir told BBC News. box, males were locked in with feThere is no word on whether any males who had already mated and of the rejected male flies signed up rejected their advances. for an AA program.

Afterwards the male flies were Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Panda Poo Tea Unveiled

Beverage Fetches Steep Price At $210 Per Cup Adam Hawboldt

Sichuan, china — A Chinese entrepreneur has created the most expensive tea in the world — made partially with panda poop.

The beverage costs about $210 per cup. An Yanshi is the mastermind behind this new concoction.

The tea leaves, which are grown in the mountains of Ya’an in the Sichuan province, are fertilized with tons of panda dung. “[The pandas] are like a machine that is churning out organic fertilizer,” says Yanshi. “I just want to convey to the people of the world

the message of turning waste into nutrient-rich soil for his teas. something useful, and the culture “They keep eating and they keep of recycling and using organic fertil- producing feces,” says Yanshi. izers.”

The first 50 The dung is “I thank heaven … for grams lots of the p r o d u c e d b y blessing us with this panda dung tea bears that live at environmental panda hit the market at nearby breeding around $3,500. centres. It’s be- tea.”

A portion of the -An Yanshi profits will to an lieved that these pandas, who eat a strict diet of environmental fund and Yansi has wild bamboo, absorb roughly 30 assured Reuters that the price will percent of the nutrients from their drop. Still, he is quite happy with food. Which mathematically means his creation. they crap out about 70 percent “I thank heaven and earth for of the bamboo’s nutrients. So blessing us with this environmental by using their excrement Yanshi panda tea,” he muses. has, in effect, created an excellent Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

101-Year-Old Paraglides, Lands ‘Oldest’ Record Adam Hawboldt

Salt Lake City, UT — You’re never too old to try something new — just ask Mary Hardison.

The 101-year-old Utah woman

Offbeat At A Glance anti-jogging cat — 19-year-old Seth Franco has been ticketed after he brought his cat to Waneka Lake Park to take it for a run. The feline refused, so Franco strapped the cat’s leash to a rock and proceeded on, according to the Boulder Daily Camera. The animal was uninjured and returned to Franco.

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celebrated her birthday with a tandem paraglide ride. And, by doing so, entered the Guinness Book of World Records as the “Oldest Female to Paraglide Tandem.”

And while the instructor even went so far as including a few tricks in the flight, Hardison was never afraid. Her family, though, told a different story.

“My initial reaction was ‘No, you can’t let her,’” granddaughter Diane Swain told KSL-TV in Salt Lake City.

But Hardison was not to be deterred.

And after it was over, when asked by Guinness if she was nervous about the adventure, Hardison

told them not at all, a lot of other people have gone paragliding before her.

“If it’s safe for them, then it’s safe for me,” she said.

When it comes to daring feats and adrenaline-infused adventures, for Hardison fear rarely enters the equation.

To celebrate her 90th birthday, she went to Disneyland and rode all the adult rides — hoops and loops and vertical drops be damned.

“My desire is for the elderly to keep on going. Do things as long as they are physically able,” she said at the time.

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Music

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Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com amped up the funny. Whether he’s singing about a fist fight between Ernie and Bert on Sesame Street or how a McDonald’s coupon day is the “Best Day Ever,” Johnston never fails to entertain. The Flying Fox and the Hunter Gatherers will also be playing. 9pm, O’Hanlon’s Pub. No cover.

Eye 2 Eye — You name it, this local quartet can play it, so put on your dancing shoes and come on down for a good old-fashioned party. 9pm, The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD.

(Next Week) CATIE ST. GERMAIN @ PUMP ROADHOUSE — Granddaugh-

ter of Canadian Country Music Hall of Famer Ray St. Germain, this young musician from Winnipeg came by her musical talents honestly. She wrote her first song at the age of 10 and recorded her first tune, “Slow Torture,”

Friday 23

Northcote — The project of Saskatchewan singer/songwriter Matt Goud, Northcote offers a fresh and unique commentary on life. With poignant, minimalist lyrics and definite depth of sound, Goud’s music is haunting, thoughtful and fun. 8pm, Artesian on 13th. Tickets $10, available at Mysteria Gallery or the door.

Pitbull — Born Armando Christian Pérez, this rapper/record producer from Miami is in the middle of his PlanetPit World Tour with special guest Flo Rida.

On his latest album Planet Pit, he collaborated with the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Ne-Yo and T-Pain. Definitely a show worth checking out. 7:30pm, Brandt Centre. Tickets $58–$73 (Ticketmaster).

Brent Tyler — These two singers/ songwriters from Calgary are teaming up to give you soulful songs in an aggressive and engaging acoustic style.

8pm, Creative City Centre. Cover $10.

Maddigans — Coming at you straight from Edmonton, this four-piece has

Photo: courtesy of the artist

when she was 13. At 19 years of age, Catie is a gifted singer/songwriter who fronts a bad called Vaga Blonde; she’ll be playing a mixture of original songs along with rock and country covers at the Pump from March 29th until the 31st.

Cover $5. -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback?

Text it to 306-881-8372. honed its sound on the road, touring both Canada and the U.S., and now they’re bringing their awesome punk/ pop tunes to Regina. Also appearing will be Perfect Punchline and The Social Threat. 7pm, The Exchange. Tickets $10 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.

The Montagues — Do classic rock covers from the ‘70s and 80‘s interest you? If so, you should probably come check out this local act. They’re pretty darn good. 9pm, McNally’s Tavern. Cover $5.

B.A. Johnston — If you haven’t heard this Hamilton rocker, you better brace yourself for a serious dose of hilarity.

And with his latest album, Hi Dudes!, this alternative acoustic musician has

Albert — Appearing every Friday night, come listen to Albert as he does his spinning thing. 10pm, Pure Ultra Lounge. Cover $5.

Rouser — Come check out this local hard rockin’ trio as they cover everything from Ozzy Osbourne to Steve Earle. 10pm, The Sip. Tickets TBD. Chris Henderson- Originally from Estevan, this talented country singer/ songwriter has received numerous Saskatchewan Country Music Award nominations and, in 2010, was named “Saskatchewan’s Next Big Thing” in a contest sponsored by Big Dog 92.7 in Regina. Come check him out. 8pm, Whiskey Saloon. Cover $10.

Saturday 24

Jenny Berkel, Kayla Luky and more — Both Berkel and Luky have put on two of the most memorable shows in recent memory at the Creative City Centre, so why not have these two talented musicians back — at the same time? Berkel is from Ontario and plays a haunting, personal style of music; Luky is an alt-county singer/songwriter from Manitoba. 8pm, Creative City Centre.

Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

The Pretty Reckless — With a seductive, raspy voice and a band that kicks a whole heap of no-holds-barred ass, it seems that Taylor Momsen (of Gossip Girl fame) is much more rocker than she is actor. Don’t believe me?

Check out her and her alt-rock band.

7pm, The Exchange. Tickets $16 ($41 for VIP package), available at www. unionevents.com 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 Montagues — Do classic rock covers from the ‘70s and 80‘s interest you? If so, you should probably come check out this local act. They’re pretty darn good. 9pm, McNally’s Tavern. Cover $5.

(COMING UP) REVEREND HORTON HEAT @ The EXCHANGE — Playing a

self-described blend of “country-fed punkabilly,” this talented musician (aka Jim Heath) is no stranger to success. Not only has Heath and his band — Jimbo Wallace and Paul Simmons — amassed a serious cult following, but they have

Photo: courtesy of the artist

also had songs featured in commercials, TV shows and video games. This Dallasbased act has long been garnering acclaim for their energetic and infectious sound. Come check ‘em out at The Exchange on May 10th; tickets are $33.50 (ticketedge.ca). -Adam Hawboldt.

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Eye 2 Eye –You name it, this local quartet can play it. So put on your dancing shoes and come on down for a good old-fashion party. 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.

Rouser — Come check out this local

Photo: courtesy of the artist

(N e x t W e e k ) T H E O H W E L L S @ O’HANLON’s Pub — It all started when

this Vancouver-based band — now consisting of Jickling, Kirby Bobyk, Sam Dick, Chris King and Ben Weymouth — is playing the kind of catchy indie-pop music you just have to hear. They’ll be at O’Hanlon’s on April 3rd; no cover.

-Adam Hawboldt. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

hard rockin’ trio as they cover everything from Ozzy Osbourne to Steve Earle. 10pm, The Sip. Tickets TBD

Wednesday 28

Sarah Jickling was in Grade 11. Over the winter break this then-super shy teen recorded a few songs with the help of Garage Band and made a Myspace page, which generated some buzz at school. Flash forward a few years and

Chris Henderson- Originally from Estevan, this talented country singer/ songwriter has received numerous Saskatchewan Country Music Award nominations and, in 2010, was named “Saskatchewan’s Next Big Thing” in a contest sponsored by Big Dog 92.7 in Regina. Come check him out. 8pm, Whiskey Saloon. Cover $10.

Sunday 25

Buckman Coe w/Brent Nielsen — B.C.’s own, Buckman Coe will be teaming up with local talent Brent Nielsen to put on a roots/blues/folk show you won’t want to miss. 8pm, Creative City Centre. Tickets $10 at the door.

Monday 26

Monday Night Jazz and Blues — Featuring Uptown Jazz and great jazz standards from a talented trio. 8pm, Bushwakker Brewing Company. No cover.

Tuesday 27

JJ Voss — With more than 15 years of live stage performances under his belt buckle, this local country/Americana/ folk rock singer based out of Regina has come by his inspired stage presence honestly. Bring along your instruments and join in for an open-mic session afterwards. 8:30pm, Bocados. No cover.

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

The Screaming Daisies — Come check out this local trio as they fuse altrock with psychedelic pop, add a dose of awesome lyrics and a whole heap of musicianship, to create an awesome and engaging show. Also appearing will be the always awesome Daytrip.

9pm, O’Hanlon’s Pub. No cover.

Wednesday Night Folk — Featuring Andrew and Zachary Smith, this talented father-son duo from Kelowna will be playing world-class tap-style guitar. 9pm, Bushwakker Brewing Company. No cover

John K Samson — Singer/songwriter of the critically acclaimed Weakerthans, this musician from Winnipeg has just released his first full-length solo album, entitled Provincial. With a distinct voice and lyrics that will resonate long after the show is over, Samson is a musician you won’t want to miss. 7:30pm, The Exchange. Tickets $17 advance, $22 at the door. Advance tickets available at the Globe Theatre Box Office.

Thursday 29

Sak e we wak Story te lle r ’s Festival: Desmond Merasty & Anthony Valentine, Jacob Pratt — Merasty and Valentine are two young beat and hip hop artists from Sandy Bay. As for Pratt, he hails from Cote First Nations, is a pow-wow/ hoop dancer who is also and award winning flue player. 8pm, Artesian on 13th. Cover TBD. 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.

Catie St. Germain — Granddaughter of Canadian Country Music Hall of Famer Ray St. Germain, this young musician from Winnipeg came by her musical talents honestly. She wrote her first song at the age of 10, and recorded her first tune “Slow Torture” when she was 13. She’ll be playing a mixture of original songs along with your favourite country and rock covers.

9pm, The Pump Roadhouse. Tickets TBD.

Want your show listed?

Email layout@verbnews.com!

Arts One

Page 9

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Bahamas Explores Being Present In Music

Photos: courtesy of the artist

Canadian Rocker Perfects Stripped-Down Sound On Latest Album Barchords Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — Afie Jurvanen likes old guitars because they are difficult to play.

“I suppose I just feel like you just try and get to the essence of something,” he explains. “In my case, complicated effects, special effects, mixing technology and editing — all that stuff is really great, and someday I’ll put it to use in a really great way, but for me I just find it gets in the way.”

Before he emerged under the nom de plume Bahamas with a battered pink Stratocaster and a bunch of beat-up Harmony electrics, Jurvanen worked extensively with other musicians, notably Feist, and countless hours on the road gave him time to think about the music he wanted to make. Born from an impromptu studio session, 2009’s sparse and charming Pink Strat emerged as a coherent whole only after most of the songs had been tracked. His latest record, Barchords,continues to examine themes and ideas he first explored with Pink Strat.

“I think the first record definitely food or making love or f***ing anybenefitted from me being some- thing, I want to be present. It seems what naïve about what I was do- like a simple idea, but I feel that it’s ing, not having a clear intention, lost a lot of the time.” not having a clear goal,” Jurvanen The idea of presence is an imlaughs. “The songs and arrange- portant one. In a world increasments benefit from not being over- ingly dominated by rapid-fire thought. They are transactions and literally of the mo- “I do draw a lot of high-speed comment.” munication, it can parallels between J u r v a n e n everyday life and the be hard to make knew that replitime to enjoy the cating the spon- music I make.” raw pleasures of -Afie Jurvanen being alive. Food taneity of Pink Strat would be impossible, but he and friendship and sex have been worked hard to capture the pres- repackaged to suit our supersonic ence and resonance of his earlier lifestyles. So too has music. work on Barchords. Outlined by But Jurvanen rejects this, and simple yet unforgettable melodies, Barchords is a lesson in presence. and coloured in by Jurvanen’s bit- It sounds raw and unpolished betersweet lyrics, Barchords is an en- side other contemporary records, gaging record that reeks of impul- but shorn of studio wizardry and siveness and raw creativity. complicated technology, the record “I do draw a lot of parallels be- has a distinct appeal. tween everyday life and the music “If I’m cooking a meal I don’t I make,” he admits. tend to include twenty-five ingre“My approach to both of those dients,” Jurvanen says. things is I think being present in “I’ll use four ingredients, and be any conversation in any setting is aware of all of those ingredients the most important thing. When it and savour them all. I try to write comes to making music or making songs that are pure and direct; I

don’t want the production to get in the way.”

Barchords is a well-written album. Honed by long years on the road, Jurvanen’s ideas are extraordinarily well developed. But the record’s real strength lies in its instrumentation — or lack thereof.

Recorded with drummer Jason Tait, who also plays with The Weakerthans, and bassist Darcy Yates, Barchords is a perfect example of how three musicians say as much with silence as they do with sound.

“When people hear guitar and drums these days, they immediately think of the White Stripes or the Black Keys. I have lots of admiration for those bands, but my music doesn’t sound anything like that,” says Jurvanen. “I like the challenge of performing that way.”

“Jazz musicians have talked about the idea of space and rest,” he continues. “They’ve been talking about it for decades. It seems to me that there is this desire in pop music, this idea of hooks. It definitely works for some people, but it’s not what I gravitate to. It would be difficult for me to make

any other type of music.”

Ultimately, Jurvanen’s music reflects his desire to be himself — nothing more, nothing less. Citing singers like Neil Young and Willie Nelson, both of whom broke with convention but found success in brutal honesty, Jurvanen admits that “the hardest thing possible is to be myself on record.”

“When I was younger I played in punk bands, rock & roll bands, and had fun doing it, but I was always conscious that I [didn’t] hear my voice reflected back in a way that made sense,” he says. “You have to let go of a lot of preconceived notion … and just become a musician. Those things come easier when you’re not looking for them.”

Which is why Afie Jurvanen likes old guitars: they are difficult to play, but every note is honest.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Event Info

Bahamas

Where: The Exchange When: Mar 31 Cost: $10 (ticketedge.ca)

ArtsSect &C

Singer Alex Vissia Opens Up About New Album A Lot Less Gold Alex J MacPherson

Regina, SK — It never occurred to Alex Vissia that she would become anything other than a songwriter.

She could have chosen different paths, of course. She even tried.

But every road led her back to the guitar and the piano.

“I tried a couple of different things in college,” the Stony Plain,

“What’s happened so far has been really positive…”

-Alex Vissia Alberta singer says, “but it didn’t really work out for me. I wasn’t really interested. I finally faced the fact that I needed to continue with music.”

Vissia enrolled in Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton to study music. It was a diverse program, covering everything from jazz to classical composition.

“That opened things up and I think it just gave me a chance to see what the possibilities could be,” she states.

Photo: courtesy of the artist

Growing up immersed in folk and country, Vissia played in a band with her two sisters, first as

the Vissia Sisters, later as the Plain Janes. When the realities of time and distance caused the band to fall apart, Vissia seized the opportunity to pursue new ideas, the natural extension of her studies.

Her latest effort, the cryptic A Lot Less Gold, is the sort of album that rewards multiple listens. Readily accessible yet slow to surrender its secrets, the record offers ample opportunities for exploration — and some old fashioned rock & roll.

Marrying conventional instrumentation with novel arrangements and sophisticated ideas, A Lot Less Gold highlights Vissia’s songwriting potential.

Recorded over the summer of 2011, the record features a band comprised of Grant MacEwan alumni. Supported by musicians who shared her views, and freed from the constraints of genre and

Event Info

Shane Koyczan & the Short Story Long Where: The Artesian When: Mar 30, 2012 Cost: $15/$18 (www.artesianon13th.ca)

Alex Vissia

Where: Cathedral Village Freehouse When: Mar 31, 2012 Cost: Free!

Ace Massive

Where: Lulu Nightclub When: Apr 1, 2012 Cost: $5 at the door

Want some coverage for your upcoming event? Email layout@verbnews.com ASAP!

style, Vissia was able to mine the depths of her ability.

Inspired by an eclectic group of writers from Josh Ritter and Neko Case to Jeff Tweedy and John K. Samson, Vissia was able to channel inspiration without resorting the mimicry.

The influences are plain on A Lot Less Gold, but the voice is all Vissia.

“Sometimes songwriting is a struggle for me,” she admits, “trying to get out what I want to say and trying to have that balance between being obvious enough that someone can relate to it and at the same time not being too obvious.”

This is the problem facing all songwriters: the blurred line between the personal and the universal. Vissia’s voice is well-developed, but the singer admits that producing songs is always a struggle.

“It takes a long time to finish my songs,” she laughs. “If I feel like there’s something missing I won’t play it. Which sucks because it’s really close, but there’s something else I need to do with it.”

The endless hours cooped up with a guitar seem to have paid off for the young singer.

“What’s happened so far has been really positive, sometimes even better than I expected,” she says. “This is a really new project for me, and it’s a difficult feeling when it’s just you at the forefront.”

“I still have a lot to do,” she laughs.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Five Qs: Canadian Poet Alex J MacPherson

Shane Koyczan is a spoken word poet. In an industry dominated by cleverly packaged kitsch and recycled cliché, Koyczan creates work that is deeply, profoundly personal.

Koyczan mines his painful past for answers, and, as it is for many explorers, the journey is as important as the destination. After a moment in the international spotlight during the opening ceremonies of the 2010 “[I]t was impo Olympic Games in to go back an Vancouver, Koyczan my own archa retreated to work on a new project, a record with his band, the Short Story Long. Featuring Koyczan’s distinctive baritone, Remembrance Year is a poignant meditation on the human condition and a continuation of Koyczan’s journey of self-discovery.

Verb caught up with Koyczan to chat about archaeology, building fences and tearing them down.

Alex J. MacPherson: Why did you choose to call your new record Remembrance Year?

Shane Koyczan: I wanted it to be a museum piece, where I’m just curating an experience. Here is what’s under the display case, these are glimpses of what’s going on. It was a re-exploration of my youth and realizing that there was some beauty mixed in with a lot of the pain.

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

Pages 10, 11 Pages 10, Mar 23–29, ‘1211

VerbNews.com

Musician, Artist Ace Massive Reveals His Drive Alex J MacPherson

Shane Koyzcan

Photo: courtesy of Jhayne Holmes

Talks Laying It All On The Line

AJM: Your adolescence is a recurring theme in your work. Why is that?

SK: I think recently I realized it’s one of those things that’s shaped me into who I’ve become now. I wanted to know why that was, and so it was important for me to go back and become my own archaeologist and unearth those answers.

I certainly see why I behave the way I do now. Growing up and bullies and not having my mom and dad there — all sorts of ortant for me things that led to that and it was really nd become wondering of why aeologist…” aam I this way? Why -Shane Koyzcanz am I so damaged in this way?

AJM: Your work is blindingly selfaware. Is sharing that much of your life, your deepest and most profound reflections, with others a challenge?

SK: I realized, especially lately, that in private I put up all these walls, I put up all these fences that people have to get past, whereas on stage there’s an incredible amount of emotional nudity that comes across. Being in front of that many people and waiting to be destroyed, I just realized that there’s a stronger armour than just shutting people out. If I’m completely vulnerable, if I’m completely fragile, people are going to treat me with more delicacy than they would somebody who comes up there all bravado. When people put up

those walls they’re adding all that weight onto themselves.

AJM: Your writing is deeply personal. Tell me a bit about your writing process.

SK: I tend to start with the ending. I start with what I know I want to say about something, and then I work backwards. I create the skeleton around that and then I add in the organs and then the muscle and the tendons, and the finishing touch is the skin. By the time it’s spoken, it’s walking around and it’s alive.

AJM: You’re one of the most preeminent spoken word poets in Canada, and the form is experiencing quite the surge in popularity. Why do you think it’s such an effective medium?

SK: I think a lot of it has to do with the energy behind it. When people see that level of people being open with themselves or about themselves and telling incredibly personal stories, people want to join in. It creates that warm environment where people realize this is a safe place, and in a world of unsafe places that’s pretty remarkable. I think people went beyond wanting to be simply entertained; I think people wanted a combination of being entertained but also being enlightened, being touched, being moved. You’re going to get that in a real human experience.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Regina, SK — Gabriel Coston Stovall didn’t intend to move to Saskatchewan, it just happened.

But now the promising young electronic musician won’t go anywhere else.

Stovall, who records under the name Ace Massive, was going to school in Texas when he met his wife, who was living in Regina.

“Once I met her the birds started to fly and the whole love thing kicked in,” he laughs. “I ended up here.”

“It’s a really big blessing, and what I cherish most about coming here is that I was so used to a fast lifestyle, everything being so busy and explosive. Coming here gave me the time to slow things down and prepare my [album].”

Stovall’s debut album, The Silent Takeover, was released in November, five months after the first single “Stereophonic.” Conceived and started in Houston, and finished in Regina, the record is a reflection of Stovall’s unflagging optimism.

And Stovall has a lot to be thankful for: he lost everything to the raging floodwaters of New Orleans. He was homeless. He moved halfway across the continent with nothing catchy hooks and floor-shaking more than hope in his pocket. beats, Stovall’s record does not And all the while he continued reek of modesty. Except for the to make music with whatever was title, that is. at hand.

Named for Stovall’s apparent “My drive comes from want- reluctance to discuss his music with ing to see progfriends, The Silent ress, wanting to “In my music I try to apply Takeover came as see opportunity, the things I’ve learned a surprise to many wanting to see in life that have changed who knew him. change in a posi“When I came tive way,” he says. things for the better.” to the point of -Ace Massive recognizing that “In the culture I came from you are very blinded music was going to be my outlet, from a lot of things, bombarded my biggest outlet for expressing with a lot of things you don’t nec- myself and what I’d experienced, a essarily need. You fail to recognize lot of my friends didn’t know I was what is truly important.” doing music,” he admits.

Invoking love, compassion and “When they heard it, they were, friendship, Stovall says he keeps his like, ‘wow’,” laughs Stovall. lyrical content positive and clean.

“We’re paying attention to what we think we need,” he explains.

“Those things turn us into a person I don’t really feel we should be right now. In my music I try to apply the things I’ve learned in life that have changed things for the better.”

His lyrics may be clean, but Stovall has a knack for enormous, dirty, filthy, nasty beats — in the best possible way, of course.

Working from a home studio in a quiet corner of Regina, Stovall produced a record that rivals any club track in circulation.

Packed to overflowing with

Photo: courtesy of the artist

“When it came time to pick the name I thought what I had done was silent, done in silence. It was me taking over my life, me taking control of where I wanted to go, how I wanted to be remembered.”

“It’s fairly difficult to explain,” he continues, “but when it’s all said and done I want to be remembered as an artist. I do hip hop, but I also do singing, and try [different] styles.

I also tap into … the urban culture.”

Stovall recognizes that there will always be someone ready with a jibe, a snide remark, but that doesn’t concern him. “[Art] may seem wrong to you because it’s not connecting to you,” he says, leaving the rest unspoken.

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Food

Page 12

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

I think most of us can agree that bananas are king of the fruits when it comes to portability and mass appeal. These soft and starchy yellow fruits are not just sweet; they are full of toothsome facts.

don’t grow on ■treesBananas – they actually grow on

large flowering herbaceous plants, so the ‘trunk’ is actually just a very big stem

In Britain during WWII ■bananas were unavailable for more than five whole years, with the first shipment arriving in December of 1945

Because of their high levels ■of potassium, bananas are

naturally radioactive (but only slightly)

Casual, Cozy Dining At Rock Creek

Photos: courtesy of Kendra Kuss

East End Restaurant Boasts Bold Flavours And Diverse Dishes Jessica Bickford

The east end of Regina has been booming with new business for quite a few years now, and Rock Creek was one of the original restaurants to set up shop.

And, as more places open, this casual eatery is keeping its hold on the neighbourhood’s appetite

with both new and classic dishes, served up in a comfortably cozy atmosphere.

I kicked things off with a bang — that is with the Firecrackers starter, which consisted of jalapeños stuffed with herbed cream cheese and a jumbo shrimp wrapped in a strip of bacon. The cream cheese and jalapeño is a classic combo, and tempered the bite of the peppers with cooling creaminess, while the shrimp and bacon brought some substance to this fiery little dish.

Sticking with the seafood theme, I tried the Mixed Grill next. Served

with salmon, yellowfin tuna and It wasn’t all sea creatures for me, a skewer of Creole buttered tiger though; I also sampled the Soleprawns, this selection of seafood man Beef Short Ribs off of Rock came with wild rice pilaf and roast- Creek’s current fresh sheet. The ed vegetables.

Korean cut ribs Tuna is of ten “[T]he shrimp provided a are slow braised the star for me, kick of heat from a drizzle in barbecue sauce and it was excel- of roasted red pepper and were beautilent here as well: ful, tender and flaky, tender and wasabi sauce…” melted in your -Jessica Bickford mouth. I cannot perfectly grilled.

The salmon was lovely and light, say enough nice things about these and the shrimp provided a kick of ribs, and the fact that they come heat from a drizzle of roasted red with creamy mashed potatoes only pepper wasabi sauce that kept this made me happier. Head Chef Dadish from being too singular. vid Humble described this dish as “great comfort food that sticks to your ribs,” and although I’m sure the pun was unintended, the description certainly fits.

I finished up with Rock Creek’s banana burrito for dessert — they take a sliced banana, pecans and a bit of sweetened cream cheese, wrap it in a tortilla, deep fry it, roll it in cinnamon sugar, and serve it with ice cream and warm caramel sauce. This dish, which reminded me of an incredibly fancy churro, hit all the right notes: sweet, creamy, crispy and rich.

Humble explained that Rock Creek is a place that is “casual enough to not feel pressured showing up after work, whatever you do” and that they are striving for a “kicked up casual restaurant and bar with a diverse menu.” These two things and their great food ensures Rock Creek will be around in the east end for quite some time.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Rock Creek

Address: 3255 Quance Street Hours: Mon — Fri 11:30 AM — 10 PM

(lounge closes at 1 AM); Sat & Sun: noon ‘til 10 PM (lounge closes at 2 AM) Reservations: 586-7625

Opinion

Page 13

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Canada Should Cut Its Ties To The Queen We Believe Having A Canadian Serve As Head Of Our Country Just Makes Sense The Editors of Verb

independent country.

While Elizabeth II may be meanRegina, SK — This summer, ingful to many Canadians, they are Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate primarily an older segment of the her Diamond Jubilee, marking population who associate the royal 60 years on the throne. And we with an age that has already passed think that, when the Queen has by. finished fulfilling her royal duty, So do we even want the Queen it’s high time for Canada to cut around? For the most part, polls our ties to the monarchy. reflecting Canadians’ attitudes The monarchy is an outdated towards the monarchy reveal that relic of days gone by, a sentimental the majority of us have little to no glimmer of our past that we feel interest in the Queen and what she has no place in Canada’s present represents. or future, if Canada is to come into Any strong opinions about the her own as a country. monarchy, either for or against, are Technically, the Queen is in the minority.

Canada’s head of state, not SteHowever, a 2010 Angus Reid poll phen Harper or found that 69 perany other Prime “[T]he majority of cent of Canadians Minister, and her [Canadians] have little to would like to cut representative no interest in the Queen ties to the monin Canada is our archy, and see a governor general. and what she represents.” Canadian serving -Verb’s Editors as Canada’s head Now the Queen of course is not a tyrant, but of state, rather than the Queen. she is the head of an undemocratic The same poll discovered that institution, one that relies on, and three in ten Canadians believed is supported heavily by, enormous that after Queen Elizabeth II dies, sums of public money. we should sever our ties to the According to the Toronto Star monarchy. and QMI Agency, in 2010 CanadiOf course, dissolving our royal ans shelled out an additional $1.1 relationship will not be an easy million dollars for Ottawa’s Canada process, and would require a seDay party to mark the Queen’s visit rious constitutional amendment to the capital. The entire tour cost that is supported by the federal Canadian taxpayers $2.8 million. government and all 10 provinces.

But aside from special occasions, Canadians could either choose a maintaining our ties to the Queen popularly elected official, or else and her royal entourage still costs leave the decision up to Parliament. us.

Or, if we’re not ready to fully According to Maclean’s, in 2009 Canadians shelled out $1.53 per capita each year, which goes towards supporting the Queen in the performance of her duties when in Canada or when she is acting as Queen of Canada abroad, or towards the costs associated with the governor general and ten lieutenant governors, including travel, security, residences and ceremonies.

Now, $1.53 might not sound like much, though when you consider that Brits themselves were only paying $1.32 per capita, it seems a bit suspect.

But added together, maintaining our ties to the Queen comes with a price tag of around $40 to $50 million per year, which is a heck of a lot more.

And while the Queen is costing us in actual dollars and cents, she is also costing us in our quest to move forward and become an

break up with the Queen, we could elect our governor general, declare that person our head of state, and stay in the Commonwealth without utterly severing our ties to the monarchy.

Perhaps the Irish model is one most worth examining: they elect their presidents, who serve almost directly the same function as our governor generals, but with popular support because they have been chosen by the people. It is worth noting that there has never been a struggle between the offices of president and prime minister.

Growing pains can by difficult, but continuing our relationship with the Queen doesn’t make sense.

And while we understand that, given the Constitutional roadblock it’s likely not to happen, we still should consider moving on.

It’s not you, Elizabeth, it’s us.

And we believe that having an

actual Canadian serve as the head of our country — rather than the

Queen — just makes sense.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Movies

Page Page 14PH

MarPH 23–29, PH–PH, ‘12‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

My Week With Marilyn Absorbing Biopic Michelle Williams Luminescent In Revealing Perspective On Famed Actress My Week With Marilyn

Runtime: 101 Minutes Rated: PG Adam Hawboldt What would you do if the sexiest, most famous movie star in the entire world was, for some unfathomable reason, drawn to you?

If you’re Colin Clark, a posh little twerp from an upper-class British

family, you write a book about actress. it. No, wait. You write two books Clark, as he tells it, not only about it. became her onset confidant and In 1956, Clark (who was then proclaimed to understand Marilyn 23 years old) was working as a better than anyone, he also — like production assistant on the set damn near every other man in that of The Prince and era — fell madly the Showgirl — a “My Week with Marilyn in love with Monmovie directed is simply captivating — roe.

by Sir Laurence whether you’re a fan of So much so Olivier, starring that he decided the biggest star hers or not.” to squeeze a pair -Adam Hawboldt of memoirs out in the world at the time, Marilyn Monroe. the experience.

Monroe, who had recently marAnd it is these memoirs upon ried playwright Arthur Miller, was which director Simon Curtis’ lattrying to break out of her sex-kitten est movie, My Week with Marilyn, mould and prove she was a serious is based.

The film, which stars the effervescent Michelle Williams (Brokeback Mountain, Blue Valentine) as Monroe, is a coming-of-age story, a love story, a study of fame, a biopic and so much more.

And as a snapshot of history that captures one brief fleeting moment of Monroe’s life, My Week with Marilyn is simply captivating — whether you’re a fan of hers or not.

The essence of the film, in fact the film in its entirety, rests firmly on Williams’ shoulders and she bears the weight extraordinarily well.

From the giggle to the wiggle, from the mannerisms to the voice, from the innocence to the disturbed vulnerability and insecurity and giant ego, William absolutely nails the role.

William doesn’t just portray Marilyn, she is Marilyn.

And, as such, she more than deserved both her Golden Globe win (Actress in a Motion Picture, Comedy ) and Oscar nomination (Actress in a Leading Role).

And while the film undoubtedly belongs to Williams, the supporting cast ain’t too shabby either: with the incomparable Kenneth Branagh (Hamlet, Henry V) as Sir Laurence Olivier, the wide-eyed Eddie Redmayne (The Good Shepherd, Black Death) as Clark, Julia Ormond (Legends of the Fall) as famed actress Vivien Leigh and Dame Judi Dench (A Room with a View, Iris) playing Dame Sybile Thorndike, the supporting cast on My Week with Marilyn is nothing short of stellar.

And when you put everything together, with the actors, the story and Curtis’ skilled directorial hand, you get a pretty darned good and memorable movie.

My Week with Marilyn is not

Photo: courtesy of Entertainment Film Distributors

without its faults.

The screenplay is, at times, dull and repetitive, the story is a bit sappy, and the whole thing smacks of a blurred-around-the-edges portrayal of reality, but for the most part this biopic is a solid movie with some heart-touching moments and

a really solid sense of both itself and the characters it depicts.

My Week with Marilyn will be playing at the Regina Public Library from March 29th — April 1st; see http://www.reginalibrary.ca/ for more information.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section Movies

Page Page 15PH

MarPH 23–29, PH–PH, ‘12‘PH VerbNews.com VerbNews.com

Hunger Games Leaves You Wanting More

Photo: courtesy of Lionsgate

Jennifer Lawrence Superb In Fast-Paced Adaptation Of Sci-Fi Action Thriller The Hunger Games

Runtime: 142 Minutes Rated: PG Adam Hawboldt If you think the sci-fi action flick The Hunger Games is the second coming of Twilight, think again.

Sure, both are based on bestselling teen novels, and sure, both cast incredibly attractive young thespians as leads. And sure, both involve teenage heroines journeying deep into forests at dusk.

But that’s where the similarities end.

See, whereas Twilight has Bella Swan wandering around, brooding,

flanked by hunky werewolves and in what is currently North America, to-die-for vampires, Hunger Games Panem is a nation fractured into has Katniss Everdeen — kicking ass two distinct groups: the wealthy and taking names. (who live in The Capitol) and the Played by the sultry, Oscar-nom- poor (who are spread out into 12 inated starlet Jennifer Lawrence different districts.)

(Winter’s Bone), Katniss is everyEvery year the good folk of thing a sci-fi, epic heroine should The Capitol look deep into their be — capable, hearts, locate a emotional, hu- “[W]hen Katniss is on the speck of decency man and harder screen you [can’t] take and goodness, than a coffin nail. your eyes off of her.” and then use it But more on to force children -Adam Haawboldt from the 12 DisLawrence’s Katniss later. For the moment, let’s tricts, who are chosen by lottery, to take a step back and focus on plot. compete in The Hunger Games — a Based on Suzanne Collins’ nov- no-holds-barred battle to the death el of the same name, The Hunger that serves as a yearly reminder to Games is the first installment of a the Districts of the Capitol’s autrilogy of books that — and I’d bet thority. the farm and my firstborn on this And that’s where the lovely, — will all be made into ridiculously blood-smeared Katniss comes back high-grossing movies. into the fray.

The story is set in a futuristic On the day of the Reaping dystopia called Panem. Located (when contestants are selected

to participate in the Games), Katniss — a hunter from District 12 — hears her younger sister Prim’s name called.

Katniss ain’t having it.

She steps forward and demands to fight in her sister’s place. Katniss is granted her wish and, well, if you’ve read the book you know what happens. If you haven’t, I don’t want to spoil anything for you.

But I will tell you this: when Katniss is on the screen you won’t be able to take your eyes off of her. It’s as simple as that.

I can also tell you that the rest of the cast — which includes the likes of Stanley Tucci, Wes Bentley, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks and Liam Hemworth — is nothing short of excellent.

Oh, and speaking of excellent, that’s exactly what this movie is — the cinematography is mostly superb, the narrative is pulsing and

unstoppable, carrying you along effortlessly as Katniss preps for the Games.

In fact, I suspect that The Hunger Games may very well be one of the big successful stories in film in 2012.

Directed by Gary Ross (Big, Pleasantville), The Hunger Games is a rare creature: a big, eff-off Hollywood action blockbuster that is intelligent and streamlined.

Is it perfect … no. At times the shaky-cam sequences can be a little disorienting, and the ending, hindered by the imminent demands of franchise film production, leaves a lot to be desired, rather than a cliffhanger that still presents the audience with a sense of closure.

But still, any way you want to slice the teen-novel-turned-film pie, The Hunger Games is better than Twilight.

Miles better.

Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Texts

Page 16

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

This Week: Mandatory Sentencing

Last week we asked what you thought about getting rid of mandatory minimum sentencing, and here’s what you had to say.

Next week’s topic: see page 13 — do you think we should abolish

On Topic Criminal must be punished & innocent must not get harrashed. MMS don’t reduce crime,Delayed justice is considered to be no justice.

People with criminal mind hard to change.

Law & order is always first. -Hem Raj

our ties to the Queen and the monarchy? 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!

Mandatory sentences keep judges from locking people up forever for minor crimes, while at the same time ensuring 25 year sentences without parole for murdering monsters.

Mandatory Sentences worked to lock away for life the monster who murdered my grandparent - society

is safer as a result… so all you would-be murderers take note!

25 years!

Punitive prison never rehabilitates people.

It only hardens them indoctrinates them into the criminal life. All of course costing more to the public purse!

Why would you get rid of MMS if someone commits a crime then they should know the’re going to get punished!

Yeah, the US most definately doesn’t have a prison system we

want to be emulating.

It’s overcrowded, and the story of Smickle really shows why MMS is stupid.

Re: Canada should end MMS. The reason that US prisons are full is because guns are more plentiful there.

Off Topic Re: “LSD Could Cure Alcoholics,” Global page, March 16th issue

If LSD Could Cure Alcoholics then what’s going to cure them after when they are addicted to LSD? My brother was addicted

to these hallucinogenic drugs and he isn’t himself now a days and I wouldn’t want to recommend this option to anyone!

Re: “LSD Could Cure Alcoholics,” Global page, March 16th issue

Using acid to cure alcoholism im not sure but i believe the reason im an alcoholic is because of some of the things i saw whilst trippin Weststeel( the company that builds grain bins) located a block east of park street in regina , paint the bins they make with the doors open sometimes! By doing so they damaged 56 goverment workers and neibouring buisnesses vehicles with there spray drift of paint! But denigh it was them! So now all vehicle owners are told that sgi can’t do nothing about it because there is no proof and they denighed it. Now people is this fair?

How can they do anything about it? 1 person out of the 56 actually just bought a new vehicle, 1 month old and damaged! That person is probably Not a happy camper and I don’t think any of them are!

I think regina should build a huge shopping center! Like edmonton has(west ed) or calgary (chinook , and cross iron mills) the prove of saskatchewan has nothin like those 2 citys for shopping and getting brand name and quality stuff. I find myself driving out of our province for good shopping! Let’s build something big and get people thinking the

Texts same about us!

I can’t believe that former hockey coach Graham James only got 2 years in jail for sexually assaulting 2 former players! That’s basically a slap on the wrist considering he’s a repeat offender. It’s way too lenient and isn’t gonna deter other sex predators from doing it.

Page 17

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Someone should throw Queen Lizzie a bloody good Royal Jubilee shagging for dedicated service. A hearty “Thanks Mum!” The honour and duty falls to David Cameron Happy Anniversary to my HB. You are an amazing woman and I love you <3

What is worse ipod in car while driving getting blown byh hooker or txting olr talking while operating a car

My mom suffered from a rare burn reaction called sjs she was in the burn unit for a month to find out more go to www.sjsupport. com Www.sjsupport. org

why are mal’e strippers allowed with females and booze but not female strippers

We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of the dreams.

Shrodinger’s Cat knows String Theory!

Meow!

Let’s GO moose jaw warriors!!!! 1st in the eastern conf and heading into the playoffs strong!

I think it should have been Shroedinger’s Cat sorry for the typo.

When it comes to animals herbivores generally taste better than omnivores or carnivores. I bet Vegans taste better than the rest of us!

Mmm Tasty little Vegans!

Upon beginning university, a student is faced with many challenges. One of those challenges is learning to look both ways before crossing the street. Failure to do so could lead to a dead end.

Try this for fun: go to a parking lot and put sticky notes on people’s cars saying “sorry for the damage.” watching them is priceless..lol

You know you’re DOWNtown when the fixed income elders clean out all the stuff on sale long before you get to it!

Some of you other readers must get the DOWNtown thing by now. Please feel free to add your own! Get DOWNtown mofos!

Thats DOWNtown!

Happy Saint Patty’s!

Eat drink or smoke something green until you turn green!

Verb pg3. 1630 contractors is a scam to avoid paying benefits.SCA promotes this scam. I have 6 journeyman tickets. most in SK.I KNOW THE SCAM Further the trade

labourer is a scam.

Keep them as labes.so they are cornered into working. Labes is how they scam the dumb tradespeople.

I knew the “hippies” who started the Regina

Folk Festival way back.

Most left town a long time ago in search of more progressive society! They’d puke if they knew how moneygrubbing has taken over the Folk Festival! I expect most

of them wouldn’t have bothered had they known!

James gets 2 years?

What the hell!

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

Nightlife

Page 18

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Saturday @ Bonzzini’s Venue

Bonzzini’s Brew Pub on Saturday, March 17th

Location

4634 Albert Street

Music Vibe

Top 40 and old rock

Feature Deals

Half a pound of ribs for $4.99 and Guinness for $7

Popular Drink

Pints of green, in-house Harvest Wheat

Food of Choice

Lager nachos — loaded with all your favourite toppings, and served with salsa and sour cream; add chicken or beef if you want

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

$6.50 for a basket on Tuesdays; of the 17 available flavours, Buffalo, lemon pepper and hot are the favourites

Something New

T he p atio is underg o ing renovations to be ready for summer

Check out all of Verb’s past nightlife photos on our facebook page

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There may be a few minor obstacles to avoid early this week, but once you get around them it’ll be smooth sailing from there on out, dear Pisces. In fact, nearing week’s end it could seem as though you can do no wrong. Ten feet tall and bulletproof, that’s what you’ll be, so take advantage of it. You might have a chance to sell your ideas or a project — everyone wants to hear what you’re saying, no matter what it is. You’ll be in high demand — and for good reason.

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Pisces (Feb 20–Mar 20)

Have you been feeling like you’ve been in a rut as of late? Like you’re not making any worthwhile progress in life?

If so, don’t fret. Things are going to pick up in a big way, dear Virgo, and soon! So be prepared, because it could feel like you’ve gone from 0 to 60 in a second or two. At first the abrupt shift might seem a bit overwhelming, but soon you’ll settle in to the new pace and, when that happens, an unexpected bonus could reveal itself to you.

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Virgo (Aug 23–Sept 22)

You may be your own biggest enemy this week, dear Aquarius. Whether at work or school or home, you may inadvertently be working against yourself and sabotaging your goals and dreams.

If you get this feeling, it’s probably best to get out of your own way. Rebel against your instincts. Consider the direction you are currently heading, take a look around at the landscape, and change course. If you do this, the next little while might become a whole lot easier.

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Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19)

You’ll have an important decision to make this week, dear Leo, so it’s best to approach it as if it were a ramp. On one hand, you could avoid the ramp and keep your feet planted firmly on the ground.

Or you could put your foot on the peddle, build up an ungodly head of speed and hit that incline so hard you go soaring over people’s heads. It’s your choice to play it safe or go all the way. There’s no right answer here, just a whole lot of personal preference.

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Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22)

Ever feel like you’re just beating your head against the wall? No matter how hard you try, it just doesn’t seem to be enough. If you’re at that point, dear Capricorn, there is strength in knowing when to stop fighting. Don’t look at it as giving up — instead, look at it as a wise and logical choice to change directions and avoid the wall all together. Mixing things up could provide you with a powerful and unexpected source of strength, and point you in a new direction.

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Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19)

Don’t turn down invitations this week, dear Cancer. Even if you’re busy and think it would be best if you just stayed in and did some work, think again. Connections, friendships and partnerships are of the utmost importance over the next little while. Through them, some new and exciting opportunities could present themselves to you, so get out there and be social. If you want success, this is the time to go for it — it’s well within your grasp this week.

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Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22)

Reverend Jesse Jackson once poetically quipped, “If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it, I know I can achieve it.” That’s a logical dose of confidence, dear Sagittarius, something you won’t be lacking right now. And speaking of confidence, yours should be sky-high over the next few days, and could let you reach goals you’ve been aiming for. Don’t be afraid to follow your instincts. Go after what you want with gusto, because now is your time.

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Sagittarius (Nov 23–Dec 21)

Have something you’ve been dying to get off your chest? A new idea you’ve been wanting to share with the world?

Well, good news Gemini — this is the week you should do it. Don’t be afraid to say out loud what’s on your mind, it doesn’t do anyone any good keeping it all to yourself — bottling things up can be harmful. As for others, they’re a lot more interested in what you have to say than you may think. So be bold, and positive forces will come to your aid.

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Gemini (May 21–Jun 20)

Sometimes you can get things done with little to no effort at all. This week, whether or not you actively participate, you may very well play a pivotal role in something. What that something is remains unclear, but it may seem that without doing much, your actions will directly influence a person or a situation this week. And the best part (or perhaps the worst): there’s nothing you can do about it. So sit back and watch the world unfold around you, dear Scorpio.

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Scorpio (Oct 24–Nov 22)

You may feel like a whipping post this week, dear Taurus, so be sure to don your armour and brace yourself: the battle might get intense. No matter which way you turn, it could feel as though people are targeting an invisible bullseye on your chest, so try to be careful not to escalate things. What you should probably do is ignore these people — don’t let them get to you and you’ll be rewarded. Remember what Nietzsche once wrote: “that which does not kill us makes us stronger.”

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Taurus (Apr 20–May 20)

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If you need support, you’re going to get it this week — in spades. Heck, even if you don’t need the help people are going to be there for you this week, dear Libra.

If you need a shoulder to lean on, it’ll be there. If you need a helping hand, a loan, a sympathetic ear … no matter what you require, you should get it this week.

Enjoy it — when good things enter our lives we shouldn’t take them for granted.

Appreciate the support you get and be sure to show your thanks.

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Libra (Sept 23–Oct 23)

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Look forward to an up-and-down kind of week, dear Aries — for the most part, your energy might be coming in bursts. One minute you could be lethargic and apathetic, the next you may be buzzing around full of verve and gusto.

So when you’re feeling up, be sure to engage in activities with purpose and tackle projects you’ve been meaning to tackle, and when the energy just isn’t there, don’t worry. Take a seat, relax — the key to this week is to go with the flow.

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Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19)

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Horoscopes

Mar 23–29, ‘12 VerbNews.com 1 9 6 4 5 2 8 7 3

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.

1

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